What to do in Taipei? 31 tips for Taiwan's most surprising city

These are the best things to do in Taipei

Anyone who, like me, is crazy about Asian cities really must put Taipei on their bucket list. This city is worth a long city trip, but even more fun to combine with a tour of Taiwan.

Taipei is a city that many travelers underestimate beforehand. You might think mainly of the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper and a few night markets , but as soon as you get there, you realize how many different facets the Taiwanese capital has. I wandered through the trendy neighborhoods for hours, you can shop incredibly well there (including for pre-loved designer items), and eat even better.

Old streets with herbal shops lie next to trendy boutiques and specialty coffee bars. You visit historic temples, former factory sites transformed into creative parks , and neighborhoods full of (vintage) shops. In the morning, you have breakfast with warm soy milk and soup dumplings; during the day, you discover a new neighborhood every day, and in the evening, you sample street food under the neon lights of a night market.

After just a few days in Taipei, I already shared in my Instagram Stories that I could live here, and that says something! The city is incredibly clean, feels very safe (I was traveling there solo as a woman), and is very well organized.

The nature Taiwan is known for is never far away either. From the city center, you can be in the mountains, at tea plantations, or in a neighborhood with hot springs within a short time. And what I also always enjoy is that you can take various beautiful day trips from Taipei, so you can easily entertain yourself for five to seven days if you really want to see everything. These are the best things to do in Taipei during your city trip.

Ciyou Temple at Roahe Night Market © Your Little Black Book

These are the finest hotels in Taipei

In Taipei, you can find a great hotel for every type of city trip. Do you want to be right in the middle of the coffee bars, restaurants, and shops? Then take a look at Kimpton Da An Hotel or the slightly livelier EPISODE Daan Taipei in Da'an. For luxury and design, Capella Taipei and Mandarin Oriental Taipei are great choices. If you prefer wellness and hot springs, stay in Beitou at Villa 32 or Grand View Resort Beitou . For an affordable hotel in a good location, United Hotel and CitizenM Taipei North Gate are good options. If you prefer staying in the heart of lively Ximending, the smaller Cho Hotel is a nice design option. For even more addresses, check out my complete overview of the most beautiful boutique and luxury hotels in Taipei.

Kimpton Da'An © Your Little Black Book

The nicest neighborhoods of Taipei to discover one by one

Wander through historic Dadaocheng

Dadaocheng is one of my favorite neighborhoods in Taipei. Here you find exactly the mix of old and new that makes the city so interesting to me: historic shophouse facades, tea houses, and traditional specialty shops alongside trendy coffee bars, galleries, and design stores.

The most famous part of the neighborhood is Dihua Street, and I would definitely recommend walking the entire length of it from beginning to end. Just enjoy strolling past the shops selling spices, dried products, tea, and Taiwanese snacks, and let yourself be surprised by everything you come across. I ate delicious mochi there that was freshly prepared at a street stall, but you also see a lot of tea shops and other treats. Some businesses have been around for generations, while a few doors down, young entrepreneurs have opened a new concept.

It is also one of the best places to buy the typical Taiwanese shopping bag. You will find 茄芷袋 (ka-tsí-tē) there in all shapes, colors, and sizes! This bag is also jokingly called the 'Taiwanese LV'; originally a dirt-cheap, plastic shopping bag that now has a true retro cult status!

© Your Little Black Book

In the heart of Dadaocheng lies Art Yard , a collection of entrepreneurs who have started creative businesses in the restored buildings and shophouses. You will find cafes, local makers, small exhibitions, and shops featuring Taiwanese design there.

During the day, Dadaocheng is the place for nice coffee bars, and in the evening, you can come here for several trendy wine and cocktail bars.

Another nice thing to do is to walk towards Pier 5 towards the late afternoon or early evening on a sunny day. There are food trucks and terraces along the river, and it is busy with locals stopping for a bite to eat or going for a bike ride along the water to watch the sunset.

Dadaocheng © Your Little Black Book

Shop vintage and local design in Zhongshan

If I were to revisit one neighborhood extensively during a future trip to Taipei, it would be Zhongshan. Here you find a combination of vintage shops, specialty coffee, concept stores, and other hotspots.

Chifeng Street forms the creative heart of the neighborhood. The street and surrounding alleys are packed with independent shops, coffee and tea bars, and eateries. Everything is close together, making it easy to discover many great spots in just one afternoon. Do keep in mind, however, that some establishments don't open until later in the morning (sometimes even into the afternoon!).

Zhongshan is also one of the best neighborhoods for vintage and pre-loved fashion. Between the side streets, there are dozens of shops with carefully selected clothing, accessories, and second-hand designer pieces. I visited quite a few addresses, and it really feels like treasure hunting, so you have to let yourself be surprised a little by what you come across. What I really liked is that everything is so well curated that it is naturally inspiring.

The Cellar vintage store © Your Little Black Book

Experience local life in Da'an

While Zhongshan is known for design and vintage, I found that Da'an felt more like a place where many people actually live. I stayed at the Kimpton Da'an hotel for a few days, and just north of it, you'll find streets full of great places. From designer vintage stores to specialty coffee bars, but also many cool izakayas and hip (international) brunch spots that are very popular with locals as well.

I felt there was a totally different vibe here during the day and in the evening, so I would definitely go back multiple times if you have the time.

Photolab in Da'an © Your Little Black Book

Discover the energetic Ximending

Ximending shows the energetic side of Taipei. The district is often compared to Shibuya and Harajuku in Tokyo, and as soon as you walk around, you understand why. I thought it was amazing and went back a few times.

Neon signs, (pre-loved designer) shops, arcades, and street food alternate at a rapid pace. It is already lively here during the day, but in the evening, with all the neon lights, it gets really busy. If you want to enjoy some delicious street food without visiting a night market, this neighborhood is the place to be. There are all kinds of stalls in the side streets!

Ximending © Your Little Black Book

Famous sights in Taipei not to be missed

Go to the top of Taipei 101

You can hardly visit Taipei without looking up at Taipei 101. The skyscraper dominates the city's skyline and was even the tallest building in the world for many years.

The main reason to go inside is the observation deck with a 360-degree view of the city. On a clear day, you can see incredibly far and also spot the green mountains surrounding Taipei. Ideally, plan your visit for late afternoon. That is when you see the city slowly transform from a sea of ​​gray buildings into a landscape full of lights.

Downstairs, you will find the Taipei 101 Mall, featuring international brands, Taiwanese designers, and various restaurants. Even if you skip the observation deck, it is fun to take a look around here. For example, there is also a very tasty food court with all kinds of different eateries and a branch of Din Tai Fung (more on that later).

Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is one of Taipei's most famous monuments. Even if history isn't normally at the top of your list, it is definitely worth a visit. The white marble facade and blue roof of the Memorial Hall are among the city's most iconic sights.

Plan your visit around the Changing of the Guard and then take the time to walk around Liberty Square. For photography, it is best to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon, when it is quieter and the light becomes softer. I found the views through the gates particularly beautiful.

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall © Your Little Black Book

Experience local life at Longshan Temple

Of all the temples in Taipei, Longshan Temple is perhaps the place where you experience daily life best. This is not a temple where people come just for a photo, but an active place of prayer where residents have been gathering for generations.

As soon as you walk in, you hear softly murmured prayers and see tables full of fresh flower offerings. Visitors make offerings and ask various deities for health, happiness, or love. The temple combines influences from Buddhism and Taoism and shows how important spirituality still is within Taiwanese culture.

Be sure to take the time to admire the richly decorated roofs, colorful ornaments, and wood carvings. It is precisely these details that make Longshan Temple one of the most beautiful historic buildings in the city, in my opinion.

Longshan Temple © Your Little Black Book

Drink herbal tea on Herbal Street

Within walking distance of Longshan Temple lies 'Herbal Street' (located on Xichang Street), an area that many people skip, but which I personally found very interesting. Here you will find herbal shops that have been working with ingredients from traditional Chinese medicine for years.

In and in front of the shops, herbs, roots, leaves, and dried ingredients are displayed, and something can be made for every ailment. For example, I ordered a herbal tea there to combat bloating after flying. It gives a good picture of traditions that still play a role in the daily lives of many Taiwanese.

© Your Little Black Book

Visit the National Palace Museum

One of the most important museums in Taipei is the National Palace Museum. The extensive collection consists of centuries-old artworks, jade objects, calligraphy, ceramics, and imperial treasures.

Many pieces were once part of the collections of Chinese emperors. The museum displays not only the objects but also the stories and historical context behind them. As a result, you gain more insight into the history of the island and the cultural development of Taiwan.

I always find a museum a good idea to keep in reserve, for example if it is raining or extremely hot.

View of Taipei 101 © Your Little Black Book

Discover the creative parks in Taipei

You see it in cities all over the world, but I haven't seen it as fun and lively as in Taipei in ages. Throughout the city, former factory sites have been transformed into fun creative hubs full of restaurants, shops, and galleries. Below, I tell you which 'creative parks,' as they are called in Taiwan, you shouldn't miss.

Visit Songshan Cultural and Creative Park

Taipei has several creative hubs, but if you are curious about the Taiwanese design world, Songshan Cultural and Creative Park is one of the most interesting. I went there on my first evening in Taipei and immediately struck gold, getting a taste of the city's atmosphere.

The site was once a tobacco factory and has since been given a completely new purpose. In the industrial buildings, you will find design shops, exhibitions, creative studios, and cultural events.

I just strolled through the corridors on a whim and went inside everywhere it looked interesting. Truly a perfect first introduction to Taipei! Are you interested in architecture, product design, or graphic design? Then take a look at the Taiwan Design Museum as well.

Songshan Cultural and Creative Park © Your Little Black Book

Explore Huashan 1914 Creative Park

While Songshan feels a bit quieter, Huashan 1914 Creative Park is almost always buzzing with activity. The former wine factory has been transformed into a cultural hub featuring exhibitions, pop-up shops, film screenings, design markets, and cafes.

Especially on weekends, many locals come to Huashan to visit an exhibition or simply have a drink and walk around the grounds. Thanks to the hospitality venues, this is also a nice place to go later in the afternoon.

Huashan 1914 Creative Park © Your Little Black Book

Photograph Taipei 101 at Four Four South Village

For a beautiful view of Taipei 101, you shouldn't skip this last tip. Four Four South Village is a former military village with low-rise buildings that were once used as housing for soldiers and their families. Nowadays, cafes, creative entrepreneurs, and local makers have found their place here, but on weekdays it is quite a bit quieter than the other creative parks. I found it to be a particularly nice place to take photos.

Shopping in Taipei: these are the addresses for pros

Go in search of vintage, books, and unique department stores

Do you love design, books, vintage, and concept stores? Then be sure to make time to shop in Taipei. The city has such a nice mix of modern department stores, creative neighborhoods, and small independent shops. I deliberately brought an empty shopper at the bottom of my suitcase so I could take everything home.

For vintage and second-hand designer pieces, Zhongshan is the place to be, especially around Chifeng Street. Chains like 2nd Street and Brand Off are also popular for pre-loved designer bags and accessories. You'll come across these shops in almost every neighborhood, and if you look carefully, you can score some really nice items for very little money. For instance, I bought a Celine Trio Bag there for just over a hundred euros that I am so happy with.

2nd Street © Your Little Black Book

Book lovers will definitely want to visit an Eslite Bookstore location (or several!). In addition to books, many locations also sell stationery, design products, music, and gifts. Whenever I saw one, I always popped inside for a quick browse.

For Japanese snacks, beauty products, and unique supermarket finds, step inside a Don Don Donki . The stores are packed with matcha snacks, instant noodles, cosmetics, household products, and fresh meals. For instance, they also sell surprisingly good sashimi and onigiri. During my travels through Asia, I regularly pick up tasty treats here for breakfast, or to take along to the park for an affordable dinner, or to a beautiful viewpoint for sunset. Fun fact: in Japan itself, this store is known as 'Don Quijote'.

Well-known department stores in Taipei include Shin Kong Mitsukoshi, SOGO, Breeze Center, and Taipei 101 Mall. Even if you don't want to buy anything, the food halls in the basement are often worth a visit. You've also come to the right place if you just want to quickly stock up on some tasty, healthy snacks or fresh fruit.

Eslite Ximending © Your Little Black Book

Visit The Red House

In the heart of Ximending stands The Red House, a recognizable red brick building from 1908. Originally built as a market hall, it now houses design shops, creative entrepreneurs, and exhibitions by local makers. If you are looking to shop for souvenirs, this is the place to be; you will find unique local talent and creative concepts that you won't find anywhere else. I bought some very funny candles in the shape of soup dumplings there as a gift to take home.

On weekends, a creative market regularly takes place around the building. Here you can buy illustrations, jewelry, prints, and other handmade products by Taiwanese designers.

Taipei's LGBTQ+ scene also largely revolves around The Red House. The cafes and terraces behind the building give this part of Ximending a unique atmosphere. Close to the building, you will also find the famous rainbow crossing.

The Red House © Your Little Black Book

Food and drink in Taipei

Order xiaolongbao from Din Tai Fung

There are few restaurants as strongly connected to Taiwan as Din Tai Fung. What started as a modest establishment in Taipei grew into an international restaurant concept with locations all over the world. If I know there is a DTF (short for Din Tai Fung) in a city, I often go there first.

Almost everyone comes for the famous xiaolongbao: round, steamed dumplings filled with meat and broth. While you wait, take a look at the open kitchen, where you can see how every dumpling is folded by hand and how the dough is exactly the right thickness.

In addition to the classic version, the menu features dumplings with various fillings, noodle dishes, and vegetable dishes. Go early or be prepared for a wait, as the most famous locations are popular. The cucumbers with chili crisp are a favorite dish that I always order on the side. And do they also have the crab soup dumplings on the menu? Those are unbelievably delicious! You can find Din Tai Fung locations in several places in Taipei. During busy times, be prepared to wait in line for a while.

Taste a traditional Taiwanese breakfast

One of the nicest local experiences in Taipei is getting up early and having breakfast like the locals do. Traditional breakfast spots aren't about croissants and cappuccino, but about hot soy milk, youtiao, sesame buns, scallion pancakes, and dan bing. And although xiao long bao aren't typically a breakfast dish, you can also get delicious soup dumplings at most breakfast places.

It is fun to share different dishes for breakfast so you can taste a lot. At most places, you have to order at the counter first and then you can pick out a spot (at a table with others). Don't be put off if there is a line. The service is often fast, and in my experience, it always moves along well. For the tastiest breakfasts, search for 'soy milk shops' on Google Maps. Some are open 24 hours a day!

Sihai soy milk © Your Little Black Book

have a street food evening at Raohe Night Market

Are you visiting only one night market in Taipei ? Then I would choose Raohe Night Market. The market is lively, but manageable enough to try many different dishes without having to walk around for hours.

The most famous snack is the Fuzhou Black Pepper Bun. This crispy bun is baked in a traditional clay oven and filled with seasoned pork, black pepper, and spring onion. And I can tell you: they are truly divine, so you definitely want to order one.

Additionally, try an oyster omelette, grilled squid, and sweet potato balls, for example. Another reason why Raohe Night Market is one of the nicest night markets is its location next to the impressive Ciyou Temple, which is beautifully illuminated at night.

Eat your way through Shilin Night Market

Shilin Night Market is perhaps the most famous night market in Taiwan , and an institution for good reason. The area consists of a maze of food stalls, shops, games, and other stands.

This classic is busy and sometimes perhaps a bit overwhelming, but that is part of the experience. Because the market is so large, you can easily spend a whole evening here.

Try a huge Taiwanese fried chicken cutlet, stinky tofu, bubble tea, or one of the other snacks. I’d say: walk through the side streets too and be sure to check which stalls are busy and what the locals are ordering. That’s always a good indicator. And is it raining? There’s also a huge food court under the market’s main building where you can eat nice and dry. Just saying! 

| TIP: also check out the YLBB shortlist of the best night markets in Taipei here >>

Hiking and cycling in Taipei

Climb Elephant Mountain

Elephant Mountain is Taipei's most famous viewpoint. After a short but steep climb, you look out over the skyline with Taipei 101 as the focal point.

This spot is especially popular around sunset, because you take the most beautiful photos here during golden hour. You see the city slowly transform into a sea of ​​lights.

What I would do next time I'm in Taipei is get some tasty treats from the food hall or convenience store and enjoy the view with a picnic during sundown.

Cycle along the river with YouBike

You will see it immediately when you arrive in Taipei: this is a cycling city. And perhaps that is one of the reasons why I felt so at home there right away. If you link your public transport card online, you can also use the same pass to rent the YouBikes that you can find everywhere on the street. A fun way to see a different side of the city!

Along the Tamsui River, you will find wide bike paths in many places that are fun to explore if you feel like doing something active but don't want to leave the city. Great for the morning or the end of the day.

You Bikes in Taipei © Your Little Black Book

Wellness in Taipei

Relax in the hot springs of Beitou

One of the biggest surprises in Taipei, I found, was that onsens can be found in one of the districts on the outskirts of the city. Less than an hour from the center, Beitou feels like stepping into another world. The district has distinct Japanese influences and is known for its natural hot springs. You can find very beautiful luxury hotels with onsens here, but public hot springs can also be found.

Beitou is perfectly fine to visit on a half-day trip, but next time I have the time, I will definitely book one of the hotels to really turn it into a wellness night. Villa 32 , for example, is affiliated with Relais & Châteaux and also has a very good restaurant.

View from the hills in Beitou © Your Little Black Book

Book a Taiwanese hair wash

I always enjoy seeing what is popular in terms of beauty and wellness at a specific destination. A Taiwanese hair wash is a very popular and lovely midday wellness break. You receive an extensive head massage, and your hair is carefully washed, conditioned, and styled.

You can find many salons in ordinary residential neighborhoods or on the upper floors of skyscrapers, and they might look quite simple from the outside. That is precisely what makes it such a nice experience. It is best to just walk into a salon and ask if they have time!

On Google Maps, you could search for Happy Hair, Showlin Hair Salon, or Mentor Hair.

Get a traditional foot massage

Here is another great wellness tip that you can easily integrate into your day. You can find foot spas all over the city. And everyone will recognize this: after a day of 30.000 steps, this is certainly not an unnecessary luxury when traveling. First, you soak your feet in a herbal foot bath, and then you receive an extensive massage of your lower legs and feet in a wonderfully relaxing chair. I wish we had more of these kinds of rituals in the Netherlands as part of our culture. I could definitely get used to this! For example, you can search on Google Maps for 6 Star Foot Massage or Royal Paris, which can be found in several neighborhoods.

foot massage in taipei © Your Little Black Book

The best day trips from Taipei

Walk through the mountain village of Jiufen

Do you have enough time in Taipei for a beautiful day trip? About an hour from Taipei lies Jiufen, a mountain village with narrow streets, red lanterns, teahouses, and sea views. This is also a great tip for a late afternoon visit. Have a drink at one of the teahouses and discover Jiufen Old Street, where you stroll past street food stalls and shops through a maze of stairs. As soon as darkness falls, the atmosphere here is magical and the streetscape transforms into a sea of ​​lanterns. Do keep in mind, however, that this is also the busiest time of the day and you certainly won't be the only tourist. The next time I am in Taiwan, I will definitely go here with my son. I think we'll even make it an overnight stay! A nice hotel in Jiufen is, for example, Something Easy Inn (compare prices via Booking and Trip ). Do keep in mind not to bring too much luggage, as most hotels are located quite high up.

Take the Maokong Gondola to the tea fields

Is the weather clear? For a green escape from the city, hop on the Maokong Gondola towards the tea plantations. The cable car takes you over forests, hills, and residential areas to the south of Taipei.

The ride is actually a fun experience in itself, especially if you choose a cabin with a glass bottom. Once at the top, you will find various walking routes and tea houses with views over the green landscape.

It is nice to do a traditional tea tasting and really take your time with it. If you are traveling with kids, you can also easily combine this with a visit to the Taipei Zoo.

Maokong Gondola

Visit Shifen and the waterfall

Have you ever released a wish lantern? It remains a special experience! Shifen is one of the places in Taiwan where you can do this. Along the old railway line, you can write your deepest wishes on paper lanterns, which you then release into the air. Something else Shifen is known for is the Shifen Waterfall, one of the widest waterfalls in Taiwan. During the walk from the center to the waterfall, you pass suspension bridges, among other things, and are wonderfully surrounded by nature.

conseridable

View the rock formations of Yehliu Geopark

Yehliu Geopark is located on the north coast of Taiwan. The coastal landscape here is full of unique rock formations that have been shaped by wind, sea, and erosion over thousands of years. The next time I am in Taipei, I definitely want to visit. The most famous formation is Queen's Head, but be sure to walk further through the park. Along the way, you constantly encounter new shapes, and in some places, the landscape looks almost otherworldly. At this spot, you can see just how rugged and diverse Taiwan's nature is.

Yehliu Geopark

Watch the sunset in Tamsui

This is definitely one of those tips I have on my list for my next visit to Taipei. That way, you will have seen all the must-sees as a first-time visitor and can also discover other places. On the west side of Taipei lies Tamsui, a charming neighborhood along the river where you immediately notice you are outside the city center. It is a nice place to go in the late afternoon and stay until sunset.

First, stroll along Tamsui Old Street, where you will pass street food stalls, small shops, and local eateries. Sample a few snacks along the way, and then continue walking along the river. Do you have more time? Then head towards Fisherman's Wharf and the famous Lover's Bridge.

It gets especially cozy here around sunset. Order something to eat, find a spot by the water, and watch the sky slowly change color over the river.

Tamsui

End a day trip at Keelung Night Market

I am always a big fan of combining trips, and with the right preparation, this is often possible. Have you visited Jiufen, Yehliu, or another destination on the north coast? Then Keelung Miaokou Night Market is a nice way to end the day.

The night market in the port city is especially known for seafood in all shapes and sizes. Sample crab soup, seafood noodles, fried squid, or other tasty fish and shellfish dishes that are often prepared right in front of you.

A fun local night market as a change of pace from all the places in the city!

squid on the night market © Your Little Black Book

How many days do you need for Taipei?

For a first visit to Taipei, I would set aside at least four full days. That gives you time for the main sights, a few cool neighborhoods, creative parks, night markets, and one of the day trips I described above, which takes you to a totally different world just outside the city.

Are you staying for five or six days? Then you can travel more leisurely and take more day trips to places like Jiufen, Shifen, or Beitou, and perhaps even stay there for the night.

But my golden tip? Taipei is a really fun city not to plan every hour into, but just to wander around the different neighborhoods. That is how I really discovered the best (and tastiest!) spots. With the metro, you can easily reach different parts of the city to see something new every time.

© Your Little Black Book

Just a quick rundown of the YLBB shortlist for Taipei:

Most famous sights: Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall & National Palace Museum
Most beautiful temples: Longshan Temple & Ciyou Temple
Nicest historic districts: Dadaocheng (with Dihua Street and Pier 5) & Tamsui Old Street
Best trendy neighborhoods: Zhongshan (around Chifeng Street), Ximending & Da'an
Best creative parks: Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, Huashan 1914 Creative Park & ​​Four Four South Village. Read more about it here >>
Favorite night markets: Raohe Night Market, Shilin Night Market & Keelung Miaokou Night Market. View more tips here >>
Best local experiences: traditional Taiwanese breakfast at soy milk shops, eating xiaolongbao at Din Tai Fung, drinking herbal tea on Herbal Street & cycling along the river on a YouBike
Most beautiful views: Elephant Mountain & Maokong Gondola (towards the tea plantations)
Best wellness moments: hot springs in Beitou, Taiwanese hair wash & a traditional foot massage 
Best day trips from Taipei: Combine Jiufen with Keelung, Shifen (lanterns and waterfall) & Yehliu Geopark (rock formations).

Showa Ice Cream © Your Little Black Book

| TIP: check out the YLBB shortlist of the best hotels in Taipei here >>

More tips for Taipei and Taiwan on Your Little Black Book:

• The most beautiful destinations in Taiwan: 18 places for your round trip
• Taiwan Tour: itinerary from 8 days to 3 weeks
• 11 of the nicest (boutique) hotels in Taipei
• What to do in Kenting & Pingtung: the best tips for South Taiwan
• What to do in Tainan: the best tips for Taiwan's culinary capital
• The 11 best night markets in Taiwan
• 6 Best Night Markets in Taipei for Foodies
• 3 creative parks in Taipei you don't want to miss
• View the complete Taiwan Travel Guide

Rose Food © Your Little Black Book