The Best 4-Day Taipei Itinerary (For First-Time Visitors)

Last updated on June 21st, 2026 at 04:42 pm

Raise your hand if you love boba?! Okay well even if you don’t (I get it, the texture freaks people out sometimes, including my own husband), you should definitely still find time to visit the birthplace of boba milk tea aka Taiwan! And lucky for you, I’ve put together the perfect 4-day Taipei itinerary to help you do exactly that. As some of you might know, Taiwan also holds a pretty special place in my heart as it’s where my parents were born before immigrating to the US.

Taipei is the capital and largest city on the island of Taiwan. The city itself is an economic powerhouse and a cultural behemoth, and Taipei is a very popular destination for travelers, particularly as a stopover for those traveling between North America and Europe to Australia or Asia. If you’re one of those quick-stopover travelers and only have a day, I’ve got a separate 24-hour Taipei layover guide that hits all the essentials in a single day.

If you’re coming from the west coast, it’s pretty common for people to stop for a night or two on their way to places like Bali, Thailand, Hong Kong, and other destinations in Asia. Singapore is another huge one. If it’s on your route, my 2-day Singapore itinerary (or 1-day version if you’re really short on time) pairs perfectly with a Taipei stop.

While the majority of people only stop for a short time, I definitely recommend staying for at least 4 whole days to get the entire Taipei / Taiwan experience. Spending 4 days in Taiwan really allows you to rest and recharge from your journey, enjoy some of the sightseeing opportunities, and tuck into some of the city’s best cuisine before continuing home or to your next destination.

In this article, I’ve put together all the information you need to plan a 4-day Taipei itinerary of your own. I’ll tell you the best time to visit Taipei, all the best activities, attractions, and restaurants to visit in Taipei and as always, I’ll include a list of my favorite boutique + luxury hotels to stay at. So let’s get into this unforgettable Taiwan itinerary 👇

Why should you listen to me? Well, both of my parents are born and raised here so you’re guaranteed to uncover some cool hidden gems during your Taiwan itinerary. I’ve also been visiting Taiwan annually so you can definitely trust me to help you navigate the streets safely!

Read more about Taiwan 🇹🇼

• 7-Day Taiwan Itinerary: A Complete Guide to One Week in Taiwan
• 24 Hours in Taipei: How to Spend a Layover in the Capital of Taiwan

This site contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you make a purchase through them (which will likely go towards overpriced airport wine or buying my dog more unnecessary toys). However, none of that impacts the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Spending 4 Days in Taipei at a Glance

Taipei Hotels: Quick Picks

I go into all of these hotels in way more detail later in the post but if you’re short on time — here are my top picks for hotels in my parent’s hometown of Taipei, Taiwan:

• W Taipei – One of my fave hotels in Taipei! Located right next to Taipei 101, this 5-star beauty has it all including an outdoor pool, spa, killer gym, and spacious rooms with insane city views. Perfect if you want luxury and convenience in one go.
• Hotel Eclat Taipei – For a more intimate 5-star experience, Hotel Eclat nails it. With only 60 rooms, it’s cozy yet luxe, featuring Nespresso machines, Dyson hairdryers, and top-notch amenities. Plus, it’s minutes from Taipei 101 and serves up an awesome buffet breakfast.
• Humble House Hotel Taipei – Part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, Humble House is all about warm vibes and sustainability. Taiwanese welcome drinks, natural ingredients at the restaurant, and cozy, high-quality wooden decor make this a comfy, culture-filled stay.
• MGH Mitsui Garden Hotel Taipei Zhongxiao – A high-rise hotel with panoramic views, a massive indoor bath, and a chill vibe. The restaurant serves Italian dishes, and the rooms are comfy with modern decor and big windows. Perfect for relaxation after exploring the city.
• CitizenM Taipei North Gate – This quirky 3-star punches way above its weight! With a superfast Wi-Fi setup, mood lighting, and king-size beds, CitizenM’s got everything you need, all in one sleek, modern package. Bonus: 24/7 bar and daily buffet breakfast.
• Capella Taipei – A BRAND-NEW luxury hotel that opened in April 2025, Capella Taipei is designed by André Fu as a “modern mansion.” Featuring 86 rooms and suites with elegant Asian-European flair and five dining venues, it’s perfect for travelers seeking fresh, design-forward luxury in the heart of Taipei. I seriously can’t wait to go back and stay hereeeee.

Best Time to Visit For Your 4-Day Taipei Itinerary

The best thing about Taipei is that it can be visited all year round! They experience relatively mild winters and summers that are hot, but bearable if it’s the only time you can go. (Most places have air conditioning but just be prepared for the humidity). It’s also worth knowing when some of the key festivals and events take place, as you might want to plan your visit around some of these things!

And if spending 4 days in Taiwan just isn’t in the cards for you (I get it. We don’t all have unlimited PTO). I still think making a quick stopover is totally worth it. I break down how to spend just 24 hours in Taipei for travelers passing through on a layover.

Visiting Taipei during summer/fall (June–November)

Summer in Taipei is hot, humid, and not for the faint of heart. Temperatures regularly climb past 85°F with what feels like 100% humidity (tbh I could also just be a baby about it because I’m a California native). It’s also typhoon season, so expect heavy rain and the occasional travel hiccup.

Should this stop you from going altogether? Absolutely not.

Just come prepared for multiple showers a day and DO NOT show up without this portable fan from Amazon. Trust me on this one.

Now if you want my actual insider tip: try visiting after September. The heat finally backs off (highs around 81°F, dropping into the low 70s), the typhoons mostly wrap up, and the crowds basically disappear. It’s hands down one of the most underrated times to visit and easily my pick for the best weather of the year.

Just pack a light jacket if you’re coming in November, because the evenings start getting a little crisp.

Visiting Taipei during winter/spring (December–May)

Winter in Taipei can bring the occasional chilly night (around 50°F), but overall it’s pretty mild, especially compared to most of Europe or the US. I personally love visiting this time of year because the flights are cheaper, it’s way less crowded, and the night markets and New Year celebrations are honestly at their best.

Just maybe avoid early February unless you want to share the city with the entire population during Lunar New Year.

If winter isn’t your thing, then spring can be a good sweet spot for your Taiwan itinerary. You get the best weather for sightseeing with comfortable temps ranging from 59–77°F, the city comes alive with cherry blossoms, and there’s always something going on like the Taipei Azalea Festival or the Dragon Boat Festival.

Top Boutique Hotels to Book for Your 4-Day Taipei Itinerary

To save you sifting through other travel blogs and websites, I’ve pulled together some of my favorite hotels in Taipei, all excellent places to consider during your visit to Taiwan. Hotels are honestly my favorite part of trip planning, so if you’re hotel-shopping for other Asia stops too, I’ve got similar deep dives on the best boutique hotels in Kyoto and where to stay in Beijing.

CitizenM Taipei North Gate (Zhongzheng District) – A design-driven budget stay that punches way above its price point, with comfy king beds, mood lighting, and a 24/7 bar overlooking the historic North Gate. If you like smart, efficient hotels and don’t need room variety, this one’s a no-brainer.
Check prices via ExpediaCheck prices via Booking.com

MGH Mitsui Garden Hotel Taipei Zhongxiao (Da’an District) – A polished, Japan-inspired hotel with a calming vibe, modern rooms, and a standout indoor public bath that’s perfect after long days exploring. Great value for travelers who want comfort, consistency, and an easy MRT location without splurging.
Check prices via ExpediaCheck prices via Booking.com

Kimpton Da An Hotel (Da’an District) – A stylish boutique hotel with a residential feel, known for its warm service, social vibe, and thoughtful details like complimentary evening wine hour. Ideal if you want something design-forward and relaxed that still feels upscale and very livable.
Check prices via ExpediaCheck prices via Booking.com

Humble House Hotel Taipei (Xinyi District) – Part of Hilton’s Curio Collection, this polished luxury hotel blends modern design with Taiwanese hospitality, including welcome drinks and a strong sustainability focus. The location near Taipei 101 makes it especially appealing for first-time visitors who want comfort and convenience.
Check prices via ExpediaCheck prices via Booking.com

Hotel Éclat Taipei (Da’an District) – An intimate, boutique luxury hotel with just 60 rooms, offering a quieter, more personal experience with high-end touches like Dyson hairdryers and Nespresso machines. Perfect if you want five-star comfort without the crowds of a large hotel.
Check prices via ExpediaCheck prices via Booking.com

W Taipei (Xinyi District) – One of my absolute favorite hotels in Taipei, with an unbeatable location next to Taipei 101, a buzzy atmosphere, and full-on luxury amenities from the pool to the gym. If you like modern energy, great views, and a hotel that feels like part of the city’s nightlife, this is it.
Check prices via ExpediaCheck prices via Booking.com

Capella Taipei (Zhongshan District) – Ultra-luxurious and serene, Capella Taipei is all about understated elegance, impeccable service, and refined design. This is the splurge stay for travelers who want a quiet, resort-like escape in the city and expect everything to feel flawless.
Check prices via ExpediaCheck prices via Booking.com

Top 10 Best Places to Visit & Things to Do During Your 4-Day Taipei Itinerary

Ok so you’ve booked your flights and set your dates for an upcoming trip to Taipei. Now it’s time to plan your 4-day Taipei Taiwan itinerary! Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, a culture lover, or someone who enjoys the great outdoors, this Taiwan travel guide has got you covered with activities that’ll make your visit unforgettable!

I’ll be honest, it was pretty hard to narrow down this list because there’s so much to see and do. But since this guide is mostly for first or second-time visitors to Taipei, I tried to position it as a Taipei hi-lights tour. Which includes a few tourist picks, but also some local hidden gems that are a bit more geared towards locals.

#1: Hike Elephant Mountain

So it’s probably pretty obvious by now that I’m into social media which also means I’m into taking pretty photos of just about everything. And this is why a short hike to Elephant Mountain is always my #1 recommendation to visitors of Taipei.

There aren’t a ton of “instagram worthy” photo spots in the city so Elephant Mountain is a must stop. At the top of the mountain, you can take in panoramic views of Taipei, including Taipei 101, and bust some jet lag along the way with an early morning hike up Elephant Mountain. Sunset is another popular time to visit, and the mountain is easily reached on the city metro. It’s literally the very last subway stop on the red line – Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) stop.

The trail takes just half an hour to complete and is fairly steep, but handrails and steps are in place to ensure a safe ascent. I’ve done this hike so many times I’ve lost count. And I’ve done it multiple times with both of my parents who are both in their 70s. So I’m serious when I say it’s for all ages.

You just might have to stop multiple times along the way but that’s part of the fun. There’s no bad view along the whole trail.

If you’re lucky enough to find yourself in Taipei for New Year’s, I’ve seen some incredible photos of people watching the fireworks over 101.

#2: Escape the summer heat with a sweet treat called Tshuah-ping (shaved ice)

Ok this is literally my favorite dessert in the entire world. If you follow me on Instagram, you’ll know that I have an INSATIABLE sweet tooth. Like, I would literally fly (and have actually flown) across the country just for this dessert.

This popular Taiwanese dessert is easy to find in Taipei, especially during the sweltering summer when it is needed most. Tshuah-ping is a dessert made from shaved ice, and topped with sugar water, condensed milk and seasonal fruit including mango or strawberry. The dish originated under Japanese rule when the Japanese colonized Taiwan in 1895, where they ran the island until after their surrender during WWII.

#3: Step back in time with a day trip to Jiufen

Okay maybe I was a bit harsh when I said that there aren’t that many Instagrammable spots in Taipei because Jiufen is definitely one of them. Although in my defense, it’s technically located a little bit outside of Taipei lol.

If you’ve never heard of Jiufen prior to visiting, then you should know it’s often referred to as the real-life Spirited Away. It’s a small mountain town located about an hour outside the city. You’ll notice that the town’s narrow, winding streets lined with red lanterns really do bear a striking resemblance to the film’s setting.

And if misty mountain towns are your thing, the landscapes in northern Vietnam scratch a similar itch. My epic North Vietnam itinerary goes deep on Sapa, Ninh Binh, and Ha Long Bay.

You’ll want to start at Jiufen Old Street, which is exactly as chaotic and wonderful as it sounds. Picture a narrow, lantern-lit alley packed shoulder-to-shoulder with stalls selling sweets, souvenirs, and handcrafted trinkets you absolutely do not need but will somehow buy anyway.

Pace yourself, because this is a snack-as-you-walk situation, not a sit-down-and-relax one. Grab some taro balls, try the peanut ice cream roll (it has cilantro in it which taste like soap to me but you can just ask for it sans cilantro), and don’t skip the fish ball soup.

A quick heads up: weekends and holidays turn the Old Street into a human traffic jam, so if you can swing by on a weekday morning, do it.

Jiufen used to be a booming gold mining town back in the day, and there are throwbacks to that era everywhere if you know where to look. The Gold Museum over in nearby Jinguashi is genuinely fascinating. You can see a giant 220kg gold ingot, poke around the old mining tunnels, and learn how this sleepy mountain town used to be the richest place in the region.

It’s about a 15-minute bus ride from the Old Street, so it’s an easy add-on if you’ve got the time.

While you’re up there, the views are the real reason to come. Jiufen is stacked into the hillside overlooking the ocean, and on a clear day it’s stunning. Hit up one of the famous teahouses (the A-Mei Teahouse is the one everyone photographs, though the tea is a bit pricey for what it is) and watch the fog roll in over the mountains.

For the more adventurous, there are plenty of hiking trails snaking around the town. Teapot Mountain (yes, it actually looks like a teapot) is the popular one and gives you killer panoramic views, but be warned, it’s a proper climb and not a casual stroll.

Okay, so I hope you’re sold on Jiufen by now, but actually getting there is its own little adventure with about five different ways to do it. But lucky for you, I did all the research (via old-school Google and my wonderful dad) and compiled the best ways to get there for you below👇

Top-rated Taipei to Jiufen day tours

The hardest part about traveling (for me) is always the research aspect. Well…maybe hard isn’t the right word because I genuinely love the planning part. But i know that not everyone does.

So to make things easy, I’ve rounded up a list of the best Taipei to Jiufen day trips I could find. All of these come highly recommended with REAL 5-star reviews from travelers from around the world. Including some of my own friends, family, and other travel bloggers too!

#4: Explore Longshan Temple

As one of Taipei’s oldest and most visited temples, Longshan Temple is a must-see cultural landmark to include in your Taiwan itinerary. Built in 1738, it showcases traditional Chinese architecture, complete with intricate carvings and sculptures. Dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, the temple also features shrines and statues representing Taoism and other faiths, reflecting Taiwan’s rich religious diversity. This is a standout stop in any Taiwan travel guide for those seeking to explore the island’s cultural heritage.

Ps. If you love temple-hopping, you’ll find a whole different side of Chinese architecture in Beijing. I cover the best ones in my 3-day Beijing itinerary. And if you want to see how Japan does temples, my 2-day Kyoto itinerary walks through the most beautiful ones in the country.

#5: Explore the Shilin Night Market and join a food tour

Okay so you hopefully know by now that Taiwan is known for its incredible food scene. If you live in a major city, then you’re probably lucky enough to get a taste of Taiwanese food already but if you don’t…then you HAVE to check out the night markets for the food.

And even if you live in a major city like San Francisco or New York like I do…there’s still nothing that compares to the true energy and vibe of a night market in Asia. It’s a wild experience and such a vibe. And Taipei is home to 20+ different night markets. And each one is so different!!! And if street food is your love language like it is mine, you’ll feel right at home in Osaka too. I cover the city’s best eats in my 2-day Osaka itinerary.

Taipei’s night markets are the beating heart of the city after dark, where locals and tourists pack narrow lanes to graze on street food, shop for cheap clothes and trinkets, and play carnival-style games late into the night. Each market has its own personality, from sprawling tourist hubs to compact local favorites, and they’re one of the best (and cheapest) ways to experience the city’s food culture.

Shilin Night Market is the biggest and most famous, a maze of food stalls and shopping that draws huge crowds and is a must-hit for first-timers. Raohe Night Market is more compact and walkable, and it’s known mostly for its food. Many locals (like my dad) consider it the best balance of authenticity and accessibility, and less chaotic than Shilin. Shida Night Market is the smallest and most local of the three, sitting near National Taiwan Normal University, so it skews younger with a student vibe, trendy boutiques, and cheap eats.

Thanks to my parents forcing me into kindergarten not knowing a lick of English, I can speak conversational Mandarin when I travel to Taiwan. But having been with friends, former flight attendants, and my own South African husband – I know how overwhelming a visit to Taiwan can be as a foreigner. Especially to a night market where all the food signs are in Mandarin and people are yelling and screaming.

So I definitely recommend joining a food tour to get the full experience. It’s nice not having to use Google Translate for every sign you come across and a lot of the guides know the vendors personally. So you’ll often get bigger portions and samples of food that you wouldn’t normally get if you went on your own.

I’ve actually only ever done the Shida Night Market tour which is the smallest of the three I mentioned earlier. But I really liked that it’s much smaller than the other two. It feels way more authentic and it’s next to one of my favorite streets in Taipei, Yongkang Street, where you can get the best beef noodle soup and mango shaved ice. We had Skyler as our guide and she was fantastic and FUNNY!

I already knew I was going to love the food because I’ve grown up eating Taiwanese food my whole life but I loved that Skyler explained a ton of the history during the Shida Night Market tour. (Things my parents did NOT explain to me haha). The whole experienced lasted 3 hours and is super affordable at less than ~$60 USD/person! I booked tickets directly via GetYourGuide, but you can also find Skyler and team on Viator if you prefer to book through there!

Top-rated Taipei night market tours

#6: Pay Hello Kitty a Visit at Her Very Own 7-Eleven

This next recommendation miiiight be for the girlies only but hey you never know. Hello Kitty is an icon for a reason, especially in Taiwan. Which I always found funny because I’m pretty sure she’s originally from Japan.

Speaking of kawaii (cute) Japan-coded experiences, if you’re continuing on to Tokyo, the Pokemon Cafe is another must-do for anyone who loves themed cafes.

But regardless, have you ever seen such a cute 7-11? We definitely don’t have these here in America let me tell you. If you love cute things, then you need to pay a visit to the Hello Kitty 7-Eleven near Ximending.

📍No. 73號, Section 2, Hankou St, Fuxing Village, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108

The whole place is painted pink with a rainbow ceiling, and a 170cm Hello Kitty figure greets you at the entrance holding her own exclusive coffee cup, because of course she does. The walls, the ceilings, the shelves, all of it is covered in Hello Kitty and her Sanrio crew (My Melody, Pompompurin, Cinnamoroll, the gang’s all here).

You can grab a coffee in a themed cup, snag some exclusive plushies and merch, and even buy Sanrio-themed EasyCards to flex on every MRT ride for the rest of your trip. There’s even a small sit-down area, so you can grab a small snack surrounded by cartoon cats, which is a sentence I never thought I’d write but here we are.

#7: Take in the view from Taipei 101

When it opened in 2004, Taipei 101 was known as the Taipei World Financial Centre. It was also the tallest building in the world, although it’s now dropped to number 11 on that list, behind structures including the UAE’s Burj Khalifa and China’s Shanghai Tower (the Chinese just couldn’t allow that record to stand, could they!) Even at #11, the tower continues to dominate the Taipei skyline.

Riding up to the 89^th floor observatory to enjoy panoramic views of the city is one of the best things to do when you arrive for the first time.

Pro tip: buy entry tickets in advance so that you’re not stuck for hours waiting in line (especially during the summer heat).

#8: Take a thrilling day trip to Taroko Gorge

The benefit of Taiwan being a densely packed island is that there are numerous great options for day trips, so you can see even more of Taiwan during your stay in Taipei. A popular day trip is Taroko Gorge National Park, home to some of the island’s finest scenery and rich biodiversity including flocks of swallows thousands strong. The Baiyang Trail leads you through dark rock tunnels before emerging at a spectacular waterfall, and there are numerous suspension bridges taking you across azure blue water.

The National Park is also conveniently located near Hualien, which, in my opinion, is the most beautiful part of Taiwan. Just look at the color of the water in the picture above ⬆️

If you have more than four days to spare on your Taiwan itinerary, I highly recommend spending a night or two on the east side of the island in Hualien. It holds a special place in my heart as it’s where my dad grew up, and I love spending time here by the ocean.

In fact, this is exactly the kind of detour I build out in my complete 7-day Taiwan itinerary, so check that out if you want to give Hualien and the east coast of Taiwan the time it deserves.

But if time is tight, then a day trip to Hualien / Taroko Gorge is a great way to explore the park without missing out – definitely something to consider when planning your Taiwan travel guide.

Top-rated Taipei to Taroko Gorge day tours

#9: Ride the Maokong Gondola

Soar above Taipei’s bustling streets on the Maokong Gondola! This is definitely a tourist attraction but I still thought it was pretty cool. Also because my dad and I ended up venturing off the beaten path once we got to the top.

This scenic cable car whisks you up to the Maokong tea plantations, offering breathtaking panoramic views along the way. Choose a standard gondola or opt for the thrilling “Eyes of Maokong” with a transparent floor for an unforgettable experience. At the top, unwind in a charming teahouse, savor local delicacies, and explore hiking trails – all within easy reach of the city.

#10: Visit the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

If you’ve been following me for awhile, you’ll know that I’m a huge history nerd so it’s fitting to want to visit a museum during the trip. This impressive national monument is one of the top attractions in Taipei city, commemorating the island’s former president Chiang Kai-shek. The grand white building has an impressive octagonal blue roof and is located within a tranquil park. Inside, you’ll find a museum and a changing of the guard ceremony that’s a popular tourist attraction. 

Last I checked, there is a changing of the guard ceremony every hour on the hour starting from 9am and ending at 5pm. The surrounding park of the memorial hall is also a lively space for locals and visitors to gather and relax.

If you get hungry during your visit, there’s also a few snack and tea vendors inside including CoCo, Mr. Xia Soft Tofu, and the Agarwood Restaurant. For those interested in seeing more Chinese artifacts and/or artwork, the National Palace Museum is also a nearby top-rated attraction.

Where to Eat & Drink During Your 4-Day Taipei Itinerary

I promised you a more local’s perspective on Taipei – and that “local” is my 70-year old dad that grew up in this city. So I’m going to be honest in that the food and restaurant recommendations I share are what WE love to eat. They’re not gonna be listed or found in any “Top Dining Spots” Guide or any Bon Appetit mags. And that’s okay.

(If you’re hitting more of Asia on this trip, I take the same insider approach with my must-try foods in Singapore guide too).

So if you want some authentic recommendations from a REAL Taiwanese native, then check out these Top 3 food spots in Taipei that we love 💕

鵝肉城活海鮮

📍鵝肉城活海鮮
No. 77號, Liaoning St, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 104
Google Maps Link

No English translation? Yep that’s how you know it’s good. And this is the #1 restaurant that my dad and all his old pals from high school get together at. Which means I also get dragged to it when I visit but I LOVE IT. The food is so good and the ambiance is fun AF. You’re really getting the true Taiwanese experience here.

鵝肉城活海鮮 is a lively, long-standing Taiwanese seafood and stir-fry spot in Taipei’s Liaoning Street night market that’s perfect for group dinners and casual nights out. Known for its generous portions of fresh seafood and tender goose meat, you can even pick live seafood right from the tank before it’s cooked.

The menu is huge and the vibe is energetic, making it ideal for pairing beers with big plates of hot-off-the-wok classics. Locals and visitors alike love it for its value and buzz, though not every dish is a home run, so go with the crowd favorites and enjoy it as a classic Taipei dining experience 🍻

小張清燉紅燒牛肉麵民族店

📍小張清燉紅燒牛肉麵民族店
No. 174號, Minzu Rd, Xindian District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 231
Google Maps Link

Another place without an English translation lol. It’s probably because the best part about Taiwan is that every food spot can hit hard. And it’s rarely anything fancy!!!

小張清燉紅燒牛肉麵民族店 is a classic no-frills beef noodle joint in New Taipei’s Xindian district that I love. I’m obsessed with their beef noodle soup here (pictured above). And if you have an Asian palette like I do… the real MVPs are the braised sides (think beef tendon, dou-gan, seaweed) that honestly elevate the whole meal. And you’re guaranteed to walk away extremely full for under $8 USD!

Din Tai Fung

📍Din Tai Fung (there are multiple locations but the Xinyi Branch is the OG)
No. 194號, Section 2, Xinyi Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106
Google Maps Link

No list would be complete without naming the 1st restaurant in Taiwan to have won a Michelin Star. If you’ve never been to one of the locations in the states, then you NEED to visit while in Taipei. You can even watch the chefs making the xiaolongbao dumplings firsthand from the front of the restaurant. These delicate soup dumplings, bursting with flavor, are a true taste sensation. Beyond dumplings, the menu boasts a variety of authentic Taiwanese dishes, all prepared with meticulous attention to detail. Be prepared for a long wait though, as this renowned restaurant is always in high demand. But trust us, it’s worth it!

Taipei, Taiwan FAQ

To help you plan the best 4-day Taipei itinerary, here are some commonly asked questions for first time visitors to Taipei, Taiwan 🇹🇼 

Do I need a visa to visit Taiwan?

U.S. citizens do not need a visa to visit Taiwan for tourism stays up to 90 days. You’ll just need a passport that is valid for the duration of your stay and proof of onward travel. Most travelers simply receive visa-free entry when arriving at the airport.

What’s the best time of year to visit Taipei?

The best time to visit Taipei is October through April, when the weather is cooler and less humid. Fall and spring are especially pleasant for walking around temples, night markets, and neighborhoods. Summers in Taipei can be very hot, humid, and rainy, with occasional typhoons between June and September.

What’s the currency and do places take credit cards?

Taiwan uses the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). Credit cards are widely accepted at hotels, malls, and many restaurants, but smaller local spots, night market stalls, and street food vendors usually prefer cash. As an American traveler, it’s a good idea to withdraw some TWD from an ATM when you arrive.

How do you get from Taoyuan Airport (TPE) to Taipei city center?

The easiest way to get from Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) to Taipei is the Airport MRT train, which takes about 35–40 minutes to Taipei Main Station. I’m normally a taxi girl but I promise the MRT is so easy that it’s kinda pointless to sit in traffic in a taxi unless you have a TON of luggage.

Trains run frequently and are affordable. Taxis and airport buses are also available, but the MRT is typically the fastest and most convenient option. This is also why a Taipei layover is so doable!

If you’ve only got 24 hours between flights, you can be in the city in under 40 minutes. I put together a full Taipei layover guide if that’s your situation.

Do people in Taipei speak English?

Many people in Taipei speak basic to moderate English, especially younger residents and those working in tourism. MRT stations, transportation signs, and many restaurant menus include English. While not everyone is fluent, American travelers generally find it easy to get around.

Is the MRT easy to use and understand as a visitor?

Yes. Taipei’s MRT system is one of the easiest metro systems in Asia for visitors. Stations have English signage, color-coded lines, and clear announcements. Trains are clean, efficient, and connect most major attractions, making it the best way for tourists to get around the city.

Is Taipei safe for solo travelers?

Yes. Taipei is widely considered one of the safest major cities in the world. Violent crime is extremely rare, and it’s common to see people walking around late at night. Solo travelers and night market explorers generally feel very comfortable exploring the city after dark.

What neighborhoods should first-time visitors stay in?

First-time visitors to Taipei often stay in Xinyi, Zhongzheng, or Da’an.

• Xinyi is the modern district near Taipei 101 with luxury hotels, shopping, and nightlife.
• Zhongzheng is central and convenient near Taipei Main Station for transportation.
• Da’an (my personal favorite) offers trendy cafés, restaurants, and a more local neighborhood

How many days do you need in Taipei?

4 days duh!!! Since this is a 4-day Taipei itinerary ya know! But seriously, 4 days in Taipei is a really good amount of time to spend before exploring more of the country or continuing on to somewhere else in Asia.

4 days in Taipei gives you enough time to visit Taipei 101, night markets, temples, museums, and local neighborhoods, while also leaving room for a popular day trip like Jiufen or Shifen.

That said, if you want to see more of the island beyond the capital, I’d bump it up to a full week. My 7-day Taiwan itinerary shows you exactly how and where to spend that extra time.

4-Days in Taipei, Taiwan: Final Thoughts

Taipei is a hugely welcoming city, and its location makes it an ideal stopover destination for long haul travelers. Whether you’re making a special trip or just tacking on a few days to get over your jet lag, you are sure to find Taipei an inviting city to explore. With incredible culture on the doorstep, easily accessible outdoor adventures and a burgeoning food scene, Taipei promises to deliver a fantastic 4-day itinerary that will leave you wanting more.

Did you get a chance to visit Taipei? Let me know in the comments below!

Only in Taipei for a 24-Hour Layover?

Check out this post on the best way to spend a layover in the capital of Taiwan.

Visiting Other Parts of Asia?

Check out my other travel guides on Asia here.

Looking for Travel Inspiration to Somewhere Else?

Check out all my international travel guides here!