3 Days in Taipei: Best Things to Do for First-Time Visitors

Taipei had always topped my must-visit list, with two trips planned—one just before the pandemic and another during its height—both of which were ultimately canceled. So, when I finally arrived, it felt like a long-awaited journey, and I’m thrilled to say it did not disappoint.

With its vibrant blend of old and new, incredible street food, and breathtaking views, Taipei exceeded all my expectations. During my 3 days in Taipei, I immersed myself in cultural highlights, enjoyed delicious food, and marveled at the stunning skyline after a very sweaty climb up Elephant Mountain.

In this Taipei guide, discover the top things to do in Taipei, where to stay in Taipei, and what to eat in Taipei, perfect for any length of visit or a Taipei layover. From must-see sights and unique culinary stops to unique day trips from Taipei, this itinerary covers it all.

This is my guide to a wonderful 3 days in Taipei.

Getting In and Around Taipei

Taipei’s Taoyuan International Airport offers direct flights to numerous major hubs in Asia, North America, and Europe, making it a convenient gateway for travelers.

Many of these routes are operated by popular airlines like China Airlines, EVA Air, Cathay Pacific, and ANA, with affordable fares on both full-service and budget carriers. Here are some popular direct routes from Taipei, along with their flight times:

• Tokyo (Narita, Haneda) – 3h 10m
• Hong Kong – 1h 50m
• Seoul (Incheon) – 2h 30m
• Bangkok – 3h 50m
• Singapore – 4h 30m
• Los Angeles – 12h 15m
• San Francisco – 11h 45m

    Compare prices on flights to Taipei with Skyscanner

Taipei Metro

Taipei’s main international hub is well-connected to the city by the Taoyuan Metro Airport MRT. In just 35 minutes, you can get from the airport to Taipei Main Station, the city’s main transport hub. From there, you can easily hop on the MRT to explore just about any corner of Taipei.

If you’re planning on taking public transportation, I recommend purchasing an EasyCard in advance or at the airport, which can be used on the MRT, buses, and even at convenience stores like 7-Eleven. Alternatively, Uber and local taxis are widely available if you prefer the convenience of door-to-door service.

Cash and Cards in Taipei

Although credit cards are accepted at most hotels, restaurants, and malls, you’ll need cash for street food and local markets.

ATMs are available at the airport after customs, and I recommend withdrawing at least NT$3,000 (about USD $100) to cover basic expenses like food, transport, and small souvenirs. You’ll find yourself using cash frequently in places like night markets and smaller eateries.

3 Days in Taipei: Suggested Itinerary

During my 3 days in Taipei, I made a point to cover the city’s historic landmarks, explore its bustling night markets, and dive into a few unique tours. Here’s how you can make the most of your visit, with flexible options to match your tastes, the weather, and your interests.

Day 1: Culture, History, and Night Markets

Start your trip by biking to some of Taipei’s most iconic cultural landmarks before heading to the city’s entertainment center.

Morning Bike Tour with Taipei Bike Works

I highly recommend the Taipei Bike Works Morning Tour for a fantastic introduction to Taipei. This four-hour guided bike ride through the vibrant Datong and Ximen Districts provides an immersive way to experience both Taipei’s historical and contemporary highlights. It’s not only a fun way to sightsee but also gives you a real feel for the city’s culture and atmosphere.

Throughout the tour, our guide John shared fascinating stories and insights that really brought Taipei’s landmarks to life. Despite a bit of rain, the experience was seamless and incredibly enjoyable.

Beyond seeing the sights, this tour is perfect for building the confidence to explore Taipei’s bike-friendly streets on your own afterward. With plenty of rental and city bike options, you’ll be ready to continue discovering the city’s charms by bike independently.

For full details on my morning discovering Taipei by bike, check out my full review.

Pro Tip: This Taipei tour includes breakfast so this is a great way to discover where and what to eat in Taipei with a local guide before exploring the city!

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

One of the most famous things to do in Taipei, the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is a must-see for first-time visitors.

The massive plaza features beautiful gardens and the striking blue-and-white memorial building dedicated to Chiang Kai-shek, a former president of the Republic of China. Be sure to catch the changing of the guard at the top of every hour for a fascinating display of Taiwanese tradition.

Note that a stop at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is included in your Taipei Bike Works Morning Bike Tour. However, you may want to return to spend more time in the massive complex.

Explore Ximending

End your first day in Taipei by visiting Ximending, a lively district that has become a popular destination for both locals and visitors. Known for its mix of modern shopping and traditional street food, Ximending is often compared to Tokyo’s Harajuku due to its vibrant energy.

As you wander through the streets and , you’ll find a wide range of stores selling everything from fashion to electronics, alongside food stalls offering local favorites. Be sure to try bubble tea, a must-try Taiwanese drink, and Taiwanese fried chicken, known for its crispy exterior and juicy interior.

In addition to the shopping and food, take a moment to check out the colourful crosswalk that add a unique touch to the area. For a relaxed stop, head to Ximen Beer Bar, a casual spot perfect for enjoying a cold drink, and don’t miss the vibrant Ximending Night Market.

Whether you’re exploring the market’s shops or enjoying a snack, Ximending provides a great introduction to the mix of modern and traditional that defines Taipei.

Day 2: Taipei Tours and Day Trip

Day two is all about savoring the best flavors of Taiwan and exploring beyond the city center.

Taipei Eats Food Tour

Start your day with the highly recommended Taipei Eats Food Tour, an immersive experience that takes you through the heart of Taipei’s vibrant food scene. This tour offers a unique opportunity to sample traditional Taiwanese dishes at local eateries, each serving a slice of the city’s culinary history.

You’ll enjoy fish ball soup, a flavorful broth with delicate fish balls, and noodles from a century-old shop, offering a taste of authentic Taiwanese flavors that have stood the test of time.

The tour doesn’t just focus on food, though. It’s a great way to learn about the cultural significance of each dish, with your guide offering insights into local food traditions and the stories behind some of Taipei’s most beloved meals. Along the way, you’ll discover hidden gems tucked away in the city’s bustling neighborhoods.

For more details on one of my favorite Taipei tours, be sure to check out my full review of the Taipei Eats Old School Food Tour.

Day Trip to Jiufen

After lunch, take a short day trip to Jiufen, a charming hillside town located about an hour outside of Taipei. Famous for its teahouses and narrow, lantern-lit streets, Jiufen inspired the setting for the movie Spirited Away. Wander through the old streets, sip tea with a view, and enjoy local snacks like taro balls and sweet potato mochi.

My visit was a wet one, so I recommend checking the forecast and adjusting your plans as needed. While I opted for a self-guided tour, a guided tour to Jiufen might be a better choice if you’re not comfortable navigating buses and trains.

Other Day Trips from Taipei

If you’re looking to explore beyond Taipei besides Jiufen, several incredible day trips from Taipei showcase Taiwan’s natural beauty and rich culture.

A visit to Yehliu Geopark is a great option, where you can admire unique rock formations, including the famous Queen’s Head. Alternatively, you can head to the charming town of Pingxi, known for its sky lantern festivals and beautiful mountain views. Both locations are easily accessible from Taipei, and you can book a guided tour to make the most of your day.

Alternatively, you can take a full day tour to Taroko Gorge, one of Taiwan’s most stunning natural landmarks, where you’ll hike through lush landscapes and marvel at dramatic cliffs and rivers.

Raohe Night Market

In the evening, head back to Taipei and visit Raohe Night Market, one of the oldest night markets in the city. Here, I had some of the best pepper pork buns I’ve ever tasted—crispy on the outside, juicy and flavorful on the inside.

Raohe is also a great place to shop for souvenirs and enjoy some late-night bites.

Day 3: Taipei 101, Elephant Mountain, and More

On your final day, visit some of Taipei’s most famous landmarks and take in panoramic views of the city.

Climbing Elephant Mountain

If you’re up for a hike, Elephant Mountain offers one of the best views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline. The trail is short but steep, and it’s well worth the climb for stunning views of the Taipei skyline, especially at sunset.

I recommend starting or ending your day with the climb to avoid the midday heat. I went at dusk and caught a beautiful sunset over the city.

For my full experience climbing Elephant Mountain, including tips and takeaways, check out my review.

Taipei 101

Now that you’ve seen Taipei 101 from afar, it’s time to experience it up close.

No visit to Taipei is complete without stopping by Taipei 101, once the tallest building in the world. Take the high-speed elevator to the observation deck on the 89th floor for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains—on a clear day, you can see as far as the coastline. For an extra treat, visit Din Tai Fung in the Taipei 101 mall, renowned for its xiaolongbao (soup dumplings).

If you have more time, explore the shopping mall’s luxury boutiques or enjoy a meal at one of the tower’s high-end restaurants. Don’t forget to check out the indoor and outdoor observatories to experience the building from every angle.

Relax with a Traditional Taiwanese Massage

After a day of exploring and hiking, there’s no better way to unwind than with a traditional Taiwanese massage. Taipei is home to numerous spas offering relaxing treatments, and a foot massage is the perfect way to soothe your tired feet after a grueling climb.

I highly recommend Yang’s Foot Massage, located near Ximending, which is known for its skilled therapists and tranquil atmosphere. If you’re looking for a more comprehensive experience, check out The Wellspa, a luxurious spa offering a range of treatments from traditional massages to rejuvenating facials.

For the ultimate relaxation, why not finish your day with a visit to the Thermal Valley in Beitou? After your massage, head to this famous hot spring area where you can soak in the warm, mineral-rich waters. It’s the ideal way to unwind and recover before you head back to your hotel. Whether you choose a spa or hot spring experience, both are a perfect way to end your day of adventure in Taipei.

1 Day Taipei Itinerary: Layover Highlights

If you have just one day in Taipei due to a layover, here’s how to make the most of your limited time:

Morning: Choose between the Taipei Bike Works Morning Tour for a guided ride through the city’s districts, or the Taipei Eats Food Tour to sample classic Taiwanese dishes like beef noodles and fish ball soup. Both offer a unique glimpse into Taipei’s culture.

Lunch: Continue your exploration with more local flavors. If you opted for the bike tour in the morning, treat yourself to some street food at a nearby market. If you did the food tour, enjoy a relaxed lunch with a view.

Afternoon: Head up Taipei 101 for stunning views of the city, then hike up Elephant Mountain for a panoramic perspective of the skyline.

Evening: Wrap up your day by exploring the lively streets of Ximending or visiting a night market for last-minute souvenirs before heading back to the airport.

For more on how to make the most of a short layover, check out my detailed guides on the Taipei Plaza Premium Lounge and Thai Air Business Class experience.

Where to Stay in Taipei

When it comes to finding where to stay in Taipei, I recommend choosing accommodations near an MRT station for easy access to the city’s major attractions, night markets, and iconic sights.

Here are some of the best neighborhoods for convenient and enjoyable stays in Taipei.

Ximending Neighborhood

Known as the “Harajuku of Taipei,” Ximending is a vibrant, youthful neighborhood filled with shops, cafes, and cultural spots. It’s close to Taipei Main Station, making it a perfect base for visiting Longshan Temple, the Red House Theater, and the famous Ximending Night Market. The Ximen MRT Station (Blue Line) is nearby, making travel throughout Taipei quick and straightforward.

Budget Option: Hotel Relax Five

Located near both Ximending and Taipei Main Station, Hotel Relax Five is a budget-friendly choice with convenient access to the MRT. For well under $100 USD per night, you’ll have a comfortable bed and enjoy the area’s lively energy without breaking the bank.

Mid-Range Option: WESTGATE Hotel

WESTGATE Hotel offers a slightly more upscale experience, with modern rooms and excellent amenities. Just steps from Ximen MRT Station, you’ll be close to both major sites and night markets, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want to explore Taipei’s vibrant culture. Like my Thonglor Bangkok hotel, the Westgate Hotel has excellent amenities.

Da’an District (Near Taipei 101)

Da’an is an upscale district known for its green spaces, trendy cafes, and its proximity to Taipei 101 and Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall. The area’s mix of luxury shopping and local markets makes it an excellent choice for travelers looking for convenience and a more polished atmosphere.

Taipei 101/World Trade Center MRT Station (Red Line) is nearby, which provides easy access to Elephant Mountain, the bustling Tonghua Night Market, and other attractions.

Budget Option: Dandy Hotel – Daan Park Branch

With its cheerful decor and prime location, Dandy Hotel offers budget travelers a cozy option near Da’an Forest Park and just a short MRT ride away from Taipei 101. Rates start under $100 USD per night, giving you great value close to some of Taipei’s top sites.

Mid-Range Option: Home Hotel Da’an

This stylish, mid-range hotel is within walking distance of Taipei 101 and close to Da’an Forest Park. Known for its sleek design and comfortable rooms, Home Hotel offers stunning corner windows with views of the city, and easy access to the Red Line at Taipei 101/World Trade Center MRT Station.

A Great Way to Spend 3 Days in Taipei

In the end, my first trip to Taipei was well worth the wait—it did not disappoint and certainly won’t be my last! With just 3 days in Taipei, I was able to experience the city’s top attractions, join some fantastic tours, and indulge in Taipei’s incredible food scene.

Whether you’re a foodie, a culture buff, or an outdoor enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. If you have suggestions for my next trip, let me know in the comments below! And if you have more time, consider taking a day trip from Taipei to explore Taiwan’s stunning surroundings.

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