Whether you have the opportunity to do a long stopover in Taipei, or you want to really explore the capital before heading elsewhere, this best of Taipei travel itinerary should help you get started. It’ll show you the highlights of this dynamic city, from its historical neighborhoods and street markets, to the beautiful mountains and hot springs nearby.
All of the tourist spots can be reached with public transportation, so consider purchasing one of the Taipei Metro passes. If you are here on a layover, the Taoyuan Airport and Taipei Metro Ticket is perfect.
Day 1 – Central Taipei
Start your Taipei adventures with a trip up Taipei 101, the city’s tallest observation deck, then grab lunch at the crazy toilet restaurant. Next head to the spectacular National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, do a bit of shopping at the hip Huashan 1914 Creative Park and then end the day with tasty street food at Raohe.
Day 2 – Qixing Mountain
Qixingshan is one of Yangmingshan National Park’s most famous hikes. Afterwoods relax at Lengshuikeng Hot Springs if you need to soothe your legs.
Day 3 – Beitou Hot Spring
See Taiwan’s main collection of treasures at the National Palace Museum, before continuing up to Beitou, Taipei’s premier hot spring town. The local museum, located in a former Japanese colonial public bath, is a highlight for many.
Day 4 – Tamsui
Tamsui is where locals go for the weekend to enjoy seaside views and attractions. Tamsui Old Street is full of delicious snacks, while nearby there are lots of interesting historical sites. Getting here on a bicycle makes for a lovely ride along the beautiful coastline, so consider using a YouBike on this day.
Day 5 – Xindian
Explore one of Taipei’s most stunning gardens and mansions at The Lin Family Mansion and Garden. After this, head down south to enjoy the street markets, caves and the famous suspension bridge in Xindian.
Any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments below.