Discover Taipei: The Ultimate First-Time Traveler Guide with Areas to Stay, 5-Day Itinerary, Must-See Attractions, Restaurants, and Activities

"Night view from Taipei 101" by Dixita Dusara/ CC0 1.0

Planning a trip to Taipei? This complete travel guide covers the best areas to stay, a 5-day itinerary, must-see attractions, restaurants, shopping, and essential travel tips.

🏨 Best Areas to Stay in Taipei

Ximending – A lively area known for shopping, street food, and youth culture.
Da’an District – Best for luxury stays, cafes, and proximity to Taipei 101.
Zhongshan District – Central location with easy access to museums and night markets.
Shilin District – Great for families and close to the famous Shilin Night Market.
Beitou – Best for hot springs and a relaxing getaway.

Pro Tip: Stay near an MRT station for convenient city travel.

🚆 Transportation Tips

Taipei MRT – The most efficient and clean way to travel.
YouBike – Rent a bike for short city trips.
Taxis & Uber – Affordable and widely available.
Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) – Ideal for day trips to other cities.

Tip: Get an EasyCard for cashless MRT, bus, and YouBike rides.

🗓️ 5-Day Taipei Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

Day 1: Iconic Taipei Sights

“Taiwan No1” by z/ CC0 1.0

Visit Taipei 101, one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world.
Explore Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall for a glimpse into Taiwan’s history.
Wander through Da’an Park, Taipei’s largest green space.
Dinner: Din Tai Fung – World-famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).

Day 2: Cultural & Historic Taipei

Start at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall for the changing of the guard.
Visit Longshan Temple, the city’s most famous temple.
Stroll through Bopiliao Old Street for historical charm.
Dinner: Shin Yeh – Traditional Taiwanese cuisine.

Day 3: Shopping & Night Markets

“Taiwan cross walk with people and buildings” by zimbo333/ CC0 1.0

Shop at Ximending, Taipei’s vibrant shopping district.
Visit Eslite Spectrum Songyan, a bookstore and creative mall.
Indulge at Shilin Night Market – Taiwan’s biggest night market.
Dinner: Street food – Try stinky tofu, oyster omelet, and bubble tea.

Day 4: Nature & Hot Springs

Take the MRT to Beitou Hot Springs for a relaxing soak.
Hike Xiangshan (Elephant Mountain) for breathtaking city views.
Explore Tamsui Old Street, a waterfront district with street snacks.
Dinner: Fisherman’s Wharf – Seafood by the river.

Day 5: Day Trips & Hidden Gems

Take a day trip to Jiufen, a charming mountain village.
Visit Shifen Waterfall and release a sky lantern at Shifen Old Street.
End the trip with a scenic sunset at Maokong Gondola.
Dinner: Chengdu Sichuan Restaurant – Famous for spicy hot pot.

🏛️ Must-See Attractions in Taipei

“Shifen Waterfall, a ledge waterfall in Taiwan” by Michael Tiña/ CC0 1.0

Taipei 101 – The city’s iconic landmark.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall – A tribute to Taiwan’s former leader.
Longshan Temple – A beautifully preserved Buddhist temple.
Elephant Mountain – Best spot for skyline photography.
Tamsui Old Street – A scenic waterfront district.
Jiufen – A picturesque old town with tea houses and stunning views.
Shifen Waterfall – Taiwan’s “Little Niagara Falls.”

🛍️ Top Shopping Spots

Ximending – Best for streetwear and youth culture.
Taipei 101 Mall – Luxury shopping and designer brands.
Raohe Night Market – Great for souvenirs and food.
Shilin Night Market – The largest and most famous night market.
Eslite Bookstore – A paradise for book lovers.

🍽️ 10 Must-Try Restaurants in Taipei

“Aiyu Jelly, a summertime dessert in Taiwan” by Michael Tiña/ CC0 1.0

Din Tai Fung – The best soup dumplings in the world.
Shin Yeh – Traditional Taiwanese dishes.
RAW – Michelin-starred modern Taiwanese cuisine.
Kao Chi – Famous for pan-fried soup dumplings.
Ay-Chung Flour Rice Noodle – A must-visit street food spot.
Fuhang Soy Milk – The best traditional Taiwanese breakfast.
Mala Hotpot – One of the best hotpot experiences in Taipei.
Addiction Aquatic Development – Premium seafood market dining.
Modern Toilet Restaurant – A quirky, bathroom-themed eatery.
Bubble Tea Shops (50 Lan, Chun Shui Tang, Tiger Sugar) – Taiwan’s famous drink.

🎡 Top 5 Family-Friendly Activities

Taipei Zoo – Home to pandas and exotic animals.
Maokong Gondola – Scenic cable car ride to tea plantations.
National Palace Museum – Houses ancient Chinese artifacts.
Taipei Children’s Amusement Park – A fun-filled park for kids.
Shilin Night Market – Family-friendly games and food stalls.

❤️ Top 5 Romantic Experiences for Couples

Sunset at Fisherman’s Wharf – Stunning waterfront views.
Jiufen Tea Houses – A dreamy setting with mountain views.
Hot Spring Retreat in Beitou – A perfect relaxation spot.
Maokong Gondola & Tea Tasting – A peaceful experience above the hills.
Fine Dining at RAW – A Michelin-starred romantic dinner.

🎫 Taipei Passes & Discounts

EasyCard – Cashless payments for MRT, buses, and stores.
Taipei Fun Pass – Unlimited transport + free entry to attractions.
Taipei 101 Observatory Combo Ticket – Includes priority access.
Taiwan High-Speed Rail Pass – Ideal for long-distance travel.

🎒 Essential Travel Tips

Public Transport – The MRT is the best way to get around.
Weather – Spring and autumn are the best seasons to visit.
Local Etiquette – Bow slightly when greeting locals, and avoid loud conversations in public.
Cash vs. Cards – Many small shops prefer cash; ATMs are widely available.

🌏 Taipei Awaits!

From towering skyscrapers to bustling night markets and tranquil temples, Taipei is a city of contrasts waiting to be explored. Follow this guide to make the most of your 5-day adventure!