Best Time to Visit
September to November
Currency
New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)
Language
Mandarin
Timezone
CST (UTC+8)
Discover Taipei
Taipei is a city of captivating contrasts, where the scent of incense from centuries-old temples like Longshan mingles with the aroma of sizzling street food from the legendary Shilin Night Market. Here, you can ascend the bamboo-inspired Taipei 101 for a dizzying cityscape view, then descend into the geothermal mists of Beitou's public hot springs, all within the same afternoon. The city's true magic lies in its seamless fusion of layered histories—indigenous, Chinese, Japanese, and modern Taiwanese—creating a uniquely welcoming and endlessly explorable urban tapestry.
Beyond the iconic landmarks, Taipei's soul is found in its labyrinthine alleys, where hole-in-the-wall tea shops serve exquisite oolongs and third-wave coffee roasters brew alongside them. It's a city made for wandering, whether you're hunting for vintage treasures in the hip boutiques of Dadaocheng or joining locals for a sunrise hike up Elephant Mountain. With its efficient MRT system, impeccable safety, and a food scene that ranges from a Michelin-starred xiaolongbao at Din Tai Fung to a humble bowl of beef noodle soup, Taipei offers world-class experiences with remarkable ease and affordability.
Why Visit Taipei?
A Culinary Paradise Beyond Night Markets: Yes, you must try stinky tofu at Raohe and oyster omelets at Shilin, but also seek out the city's incredible diversity. Indulge in a multi-course Taiwanese feast at a 'rechao' (hot stir) restaurant, savor the legendary soup dumplings at Din Tai Fung's original location, and explore the burgeoning specialty coffee scene in Zhongshan District.
A Seamless Blend of Urban Buzz and Natural Escape: Taipei is uniquely situated within a basin surrounded by mountains and hot spring valleys. You can be shopping in the glitzy Xinyi District one hour and hiking through lush jungle trails in Yangmingshan National Park the next, or soaking in the mineral-rich waters of Beitou after a morning exploring the city.
A Living Museum of Culture and History: Witness the profound collection of Chinese imperial artifacts at the National Palace Museum, then see living traditions at work during a temple ceremony at Bao'an Temple. Explore the Japanese-era architecture in Dadaocheng and the contemporary art at Songshan Cultural and Creative Park to understand Taiwan's complex historical layers.
The Birthplace and Global Epicenter of Bubble Tea: Experience the drink in its homeland, from the classic pearl milk tea at Chun Shui Tang (which claims to have invented it) to innovative modern versions with cheese foam, fresh fruit, and brown sugar pearls at chains like Tiger Sugar and Xing Fu Tang.
Incredible Value and Effortless Exploration: Taipei offers high-quality experiences at relatively low costs, from affordable luxury hotels and delicious street food meals to inexpensive and ultra-efficient public transport. The comprehensive MRT and YouBike bike-share system make navigating the city incredibly simple and cheap.
A Warm and Hospitable Local Culture: Taiwanese people are famously friendly and helpful. Don't be surprised if a local helps you with directions or offers a food recommendation. This genuine warmth, combined with the city's outstanding safety, makes for a stress-free and deeply welcoming travel experience.
Taipei is Known For
Ready to explore Taipei?
Taipei Neighborhoods
Ximending
Taipei's vibrant, pedestrian-only youth culture and shopping hub, often called the 'Harajuku of Taipei'. It's a sensory overload of neon lights, trendy fashion stores, themed cafes, and street performers.
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Da'an
A sophisticated, leafy residential district that's also the heart of Taipei's culinary and cafe scene. It's upscale yet relaxed, with tree-lined streets hiding some of the city's best restaurants and boutiques.
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Dadaocheng
One of Taipei's oldest districts, where 19th-century Baroque and Fujian-style shophouses tell the story of the tea and fabric trade. It's a historic area undergoing a creative renaissance.
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Zhongshan & Nanjing East Road
A bustling commercial and business district characterized by its grid of shopping lanes, Japanese-era influences, and a mix of department stores, underground malls, and intimate dining lanes.
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Top Attractions
Local Tips & Insider Knowledge
- •Get an EasyCard immediately upon arrival. It works on the MRT, buses, YouBikes, and even at convenience stores. You can buy and top it up at any MRT station or 7-Eleven.
- •For the best night market experience, go to Raohe or Ningxia instead of the massive Shilin. They are more manageable, equally delicious, and favored by locals.
- •Don't put your used toilet paper in the bin. The sewage systems in Taiwan are modern, so you can flush it. The bins are only for sanitary products.
- •Take advantage of the free hot spring foot baths! Several spots in Beitou, like the one next to the Beitou Library, offer them. Bring a small towel.
- •When riding an escalator, stand on the right and walk on the left. This is a strict social rule, especially in MRT stations.
- •Visit a convenience store (7-Eleven or FamilyMart) for more than snacks. You can pay bills, buy train tickets, print documents, and receive packages. They are lifesavers.
- •Download the 'Bus+' app for real-time bus tracking. The MRT is excellent, but buses reach more remote corners of the city and are just as efficient.
- •Tipping is not customary in Taiwan. It's not expected in taxis, restaurants, or hotels. Some high-end restaurants may add a 10% service charge.
- •Carry a small umbrella or raincoat from May to September. Afternoon thunderstorms are common and can be sudden and heavy.
- •For a unique temple experience, visit during the early morning (around 7-8 AM) to see locals making offerings and praying before work. The atmosphere is serene and authentic.
Taipei Food Scene
Taipei's food culture is a democratic celebration of flavor, where a Michelin-starred meal and a NT$50 ($1.60) street snack are held in equally high regard. It's a city built on night markets, humble noodle shops, and a profound respect for fresh, high-quality ingredients, blending Taiwanese, Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous influences.
Must-Try Dishes
Street Food & Night Markets
- • Ningxia Night Market: Hu Jiao Bing (Pepper Buns)
- • Raohe Night Market: Chen Dong Pork Ribs Medicinal Herbs Soup
- • Shilin Night Market: Hai You Jian (Fried Giant Crab Claws)
Go with a group and share small portions so you can try more things. Look for stalls with long lines of locals.
Classic Taiwanese Restaurants
- • Din Tai Fung (Original Xinyi Branch) for xiaolongbao
- • Yong Kang Beef Noodle for the iconic soup
- • Jin Feng Braised Pork Rice for lu rou fan
For popular spots like Din Tai Fung, use their app to join the virtual queue hours before you plan to eat to avoid long waits.
ReChao (Hot Stir) & Local Feasts
- • Hot Star Large Fried Chicken for giant crispy chicken
- • Any local 'rechao' joint for dishes like three-cup chicken, stir-fried clams, and salt & pepper squid
- • Monga Chicken for Taiwanese-style roasted chicken
'Rechao' places are loud, lively, and perfect for groups. Don't be shy—point at what others are eating or ask for the house specialties.
Sweet Treats & Beverages
- • Ice Monster for legendary mango shaved ice
- • Chun Shui Tang for the original bubble milk tea
- • Any local bakery for pineapple cake (feng li su)
When ordering bubble tea, you can customize sugar level (0%, 25%, 50%, 75%, 100%) and ice. '少冰' (shao bing) means less ice, '去冰' (qu bing) means no ice.
Popular With
Best Time to Visit Taipei
Spring
Spring (March-May) brings mild, pleasant temperatures and occasional rain. The city starts to bloom, and it's a beautiful time for outdoor activities before the summer heat.
Pros:
- + Comfortable temperatures ideal for hiking and exploring
- + Yangmingshan's cherry blossoms and calla lilies are in bloom
- + Fewer tourists than in autumn
Cons:
- - Unpredictable 'plum rain' season in May can bring extended showers
- - Can be humid
Summer
Summer (June-August) is hot, humid, and rainy, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms. It's the peak of typhoon season, though major storms are not constant.
Pros:
- + Lush, green landscapes in the surrounding mountains
- + Long daylight hours
- + Indoor attractions like museums and malls are pleasantly cool
Cons:
- - Intense heat and high humidity can be exhausting
- - Afternoon thunderstorms can disrupt outdoor plans
- - Risk of typhoons, primarily in August
Autumn
Autumn (September-November) is widely considered the best time to visit. The weather is dry, sunny, and comfortably warm with low humidity and clear skies.
Pros:
- + Nearly perfect weather for all activities
- + Ideal for hiking Elephant Mountain or visiting Yangmingshan
- + Clear views from Taipei 101
Cons:
- - Peak tourist season, so attractions and hotels can be busier
- - Slightly higher prices for accommodation
Winter
Winter (December-February) is cool and damp, with temperatures rarely dropping below 10°C (50°F). It's the perfect time for hot springs and hearty food.
Pros:
- + Best season for soaking in Beitou's or Wulai's hot springs
- + Comfortable for city walking without sweating
- + Festive atmosphere around Lunar New Year (date varies Jan/Feb)
Cons:
- - Frequent drizzles and overcast skies, 'northeast monsoon' season
- - Can feel chilly, especially in the mountains
- - Some businesses close during the Lunar New Year holiday
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Day Trips from Taipei
Jiufen
1 hour by bus or train
A historic gold-mining town built into a mountainside, famous for its narrow, lantern-lit stairway streets, teahouses with ocean views, and inspiration for the Studio Ghibli film 'Spirited Away'.
Yehliu Geopark
1.5 hours by bus
A unique coastal park on a cape, renowned for its otherworldly rock formations sculpted by sea erosion, the most famous being the 'Queen's Head'.
Wulai
40 min by bus
A mountainous aboriginal Atayal township in New Taipei City, known for its natural hot springs, waterfalls, and indigenous culture, offering a quick escape into nature.
Taipei Budget Guide
Taipei offers exceptional value, with high-quality food, accommodation, and transport at costs significantly lower than many other major Asian capitals. It's very friendly to budget and mid-range travelers.
Budget
$30-50 USD for hostels, street food, and public transport
per day
Mid-Range
$80-150 USD for comfortable hotels, sit-down meals, and taxi rides
per day
Luxury
$250+ USD for 5-star hotels, fine dining, and private tours
per day
Money-Saving Tips
- •Street food and night markets are your best friends for delicious, cheap meals (NT$50-150 per item).
- •Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart) offer surprisingly good and affordable ready-to-eat meals.
- •The Taipei Metro Day Pass (NT$180) offers unlimited MRT and bus rides for 24 hours.
- •Many major attractions like the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and National Taiwan Museum are free.
- •Consider staying in neighborhoods like Zhongshan or near Taipei Main Station for good value accommodation with excellent transport links.
Taipei Hidden Gems
Bopiliao Historic Block
A beautifully preserved Qing Dynasty street in Wanhua, with original baroque-style facades, now housing cultural exhibitions and artist studios.
It offers a quiet, uncrowded glimpse into old Taipei's architecture right next to the bustling Longshan Temple area, free from the commercial feel of Dihua Street.
Fujin Street (Fujin Lane)
A charming, tree-lined residential lane in Songshan District, transformed into a hub of independent cafes, boutique shops, and galleries.
It feels like a peaceful, artistic village within the city, offering a relaxed, local alternative to the busy shopping districts, perfect for a coffee and a stroll.
Zhishan Garden
A classical Chinese landscape garden hidden within the grounds of the National Palace Museum, featuring ponds, pavilions, and winding paths.
Almost all visitors rush into the museum, missing this serene, free garden that offers a moment of tranquility and a beautiful photo opportunity away from the crowds.
Museum of Drinking Water
A small museum housed in a beautiful historic pumping station and water tower near Gongguan, showcasing Taipei's water history.
Its real highlight is the chance to climb the ornate, castle-like water tower for a unique, 360-degree panoramic view of the city that few tourists know about.
Grass Mountain Chateau (草山行館)
The former summer residence of Chiang Kai-shek, located in the hills of Yangmingshan, now a museum and teahouse with stunning views.
It combines history, architecture, and nature with far fewer visitors than the main Yangmingshan flower spots. The teahouse terrace is a magical spot for sunset.
Taipei Culture & Customs
Taiwanese culture is a distinct blend of traditional Chinese heritage, Japanese colonial influences, and a strong, modern local identity. It's characterized by incredible politeness, a deep respect for elders and traditions (especially in temples), and a vibrant, democratic civil society. Religion (a mix of Buddhism, Taoism, and folk beliefs) is woven into daily life.
Cultural Etiquette
- •Always receive gifts, business cards, or purchases with both hands as a sign of respect.
- •Avoid pointing with a single finger; use an open hand to gesture instead.
- •It's polite to make a slight refusal once or twice when offered something (like food or a gift) before accepting.
- •Remove your shoes when entering someone's home, some traditional teahouses, and certain temple areas.
- •Don't stick your chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice, as it resembles incense for the dead.
Useful Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions about Taipei
Is Taipei safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Taipei is exceptionally safe, even late at night. Violent crime is very rare. Solo travelers, including women, can feel comfortable walking in most areas and using public transport at night. Standard precautions like watching your belongings in crowded places still apply.
Do I need a visa to visit Taiwan?
Citizens of over 60 countries, including the US, Canada, UK, EU, Australia, and New Zealand, can enter Taiwan visa-free for stays of 30 or 90 days (depending on nationality) for tourism. Always check the latest requirements with the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO) in your country before travel.
Can I use credit cards, or is it a cash society?
Taipei is becoming more card-friendly, especially in hotels, department stores, and nicer restaurants. However, cash is still king at night markets, small local eateries, temples, and for transportation (EasyCard top-ups). It's best to carry a mix; withdraw cash from ubiquitous ATMs using an international card.
Is tap water safe to drink in Taipei?
The tap water is treated and meets safety standards, but it is not commonly drunk straight from the tap by locals. Most people boil it or drink bottled/filtered water. Hotels typically provide free bottled water. You can safely use tap water for brushing your teeth.
What's the best way to get a local SIM card or WiFi?
The easiest option is to buy a tourist SIM card or rent a portable WiFi device (pocket WiFi) at Taoyuan Airport upon arrival. Major providers like Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and FarEasTone have counters in the arrival hall. Pre-booking online can sometimes save time.
How do I get around if I don't speak Mandarin?
It's very easy. All MRT signs and announcements are in English as well as Mandarin. Most restaurant menus in tourist areas have pictures or English translations. Younger Taiwanese often speak basic English, and people are generally very willing to help using gestures or translation apps. Learning a few basic phrases is appreciated.
What should I wear when visiting temples?
Dress modestly out of respect. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Avoid wearing hats inside temple halls. Some major temples may provide cloth wraps at the entrance if your clothing is deemed inappropriate. It's a good practice to carry a light scarf or shawl.
Are there any cultural festivals I should try to see?
Yes! The most spectacular is the Lantern Festival, marking the end of Lunar New Year, with massive displays (like in Pingxi, where sky lanterns are released). Dragon Boat Festival (June) features races. The Mid-Autumn Festival is celebrated with barbecues. Ghost Month (July/August) has unique temple ceremonies and performances.
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