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
5885 Reviews
Ximenting Commercial Area Taipei|4.53km from city centre
I usually stay at hotels that are part of international hotel chains, but unfortunately, there aren’t many options from the hotel chains I normally stay with in Taiwan. I chose this hotel because it was the first one that came up in my search and the reviews were generally quite good.
There are definitely some positive points. The housekeeping was excellent — the room was clean, tidy, and cleaned thoroughly throughout my 7-night stay. The hotel is also in a great location, and the Wi-Fi was fast and reliable. One feature I particularly liked was the automatic toilet, which was a nice touch and one of the reasons I’m giving the hotel 3.5 stars instead of 3.
However, I have stayed at many genuine five-star hotels from international hotel chains, and based on my experience, I don’t think this hotel quite meets the standard of a five-star property.
I booked a three-bed room, but the room felt quite small for three people. Even though there were two chairs at the desk, the desk itself was so small that it was basically full even when only one person was using it. For a room designed for three guests, I expected the workspace and overall usable space to be more practical.
There were also some parts of the room that could use maintenance. For example, there was a section of the floor that felt uneven and slightly sunken when walking over it. These details may seem minor, but they are noticeable and not what I would expect from a hotel that presents itself as five-star.
I also expected some basic amenities, such as a razor, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and bottled water, but none of these were provided. While the shampoo, shower gel, hand wash, and body lotion were all from the same line and had the same scent, there was no conditioner, which was surprising for a five-star hotel.
The water system was also inconvenient. Guests have to get drinking water from a filtration machine themselves, and if you want a water pitcher, you have to request one. I understand that the hotel may be trying to reduce plastic waste and be more environmentally friendly, which I appreciate. However, in that case, a reusable water pitcher or glass bottle should be provided in the room from the beginning rather than making guests request one.
The toilet area was also extremely small. Although I liked the automatic toilet, the bathroom door did not close properly. Even when closed, there was still a noticeable gap, which again is not what I would expect from a five-star property.
Another issue was early check-in. I arrived several hours before the official check-in time and asked if I could check in early, but the hotel said I would have to pay for an additional full night. I found this particularly unreasonable considering that I was staying at the hotel for 7 nights. For a guest staying that long, I would expect the hotel to be a little more flexible and accommodating with early check-in, especially if the room was available. I would have understood a reasonable early check-in fee, perhaps 30–50% of the room rate, but charging an entire additional night felt excessive.
To be honest, I have even stayed at non-chain three-star hotels that provided a better overall experience than this. That is why I find it difficult to consider this property a true five-star hotel.
Overall, the hotel has a great location, fast Wi-Fi, excellent housekeeping, and some nice features such as the automatic toilet. However, considering the room size, limited amenities, maintenance issues, bathroom design, water system, and especially the early check-in policy, I feel this hotel is closer to a good four-star property than a true five-star hotel.
If I were rating the hotel purely based on the room and overall five-star standard, I would probably give it 3 stars. However, because of the automatic toilet, fast Wi-Fi, good location, and excellent housekeeping, I’m giving it 3.5 stars overall.From€49
Good1234 Reviews
Ximenting Commercial Area Taipei|3.74km from city centre
We stayed here a few times a few years ago. Came back this time as we found out that the hotel has been upgraded. It provides shuttle services and heritage tour around the hotel. The hotel is busy as it's now u der the umbrella of Cosmos group.From€74
Very Good4812 Reviews
Shilin Night Market Taipei|4.49km from city centre
The environment is really great, the room is spacious, and it even has a large balcony, a big bathtub, and a smart toilet~~ My family was very satisfied!! The lobby is magnificent and opulent. We didn't get to explore the secret passages due to time constraints, but we'll definitely come back next time...From€73
2987 Reviews
Taipei Railway Station Taipei|2.79km from city centre
As per other reviews, the location is perfect. It is linked to the Taipei Main station. The hotel can be accessed through the basement via exit M6 (staircase but sheltered) and M8 (escalator, but need to cross the road). The downside of the room is the aircon faces and blows directly on the face when laying on the bed. It can be disturbing when sleeping. The hot water shower and basin tap is a challenge to adjust, as it is not the normal turn to the red sign for hot water.The front desk staff are not friendly, they usually do not have smiles.From€57
Very Good634 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.From€196
1060 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.From€62
Business travel
2200 Reviews
Ximenting Commercial Area Taipei|3.86km from city centre
Great location, very close to Taipei Main Station and within easy reach of the main shopping areas. Check-in and check-out were both very fast and efficient, and the hotel staff were friendly and helpful throughout my stay.
Highly recommended for travelers who want convenient transportation, quick access in and out of the city, and easy access to shopping.
The only thing that could be improved is the floor plan and wayfinding. The layout can be a little confusing, and it was quite easy to get lost at first. Overall, though, a very convenient and pleasant stay.From€29
Very Good1293 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.From€100
453 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.From€43
1112 Reviews
Ximenting Commercial Area Taipei|3.47km from city centre
We had a wonderful stay at Green World Zhonghua and would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Taipei.
The hotel's location is excellent. It is directly opposite Ximending, making it easy to explore the shopping streets, restaurants, and local attractions on foot. There is also a 7-Eleven conveniently located downstairs, and the entrance to the MRT underground station is just outside the hotel, making it very convenient to travel around Taipei.
The room was comfortable and met all our needs. What impressed us the most was the exceptional service from the hotel staff. Our flight was delayed until midnight, and they kindly helped us extend our room until late evening, which made a huge difference to our travel experience. Their willingness to accommodate our request and their friendly, helpful attitude were truly appreciated.
Overall, we had a very pleasant and hassle-free stay. With its unbeatable location, convenient transportation access, and outstanding customer service, Green World Zhonghua is an excellent choice for anyone visiting Taipei. We would definitely stay here again on our next trip.From€47
Very Good271 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.From€217
1035 Reviews
Zhongxiao Dunhua Commercial Circle Taipei|0.79km from city centre
The hotel is located near to the Zhongxiao Dunhua station (exit 3) and walking distance from Ming Yao Department Store, Taipei Dome, Songshan Cultural and Creative Park and National Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall. There are also many convenience stores within the vicinity and famous donut stores nearby. During our stay, we travelled by foot from the hotel to Pokemon Center Taipei, Taipei 101 and even to Linjiang Night Market.
The room is spacious. There are bathtub and shower in our room, but due to the law in Taiwan, please prepare your own toothbrush and toothpaste. There are also luggage weighing machine and coin-laundry machines in a small room on the floor where they serve breakfast. While not to expect a widespread of choices, I think their breakfast selection is a decent combination of local dishes and western options. Special mention that their pineapples are very sweet!
If you are interested, you may also check out over the counter on the selection of local products that can be ordered and delivered to the hotel. It may save you trouble to locate some of the famous brands in Taipei.
Overall, we enjoyed our stay at Green World Zhongxiao.From€40
Family friendly
1094 Reviews
Zhongxiao Dunhua Commercial Circle Taipei|0.44km from city centre
I was a bit worried it might be too old at first, but my actual stay was really pleasant. Even though the facilities are a bit dated, they're all very well-maintained and clean. I slept wonderfully this past week. The buffet breakfast was delicious too, giving me something to look forward to every morning. The hotel is conveniently located with easy access to transportation, and there's a convenience store nearby.From€105
586 Reviews
Ximenting Commercial Area Taipei|3.1km from city centre
Decent hotel for budget travelers who prefer to be out all day rather than indulge in amenities. The concierge on Basement 1 has a selection of free snacks (crackers, biscuits etc.) and cup noodles you can just swipe for the day's itinerary. Daily breakfast offers congee, rice, and about 3-4 entrees, and a coffee machine (espresso or americano). The deluxe triple room we booked was spacious as was the bathroom. Room details were average and new-ish. The heavy curtains concealed old steel windows. Beddings and towels were changed every other day or so but could be also changed upon request. Staff was helpful and could communicate well in English. We appreciated its nearness to multiple 7-11s, Watsons, and bakeries. The Peace Park, National Taiwan Museum, and MRT station (NTU Hospital) were just a block away.From€34
Good181 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…From€43
Good250 Reviews
Beitou Hot Spring Area Taipei|11.12km from city centre
1. Misleading Entrance Signage
Upon arrival, we followed the signage pasted on a pillar that directed guests to a staircase entrance. However, when we reached that entrance, we were shocked to find the door marked with the sign “来宾止步” (“Guests Stop Here”). When we raised this with your staff, we were told that this entrance has not been in use since the COVID-19 period. While we understand that certain operations may have changed during the pandemic, COVID-19 restrictions have ended for more than two years. If the primary entrance has been permanently closed, why has no corrective action been taken and the misleading signage still left there? Carrying heavy luggage up and down a sloped path unnecessarily was frustrating and avoidable.
2. No Staff Assistance or Clear Signage at the New Entrance
When we finally located the new entrance, there were no staff members on standby to assist us, nor was there any clear external signage indicating that this was the correct way to access the lobby. The explanation given later was that all staff were away assisting with parking which is not acceptable. At least one person should have been assigned to remain at the entrance, or the last person leaving should have arranged for another colleague to cover the position. In addition, the Operations Director mentioned that there is signage inside the new entrance directing guests to take the elevator to the lobby. However, this logic is flawed. If guests cannot locate the correct entrance in the first place, how could they possibly see a sign placed inside?
3. Poorly Trained and Unprofessional Front Desk Behavior
After struggling outside, we called the number listed on Google. Only then did someone finally come out and lead us in. By that time, we were exhausted and upset. When we confronted the front desk staff about why they ignored us, despite us clearly visible outside the “来宾止步” glass door, making eye contact and knocking for help, but they claimed they “did not see us.” This excuse was clearly untrue, as we observed them looking in our direction. Even more disappointing, none of the front desk staff offered an apology even until we requested to speak to the Operations Director and asked him to review the CCTV footage. After reviewing the footage, the Operations Director confirmed that the front desk had not been alert and apologized on their behalf. However, he did not acknowledge that the front desk’s attitude and lack of sincerity were also serious problems. Being “not alert enough” and showing no sense of apology or empathy are two entirely different issues.
As an international hotel, the front desk is the first impression of your service. Regardless of the quality of your facilities, this poor experience completely overshadowed the positive aspects of our stay. It also severely damages the reputation of Kagaya Group — a brand that has long been admired for its exemplary Japanese hospitality and politeness. Although we appreciate the Operations Director’s effort to make amends by offering us a meal and gifts (which we declined), it remains undeniable that this incident reflects a failure in staff training and management oversight.
We hope that management will seriously review this incident, especially the issues of:
- Inadequate and misleading signage at the entrance
- Lack of staff presence and assistance upon guest arrival
- Poor front desk awareness and unprofessional behavior
We trust that Kagaya Group will uphold its proud tradition of service by addressing these problems promptly and ensuring no other guests experience such treatment in the future.
Thank you for your attention.From€197
1237 Reviews
Taipei Railway Station Taipei|2.84km from city centre
I had a wonderful stay at Mayer Inn. The room was very clean, comfortable, and well-maintained. Although I booked a room without a window, it still felt cozy and was perfect for a good night’s rest. The location is excellent, with easy access to public transport, restaurants, and shopping areas, making it very convenient for travelers. The staff were friendly and helpful throughout my stay, and the check-in/check-out process was smooth. Overall, it’s great value for money, and I would definitely stay here again on my next trip.From€27
303 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.From€57
Breakfast
1704 Reviews
Taipei Arena Taipei|1.33km from city centre
Great Hospitality in Taipei!! Loved my stay here! Excellent location, comfortable facilities, and incredibly thoughtful staff who even surprised me with a birthday cake for my special day. Will definitely come back!From€73
431 Reviews
Taipei Railway Station Taipei|3.23km from city centre
The room's cleanliness was decent, and the service was good. You can self check-in, and there's a common area where you can sit and use your laptop. I booked a standard room, and the space was alright. However, the main window faced the street, which was a night market, so the noise from traffic at night was very loud and affected my sleep. The hotel breakfast was pretty good.From€15
Very Good1548 Reviews
Taipei Railway Station Taipei|2.43km from city centre
A genuine and detailed review based on my recent stay.
The mattress feels as if it has a latex overlay. It felt slightly stiff and uncomfortable when I first laid down, though my overall sleep quality was still acceptable. I am curious whether this mattress type is only used in rooms 547 and 548, or if this is the standard bedding setup across the entire hotel.
The front desk and concierge service were excellent and flexible. We were originally assigned rooms on the 10th floor, which would have offered great city views. After making a last-minute additional booking and requesting adjacent rooms, the team kindly rearranged our stay to two end rooms on the 5th floor. Although there was no view, the arrangement was perfectly fine for our group.
Some hotel policies feel less aligned with international luxury standards. Breakfast service ends promptly at 10:00 AM, which is quite early, and the standard check-out time is 11:00 AM. That said, the hotel was accommodating and allowed us a complimentary late check-out until noon upon request.
We had an unpleasant experience with one breakfast staff member. We booked two rooms in total: one with breakfast included and one without. Our friend from the non-breakfast room came downstairs after 10 AM, by which time the buffet had already been fully cleared with no food left at all. Despite there being nothing available to take, the staff assumed we were trying to sneak in complimentary food and asked us to sign a charge slip. This unfair presumption that we were trying to gain petty advantages made our group feel very uncomfortable.
The gym and sauna area are always extremely crowded. Unlike typical luxury hotels, these facilities are open to external members as well as in-house guests, resulting in heavy traffic at all times. On the positive side, the rooftop swimming pool is well-maintained and very pleasant to use.
The room design is stylish and modern. The minibar is generously laid out and visually gives the impression of being complimentary, though guests should note that items are actually chargeable. The shower pressure is strong and excellent, offering a great bathing experience.
Final Verdict
The Regent Taipei is absolutely worth booking if the rate is under HK$2000. However, for any rate above HK$2000, it is far better to upgrade to the Mandarin Oriental Taipei for a HKD few hundred dollars extra — the service and overall standard truly match its premium luxury ranking.From€150
584 Reviews
Taipei Arena Taipei|2.87km from city centre
The basement room offers good value for money. However, the soundproofing is poor, and the exhaust fan was noisy all night. It's very close to the Taipei Dome and 101. Overall, I'd recommend it for light sleepers, it's super [missing word, perhaps 'convenient' or 'cheap'?], and very affordable. It only took 15 minutes to get back after the Mayday concert.From€39
532 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 detailsFrom€38
752 Reviews
Ximenting Commercial Area Taipei|3.63km from city centre
Good locations, can access to many places, exactly located at Ximending, can walk in night market. Stay so free and comfortable, surrounding all are restaurants and full night activities like shopping and eating Taiwan snacks. . Recommend to stay.From€36
Gym
343 Reviews
Shilin Night Market Taipei|5.28km from city centre
This is our second time staying in Stat Beauty Hotel for their Luxury Double Room. This time we stay for 4 nights and the location of the hotel is near the MTR station and the night market of Shillin Night Market. It will about 15 - 20 minutes from the hotel walk to the MTR station or take 20 - 26 minutes from the hotel walk to Shillin Night Market.
The room we booked is big enough for us it two persons that stay and the room is nice but the hotel always provide one pillow for one person . If I sleep on the bed with only one pillow then I can see the rooftop and not the TV. I suggest to the hotel to provide two pillows for each person to stay without our request, so that he can watch the TV easily.
The bathroom is big and come with a big bathtub. The water pressure is now t very strong but just good enough for shower.
I would like to make a bit complaint to the old lady for the the housekeeping. She only come to change towels, refill toiletries and thru rubbish only and never do cleaning and arrange the bedding. So on my third day O have towels request to the front seat to tell her to clean our toilet.
Overall we are happy to stay in Star Beauty Hotel and would like to recommend this hotel to other travellers. I will stay again if I come to Taipei in the future.From€34
714 Reviews
World Trade Center Exhibition Center Taipei|1.15km from city centre
It was pretty close to Da’An metro station, approximately about 5 mins walk.
Room was alittle rustic and there are two lifts. I wouldn’t put too high of an expectations over their onsen or private sauna but is nice to have it especially if it gets too cold . Overall, I will say is definitely convenient to get around from the hotel. Bed was comfortable but there aren’t any Taipei 101 views, as there are tons of new architecture being built. You can still walk along back alley to witness the majestic night view of the city.From€68
194 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.From€40
Good2048 Reviews
Zhongxiao Dunhua Commercial Circle Taipei|0.76km from city centre
miramar taipei garden hotel one of the best hotel we stayed, which front desk people really friendly and helpful all the time. food good less choices but still strategic place to metro train, seven eleven, family mart.From€73
557 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.From€71
Very Good257 Reviews
Xinyi District/Taipei 101 Taipei|2.54km from city centre
Home Hotel Xinyi District, Taipei
In Taipei, you're never short of hotel choices, but finding one that perfectly blends a sense of 'local life' with 'design aesthetics' and truly lets you immerse yourself in the city's pulse is rare. Home Hotel, located in the heart of Xinyi District, is one of those places where you instantly slow down the moment you step inside.
It doesn't boast dazzling crystal chandeliers or deliberately ostentatious luxury. The exterior, a blend of wood and metal, is understated yet timeless. The entrance isn't grand, but it feels like a space that understands the beauty of minimalism, making you feel comfortable at first glance.
The atmosphere shifts the moment you enter the lobby. The front desk staff speak in a relaxed, natural tone, unhurried, like friends familiar with the city's rhythm. The space isn't overly decorated, yet it possesses a 'just right' sense of ease, offering complimentary hot tea to guests for a warm welcome.
The meticulous design of the guest rooms is subtly present in every corner. Upon opening the door, the wooden floors and warm yellow lighting immediately induce relaxation. The furniture features clean, simple lines with no superfluous decoration, yet you can feel the subtlety and thoughtfulness of ********* design everywhere.
The long desk is perfect for spreading out a laptop, camera, and travel notes. The bedside reading lamp provides just the right amount of light without being harsh. The excellent water pressure in the separate shower and toilet is one of the details I value most. These aren't luxuries, but thoughtful touches. It's the kind of comfort that makes you want to return again and again.
Stepping out of Home Hotel, you're right in the most charming living area of Xinyi District. Department stores, Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, Shin Kong Mitsukoshi, coffee shops, small bars, curated boutiques... every street has its own rhythm, and every corner holds the possibility of a surprise.
The Xinyi District is even more captivating at night, with neon lights reflecting off glass facades, clean streets, and a sweet, humid scent in the air.
As you stroll back to the hotel, you realize that the greatest luxury in travel isn't the sights, but the space that allows you to pause.
Home Hotel isn't the grandest or most extravagant hotel. But it has Taipei's warmth, Taipei's rhythm, and Taipei's 'just come as you are' ease.
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⭐ 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
3108 Reviews
Worth watching and rewatching€4
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
2895 Reviews
Great views of Taipei. No need to go to the 101st floor; the views from the 89th are the same.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
1163 Reviews
Our Tour Guide Dillian Hsu very friendly and arranged everything well. We are very happy of this journey. Thanks trip.€3
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
This is Taipei's oldest and most revered temple. Stepping inside, you're enveloped in a unique atmosphere filled with the fervent energy of countless worshippers, the lingering smoke of incense, and the resounding chanting of sutras.
Many deities are enshrined here, and it's believed that you can receive blessings for a wide range of things, including academic success, health, safe childbirth, and business prosperity. In particular, the traditional fortune-telling method, where you throw red crescent-shaped wooden blocks (mooncakes/divining blocks) to receive answers from the gods, and the ritual of receiving a red thread from Yuexia Laoren, the god of matchmaking, are valuable experiences that allow you to feel the local culture firsthand.
While the temple grounds are a place of daily prayer for locals, they are also very open and welcoming to tourists. The location for receiving incense and the order of worship are a little complex, but there are Japanese-language signs and volunteer staff, so you can navigate with ease. It's easily accessible, just a short walk from Longshan Temple MRT station, and surrounded by night markets and historical shops, making it an absolute must-see spot when visiting Taipei.
There are also posts about how to worship, so please refer to them if you're interested.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
Great experience! Had so much fun with the animal sightseeing. Not just kids will enjoy this activity!€3
🍜 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.
Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodle
4.6/5433 Reviews
📍No. 8-1, Emei Street, Wanhua District, Taipei, Taiwan
Average spend
€2
☕ 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.
Simple Kaffa Huashan Flagship Store
4.8/56 Reviews
📍No. 27號, Section 2, Zhongxiao E Rd, Meihua Village, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100
Average spend
€12
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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❓ FAQ – Things to Do in Taipei
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