Things To Do
in Taipei
Taipei, the bustling capital city of Taiwan, is renowned for its vibrant street-food scene and the towering Taipei 101 skyscraper, once the world's tallest building. The city beautifully melds modern architecture with traditional Chinese temples, such as the ornate Baoan and the majestic Longshan temples.
Taipei also serves as a gateway to stunning natural wonders, including hot springs and lush hiking trails in the surrounding mountains, showcasing the island's rich cultural and environmental diversity.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Qing" - Please
- "Duibuqi" - Sorry
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1.50
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $35 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Taipei 101. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café and take in panoramic views of the city.
Head to the National Palace Museum to explore its vast collection of Chinese artifacts. Have lunch in the surrounding area, sampling local Taiwanese dishes.
Stroll through the bustling Shilin Night Market. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and try a variety of street foods.
Visit the historic Longshan Temple and immerse yourself in local spirituality. Take a moment to appreciate the intricate architecture and peaceful surroundings.
Explore the charming streets of Ximending, known for its shopping and street art. Grab lunch at a local eatery to taste traditional Taiwanese fare.
Watch a performance at the Taipei Fine Arts Museum. Afterward, enjoy dinner at a nearby restaurant for a taste of contemporary Taiwanese cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage and vibrant traditions.
- Delicious and diverse food scene, known for street food.
- Efficient public transportation system.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and parks.
- Friendly and welcoming locals.
- High humidity and frequent rain, especially in summer.
- Cost of living can be high in certain areas.
- Limited space due to urban density, leading to crowded conditions.
- Air pollution can be an issue in some areas.
- Language barrier; Mandarin is the primary language spoken.
Best Activities in Taipei
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful trails and lush greenery at Yangmingshan National Park or Elephant Mountain for stunning views of Taipei City.
Enjoy a bike ride along the riverside paths of Tamsui River or explore the city on two wheels using Taipei's public bike rental system.
Relax in one of Taipei's many parks such as Daan Forest Park or Youth Park, and enjoy a peaceful picnic surrounded by nature.
Join in with locals for a session of Tai Chi in one of Taipei's parks, such as Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Park.
Tours
Uncover the best of Taipei with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Taipei
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of Taipei from the 89th and 91st floors, along with a glass-bottomed observation deck.
Hiking trail renowned for its stunning views of the Taipei skyline and the iconic Taipei 101 building.
Scenic area known for its diverse landscapes, hot springs, and numerous vantage points for capturing breathtaking photos.
Food in Taipei
Taipei Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A beloved staple, featuring tender beef and flavorful broth with chewy noodles. Try Lin Dong Fang Noodle or Yong Kang Beef Noodle for excellent renditions.
Must-Try!
These delicate soup dumplings are filled with savory broth and juicy pork. Din Tai Fung is a reputable restaurant to savor this iconic dish.
Also known as 'pork belly bun', it consists of braised pork belly stuffed in a steamed bun. The renowned Lan Jia Gua Bao offers a remarkable version.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Taipei better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
One of Taipei's largest and most famous night markets, offering a plethora of street food options like oyster omelets, stinky tofu, and grilled squid.
This bustling market is a paradise for street food enthusiasts, featuring local favorites such as pepper buns, pork pepper buns, and beef noodle soup.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Taipei, it is important to show respect for elders by addressing them with appropriate titles and using polite language. It is also common to let elders speak first and to defer to their opinions in social and business settings.
When visiting temples in Taipei, it is important to dress modestly and behave respectfully. This includes not touching or pointing at religious artifacts and observing quiet and reverent behavior during prayer or meditation.
In Taipei, it is considered polite to wait for the host to commence eating before starting a meal. Chewing with one's mouth closed and using chopsticks appropriately are also important aspects of dining etiquette.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Taipei with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Taipei
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Taipei, Taiwan. It is not expected in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Taipei, Taiwan, cash is widely accepted for transactions. However, credit cards are also commonly used, especially in larger establishments and tourist areas. Some smaller businesses may prefer cash payments.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Taipei.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Taipei as the weather is mild, cherry blossoms are in bloom, and you can enjoy outdoor activities without the intense heat of summer.
Expect hot and humid weather during summer in Taipei. It's a good time to enjoy the beaches and water activities, but be prepared for occasional typhoons.
Autumn brings pleasant weather and beautiful fall foliage. It's a great time for outdoor activities and hiking in the surrounding mountains.
Winters in Taipei are mild and cool, with occasional rainfall. It's a good time to explore the city's indoor attractions and enjoy hot springs in the nearby areas.
Taipei at Night
Hiking in Taipei
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking spot known for its stunning views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline. The trail is relatively short and can be completed in about 30 minutes.
A large national park with numerous hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging. Famous for its hot springs, cherry blossoms, and beautiful landscapes.
Located in New Taipei City, this hike offers breathtaking views of the coastline and unique rock formations resembling teapots. The trail can be steep and requires caution.
A picturesque area along the Xindian River, perfect for leisurely hikes and strolls. It also features a suspension bridge and beautiful views of the surrounding hills.
This trail leads to Shimen Mountain, providing panoramic views of the Tamsui River and surrounding countryside. It's a bit off the beaten path, making it less crowded.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Taipei through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Taipei by plane.
The main international airport serving Taipei and the surrounding region, located about 40 kilometers west of Taipei city center.
The second largest international airport in Taiwan, located approximately 350 kilometers south of Taipei.
An international airport located about 150 kilometers south of Taipei, serving central Taiwan.
An international airport serving the Kinmen Islands, located approximately 200 kilometers from Taipei.
An international airport located on Nangan Island, serving the Matsu Islands, approximately 300 kilometers northwest of Taipei.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnic group in Taipei, comprising about 95% of the population, including various subgroups such as Holo, Hakka, and others.
A small percentage of the population, representing Taiwan's indigenous communities with distinct cultures and languages.
Includes a significant number of workers from Southeast Asian countries such as Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines, contributing to various sectors in Taipei.
A diverse group of foreigners living in Taipei, including professionals, diplomats, and students from various countries.
Refers to those hailing from the various indigenous tribes recognized by the government, contributing to the cultural mosaic of Taipei.
The Soul of Taipei
Discover the essence of Taipei through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is very popular in Taipei, with many local teams and facilities available for both recreational and competitive play.
Baseball has a strong following in Taipei and Taiwan as a whole, with professional leagues and schools promoting the sport.
Soccer attracts a significant number of fans and players in Taipei, offering numerous local clubs and leagues for participation.
Badminton is widely played in Taipei, enjoyed for both leisure and competitive tournaments, with many facilities available.
Table tennis is a favored recreational activity in Taipei, with many tournaments and clubs catering to enthusiasts of all levels.
Tai Chi is practiced by many in Taipei, often in parks, combining physical exercise with aspects of traditional Chinese culture.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Taipei.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Taipei has an increasing number of vegetarian and vegan-friendly eateries, particularly in the Daan District. Notable options include Mianto, About Animals, and Ooh Cha Cha.
While gluten-free options are available in some establishments, it's advisable to communicate your dietary needs clearly when dining out. Health food stores and certain international cuisine restaurants may offer gluten-free selections.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Taipei with these cultural adventures.