The 20+ Best Things to do in Taipei, Taiwan

We just returned from an incredible journey through Taiwan’s vibrant capital, and it absolutely captivated us. To commemorate, here are the best things to do around the city of Taipei!

As someone who’s explored countless cities worldwide, Taipei genuinely surprised me with its perfect blend of traditional culture and modern innovation. This city isn’t just another Asian metropolis- it’s a sensory adventure waiting to unfold!

Planning Your Taipei Adventure 📅

The best time to experience Taipei’s magic is during autumn (September-November) and spring (March-May). Summer months can be intensely humid, while winter offers mild temperatures perfect for exploring. Trust me, timing makes all the difference for your comfort level!

Public transportation in Taipei is phenomenally efficient. The MRT system connects every major attraction seamlessly. From Taoyuan International Airport, the Airport MRT whisks you to Taipei Main Station in just 35 minutes. Grab an EasyCard – it’s your golden ticket to stress-free city exploration!

Now, let’s dive into the absolute best things that make Taipei extraordinary!

1. Raohe Night Market – Michelin Quality Street Food 🍗

Raohe Street Night Market is the most famous night market in Taiwan right now- and for good reason! The atmosphere, the smells, the plenty different kinds of street food being sold up and down the street.. it’s a dizzyingly wonderful experience.

Some vendors got awards from Michelin Bib Gourmand for how good their goods are! The Fuzhou pepper bun, especially, is a must-try. Learn more about what food to try and avoid at this busy night market.

Must-try food:

• Fuzhou pepper bun – juicy beef filling inside tandoor-baked crispy buns!
• Taiwanese fried chicken (trust me, it’s next level!)
• Lu rou fan

2. Shilin Night Market

Shilin Night Market stands as Taiwan’s most legendary culinary playground, and is a must-go if you stay around the area. This isn’t just about food (though the food is incredible) – it’s about experiencing Taipei’s authentic social fabric.

The energy here is absolutely electric. Street vendors call out their specialties while families gather around steaming bowls of beef noodle soup. Street performers entertain crowds between the maze of food stalls. The aroma of stinky tofu mingles with sweet bubble tea, creating an unforgettable experience.

Must-try experiences:

• Fresh oyster omelets (melt in your mouth!)
• Taiwanese sausage wrapped in sticky rice – texture heaven
• Games and carnival atmosphere

Pro tip: Visit during early evening (around 6 PM) for the best selection before crowds peak. The atmosphere becomes even more magical as bright lights illuminate the bustling streets!

3. National Palace Museum: Cultural Treasure Trove 🏛️

This museum houses the world’s finest collection of Chinese art and artifacts spanning over 8,000 years. What makes this place extraordinary isn’t just the sheer volume- it’s the incredible stories behind each piece.

The famous meat-shaped stone looks so realistic you’ll question whether it’s actually food! The intricate jade cabbage carving demonstrates craftsmanship that seems almost impossible. Each gallery reveals layers of Chinese history that bring ancient civilizations to life.

Insider experience: The audio guide transforms your visit from casual browsing to deep cultural immersion. Plan at least 3-4 hours to properly appreciate the major collections. The museum shop offers unique souvenirs that actually reflect the artistry you’ve just witnessed.

Best visiting strategy: Arrive early morning to avoid tour groups and enjoy quieter galleries for photography and contemplation.

4. Beitou Hot Springs: Natural Relaxation Paradise ♨️

Beitou Hot Springs offers the perfect escape from city exploration fatigue. This isn’t just about soaking in warm water – it’s about experiencing Taiwan’s volcanic geography while unwinding completely.

The area feels like stepping into a different world entirely. Steam rises from natural springs while traditional Japanese-style bath houses maintain centuries-old relaxation traditions. The mineral-rich waters are believed to have therapeutic properties that locals swear by.

Complete Beitou experience:

• Public hot spring parks for budget-conscious travelers
• Luxury resort spas for ultimate pampering
• Hot spring eggs cooked in natural thermal waters (surprisingly delicious!)
• Beautiful walking trails connecting different spring areas

The short walk from Beitou MRT station takes you through charming neighborhoods where hot spring culture thrives daily.

5. Taipei 101 Skyscraper 🏗️

Taipei 101 dominated the world’s tallest building title for years, and its observation deck still delivers breathtaking panoramic views that justify every penny spent.

The high-speed elevator journey to the 89th floor feels like launching into space! The engineering marvel of this skyscraper becomes apparent as you learn about its typhoon-resistant design and earthquake-proof construction during your visit.

Photographers’ paradise:

• Golden hour sunset views paint the entire city in warm hues
• Night cityscape photography captures Taipei’s neon-lit energy
• Clear day visibility extends to surrounding mountains and coastline

Dining upgrade: The lower floors house incredible restaurants where you can extend your sky-high experience with world-class cuisine while maintaining those spectacular views.

6. Huashan 1914 Creative Park 🎨

Huashan 1914 Creative Park transforms abandoned industrial spaces into vibrant cultural destinations. This former distillery now buzzes with contemporary art exhibitions, aesthetic pop-ups, cute shops, and creative workshops.

The adaptive reuse concept here is absolutely brilliant. Historic brick buildings house cutting-edge galleries while maintaining their industrial character. Pop-up shops show emerging Taiwanese designers alongside established international brands. When I went there, I say Snoopy slurping bubble teas, Esther the pink bunny, and even Chanel Beauty!

Creative exploration highlights:

• Rotating art exhibitions featuring both local and international artists (a lot of them are free!)
• Design boutiques selling unique Taiwanese crafts and design (so unique, tbh)
• Live music venues hosting everything from indie bands to experimental performances
• Artisan food vendors

Weekend bonus: Special events and markets often take over outdoor spaces, creating festival-like atmospheres perfect for discovering new talents.

7. Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall: Historical Grandeur 🏛️

This imposing memorial complex commands respect through sheer architectural scale and historical significance. The massive white structure honors Taiwan’s former president while serving as a powerful symbol of the island’s complex political history.

The changing of the guard ceremony happens hourly and demonstrates precision that’s almost mesmerizing to witness. The ceremony’s choreography reflects military tradition while tourists from worldwide gather to observe this formal ritual.

Surrounding highlights:

• Peace Memorial Park offers expansive green spaces perfect for picnicking
• Traditional Chinese gardens provide peaceful walking paths
• Cultural performances often take place in the main plaza
• Museum sections detail Taiwan’s modern political development

The scale of this memorial becomes truly apparent when you climb the steps and realize how the structure dominates central Taipei’s skyline.

8. Din Tai Fung 🍜

Taipei’s food scene extends far beyond night markets into neighborhoods where locals gather for authentic regional specialties. Yongkang Street has become synonymous with Taiwan’s best traditional foods served in family-run establishments.

Din Tai Fung originated here, revolutionizing xiao long bao (soup dumplings) preparation and presentation. The original location maintains the authentic atmosphere that made this restaurant internationally famous.

This restaurant started as a cooking oil retailer in the 1950s. When business went south, they pivoted to making soup dumplings and accidentally created one of the world’s most famous restaurant chains. Talk about a successful career change!

Did you know?

• Each dumpling has exactly 18 pleats (yes, they count)
• Perfect weight: 21 grams
• Skin thickness: 2mm
• Temperature when served: Molten lava hot (proceed with caution!)

First-Timer’s Essential Order

1. Original Pork Xiaolongbao: The OG that started it all
2. Pork & Crab Xiaolongbao: For when you’re feeling fancy
3. Chicken Soup: Trust me, you’ll need something to cool your burned tongue
4. Pork Chop Fried Rice: Because you came to Taiwan to carb-load properly

Reality Check ⚠️ : Unless you’re dining at 3 PM on a Tuesday (and even then…), you’re going to wait. Peak times can mean 45+ minute waits, but here’s how to make it bearable:

• Get a number early and explore nearby shops
• Download a translation app for menu adventures
• Come hungry but not hangry – patience is key
• Bring entertainment – dumpling-watching gets old after 20 minutes

9. Jiufen (Day Trip) 🚂

Jiufen Old Street transports visitors into Taiwan’s gold mining history while offering spectacular coastal mountain views. This former mining town is very similar to Studio Ghibli’s “Spirited Away” settings, and the scenery at night is absolutely magical!

The narrow mountain paths wind between traditional tea houses where you can sip local teas while overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Street food vendors serve unique mountain specialties that differ significantly from city offerings. Like the peanut cilantro ice cream roll omg?!

Transportation adventure: Local trains from Taipei Main Station make day trips incredibly accessible. The journey itself becomes part of the experience as trains wind through Taiwan’s diverse landscapes.

10. Shifen (Day Trip) 🏮

Picture this: hundreds of colorful paper lanterns floating into the sky like a scene from Tangled, except this magical moment happens every single day in Shifen. Shifen is a popular day trip destination and can be visited right after Jiufen. It is where you can fly colorful wishing lanterns with your loved ones!

This charming old railway town has mastered the art of making dreams feel tangible.

The Main Event: Sky Lantern Festival ✨You’ll write your wishes on a giant paper lantern, light it up, and watch it drift away into the cosmos. It’s surprisingly emotional – grown adults get teary-eyed watching their hopes float toward the mountains. Just don’t wish for anything too specific about your ex… the whole town will see it written on your lantern!

Don’t Miss:

• Shifen Waterfall: Taiwan’s “Niagara Falls” (okay, it’s smaller, but equally stunning)
• Old Railway Tracks: Walk right down the middle – trains still run here, but infrequently
• Traditional Street Food: Try the peanut ice cream rolls that look like tiny burritos

Insider Secret: 🤫 Visit on weekdays if possible. Weekends turn this peaceful town into a crowded human sardine can, especially during festival seasons. Not just another one on a list of things to do, plan your visit carefully.

11. Hiking at Elephant Mountain 📸

Elephant Mountain (Maps) provides the classic Taipei 101 skyline shot that graces countless Instagram feeds, but the hiking experience offers much more than photography opportunities.

The trail challenges your fitness level while rewarding effort with increasingly spectacular city views. Hiking trails are well-maintained and clearly marked, making this accessible for most fitness levels.

Photography timing tips:

• Late afternoon light creates golden hour magic for cityscape photography
• Blue hour (just after sunset) balances city lights with sky colors perfectly
• Clear mornings offer mountain backdrop visibility extending to Taiwan’s central peaks

Alternative viewpoints:

• Maokong Gondola provides aerial perspectives during a comfortable cable car journey
• Various temple locations offer elevated positions without strenuous hiking
• Riverside parks showcase different angles of the city’s relationship with nature

12. Traditional Markets and Old Streets 🥮

Dihua Street represents Taipei’s oldest commercial district, where traditional shops sell everything from dried seafood to Chinese medicinal herbs. This street maintains authentic character despite surrounding urban modernization.

The architecture here reflects different historical periods as traditional shophouses display their wares using methods unchanged for generations. Street vendors prepare traditional snacks using family recipes passed down through decades.

Cultural immersion opportunities:

• Traditional tea shops where masters demonstrate proper brewing techniques
• Fabric stores selling materials for traditional Chinese clothing
• Spice merchants explaining medicinal properties of various herbs
• Old streets atmosphere that transports visitors into previous centuries

Qing Dynasty architectural elements remain visible throughout the district, creating living history lessons as you explore each block.

13. Yehliu Geopark: Sculpted by Mother Nature 🗿

Ever seen rocks that look like they belong in a modern art museum? Yehliu Geopark showcases bizarre rock formations carved by millions of years of wind and waves. This it not just another things to do or visit, Yehliu is a true natural wonder.

The star of the show is the Queen’s Head 👑!

This iconic rock formation looks exactly like an elegant queen in profile – complete with a perfectly sculpted hairdo that would make any salon jealous. Fair warning though: she’s literally a once-in-a-lifetime sight since erosion is slowly wearing her away. Scientists estimate she’s got maybe 20-30 years left before she loses her royal crown!

What Makes This Place Special:

• Bizarre honeycomb rocks that look like giant cheese graters
• Sea candles (tall, thin rock spires) reaching toward the sky
• Mushroom rocks that Disney’s set designers probably used for inspiration
• Ginger rocks that actually look like… well, ginger!

Pro Tips for Your Visit:

• Go early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting (and fewer crowds)
• Wear sturdy shoes – these rocks can be slippery
• Don’t climb on the formations (yes, people actually try this!)
• Budget 2-3 hours to properly explore

Getting There: Take a bus from Taipei Main Station to Jinshan, then transfer to a local bus. It’s about a 1.5-hour journey, but totally worth the trek!

14. Yangmingshan National Park

Yangmingshan National Park is famous for its rotation of beautiful flowers throughout the year. It is situated on the north of Taipei, and the weather is cooler compared to the capital city. Each season, the blooming flowers are renewed and lush fluffy green grass welcome visitors.

Hiking trails, hot springs, and volcanic fumaroles spewing fumes are iconic features of the area. It is remarkable how close Taipei is to a dormant volcano! It reminds a little of Yellowstone National Park in the United States.

Highlights of Yangmingshan Flower Seasons:

• Yangmingshan Flower Festival: February – March
• Calla Lily Festival: March – May
• Hydrangea Festival: May – June
• Camellia: January – March
• Yoshino Cherry Blossom: March – April

15. Ximending District 🌈

Welcome to Taipei’s answer to colorful, international district- Ximending is where neon signs go to multiply, where street food reaches legendary status, and where you’ll question everything you thought you knew about organized chaos. There are many, many things to do here, so you have to be strategic!

This pedestrian-only zone is basically Taiwan’s version of controlled pandemonium- and somehow it all just works. We shopped, tasted a LOT of food and snacks, and souvenir shopped ’til we dropped. Spend at least half a day to hit all the good places in this area.

Can’t-Miss Eats That’ll Haunt Your Dreams:

• Ah-Zong Mee Sua (阿宗麵線): Vermicelli soup that locals line up for (yes, it’s that good)
• Xing Fu Tang: Legendary brown sugar bubble tea with a burnt sugar top!
• Crispy Milk Donut: Prepare to queue for this viral treat! These crispy fried rings are dusted with milk powder, and it’s not too oily nor sweet at all- just perfect.

The Shopping Districts Within the District:

• The Red House: Full of individual artisan stalls selling original souvenirs, clothes, jewelry, and everything cute.
• Wuchang Street: Pop culture merchandise that’ll bankrupt any anime fan
• Hanzhong Street: Vintage finds and local designer pieces
• Kunming Street: Beauty products that’ll make K-beauty fans cry from joy

15. Longshan Temple 🛕

Longshan Temple stands among Taipei’s oldest temples, maintaining active worship practices while welcoming curious visitors. The intricate wood carvings and architectural details demonstrate traditional craftsmanship at its finest.

The temple atmosphere buzzes with authentic spiritual energy as locals pray, burn incense, and participate in traditional ceremonies. Street performers sometimes gather outside, adding cultural entertainment to your temple visit.

Spiritual experience highlights:

• Traditional fortune-telling practices that locals trust for major life decisions
• Architectural photography heaven for traditional Chinese design elements
• Peaceful meditation spaces within busy urban environments

Reminder ⚠️: Dress modestly and observe local customs while exploring these active places of worship.

15. Taipei Zoo 🐘

Taipei Zoo offers more than animal viewing – it’s a comprehensive natural education experience showcasing Taiwan’s biodiversity alongside international species.

The zoo’s design integrates natural habitats with educational programs that highlight conservation efforts. Hiking trails within the zoo grounds connect different themed areas while providing exercise and fresh air.

Natural exploration benefits:

• Yangmingshan National Park accessibility via public transportation
• Urban park systems that provide green space throughout the city
• Natural beauty preservation efforts visible throughout metropolitan areas
• Seasonal flower blooms that transform city landscapes throughout the year

The integration of natural spaces within urban planning demonstrates Taiwan’s environmental consciousness and quality of life priorities.

16. Shopping in Zhongshan District 🛍️

Zhongshan District combines international brands with local designers in shopping environments that reflect Taipei’s cosmopolitan character.

Convenience stores in Taiwan operate on completely different levels than elsewhere – they’re community hubs offering services from bill payments to fresh meals, creating fascinating cultural observations for visitors.

Shopping diversity highlights:

• Local designer boutiques showcasing emerging Taiwanese fashion talent
• Traditional craft shops where artisans demonstrate techniques passed through generations
• Modern shopping centers integrating entertainment, dining, and retail experiences
• Pop-up shops that change frequently, keeping shopping districts dynamic and interesting

Cultural shopping tip: Bargaining isn’t common in most Taipei retail situations, but building relationships with shop owners often leads to insider knowledge about special items or upcoming sales.

17. Local Experiences and Cultural Things to Do 👥

Free walking tours provide insider perspectives that independent exploration often misses. Local guides share stories, history, and cultural context that transform simple sightseeing into meaningful cultural exchange.

First-time visitors benefit enormously from guided experiences that reveal hidden gems and explain cultural nuances that might otherwise be overlooked.

Cultural immersion opportunities:

• Audio guides at major attractions provide detailed historical context
• Language exchange meetups where locals practice English while teaching Mandarin basics
• Cooking classes focusing on traditional Taiwanese recipes and techniques
• Free Taiwan travel planning groups online provide real-time advice from experienced travelers

Social tip: Taiwanese people are generally friendly and helpful – don’t hesitate to ask for directions or recommendations when exploring neighborhoods.

18. The First Bubble Tea: Chun Shui Tang 🧋

Birthplace of bubble tea status means Taipei offers the most authentic and innovative boba experiences globally. Every neighborhood features tea shops experimenting with new flavors, textures, and presentation styles.

Chun Shui Tang is a legendary level establishment that started a global drink trend: boba or bubble tea! Each milk tea is shaken by hand, and sweetened with caution of the Asian dessert wisdom: not too sweet. Learn more about this old school boba legend.

Foodie pro tip: Always have backup plans – popular spots often sell out, and weather can affect outdoor food stall operations.

19. National Taiwan Museum

Ever wanted to time-travel through Taiwan’s history without actually dealing with the whole “no indoor plumbing” situation of ancient times? Welcome to the National Taiwan Museum, where you can explore 17,000 years of Taiwanese culture while enjoying air conditioning.

Let’s address the elephant in the room: museums can be intimidating, especially when you’re jet-lagged and the descriptions are in Traditional Chinese characters that look like beautiful, incomprehensible art to most Western eyes. This place is designed for culture-curious travelers who want to understand Taiwan beyond night markets and bubble tea.

20. Dadaocheng

Here’s the thing about Dadaocheng – it’s basically Jekyll and Hyde, but in the best possible way. Monday through Friday, it’s a sleepy historic district where older shop owners sell dried mushrooms and herbal remedies to locals. But come Saturday and Sunday? BAM! The whole area transforms into this buzzing cultural festival with pop-up markets, street performances, and food stalls.

The riverside promenade comes alive with families flying kites, couples taking sunset photos, and vendors selling everything from handmade soaps to vintage vinyl records.

Pro tip: Grab some craft beer from one of the trendy breweries and find a spot along the wharf to watch the sun set over the Tamsui River- it’s free entertainment that beats any overpriced tourist trap!

21. Hidden Gems and Local Favorites 💎

Popular destinations attract crowds for good reasons, but Taipei’s best places often exist in neighborhoods where tourists rarely venture.

Recent trips by experienced travelers consistently highlight discoveries in residential areas where authentic local life continues unchanged by tourism pressures.

Local favorite highlights:

• Neighborhood breakfast shops where regulars gather for traditional morning meals (maybe I should write about them.. Taiwanese breakfast is life-changing!!)
• Regional noodle specialists preparing hand-pulled noodles fresh throughout the day
• Small temples where local communities maintain centuries-old traditions
• Short walks from major attractions often reveal completely different neighborhood characters
• Favorite things according to locals frequently involve simple pleasures like specific bakeries or tea shops

Exploration strategy: Allow time for wandering without specific destinations – some of Taipei’s most memorable experiences happen through spontaneous discoveries.

Pro Tip: Michelin Guide recognition has elevated many local establishments, but the best discoveries often happen in unmarked neighborhood spots where families have perfected recipes across generations. If it’s an old restaurant only selling one or two types of things- that’s when you know they’re good good.

Transportation Tips and Getting Around 🚊

Taipei’s MRT system deserves recognition as one of Asia’s most efficient urban transportation networks. The Blue Line connects major attractions seamlessly while maintaining impressive punctuality and cleanliness standards.

Taoyuan Airport MRT integration means international travelers can reach city center without taxi complications or bus transfers. The system’s English signage and announcements make navigation stress-free for international visitors.

Walking distance between attractions is often shorter than expected – Taipei’s compact city center design makes multiple stops per day entirely feasible.

Transportation efficiency tips:

• Google Maps public transportation directions are highly accurate for Taipei
• EasyCard or iPASS payment integration works across buses, trains, and even convenience stores
• Rush hour (7-9 AM and 5-7 PM) increases train frequency but also crowds
• Stations connect directly to major shopping centers and attractions
• Much time can be saved by understanding transfer stations and route planning
• Night bus services extend public transportation beyond MRT operating hours

Accessibility note: Most major attractions are accessible via public transportation, making car rental unnecessary for typical tourist itineraries.

Seasonal Activities and Weather Considerations 🌤️

Summer heat requires strategic planning, but it also brings unique experiences like outdoor night markets extending later and increased festival activities.

Hot day strategies include starting early, seeking air-conditioned attractions during peak temperatures, and timing outdoor activities for early evening when temperatures become comfortable.

Seasonal advantages:

• Spring brings flower blooms to city parks and surrounding mountains
• Summer extends night market hours and increases street food variety
• Autumn provides perfect hiking weather and clear mountain views
• Winter offers comfortable temperatures for extensive walking exploration

Weather preparation: Pack layers regardless of season, as air conditioning can be intense indoors while outdoor humidity requires different clothing strategies.

Final Thoughts: Your Taipei Adventure Awaits! 🌟

Great spots throughout Taipei reward visitors who approach the city with curiosity and openness to new experiences. This popular destination combines accessibility with authenticity in ways that make every traveler feel welcome.

Most fun things often involve simple pleasures: sharing meals with new friends, discovering unexpected art installations, or enjoying perfectly brewed tea while watching city life unfold around you.

My personal recommendations:

• Spend at least 4-5 days to properly explore major attractions without rushing
• Mix planned attractions with spontaneous neighborhood exploration
• Try foods that seem unusual – culinary adventures often create the best travel memories
• Learn basic Mandarin greetings – locals appreciate the effort enormously

Capital of Taiwan status means Taipei offers sophisticated urban amenities while maintaining traditional cultural roots. This great place deserves its reputation as one of Asia’s most livable and visitable cities.

Whether you’re seeking cultural immersion, culinary adventures, natural beauty, or modern urban experiences, Taipei delivers on every front. First day impressions consistently evolve into lasting appreciation for this remarkable city’s complexity and charm.

Pack your sense of adventure, bring your appetite, and prepare for a Taiwan experience that will definitely have you planning your return visit before you’ve even left! 🛫

Happy travels, and see you in Taipei! 🇹🇼✨