Visit Taipei, Taiwan: A Guide to Explore Taiwan’s Beauty
This Taiwan Travel Guide is for you if you are considering going to Taipei as your next destination? Yes! You know, I cannot even describe how amazing this city is, and I am literally shuddering with excitement imagining you having the first impression of it. Just imagine this: you are on a street and on either side of you are shining skyscrapers literally rising above these peaceful centuries-old temples.
And the next thing, you turn a corner and your brain just explodes with the smells of street-food sellers all over Newtown. I swear to you, Taipei will just pull you in and never release you. No offense, but whether you are talking about setting a backpack solo (such a hero of yours!), the entire family, a good study break, or a time to see something completely different, Taipei has got you covered. Believe me, this is a fact!
Why You’re Going to Fall Head Over Heels for Taipei
Know, then, this is the way with Taipei. It has got this fantastic rhythm of its very own. It is all active during the day, but when the sun sets? The night markets open up, and it is like everyone in the entire city turns into this bright, yummy paradise. And how about the seamless meeting of the new and the old here? You will be literally in a position to light incense at an ancient temple and then pick up bubble tea and gazing at Taipei 101. It’s wild! The food scene alone is worth the plane ticket (seriously, start saving room in your stomach now), and don’t even get me started on how easy it is to get around. The subway system is so clean and efficient. You’ll actually look forward to your commute! Here’s what I’m thinking for your trip:- If you’re a history nerd like me, you’re going to lose your mind over the temples and historic neighborhoods
- If you live for good food: Get ready for the best soup dumplings of your life (I’m not even exaggerating)
- If shopping is your therapy, Night markets plus fancy malls = a dangerous combination for your wallet
- If you need some nature time, Mountain trails and parks are literally a subway ride away!
Taiwan Travel Guide-The Places You Absolutely Cannot Miss
Taipei 101 (Obviously!)
I know it’s touristy, but come on, you can’t visit Taipei without going up Taipei 101! It is the tallest building in the world, and those elevators? They’re basically rocket ships. Go up to the 89th floor observation deck and prepare to have your mind blown. Pro tip from someone who learned the hard way: time your visit for sunset. Watching the city light up as day turns to night? Chef’s kiss. Pure magic.National Palace Museum
If you’re even slightly interested in history, you need to block out at least half a day for the National Palace Museum. We’re talking 700,000 treasures here: ancient jade, gorgeous porcelain, scrolls that are older than most countries. It’s like stepping through time!Elephant Mountain (Trust Me on This One)
Want that perfect Instagram shot of the city skyline? Elephant Mountain is your spot! Now, I won’t lie, it’s a bit of a climb and there are a lot of stairs, but oh my goodness, the view is so worth it. Just bring water and maybe some snacks because you’ll want to stay up there for a while.Longshan Temple
Longshan Temple is special, friend. It’s this beautiful temple that’s been standing strong through everything, and there’s something so peaceful about it. Even if you’re not religious, just sitting there and watching the locals pray and light incense. It’s this incredible window into the heart of Taiwanese culture.Yangmingshan National Park
Guess what? You can literally escape to nature without leaving the city! Yangmingshan National Park is a dream if you love hiking, and if you’re lucky enough to visit in spring, the cherry blossoms will make you cry happy tears. Plus, hot springs! Because apparently this place wasn’t perfect enough already.Dive Into the Real Taipei
Party with the Locals
If your trip happens to line up with the Lantern Festival or Dragon Boat Festival, drop everything and go! These festivals are absolutely incredible, and you’ll get to see Taiwan’s creativity and traditions in full swing. Plus, the energy is infectious!Night Markets Are Where the Magic Happens
Listen to me very carefully: the night markets aren’t just about shopping. They’re basically the heartbeat of Taipei’s social life. Shilin and Raohe are my favorites, the food, the energy, the people-watching, it’s all incredible. You’ll be shoulder-to-shoulder with locals and fellow travelers, and honestly, some of my best travel memories happened in these markets. Must-try foods (yes, I’m making you a list):- Stinky tofu (if you’re feeling brave and I mean really brave)
- Bubble tea (obviously!)
- Taiwanese fried chicken (life-changing)
- Oyster omelets (don’t knock it till you try it!)
Let’s Talk About the Food (My Favorite Topic!)
Okay, buckle up because the food scene in Taipei is absolutely insane in the best possible way. I’m talking dim sum, street food, fancy restaurants, literally everything your taste buds could ever want.The Holy Trinity of Taipei Food
- Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings): These little pockets of heaven have soup iside the dumpling. I know it sounds weird, but trust me. Din Tai Fung is the place everyone talks about, and for good reason.
- Beef Noodle Soup: This is comfort food that will warm your soul, rich, hearty, and exactly what you need after a long day of exploring.
- Pineapple Cake: Sweet, buttery, and perfect for bringing home to people (or just eating all yourself, no judgment here).
Shopping: From Night Markets to Luxury Malls
Night Markets
Yes, the food is incredible, but the shopping is pretty amazing too. You’ll find everything from trendy clothes to quirky gadgets to snacks for your hotel room. It’s chaotic in the best way possible.Ximending
This area is loud, colorful, and absolutely buzzing with energy. It’s where young Taiwanese come to shop, listen to music, and just be seen. Perfect for trend-spotting and people-watching.Fancy Shopping
If you want to treat yourself, Breeze Center and the shops in Taipei 101 have all the luxury brands you could want, plus blessed air conditioning!Where to Stay
Ximending: For the Night Owls
If you want to be in the thick of things, stay here. The energy is incredible, but fair warning, it can get pretty lively at night!- Budget: Meander Taipei Hostel (great for meeting people)
- Mid-range: Amba Taipei Ximending (right in the center of everything)
- Luxury: Hotel Papa Whale (absolutely gorgeous)
Da’an District: Perfect for Families
This area is way more chill, close to a beautiful park, and still super convenient. If you’re traveling with kids, this is your spot.- Budget: GoodMore Hotel
- Mid-range: Rido Hotel
- Luxury: Shangri-La’s Far Eastern Plaza Hotel
Zhongshan: Food Lover’s Paradise
Stay here if you want to eat your way through Taipei (which, honestly, should be everyone’s goal). Cafes, noodle shops, dessert places, it’s all here.- Budget: CheapSleep Hostel
- Mid-range: The Tango Hotel
- Luxury: Hotel Royal-Nikko Taipei
Beitou: Your Hot Spring Retreat
Want to soak in natural hot springs? This is your neighborhood. It’s like having a spa vacation within your city vacation.- Budget: Beitou Hot Spring Resort
- Luxury: Grand View Resort Beitou
Taipei Main Station: For the Practical Planners
Perfect if you want easy access to trains and the airport, or if you’re planning day trips outside the city.- Mid-range: Diary of Taipei Hotel
- Luxury: Palais de Chine Hotel
Getting Around Like a Local
The MRT (subway) is seriously amazing, clean, fast, and so easy to figure out. Taxis are totally affordable, and there’s this bike-sharing program called YouBike that’s perfect for exploring neighborhoods at your own pace. Here’s what I wish someone had told me: get an EasyCard as soon as you arrive. You can use it for the subway, buses, and even some shops. It’ll save you time and money, especially if you’re with a group. We cover Northern Taiwan – Jiufen, Shifen, and Waterfall Asia in the next article.In Summary
Okay, so Taipei. I honestly didn’t know what to expect, but it totally blew me away. First of all, yeah, the tourist spots are cool, like Taipei 101, for sure. I’ve enjoyed it so much that I’ve been there about five times! But honestly? It’s the street food that got me. I remember eating this crazy good beef noodle soup at a night market, and I was like, ‘How have I been living without this?!’ Oh, and don’t get me started on the temples. They have this calm vibe that you can’t get anywhere else.
FAQs
How do I get from the airport to downtown Taipei?
Oh, this is so much easier than you think! Taipei Taoyuan International Airport has this direct MRT line that shoots you straight into the city; it’s seriously convenient. You could also grab a taxi or shuttle bus if you’re feeling fancy, but honestly? The airport MRT is your best bet. It’s fast, you don’t have to deal with traffic, and it’s way cheaper than a taxi. More money for night market snacks!
What’s the weather actually like in Taipei?
All right, now here is the truth: summers are warm and humid (very humid), but the winters are actually quite nice and warm also. Most of your rain will be experienced between May and September, so do not forget to bring that umbrella!
Technically speaking, spring and autumn are perfect, but in fact, to arrange a trip, it is even better. Chelsea is comfortable, and you will actually be inclined to stay all day long wandering around rather than hiding in every air-conditioned shop you come across.
Can I use credit cards everywhere?
You’ll be fine with your credit card at most of the bigger places, hotels, restaurants, malls, and those amazing convenience stores that are literally everywhere. But here’s what I wish someone had told me: bring cash for the night markets, small cafes, and public transport. You’ll want New Taiwan Dollars on hand because nothing’s worse than finding the most incredible street food and not being able to buy it!
Is it easy to find vegetarian food in Taipei?
Yes! And I mean really good vegetarian food, not just sad salads. So many restaurants clearly mark their veggie dishes, and there are these incredible Buddhist vegetarian places that will completely change how you think about plant-based food. My tip? Ask locals for their favorite spots. People here are super friendly, and they know all the hidden gems. Trust me, you’re going to eat amazingly well!
