Taipei, the vibrant capital of Taiwan, is a city where glassy skyscrapers rise above temples, and bustling night markets tempt you with the smell of delectable street food. It’s a place where old and new sit side by side, fusing modern and deeply traditional attractions.
Despite everything it offers, Taipei remains underrated on many travellers’ lists. That’s surprising when you realise this sprawling city features world-class museums, some of Asia’s best night markets, and natural escapes like hot springs and towering mountains.
From tourist spots to mouth-watering eats, here are some of the best things to do in Taipei.
Essential Taipei Tourist Attractions
The capital is packed with must-see sights that showcase the city’s unique character. We've narrowed down some of the top places to visit in Taipei for first-timers.
1. Taipei 101 (台北101)
Taipei 101, once the world’s tallest building, still defines Taipei’s skyline with its bamboo-inspired design.
Using the ultra-fast elevator up to the 89th floor brings you to the Taipei 101 observatory, which offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city. At the base, you can visit the Taipei 101 shopping centre and the original Din Tai Fung restaurant just 12-minutes away in Xinyi Road, which popularised xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).
Best time to visit: Go in the early evening to catch the sunset.
How to get there: Ride the MRT Tamsui–Xinyi Line (Red Line) to Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station. Use Exit 4 and it’s a short walk to the tower entrance.
2. Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall (中正紀念堂)
Chiang-Kai Shek Memorial Hall is a grand monument in Liberty Square that honours Taiwan's former president. Its blue-and-white design reflects the national flag, with a sky dome topped by 12 rays of light.
From 9am to 5pm, the guards change every hour on the dot. It's a precise, ceremonial display worth seeing. You might also spot locals practicing calligraphy on the pavement with giant brushes.
Best time to visit: Late afternoon into early evening is ideal.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui–Xinyi Line (Red Line) or the Songshan–Xindian Line (Green Line) to Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall Station. Use Exit 5 and you’ll walk straight out into Liberty Square with the memorial right ahead.
3. Longshan Temple (龍山寺)
Built in 1738, Longshan Temple is Taipei’s most famous temple. Step inside to see ornate carvings, cedar beams, and clouds of incense as locals pray to deities like Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy.
Nearby, explore Bopiliao Old Street with its herbal shops and fortune tellers. You can also pair your visit with a tour of Daodaocheng Wharf, which offers a scenic riverside view of Taipei. Longshan is calmer than many city spots, making it a peaceful escape in the heart of Taipei.
Best time to visit: Early morning for a calm, spiritual atmosphere or in the evening when the temple is beautifully lit.
How to get there: Take the MRT Bannan Line (Blue Line) to Longshan Temple Station. Use Exit 1 and you’ll find the temple just a 1-2 minute walk away across the square.
4. The National Palace Museum (國立故宮博物院)
A trip to the National Palace Museum will allow you to marvel at an extensive collection of Chinese cultural treasures in one place.
Home to nearly 700,000 artefacts spanning 5,000 years, it showcases jade carvings, ancient bronzes, and rotating highlights like the Jadeite Cabbage or Meat-shaped Stone. If you have time, stroll the Zhishan Garden behind the museum. It's a tranquil hidden gem many visitors skip.
Best time to visit: Go on weekday mornings to avoid tour groups and enjoy the galleries in peace.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui–Xinyi Line (Red Line) to Shilin Station, then transfer to bus R30 (Red 30), 815, 304, or 255. These buses stop right in front of the museum entrance in about 15 minutes.
5. Elephant Mountain (象山/Xiangshan)
Ever seen a photo of Taipei’s skyline? Chances are it was taken from Elephant Mountain.
Located in Xinyi District, this short but steep trail has around 600 stone steps and takes about 20 minutes to climb, leading you to multiple lookout points with stunning views of the city and Taipei 101. The path is well-maintained with railings, making it accessible for most hikers. For fewer crowds, continue on to the connected “Four Beasts” peaks (Tiger, Leopard, and Lion) which offer equally breathtaking views.
Best time to visit: Arrive before sunset to enjoy both day and night panoramas.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui–Xinyi Line (Red Line) to Xiangshan Station. From Exit 2, it’s a 10-minute walk to the trailhead, followed by a 20-minute hike.
6. Ximending (西門町)
Ximending is often hailed as the Harajuku or Shibuya of Taipei.
This neon-lit pedestrian district is the heart of the city’s youth culture, filled with shops, street performers, and late-night energy. It’s a great spot for Japanese and Korean cosmetics, quirky fashion, and people-watching.
Don’t miss the famous Ay-Chung flour rice noodles, always served with a crowd outside. The historic Red House is another highlight, home to weekend creative markets and a hub for Taipei’s LGBTQ+ friendly bars and cafés.
Best time to visit: Hike up about an hour before sunset so you can enjoy both daytime and nighttime views of the Taipei skyline.
How to get there: Take the MRT Bannan Line (Blue Line) to Ximen Station. From Exit 6, you’ll step right into the heart of Ximending’s pedestrian district.
Best Taipei Night Markets & Street Food Spots
When in Taipei, you should indulge in the city's street food culture. The capital houses several night markets that houses enticing aromas, bright lights, and delectable eats.
From adventurous bites to affordable eats, here are some of the best foodie spots in Taipei.
7. Shilin Night Market (士林夜市)
Shilin Night Market is Taipei's largest and most popular food market. It has been around for over a century and is often the one tourists include in their itinerary.
Located in the Shilin district, it’s packed with stalls serving stinky tofu, grilled sausages, giant fried chicken cutlets, oyster omelettes, milk tea, and more. Make sure to come hungry!
Beyond food, you’ll also find carnival-style games, souvenir shops, and small restaurants tucked into the alleys.
Best time to visit: Arrive around 7pm–9pm. Weeknights are less crowded, while weekends buzz with more energy but heavier crowds.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui–Xinyi Line (Red Line) to Jiantan Station (not Shilin Station). From Exit 1, cross the street and follow the crowds. The main entrance is a 5-minute walk.
8. Raohe Night Market (饒河夜市)
Photo: @taezzzz on Instagram
If Shilin Night Market seems too overwhelming, Raohe Night Market is another favourite.
Here, food stalls line a straight 600-metre stretch, with the ornate Ciyou Temple marking the entrance. Don’t miss Raohe’s signature pepper pork buns, which are baked in a tandoor-style oven and stuffed with juicy pork and scallions. You’ll also find grilled squid, cheesy loaded potatoes, and plenty of fresh juice stalls.
Best time to visit: Go from 6:30pm–8:30pm when food stalls are fully open.
How to get there: Take the MRT Songshan–Xindian Line (Green Line) to Songshan Station. From Exit 5, it’s a short 2-3 minute walk to the market entrance beside Ciyou Temple.
9. Ningxia Night Market (寧夏夜市)
If you're looking for more traditional Taiwanese snacks, Ningxia Night Market is one of the most popular stops.
Smaller than Raohe or Shilin, it’s still packed with favourites like taro balls, oyster vermicelli, peanut roll ice cream, grilled oysters, and squid. It gets crowded fast, so come early. Its central location near Taipei Main Station makes it especially popular.
Best time to visit: Early evening around 6pm-8pm is best for sampling fresh snacks before it gets too crowded.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui–Xinyi Line (Red Line) or the Songshan–Xindian Line (Green Line) to Zhongshan Station. From Exit 2, it’s about a 10-minute walk west along Nanjing West Road to the market entrance.
10. Nanjichang Night Market (南機場夜市)
Photo: @foodiepiggy22 on Instagram
Compared to other night markets, Nanjichang is underrated, but it’s home to some of the most scrumptious eats, including Michelin-recognised spots.
It’s famous for pan-fried buns and braised pork rice. Don’t miss Shan Nay Chicken, which has earned a Michelin Plate (not to be confused with a Michelin star) several years running. It’s so popular that items often sell out early.
Since few tourists visit, most vendors don’t speak English, so have your orders ready in Mandarin.
Best time to visit: Head there around 6pm-9pm for the full local experience.
How to get there: Take the MRT Bannan Line (Blue Line) to Longshan Temple Station, then walk about 15 minutes southwest. Alternatively, hop on a short taxi ride from central Taipei. It’s tucked in a residential area near Zhongzheng District.
11. Din Tai Fung (鼎泰豐)
Din Tai Fung is arguably the most famous restaurant to come out of Taiwan. While there are branches worldwide, it’s extra special to visit in Taipei, its home city.
The must-order is their xiaolongbao, but don’t miss the house special cucumber, spicy shrimp and pork wontons, scallion oil noodles, hot-and-sour soup, and soy milk.
Best time to visit: (Note: This is for the Taipei 101 branch.) Go for an early lunch (11am-12pm) or late afternoon (around 3pm-4pm) to avoid the longest queues.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) to Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station. Use Exit 4 and walk into Taipei 101 Mall. Din Tai Fung is on B1 (basement level).
Where To Shop in Taipei
The shopping scene in Taipei is diverse, with both luxury malls and traditional markets. Whether you're looking the latest tech innovations to one-of-a-kind souvenirs, the places to go in Taipei for shopping are abundant.
12. Xinyi District Malls (信義區百貨商圈)
Want to hit several shops in one go? Head over to the Xinyi District, which is considered Taipei's modern shopping haven.
Malls like Taipei 101, Shin Kong Mitsukoshi, ATT 4 FUN, and Breeze Center sit just blocks apart, connected by pedestrian walkways. Here you’ll find luxury brands, international retailers, cinemas, and plenty of dining options. The area often hosts pop-ups and events, keeping it lively even if you’re just people-watching.
Best time to visit: Afternoons into early evening (3pm-7pm) are ideal.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) to Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station (Exit 2 or 4) or Xiangshan Station.
13. Guanghua Digital Plaza (光華數位新天地)
Photo: @speedknight on Instagram
If you’re into tech, head to Guanghua Digital Plaza in Zhongzheng District, right next to Syntrend Creative Park.
Often dubbed a "geek's Disneyland," this six-storey “tech mall” is packed with stalls selling laptops, PC parts, cameras, video games, and even the most obscure cables. Prices are competitive, and most stalls don’t have fixed rates, so compare and haggle politely.
Best time to visit: Go in the afternoon (1pm-6pm) when all the small vendors are open.
How to get there: Take the MRT Bannan Line (Blue Line) to Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station. From Exit 1, it’s about a 5-minute walk north to the Guanghua Digital Plaza building on Bade Road.
14. Dihua Street (迪化街)
Photo: @kyoheihigashio on Instagram
Dihua Street is one of Taipei’s oldest streets, lined with restored Qing- and Japanese-era shophouses and filled with traditional products and handicrafts.
Pick up Taiwanese tea, dried fruits, herbs, incense, fabric, and handmade crafts - with many tea shops offering free tastings. Boutiques and cafés now sit alongside century-old stores, blending old and new Taipei.
Best time to visit: Go in the late morning or early afternoon when shops are open and the street is lively, but before the evening crowds.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) or the Songshan-Xindian Line (Green Line) to Beimen Station or Daqiaotou Station. From either stop, it’s about a 10-15 minute walk to Dihua Street.
15. Songshan Cultural and Creative Park (松山文創園區)
Songshan Cultural and Creative Park is Taipei’s hip arts hub, set in a former Japanese-era tobacco factory. Its red-brick warehouses now house exhibitions, design shops, and galleries, making it one of the city’s top spots for creative inspiration.
Spend an afternoon browsing markets, art fairs, and boutiques selling everything from handmade stationery to quirky local fashion. Out front, a Baroque-style garden offers a peaceful escape from the city.
Best time to visit: Go in the afternoon when exhibitions and shops are in full swing.
How to get there: Take the MRT Bannan Line (Blue Line) to Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Station. From Exit 5, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the park entrance.
Experiencing Taipei's Nightlife
Just because the sun goes down doesn't mean the fun stops. At night, Taipei comes alive with diverse, safe, and fun entertainment options.
From cosy pubs to thumping clubs, Taipei's nightlife has something for everyone. Here are some places to enjoy Taipei after dark.
16. Ounce Cocktail Bar
Photo: @dressios on Instagram
Ounce is Taipei’s original speakeasy-style cocktail bar, hidden behind a coffee shop with no sign or neon lights. Step through the door into a cosy, dimly lit space with bartenders who know their craft.
Here, you don’t order off a menu. Instead, just tell them your preferred flavours (citrusy, smoky, strong, refreshing) and they’ll mix something tailored to you. The cocktails are inventive, balanced, and always a pleasant surprise.
Photo: @yeesover on Instagram
Best time to visit: Weeknights after 8pm for a relaxed vibe and easier seating. Fridays and Saturdays get packed, so aim to arrive early in the evening if you want to snag a spot.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) to Daan Station. From Exit 6, it’s about a 5-minute walk. Look for the Relax Café front, and the hidden entrance to Ounce is inside.
17. Anhe Road (安和路)
Photo: @arty2u on Instagram
Anhe Road is one of Taipei’s most popular nightlife strips, especially with the expat crowd. It’s lined with Irish pubs, sports bars, and cocktail lounges, making it a lively spot with a mix of locals and foreigners.
Watch live sports, grab a craft beer, or hop between bars with great music and conversation. If you’re looking to mingle or enjoy a classic Taipei night out, Anhe Road delivers.
Best time to visit: Late evening on Fridays and Saturdays for the busiest atmosphere. Weeknights are more relaxed but still fun if you prefer smaller crowds.
How to get there: Take the MRT Wenhu Line (Brown Line) to Xinyi Anhe Station. From Exit 4, it’s a short walk to Anhe Road, where bars and pubs stretch along the main strip and nearby lanes.
18. OMNI Nightclub
Photo: @sescomusic on Instagram
OMNI is Taipei’s most famous big-room nightclub and the place to go if you’re in the mood to dress up and dance.
International DJs (like Afrojack and Olly James) spin EDM under dazzling light shows, with a massive dance floor packed with Taipei’s stylish party crowd. Even famous artists like Jay Park and Central Cee have performed at OMNI!
Expect a mix of locals, expats, and travellers, plus a cover charge (sometimes with a drink). Weekends are when it really goes off.
Best time to visit: Fridays and Saturdays after 11pm.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) or the Bannan Line (Blue Line) to Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station. From there, it’s a 5-10 minute walk to OMNI, located inside the ATT 4 FUN building in the Xinyi District.
19. Blue Note (台北藍調)
Photo @don___dinosaur on Instagram
Blue Note is Taipei’s classic spot for live jazz, tucked into a cosy basement that feels like a New York-style club. Dim lighting, small tables, and musicians playing just a few feet away set the scene.
The lineup changes nightly, with both local and international performers. Order a drink, sit back, and soak up the relaxed, soulful atmosphere. It's perfect for date night, a chill evening with friends, or a break from Taipei’s high-energy club scene.
Best time to visit: Evenings from 8pm onwards, especially on weekends when the bands are at their best and the crowd is lively but not overwhelming.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) to Daan Station. From Exit 6, it’s about a 5-minute walk to Blue Note, located on Fuxing South Road.
20. Miramar Entertainment Park (美麗華百樂園)
Photo: @windiannisa__ on Instagram
Miramar Entertainment Park is a shopping and leisure complex best known for its giant rooftop Ferris wheel.
By day, it offers city views, but at night the wheel lights up in neon and the ride gives you a sparkling panorama of Taipei. It's a playful yet romantic favourite for couples. Inside, there’s also a cinema with one of Taipei’s largest IMAX screens, plus shops and restaurants for a full night out.
Best time to visit: Evenings after 7pm, when the Ferris wheel is lit up and you can enjoy night views of the city.
How to get there: Take the MRT Wenhu Line (Brown Line) to Jiannan Road Station. From Exit 3, it’s a short 5-minute walk to Miramar Entertainment Park.
21. Yonghe Doujiang Da'an (永和豆漿, 大安店)
Photo: @tabtablovetotravel on Instagram
Yonghe Doujiang is a Taipei institution. It's a 24-hour breakfast shop where locals and night owls gather for hot soy milk and crispy shaobing (baked flatbread). Add a youtiao (fried cruller) or egg pancake for a simple, satisfying meal that never goes out of style.
In Taipei, “宵夜” (xiaoye), or late-night snacking, is a pastime. After a night out, people flock here for a cheap, fast, and delicious midnight feast that doubles as breakfast.
The Da’an branch is one of the most popular in Taipei, drawing both locals and travellers for its lively atmosphere, especially in the early hours. It’s larger, better known, and has been featured in countless food guides. It's a must-visit if you want the classic Yonghe experience.
Best time to visit: Swing by in the early hours (midnight to 3am) to experience the true late-night crowd, or in the morning for a classic Taiwanese breakfast scene.
How to get there: There are multiple branches, but the most famous one is in the Da’an District. Take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) or Bannan Line (Blue Line) to Daan Station, then walk about 10 minutes.
Best Places To Experience Nature in Taipei
Taiwan is more than just an urban city; it also houses a surprising number of nature escapes. If you want a break from the busy streets, you can relax in one of Taipei's many parks, mountains, and hot springs.
22. Da'an Forest Park (大安森林公園)
Photo: @varatsuda on Instagram
Often dubbed "Taipei's Central Park," Da'an Forest Park is a large oasis in the Da’an District.
Come in the early morning to see locals practicing tai chi, jogging, or walking their pets, or simply stroll the tree-lined paths and relax by the ponds. On weekends, you might stumble across a flea market or live music by the amphitheatre. In February, you might even witness the cherry blossom trees bloom.
Best time to visit: Early morning is perfect; it's lively and peaceful. Late afternoon toward sunset is also a great time, when the light filters beautifully through the trees.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) or the Wenhu Line (Brown Line) to Da'an Park Station. Use Exit 1 or 2 and you’ll step right into the park.
23. Maokong Gondola & Tea Plantations (貓空纜車與茶園)
Photo: @gmcadpix on Instagram
Looking to combine nature with culture? Head to Maokong via the Maokong Gondola.
The cable car soars over jungle-covered hills with views of tea fields and mountain paths, and some cabins even have glass floors for extra thrill. At the top, you’ll find tea houses, short trails, and temples like Zhinan. Sip a cup of Tieguanyin (Iron Goddess) tea while overlooking the city, then stay for sunset as Taipei lights up below.
Best time to visit: Late afternoon is ideal, then stay for sunset and a cup of tea at a mountaintop teahouse. On weekends, the gondola runs into the evening.
How to get there: Take the MRT Wenhu Line (Brown Line) to Taipei Zoo Station. From there, it’s a short walk to the gondola entrance. Rides last about 20-30 minutes each way, with options to stop at Zhinan Temple or continue up to Maokong village.
24. Yangmingshan National Park (陽明山國家公園)
Photo: @aunaunion on Instagram
Yangmingshan National Park is known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and seasonal flowers. In spring, you can hike, see cherry blossoms, and soak in thermal pools.
Explore easy trails to Qingtiangang Grassland, where water buffalo graze, or Lengshuikeng, with its hot spring foot pool and “Milk Pond.” For more adventure, hike Qixing Mountain, Taipei’s highest peak, for panoramic views.
Seasonal highlights include calla lilies in spring, hydrangeas in summer, and silvergrass in autumn.
Best time to visit: Go in spring (Feb-Apr) for cherry blossoms and flower festivals, or in the fall (Oct-Nov) to see the autumn leaves.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) to Jiantan Station, then transfer to Bus R5 or 260, which will take you directly into the park. Alternatively, taxis or Uber rides from central Taipei take around 30-40 minutes.
25. Dahu Park (大湖公園)
Dahu Park in Neihu District is one of Taipei’s most scenic urban parks.
At its centre is a lake crossed by the elegant white Moon Bridge, whose arch reflects in the water to form a perfect circle. According to the Taipei Times, the Moon Bridge was voted the world’s most “mystical” bridge, earning 646 votes.
Locals come here to walk, jog, or relax by the pavilions and gardens, while photographers love the glow at sunrise or sunset.
Best time to visit: Early morning for calm reflections on the lake, or at sunset when the Moon Bridge lights up in golden hues.
How to get there: Take the MRT Wenhu Line (Brown Line) to Dahu Park Station. From Exit 1, the park entrance is right next to the station.
26. Taipei Zoo (台北市立動物園)
Taipei Zoo is one of Asia's largest city zoos and is a great family-friendly attraction. Spread across a green valley, it’s home to over 400 species.
Highlights include giant pandas, Formosan black bears, koalas, and penguins. The spacious enclosures cover everything from rainforest houses to desert habitats and a massive African savannah. Kids especially love the children’s zoo, with farm animals up close, while shaded walkways and rest spots make visits comfortable year-round.
Best time to visit: Arrive in the morning when the animals are most active and the crowds are thinner. Weekdays are less busy than weekends.
How to get there: Take the MRT Wenhu Line (Brown Line) to Taipei Zoo Station. The zoo entrance is right outside Exit 1.
27. The Beitou Hot Springs Museum (北投溫泉博物館)
The Beitou Hot Springs Museum is a hidden gem that brings the district’s steamy history to life.
Housed in a restored Japanese-era bathhouse from 1913, it combines wooden beams and red brick arches with exhibits on Beitou’s hot springs, old bathhouse equipment, and the original public bath. Small enough to explore in under an hour, it’s a perfect stop before or after a soak in the nearby baths.
Best time to visit: Visit in the morning or early afternoon. Weekdays are quieter than weekends.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) to Beitou Station, then transfer to the short branch line to Xinbeitou Station. The museum is about a 5-minute walk from the station, near Beitou Park.
Wondering where else to have a soak in Taipei? Check out our guide on the best hot springs in Taiwan.
Hidden Gems and Unique Experiences in Taipei
Want to step out of the tourist attractions and hit up some of the city's lesser-known spots? Don't worry, there are plenty of spots that fit the bill.
For travellers who love going off the beaten path, here are some unusual, hidden gems in Taipei to add an extra spark to your trip.
28. Treasure Hill Arts Village (寶藏巖國際藝術村)
Photo: @taipeiartistvillage on Instagram
Treasure Hill Arts Village is one of those places that feels like a secret, even though it’s right in the city.
Once a hillside settlement for veterans, it’s now a quirky artist community along the Xindian River near Gongguan. Narrow lanes wind past brick houses, studios, street art, cafés, and small galleries showcasing resident artists.
Off most tourist itineraries, it remains one of Taipei’s true hidden gems. If you love photography, creativity, or simply discovering something new, then make sure to add this to you day trip to Taipei.
Photo: @taipeiartistvillage on Instagram
Best time to visit: Late afternoon for the most atmospheric light and a relaxed pace before evening.
How to get there: Take the MRT Songshan-Xindian Line (Green Line) to Gongguan Station. From Exit 1, it’s about a 10-minute walk southwest along Tingzhou Road toward the Xindian River to reach the entrance.
29. Huashan 1914 Creative Park (華山1914文化創意產業園區)
Photo: @saoloryang on Instagram
Huashan 1914 Creative Park is where Taipei’s creative spirit shines.
Once a winery and brewery, its red-brick warehouses are now home to indie shops, design studios, galleries, and cafés. On weekends, the park buzzes with craft markets, pop-up fairs, and performances, while exhibitions and an art-house cinema keep things lively year-round.
It’s an ideal spot to browse local crafts, grab a coffee, and soak up the mix of heritage architecture and modern creativity.
Photo: @saoloryang on Instagram
Best time to visit: Afternoons are ideal, especially on weekends when markets and events bring even more energy.
How to get there: Take the MRT Bannan Line (Blue Line) to Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station. From Exit 1, it’s about a 5-10 minute walk to the park entrance.
30. Pinglin (坪林)
Pinglin is a quiet tea town just outside Taipei, where time slows among rolling tea hills. Watch farmers hand-pick leaves, explore century-old gardens, and join tastings with masters who have spent a lifetime perfecting their craft.
Take a workshop to make your own tea, wander plantations with sweeping views, or sip a steaming cup of Baozhong tea brewed over an open flame. Food in Pinglin often comes with a tea twist, from local dishes infused with leaves to full tea feasts.
Don’t miss Hsu’s Handmade Noodle Company, where you can try pulling sun-dried noodles by hand.
Best time to visit: Spring and autumn for pleasant weather and lush tea fields. Weekends often have more workshops and tastings.
How to get there: Take the MRT Blue Line to Xindian Station, then transfer to a bus bound for Pinglin (about 40 minutes). Alternatively, a taxi or private car from central Taipei takes roughly an hour.
31. Miniatures Museum of Taiwan (袖珍博物館)
The Miniatures Museum of Taiwan is one of those unexpected finds that makes you smile.
Tucked away in Zhongshan District, it showcases tiny worlds. Here, you can "visit" European castles and dollhouses to everyday Taiwanese street scenes, all crafted with remarkable detail. It’s the kind of place where you lean in close, spot something new, and suddenly feel like you’re in Gulliver’s Travels. Though small, it’s packed with displays that fascinate both kids and adults.
Best time to visit: Any time, but it’s especially good on a rainy day when you’re looking for a cosy indoor activity.
How to get there: Take the MRT Songshan-Xindian Line (Green Line) to Songjiang Nanjing Station. From Exit 4, it’s about a 10-minute walk to the museum.
32. Cafe Dogs & Cats (小貓花園)
Photo: @ngs_family_cats on Instagram
Cafe Dogs & Cats is one of Taipei’s most well-loved animal cafés, and it delivers exactly what you expect.
Inside, playful cats lounge around while a friendly shiba inu soaks up the attention. The vibe is cosy and relaxed, like visiting a friend’s living room with pets. Order a latte or dessert, settle in, and enjoy the company.
For animal lovers, it’s a sweet and memorable stop. To make your visit more enjoyable, make sure to follow the house rules (no flash photos and be gentle when petting the animals).
Best time to visit: Afternoons on weekdays when it’s less crowded, so you’ll have more time and space to interact with the animals.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui–Xinyi Line (Red Line) to Shilin Station. From Exit 1, it’s about a 12–15 minute walk along Fuhua Road to reach the cafe at No. 129, Fuhua Road.
33. Taipei Puppetry Theatre (台北偶戲館)
Photo: @siu2ng on Instagram
The Taipei Puppetry Theatre is a cultural gem in Shilin’s Metropolitan Park, celebrating the centuries-old art of Taiwanese hand puppetry. Performances bring intricately crafted puppets to life, and some shows even include English narration.
The theatre also hosts workshops and exhibits on puppet-making and history, making it a charming way to connect with Taiwan’s cultural heritage.
Best time to visit: Check the theatre performance schedule in advance, as shows are not daily. Weekend afternoons often feature family-friendly performances.
How to get there: Take the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) to Shilin Station. From there, it’s about a 10–15 minute walk to Metropolitan Park, where the Taipei Puppetry Theatre is located.
Getting Around Taipei
Thanks to the city's efficient public transportation, getting around navigating is a breeze even for travellers. If it's your first time visiting Taipei, don't worry.
Taipei MRT
There are several passes you can buy to make your trip stress-free; and these are the EasyCard, MRT Pass, and Fun Pass. Each have their own benefits, which are listed below.
Pass Type | Best For | Price Range | What’s Included | When It Saves You Money |
Most travellers | TWD 100 (USD 3) deposit + top-ups | Pay-as-you-go on MRT, buses, YouBike, some taxis, convenience stores | Everyday use. It's flexible, offers small discounts, and transfer perks. | |
MRT Tourist Pass | Intensive city sightseeing days | TWD 150–700 (USD 5-23) for 1-5 days | Unlimited MRT rides (some versions include buses) | If you’re riding the MRT 5+ times a day. |
Sightseers ticking off major attractions | TWD 1,200 (USD 39) for two days / TWD 1,500 (USD 49) for three days | Unlimited MRT/bus rides and entry to 30+ attractions (Taipei 101, Maokong Gondola, etc.) | When you plan to visit lots of included sights in a short time. |
Getting around Taipei is extremely foreigner-friendly. All MRT stations and trains have English signs and announcements, same for most buses. Station names might have alternative spellings (e.g., Chunghsiao vs Zhongxiao, the latter is now standard), but generally the signage is understandable. Of course, it might help to learn some Chinese to make your trip more seamless.
Pro Tip: Key phrases: “請問這公車到___嗎？” (Qǐngwèn zhè gōngchē dào ___ ma? / Excuse me, does this bus go to ___?) will make it easier if asking locals for help.
If you're travelling with kids, the MRT has elevators and priority seating. This is perfect if your tot sits on a stroller.
Taxis can be a saviour if you have tired kids after a long day (and car seats are not required by law for taxis, though use your judgment).
Additionally, nursing rooms are common in MRT stations and department stores. To make it easier for you, it's best to make sure your accommodation during your stay in Taipei is near the MRT stations.
Seasonal Tips For Your Trip
Wondering what's the best time to visit Taipei?
Taiwan is beautiful all-year round, but your experience can vary depending which season you go. Each month have something unique to offer, so depending on what you want to see, the season you visit the city will determine how fun your time in Taipei will be.
To make your decision-making easier, here's what you can expect in Taipei per season.
Season | Weather | Highlights | Key Festivals & Events |
Spring (Mar–May) | Mild (20-25°C), some rain | Cherry blossoms, azalea & camellia blooms, great hiking | Hakka Tung Blossom Festival (Apr) |
Summer (Jun–Sep) | Hot & humid (30–36°C), typhoons Jul–Sep | Night markets are more busy, long days, lively streets | Dragon Boat Festival (Jun), Ghost Month (Aug) |
Autumn (Oct–Nov) | Warm, less rain, comfy temps | Best all-round weather, outdoor exploring | Mid-Autumn Festival (Oct), Pride Parade (Oct), National Day (Oct 10) |
Winter (Dec–Feb) | Cool & damp (12–18°C) | Hot springs, hot pot season, festive lights | Christmasland (Dec), New Year's Eve (Dec), Lunar New Year (Jan/Feb), Lantern Festival (Feb), Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival (Feb) |
Time To Start Packing For Your Taipei Trip
Taipei is a city that truly has it all: towering landmarks, vibrant night markets, quiet temples, leafy parks, and delectable eats. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, explore, and savour every moment.
You might find yourself gazing at the skyline from Elephant Mountain, bargaining for trinkets at a night market, soaking in a hot spring in Beitou, or simply sipping milk tea while people-watching in Ximending. Each experience adds another layer to Taipei’s charm.