What You'll Gain From This Blog
- Discover the best attractions in Taipei, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems.
- Plan a practical 4–5-day Taipei itinerary with essential travel tips.
- Find the best temples, night markets, museums and scenic viewpoints.
- Get insider tips, MRT access, timings and budgets for each attraction.
- Learn where to eat and the must-try local dishes in Taipei.
- Explore lesser-known neighbourhoods for a more authentic Taipei experience.
Taipei doesn’t try hard to impress you- that’s exactly why it does. The Taiwan capital is synonymous with towering skyscrapers and a vibrant cultural landscape. There’s also a long list of things to do in Taipei that testify to the city’s dynamism and unique confluence of tradition and modernity.
From museums and historical landmarks to vibrant night markets and delicious local cuisine, Taipei has a lot that you can discover beneath the surface. Here are 15 of the best things to do in Taipei, including iconic landmarks, vibrant neighbourhoods and lesser-known local gems that deserve a place on your itinerary.
What You Need to Know Before You Go to Taipei
Here are some things you need to know before you go to Taipei for a holiday.
- The best time to visit Taipei is from October to November when the weather is dry and cool. Many also prefer visiting during the spring from March to April to enjoy the clear skies and mild weather.
- You will need at least 4-5 days in your Taipei itinerary to cover the main spots and hidden gems mentioned in this list.
- Taiwan is largely cashless, but many night market stalls still prefer cash.
- To get around, you can use the MRT subway network and buy a reloadable EasyCard at any convenience store or station to pay for your trips.
- On that note, let us look at the best things to do in Taipei, Taiwan below.
- You need to secure your stay in Taipei in advance, choosing well-connected areas to cover all the stops on your itinerary.
The Best Things to Do in Taipei (Icons Worth the Hype)
These are the top things to do in Taipei, Taiwan, that everyone recommends. They are worth the hype, considering their historical and cultural significance and should not be missed on your trip.
1. Taipei 101 + Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan)
These are top Taipei tourist destinations, where you can enjoy amazing views, both of and from the iconic building. Visit the indoor and outdoor observatory decks on the 89th and 91st floors of Taipei 101 to view the whole city grid. Climb 600 stone steps up the lovely Xiangshan Nature Trail to reach the beautiful lookout spots facing the massive building.
Practical Tips:
- Taipei Observatory opens daily from 10 AM to 9 PM, while the Elephant Mountain trail stays open 24/7.
- The Taipei 101 indoor deck costs approximately NT$600 per adult, while the Elephant Mountain hike is free.
- The best time to visit for the hike is late afternoon to watch the sunset.
Nearest MRT: Taipei 101/World Trade Centre Station for the tower and Xiangshan Station (Red Line, Exit 2) for the mountain.
Insider Tip: Skip the first photo rocks, which are crowded and often have long lines. Walk just two minutes further up the path to pavilions offering unobstructed tower views.
2. Longshan Temple
A living and spiritual masterpiece, it is one of the biggest Taipei attractions that you should not miss. Rhythmic and hypnotic chanting and burning incense clouds beautifully combine to create a religious atmosphere. Make your offerings at the grand central burner. You can also toss the Jiaobei or crescent moon blocks to read the wooden divination blocks. Watch the monks engaged in their daily Buddhist chanting sessions.
Practical Tips:
- Timings: 6 AM to 9.30 PM daily.
- Entry is free (small donations are welcome).
- The best time to visit is early morning before 8 AM or after 8 PM in the evening.
Nearest MRT: Longshan Temple Station (Exit 1).
Insider Tip: For a unique experience, arrive by 6 AM or join the courtyard bounds during the chanting sessions daily (6 AM, 8.30 AM and evening hours). This is when the spiritual vibe is intense and loud tour groups are mostly absent.
3. Ximending
One of the most important Taipei places to visit, the area celebrates the city’s vibrant culture and entertainment. It is famous for its red-brick playhouses, buzzing streets and neon-lit pedestrian areas. Explore the historic and octagonal Red House with its unique Taiwanese crafts and designer pop-ups.
Visit Movie Street (Wuchang Street), which houses famous cinema complexes and huge outdoor film billboards. Take photographs at the vibrant six-colour Rainbow Crosswalk outside the main station exit. Discover fascinating claw machines, toys and retro video games in the Wan Nian Building.
Practical Tips:
- Hours: The pedestrian district is open 24/7, although individual street food stalls and other shops usually function daily from 11 AM to 10 PM.
- Entry into the zone is free, although you should budget some funds for street food and small purchases.
- The best time to visit is in the evening between 6.30 PM and 9.30 PM for street performers, peak neon lighting and bustling crowds.
Nearest MRT: Ximen Station (Exit 6).
Insider Tip: Walk past the commercial stretch to find Lane 96, Emei Street (also known as Tattoo Street), housing a unique cluster of tattoo parlours, youth art and hidden streetwear hubs.
4. Shilin Night Market
Step into a vast maze at this incredible night market, one of the unmissable places to see in Taipei. Enjoy the carnival games, fashion and delicious street food here. Try the iconic XXL/giant crispy chicken cutlet and other street food like stinky tofu, bubble tea and pan-fried bun parcels.
Play carnival games like ring tosses, balloon darts, and use the Gashapon toy machines. Shop for affordable streetwear, trinkets, mobile accessories and shoes.
Practical Tips:
- The hours are 4 PM to 12 AM (the peak hours are 7 PM to 10 PM).
- Entry to the zone is free; budget about NT$200-500 for snacks and basic purchases.
- Arrive around 5 PM to avoid the crowds and get seats more easily.
Nearest MRT: Jiantan Station (Exit 1)- walk 5 minutes down Jihe Road to reach.
Insider Tip: Avoid the crowded main stretch and visit the underground food court below the main Shilin Market building or the alleyways around the Cixian Temple. If you want something less crowded, Raohe works for a more local vibe, while Ningxia is more compact and food-focused.
5. Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall/Liberty Square
A must-see in Taipei for history buffs, this sprawling marble plaza honours Taiwan’s former president with synchronised guards changing every hour. Visitors can watch the ceremonial guard rotation during museum opening hours. Check the official schedule before visiting.
Climb the 89 majestic steps to view the huge bronze statue. Frame your photographs through the massive white Liberty Square gate.
Practical Tips:
- Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM daily (the square is open 24/7).
- Admission is free, and the best time to visit is early morning (6 AM to 9 AM) to watch the locals practising Tai Chi.
Nearest MRT: Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall Station (Exit 5).
Insider Tip: For the best photographs, frame the central blue and white hall by standing below the outer arches of the huge Liberty Square front gate. It ensures an amazingly symmetrical photograph.
6. National Palace Museum
This is a must-visit historical and cultural landmark that you should not miss if you’re wondering what to do in Taipei. It holds a stunning imperial collection of treasures that will awe you. Walk through the climate-controlled galleries to view the ancient Chinese dynastic wonders, jade carvings, calligraphies and rare ceramics.
Rent an audio guide, study the scroll paintings and relax in the Zhishan Garden.
Practical Tips:
- Hours: Open daily from 8.30 AM to 6.30 PM (till 9.30 PM on Fridays and Saturdays).
- Costs are NT$350 for general admission.
- Visit on Tuesday or Wednesday at 8.30 AM to avoid heavy crowds.
Nearest MRT: Shilin Station Road (Red Line)- take the R30 bus directly from here to the museum.
Insider Tip: If you have limited time, prioritise the Mao Gong Ding (inscribed with ancient Chinese bronze texts), Meat-Shaped Stone and Jadeite Cabbage.
7. Beitou Hot Springs
Where to go in Taipei for some much-needed relaxation? The Beitou Hot Springs is a lush green volcanic valley with thermal streams, mineral pools and famous bathhouses. Choose from traditional nude communal bathhouses, private luxury rooms in resorts or open-air public pools for a soak.
Explore the thermal valley, walking along the wooden paths to watch the sulphuric water bubbling at high temperatures. Visit the Beitou Hot Spring Museum and Beitou Public Library.
Practical Tips:
- Hours: 9 AM to 10 PM for most bathhouses, while the Thermal Valley timings are from 9 AM to 5 PM (closed on Mondays).
- Budget NT$40-100 for public outdoor pools and NT$400-1,500 per person for resort day passes or private rooms.
- Winter (December to February) is the peak season, and early morning visits are ideal to avoid the crowds.
Nearest MRT: Xinbeitou Station (take the Red Line to Beitou Station and switch to the pink branch shuttle line).
Insider Tip: Protect your jewellery before stepping into the water; the heavy sulphur gas turns silver completely black in a few seconds.
8. Maokong Gondola + Tea Houses
For a taste of traditional culture, riding the Maokong Gondola and visiting the tea houses is a must-do in Taipei. It will take you above the city buzz into tranquil green hills with lovely valley views. Ride the Gondola, soaring 4 kilometres over green forests. Choose the Crystal Cabin glass-bottom ride for incredible views.
Explore the local tea houses, trying the local Pouchong or Tieguanyin tea served in traditional ceramic sets. Walk along the paved Camphor trail to view wooden pavilions, flowers and rural farming plots. Stop at the Zhinan Temple or Zhangshan Temple for gorgeous views and tranquil shrines.
Practical Tips:
- Hours: Tuesday to Friday from 9 AM to 9 PM and 9 AM to 10 PM on Saturday and Sunday (Mondays closed).
- Budget NT$120 (one-way) for the full route (may be cheaper with the EasyCard); Crystal Cabins operate on the same fare, although queues are usually longer.
- Visit in the late afternoon to watch the sunset.
Nearest MRT: Taipei Zoo Station (Brown Wenhu Line)- walk 5 minutes to the base gondola station from here.
Insider Tip: Avoid the costly commercial teahouses beside the Maokong Station and walk 15 minutes to reach the Zhangshan Temple. You can borrow a tea cup and enjoy free traditional brews here with gorgeous views.
9. Jiufen (Half-Day/Day Trip)
Jiufen is technically outside Taipei City, although it is one of the most popular places for Taipei tourists. It offers a wonderland of narrow alleys, red lanterns and lovely ocean views. Explore Jiufen Old Street and try the peanut ice cream rolls, taro balls and grilled mushrooms.
Admire and photograph the famous A-Mei Teahouse with its red lanterns. Enjoy Taiwanese tea at a traditional mountainside house.
Practical Tips:
- Hours: Shops open daily from 9 AM to 7 PM (teahouses may stay open till 9/10 PM).
- Budget TWD 300-600 for food and tea, while bus fares are TWD 90-113 each way.
- Visit around 4 PM for incredible sunset views and to watch the lanterns light up spectacularly.
Nearest MRT: Take MRT to Zhongxiao Fuxing Station and board Bus 1062 to Jiufen.
Insider Tip: Skip the crowded main entrance stairs upon arrival and walk a bit up/down the coastal road to find quieter stone stairways. They lead vertically through the village back levels with near-zero crowds.
Hidden Gems in Taipei Most Guides Miss
Wondering what to see in Taipei that’s off-the-beaten track? Here are some attractions that most guides miss and first-timers mostly never find!
10. Dihua Street
It may be worth it if you have some extra time, though it can be slightly polarising among tourists. Dihua Street is the oldest commercial lane in Taipei with a mix of historic shophouses, indie boutiques and more. Pick up Chinese medicinal herbs, teas, dried fruits and mushrooms from traditional vendors.
View the 19th-century Hokkien and Baroque-style brick facades. Also, visit converted brick lanehouses with cafes, design shops and fabric stalls in the Yongle Market.
Practical Tips:
- Hours: 10 AM to 7 PM (the outdoor street is open 24/7).
- It is free to walk; your costs depend on whether you eat or shop here.
- Visit around 11 AM or in the afternoon/evening.
Nearest MRT: Daqiaotou Station (Exit 1) or Beimen Station (both 10-12 minutes away from the street).
Insider Tip: Do not miss looking up at the rooflines; most visitors only stare at eye level, missing the carved plaster dates and family crests on the upper facades (they reveal which dynasty built each shophouse).
11. Yinhe Cave Temple (Xindian)
Among unmissable things to do in Taipei, Yinhe Cave Temple is a peaceful cave temple hidden in the green cliffside where a waterfall flows past a century-old shrine. Not many people know about it, which makes it even more special.
Climb the stone path through the shaded valley and explore the cave temple behind the gushing waterfall. Rest on the stone benches at the Guanyin shrine and take photographs from the wooden viewing window.
Practical Tips:
- Hours: Open 24/7 (best visited between 8 AM and 5 PM).
- Visit early on weekdays to avoid crowds.
Nearest MRT: Xindian Station (Green Line)- take a taxi/Uber to the Yinhe Cave Hiking Trail (recommended to avoid a steep uphill road walk of 2 kilometres).
Insider Tip: Instead of returning through the same staircase, consider hiking past the temple to reach the Maokong tea-growing zone (take a gondola ride back to the city from here).
12. Huashan 1914 Creative Park
This is a flourishing arts and culture hub within a former 20th-century winery. Consider it only if you’re looking for something more relaxed and offbeat. Browse the rotating pop-ups and step into historic industrial buildings.
Watch indie movies at the theatre or enjoy live music performances. Buy innovative handmade crafts, eco-friendly art and stationery.
Practical Tips:
- Hours: The outdoor park grounds are open 24/7, while indoor shops/galleries run daily from 11 AM to 9 PM.
- The park grounds have free entry. Ticketed pop-ups and indoor shows may cost around NT$280-500+ per person.
- Visit on weekday afternoons (after 2 PM) to avoid heavy crowds and long lines.
Nearest MRT: Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station (Exit 1)- it is a 3-minute walk from the spot.
Insider Tip: Skip the overpriced trendy cafes in the compound and step into the surrounding alleys to find amazing local favourites like Chun Shui Tang (the originator of bubble tea).
13. Bopiliao Historic Block
If you’re looking for stuff to do in Taipei that’s culturally stimulating, consider visiting this impeccably preserved Qing and Japanese era streetscape. It’s tucked behind Ximending, and most people walk right past it! Explore the 19th-century pedestrian lane, archways and wooden doors.
Step into the Heritage and Cultural Education Centre of Taipei with its art displays, film set mock-ups and community history exhibits. Pair your walk with a short trip to the adjacent Huaxi Street Night Market and Longshan Temple.
Practical Tips:
- Hours: 9 AM to 6 PM (closed on Mondays).
- Admission is free to the outdoor street and indoor exhibition spaces.
- Visit in the mornings/late afternoons for fewer crowds.
Nearest MRT: Longshan Temple Station- just 5 minutes away.
Insider Tip: Most people only take pictures of the external red-brick walls and depart. Head deeper into the side rooms and covered indoor halls, checking out the exhibits, viewing platforms and galleries.
14. Taipei Expo Park
Hidden in plain sight, it’s one of those gems that most people end up missing! Right next to the Shilin Night Market/Grand Hotel, it is an oasis of huge green spaces with indie art events and a bustling weekend farmers’ market.
Walk through the garden paths and join the outdoor fitness groups for a unique experience. Buy fresh local produce or relax on the lawn, watching low-flying aeroplanes passing overhead.
Practical Tips:
- It is open 24/7, while the farmers’ market runs on Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM to 6 PM.
- Entry is free, and you should consider visiting in the late afternoon/early evening.
Nearest MRT: Yuanshan Station (Exit 1, Red Line).
Insider Tip: Walk to the Xinsheng Park’s eastern edge to discover the hidden lawns for aeroplane-spotting. Commercial flights from the Songshan Airport fly low overhead during landing.
15. Yongkang Street
One of Taipei's most distinctive attractions, it is an entire food-focused neighbourhood where you can enjoy some of the city’s best street food.
Walk down the leafy green boulevards and try the delicious scallion pancakes. Find local Taiwanese teas offered by traditional stores and feast on handmade pork dumplings and other treats.
Practical Tips:
- Hours: 10 AM to 10 PM (individual shop timings vary).
- Costs may be around TWD 200-600 per person for the entire snack run.
- Visit just before the peak lunch hour around 11.30 AM.
Nearest MRT: Dongmen Station (Exit 5).
Insider Tip: Avoid the long queues at the main-strip attractions and venture into the side alleys behind Yongkang Park. Find family-run teahouses offering artisanal mango shaved ice and beef noodle bowls here.
What to Eat While You’re in Taipei
Food is an important part of any trip, and Taipei's cuisine is one of the best in Asia. Here’s a list of what you should not miss trying on your visit to Taipei:
Where to Stay in Taipei
It is important to choose just the right place to stay in Taipei as you explore the iconic Taiwanese city. The perfect neighbourhood will make the exploration easier and enhance the overall experience. Here's a quick look at the best neighbourhoods to base yourself in, depending on what you want out of your trip.
- Da'an District: Central and residential, Da'an puts you close to Yongkang Street, Da'an Forest Park and several MRT lines. It's ideal if you want a quieter, local feel without sacrificing convenience.
- Xinyi District: Home to Taipei 101 and the city's main shopping and nightlife scene. Stay here if you want upscale hotels, easy access to Elephant Mountain, and to be in the middle of the action.
- Zhongshan District: A well-connected, walkable area with a mix of boutique hotels, cafes and easy MRT access to Ximending, Dihua Street and the main train station. Zhongshan District is a solid middle-ground pick for first-time visitors.
- Ximending: Best if you want to be right in the buzz; shopping, street food and nightlife are all on your doorstep. Note it can get loud on weekends, so it suits travellers who want energy over quiet.
- Wanhua District (near Longshan Temple): Taipei's oldest district, with good budget options and easy access to Longshan Temple, Bopiliao Historic Block and Huaxi Street Night Market. A good pick if history and culture are your priority.
Visit Taipei with TheSquare
Make your trip to Taipei worth every moment with our lavish and comfortable serviced apartments. With so many Taipei attractions to get through, it is crucial to have the perfect stay in the city.
Get in touch with us at stay@thesqua.re, and we'll help you find the right stay in Taipei.
Closing Thoughts
Taipei is a city that rewards every kind of traveller, whether you're on a short break or a longer stay. From landmarks like Taipei 101 and Longshan Temple to local favourites such as Yongkang Street and Dihua Street, there’s no shortage of things to do in Taipei, blending culture, food, nature, and history in one vibrant destination.
To get the most out of your visit, mix major attractions with smaller neighbourhood experiences. This helps you go beyond the usual tourist spots and get a real feel for the city’s character. Use this guide to plan your itinerary, prioritise the things to do in Taipei that match your interests, and enjoy one of Asia’s most dynamic cities.
FAQs
1. What are the must-visit attractions in Taipei?
Some of the top attractions include the Longshan Temple, Taipei 101, Elephant Mountain, Liberty Square and the National Palace Museum.
2. Is Taipei walkable or do you need a scooter?
Taipei is extremely walkable, with wide and pedestrian-friendly sidewalks. You can get around with the vast metro system without needing a scooter.
3. What’s the best time of year to visit Taipei?
You can consider visiting between October and November or March to May (spring) for comfortable weather and lower humidity.
4. How many days do you need in Taipei?
You will need at least 4-5 days to see the major highlights, temples and night markets. If you want to explore offbeat gems or head out of the city, consider adding 2-3 days extra to the itinerary.
5. Is Taipei safe for tourists?
Yes, Taipei is one of the safest cities for tourists, with low crime rates. The streets are secure at night, and solo travellers can easily explore the city without any worries.
