Explore Taipei: Top Things to Do and See
National Theater and Concert Hall, Taipei
When I first arrived in Taipei, I had no idea what to expect. I had heard plenty of stories about the city, but nothing truly prepared me for how alive it felt. From the moment I stepped out of the airport, the city’s energy hit me all at once—intense, exciting, and contagious.
Taipei is always moving, always changing. You can see it in the crowded night markets, the noisy streets filled with scooters and cars, and the people who always seem to be on the move. One moment, you’re walking between modern skyscrapers; the next, you find yourself in a small alley with a traditional tea house. The mix of sounds, smells, and sights—whether it’s the aroma of street food or the quiet hum of a Buddhist temple—gives Taipei its unique character.
I spent an afternoon sipping Taiwan’s famous bubble tea and later discovered a traditional foot massage that melted away all my tension. There’s always something happening, and no matter where you go, Taipei invites you to explore, get lost, and create unforgettable memories.
Your Easy Guide to Getting to Taipei and Staying Connected
Arriving in Taipei? Getting from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) to the city is quick and easy. If you want a direct journey, booking a transfer service in advance is a great option. It takes about 40 to 50 minutes, depending on traffic, to reach popular spots like Taipei Main Station or Ximending.
If you prefer more flexibility during your trip, renting a car is perfect for exploring at your own pace. For those on a budget, the Airport MRT is a fast and affordable way to get into the heart of Taipei.
The EasyCard is your go-to ticket for Taipei’s public transport. It works on the MRT, buses, and even at convenience stores. Simply tap to pay, and you’re ready to go. You can also recharge it at stations or online.
Once you arrive, staying connected is easy. Consider using an eSIM to activate a local data plan—you can even buy one online before you land.
Start and End Your Taipei Trip in Comfort: Great Flights & VIP Lounge Access
Find the best deals on flights to Taipei by booking your tickets here and securing great prices.
Before heading home, relax in style at The Oriental Premium Lounge, located on the fourth floor of Terminal 2 at Taoyuan International Airport. Enjoy comfortable seating, delicious refreshments, and a peaceful atmosphere to unwind before your flight.
Exploring the Most Famous Parts of Taipei
Wanhua District:
Now, let's take a journey through its most famous parts, starting with Ximending - a vibrant neighbourhood and shopping area in the district - pulsating with pop culture and filled with neon lights, restaurants, and bars. Here, you can get lost in numerous shops or try delicious local street food. Speaking of food, Ximending offers a wealth of local specialties, with one of the most famous being Fuhong Beef Noodles. This local spot is famous for perfectly cooked noodles in aromatic broth, making it a must-visit for all beef noodle enthusiasts. For fans of Taiwanese cuisine, Dong Yi Pork Chop also offers juicy dishes that will delight your senses. Beef Noodle of the King is another essential stop, known for its exceptionally rich and tasty beef noodles served in various styles and flavors, offering you a true delight.
At the Rainbow Six intersection, you'll find a variety of street performers, artists, and vendors, creating an energetic atmosphere ideal for great photos and good vibes.
For those seeking nightlife, Ximending offers diverse options. Sol Bistro is a favorite spot for evening relaxation and socializing. Notable mentions also include Geography Bar and Nonsense Bar as must-visit locations for after-work parties in the pedestrian zone.
Don't forget to visit Lungshan Temple, a historic temple symbolizing religious and cultural importance for the local population. With its beautiful architectural details and peaceful atmosphere, it's a place to relax and enjoy a spiritual experience after the excitement of Ximending.
The best way to explore Taipei’s top sights is to hop on and off at attractive locations—book your bus tickets here!
Simple Kaffa, Taipei City
Datong District:
Ningxia Road Night Market is one of Taiwan's crown jewels of night markets, showcasing the rich essence of the Datong District and a variety of local flavors. Located along the picturesque Ningxia Road, this market is where tradition meets the present. As soon as you step in, you'll be enchanted by the multitude of smells and colors surrounding you. At every turn, you'll find diverse Taiwanese specialties, from aromatic noodle soups to crispy meat delicacies and sweet treats that will satisfy all your senses.
But Ningxia Road Night Market offers much more than food—it's also a place to explore Taiwan's rich cultural heritage. Market stalls offer various souvenirs, traditional handicrafts, and antiques, giving you the opportunity to take home a piece of local culture.
Songshan District:
Raohe Street Night Market is a paradise for food lovers, shoppers, and those interested in local culture, offering an unforgettable experience for all. As you step onto Raohe Street, you'll immediately be surrounded by the aromas of diverse specialties prepared at street stalls. This is where different cuisines and flavors meet, from traditional Taiwanese dishes to a wide array of souvenirs, clothing, jewelry, and other items at affordable prices. Here, you can find authentic Taiwanese souvenirs and gifts for your loved ones, as well as exclusive pieces from local designers. Enjoy interacting with vendors, watching passersby, and soaking in the lively atmosphere while exploring this exciting part of Taipei.
Although Raohe Street Market can be visited at any time of day, its true magic comes alive at night when the streets turn into lively hubs of activity and entertainment. This is the perfect street for an evening stroll, tasting local specialties, and enjoying the unique ambiance that only a night market in Songshan District can provide.
Zhongzheng District:
For those seeking creative inspiration, Taipei offers several oases in the form of creative parks. Huashan 1914 Creative Park, situated in renovated older buildings, hosts art exhibitions, concerts, and workshops. This place is a symbol of creativity and innovation and has become a center for art, design, and performing arts in Taiwan. When you step into the territory of Huashan 1914 Creative Park, you'll immediately feel a pleasant atmosphere and creativity. Old military buildings have been refurbished into art galleries, exhibition spaces, workshops, and stages, creating a space where different forms of art and expression converge.
The park hosts many cultural events throughout the year, including concerts, theatrical performances, film screenings, workshops, and festivals. Visitors have the opportunity to admire various artworks, meet local and international artists, and participate in creative activities that inspire them.
In addition to artistic activities, Huashan 1914 Creative Park also offers a diverse range of cafes, restaurants, shops, and souvenir stores where visitors can leisurely enjoy delicious food and drinks and find unique souvenirs and gifts.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in Taipei - a grand complex with its impressive white pavilions and monumental statue of Chiang Kai-shek - provides visitors with deep insights into Taiwan's political and cultural past. After exploring this iconic monument, strolling through the surrounding parks, especially by the impressive National Theater, offers a perfect opportunity to relax amidst greenery and beautiful gardens.
Shilin District:
The National Palace Museum in Taipei is preserving some of the most valuable works of Chinese art and culture. Situated in a beautiful park overlooking the mountains, this museum is a must-visit for those eager to explore the richness of history and art. The museum houses over 700,000 precious items spanning different periods of Chinese dynasties, including antiquities, porcelain, paintings, calligraphy, jadeite, bronze, and many other artistic creations.
Among the most famous works are the "Jadeite Cabbage" and "Meat-Shaped Stone," which have become symbols of Chinese art and culture. In addition to its impressive collection, the National Palace Museum offers educational exhibitions and interactive workshops, providing not only a journey through time but also a profound spiritual experience.
Experience Taipei's rich history, culture, and science with the Taiwan Museum Combined All-in-One Pass, giving you access to the Main Museum, Paleontology Museum, South Gate Museum, and four museums in the Ministry of Railways Park. Enjoy multiple exhibits with a single ticket!
A Taste of Taiwan: Best Cafes and Teas:
For coffee enthusiasts, a visit to Simple Kaffa is recommended, where you can enjoy the best-prepared coffee in the city. FamilyMart Let’s Café is known for its delicious coffee and refreshing drinks, perfect for enjoying while exploring Taipei. With convenient locations throughout the city, it’s the ideal spot for a quick coffee on the go. Find your nearest FamilyMart Let’s Café and order via their app.
If you prefer tea, don't miss the chance to try Ten Ren's Tea, a famous Taiwanese brand offering a wide selection of high-quality teas. From classic green and black teas to aromatic oolong and pu-erh varieties, this is where you can discover the richness of Taiwanese tea culture.
Da’an District:
After a refreshing drink, it's time for lunch at Yongkang Beef Noodles restaurant, known for its exceptional noodle dishes. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers authentic specialties in Da’an district. But no trip to Taipei is complete without experiencing Din Tai Fung, renowned for its Xiao Long Bao (soup dumplings). Known for its exceptional quality and flavor, this iconic restaurant offers a dining experience you won’t want to miss.
After the meal, Daan Park awaits you - an oasis of greenery and peace in the heart of the city. This beautiful park offers a wide range of green spaces and walking trails, providing an opportunity to relax and enjoy nature while admiring the residential part of the city with views of magnificent buildings and architectural gems that define the soul of this urban area.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
The evening is reserved for Indulge Experimental Bistro - a well-known destination for nightlife enthusiasts, celebrated for its sophisticated atmosphere and rich selection of drinks. Located in the heart of the Da’an district, this bar offers a wide range of creative drinks and high-quality wines. With its elegant interior and relaxed atmosphere, Indulge Bar is the perfect place for chill after a long day of exploration.
Xinyi District:
Taipei 101 Tower is not only a symbol of the city but also a masterpiece of breathtaking architecture. This impressive building, once the tallest in the world, dominates the city skyline and offers unforgettable views from its observation deck. As you make your way up this engineering marvel, you'll feel excitement and awe at the endless city horizon. From Taipei 101 Observatory, you'll enjoy spectacular views of both the old and new parts of the city, the surrounding mountains, and the distant Pacific Ocean. This moment high above Taipei will definitely be one of the highlights of your journey.
After visiting Taipei 101, you can head to the nearby Breeze shopping center, where you'll find a wide selection of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Here, you can enjoy shopping for the latest brands, explore local specialties in restaurants, or simply relax in the laid-back atmosphere of this modern center.
Walking along the modern avenue with famous global brand stores, experience the charms of a cosmopolitan environment, and then head to the W Taipei-YEN Bar or choose CÉ LA VI bar, where you can enjoy an elegant atmosphere, creative cocktails, and spectacular views of the city from above. If you prefer to pamper yourself with a premium culinary experience, dinner at Morton's The Steakhouse will satisfy all your senses. This restaurant offers outstanding steaks, seafood, and other delicacies, with top-notch service and a refined ambiance that will leave you breathless.
Taipei 101, formerly known as the Taipei World Financial Center
Elephant Mountain, also known as Xiangshan, is a favorite destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers in Taipei. This beautiful mountain peak not only offers extraordinary views of the city and surrounding landscapes but also hiking trails that lead to the summit. As you hike up Elephant Mountain, you'll feel the excitement and energy coming from the nature around you. Enjoy a peaceful walk through the green forests as you climb to the top. When you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with spectacular panoramic views of Taipei and the surrounding mountains. This is the perfect place to relax, take photos, and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you.
Taipei is a city that offers not only an exciting urban scene but also an abundance of natural beauty and activities for outdoor enthusiasts. From mountain trails like Elephant Mountain to park walks, this city provides unforgettable experiences for everyone. The thrilling combination of modern architecture, rich culture, and wild landscapes makes Taipei a unique destination that will surely inspire you.
Day Trips from Taipei: Discover Xpark, Yehliu Geopark, Shifen Waterfall, and Shifen Old Street
Sometimes, the best part of a trip is escaping the city for a day. If you’re in Taipei and want to experience something truly fantastic, I highly recommend these day trips. From fascinating rock formations to waterfalls and historic streets filled with tradition, there’s so much to explore just outside the city.
Taiwan’s first eco-themed aquarium, Xpark, is like an urban oasis tucked away in the city. It offers a peaceful escape while providing an educational experience about marine life. You can get up close with penguins, rays, and even sharks—all in beautifully designed exhibits where nature and modern design come together. It's the perfect place for a relaxing yet educational start to the day.
Located just an hour or so from Taipei, Yehliu Geopark feels like stepping into another world. The coastline is dotted with bizarre natural rock formations, and my favorite is the famous "Queen’s Head," which truly resembles a queen’s profile. The views are breathtaking—ocean on one side and unique rock formations on the other.
A short drive from Yehliu takes you to Shifen Waterfall, often called the "Niagara of Taiwan." There are several viewing platforms, each offering a different perspective on this stunning natural wonder. If you love nature and need a moment of tranquility, this is the perfect stop.
Shifen Old Street
No trip to Shifen is complete without a walk down Shifen Old Street. It feels like stepping back in time, with old shops, railway tracks running right through the middle, and the famous sky lantern tradition. You can write your wishes on a lantern and release it into the sky—a fun and meaningful cultural experience. It’s a great place to soak in local traditions while making unforgettable memories in Taiwan.
Shifen Old Street
Stay at the Grand Hotel Taipei
If you're visiting Taipei and looking for a hotel with tradition and elegance, the Grand Hotel Taipei should be at the top of your list. It’s not just a place to stay—it’s an experience. From its traditional Chinese design to its hidden corners, this hotel offers something truly magical. The moment you step in, you can tell the place has been designed with care. The view from the rooms is incredible, with a clear view of Taipei’s skyline. After a day of exploring the city, there’s nothing better than relaxing in a spacious, well-appointed room. The hotel’s restaurants are also fantastic, offering everything from traditional Taiwanese dishes to international favorites.
One of the coolest things about staying here is the West Secret Passage. It’s not something most people know about, but it’s a hidden gem that takes you through a quiet, almost secret corridor of the hotel. This passage was once used to discreetly transport important guests, adding a touch of mystery to the place.