BEST THINGS TO DO IN TAIPEI

Like most places, it can be overwhelming to plan a trip to Taipei, Taiwan. Since it’s a large city, there is a lot to see and do. I had a little help planning my trip as my cousins wife is from Taiwan so they’ve been spent quite a bit of time there! With so much to see, I’ve created a list of the best things to do in Taipei. Luckily, these spots are easy to hit within a few days so I recommend spending about 3-4 days for Taipei.

Before I get started, of course a trip to Taiwan wouldn’t be complete without getting bubble tea. Since this delicious tea originated in Taiwan, it’s everywhere in Taipei!

I love a good view so my favorite spot in Taipei is Elephant Mountain. The views are absolutely spectacular as you overlook the city with the Taipei 101 Tower in the distance. It takes approximately 20 minutes to reach the view point so you’ll work up a little sweat on your way to the top. Don’t let this quick 20 minute hike fool you, it’s a challenge. There are a few viewing platforms along the trail but trees cover the majority of the trail. You’ll climb up 600 steps before reaching the view point.

Getting There: To reach Elephant Mountain Taipei take the red line to the Xiangshan MRT station. It will be the last stop.

The Taipei 101 tower is the priciest recommendation on my list but it’s a staple in Taipei. It was actually the tallest building in the world from 2004 to 2010. Currently it’s the 10th tallest building in the world. To reach the Taipei 101 Tower you’ll enter the Taipei 101 mall and go on the 5th floor. From the 5th floor you’ll take the elevator to the 89th floor in 37 seconds for a panoramic view of the city. There’s a lounge up top so you can grab a drink or bite to eat and enjoy the view.

You can either purchase the tickets online or upon arrival. If you purchase online you can select a time to visit. We went around noon and there wasn’t a wait.

Getting There: To reach Taipei 101, take the red line to the Taipei 101 MRT station.

If you have time for one activity in Taipei, make it the Maokong Gondola. It’s such a unique experience making it one of the top things to do in Taipei! The gondola takes approximately 20-30 minutes to ride. You’ll take the gondola from the city into the mountains. The gondola is 4 kilometers long stopping at the Taipei Zoo Station, Zhinan Temple Station and finally the Maokong Station. The views along the way are absolutely gorgeous as you pass through the lush mountains overlooking the city. As I mentioned, the last stop is in the mountains where there are a handful of tea shops and plantations. If you like tea, set aside a few hours to taste tea in the mountains.

The gondola is open daily from about 9 am to 9 pm but double check their website before visiting. The gondola Taipei closes for maintenance on Monday. We waited in line for about 30-45 minutes so make sure you give yourself enough time to visit.

Getting There: To reach Maokong Gondola, take the brown line to the Taipei Zoo MRT station.

Night Markets are a cannot miss in Taipei as they’re big part of Taiwanese culture! Vendors flood the streets selling local food and products. I’m not going to lie, night markets can be overwhelming! There are so many options, it’s hard to know what to try. If you’re new to night markets, I recommend booking a tour. It’s generally pretty inexpensive to book and they’re led by locals that will be able to guide you through the market. With approximately 30 night markets in the area, the most popular are Shilin, Ximending, and Raohe. Head to the markets between 8 and 9 pm and you won’t be disappointed.

Din Tai Fung is an obvious must in Taipei. While you can eat at Din Tai Fung in a number of cities around the world, the original is actually in Taipei. If you’ve never been to Din Tai Fung, you’re in for a treat! They’re known for their perfect soup dumplings; xiaolongbao. These dumplings are steamed and served in a bamboo basket. Pork is the most common filling in the dumplings however, Din Tai Fung has a pretty extensive menu. Max and I like to try a few different dumplings so we can sample a little of everything! While these are the most popular dish on the menu, you’ll find everything from fried rice to noodle soups.

There are 7 Din Tai Fung locations scattered throughout Taipei but be prepared for a wait! We went to a few different locations and all of them had close to a two hour wait. If you don’t want to go to the original, there is a Din Tai Fung below the Taipei 101. I recommend putting your name in before visiting the 101 tower. Once you’re finished with the tower, your table will likely be ready.

As with most large cities, there are a few attractions to hit while in Taipei Taiwan. The National Palace Museum is the place for history buffs. There are hundreds of thousands of ancient Chinese artifacts throughout the museum. Another important place to visit while in Taipei is the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. The hall was built in 1976 in memory of the first president of the Republic of China, Chiang Kai-shek. The last attraction on my list is the Longshan Temple. What makes the Longshan Temple so unique is it houses Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian statues. While there are many more attractions to visit, these are among the top things to do in Taipei!

Getting There:

• National Palace Museum: There isn’t an MRT Station at the museum so I’ve linked directions. My husband and I found it very confusing!
• Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall: Take the MRT to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Station. This is a transfer station for the red and green line.
• Longshan Temple: Take the blue line to the Longshan Temple Station.

There is so much to see in Taiwan, I recommend spending at least a day outside the city if your itinerary allows. You can either do a day trip on your own or book one online. The MRT and train are extremely convenient in Taiwan so there are a lot of places you can visit on your own. If you’re looking for an inexpensive, last minute option, head to Tamsui. To reach the Tamsui MRT Station, you’ll take the red line to the last stop. Tamsui is a beautiful coastal town known for their street food. Another great place to visit is Hualien which is a two hour speed train from Taipei. Hualien is a mountainous city with plenty of hiking. If you have excess time in Hualien, make sure to visit Taroko Gorge.

If you prefer booking a tour, there are a ton of great tours listed on Klook. You’ll find everything from hiking to visiting tea plantations and more.

Taipei is such a cool city to visit. It’s lively, with great food, and incredible scenery! It’s an excellent choice on a trip to Asia as there is so much to see. I hope this guide helps you on your trip to Taiwan. Already been to Taipei? Leave me a comment with your favorite things to do in Taipei Taiwan!

Safe Travels,

Sarah :)

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