Everything you need to see and do while visiting the beautiful, modern, and ancient city of Taipei, Taiwan.
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Taipei is one of Asia’s most underrated travel destinations. It is a city where tradition, innovation, nature, and food culture come together in a way that feels effortless. Whether you’re planning a short city escape or a longer adventure through Taiwan, Taipei offers experiences that appeal to every kind of traveler.
One of the biggest reasons to visit Taipei is the food. The city is famous for its lively night markets, where you can sample everything from soup dumplings and crispy scallion pancakes to bubble tea and Taiwanese fried chicken. Places like Shilin Night Market and Raohe Street Night Market are packed with local flavors and street snacks.
Another reason to love Taipei is how convenient and welcoming it feels. The city has an efficient public transportation system, clean streets, and is extremely safe. Taipei is also more affordable than many major Asian capitals, offering incredible food, accommodations, and attractions without the high price tag.
From ancient temples and modern skyscrapers to sipping bubble tea and bustling night markets, Taipei delivers an unforgettable travel experience that keeps visitors coming back again and again.
Here’s everything you must see during a trip to Taipei, Taiwan:
Taipei 101
Taipei 101 is Taipei’s most iconic skyscraper and a symbol of modern Taiwan. Once the world’s tallest building, it offers breathtaking panoramic views from its observatory, luxury shopping, and a striking design inspired by traditional Asian architecture.
Lungshan Temple
One of Taipei’s most iconic and historic landmarks, Lungshan Temple. It is known for its intricate architecture and peaceful atmosphere. This centuries-old temple offers you a glimpse into Taiwan’s deep spiritual traditions right in the middle of the bustling city.
Bopiliao Historical Block
A beautifully preserved street, Bopiliao Historical Block, is filled with traditional architecture, cultural exhibits, and traces of old Taipei. This historic district is a fun spot for some photos.
Xing Fu Tang
Treat yourself to the famous brown sugar bubble tea at Xing Fu Tang, one of Taipei’s most popular drink spots. Known for its freshly cooked caramelized brown sugar pearls and rich creamy flavor, this iconic Taiwanese tea shop is a must-visit for bubble tea lovers exploring the city.
Taipei Cinema Park
Located in the Ximending area, Taipei Cinema Park is a vibrant urban space known for street art, local performances, and outdoor events.
Dihua Street
One of Taipei’s oldest and most atmospheric streets, Dihua Street is filled with traditional tea shops, herbal medicine stores, local snacks, and beautifully preserved architecture. It’s the perfect place to experience the city’s old-world character.
Dalongdong Baoan Temple
Dalongdong Baoan Temple is a historic temple celebrated for its intricate carvings, colorful details, and traditional Taiwanese architecture. This cultural landmark offers a peaceful escape and a deeper look into Taipei’s rich religious heritage.
Zhinan Temple
Take the gondola up to visit Zhinan Temple, a serene hillside temple surrounded by lush greenery and panoramic views of Taipei.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
One of Taipei’s most famous cultural landmarks, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is surrounded by grand architecture and open public squares. This historic site offers impressive views and peaceful gardens. It’s also gorgeous lit up at night.
Peace Memorial Park
A serene escape in the middle of the city, Pease Memorial Park, with the striking Tsui Hang Pagoda, is a beautiful spot for quiet reflection.
Taipei Tea Promotion Center
Take in panoramic views of Taipei with a ride on the Maokong Gondola to the tea-growing hills of Maokong. At the top, explore the Taipei Tea Promotion Center to learn about Taiwan’s tea culture while enjoying scenic mountain surroundings.
Xiangshan Trail
A 2.2km urban hike up Xiangshan Hiking Trail (Elephant Mountain) leads to the best skyline views of Taipei 101 and the city. This trail has about 200 meters of elevation gain with lots of stairs.
Night Markets
There are many different night markets to choose from in Taipei. A couple of popular ones include Shilin Night Market and Raohe Street Night Market. They are packed with local flavors and street snacks.
Chun Shui Tang
Bubble tea originated in Taiwan, and Chun Shui Tang claims to have invented it. It’s the perfect stop to experience the origin of one of the world’s most beloved drinks.
Getting Around Taipei
The best way to get around Taipei is to use the metro (MRT). It offers a fast, reliable, and remarkably easy way to explore the city. With its color-coded lines, clear English signage, and well-organized stations, it’s especially welcoming for first-time visitors.
Ubers are also available throughout the city as an alternative or to use if you want to visit an area that is further from a metro station.
Photographic Spots to See Taipei 101
Some great spots to take photos of Taipei 101 in the city include:
- National Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall
- Four Four South Village is a former military housing area that now houses cafes and stores.
- Elephant Mountain, Xiangshan Trail (mentioned above)
Day Trip from Taipei
Even if you are not taking a longer adventure through Taiwan, I highly recommend adding a day trip to your vacation. Some great options include:
- Shifen and Jiufen – Jiufen is a hillside town famous for its narrow, lantern-lit alleys and teahouses that inspired the aesthetic of Spirited Away. Shifen is known for the Shifen Waterfall and the tradition of releasing sky lanterns along the railway tracks. We took this tour during our trip and really enjoyed it!
- Yehliu Geopark – This park is world-renowned for its unique mushroom-shaped rock formations, most notably the Queen’s Head.
- Beitou Hot Springs – Easily reached via the MRT Red Line. Beitou is Taipei’s hot spring district, featuring the Thermal Valley and several public baths.
- Yangmingshan National Park – A volcanic mountain range offering numerous hiking trails, blooming flower fields, and steaming sulfur fumaroles at Xiaoyoukeng.
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