10 of the best things to do in Taipei

Thinking of travelling to the buzzing, vibrant, food-loving capital of Taiwan? Although the city’s most famous for its night markets and for being a shopping haven, there’s so much more the city has to offer. Whether you’re looking to indulge in the local culture and history, admire the pristine landscapes or feast at world-renowned night markets, Taiwan has it all.

Why we put together a list of the best things to do in Taipei

Taipei is now one of Asia’s most popular tourist destinations, with tourist numbers in Taiwan’s capital city increasing dramatically in particular over the last decade. There are so many things to do in Taipei, whether it’s the incredible architecture or the unique shopping experiences.

READ MORE: Here’s our list of the best places to visit in Taiwan

Taiwan’s capital city’s cultural kaleidoscope pulses everywhere you go. Incense-veiled temples from dynastic times coexist with neon street life from a decidedly more modern era. Taipei has dozens of world-class restaurants where gourmets can sample the best regional Chinese cuisine; and for the gourmand, there are plenty of night markets serving up delectable evening snacks in a chaotic excitement and fun environment.

Here’s our list of the 10 best things to do in Taipei:

• Hike up the scenic Yangmingshan Mountain
• Stroll down the famous Jiufen Old Street
• Admire the view of the skyline at Taipei 101
• Savour unique street food at the Shilin Night Market
• Ride a bike by the riverside
• Explore Taiwan’s most famous waterfall – The Shifen Waterfall
• Visit the historical Longshan temple
• Trek through the Taroko Gorge National Park
• Take a dip in Taipei’s Beitou Hot Springs
• Go on a food tour

Hike up the scenic Yangmingshan Mountain

If you’re looking to soak in the natural beauty of Taipei, the Yangmingshan National Park is the place to be. Just a quick trip from the bustling capital and you can be taking in spectacular views of lush greenery and enjoying gentle breezes. Expect large crowds during the cherry blossom season in Spring. For those heading to Taipei in mid-march, head to the park to pick calla lilies and take them home. While you’re there, be on the lookout for the Formosan Blue Magpie, one of Taiwan’s native bird species.

There are many trails to explore but the Qingtiangang and Xiaoyoukeng are the most popular. The former is a short hike from the visitor centre and offers you scenes of lush grasslands and wild cows grazing. Xiaoyoukeng on the other hand features steaming vents and sulfur deposits and also leads to the park’s highest peak – giving you the best view of downtown Taipei.

Stroll down the famous Jiufen Old Street

Fans of the iconic Japanese animation “Spirited Away” will find this place surprisingly familiar. This charming, bustling village is great for those looking to savour a delicious Taiwanese meal, take loads of pictures and shop for souvenirs. There’s also tons of street food to be tried, including the coffee nougat biscuit, peanut ice cream roll and braised pork rice. After a day’s stroll through the streets, you can even enjoy a cup of tea at the picturesque A-Mei Teahouse, the iconic building featured in almost all images of Jiufen Old Street.

This picturesque street is many people’s must-visit list of things to do in Taipei.

Jiufen Old Street: Jishan St, Ruifang District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 224

Admire the view of the skyline at Taipei 101

You’ve probably heard of Taipei 101 as it’s one of the most famous buildings in Taipei. Here, you can ride on the world’s fastest elevator to the observatory deck on the 89th story, and enjoy breathtaking 360-degree views of the city’s skyline. It only takes a mere 37 seconds! The Observatory is open every day from 9 am-10 pm, but the best time to visit is in the late afternoon before sunset. Just be sure to get there early as it can get crowded!

This is an easy and fun thing for you and your friends, so make sure to add this to your list if you are wondering what to do in Taipei.

To get there, take a train on the Xinyi Line and get off at Taipei 101 Station.

Savour unique street food at the Shilin Night Market

Street food is generally cheap, delicious and unique. What’s not to love? The Shilin night market is the best and most famous market to try some traditional and special street food. With over 500 food vendors, you’ll be sure to find a snack to love. This place is also host to the Hai You Pork Ribs, one of the 10 spots on the 2018 Michelin Taipei street food list.

Other must-tries include the penis-shaped cake, mee sua (vermicelli noodles), pan-fried buns, bubble tea, and stinky tofu. There’s even an underground, air-conditioned food court to eat at and escape the humid weather.

Shilin Night Market: No. 101, Jihe Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111

Ride a bike by the riverside

Want to take it slow and savour the greenery of Taipei? Consider taking a bike ride through the riverside and making stops on the way to explore the city’s landmarks.

There are plenty of Bike trails for you to choose from, but some of the more popular ones include the Golden Riverside Bike Path stretches for about 5.4km and the Tamsui River Right Bank Bike Path which goes for about 9.4km before ending at the Shezi Daotou Park. For a tranquil spot to rest and a spectacular view of the sunset, consider this route.

Explore Taiwan’s most famous waterfall – The Shifen Waterfall

For waterfall lovers, this next destination is a no-brainer. The stunning Shifen waterfall is the most renowned cascading waterfall in Taiwan. Perched along the Keelung River, the 40m “little Niagra falls” even creates a rainbow as it splashes into the lake.

Apart from the waterfall, be sure to take a short walk to the Shifen Old Streets, which is a mere located 30 minutes away from the waterfall. To get here, you’ll want to hop on a train from Ruifang Station to Shifen Station.

From there, it’s a 20-minute walk on backroads to the entrance area, guided by plenty of road signs. Be prepared to scale some stairs and walk a distance!

Shifen Waterfall: 226, Taiwan, New Taipei City, Pingxi District, 乾坑10號

Visit the historical Longshan temple

Prefer a traditional and authentic experience in Taipei? Add a visit to this 300-year-old temple to your itinerary. The Longshan Temple was reconstructed back in 1738 by settlers from Fujia and remains one of the most culturally significant temples in Taiwan.

The temple is home to some exquisite examples of traditional folk art, including bronze dragon columns and wooden sculptures. If you’re up for it, you can also get your fortune told here – by two feathered tellers.

Trek through the Taroko Gorge National Park

The Taroko Gorge National Park is one of the most scenic places in Taiwan. The pristine, blue Liwu river waters running through the 19-km-long canyon are a must-see. If you’re planning to, be sure to set at least an entire day aside for travel. The most popular way to head to the canyon is via train to Hualien.

Once you’re there, you can book one of several tour operators and be on your way to explore the national park. Some of the best hikes include the Zhuilu Old Trail Hike and Baiyang Trail.

Address: 972, Taiwan, Hualien County, Xiulin Township, 富世291號

Take a dip in Taipei’s Beitou Hot Springs

Looking for a place to just relax and unwind? Head to the Beitou Hot Spring nestled in the volcanic Yangmingshan. Immerse yourself in warm, mineral-rich waters containing white sulfur, green, and iron sulfur – each with its unique benefits. Private hot springs, hot spring foot baths and co-ed outdoor pools are available.

To enjoy the private hot springs, check yourselves into one of the many hot springs hotels in Beitou. Some more famous ones include Radium Kagaya Taipei (don’t worry, the waters are safe to soak in) and Marshal Zen Garden.

Beitou Hot Springs: Address: No. 6號, Zhongshan Rd, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan 112

Go on a food tour

For foodies looking to explore the country through your taste buds, Taiwan’s got you covered. The region is known for a variety of savoury street food and regional specialities that’ll satisfy your cravings for local food culture. Book a tour with a friendly local guide to make sure you’re getting the most authentic and scrumptious food there is. From small-group night market food tours to full-day private tours with tea-tasting and cooking classes, there’s a fun and delicious experience for every traveller.

Do you have a favourite place to visit in Taipei? Let us know in the comments or send us an email and we’ll include them in our next list.