Picture this: you’re standing at the top of Elephant Mountain as the sun sets over Taiwan’s capital, watching Taipei 101 light up against a backdrop of lush green mountains. Below you, the city pulses with life, its night markets coming alive with sizzling street food and cheerful vendors.
This is Taipei, a city where ancient temples sit beside cutting-edge skyscrapers, where you can hike volcanic mountains in the morning and sip award-winning cocktails in a hidden speakeasy by night.
If you’re planning your first trip to Taiwan’s capital, you’re in for an unforgettable experience. From world-famous soup dumplings to mysterious mountain villages, this guide covers all the essential things to do in Taipei that will make your visit truly special.
Eat Your Way Through Taipei’s Legendary Night Markets
When it comes to fun things to do in Taipei, nothing quite compares to diving into the electric atmosphere of the city’s night markets. These bustling hubs are where local culture, incredible food, and vibrant energy collide to create an experience you won’t find anywhere else.
Taipei boasts several fantastic night markets, each with its own personality. Raohe Street Night Market is beloved for its authentic local vibe and incredible food selection. The moment you walk through its ornate temple entrance, you’re greeted by a sensory explosion of sizzling woks, aromatic spices, and cheerful vendors calling out their specialties.
Shilin Night Market is the largest and most famous, offering not just food but also games, shopping, and entertainment. For a more local experience, Ningxia Night Market specializes primarily in food and has earned Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition for several of its stalls.
The beauty of these markets lies in their accessibility. Most dishes cost between 50 to 100 TWD, making it incredibly affordable to sample multiple delights. Try the famous pepper buns from Fuzhou Ancestor, where each crispy pastry is baked in a traditional clay oven. Don’t miss the oyster omelettes, xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), and the surprisingly addictive sweet potato balls.
For vegetarians, there’s still plenty to enjoy, from scallion pancakes and dan bing (egg rolls) to fresh fruit smoothies and bubble tea. Most markets operate from late afternoon until midnight, with the best atmosphere typically between 7 PM and 10 PM.
Hike Elephant Mountain for Stunning Sunset Views
Among the top things to do in Taipei, hiking Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) deserves a spot at the very top of your list. This relatively short but steep climb rewards you with arguably the best panoramic views of the entire city.
The trail is well-maintained and easily accessible via the MRT. Simply hop off at Xiangshan Station and follow the clearly marked signs for about five minutes until you reach the trailhead. The hike itself involves climbing approximately 600 steps over 1.5 kilometers, taking most people between 20 to 30 minutes.
Yes, it can be challenging, especially on a humid day. But trust me, every step is worth it when you reach the viewing platforms and see Taipei 101 rising majestically above the cityscape with mountains rolling away in the distance.
Timing your visit is crucial. Arrive about an hour before sunset to secure a good spot on the popular rock platforms. As the sun dips below the horizon and the city lights begin to twinkle, the scene transforms into something magical. The golden hour bathes Taipei 101 in warm light, creating perfect photography conditions.
The trail can get crowded, especially on weekends, so weekday visits offer a more peaceful experience. Bring plenty of water, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t forget your camera. There are also several other viewing points along the trail if the main platform is too packed.
After your descent, you’ll find numerous cafes and restaurants near the base of the mountain, perfect for refueling after your climb.
Experience Taipei 101 from Every Angle
No visit to Taipei is complete without experiencing the iconic Taipei 101. This architectural marvel was the world’s tallest building from 2004 to 2010 and remains Taiwan’s most recognizable landmark.
The building’s unique design was inspired by bamboo, with eight segments that symbolize prosperity and growth in Asian culture. Its distinctive pagoda-style architecture makes it instantly recognizable from anywhere in the city.
Taking the high-speed elevator to the observation deck is an experience in itself. This engineering marvel rockets you from ground level to the 89th floor in just 37 seconds. Your ears will pop, but the thrill is undeniable.
The 89th-floor indoor observatory offers 360-degree views through floor-to-ceiling windows. On clear days, you can see across the entire Taipei Basin to the surrounding mountains. The 91st floor features an outdoor viewing area, though the metal barriers can obstruct photos.
For the ultimate experience, book tickets for Skyline 460 on the 101st floor, where you can step onto the actual rooftop while safely harnessed. This exclusive experience runs twice daily at 2 PM and 3 PM.
Don’t miss the massive tuned mass damper between the 87th and 92nd floors. This 660-ton steel pendulum helps stabilize the building during typhoons and earthquakes, and it’s the largest of its kind in the world. The engineering behind it is fascinating, especially when you learn that Taiwan sits in an active seismic zone.
After your visit, the lower floors house luxury shopping, including multiple floors of restaurants. This is where you’ll find the famous Din Tai Fung, perfect for timing your visit around a meal.
For photographers, the best external views of Taipei 101 are from Elephant Mountain or the lesser-known “Hotspot 101” location on Songren Road, particularly beautiful at night when the tower illuminates in different colors.
Savor Authentic Taiwanese Cuisine and Famous Dumplings
Food is not just sustenance in Taipei; it’s an art form, a cultural experience, and one of the absolute best things to do in Taipei. The city’s culinary scene ranges from humble street stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants, all celebrating Taiwan’s unique food heritage.
Start your day with a traditional Taiwanese breakfast. Dan bing (egg rolls) are a local favorite: thin, chewy crepes filled with eggs, cheese, and sometimes pork floss or bacon, topped with sweet soy sauce. Pair it with hot soy milk, which in Taiwan is more savory than sweet, often served with chunks of fried dough (youtiao).
For lunch or dinner, xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) are absolutely essential. These delicate parcels of joy contain savory broth and meat wrapped in thin dough. The trick is to gently pick them up, place them on your spoon, nibble a small hole to release steam, sip the broth, and then enjoy the entire dumpling.
Din Tai Fung is the most famous destination for Xiaolongbao, with its original location on Xinyi Road still drawing massive crowds. The branch at Taipei 101 is more convenient but expect wait times exceeding an hour during peak periods. The quality is exceptional, though, with each dumpling meticulously crafted to contain exactly 18 folds.
Other must-try dishes include beef noodle soup, considered Taiwan’s national dish. The rich, aromatic broth simmers for hours with tender beef and chewy noodles. Gua bao (Taiwanese burgers) feature fluffy steamed buns stuffed with braised pork belly, pickled vegetables, and peanut powder.
For a Michelin-starred experience without breaking the bank, visit Shin Yeh Taiwanese Signature Restaurant. Their Three Cup Chicken, braised pork belly, and pineapple shrimp showcase traditional Taiwanese home cooking elevated to restaurant quality. A feast for four people costs around 3,784 TWD (approximately £94).
Don’t forget to try stinky tofu at least once. Yes, it smells exactly like its name suggests, and yes, it’s an acquired taste. But trying it is a quintessential Taiwanese experience that makes for great stories back home.
Explore Historic Temples and Cultural Landmarks
Taipei’s temples offer a fascinating glimpse into Taiwan’s spiritual heritage and are among the most rewarding things to do in Taipei for culture enthusiasts.
Longshan Temple stands as one of the city’s most important religious sites. Built in 1738, this Buddhist and Taoist temple showcases intricate traditional architecture with elaborate roof decorations, carved wooden pillars, and ornate details that took master craftsmen years to complete.
The temple welcomes visitors throughout the day, with mornings offering a more serene atmosphere as locals come to pray and make offerings. The air is thick with incense smoke, and the sounds of chanting create an almost meditative environment.
If you’re lucky, you might encounter an English-speaking volunteer who can explain the fortune-telling rituals using moon blocks. This traditional practice involves asking a question, tossing two crescent-shaped wooden blocks, and interpreting the answer based on how they land.
The area surrounding Longshan Temple also has a rich social history. The nearby streets once housed Taipei’s largest homeless population, but the temple’s charitable work, funded by visitor donations, provides free meals at vegetarian restaurants in the neighborhood.
For the most architecturally stunning temple, head to Dalongdong Bao’an Temple. This masterpiece of traditional temple construction recently underwent meticulous restoration, earning a UNESCO Asia-Pacific Heritage Award. The level of detail in the carvings, paintings, and ceramic work is absolutely breathtaking.
The Confucius Temple sits directly across the street from Bao’an Temple, offering a contrasting aesthetic. Its minimalist design reflects Confucian philosophy, with clean lines and subdued colors creating a peaceful, contemplative space.
The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall represents a more controversial aspect of Taipei’s history. This imposing structure honors Taiwan’s former leader, whose authoritarian rule remains debated today. Regardless of your political views, the architecture is impressive, and the hourly changing of the guard ceremony draws crowds with its precise choreography.
The surrounding Liberty Square is enormous, providing a peaceful space for walking, and the nearby 228 Peace Memorial Park offers quiet reflection on Taiwan’s complex modern history.
Discover Taipei’s Creative Side at Cultural Parks
Taipei’s transformation of old industrial sites into vibrant creative hubs showcases the city’s innovative spirit and represents some of the most unique things to do in Taipei.
Huashan 1914 Creative Park occupies a former sake and wine factory from the Japanese colonial period. Since its conversion in 2005, this sprawling complex has become a hotspot for artists, designers, and creative entrepreneurs.
As you wander through the preserved factory buildings with their towering chimneys, you’ll encounter constantly rotating art exhibitions, pop-up stores selling handmade goods, independent boutiques, and cozy cafes. The industrial aesthetic provides an atmospheric backdrop for photography, and the creative energy is infectious.
Songshan Cultural and Creative Park offers a similar concept but with a different vibe. This former tobacco factory from 1937 has been reimagined as a modern creative campus. The long corridors of the old factory transport you back in time, with vintage photographs of former workers lining the walls.
The complex includes five warehouses where cigarettes were once manufactured, now transformed into exhibition spaces and creative studios. The central courtyard provides a peaceful spot to rest, often hosting outdoor markets and events.
Eslite Spectrum at Songshan deserves special mention. This multi-level bookstore and lifestyle mall is a paradise for anyone who loves beautiful stationery, unique design products, and curated goods. Each floor offers something different: books, tea, crafts, fashion, and gourmet food courts.
You could easily spend hours browsing the incredible selection of Japanese stationery, local fashion brands, and artisan cosmetics. The basement food court serves excellent puer milk tea and fresh dumplings, perfect for refueling between shopping sessions.
Both creative parks are free to enter, though shops and restaurants keep regular business hours. The spaces come alive in the evenings when pop-up markets and live performances often take place.
Take a Day Trip to the Mountain Village of Jiufen
If you can spare a day from exploring Taipei proper, the charming mountain town of Jiufen ranks among the best things to do in Taipei’s surrounding area.
This former gold mining village clings to hillsides overlooking the ocean, its narrow streets packed with teahouses, food stalls, and souvenir shops. The atmospheric alleyways, red lanterns, and misty mountain backdrop create a scene that inspired animation in Studio Ghibli’s “Spirited Away” and featured prominently in the Taiwanese film “City of Sadness.”
Getting to Jiufen is straightforward. Take the local TRA train from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang (about 45 minutes using your EasyCard), then catch a bus or taxi for the 15-minute journey up the mountain. Alternatively, organized tours handle all transportation, often combining Jiufen with nearby Yehliu Geopark and Shifen.
Timing your visit matters significantly. Arrive early morning (around 8-10 AM) to experience Jiufen before the crowds descend. The streets become uncomfortably packed by afternoon, especially on weekends. If possible, stay until evening when the red lanterns illuminate, creating a magical atmosphere.
The iconic A-Mei Teahouse is Jiufen’s most photographed spot. This multi-story traditional teahouse cascades down the hillside, its exterior covered in glowing red lanterns. While you can experience a traditional tea ceremony inside, the best photos actually come from across the way at Skyline Teahouse, which offers an unobstructed view.
Don’t miss trying taro balls, a signature local dessert. These chewy, mochi-like balls served with shaved ice, sweet potato, and red beans make a perfect refreshing treat. Lai Ah Po’s shop is one of the oldest and most famous.
Wander through Jiufen Old Street, sampling fresh strawberry mochi, grilled squid, and other street snacks. The shops sell traditional tea sets, handicrafts, and local tea from the surrounding mountains. Purchase some high-mountain oolong as a souvenir; the quality is excellent and more affordable than in Taipei.
Ride the Maokong Gondola to Tea Plantations
For a completely different mountain experience and one of the more relaxing things to do in Taipei, the Maokong Gondola offers a scenic journey above the city.
This cable car system starts at Taipei Zoo Station and winds up the mountainside, offering progressively better views as you ascend. Standard gondolas have regular floors, but for a thrilling experience, book a glass-bottom cabin and watch the forest floor drop away beneath your feet.
The 30-minute ride takes you through four stations, eventually reaching Maokong village, famous for its tea plantations and traditional teahouses. The area has been cultivating high-mountain oolong tea for over a century, and many teahouses offer tasting experiences alongside panoramic city views.
Choose from numerous teahouses in Maokong, each offering slightly different atmospheres and tea selections. Some have outdoor terraces perfect for sunset viewing, while others feature more traditional indoor settings. A typical tea service includes multiple infusions of the same leaves, allowing you to appreciate how the flavor evolves.
Beyond tea, Maokong offers several hiking trails that wind through tea plantations and bamboo forests. The walking paths connect various teahouses and viewpoints, making it easy to explore on foot.
For a fuller experience, consider booking a tea plantation tour that visits multiple tea-growing regions. The Pinglin and Maokong tour combines visits to working tea farms with tastings and education about Taiwan’s tea culture.
The gondola operates daily, but lines can be long during peak hours and weekends. Early morning or late afternoon visits typically encounter fewer crowds. The views are spectacular at sunset when Taipei’s lights begin twinkling below.
Experience Modern Taipei in Ximending and Chifeng Street
Taipei’s contemporary culture shines brightest in its trendy shopping districts, making them essential stops for experiencing the best things to do in Taipei’s urban scene.
Ximending is often called the “Harajuku of Taipei.” This pedestrian-only district pulses with youth culture, neon signs, street performers, and endless shopping opportunities. Fashion boutiques, manga cafes, tattoo parlors, and bubble tea shops line every street.
The famous rainbow crosswalk at Ximen MRT Station provides the perfect Instagram-worthy photo opportunity. As you explore deeper into the district, you’ll discover everything from vintage clothing stores to cutting-edge streetwear boutiques.
Ximending truly comes alive at night when the lights, energy, and crowds reach their peak. Street performers entertain passersby, pop-up food stalls appear, and the entire area transforms into a buzzing night market atmosphere.
For a more authentic, less touristy experience, head to Chifeng Street in Zhongshan District. This creative alley feels like stepping into a Studio Ghibli film, with its mix of vintage shops, specialty coffee bars, and artistic boutiques.
Browse SNAPPP Camera Shop for vintage film cameras and develop your photos on-site. Visit the homeware shop that hides a charming cafe upstairs, where you can sip matcha lemonade while admiring your newly purchased ceramic bowls and chopsticks.
Coffee Dumbo serves exceptional specialty coffee with retro vibes, perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up. Nearby, you’ll find Japanese dango shops, authentic noodle joints, and thrift stores selling everything from vintage clothing to repurposed auto parts.
The entrepreneurial, creative spirit of Chifeng Street represents a different side of Taipei, one where local artisans and small business owners craft their own unique spaces. It’s far less crowded than major tourist areas, offering a more intimate glimpse into Taipei’s contemporary creative culture.
Discover Nature at Yangmingshan National Park
When you need an escape from urban life, Yangmingshan National Park offers some of the best things to do in Taipei for nature lovers, all within an hour of the city center.
This volcanic national park encompasses multiple peaks, hot springs, hiking trails, and stunning landscapes. The park’s unique volcanic features include steaming vents, sulfur deposits, and naturally occurring hot springs.
Hiking trails range from easy walks to challenging mountain climbs. The multi-peak trail at Datunshan (Mt. Datun) offers some of the most spectacular views in the area. On clear days, you can see across the entire Taipei Basin, with the ocean visible in the distance.
The park bursts with color during different seasons. Spring brings cherry blossoms and azaleas, while autumn offers cooler temperatures and clearer skies perfect for hiking. Even summer, despite the heat, showcases lush greenery thanks to frequent rainfall.
Several trails include public foot-bath areas where you can soak your tired feet in naturally heated spring water. These small pools are free to use and provide wonderful relief after a long hike.
Getting to Yangmingshan is easiest by bus from various MRT stations, though the schedules can be infrequent. Alternatively, join an organized tour that handles transportation and provides a knowledgeable guide. Some tours combine Yangmingshan with nearby Beitou Hot Springs for a full day of nature and relaxation.
Pack layers, as mountain weather can change quickly. Bring water, snacks, and rain gear regardless of the forecast. The park is beautiful year-round but can be crowded during cherry blossom season.
Soak in Beitou’s Historic Hot Springs
The Beitou district offers one of the most relaxing things to do in Taipei, combining natural hot springs with cultural heritage just 30 minutes from downtown.
Beitou’s hot spring culture dates back over a century to the Japanese colonial period. Today, you can choose from public bathhouses, private spas, or luxury resort experiences.
The star attraction is Thermal Valley (also known as Hell Valley), where naturally occurring sulfuric hot springs create an otherworldly scene. Steam rises dramatically from the turquoise water, and the temperature reaches nearly boiling. Wooden walkways allow you to safely explore this geothermal wonder.
Note that Thermal Valley was closed for renovations in early 2025 but is scheduled to reopen in February 2026. Once reopened, it will once again be accessible for viewing this unique natural phenomenon.
For actual soaking, numerous options exist. Public bathhouses offer the most affordable experience, typically costing a few hundred TWD for access to communal indoor and outdoor pools. Private spa rooms provide more intimate experiences for couples or families.
For ultimate luxury, the five-star Grand View Resort Beitou features rooms with private hot spring baths and spectacular mountain views. While expensive, the experience is unforgettable.
The Beitou Hot Springs Museum provides fascinating history about the area’s development and hot spring culture. Housed in a beautiful historical building, admission is free, making it an excellent complement to your soaking experience.
Beitou Park surrounds the hot spring area with walking paths, a creek, and peaceful scenery. The entire district has a more relaxed, resort-town feel compared to downtown Taipei.
Enjoy Taipei’s Bubble Tea Culture
As the birthplace of bubble tea, experiencing this beloved beverage is undoubtedly one of the most fun things to do in Taipei. What started in Taiwan in the 1980s has become a global phenomenon, but tasting it in its homeland offers something special.
Bubble tea shops appear on virtually every corner in Taipei. The variety is staggering: black tea, green tea, oolong tea, fruit teas, milk teas, cheese foam teas, and countless creative variations. Toppings go far beyond the classic tapioca pearls to include pudding, grass jelly, aloe vera, red beans, and popping boba.
Chun Shui Tang in Taichung claims to be bubble tea’s birthplace, but Taipei offers numerous excellent options. MACU Tea specializes in fruit teas, with their Orange Green Tea being particularly refreshing. KEBUKE Tea Co is known for their Peach Black Tea and classic Bubble Milk Tea with perfect pearl texture.
TRUEDAN has mastered brown sugar bubble tea, where the pearls are caramelized in brown sugar, creating a beautiful striped effect in the cup. 50 Lan (FIFTYLAN) is one of the oldest chains and remains popular for their Golden Oolong Milk Tea.
When ordering, customize your sugar and ice levels. Standard drinks in Taiwan are significantly sweeter than Western versions, so requesting “less sugar” or “half sugar” is common even among locals.
Prices are incredibly affordable, often cheaper than bottled water. Most drinks cost between 50-100 TWD (£1.50-£3), making it easy to try multiple varieties during your visit.
Pro tip: convenience stores like FamilyMart sell bottled versions of popular drinks, including unique flavors like taro milk tea, perfect for a quick refresher while exploring.
Explore Taipei’s Hidden Speakeasy Bars
As evening falls, Taipei’s nightlife scene reveals another dimension of things to do in Taipei, with hidden speakeasies and craft cocktail bars offering sophisticated entertainment.
HANKO 60 stands out as one of the most unique experiences. This hidden speakeasy sits behind an unremarkable grey door. Press the buzzer, and the entire wall swings open to reveal a moody, red-lit bar inspired by Taiwanese culture and history.
The bartenders craft stunning cocktails using local ingredients, presenting drinks in unexpected vessels: fine china vases, Japanese soda bottles, and even decorative skull heads. Dry ice smoke and theatrical presentation make each drink an experience beyond just taste.
Alchemy is consistently rated among Taipei’s best speakeasy-style bars, serving prohibition-inspired cocktails in an intimate setting. Antique Bar 1900 occupies a heritage building on historic Dihua Street, blending old-world atmosphere with modern mixology.
For a truly local experience, Zao Ka near Raohe Night Market offers a predominantly Mandarin menu and attracts mostly Taiwanese patrons. The atmosphere feels more authentic and less polished than tourist-focused bars.
AHA Saloon earned recognition as one of Asia’s best bars, currently ranked 24th. Reservations are essential, and there’s a minimum consumption requirement per guest that increases on weekends. The cocktails justify the premium, showcasing creative techniques and unique flavors.
Many of these bars open only in the evening, typically from 7 PM or later. Dress codes are generally smart-casual. Prices reflect the quality and craftsmanship, with cocktails typically ranging from 300-600 TWD (£8-£16).
Bar-hopping through Taipei’s speakeasy scene offers a sophisticated way to experience the city’s creative beverage culture and makes for memorable evenings after busy days of sightseeing.
Visit the National Palace Museum
Culture and history enthusiasts will find the National Palace Museum among the most enriching things to do in Taipei. This world-class institution houses one of the largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts and artworks spanning 5,000 years of history.
The museum’s collection originally came from Beijing’s Forbidden City. When the Chinese civil war ended in 1949, these priceless treasures were transported to Taiwan for safekeeping, where they’ve remained ever since.
With nearly 700,000 artifacts in the collection, you could never see everything in one visit. The museum thoughtfully organizes exhibits thematically, making it easier to focus on your interests whether that’s jade carvings, ancient ceramics, calligraphy, or historical documents.
The most famous pieces include the Jadeite Cabbage, an incredibly realistic cabbage carved from a single piece of jade, and the Meat-Shaped Stone, which looks remarkably like a piece of braised pork belly. These quirky treasures have become iconic symbols of the museum.
Beyond these crowd-pleasers, the Chinese painting galleries showcase breathtaking scrolls, the bronze galleries display ancient ritual vessels, and the jade galleries demonstrate the material’s importance in Chinese culture and spirituality.
English descriptions throughout the museum are excellent, providing context and storytelling that brings the artifacts to life. Audio guides are available for deeper insights.
Plan to spend at least two to three hours here, though art enthusiasts could easily fill an entire day. The museum is located in the northern Shilin district, accessible via MRT to Jiannan Road Station followed by a bus ride.
The adjacent Zhishan Park offers beautiful gardens and walking paths, perfect for reflecting on what you’ve seen or enjoying a peaceful break.
Experience Traditional Tea Ceremony Culture
Tea culture runs deep in Taiwan, and participating in a traditional tea ceremony ranks among the most authentic things to do in Taipei for those seeking cultural immersion.
High-mountain oolong tea is Taiwan’s most famous variety, grown at high elevations where cool temperatures and mountain mist create ideal growing conditions. The resulting tea has a delicate, complex flavor that unfolds over multiple infusions.
Maokong village, accessible via the gondola, offers numerous teahouses where you can experience formal tea service. Your host will guide you through the ritual: warming the cups, appreciating the dry leaves’ aroma, watching them unfurl in hot water, and properly tasting each infusion.
Traditional tea ceremonies follow specific steps and use specialized equipment: a small teapot, small cups, a tea boat to catch overflow, and tools for handling the leaves. The process is meditative, encouraging you to slow down and fully appreciate each moment.
In Jiufen, the famous A-Mei Teahouse provides tea ceremony experiences with stunning mountain views. The multi-level traditional building creates an atmospheric setting, and you can purchase high-quality local tea to take home.
For a more educational approach, join a tea plantation tour that visits working farms. You’ll see tea growing on hillsides, learn about processing methods, and taste various types while understanding what distinguishes high-quality tea.
Jing Sheng Yu in Taipei offers high-mountain tea tasting in a more urban setting, perfect if you can’t make it to the mountain plantations.
The beauty of tea ceremony experiences is how they connect you to centuries of tradition while creating a peaceful pause in your busy travel schedule. The ritualistic aspects and quiet focus provide a counterpoint to Taipei’s bustling energy.
Additional Experiences for Extended Visits
If you have extra time beyond the essential things to do in Taipei, these additional experiences showcase other fascinating aspects of the city.
Join a cooking class to learn how to make xiaolongbao, beef noodle soup, and bubble tea under the guidance of local chefs. Hands-on cooking experiences teach you techniques you can recreate at home while providing insight into Taiwanese culinary traditions.
Attend a local baseball game at Xinzhuang Baseball Stadium to watch the Fubon Guardians or other Taiwanese teams. Baseball is hugely popular in Taiwan, and games feature enthusiastic crowds, organized cheering sections, and an electric atmosphere. Tickets cost around 500 TWD (£15), making it affordable entertainment.
Visit the Taipei Fine Arts Museum for contemporary and modern art exhibitions that constantly rotate. With tickets costing only around 30 TWD (£0.75), it’s an incredibly affordable cultural experience. The nearby Yuanshan Park provides pleasant walking paths.
Experience a scalp spa treatment, a Japanese-influenced wellness practice that combines deep scalp cleansing with massage and treatments. Innovate Scalp Care offers these services, and while they speak limited English, Google Translate bridges the gap. Treatments cost significantly less than similar services in Western countries.
Shop at Don Don Donki, a quirky Japanese discount store spanning multiple floors. Open 24 hours, this maze-like shop sells everything from groceries to cosmetics, alcohol to electronics, all with eye-catching displays and unexpected discoveries around every corner.
The Red House in Ximending hosts a creative market where local artists and designers sell unique crafts, handmade goods, and original artwork. The 110-year-old octagonal building itself is architecturally interesting, and the market is especially lively on weekends.
For a unique animal encounter, David & Alpaca cafe near Beitou lets you interact with these adorable creatures while enjoying refreshments. It’s about 30 minutes from central Taipei, making it easy to combine with a hot springs visit.
Practical Tips for Visiting Taipei
Understanding a few practical details will help you maximize your enjoyment of all the things to do in Taipei.
Transportation is incredibly efficient. The MRT system is clean, affordable, and easy to navigate with English signage throughout. Purchase an EasyCard at any MRT station or the airport to enjoy discounted fares and seamless transfers. The card works on all public transport and even in many convenience stores.
Taipei is one of the safest cities in the world. Solo travelers, including women, will feel comfortable exploring day and night. Crime rates are extremely low, and locals are generally helpful and friendly toward tourists.
The weather is subtropical with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Rain is common year-round, so always carry an umbrella. Many MRT stations have umbrella rental stands where you can borrow one for a small deposit. The best weather typically occurs in spring (March-May) and fall (September-November).
Most major tourist areas have English signage and English-speaking staff. Google Translate helps in situations where language becomes a barrier, particularly in more local restaurants or markets. Don’t let language concerns prevent you from exploring off the beaten path.
Cash remains widely used, especially at night markets and smaller establishments. Credit cards work at hotels, department stores, and larger restaurants. ATMs are plentiful, and exchange rates are generally fair.
Taiwan is remarkably LGBTQ+ friendly, being the first Asian country to legalize same-sex marriage. Rainbow crosswalks and Pride flags throughout Ximending celebrate this inclusivity, and the annual Taipei Pride Parade is one of Asia’s largest.
Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart are everywhere and serve as much more than just shops. You can top up your EasyCard, use ATMs, send packages, buy concert tickets, and find surprisingly good ready-to-eat meals. Tea eggs, onigiri, and warm soy milk make perfect quick snacks.
Four days provides enough time to cover the major highlights and take a day trip or two. However, you could easily spend a week or more fully exploring all the neighborhoods, museums, hiking trails, and culinary experiences Taipei offers.
Planning Your Perfect Taipei Adventure
Taipei seamlessly blends ancient traditions with cutting-edge modernity, creating a destination that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a foodie eager to sample every night market delicacy, an outdoor enthusiast ready to hike volcanic peaks, or a culture lover drawn to temples and museums, the city welcomes you with open arms.
The things to do in Taipei extend far beyond this guide. Every neighborhood reveals new discoveries, every meal introduces unexpected flavors, and every interaction with locals provides insight into Taiwanese warmth and hospitality.
From watching the sunset from Elephant Mountain to releasing sky lanterns in Shifen, from savoring soup dumplings at Din Tai Fung to soaking in Beitou’s hot springs, each experience adds another layer to your understanding and appreciation of this remarkable city.
Start planning your Taipei adventure today, and prepare for a destination that will exceed your expectations and leave you already planning your return visit before you’ve even left. Taiwan’s capital has a way of capturing hearts, and once you’ve experienced the magic of the best things to do in Taipei, you’ll understand why travelers consistently rank it among Asia’s most beloved cities.
Conclusion
Taipei is a city full of energy, flavor, and culture. It mixes old temples, busy markets, tall towers, and quiet tea houses in a beautiful way. Every corner has something to see or taste.
Whether you love food, nature, history, or shopping, Taipei gives you a lot to enjoy. You can hike at sunset, eat at night markets, or relax in a hot spring all in one trip. The city feels safe, friendly, and easy to explore.
After visiting Taipei once, many people want to return again. The mix of modern life and tradition makes it special. If you are planning your trip, get ready Taipei will surprise you in the best way.
FAQs
1) Is Taipei safe for tourists and solo travelers?
Yes, Taipei is known as one of the safest cities. Solo travelers, including women, feel comfortable exploring day and night.
2) How many days do I need to enjoy Taipei properly?
4 days is enough for main highlights, but 5–7 days is better if you want to add day trips like Jiufen or Shifen.
3) Do people speak English in Taipei?
In tourist areas, MRT stations, and many restaurants, yes. In local areas, there is less English, but people are helpful and Google Translate works well.
4) What is the best time to visit Taipei?
Spring (March–May) and Autumn (Sept–Nov) have the best weather. Summers are hot and humid, winters are mild with some rain.
5) Is the MRT easy to use for visitors?
Yes, it is clean, cheap, and has English signs everywhere. Just buy an EasyCard and you can travel without worry.
