Top Things to Do in Taipei: Best Activities & Must-Sees
Taipei is a city that often surprises visitors. It mixes quiet temple streets, lively modern districts, and a relaxed yet energetic atmosphere. This guide will help you discover the best places to visit, from famous landmarks to cultural spots, and give you a simple idea of how to enjoy the city without rushing.
🎫 Popular Activities in Taipei at the Best Prices
- 🏛️ Taipei Palace Museum, from £3.60 – One of the world's finest collections of Chinese art and ancient treasures.
- 🌆 Taipei 101 Observatory, from £14.39 – Go up one of the tallest buildings in the world for wide city views.
- 🚡 Maokong Gondola, from £7.20 – A scenic cable car ride over tea hills and forested mountains.
- 🏞️ Yehliu Geopark, from £2.88 – Explore strange rock formations shaped by sea and wind.
- 🐼 Taipei Zoo, from £2.40 – A large, family-friendly zoo with pandas and many Asian animals.
✈️ What to Do in Taipei Based on Your Stay
Planning a trip to Taipei is easier than it looks, but it's a good idea to be clear about how long you'll stay because, you'll see, the city changes a lot depending on the pace you set. It's not the same having just one day to hit the highlights as having almost a week to lose yourself among temples, markets and neighbourhoods brimming with charm.
To give you a quick idea, we show you at a glance what to do in Taipei in 1 day, in 2 days, in 3 days, or even what to do in Taipei in 4 days and 5 days, depending on your travel plans.
Length of Stay | Couple ❤️ | Family 👨👩👧👦 | Friends 👫 | Solo 🚶♂️ |
1 day | Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a stroll through Ximending, and the Taipei 101 observation deck at sunset | Taipei Zoo + Maokong Gondola, snack at a night market | Ximending, Huashan 1914 Creative Park and Taipei 101 | A quick visit to the National Palace Museum and a stroll along Dihua Street |
2–3 days | Longshan Temple, Beitou Hot Springs and Ningxia Night Market | Tamsui Aquarium, Da'an Forest Park and Taipei Children's Amusement Park | Route through Zhongshan, Elephant Mountain and a night at Raohe Night Market | Elephant Mountain Trail, Taipei Fine Arts Museum and a getaway to Tamsui |
4–5 days | Day trip to Jiufen and Shifen, afternoon in Songshan and dinner on Yongkang Street | Full day at Yehliu Geopark, the Taipei Astronomical Museum and covered markets | A visit to Keelung, bars in Zhongxiao Dunhua, and an afternoon in Beitou | A tour of Yangmingshan, the temples of Wanhua and the cafés of Shida |
1 week | More temples, more neighbourhoods, and time to revisit favourite markets | Cultural activities + leisurely days in parks | Urban routes through lesser-known neighbourhoods and the odd extra escape | Days off to lose yourself in Neihu, museums or urban trails |
If you've got a few extra days, you can keep exploring lesser-known neighbourhoods, hidden temples, and a good handful of easy day trips from Taipei, which are always a brilliant way to round off your trip without rushing.
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Top Attractions & Tours in Taipei
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🏙️ Must-Visit Districts in Taipei
One of the most fun things about Taipei is that every neighbourhood has its own vibe. You can go from futuristic avenues to quiet alleyways in a matter of minutes, and that blend of modernity, pop culture and tradition is, in the end, what leaves the city etched in your memory.
Here are five areas that sum up the essence of the capital beautifully:
Xinyi: The modern, after-dark heart of Taipei
Taipei's Xinyi District is the place where the city reaches for the sky. Here, Taipei 101 dominates. It's not only a spectacular skyscraper, but also a good starting point to get your bearings.
Going up to the observation deck is one of the best experiences at Taipei 101, especially if you catch a clear sunset.
The area is packed with shopping centres, lively terraces and bars where you can enjoy a drink with views. Plus, it's one of the best neighbourhoods for those who want to get around quickly and have everything within easy reach.
Ximending: The most vibrant and youthful district
Taipei's Ximending district is pure energy. Here, everything revolves around pop culture: fashion boutiques, small galleries, neon lights everywhere, and a youthful vibe that wraps you up before you even realise it.
The square in front of the Red House is a well-known spot in Taipei's LGBTQ+ district, and it's usually buzzing with life at virtually any hour.
If you're into wandering the streets with no set plan, sampling street food and soaking up the city's most creative side, this is the place for you.
Da'an: Gastronomy, cafés and a modern vibe
Da'an District in Taipei is a delightful blend of parks, cafés and restaurants that look like they've been lifted straight from the pages of travel magazines.
The Yongkang Street area is a magnet for those who love trying local dishes without ending up in touristy spots, and also for anyone seeking charming cafés to switch off for a while. Overall, it's a quiet neighbourhood, but with enough buzz to keep things interesting.
If you're wondering what to do in Da'an District, Taipei, just let yourself drift along its streets and pop into wherever your curiosity takes you.
Zhongshan: The hipster and chic district
The Zhongshan District in Taipei is one of those places that quietly wins you over. It's a well-kept area, full of independent shops, art studios, beautifully designed cafés and bars with that understated charm that makes you want to linger.
The charm here lies in discovering places bit by bit, because you almost always find something interesting around every corner.
If you're not sure what to do in Zhongshan, Taipei, a café-and-shop-hopping route could be the perfect plan for a leisurely afternoon.
Beitou: Hot springs, culture and relaxation
Taipei's Beitou district is the perfect escape for a complete change of scene. Here, the hot springs take centre stage, with traditional spas where you can while away a blissful few hours, and museums that tell the story of these geothermal springs.
If you've got a bit of time, Thermal Valley is one of those places that impress with steam rising from the water and the smell of sulphur which, curiously, is part of its charm.
For those wondering what to do in Beitou, Taipei, the answer is usually the same... Relax and enjoy the neighbourhood's unhurried pace, which is always welcome after so much city life.
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Taipei Hotel Picks
5 star
5702 Reviews
Ximenting Commercial Area Taipei|4.53km from city centre
As a 5-star hotel, I don't think they should be promoting self check-in kiosks. A 5-star hotel should provide the expected service, not tell me to use a self check-in machine – I might as well book a 3-star hotel then. And if the self check-in machine wasn't bad enough, it even had problems. Check-in was supposed to start at 3 PM, but when I arrived at 4 PM, it said my room wasn't ready yet? Then I had to go back to the front desk to sort it out. If the machines are so unreliable, why not just let guests check in at the front desk?
Furthermore, before checking in, I specifically requested a high floor, and the hotel even replied that for my room type, the highest floor available was the 29th, which shows they saw my note. Yet, upon check-in, I was assigned the lowest available floor, the 12th. I had to request a change again to get moved to the 18th floor – it's just speechless.
And to top it off, I can overlook the lack of toothbrushes and toothpaste, but shouldn't a room at least come with two bottles of mineral water as standard? I know there's a water dispenser on every floor, but I'm a tourist. Do you expect me to carry a bottle around everywhere? There's a limit to how 'eco-friendly' one can be.FromJPY 9,196
Good1216 Reviews
Ximenting Commercial Area Taipei|3.74km from city centre
The hotel staff were all very welcoming. Ximending is nearby, and the breakfast selection is great. There are two MRT stations very close by, making it super convenient to get around. Across the street there's a Starbucks and a McDonald's, and on the street behind, there are local eateries.FromJPY 16,098
Very Good4814 Reviews
Shilin Night Market Taipei|4.49km from city centre
It is one of the iconic hotels in Taipei with magnificent structure and views. However on the day of our check in, there was a kindergarteners graduation party. With 100+ children running and screaming in the lobby area makes me feel like I am in a fish market not an upscale hotel. If the Libby manager or Conceirge can step in to control the crowd, it would have been a better experience for me . The buffet restaurant has extensive selection of food and they all tasted great.
The musicians at the lobby performed well during my stay and it wasa pleasure sitting in the lobby to enjoy the music.
The secret pathways are pleasant surprises. But the tours are not for people with walking issues since participants needs to walk down 70+ steps to get a full view of the secret pathways.
I highly recommend staying here.FromJPY 13,049
2862 Reviews
Taipei Railway Station Taipei|2.79km from city centre
Great service and location, but an absolute nightmare of a stay
Rating: 1/5
I booked this hotel for a one-night trip to Taipei for a concert—just me, alone, excited to see my idol. Unfortunately, the stay itself was a total nightmare.
Let me start with the positives: the service is excellent—knowledgeable, quick, and polite. The location is also perfect, with a direct path from the Taipei MRT station to the hotel, and you can reach Taoyuan Airport in under an hour. There's even a water machine in the corridor, which was handy for getting hot water.
But that's where the good ends. The hotel is shockingly old—worse than any dilapidated hotel in Hong Kong at a third of the price. For what I paid, I did not expect this level of neglect.
I couldn't book a single or double room, so they gave me a room with three beds. I lay down on the first bed furthest from the window and soon felt itchy—I suspect bed lice. The other two beds near the window seemed fine, but that's already unacceptable. And the blankets were so thin I felt completely insecure—like there was nothing protecting me.
The bathroom was a disaster. Hair on the wall, a small dark spot in the bathtub, and no hairdryer. The toilet barely flushed—I had to press the button multiple times, and the toilet paper just wouldn't go away. As for the shower—I've never seen anything like this in 40 years of traveling. Not even in mainland China hotels I visited as a kid with my grandparents. The knob was super loose and barely functional. Turning it to the hot water side did nothing—no water came out. Slightly turning the other way (still on the red hot side) gave only cold water. I could not get hot water at all. At breakfast, I overheard Japanese ladies complaining about the exact same issue. Unbelievable.
There were also zero amenities. They hide behind ”eco-friendly,” but in Japan, you can still ask for supplies. Here, I didn't even have tissue paper in the room—I had to go back to the toilet to get toilet paper.
I couldn't take a proper shower. I feel so dirty and uncomfortable. Truly a nightmare. I would never recommend this place to anyone.FromJPY 10,354
Very Good648 Reviews
Taipei Railway Station Taipei|2.23km from city centre
We recently stayed at the Dinosaur Kingdom Family Room and transferred to a Premier Twin Room the following day. Overall, we had a wonderful stay. The staff were consistently kind, helpful, and accommodating, which we truly appreciated.
We especially enjoyed the family room—it was thoughtfully designed and perfect for traveling with a young child. I had initially planned for a two-night stay in this room, but unfortunately, renovations were scheduled to begin the following day. This was a bit disappointing, as it made our time there feel quite short, especially with other activities already planned during our trip.
In comparison to other five-star hotels we’ve stayed in, I did find the lack of flexibility with early check-in a bit surprising, particularly for the themed room. We had hoped to settle in earlier, and similarly, the following day’s transfer to the Premier room was not available early as it was fully booked. While this was different from what I’m used to, I do understand that this may be part of their standard protocol.
On a positive note, we loved the buffet, and the rooms were very comfortable. The complimentary drinks were a nice touch, and the playroom area was excellent—clearly designed with families in mind. It was also lovely to see the hotel organizing activities for children. During our stay, there was a special event (like a children’s appreciation day?), where me and my baby were able to participate in arts and crafts and even received small prizes, which made the experience extra memorable.
The swimming pool was decent, though not very large, and the water was quite cold, so we ended up enjoying the bathtub instead.
One area for improvement would be cleanliness. We noticed visible dust in the room, which was concerning—especially since the room is designed for small children, and for someone like me who is diagnosed with allergies to multiple types of dust mites. I did raise this with Lara at the lobby, who kindly apologized and mentioned she would inform housekeeping. However, upon transferring rooms the next day, I still noticed dust in certain areas, which made me question the thoroughness of the cleaning.
Separately, I also observed that some toiletries (such as conditioner and lotion) were nearly empty upon arrival, suggesting they may not have been checked or replenished prior to our stay.
Despite these points, we genuinely had a pleasant experience overall and would consider returning. I’m also excited and curious to see what the next theme for the family rooms will be after the renovations.FromJPY 35,695
1044 Reviews
Taipei Railway Station Taipei|2.61km from city centre
Great location! There's a private exit directly to the hotel, so no worries about getting wet on rainy days. The hotel also allowed an early check-in, which was a nice bonus. They offer free afternoon tea and complimentary drinks. Breakfast was excellent. I'll definitely come back again.FromJPY 11,701
Business travel
2161 Reviews
Ximenting Commercial Area Taipei|3.86km from city centre
The pictures were taken when i’m about to check out so it doesn’t look neat. Overall i enjoyed my stay, there was one particular staff in which i forgot the name, night shift wear glasses, she was the sweetest! I explained my situation and she assisted me with all her might. The breakfast they have was one of a kind. Never had hotpot in a hotel. The location was also convenient, few walks to ximending subway and 1km to taipei main station.FromJPY 5,201
Very Good1269 Reviews
Ximenting Commercial Area Taipei|3.46km from city centre
Unfortunately, two full days of our stay were declared typhoon holidays, so we couldn’t go out to explore the city. Thankfully, the hotel has a cozy lounge on the 5th floor that offers complimentary snacks, coffee, and tea from 1:00 p.m. until midnight. It was a wonderful place to relax and unwind instead of staying in our room all day. We also really enjoyed the daily breakfast, which offered a delicious variety of food and was consistently excellent.
Take the Exit X5 elevator to reach the hotel.FromJPY 15,484
462 Reviews
Taipei Arena Taipei|1.48km from city centre
The hotel is a bit dated, which wasn't exactly what I had hoped for, but I was aware of it when making the reservation. Naturally, I would have preferred more modern facilities; however, the excellent service, convenient location, and outstanding breakfast buffet more than made up for it.
The breakfast offered a great variety of hot dishes, fruits, and beverages, and the hotel is just a five-minute walk from the nearest metro station, making it very easy to get around the city.
Overall, I had a very pleasant stay and would definitely consider coming back.FromJPY 7,848
1069 Reviews
Ximenting Commercial Area Taipei|3.47km from city centre
Our stay at Green World Zhonghua was a mix of positives and disappointments.
The biggest advantage of this hotel is its excellent location. It is right in the heart of Ximending, with the Ximending Shopping District just across the street. There is also a 7-Eleven right beside the hotel, which is very convenient. If you’re arriving by MRT, the hotel entrance is located beside Exit X5, and you can also easily access it from Exits X4 and 5. It is definitely one of the best locations for exploring Taipei.
Unfortunately, our experience with the hotel itself was disappointing. Some of the staff were not very friendly and were extremely strict with the check-in policy. Check-in is exactly at 3:00 PM, and if you want to check in earlier, they charge TWD 300 per hour. We had just completed a 24-hour journey, arrived early in the morning with six pieces of luggage, and had to wait almost six hours. We completely understand that hotels have check-in policies, but considering how exhausted we were, a little flexibility or hospitality would have been appreciated.
What made it even more frustrating was that when we finally entered our room, it wasn’t clean. We found stains on the pillowcase and the bathroom was not properly cleaned. (Photos attached.) This was unacceptable, especially after waiting so long.
We booked a Standard Room for a seven-night stay, knowing it would be small, but we did not expect the air conditioning to stop working after only two days. Two maintenance staff attempted to repair it but were unable to fix the problem. We ended up using only a fan for the remainder of our stay. The hotel also had no water for one evening, which added to the inconvenience.
When we raised our concerns about the cleanliness and the air conditioning, the response from the staff was disappointing. Instead of offering a proper solution, they simply suggested that we cancel our reservation and move to another hotel. With our luggage and after everything we had already gone through, that was not a realistic option.
The breakfast was another letdown. The weekday menu was almost exactly the same every day, while weekends only had two or three different dishes. Considering the hotel’s location, I would actually recommend skipping the breakfast and eating outside instead. There are plenty of restaurants, cafés, and local food stalls nearby that offer much better food at reasonable prices.
Overall, I would rate this hotel mainly for its outstanding location. If convenience is your top priority, it’s hard to beat. However, based on our experience with the cleanliness, staff attitude, unresolved air conditioning issue, water outage, and repetitive breakfast, I don’t think we would choose to stay here again.FromJPY 7,966
Very Good277 Reviews
Linjiang Night Market Taipei|1.76km from city centre
I personally found this place to be fantastic! The service attitude was top-notch, and the breakfast was incredibly rich and varied. The rooftop pool was also a major plus – perfect for some great photos.FromJPY 41,155
1024 Reviews
Zhongxiao Dunhua Commercial Circle Taipei|0.79km from city centre
The location is convenient, very close to Zhongxiao Dunhua MRT station. Breakfast options are limited. The staff were okay, and the room was relatively clean, although a bit old. However, the price was great, offering excellent value for money.FromJPY 7,281
Family friendly
1083 Reviews
Zhongxiao Dunhua Commercial Circle Taipei|0.44km from city centre
The Howard Plaza Hotel has an excellent location, very close to Daan Forest Park and Zhongxiao Fuxing MRT Station. The surrounding area has a full range of amenities and is very safe. The staff are attentive and friendly. As an older hotel, the facilities are a bit dated, and the room decor has a classic, slightly old-fashioned feel, but all of this is perfectly acceptable. The only downside was that the room number sign on my floor (I think it was the 6th floor, facing Ren'ai Road) seemed to be incorrect, directing me in the wrong direction from the elevator. I walked all the way to the end of the hall and couldn't find my room, so I had to turn back and eventually found it in the opposite direction. It was a bit frustrating. I hope they can fix that sign.FromJPY 17,942
584 Reviews
Ximenting Commercial Area Taipei|3.1km from city centre
We just returned to the Philippines after a wonderful 10-day stay at Finders Hotel Qufian, and we truly couldn’t be happier with our experience. We came in not expecting much, but this hotel completely exceeded our expectations. The staff were consistently friendly, helpful, and made both check-in and check-out smooth and easy.
From the moment we arrived, we felt genuinely welcomed. We absolutely loved the ambience of the hotel, everything was clean, cozy, and thoughtfully designed, especially for families. Traveling with a child can sometimes be challenging, but this place had everything we needed.
The kids’ playroom was a highlight, our daughter loved it so much and genuinely enjoyed every moment of our stay. The room, while not very large, was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. The temperature and heating were just right, making it very relaxing after long days of exploring.
The bed is more of a typical Asian-style mattress (not super soft), but it was perfectly fine for us and didn’t affect our comfort.
Breakfast was consistently excellent. We especially enjoyed the Chinese cuisine selection, and the unlimited beverages, coffee, snacks, and even noodles were such a thoughtful touch, perfect for those late-night cravings!
The WiFi was fast and reliable, which was important for me as I had online meetings and even did some Netflix streaming without any issues.
Location-wise, it’s fantastic, close to many of Taipei’s must-see attractions like Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, National Taiwan Museum, and 228 Peace Memorial Park (which we absolutely loved). It’s also conveniently near NTU Hospital Station, making it easy to get around the city. This is a hotel I would highly recommend, especially for families traveling with kids. In fact, I’ve already recommended it to friends!
We will definitely be booking here again on our next trip to Taiwan.FromJPY 6,004
Very Good165 Reviews
Ximenting Commercial Area Taipei|3.39km from city centre
Close to Ximen Station, just a 2-minute walk from exits X5/X6, which is super convenient! 👍
However, the bathroom drainage wasn't great; after three people showered, the water overflowed. 👎
The mattress was comfortable with no sagging, 👍 and the hotel also provides free instant noodles, sandwiches, and drinks. 👍
The water pressure was excellent, which is a big plus! 👍 But the pipes were very noisy; you could clearly hear them from rooms above, below, and next to us. 👎
Since it's designed in an industrial style, the ceiling has many holes, and when lying down, I noticed a lot of dust looking up. You just have to accept it…FromJPY 7,281
Very Good247 Reviews
Beitou Hot Spring Area Taipei|11.12km from city centre
The hotel's interior decor is stunning, with a strong Japanese feel. The rooms are clean and spacious, featuring a private onsen and yukata. Plus, there are complimentary drinks and snacks. If you check in around 3 PM, you can enjoy a tea ceremony performance with free green tea and snacks. Breakfast offers a wide and delicious selection!FromJPY 37,326
1103 Reviews
Taipei Railway Station Taipei|2.84km from city centre
The location is wonderful, just right above Taipei Metro Station. Their service is the best, my check-in was delayed due to room is not ready but they extend my check out time as compensation. Even the room have no window but the air is still fresh, no odour at all, my family are very sensitive to smell but we all agree this is a comfortable stay. Water dispenser and fridge are provided, towels will be changed daily during house keeping and is more than enough.FromJPY 4,917
277 Reviews
Taipei Railway Station Taipei|3.07km from city centre
The Z8 exit, which connects directly to the subway station, is right in front of the hotel entrance. However, there are no escalators, making it incredibly difficult to carry heavy, large suitcases up. It's actually more convenient to use the escalator at the K12 exit in the opposite K section and then cross the street. The room I stayed in this time had a great view and was a good size, not too small. However, the refrigerator wasn't cooling at all, so it wasn't suitable for keeping water, beer, or other drinks cold. It probably needs repair or replacement. The hotel is within walking distance of Ximending and conveniently located for using Taipei Main Station. The Airport MRT station is also close by. Overall, the facilities are clean. As for amenities, only basic toiletries are provided, so you'll need to bring your own personal hygiene items. Room cleaning needs to be requested by filling out a form and submitting it a day in advance. You can pick up complimentary bottled water from the 4th-floor lobby. Towel changes and trash removal can be requested on the same day. Usually, if you inform them before you head out, they'll take care of it while you're gone.FromJPY 10,307
Breakfast
1660 Reviews
Taipei Arena Taipei|1.33km from city centre
The hotel's location is excellent, just a few minutes' walk from the [subway station/main commercial area/scenic spot], making it very convenient for both business trips and leisure travel. During check-in, the front desk staff, [e.g., Mr./Ms. Wang], was warm and professional. They not only processed everything efficiently but also proactively recommended local specialties and transportation routes, which made us feel very welcome.FromJPY 14,963
417 Reviews
Taipei Railway Station Taipei|3.23km from city centre
I personally feel that this hotel is in a very 'local' area. How do I put it? It feels like living alongside ********* people, surrounded by their daily lives. The night market is 'right next door,' and the entire street downstairs is filled with everyday shops, markets, and food stalls that cater to locals. It's a bit far from Taipei Main Station (over 1km), but about a 10-minute walk to Shuanglian MRT Station. The hotel staff are all great – from the front desk gentlemen and office ladies to the cleaning staff and canteen employees, everyone is polite and has a good attitude. The breakfast was delicious.FromJPY 2,648
Very Good1484 Reviews
Taipei Railway Station Taipei|2.43km from city centre
We had an enjoyable stay overall. The hotel is in a fantastic location, the room was comfortable, and the breakfast offered an excellent selection.
However, some service interactions at breakfast felt unnecessarily formal and inconsistent. We were reminded to lower our voices even though we had only spoken briefly after finding our children, while other guests who were noticeably louder were not approached. These interactions made us feel less welcome than expected at a luxury hotel.
Overall, it’s a very good hotel, but a warmer and more genuine approach to service would have made the experience even better.FromJPY 23,899
575 Reviews
Taipei Arena Taipei|2.87km from city centre
Good location Hotel with a basement clean and small room. Close and easy to access by walking to Metro and Train station. Very close to the famous Pineapple Cake ChiaTe 88 Shop, must buy their Cake but also need too get line. Very close to the Raohe Night Market about 5-7 mins walk.FromJPY 7,210
520 Reviews
Taipei Railway Station Taipei|3.4km from city centre
This Hotel is a perfect choice, rooms are very spacious, bathroom is huge, location is great, it's close and easy to walk to Zongshan MRT station and this area has lots of great retail stores and restaurants , Taipei main station is walk-able around 1.2Km but if you are tired you will take a taxi, very convenient to take the express MRT from airport to Taipei main station in 35 minutes, there is a big supermarket right next to the hotel having very good stuff, there are a lot of 7 eleven and family mart stores around you, if you are a gym guy there are lots of 24h gyms near the hotel...also there is a 24h self service laundry store in front of the hotel....breakfast is great, I'm a egg lover guy and they serve perfect scrambled eggs, they also serve pineapples, passion fruit, home made yogurt and lots of good stuff, they have some Chinese items that you may not like, overall their breakfast is perfect....you can enjoy 24h free freshly brewed coffee at their lobby whenever you want and it's great....the only downside I noticed in their rooms is the lake of power outlets, there is only one row of power outlets on the front desk of the room, there are no outlets beside your bed or any where else which was really uncomfortable if you would like to charge your mobile or laptop while sitting on the bed.....sorry for my long review but I just enjoyed my stay there and wanted to share my experience in detailsFromJPY 6,808
738 Reviews
Ximenting Commercial Area Taipei|3.63km from city centre
Check-in was quick & easy, housekeeper is friendly & with manners, cleanliness is good enough but theres still room to improve for the dusts. The location is very very good! Right across the road is the Ximending walking district with many shops, food, & nice white cucumber fruit juice! Also, the family mart is also right opposite. Will choose this hotel again if i visit taipei again.FromJPY 6,595
Gym
351 Reviews
Shilin Night Market Taipei|5.28km from city centre
We had a pleasant stay at this hotel. It’s in a great location, conveniently close to the MRT and Shilin Night Market, which made getting around very easy. The staff were friendly and helpful, and the room was clean and comfortable. Snacks and drinks are great. The only area that could be improved is the internet connection, as the Wi‑Fi was occasionally unreliable.FromJPY 6,312
707 Reviews
World Trade Center Exhibition Center Taipei|1.15km from city centre
Facilities: Although the hotel opened in the 2000s, it feels very new. Hygiene: Excellent, even cleaner than expected. Environment: The lobby is decorated with great style, and the rooms are decent, but the downside is that breakfast is just average.FromJPY 14,160
193 Reviews
Ximenting Commercial Area Taipei|4.04km from city centre
We had a wonderful stay at Art’otel, and it truly exceeded our expectations—especially since this was such a last-minute booking. We’re so glad we chose to stay here.
Despite being a smaller boutique hotel, it offers a great balance of comfort, style, and convenience. The location is excellent, making it easy to get around and explore the area. Thoughtful touches throughout the stay made a difference, and we especially appreciated the premium amenities—like the Dyson hair dryer provided in selected room types, which added a nice touch of luxury.
Overall, it was a lovely experience, and we would definitely recommend Art’otel to anyone looking for a cosy yet well-located stay.FromJPY 5,508
Good1987 Reviews
Zhongxiao Dunhua Commercial Circle Taipei|0.76km from city centre
Enjoyed our stay at Miramar - room was clean and big with most facilities we needed (toiletries not provided due to them being more sustainable but was told you can purchase/request from front desk); the shampoo, bath soap and conditioner provided was one of the best I’ve tried for hotels. The gym although felt a bit cramped was decently equipped (had a smith machine too) and while I didn’t use it, there was an onsen bath as well with good facilities and 2 separate pools. Buffet breakfast had a good range of cuisines, a noodle/omelette station that’s made to order; especially enjoyed the variations in some of the dishes provided across the days. I didn’t mind the 10 minute walk away from the nearest mrt station much and liked that there was also a free entry to the art museum directly opposite from the hotel as well.FromJPY 13,971
546 Reviews
Xinyi District/Taipei 101 Taipei|2.96km from city centre
A little old but room given to me was big with proper work desk and chair. Free mini bar that has small can of coke and isotonic, instant tea, drip coffee, some other teabags and 2 small pack of crackers which get replenished daily. Gym was tiny with limited equip so not exactly ideal and has to access thru the emergency stairs from level 8 to level 9 - found it eerie first time accessing it. Breakfast spread limited, hopefully would be improved on to offer items like cup yogurt, granola etc. Location wise 1 stop from City Hall MRT, actually walkable if not in rush. There are buses to 101 so easier than changing train lines to go to the red lines. A large Poya next door, Starbucks just few steps away. Couple of convenience stores and more eateries opp.
Hotel staff generally was polite. The lady who assisted with my check in and out was extremely helpful. Overall impression of hotel was good. Very good value esp in comparison to the super high px near City Hall.FromJPY 11,678
Very Good252 Reviews
Xinyi District/Taipei 101 Taipei|2.54km from city centre
The location of Home Hotel is excellent. You can just walk to malls, restaurants, bars, convenient stores even Taipei 101 is just a 5 minute walk. The rooms are clean and comfortable. There is a big breakfast buffet spread and the price is reasonable. The hotel arranged also our shutting back to the airport easily. The hotel is also very easy for Uber to find. The hotel service is topnotch and they respond to requests right away. For me this hotel was a great place stay exploring Taipei. I will definitely stay here again.FromJPY 24,655
⭐ Top 5 Activities and Landmarks in Taipei
Taipei is the kind of city where a century-old temple rubs shoulders with a skyscraper and nothing jars. You've got culture in spades, night markets that smell of freshly cooked food, mountains a stone's throw from the MRT, and museums that hold half of Asia's history.
So, if you're not sure where to start, here are five ideas that beautifully capture the soul of Taipei and fit into almost any itinerary.
National Palace Museum
The National Palace Museum is one of those places where you could spend hours without realising it. Jade, porcelain, bronzes, calligraphy… everything is meticulously cared for and lovingly displayed. It's perfect if you fancy a truly cultural day out or you're looking for things to do in Taipei beyond the usual.
The collection is so vast that there's always a different gallery on rotation, which is brilliant if you've been before or you love living museums.
- General admission: approx. £4.
- Ideal time: 2 hours to see it without rushing.
- Perfect for: cloudy days, cultural getaways and curious travellers.
One of its most famous pieces is a jade carving in the shape of a cabbage with hidden insects.
Taipei Palace Museum
4.8/5
3152 Reviews
The museum has a large collection and a lot to see, so I recommend allowing plenty of time for your visit.
The audio guide is also worth using, as it provides helpful information about the exhibits and makes the experience more interesting. Photography is allowed, so you can take pictures of the exhibits as well.
It also features special exhibitions from time to time, so it’s a place you can enjoy visiting more than once.Taipei 101
Taipei 101 is an absolute must, no two ways about it. You ride one of the fastest lifts in the world and, when the doors open, the whole of Taipei is at your feet. The views are breathtaking, especially at sunset, when the city starts to light up.
If you're looking for romantic things to do in Taipei, this lookout is a sure bet. And if you fancy something more down-to-earth, the mall downstairs has some excellent restaurants for a bite afterwards.
- Admission: approx. £14 per adult.
- Opening hours: 10:00 to 21:00; ideally, go an hour before sunset.
- Inside, you can see the enormous golden damper that keeps the building stable in the event of a typhoon or earthquake.
Did you know... Taipei 101 has 101 floors—hence the name. It may seem obvious, but it's a fun fact you might find interesting.
Taipei 101
4.7/5
2907 Reviews
The weather was nice, and the scenery was beautiful. Since we had a reservation, we only had to wait about 5 minutes to get in.Yehliu Geopark
If you fancy a complete change of scene, Yehliu Geopark makes for a brilliant day out. It's about an hour from the city and features rock formations that look as if they've been hand-carved: the famous “Queen's Head”, mushroom-shaped rocks, caves and ocean views.
It's one of those places that gives you back that breath of fresh air after several days in the city, and it's also really easy to get to, whether by bus or on an organised tour. Without a doubt, one of the best things to do near Taipei.
- Admission: approx. £3.
- Recommended: go early for the light and to avoid large groups.
Yehliu Geopark
4.8/5
1180 Reviews
I've been here three times already, but each time I see the "Queen's Head" statue, the neck looks much thinner. I wonder how many more years it will remain visible? I'm on a day trip, and the leader takes photos for us; the results are great.Longshan Temple
In Taipei's Wanhua District, Longshan Temple awaits you—one of the places most cherished by locals. Its blend of Buddhism, Taoism and folk worship creates a captivating atmosphere, especially when worshippers gather in prayer and the temple fills with chanting and the scent of incense.
If you're caught on a rainy day and don't know what to do in Taipei when the heavens open, this temple will save the day: it's gorgeous, sheltered, and lets you discover a truly authentic part of the city.
Best time: early morning or at dusk.
This temple has survived earthquakes and bombings, yet it remains a key spiritual centre.
Lungshan Temple
4.8/5
449 Reviews
Don't miss Longshan Temple!
It’s perfect for making wishes and admiring beautifully detailed architecture.
I visited at night, no crowds, cool weather, and lucky enough to catch the lantern festival! It made the whole place look absolutely gorgeous.Taipei Zoo
For anyone travelling with kids, with friends, or simply after something relaxed, Taipei Zoo makes a lovely day out. It's enormous, well maintained, and has covered areas that come in handy if it rains. The pandas are usually the favourites, of course, but there are also tropical animals, leafy trails and a small cable car nearby to round off your visit.
It's one of those ideal spots if you're looking for things to do in Taipei on a Monday (when many museums are closed) or family-friendly things to do in Taipei without spending much.
- Admission: approx. £3 (very cheap for what you get).
- Who to go with: families, laid-back couples, groups looking for a relaxed day.
The Taipei Zoo opened in 1914 and today is one of the largest in Asia.
Taipei Zoo
4.8/5
758 Reviews
Connect with the zoo and play together🍜 Taipei, Taiwan's Culinary and Cultural Capital
If there's one thing that defines Taipei, it's the way it eats.
The whole city feels like one big open-air market… You know, steamed-food stalls, makeshift grills, traditional sweets and dishes that change with every street corner. On top of that, there's a vibrant Asian cultural scene, with creative cafés, small galleries and neighbourhoods that exude art at every turn.
In a way, Taipei is a delicious blend of tradition, modernity and constant curiosity.
🍢 Night markets and street food
Night markets are almost a religious experience in Taipei. As dusk falls, the streets fill with steaming stalls and the atmosphere transforms.
Shilin Night Market is the most famous of them all, and with good reason. Here you can try a bit of everything… From the legendary Taiwanese bubble tea to an XL-sized fried chicken cutlet you'll almost need two hands to hold.
Raohe Night Market, by contrast, has a more traditional feel; its illuminated entrance and the vendors preparing pepper buns in clay ovens are worth the visit in themselves.
If you're looking for things to do at night in Taipei, there's no simpler and more entertaining plan than hopping from stall to stall.
And if you fancy something different, these markets are also perfect for anyone looking for unusual things to do in Taipei, because you'll always come across a new dish you didn't even know how to pronounce.
And hey, the fun is in letting yourself be surprised.
阿宗麵線
4.6/5433 Reviews
📍No. 8-1, Emei Street, Wanhua District, Taipei, Taiwan
Average spend
JPY 315
☕ Creative cafés and independent culture
Truth be told, Taipei also has a more laid-back, modern side that charms anyone who enjoys exploring without rushing. Neighbourhoods like Zhongshan, Da'an and Ximending are full of creative cafés where coffee is treated almost like a ritual.
For those looking for alternative things to do in Taipei, spending an afternoon hopping between cafés is always a delight.
It lets you see the city from within, mingle with the locals and, along the way, sample Taiwanese treats that rarely make it into the guidebooks.
興波咖啡 華山旗艦店
4.8/56 Reviews
📍No. 27號, Section 2, Zhongxiao E Rd, Meihua Village, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100
Average spend
JPY 1,983
If you fancy organising your culinary and cultural itineraries better, you can always explore food and cultural experiences on Trip.com, which comes in very handy so you don't miss out on anything tempting.
🌤️ Best Time to Visit Taipei
Taipei enjoys a subtropical climate that changes quite a bit from month to month. For example, humid, intense summers, mild winters, and really pleasant springs and autumns.
So, if you're wondering when the best time to visit Taipei is, it's usually when the heat eases off and the rain lets up, although the city has something going on all year round.
And, by the way, Taipei is a great place to visit if you're looking for a safe, cultural and quite affordable destination, so don't worry too much about whether it's expensive to visit Taipei: it depends more on what you do than on the city itself.
Season | 🌡️ Average temperature | 🌦️ Weather | 🎯 Recommended activities |
Spring (March–May) | 20–26 °C | 🌸 Mild, a few light showers | Strolls through parks, night markets, temples with fewer people |
Summer (Jun–Sep) | 28–34 °C | 🔥 High humidity, heavy rain, occasional typhoons | Museums, Taipei 101, shopping centres, creative cafés |
Autumn (Oct–Nov) | 22–27 °C | 🍂 Settled, cool and very pleasant | Elephant Mountain, peaceful neighbourhoods, day trips to Tamsui |
Winter (Dec–Feb) | 14–18 °C | ❄️ Mild with occasional drizzle | Hot springs in Beitou, urban routes, cosy cafés |
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🚆 Day Trips from Taipei
The great thing about Taipei is that, as well as being a vibrant city, it's surrounded by nature, coastal towns and traditional spots that you can reach in no time.
Step just a little beyond the city and you'll find mountains blanketed in green, ancient alleyways, seascapes, and even hot spring areas where you can switch off from the hustle and bustle of urban life.
Here are three perfect getaways if you fancy seeing a bit more without having to juggle your time.
🏮 Jiufen & Shifen: Tradition and Scenery
This combination is a classic among the things to do near Taipei, and with good reason. Jiufen is a labyrinth of alleyways lit by red lanterns, charming teahouses and sea views that look straight out of a painting.
Shifen, on the other hand, is all about the scenery: waterfalls, short hikes and the famous railway line where people release sky lanterns into the sky.
- Time from Taipei: around 60–90 minutes depending on the mode of transport.
- How to get there: take a train to Ruifang, then hop on a bus or take a taxi to either village.
- The must-sees: Jiufen Old Street, Shifen Waterfall and the local suspension bridge.
🌅 Tamsui: Coastal, historic and laid-back
The Tamsui district in Taipei is perfect if you're after a simple day by the water — sunset included. It has a lovely waterfront promenade, markets brimming with fresh fish, and historic spots that show what the area was like centuries ago. If you're wondering what to do in Tamsui, Taipei, it's all about strolling, enjoying something delicious, and staying to watch the sky change colour.
- Time from Taipei: around 40 minutes.
- Getting there: take the red MRT line to Tamsui Station—couldn't be easier.
- Don't miss: Fort San Domingo, the pier at Lover's Bridge, and the area's giant ice creams.
🌿 Yangmingshan: Nature, trails and hot springs
Yangmingshan is a breath of fresh air. Mountains, gentle trails, volcanic landscapes and natural hot springs that, on cooler days, are just the ticket. For those looking for things to do outside Taipei, it's a perfect escape without straying too far. The national park is full of viewpoints and places to pause and enjoy the surroundings at your leisure.
- Travel time from Taipei: between 30 and 50 minutes.
- How to get there: direct bus from several city centre stations, including Jiantan.
- Unmissable: Xiaoyoukeng (with natural fumaroles), the Flower Clock, and the hot springs near Lengshuikeng.
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