The 25 Best Things to Do in Taipei

Taipei, the vibrant capital of Taiwan, is a city that defies easy categorization. At first glance, you might be struck by its modern skyline, dominated by the bamboo-shaped Taipei 101 skyscraper. But look closer, and you'll find layers of history and culture woven into the urban fabric.

As you explore the city, you'll encounter a fascinating blend of the old and the new. In the morning, you might join locals practicing tai chi in a centuries-old temple courtyard. By afternoon, you could be shopping in a sleek mall filled with the latest tech gadgets. And as evening falls, the enticing aromas of street food will lure you to bustling night markets where generations-old recipes are served alongside innovative culinary creations.

Taipei's charm lies in these contrasts. It's a place where you can hop from a tranquil tea house to a karaoke bar, from serene mountain trails to neon-lit streets, all in a single day. The city pulses with an energy that's both exciting and welcoming, inviting you to dive in and experience its many facets. So, get ready to explore – Taipei is waiting to surprise and delight you at every turn.

Ascend Taipei 101 for Stunning City Views

Start your Taipei adventure with a trip to the top of this iconic skyscraper. As you zoom up to the 89th floor in one of the world's fastest elevators, your ears might pop, but the panoramic views will be worth it. From the indoor and outdoor observation decks, you'll get a bird's-eye view of Taipei sprawling out in all directions, with mountains framing the horizon. On a clear day, you can see all the way to the ocean.

Key Information:

• Location: No. 7, Section 5, Xinyi Road, Xinyi District, Taipei City
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
• Admission: NT$600 for adults (about US$20)

Why Visit: The views from Taipei 101 offer an unparalleled perspective of the city's layout and scale.

Insider Tip: Visit just before sunset to see the city transform from day to night. Stay for the evening light show when the building itself becomes a colorful beacon in the skyline.

Explore the National Palace Museum

Housing the world's largest collection of Chinese art and artifacts, the National Palace Museum is a treasure trove of history. You'll find yourself face-to-face with priceless jade carvings, intricate bronze vessels, and delicate porcelain masterpieces. The famous Jadeite Cabbage, a piece of jade carved to look like a head of Chinese cabbage, is a must-see. As you wander through the vast galleries, you're not just viewing art – you're taking a journey through 8,000 years of Chinese history.

Key Information:

• Location: No. 221, Section 2, Zhishan Road, Shilin District, Taipei City
• Hours: 8:30 AM - 6:30 PM (open until 9:00 PM on Fridays and Saturdays)
• Admission: NT$350 for adults (about US$11.50)

Why Visit: It's a chance to see some of the most important Chinese art and historical artifacts in the world.

Insider Tip: The museum is huge, so consider joining a guided tour to hit the highlights if you're short on time. Don't miss the basement level where they often have special exhibitions.

Soak in Beitou Hot Springs

After a day of sightseeing, there's nothing quite like relaxing in the soothing waters of Beitou Hot Springs. This area, known for its sulfuric hot springs, has been a popular retreat since the Japanese colonial era. You can choose from public baths or private resort experiences. As you soak, let the mineral-rich waters work their magic on your tired muscles. The surrounding area, with its lush vegetation and steaming fumaroles, feels like a world away from the bustling city center.

Key Information:

• Location: Beitou District, Taipei City
• Hours: Vary by facility, but many are open from early morning until late night
• Admission: Prices vary, but public baths start from about NT$40 (US$1.30)

Why Visit: It's a relaxing natural experience right in the city, offering a glimpse into Taiwan's geothermal activity.

Insider Tip: Visit the Beitou Hot Spring Museum first to learn about the area's history. Then, try Millennium Hot Spring for an affordable public bathing experience.

Feast at Shilin Night Market

When the sun goes down, Taipei's night markets come alive, and Shilin is the granddaddy of them all. Follow your nose through a maze of alleys packed with food stalls serving up Taiwanese street food classics. Brave the stinky tofu if you dare, or play it safe with oyster omelets, bubble tea, and crispy chicken cutlets the size of your face. Between bites, try your hand at carnival games or browse the stalls selling clothes, accessories, and knick-knacks. The energy is infectious, and you'll find yourself swept up in the lively atmosphere.

Key Information:

• Location: No. 101, Jihe Road, Shilin District, Taipei City
• Hours: 4:00 PM - 12:00 AM daily (some stalls open later)
• Admission: Free (pay for what you eat)

Why Visit: It's the quintessential Taipei night market experience, offering a smorgasbord of local flavors and culture.

Insider Tip: Come hungry and be prepared to queue for popular stalls – it's part of the experience! Look for stalls with the longest lines; they're usually worth the wait.

Visit Longshan Temple

Step into a world of incense smoke and whispered prayers at Longshan Temple, one of Taipei's oldest and most important religious sites. Built in 1738, this ornate temple has survived earthquakes, fires, and even American bombing during World War II. As you walk through the intricately carved archways, you'll see worshippers lighting incense, making offerings, and consulting fortune-telling sticks. The temple is dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, but you'll also find Taoist and folk deities here, reflecting Taiwan's diverse religious landscape.

Key Information:

• Location: No. 211, Guangzhou Street, Wanhua District, Taipei City
• Hours: 6:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It's a living example of Taiwan's religious traditions and a stunning piece of architecture.

Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to see elderly locals practicing tai chi in the courtyard, or come at dusk when the temple is beautifully lit.

Hike Elephant Mountain for City Views

For the best views of Taipei's skyline (including Taipei 101), lace up your hiking boots and tackle Elephant Mountain. The trail is steep and can be a bit of a workout, especially in Taipei's humidity, but the panoramic views from the top are worth every drop of sweat. As you climb, you'll pass through lush forests before emerging at various lookout points. Time your hike for sunset, and you'll be rewarded with a spectacular light show as the city below transitions from day to night.

Key Information:

• Location: Alley 342, Section 5, Xinyi Road, Xinyi District, Taipei City
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It offers the most Instagram-worthy views of Taipei's skyline, especially at sunset.

Insider Tip: Bring water and wear good shoes – the steps can be slippery. There are several viewing platforms, so keep climbing if the first one is crowded.

Explore Taipei's Creative Parks

Taipei's creative parks are a testament to the city's innovative spirit. These former industrial spaces have been transformed into hubs of art, design, and culture. Huashan 1914 Creative Park, once a wine factory, now hosts art exhibitions, live performances, and quirky boutiques. As you wander through the park, you might stumble upon an impromptu concert, a craft fair, or a pop-up restaurant. It's a place where Taipei's creative energy is on full display, and you never know what you might discover around the next corner.

Key Information:

• Location: No. 1, Section 1, Bade Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City (Huashan 1914 Creative Park)
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM daily
• Admission: Free (some exhibitions may charge)

Why Visit: It's a showcase of Taipei's vibrant arts scene and creative repurposing of urban spaces.

Insider Tip: Check the park's event calendar before your visit – there's often something special happening, from food festivals to outdoor movie screenings.

Ride the Maokong Gondola

Escape the urban hustle with a scenic ride on the Maokong Gondola. As you glide over lush green hills, you'll feel the city melt away. The gondola takes you up to Maokong, an area famous for its tea plantations. At the top, you can hike through tea fields, visit a traditional tea house, or simply enjoy the view of Taipei spread out in the valley below. For an extra thrill, opt for a glass-bottom cabin – if you dare to look down!

Key Information:

• Location: No. 8, Section 2, Xinguang Road, Wenshan District, Taipei City (Taipei Zoo Station)
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM Tuesday to Thursday; 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM Friday to Sunday; Closed Mondays
• Admission: NT$120 one-way for adults (about US$4)

Why Visit: It offers a unique perspective of Taipei's geography and a chance to experience Taiwan's tea culture.

Insider Tip: Go on a clear day for the best views. The last car up can get crowded, so plan to go earlier in the day if possible.

Shop and Eat at Ximending

Welcome to Taipei's answer to Tokyo's Harajuku or Seoul's Myeongdong. Ximending is a pedestrian shopping haven that captures the pulse of Taipei's youth culture. Here, you'll find everything from trendy fashion boutiques and kawaii gift shops to street performers and themed cafes. The area comes alive at night with neon lights and bustling crowds. Don't miss the chance to try some of Taipei's famous street food here – the pepper buns and bubble tea are particularly good.

Key Information:

• Location: Wanhua District, Taipei City
• Hours: Most shops open from 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM
• Admission: Free (pay for what you buy)

Why Visit: It's the best place to experience Taipei's youth culture and indulge in some retail therapy.

Insider Tip: Look out for the Red House, a historic octagonal building that now houses a theater and LGBTQ+ friendly bars and shops.

Learn at the National Taiwan Museum

For a deep dive into Taiwan's natural and cultural history, head to the National Taiwan Museum. Housed in a beautiful Baroque-style building dating back to 1915, it's Taiwan's oldest museum. The exhibits cover everything from Taiwan's indigenous peoples to its unique geological formations. You'll see fascinating artifacts, lifelike dioramas, and even a few dinosaur skeletons. It's a great place to get context for all the sights you'll see around Taipei and Taiwan.

Key Information:

• Location: No. 2, Xiangyang Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
• Hours: 9:30 AM - 5:00 PM Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays)
• Admission: NT$30 for adults (about US$1)

Why Visit: It provides a comprehensive overview of Taiwan's history and natural wonders in a historic setting.

Insider Tip: Don't miss the Land Bank Exhibition Hall, a branch of the museum located in a beautiful old bank building nearby.

Relax in Da'an Forest Park

Often called "Taipei's Central Park," Da'an Forest Park offers a green oasis in the heart of the city. Spanning 26 hectares, it's a favorite spot for locals to exercise, picnic, or simply escape the urban buzz. You'll find jogging paths, a large pond teeming with turtles, and even an amphitheater that hosts free performances. On weekends, you might catch a group practicing tai chi or see families flying kites. It's a perfect place to take a break from sightseeing and enjoy a moment of tranquility.

Key Information:

• Location: No. 1, Section 2, Xinsheng South Road, Da'an District, Taipei City
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It offers a slice of nature in the city center and a chance to see how locals spend their leisure time.

Insider Tip: Bring a picnic and find a spot under the trees. The park is especially beautiful in spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.

Experience Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

This imposing monument, dedicated to former Republic of China President Chiang Kai-shek, is as controversial as it is impressive. The stark white walls and blue-tiled octagonal roof create a striking silhouette against the sky. Climb the 89 steps (representing Chiang's age at death) to see the large bronze statue of Chiang and learn about his role in Taiwan's history. The changing of the guard ceremony, performed hourly, is a precisely choreographed spectacle not to be missed.

Key Information:

• Location: No. 21, Zhongshan South Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It's a significant piece of Taiwan's political history and offers insight into the country's complex relationship with its past.

Insider Tip: Visit early in the morning to see locals practicing martial arts or dance in the plaza. The gardens around the hall are also beautiful for a stroll.

Browse Taipei Fish Market

For a uniquely Taipei experience, head to the Taipei Fish Market, also known as Addiction Aquatic Development. This isn't your typical fish market – it's a sleek, modern space where you can find everything from sushi and seafood barbecue to a gourmet grocery store. Watch skilled chefs prepare fresh sashimi, pick out live seafood to be cooked on the spot, or enjoy a meal at one of the standing bars. The variety and quality of seafood on offer is staggering, and the bustling atmosphere is all part of the fun.

Key Information:

• Location: No. 18, Alley 2, Lane 410, Minzu East Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City
• Hours: 6:00 AM - 12:00 AM daily
• Admission: Free (pay for what you eat)

Why Visit: It offers a modern take on the traditional fish market experience and some of the freshest seafood in Taipei.

Insider Tip: Come hungry and be prepared to wait for a spot at the popular standing sushi bar.

Wander Through Dihua Street

Step back in time on Dihua Street, one of Taipei's oldest and most charming thoroughfares. This historic street in the Dadaocheng area is lined with well-preserved shophouses dating back to the late 19th century. As you stroll down the narrow lanes, you'll find traditional Chinese medicine shops, tea merchants, and fabric stores alongside hip cafes and art galleries. The street really comes alive in the weeks leading up to Chinese New Year when it transforms into a bustling market selling holiday treats and decorations.

Key Information:

• Location: Dihua Street, Datong District, Taipei City
• Hours: Most shops open 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM (closed on Mondays)
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It offers a glimpse into Taipei's past and a chance to shop for unique local products.

Insider Tip: Visit the nearby Xiahai City God Temple for a dose of local religious culture, and keep an eye out for hidden cafes in the old buildings.

Discover Taipei's Speakeasy Bars

Taipei's nightlife scene has a secret: a growing number of speakeasy-style bars hidden behind unmarked doors or within other businesses. These bars offer creative cocktails in intimate, often theatrically designed spaces. You might find yourself entering through a secret bookshelf, or sipping a drink in a bar designed like an apothecary. The hunt for these hidden gems is half the fun, and once inside, you'll be rewarded with unique drinks and a cozy atmosphere.

Key Information:

• Location: Various locations around Taipei
• Hours: Usually open from evening until late night
• Admission: Free entry, but drinks can be pricey

Why Visit: It's a fun way to experience Taipei's sophisticated cocktail culture and meet locals.

Insider Tip: Do some research beforehand to find these hidden spots. Some popular ones include Ounce and Draft Land.

Visit the Taipei Astronomical Museum

For a stellar experience, head to the Taipei Astronomical Museum. This cosmic wonderland features exhibits on everything from the Big Bang to space exploration. The highlight is the 35-meter dome planetarium, where you can lean back and watch the universe unfold above you. On clear nights, the observatory is open for stargazing through powerful telescopes. It's a great activity for families or anyone with a sense of wonder about the cosmos.

Key Information:

• Location: No. 363, Jihe Road, Shilin District, Taipei City
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Tuesday to Sunday (open until 8:00 PM on Saturdays)
• Admission: NT$40 for adults (about US$1.30)

Why Visit: It offers a fascinating journey through space and time, right in the heart of Taipei.

Insider Tip: Check the schedule for special shows in the planetarium, which are often in English as well as Chinese.

Explore Yangmingshan National Park

Just a short trip from downtown Taipei, Yangmingshan National Park feels worlds away from the urban bustle. This volcanic landscape offers hiking trails, hot springs, and spectacular scenery. In spring, the hills are covered with blooming cherry blossoms and azaleas. You can hike to the top of Mount Qixing, Taiwan's tallest dormant volcano, for panoramic views of Taipei and the surrounding mountains. The park is also home to Taiwan's only native cattle, the Taiwan water buffalo.

Key Information:

• Location: No. 1-20, Zhuzihu Road, Yangmingshan, Beitou District, Taipei City
• Hours: Open 24/7
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It offers a natural escape from the city with diverse landscapes and outdoor activities.

Insider Tip: Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds, and bring layers as it can be cooler in the mountains.

Shop at Raohe Street Night Market

While Shilin might be the most famous, Raohe Street Night Market offers a more condensed and arguably more authentic night market experience. This single 600-meter street is packed with food stalls, game booths, and vendors selling everything from clothes to electronics. Don't miss the pepper buns at the entrance – crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and full of flavor. As you make your way down the street, you'll encounter a mouthwatering array of Taiwanese street food classics.

Key Information:

• Location: Raohe Street, Songshan District, Taipei City
• Hours: 5:00 PM - 12:00 AM daily
• Admission: Free (pay for what you eat or buy)

Why Visit: It offers a more compact night market experience with some of Taipei's best street food.

Insider Tip: Visit the nearby Ciyou Temple before your night market adventure for a dose of local culture.

Relax at a Traditional Teahouse

Tea is an integral part of Taiwanese culture, and there's no better place to experience it than at a traditional teahouse. Many teahouses in Taipei offer a full tea ceremony, where you can learn about different types of tea and the proper way to prepare and enjoy them. As you sip your tea, you'll gain a deeper appreciation for this important aspect of Taiwanese culture. Some teahouses also offer beautiful views of the city or surrounding nature.

Key Information:

• Location: Various locations around Taipei (Maokong area is famous for teahouses)
• Hours: Vary by location, but many are open from morning until late evening
• Admission: Prices vary, but expect to pay around NT$300-500 (US$10-16) per person for a tea set

Why Visit: It's a relaxing way to experience an important part of Taiwanese culture.

Insider Tip: Try Wistaria Tea House, a historic location known for its role in Taiwan's democracy movement.

Visit the Miniatures Museum of Taiwan

For something completely different, check out the Miniatures Museum of Taiwan. This quirky museum houses an impressive collection of miniature art, including incredibly detailed doll houses, tiny replicas of famous buildings, and miniature scenes from everyday life. The level of craftsmanship is astounding – you'll find yourself marveling at the tiny books with readable pages and functional miniature musical instruments. It's a whimsical experience that will bring out the child in everyone.

Key Information:

• Location: 4F, No. 96, Section 1, Jianguo North Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City
• Hours: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays)
• Admission: NT$180 for adults (about US$6)

Why Visit: It offers a unique and enchanting look at the world in miniature.

Insider Tip: Bring a magnifying glass to fully appreciate the incredible details in each piece.

Explore Bopiliao Historical Block

For a trip back to 19th-century Taiwan, visit the Bopiliao Historical Block. This well-preserved area features traditional Taiwanese architecture from the Qing Dynasty. As you walk through the narrow alleys and restored buildings, you'll get a sense of what life was like in old Taipei. The block now houses various cultural exhibitions and art installations, blending historical preservation with contemporary creativity.

Key Information:

• Location: No. 101, Guangzhou Street, Wanhua District, Taipei City
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays)
• Admission: Free

Why Visit: It offers a well-preserved glimpse into Taipei's past and beautiful examples of traditional architecture.

Insider Tip: Combine this visit with a trip to nearby Longshan Temple and Huaxi Street Night Market for a full day of exploring Wanhua District.

Take a Cooking Class

What better way to remember your trip to Taipei than by learning to recreate some of its delicious cuisine? Several cooking schools in the city offer classes where you can learn to make Taiwanese favorites like beef noodle soup, bubble tea, or xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). Most classes include a market tour where you'll learn about local ingredients before getting hands-on in the kitchen. At the end, you'll get to enjoy the fruits of your labor – and take home some new culinary skills.

Key Information:

• Location: Various locations around Taipei
• Hours: Classes usually last 3-4 hours and are offered at various times
• Admission: Prices vary, but expect to pay around NT$1500-2500 (US$50-80) per person

Why Visit: It's a fun, interactive way to learn about Taiwanese cuisine and culture.

Insider Tip: Look for classes that include a market tour for a more comprehensive experience.

Visit the National Center for Traditional Arts

While technically located in Yilan County, about an hour from Taipei, the National Center for Traditional Arts is worth the trip for those interested in Taiwanese culture. This sprawling complex is designed to look like a traditional Taiwanese town, complete with a waterway running through it. Here, you can watch artisans practice traditional crafts, enjoy Taiwanese opera performances, and try your hand at activities like paper cutting or dough figurine making. It's a great place to experience the depth and diversity of Taiwanese traditional arts.

Key Information:

• Location: No. 201, Section 2, Wubin Road, Wujie Township, Yilan County
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily (some areas open until 8:00 PM)
• Admission: NT$150 for adults (about US$5)

Why Visit: It offers a comprehensive look at Taiwan's traditional arts and crafts in a beautifully designed setting.

Insider Tip: Check the performance schedule before your visit to catch some traditional Taiwanese music or theater.

Structuring Your Taipei Trip for a 3-Day Itinerary

Now that we've explored some of Taipei's top attractions, let's put it all together into a suggested 3-day itinerary. This plan balances must-see sights with more off-the-beaten-path experiences, giving you a taste of everything Taipei has to offer.

Day 1: City Highlights

• Morning: Start your day early at Longshan Temple to see locals starting their day with prayers. Then, head to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall for the changing of the guard ceremony.
• Afternoon: Take the MRT to Taipei 101 for lunch at the food court and a trip to the observation deck. Afterward, hike Elephant Mountain for sunset views of the city.
• Evening: End your day at Raohe Street Night Market for dinner and people-watching.

Day 2: Culture and Nature

• Morning: Visit the National Palace Museum to see its vast collection of Chinese art and artifacts.
• Afternoon: Take a trip to Yangmingshan National Park for a hike and to enjoy the natural scenery.
• Evening: Return to the city and relax in the hot springs of Beitou. Have dinner at one of the local restaurants in the area.

Day 3: Local Experiences

• Morning: Start with a walk through Da'an Forest Park, then explore the nearby boutiques and cafes of Yongkang Street.
• Afternoon: Take a cooking class to learn how to make some Taiwanese specialties.
• Evening: End your trip with a visit to one of Taipei's speakeasy bars for a taste of the city's nightlife.

Remember, this is just a suggested itinerary. Taipei is a city that rewards exploration, so don't be afraid to wander off the beaten path. You never know what hidden gems you might discover!

Final Thoughts on Exploring Taipei

As you plan your adventure in Taipei, keep in mind that this vibrant city has much more to offer than what can be covered in a single trip or article. Every neighborhood has its own character, every alley might hide a culinary gem, and every interaction with locals can lead to unexpected discoveries.

Don't be afraid to venture beyond the main tourist areas. Hop on the efficient MRT system and explore some of the outer districts. You might find yourself in a local park watching elderly folks practice tai chi, or stumbling upon a tiny temple tucked between modern buildings. These unplanned moments often become the most memorable parts of a trip.

Taipei's charm lies in its blend of the ancient and the modern, the natural and the man-made. From the tranquility of its mountain trails to the excitement of its night markets, from the solemnity of its temples to the innovation of its tech scene, Taipei offers a multi-faceted experience that caters to all interests.

Remember to take time to engage with the local culture. Try speaking a few words of Mandarin (even a simple "xie xie" for "thank you" goes a long way), sample unfamiliar foods, and don't hesitate to ask locals for recommendations. Taiwanese people are known for their friendliness and hospitality, and many are eager to share their culture with visitors.

Lastly, be flexible in your plans. Taipei's subtropical climate means sudden rain showers are common, especially in summer. But don't let a little rain dampen your spirits – it's the perfect excuse to duck into a cozy teahouse or explore one of the city's many museums.

Whether you're slurping noodles at a night market, marveling at ancient artifacts in a world-class museum, soaking in mountain hot springs, or enjoying panoramic city views, Taipei promises an unforgettable journey. So pack your sense of adventure, bring your appetite, and get ready to fall in love with this captivating city. Your Taipei adventure awaits!