A First-Timer’s Guide To The Best 4-Day Itinerary in Taipei, Taiwan
Last updated on October 26th, 2024 at 07:15 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 fiance), you should definitely still find time to visit the birthplace of boba milk tea aka Taiwan! 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 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.
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 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, if you’re planning a Taipei layover on your next trip, read on!
This site contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links however, this has no impact on the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Best Time to Visit Taipei
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!
Winter/Spring in Taipei
While winter in Taipei can bring occasional chilly nights (around 50°F), the temperature is generally mild overall, especially when compared to most of Europe or The US. I think winter is a great time to experience the city’s vibrant night markets and New Year celebrations. I personally always try to visit during this time because flights are cheaper and it’s less crowded (unless you go around February for Lunar New Year).
If you can’t make it during winter, then I would suggest visiting during spring. Spring offers the best weather for sightseeing, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 59-77°F. Witness the city erupt in blooms, including cherry blossoms, and enjoy festivals like the Taipei Azalea Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival. While there are a ton of events going on during this time, you should be prepared for larger crowds and potentially higher costs during this season.
Summer in Taipei
Summer in Taipei lasts from June to August and is characterized by hot and humid conditions. Temperatures often exceed 85°F with what feels like 100% humidity (tbh I could also just be a baby because I’m a California native). It’s also typhoon season, so travelers should prepare for heavy rainfall and some disruption during their travels. Should this stop you from traveling to Taipei altogether? Definitely not but just be prepared for multiple showers a day and make sure you don’t visit without investing in this portable fan.
Best Places to Stay During 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.
Ps. I exclusively use Safara to book all of my hotels ever since Hotels.com changed their loyalty program (which is absolute crap now). Their rewards program used to be great but now you barely get any points or rewards even if you spend thousands with them. Safara immediately gives you $100 for signing up and up to 10% cash back on every single booking. It’s also a really cool startup that my old coworker’s husband created so I love getting to support them at the same time.
Seriously – run don’t walk to Safara Travel.
W Taipei – Hands down one of my favorite hotels in Taipei!! Perched atop the Taipei City Hall Station and just steps away from Taipei 101, the location of the 5-star W Taipei is absolutely unbeatable. We’re a Marriott family now so this is definitely my top recommendation for travelers, even if you aren’t a Bonvoy member. Boasting an outdoor pool and terrace, spa and a world class gym, it’s got everything you need for a luxury stay in Taipei. Each of the 405 rooms are spacious and modern, with signature bedding, flat-screen TV and floor-to-ceiling windows from which to soak up incredible city views.
Hotel Eclat Taipei – For a more intimate 5-star offering, Hotel Eclat Taipei’s 60 rooms offer a welcoming feel, well equipped with 50-inch TV, Nespresso coffee machine, top quality bathroom amenities and Dyson hairdryer. Location is excellent, just a few minutes from Taipei 101 and complimentary Wi-Fi is offered throughout the property. A quality buffet breakfast is served daily in the onsite restaurant, which is also open for lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and drinks.
Humble House Hotel Taipei – There’s nothing particularly humble about Humble House Hotel, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection. Dedicated to conveying Asian culture to guests, this hotel goes to great lengths to ensure warm hospitality, including Taiwanese welcome drinks on arrival for all guests. There’s a focus on sustainability, with only natural and sustainably sourced ingredients used in the onsite restaurant. Humble House rooms feature high-quality wooden décor, TV with complimentary pay TV movies and down bedding for extra comfort.
MGH Mitsui Garden Hotel Taipei Zhongxiao – MGH Mitsui Garden Hotel Taipei Zhongxiao is a high-rise hotel that features a massage parlor, a large indoor public bath (separate for men and women), and panoramic views over the city. The onsite restaurant serves a buffet breakfast and a la carte Italian menu for lunch and dinner, including pizza, pasta, risotto and more. The onsite bar is open until 11pm daily and rooms at the hotel are equipped with bathtubs, modern décor and floor to ceiling windows.
CitizenM Taipei North Gate – CitizenM is a brand that I love due to its quirkiness. I often stay at the New York location when I visit for work. This 3-star is masquerading as a 4-star, with comfort levels far exceeding those you might expect for a budget hotel. Overlooking the historic North Gate, CitizenM Taipei North Gate features a 24/7 bar, complimentary Wi-Fi and an onsite restaurant, including daily buffet breakfast. There are no rooms types here, all rooms are identical, boasting superfast Wi-Fi, mood lighting, king-size beds, power shower and blackout blinds.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in Taipei
Ok so you’ve booked your flights and you have some dates lined up to visit Taipei in the future. Now we need some activities to fill your 4-day Taipei itinerary when you arrive. Whether you’re into history, food, culture or the great outdoors, I guarantee there’s something on this list that’ll interest you!
#1 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 89th 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 your tickets from GetYourGuide in advance so that you’re not stuck at the entrance, waiting in line.
#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 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 close to Hualien, which is the most beautiful part of the country (in my opinion). If you have more than 4 days, I’d highly recommend spending a night or two on the east side of the island. It’s where my dad grew up so I love getting to spend time here near the ocean! (If time is of the essence, then I recommend booking this day trip tour via GetYourGuide to see the park)
#4 Explore Longshan Temple
As one of Taipei’s oldest and most visited temples, Longshan is an excellent cultural monument to squeeze into your itinerary. Dating back to 1738, it was constructed using traditional Chinese architecture and is filled with intricate carvings and sculptures. Dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, it also houses shrines and statues dedicated to Taoism and other faiths, in a nod to Taiwan’s complex religious diversity.
#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.
Taipei’s largest and most famous night market is well worth a visit to taste sumptuous local street food and experience traditional Taiwan as more than 500 traders and vendors sell their wares to locals and tourists alike. Consider joining a Taipei food tour, which is likely to bring you to the market to taste local delicacies, freshly prepared on the street.
I personally haven’t done a food tour since I speak the language and can get around fine, BUT a ton of my friends have and they recommended booking this one.
#6 Hike Elephant Mountain
So obviously you know I’m into social media which is why this 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. 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. Sunset is another popular time to visit, and the mountain is easily reached on the city metro.
If you’re lucky enough to be here for new year’s, I’ve seen some incredible photos of people watching the fireworks over 101.
#7 Rejuvenate the body and mind at Beitou Hot Springs
Located in the far north of Taipei, on the edge of the city, the Beitou Hot Springs are easily reached by public transport and are a great option for those looking to relax and embrace wellness during their Taipei trip. Visitors to the springs can soak in the naturally heated water, said to have healing properties. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city and can offer a relaxing detox during your stay in Taipei.
A day trip is easily doable but I’d also recommend spending a night here that way you don’t feel rushed. Beitou kind of reminds me of Japan, with a bunch of zen gardens and tranquil spas. It’s definitely a good alternative if you can’t get to Japan anytime soon.
#8 Step back in time with a day trip to Jiufen
Jiufen, a mountain town in Taiwan, is often called the real-life Spirited Away. The town’s narrow, winding streets lined with red lanterns do bear a striking resemblance to the film’s setting. Escape modern Taipei and enjoy a history lesson with a day trip to Jiufen. Located around an hour out of the city, this mountain town is known for its traditional teahouses, narrow warren of streets and stunning views over the Pacific Ocean.
A former gold mining hub, there are many throwbacks to this time, including a fascinating Gold Museum. You will probably want to start at the Old Street, and meander through this bustling marketplace to see stalls selling sweets, souvenirs and handcrafted trinkets.
For the more adventurous, there are numerous hiking trails surrounding the town, and it’s possible to enjoy an exploration of Jiufen and a hike and still make it back to Taipei for the early evening. I highly recommend booking this day trip to visit Jiufen or you can hire private transportation to take you around the area.
#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: Best Restaurants in Taipei
To finish off, here are a couple of suggested dining options for you in Taipei. The city has a great dining scene, and there are hundreds of fantastic restaurants to choose from, plus innumerable street food vendors serving fresh and cheap local cuisine.
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!
Many of the best restaurants are those where you get absolutely zero say in what you order. When a restaurant specializes in just one dish, and that’s what you have. Ay-Chung Flour Rice Noodles is one such establishment, serving only Taiwan-style vermicelli with braised pork intestine. That might make you squeamish, but seriously, don’t knock until you’ve tried. The pork is incredibly tender and well-seasoned, and portions are a good size at this popular Taipei food stall. It’s a great option for a nourishing meal on the go in the city.
For a more up-market (and expensive) dinner in the city, RyuGin Taipei is one of the best places in Taipei to enjoy kaiseki, a traditional, multi-course Japanese meal. Head chef Seiji Yamamoto has three coveted Michelin stars to his name, and he’s pulled together a menu using only the finest Taiwanese ingredients in his Taipei restaurant – there’s a reason he’s at #5 on the Le Chef’s ranking of the 100 Best Chefs in the World (2019).
Is Taipei safe?
This is another common question asked by travelers. The relationship between Taipei and Beijing is often in the news, and China has an aggressively stated aim of reintegrating Taiwan. This goes against the US policy of maintaining the status quo, which is the semi-independence that the island nation currently enjoys. Taiwan is well-armed by the United States and any war would be extremely difficult for China to win – diplomacy has long been seen as the more likely solution to finding a breakthrough. Although there is always the possibility of conflict, the status quo has been maintained peacefully for many years, and the eruption of conflict in the near future seems unlikely. It would be even more unlikely for this to happen without warning. If planning a trip to Taiwan, do keep across political developments and ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance. However, it is incredibly unlikely that these issues should affect your trip.
Geopolitics aside, Taipei is one of the safest cities in the world. It has very little crime, excellent healthcare and fast, reliable public transportation. Friendly locals add to the security of the city, and the pro-Western nature of the island means that visitors from Europe and particularly the United States are generally welcomed to Taipei with open arms by the local population.
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.
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?
Last updated on October 26th, 2024 at 07:15 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 fiance), you should definitely still find time to visit the birthplace of boba milk tea aka Taiwan! 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 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.
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 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, if you’re planning a Taipei layover on your next trip, read on!
This site contains affiliate links. I may receive a small commission for purchases made through these links however, this has no impact on the integrity of my reviews. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Best Time to Visit Taipei
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!
Winter/Spring in Taipei
While winter in Taipei can bring occasional chilly nights (around 50°F), the temperature is generally mild overall, especially when compared to most of Europe or The US. I think winter is a great time to experience the city’s vibrant night markets and New Year celebrations. I personally always try to visit during this time because flights are cheaper and it’s less crowded (unless you go around February for Lunar New Year).
If you can’t make it during winter, then I would suggest visiting during spring. Spring offers the best weather for sightseeing, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 59-77°F. Witness the city erupt in blooms, including cherry blossoms, and enjoy festivals like the Taipei Azalea Festival and the Dragon Boat Festival. While there are a ton of events going on during this time, you should be prepared for larger crowds and potentially higher costs during this season.
Summer in Taipei
Summer in Taipei lasts from June to August and is characterized by hot and humid conditions. Temperatures often exceed 85°F with what feels like 100% humidity (tbh I could also just be a baby because I’m a California native). It’s also typhoon season, so travelers should prepare for heavy rainfall and some disruption during their travels. Should this stop you from traveling to Taipei altogether? Definitely not but just be prepared for multiple showers a day and make sure you don’t visit without investing in this portable fan.
Best Places to Stay During 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.
Ps. I exclusively use Safara to book all of my hotels ever since Hotels.com changed their loyalty program (which is absolute crap now). Their rewards program used to be great but now you barely get any points or rewards even if you spend thousands with them. Safara immediately gives you $100 for signing up and up to 10% cash back on every single booking. It’s also a really cool startup that my old coworker’s husband created so I love getting to support them at the same time.
Seriously – run don’t walk to Safara Travel.
W Taipei – Hands down one of my favorite hotels in Taipei!! Perched atop the Taipei City Hall Station and just steps away from Taipei 101, the location of the 5-star W Taipei is absolutely unbeatable. We’re a Marriott family now so this is definitely my top recommendation for travelers, even if you aren’t a Bonvoy member. Boasting an outdoor pool and terrace, spa and a world class gym, it’s got everything you need for a luxury stay in Taipei. Each of the 405 rooms are spacious and modern, with signature bedding, flat-screen TV and floor-to-ceiling windows from which to soak up incredible city views.
Hotel Eclat Taipei – For a more intimate 5-star offering, Hotel Eclat Taipei’s 60 rooms offer a welcoming feel, well equipped with 50-inch TV, Nespresso coffee machine, top quality bathroom amenities and Dyson hairdryer. Location is excellent, just a few minutes from Taipei 101 and complimentary Wi-Fi is offered throughout the property. A quality buffet breakfast is served daily in the onsite restaurant, which is also open for lunch, afternoon tea, dinner and drinks.
Humble House Hotel Taipei – There’s nothing particularly humble about Humble House Hotel, part of Hilton’s Curio Collection. Dedicated to conveying Asian culture to guests, this hotel goes to great lengths to ensure warm hospitality, including Taiwanese welcome drinks on arrival for all guests. There’s a focus on sustainability, with only natural and sustainably sourced ingredients used in the onsite restaurant. Humble House rooms feature high-quality wooden décor, TV with complimentary pay TV movies and down bedding for extra comfort.
MGH Mitsui Garden Hotel Taipei Zhongxiao – MGH Mitsui Garden Hotel Taipei Zhongxiao is a high-rise hotel that features a massage parlor, a large indoor public bath (separate for men and women), and panoramic views over the city. The onsite restaurant serves a buffet breakfast and a la carte Italian menu for lunch and dinner, including pizza, pasta, risotto and more. The onsite bar is open until 11pm daily and rooms at the hotel are equipped with bathtubs, modern décor and floor to ceiling windows.
CitizenM Taipei North Gate – CitizenM is a brand that I love due to its quirkiness. I often stay at the New York location when I visit for work. This 3-star is masquerading as a 4-star, with comfort levels far exceeding those you might expect for a budget hotel. Overlooking the historic North Gate, CitizenM Taipei North Gate features a 24/7 bar, complimentary Wi-Fi and an onsite restaurant, including daily buffet breakfast. There are no rooms types here, all rooms are identical, boasting superfast Wi-Fi, mood lighting, king-size beds, power shower and blackout blinds.
Best Places to Visit & Things to do in Taipei
Ok so you’ve booked your flights and you have some dates lined up to visit Taipei in the future. Now we need some activities to fill your 4-day Taipei itinerary when you arrive. Whether you’re into history, food, culture or the great outdoors, I guarantee there’s something on this list that’ll interest you!
#1 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 89th 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 your tickets from GetYourGuide in advance so that you’re not stuck at the entrance, waiting in line.
#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 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 close to Hualien, which is the most beautiful part of the country (in my opinion). If you have more than 4 days, I’d highly recommend spending a night or two on the east side of the island. It’s where my dad grew up so I love getting to spend time here near the ocean! (If time is of the essence, then I recommend booking this day trip tour via GetYourGuide to see the park)
#4 Explore Longshan Temple
As one of Taipei’s oldest and most visited temples, Longshan is an excellent cultural monument to squeeze into your itinerary. Dating back to 1738, it was constructed using traditional Chinese architecture and is filled with intricate carvings and sculptures. Dedicated to the Buddhist Goddess of Mercy, it also houses shrines and statues dedicated to Taoism and other faiths, in a nod to Taiwan’s complex religious diversity.
#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.
Taipei’s largest and most famous night market is well worth a visit to taste sumptuous local street food and experience traditional Taiwan as more than 500 traders and vendors sell their wares to locals and tourists alike. Consider joining a Taipei food tour, which is likely to bring you to the market to taste local delicacies, freshly prepared on the street.
I personally haven’t done a food tour since I speak the language and can get around fine, BUT a ton of my friends have and they recommended booking this one.
#6 Hike Elephant Mountain
So obviously you know I’m into social media which is why this 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. 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. Sunset is another popular time to visit, and the mountain is easily reached on the city metro.
If you’re lucky enough to be here for new year’s, I’ve seen some incredible photos of people watching the fireworks over 101.
#7 Rejuvenate the body and mind at Beitou Hot Springs
Located in the far north of Taipei, on the edge of the city, the Beitou Hot Springs are easily reached by public transport and are a great option for those looking to relax and embrace wellness during their Taipei trip. Visitors to the springs can soak in the naturally heated water, said to have healing properties. Surrounded by lush greenery, it’s far removed from the hustle and bustle of the city and can offer a relaxing detox during your stay in Taipei.
A day trip is easily doable but I’d also recommend spending a night here that way you don’t feel rushed. Beitou kind of reminds me of Japan, with a bunch of zen gardens and tranquil spas. It’s definitely a good alternative if you can’t get to Japan anytime soon.
#8 Step back in time with a day trip to Jiufen
Jiufen, a mountain town in Taiwan, is often called the real-life Spirited Away. The town’s narrow, winding streets lined with red lanterns do bear a striking resemblance to the film’s setting. Escape modern Taipei and enjoy a history lesson with a day trip to Jiufen. Located around an hour out of the city, this mountain town is known for its traditional teahouses, narrow warren of streets and stunning views over the Pacific Ocean.
A former gold mining hub, there are many throwbacks to this time, including a fascinating Gold Museum. You will probably want to start at the Old Street, and meander through this bustling marketplace to see stalls selling sweets, souvenirs and handcrafted trinkets.
For the more adventurous, there are numerous hiking trails surrounding the town, and it’s possible to enjoy an exploration of Jiufen and a hike and still make it back to Taipei for the early evening. I highly recommend booking this day trip to visit Jiufen or you can hire private transportation to take you around the area.
#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: Best Restaurants in Taipei
To finish off, here are a couple of suggested dining options for you in Taipei. The city has a great dining scene, and there are hundreds of fantastic restaurants to choose from, plus innumerable street food vendors serving fresh and cheap local cuisine.
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!
Many of the best restaurants are those where you get absolutely zero say in what you order. When a restaurant specializes in just one dish, and that’s what you have. Ay-Chung Flour Rice Noodles is one such establishment, serving only Taiwan-style vermicelli with braised pork intestine. That might make you squeamish, but seriously, don’t knock until you’ve tried. The pork is incredibly tender and well-seasoned, and portions are a good size at this popular Taipei food stall. It’s a great option for a nourishing meal on the go in the city.
For a more up-market (and expensive) dinner in the city, RyuGin Taipei is one of the best places in Taipei to enjoy kaiseki, a traditional, multi-course Japanese meal. Head chef Seiji Yamamoto has three coveted Michelin stars to his name, and he’s pulled together a menu using only the finest Taiwanese ingredients in his Taipei restaurant – there’s a reason he’s at #5 on the Le Chef’s ranking of the 100 Best Chefs in the World (2019).
Is Taipei safe?
This is another common question asked by travelers. The relationship between Taipei and Beijing is often in the news, and China has an aggressively stated aim of reintegrating Taiwan. This goes against the US policy of maintaining the status quo, which is the semi-independence that the island nation currently enjoys. Taiwan is well-armed by the United States and any war would be extremely difficult for China to win – diplomacy has long been seen as the more likely solution to finding a breakthrough. Although there is always the possibility of conflict, the status quo has been maintained peacefully for many years, and the eruption of conflict in the near future seems unlikely. It would be even more unlikely for this to happen without warning. If planning a trip to Taiwan, do keep across political developments and ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance. However, it is incredibly unlikely that these issues should affect your trip.
Geopolitics aside, Taipei is one of the safest cities in the world. It has very little crime, excellent healthcare and fast, reliable public transportation. Friendly locals add to the security of the city, and the pro-Western nature of the island means that visitors from Europe and particularly the United States are generally welcomed to Taipei with open arms by the local population.
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.
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.
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