Taipei, the vibrant capital of Taiwan, is a hub of culture, modernity, and entertainment. It’s a city that has something to offer everyone, from history buffs to foodies and outdoor enthusiasts.
If you’re planning a trip to Taipei in 2025, there are plenty of fun things to do to keep you occupied. Here are just a few ideas:
- Visit the Taipei 101 Observatory
The Taipei 101 Observatory is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Taipei. It offers stunning views of the city from its perch on the 89th floor of the Taipei 101 skyscraper. The observatory is open to the public daily, and tickets can be purchased online or at the door.
- Hike Elephant Mountain
Elephant Mountain is a popular hiking destination located in the Xinyi District of Taipei. The hike is relatively easy, and it takes about 30 minutes to reach the summit. From the top of Elephant Mountain, you’ll have breathtaking views of Taipei 101 and the surrounding city.
- Explore the National Palace Museum
The National Palace Museum is home to a vast collection of Chinese art and artifacts. The museum is located in the Shilin District of Taipei, and it’s open to the public daily. Admission is free, and guided tours are available in English and Chinese.
- Visit the Shilin Night Market
The Shilin Night Market is one of the most popular night markets in Taipei. It’s a great place to experience the city’s vibrant street food culture. The night market is open from 6pm to midnight, and it’s located in the Shilin District of Taipei.
- Take a cooking class
If you’re a foodie, taking a cooking class is a great way to learn more about Taiwanese cuisine. There are several cooking schools in Taipei that offer classes for all levels of experience.
- Go shopping
Taipei is a shopper’s paradise. There are countless malls, boutiques, and department stores in the city. You’ll be able to find everything from designer clothing to electronics to traditional Taiwanese handicrafts.
- Visit the Taipei Zoo
The Taipei Zoo is home to over 6,000 animals from around the world. The zoo is located in the Wenshan District of Taipei, and it’s open to the public daily. Admission is free, and there are guided tours available in English and Chinese.
- Take a day trip to Jiufen
Jiufen is a small mountain town located about an hour’s drive from Taipei. The town is known for its beautiful scenery, its narrow streets, and its tea houses. Jiufen is a popular tourist destination, and it’s a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of Taipei.
- Attend a Taiwanese opera performance
Taiwanese opera is a unique form of musical theater that combines traditional Chinese music and dance with storytelling. There are several theaters in Taipei that offer Taiwanese opera performances.
- Relax in a hot spring
Taiwan is home to several hot springs, and there are a few located near Taipei. Soaking in a hot spring is a great way to relax and rejuvenate after a long day of sightseeing.
These are just a few of the many fun things to do in Taipei. With its rich culture, delicious food, and beautiful scenery, Taipei is a city that has something to offer everyone.
Unlocking the Secrets of Taipei’s Thriving Night Market Scene
Taipei’s night markets are a vibrant part of the city’s culture. They’re a great place to experience the city’s street food, do some shopping, and people-watch.
There are several night markets in Taipei, each with its own unique atmosphere. The Shilin Night Market is the largest and most popular night market in Taipei. It’s a great place to try a variety of Taiwanese street food, from oyster omelets to stinky tofu.
The Dadaocheng Wharf Night Market is a smaller, more intimate night market located in the Dadaocheng Wharf area. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and handmade goods.
The Huaxi Street Night Market is a popular night market located in the Wanhua District of Taipei. It’s known for its delicious street food and its lively atmosphere.
If you’re visiting Taipei, be sure to check out one of the city’s many night markets. It’s a great way to experience the city’s vibrant culture and delicious food.
Taipei’s Hidden Gems: Off-the-Beaten-Path Adventures
Taipei is a city full of surprises. In addition to its well-known attractions, there are also a number of hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Here are a few off-the-beaten-path adventures in Taipei:
- Visit the Beitou Hot Springs
The Beitou Hot Springs are located in the Beitou District of Taipei. They’re a great place to relax and rejuvenate in a natural setting. There are several hot spring resorts in the area, where you can soak in a hot spring and enjoy a massage.
- Hike the Jiantan Mountain Trail
The Jiantan Mountain Trail is a popular hiking trail located in the Shilin District of Taipei. The trail is relatively easy, and it takes about 2 hours to complete. From the top of the trail, you’ll have beautiful views of Taipei and the surrounding mountains.
- Explore the Wulai Old Street
The Wulai Old Street is a small, charming street located in the Wulai District of Taipei. The street is lined with shops and restaurants, and it’s a great place to experience the culture of the Atayal people, one of Taiwan’s indigenous tribes.
- Visit the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park
The Songshan Cultural and Creative Park is a former tobacco factory that has been converted into a creative space. The park is home to art galleries, studios, and shops. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and handmade goods.
- Take a walk through the Dadaocheng Wharf area
The Dadaocheng Wharf area is a historic district located in the Dadaocheng District of Taipei. The area is home to several temples, warehouses, and old houses. It’s a great place to take a walk and explore the city’s history.
These are just a few of the many hidden gems waiting to be discovered in Taipei. If you’re looking for something off-the-beaten-path, be sure to check out one of these places.
Insider Tips for Navigating Taipei’s Transportation System
Taipei has a well-developed public transportation system that makes it easy to get around the city. Here are a few insider tips for navigating Taipei’s transportation system:
- Use the Taipei Metro
The Taipei Metro is a rapid transit system that serves the Taipei metropolitan area. It’s a clean, efficient, and affordable way to get around the city. The Taipei Metro has six lines, and it covers most of the major tourist attractions in the city.
- Use the Taipei City Buses
The Taipei City Buses are a network of buses that serve the Taipei metropolitan area. The buses are a good option for getting to places that are not served by the Taipei Metro. The Taipei City Buses are also relatively affordable, and they run frequently.
- Use the YouBike system
The YouBike system is a public bike sharing system that operates in Taipei. The system has over 10,000 bikes available for rent at over 400 stations throughout the city. The YouBike system is a great way to get around the city quickly and easily.
- Use taxis
Taxis are a convenient way to get around Taipei, but they can be expensive. It’s important to agree on a fare with the driver before you get in the taxi.
- Walk
Taipei is a very walkable city. Many of the city’s major attractions are within walking distance of each other. Walking is a great way to explore the city and get some exercise.
Here are some additional tips for getting around Taipei:
- Most of the Taipei Metro stations have English signs, and many of the buses have English announcements.
- You can use the Google Maps app to plan your trips and get directions.
- The Taipei City Government has a website that provides information on the city’s transportation system.
Taipei’s Food Scene: A Taste of Taiwan’s Culinary Delights
Taipei is a foodie’s paradise. The city is home to a wide variety of restaurants, from Michelin-starred restaurants to street food stands.
Here are a few of the must-try dishes in Taipei:
- Beef noodle soup
Beef noodle soup is a classic Taiwanese dish made with braised beef, noodles, and broth. The soup is typically served with pickled vegetables and a side of rice.
- Oyster omelet
Oyster omelet is a popular Taiwanese street food made with oysters, eggs, and cornstarch. The omelet is typically fried until it’s golden brown and crispy.
- Stinky tofu
Stinky tofu is a fermented tofu dish that is popular in Taiwan. The tofu is typically fried until it’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Stinky tofu is often served with a dipping sauce.
- Bubble tea
Bubble tea is a Taiwanese drink made with tea, milk, and tapioca pearls. The drink is typically served cold and with a straw.
- Fried chicken
