Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei Travel Guide

Taipei is the vibrant capital city of Taiwan, known for its rich history, stunning natural beauty, and unique blend of Asian cultures. As a traveler in Taipei, you’ll discover a city that seamlessly blends modern convenience with traditional charm.

Places to Visit

Must-See Attractions

1. National Palace Museum

Address: No. 221, Sec. 2, Zhongshan E. Rd., Taipei City

The world’s largest collection of Chinese art and artifacts is a must-visit attraction in Taipei.

  • Hours: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM
  • Admission: NT$250 (approximately USD $8)

2. Taipei 101

Address: No. 7, Sec. 5, Xinyi Rd., Xinyi Dist., Taipei City

At one time the world’s tallest building, Taipei 101 offers panoramic views of the city.

  • Hours: 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
  • Admission: NT$660 (approximately USD $22) for adults

3. Longshan Temple

Address: No. 211, Guangzhou St., Wanhua Dist., Taipei City

This historic temple has been a place of worship and refuge since the Qing Dynasty.

  • Hours: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM

4. Elephant Mountain

Address: No. 201, Section 3, Xinyi Road, Xinyi District

This mountain offers breathtaking views of Taipei City and is a popular spot for hiking.

  • Hours: 24/7

Cultural Centers

1. Taipei Arts Center

Address: No. 10, Section 5, Xinsheng South Road, Da’an District

Showcasing a range of art exhibitions and performances, this center is a hub for cultural expression.

  • Hours: Vary

2. Taipei City Hall

Address: No. 1, City Hall Road, Xinyi District

A blend of modern and traditional architecture, this building houses the city government.

  • Hours: Vary

Markets and Shopping Areas

1. Shilin Night Market

Address: Jiaan Street, Shilin District

One of Taipei’s most famous night markets, offering a wide variety of street food and shopping.

  • Hours: 6:00 PM - 12:00 AM

2. Raohe Street Night Market

Address: Raohe St., Wanhua District

A bustling night market known for its hot pot and snack stalls.

  • Hours: 6:00 PM - 12:00 AM

3. Dihua Street

Address: Dihua St., Datong District

This street is lined with historic buildings and offers a glimpse into Taipei’s past.

  • Hours: Vary

Activities

Outdoor Activities

1. Hot Springs

Taipei has several hot springs resorts where you can relax and rejuvenate.

  • Prices vary, but expect to pay around NT$200-500 (approximately USD $6-$16) per person for a day pass.

2. Hiking

Taipei offers numerous hiking trails for all skill levels, including Elephant Mountain and Yangmingshan National Park.

  • Free admission

3. Cycling

Rent a bike and explore Taipei’s scenic bike paths.

  • Rent prices vary but expect to pay around NT$100-200 (approximately USD $3-$6) per day.

Indoor Activities

1. Museums

Taipei has several museums showcasing art, history, and science.

  • Admission prices vary, but most are around NT$50-150 (approximately USD $2-$5).

2. Karaoke

Singing is a popular pastime in Taiwan, and you can find karaoke bars throughout the city.

  • Prices vary, but expect to pay around NT$100-500 (approximately USD $3-$16) per person for a few hours of singing.

Shopping

1. Shopping Malls

Taipei has several large shopping malls offering a wide range of products and services.

  • Free admission

2. Markets

In addition to night markets, Taipei also has several daytime markets selling everything from fresh produce to souvenirs.

  • Prices vary, but expect to pay around NT$100-500 (approximately USD $3-$16) for most items.

Where to Eat

Street Food

1. Shilin Night Market

This night market is famous for its street food and snacks.

  • Prices vary, but expect to pay around NT$50-200 (approximately USD $2-$6) per item.

2. Raohe Street Night Market

Another popular night market with a wide variety of street food.

  • Prices vary, but expect to pay around NT$50-200 (approximately USD $2-$6) per item.

Restaurants

1. Din Tai Fung

A world-famous restaurant chain serving xiaolongbao and other Taiwanese dishes.

  • Prices vary, but expect to pay around NT$100-500 (approximately USD $3-$16) per person for a meal.

2. Ah-Tou’s Dumplings

A popular restaurant serving delicious dumplings and other northern Chinese cuisine.

  • Prices vary, but expect to pay around NT$50-200 (approximately USD $2-$6) per person for a meal.

Cafes

1. Cafe Tango

A cozy cafe serving coffee and pastries.

  • Prices vary, but expect to pay around NT$100-300 (approximately USD $3-$10) for most items.

2. Espresso Royale

Another popular cafe chain with several locations throughout the city.

  • Prices vary, but expect to pay around NT$100-300 (approximately USD $3-$10) for most items.

Where to Stay

Budget-Friendly Options

1. Yes Hostel Taipei

A popular hostel with dorms and private rooms.

  • Prices start at around NT$800 (approximately USD $26) per night.

2. Inhouse Hotel Taipei

Another budget-friendly hotel option.

  • Prices start at around NT$2,000 (approximately USD $66) per night.

Mid-Range Options

1. Grand Hyatt Taipei

A luxurious hotel with modern rooms and amenities.

  • Prices start at around NT$6,000 (approximately USD $200) per night.

2. The Sherwood Taipei

Another upscale hotel option with elegant rooms and services.

  • Prices start at around NT$5,500 (approximately USD $183) per night.

Luxury Options

1. Hotel Grand View Regent Taipei

A luxurious hotel with high-end rooms and amenities.

  • Prices start at around NT$10,000 (approximately USD $330) per night.

2. W Taipei

Another luxury hotel option with modern and stylish rooms.

  • Prices start at around NT$8,000 (approximately USD $266) per night.

Things to Know

Weather

Taipei has a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons:

  • Spring: March to May, temperatures range from 20-25°C (68-77°F)
  • Summer: June to August, temperatures range from 28-32°C (82-90°F)
  • Autumn: September to November, temperatures range from 18-24°C (64-75°F)
  • Winter: December to February, temperatures range from 10-15°C (50-59°F)

Language

The official language of Taiwan is Mandarin Chinese. However, many locals also speak Taiwanese Hokkien and Hakka.

Currency

The currency used in Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (NT$).

Time Zone

Taipei is located in the Taipei Standard Time (UTC+8) zone.

Transportation

Metro

Taipei has a convenient and efficient metro system with six lines covering most areas of the city.

  • Ticket prices: NT$20-60 (approximately USD $0.66-$2)

Bus

Taipei also has an extensive network of buses that cover both urban and suburban areas.

  • Ticket prices: NT$10-30 (approximately USD $0.33-$1)

Taxi

Taxis are widely available throughout the city, but be sure to use a metered taxi for fixed fares.

  • Starting fare: NT$100 (approximately USD $3.33)
  • Per kilometer: NT$15 (approximately USD $0.5)

Tips and Other Things

Etiquette

When interacting with locals, remember to:

  • Use your right hand when giving or receiving something
  • Avoid pointing with your feet
  • Use polite language and phrases like “thank you” and “excuse me”

Safety

Taipei is generally a safe city, but take precautions against pickpocketing and other petty crimes.

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas
  • Keep valuables secure and hidden from view

Shopping Tips

When shopping at night markets or street vendors:

  • Haggle prices politely and reasonably
  • Check the quality of products before making a purchase
  • Don’t be afraid to walk away if you’re not satisfied with a product or price