Looking for fun things to do in Taipei, Taiwan? Here’s our list of the 13 must-see attractions and activities you shouldn’t miss on your visit!
We’ve had our eye on Taiwan for a while, especially with Taiwanese food becoming more popular worldwide. During a recent trip to Asia, we couldn’t resist adding Taipei and a few other Taiwanese cities to our itinerary. And the capital of Taiwan did not disappoint!
With 2.7 million people, Taipei (and Taiwan as a whole) is often overlooked by travellers. But there are many reasons to visit: it’s safe, you’ll find delicious and affordable food everywhere, the locals are friendly and polite, it’s English-friendly, and the city has stunning natural beauty.
To help you make the most of your time in Taipei, we’ve put together a list of 13 fun things to do. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a returning traveller, these activities will help you experience the very best of this underrated gem!
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Short on time? Here are our top picks for visiting Taipei:
Must-See: If you only have time for the essentials, don’t miss:
(1) Hiking to the top of Elephant Mountain.
(2) Admiring the panoramic views from the 89th floor of Taipei 101.
(3) Exploring the stunning Lungshan temple.
Where to Stay: Our favourite places to stay in Taipei were the MGH Mitsui Garden Hotel (see on Agoda or Booking.com) and Kimpton Da An (see hotel on Agoda or Booking.com).
Getting Around: Walking and public transport (metro and bus) are the easiest ways to explore Taipei. Use an EasyCard (rechargeable prepaid card) for pay-as-you-go travel or the Taipei Transport FunPass for unlimited rides.
Tours & Experiences: For local tours & tickets for Taipei attractions, check Klook (very popular in Asia), GetYourGuide, or Viator. Here are two tours we recommend:
– Day tour to Yehliu, Jiufen and Shifen from Taipei
– Free (tip-based) walking tour: historic route
Saving Money: The Taipei Klook Pass or Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass can help you save on major attractions, depending on your itinerary.
Staying Connected: Ubigi eSIM is our go-to eSIM provider for staying connected abroad. Get 10% off your first data plan with our code AWAY10. Learn more in our Ubigi review.
Keep reading for our full guide on the top things to do in Taipei!
Must-See Attractions & Top Activities in Taipei City
Whether you’re visiting Taipei for the first time or you’ve been before, our list of the 13 top tourist attractions and activities highlights the best things to do and see.
1. Hike to the Top of Elephant Mountain
Elephant Mountain was one of our absolute favourite things to do in Taipei!
The hike is short, only 1.5 km (0.9 miles), but it’s steep and challenging, especially on a hot day. You’ll climb over 300 steps, so be prepared to sweat!
Did you know? Elephant Mountain is officially called Xiangshan, which means “Elephant Hill” in Chinese because it looks like an elephant’s trunk.
The peak is 183 metres (600 feet) high and gives you one of the best views of the city. You’ll get to see Taipei’s skyline and the surrounding hills and mountains. It’s no wonder this is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
If you love photography, this is a must for snapping stunning photos of Taipei.
Top tip: The best time to visit is at sunrise when it’s less crowded. If you’re not an early riser, the next best option is late afternoon, just before sunset. The views are incredible as the city lights up with the setting sun.
Admission and opening hours: Elephant Mountain is free to visit and open 24/7.
2. Admire the Panoramic Views from Taipei 101
The iconic Taipei 101 is the tallest building in Taiwan and a key part of the city’s skyline. For a time, it held the title of the world’s tallest building until the Burj Khalifa in Dubai took over.
We went up to the observation deck on the 89th floor, where you get incredible views of the city.
But our highlight was seeing the massive 660-tonne steel ball there. This mass damper reduces movement by up to 40% during earthquakes and storms, which is essential in Taiwan as it frequently gets earthquakes (luckily, we didn’t experience one during our visit).
Did you know? The damper is so beloved in Taipei that they created a mascot: Damper Baby! This character has the damper’s body and a big head with tiny arms and legs. You’ll find it in gift shops all over the city.
Our Top Tips for Visiting Taipei 101
- With the standard ticket, you can explore three floors: the main indoor observatory on the 89th floor, the mass damper on the 88th floor, and an outdoor observatory on the 91st floor (which is closed when it’s rainy).
- You can pay extra to visit the 101st floor, but we didn’t feel it was worth the additional cost.
- Choose a clear day for your visit. Clouds, rain, or fog can spoil the view.
- Arrive before noon to avoid the big tour groups.
- After your visit, grab lunch at the food court on the ground floor (there’s so much choice!).
Admission and opening hours: The standard ticket for the 88th, 89th, and 91st floors costs NT$600 (≈ £15 or 17€ or US$19). If you want to go up to the 101st floor, there’s an additional fee of NT$380 (≈ £9 or 11€ or US$12). The observatory is open daily from 10am-9pm.
3. Learn About Taiwan’s History at the National Palace Museum
If you’re into history like we are, the National Palace Museum in Taipei is an absolute gem. It holds nearly 700,000 Chinese imperial artefacts, covering over 5,000 years of history.
The museum contains incredible artwork, calligraphy, ceramics, and rare historical documents. We spent over three hours here exploring all of the items.
One of the museum’s most famous pieces is the Jadeite Cabbage, a jade carving that’s centuries old. Another fun piece there is a meat-shaped stone – it looks exactly like a piece of pork.
Our Top Tips for Visiting the National Palace Museum
- The museum is outside Taipei’s city centre, and the Taipei Metro doesn’t go directly there. We took an Uber one way and a bus the other, but we’d recommend using Uber for its speed and convenience.
- Expect many large tour groups from China, Korea, and Japan, so you may have to queue to see the exhibits. Simply switch rooms and come back later.
- Join a free guided tour in English at 10am or 3pm. If you can’t get one, we recommend getting an audio guide. It’s NT$150 (≈ £4 or 4€ or US$5) per device.
Admission and opening hours: Entrance to the National Palace Museum costs NT$350 (≈ £9 or 10€ or US$11). The museum is open Tuesday through Sunday, 9am-5pm, and is closed on Mondays.
You can buy your ticket for the National Palace Museum here.
4. Watch the Changing of the Guard at Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (CKS Memorial Hall) is an iconic landmark in Taipei. It was completed in 1980 to honour the former Chinese military and political leader of the Nationalist government, Chiang Kai-shek.
He played a major role in the Chinese Civil War, leading the Kuomintang (Nationalist Party of China) against Mao Zedong’s Communist Party of China. Opinions about him in Taiwan vary. Some see him as a hero who fought communism, while others criticise his authoritarian rule.
The memorial hall itself is very impressive and a must-see place in Taipei! Make sure to catch the Changing of the Guard ceremony, which happens every full hour from 9am to 5pm daily.
Our Top Tips for Visiting CKS Memorial Hall
- For the best spot to see the Changing of the Guard ceremony, we recommend standing on the far-right side, near the elevator entrance. Arrive 5-10 minutes early to get a good view and snap some great photos.
- Explore the museum beneath the memorial hall. You’ll find interesting exhibits about Chiang’s life and the history of the Nationalist Party of China.
- If you’re visiting in the afternoon, bring sunscreen as it can get quite hot with little shade around.
Admission and opening hours: The grounds and memorial hall are free to enter. The hall is open daily from 9am-6pm, and the park is accessible from 5am-midnight.
5. Appreciate the Beauty of Lungshan Temple
Of all the temples we’ve visited in Taipei, Bangka Lungshan Temple stood out as the most beautiful. We were struck by its stunning architecture, vibrant colours, and dragon carvings.
First built in 1738 by Chinese settlers, it’s one of the oldest temples in Taipei. You’ll also sometimes see it referred to as Longshan Temple.
Did you know? Over time, this temple has endured various natural disasters, such as fires and earthquakes, but it has always been rebuilt by faithful worshippers and supporters.
The temple is dedicated to Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy. But it also houses other deities, such as Mazu, the sea goddess, and Xuantian Shangdi, the Emperor of the Dark Heaven.
Top tip: While Lungshan Temple is an excellent spot for photos, be respectful of worshippers. Avoid using flash and taking close-up pictures of people praying.
Admission and opening hours: Lungshan Temple is open daily from 6am-9pm, and admission is free.
6. Sample Taiwan’s Street Food at a Night Market
Taipei night markets are an essential part of Taiwanese life. Locals gather to eat, shop, and socialise. You’ll find everything from stinky tofu and bubble tea to beef noodles here. Some markets offer more exotic foods like snake soup and frog legs.
But whether you eat here or just stroll around, the atmosphere is a unique experience and one of the most fun things to do in Taipei.
With around 15-20 markets, the toughest part is deciding which one to visit when you’re short on time. Here are our three favourite Taipei night markets:
- Raohe Night Market – This is our top pick if you can only visit one. Located along the narrow Raohe Street, it’s packed with street food and drinks. Try the market’s famous pepper buns (or the stinky tofu if you’re up for it).
- Shilin Night Market – Our second choice. It’s the biggest market in Taipei, offering a mix of food stalls and shopping. It’s popular, so be ready for the crowds.
- Ningxia Night Market – This one is smaller but perfect if you want to avoid the crowds.
Top tip: Most night markets in Taipei open around 5pm and close between 11pm and 1am, so they’re perfect for a post-sightseeing snack. If you prefer fewer people, try to arrive when they first open.
7. Explore the Trendy Huashan 1914 Creative Park
Creative parks are a popular concept across Taiwan. They’re repurposed historic sites that have been transformed into cultural and artistic spaces.
One of the most unique examples is Huashan 1914 Creative Park, which began as a wine and sake distillery in 1914 before being abandoned for years. Today, it’s a popular destination for art exhibitions, cafés, and independent stores. We loved this mix of industrial and modern elements.
The park also hosts live music, film screenings, and even music festivals. If you’re interested in Taiwan’s creative side, Huashan 1914 is one of the best places to experience it firsthand.
Top tip: Saturdays and Sundays are the best days to catch events and performances. For fewer crowds, go on a weekday or early on a weekend.
Admission and opening hours: Entry to Huashan 1914 is free, and it’s open 24/7. Most shops operate from 11am to 9pm daily.
8. Discover the Shopping District of Ximending
Ximending is famous for its lively mix of shopping, food stalls, and restaurants. If you’ve been to Harajuku in Tokyo or Myeongdong in Seoul, you’ll know what kind of energy to expect.
By evening, it transforms into one of Taipei’s busiest nightlife hubs, packed with bars, karaoke spots, and nightclubs. The area is a favourite with young people, and you’ll often spot anime and video game fans dressed up as their favourite characters.
We loved that it’s a fully pedestrianised space, making it easy to explore at your own pace.
Top tip: If you’re after an Instagramable spot, don’t miss Rainbow Road. It’s a colourful street right off Exit 6 of Ximen Station.
9. Savour Dumplings at Din Tai Fung
Taiwan is a foodie’s paradise with some of the best food in Asia. And Din Tai Fung is one of its most famous exports, known for handcrafted xiao long bao (soup dumplings).
With over 170 branches in 14 countries, Din Tai Fung’s Shanghainese cuisine has earned a spot in the Michelin Guide and built a huge international following. But it all began in Taiwan.
Did you know? “Xiao long bao” translates to “small steamer bun”, named after the small bamboo baskets, or “xiao long”, used for steaming.
Back in 1958, founders Yang Bing-yi and Lai Pen-mei opened a cooking oil shop in Xinyi. When sales slowed, they pivoted to steamed dumplings in 1972. Their food quickly gained popularity, and Din Tai Fung’s fame spread worldwide.
We love Din Tai Fung’s food and have visited branches around the world, from Australia and the UAE to Singapore and the UK.
Naturally, one of the first things we did in Taipei was visit the original Din Tai Fung location on Xinyi Road. Although the original branch now only offers takeout, it was a thrill to see its roots. We crossed the street to their new, larger dine-in restaurant for a delicious meal.
When in Taipei, make sure you try their delicious food at one of their eight Taipei branches at least once!
10. Step Back in Time at Bopiliao Historical Block
We stumbled across Bopiliao Historical Block while exploring Taipei, and it turned out to be a great spot to explore. This lesser-known place is one of Taipei’s oldest preserved neighbourhoods, dating back to the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).
The architecture combines styles from the Qing Dynasty, Japanese occupation, and early 20th-century Taiwan.
Did you know? Bopiliao’s traditional streets have made it a popular filming location for period dramas and films, such as Monga and The Assassin.
Don’t miss the educational centre, where you can see exhibits on traditional medicine, daily life, and the city’s growth. It’s a fantastic way to learn about Taipei’s past while enjoying a charming, preserved neighbourhood.
Admission and opening hours: Entry to Bopiliao is free. The outdoor areas are open Tuesday-Sunday from 9am-9pm, and the indoor areas from 9am-6pm. The site is closed on Mondays.
11. Visit Songshan Cultural and Creative Park
Another creative park you should visit in Taipei is Songshan Cultural and Creative Park. It used to be a tobacco factory and is now a bustling hub for art and design.
Songshan has a more upscale, commercial feel than the edgier Huashan 1914. Here, the focus is on established brands and designers.
The architecture of this old factory has been beautifully restored. We really liked walking through the halls of this vast complex, browsing unique stores, and relaxing in cosy cafés. And the inside garden is a must-see!
Admission and opening hours: Entry to Songshan Cultural and Creative Park is free, and the outdoor space is open 24/7. Most shops operate from 11am to 6pm daily.
12. Wander Through the Historical Four Four South Village
Four Four South Village was originally built in the 1940s as a military village for the personnel and families of the 44th Arsenal. It was nearly demolished in the 1990s, but thankfully, local activists stepped in to save it. Today, it’s preserved as a cultural heritage site.
We expected the area to be larger, but the village is relatively small. Some of the original brick houses and narrow alleys remain, giving you a sense of what life was like back then.
Top tip: There’s a free museum in the heart of the village. Although most of the signs are in Mandarin, not English, it’s still worth visiting to see the artefacts and photographs.
The village now hosts cafés, craft shops, and creative workshops.
Located in the Xinyi district, where you’ll also find Taipei 101, it’s a great place to visit before or after checking out the observation deck.
Admission and opening hours: Entrance to Four Four South Village is free. The museum and most shops are open Tuesday through Sunday, from 9am-5pm, but closed on Mondays.
13. Take a Day Trip to Yehliu Geopark, Shifen, and Jiufen
If you’re only in Taipei for a short trip but want to see more of Taiwan, a day trip to the island’s northeast corner is the perfect option.
We highly recommend visiting Yehliu Geopark, Shifen, and Jiufen for a mix of nature, culture, and local charm. In our opinion, it’s one of the best day trips you can take from Taipei.
While you can make the journey by train or bus self-guided, we chose this organised tour with a local guide to make the most of our time.
Here are the highlights:
- Yehliu Geopark – Famous for its unique rock formations, including the iconic Queen’s Head, this place is a must-see for nature lovers.
- Shifen Waterfall – The largest waterfall in northern Taiwan, with a stunning 20-metre (66 feet) drop. It’s a peaceful spot to enjoy the scenery.
- Shifen Old Street – A fun place to set off a sky lantern, a local tradition where you send your wishes into the sky.
- Jiufen Old Street – Known for its traditional teahouses, this charming spot offers a taste of Taiwanese culture, though it can get very crowded.
While you could easily spend half a day to a full day at each location, we packed it all into one full day (and it was totally worth it!).
You can check the availability and pricing of organised day trips to Yehliu, Shifen and Jiufen here.
Interactive Map: 13 Best Places to Visit in Taipei
We’ve created an interactive map to help you visualise the locations and distances between the top attractions in Taipei. It features all the must-see spots mentioned in this post.
How to use this map: Click on the top left corner of the map to view the list of locations. For a larger view, open the map in a new tab by clicking on the top right corner. You can also save our map to your Google Maps by clicking the star next to the map title.
Other Sights & Activities Worth Checking Out
In this guide, we’ve highlighted the activities we consider the top things to experience in Taipei. However, if you have extra time during your trip, you might want to check out the items on the list below. These spots didn’t make our top picks but are still worth a visit:
Dalongdong Baoan Temple – This one is an excellent choice if you want to see more temples. It’s the second most beautiful (after Lungshan Temple) and less crowded, though it’s a bit further out.
Little South Gate – A short walk from Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, this reconstructed city gate gives you an idea of Taipei’s past.
Dihua Street – Stroll down Taipei’s oldest street, which is lined with traditional shops and historic buildings that offer a glimpse of the old city.
Beitou Hot Springs – If you’re in need of relaxation, Beitou’s hot springs are a perfect escape. Soak in natural hot springs while surrounded by lush greenery.
Confucius Temple – Located in the Datong district, this is another beautiful temple in Taipei and ranks among our top three.
National Dr. Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall – This grand memorial, dedicated to the founding father of the Republic of China, is set in a lovely park.
228 Peace Memorial Park – A peaceful park in the middle of the city.
Red House – A historic building in Ximending that’s now a cultural hub with art galleries, theatres, and quirky shops.
Maokong Gondola – Take a ride on this cable car for breathtaking views of Taipei and its tea plantations. It starts from the Taipei Zoo Metro station.
Best Time to Visit Taipei
Perfect month to visit: October
The best time to visit Taipei is typically October. The weather is mild and comfortable, with lower humidity and pleasant temperatures averaging around 26°C (79°F). This is after the summer heat and typhoon season, so it’s ideal for exploring the city and its outdoor attractions.
May is also an excellent time to visit, as the weather is still mild, and you’ll experience fewer crowds. It’s also the season for cherry blossoms, especially in parks and temples.
For alternative months, April and November are also excellent choices. These months offer pleasant temperatures and fewer tourists, making them very comfortable for sightseeing.
We recommend avoiding the summer months (June to early September) due to the intense heat and high humidity, which can make it less enjoyable to walk around in the city.
How Long to Stay in Taipei
Our recommendation: 3 full days
We recommend staying at least 3 full days in Taipei. This gives you enough time to visit the must-see spots, like Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum, and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.
If you can, add an extra day for a trip to nearby areas like Jiufen.
Getting Around Taipei
Taipei has many walkable neighbourhoods, but it’s a vast city with attractions spread across different areas. While you can easily walk around popular districts like Ximending and Daan, you’ll likely need to use public transportation to explore the city’s other top sights.
Luckily, Taipei has an excellent public transport system. The MRT (Metro) is the fastest way to travel between major attractions, with stops near places like Taipei 101 and Ximending. The MRT is clean, efficient, and easy to navigate, with signs in both Chinese and English.
For areas not covered by the MRT, buses and taxis are widely available. We also loved using Uber (e.g., to the National Palace Museum), which is very affordable compared to cities in the US or Europe.
Be sure to get an EasyCard when you arrive in Taiwan’s capital city. It’s a prepaid contactless travel card that works on the metro and buses.
Top tip: You can use Google Maps for walking directions and real-time public transport schedules in Taipei. Just ensure you have internet access. We used a data plan from Ubigi eSIM (our go-to provider) to stay connected wherever we went. You can learn more in our Ubigi review.
Where to Stay in Taipei
Best Neighbourhoods
With Taipei’s excellent public transport, it’s easy to get around. But staying in a central area will make your visit even more convenient.
If it’s your first time in Taipei, we recommend staying in one of these neighbourhoods:
- Da’an (our favourite area!) is perfect for those seeking a balance of city life and nature. It’s very central and has beautiful parks, local markets, and great restaurants.
- Xinyi is Taipei’s modern business district, home to luxury shopping malls and the iconic Taipei 101. It’s great for those who want to stay in a bustling, contemporary area.
- Datong is a historic district with a mix of traditional and modern elements. It’s known for its markets, temples, and cultural sites.
- Zhongsheng is an up-and-coming area with a mix of residential and business spaces. It offers a quieter stay while being close to major attractions.
- Zhongshan is a lively neighbourhood with shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It’s ideal for those wanting a mix of convenience and nightlife.
- Ximending is a vibrant area known for its street food, trendy shops, and lively atmosphere. It’s a great spot for anyone who enjoys energetic city vibes
Here’s an illustrated map of Taipei we created for you that shows the best areas for first-time visitors:
Check out our dedicated guide on the best areas and hotels in Taipei!
Recommended Hotels in Taipei
For a memorable stay in Taipei, here are two hotels we’d happily return to:
- MGH Mitsui Garden Hotel – We loved their spacious and spotless rooms, stunning floor-to-ceiling views, and unbeatable location right by the metro. (See hotel on Agoda or Booking.com)
- Kimpton Da An Taipei – A luxury boutique experience with elegant rooms, a central location, and an excellent breakfast. (See hotel on Agoda or Booking.com)
You can explore the full list of hotel options in Taipei on Agoda here or Booking.com here.
Our map below lets you browse accommodations and check real-time prices. It’s set to Da’an (our favourite neighbourhood in Taipei), but you can easily switch to explore other areas.
Final Thoughts on Taipei
Taipei is a fantastic city to explore, with bustling night markets, delicious food, and iconic landmarks. We spent seven days there during our Taiwan trip, and we’ll definitely be back to see (and eat) even more.
Taipei reminded us of a mix of Hong Kong and Singapore. Like Hong Kong, it has a skyline with impressive skyscrapers like Taipei 101, lively shopping districts like Ximending, and a great food scene. On the other hand, much like Singapore, Taipei offers clean, efficient public transport and an abundance of green spaces.
We hope this post has given you a good idea of what to expect and do in Taipei. We’re sure you’ll love it as much as we did.
Check out our other Taipei-related posts:
Flights: We never book a flight without checking 
Car Rental: We recommend 
