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Capital City Featured

Taipei

Taipei, the vibrant capital of Taiwan, is a city where tradition meets modernity. With stunning temples, bustling night markets, and a rich culture, visitors can explore a unique blend of history and innovation. Experience the warmth of Taiwanese hospitality as you navigate this dynamic metropolis.

About Taipei

Taipei is a city rich in history and modernity, known for its vibrant street life, delicious cuisine, and cultural landmarks. The capital of Taiwan, Taipei is home to the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper and numerous temples that reflect its Chinese heritage. The city's night markets are famous for their street food, offering everything from dumplings to bubble tea. With a unique blend of East and West, Taipei invites visitors to discover its charm and hospitality.

Taipei Location

Essential Info

Airport Code

TPE

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Taipei?

The best time to visit is during the fall (September to November) when the weather is cool and pleasant.

Do I need a visa to enter Taiwan?

Visa requirements depend on your nationality; many countries enjoy visa-free access or visa-on-arrival options.

What currency is used in Taipei?

The currency used is the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD).

Is Taipei safe for tourists?

Yes, Taipei is considered one of the safest cities in Asia for travelers.

Estimated Daily Budget

Accommodation	$50-100/night
Food	$10-30/day
Transport	$5-15/day
Activities	$10-50/day

How to Get There

Mode	Avg. Cost	Duration	Operating Hours	Discount / Tip
Flight (Taoyuan International Airport)	Varies by origin	N/A (main international gateway to Taipei)	24 hours	Songshan Airport (domestic, some regional international) is closer to the city but has far fewer routes
Airport MRT (Taoyuan Metro)	$4-5 (150-160 TWD) express; $3-4 (110-120 TWD) all-stop	35-40 min (express) to Taipei Main Station	06:00-23:00	The all-stop train is slightly cheaper and adds only a few minutes; both are far cheaper than a taxi
Airport Bus (Kuo-Kuang / other operators)	$4-5 (140-160 TWD)	50-70 min depending on traffic and destination	05:00-01:00 (some routes run through the night)	Runs later than the MRT, useful for red-eye or delayed flight arrivals
Taxi	$30-40 (950-1,200 TWD) plus highway tolls	40-60 min (longer in traffic)	24 hours	Fixed-fare taxi counters inside the terminal avoid meter disputes; agree on the fare type before departing

💰 Peak-time / cost note: Lunar New Year and long domestic holiday weekends see the heaviest airport traffic and the longest MRT/bus queues of the year.
💡 Cheapest option: The Airport MRT is the fastest and cheapest way into central Taipei in almost all traffic conditions.
⚠️ Watch out for: Use the official taxi counter inside the terminal to get a fixed fare rather than hailing a cab outside, where fare disputes are more common for first-time visitors.

Suggested Itinerary

Day	Morning	Afternoon	Evening
Day 1: Xinyi & Modern Taipei	Taipei 101 observation deck -- go early on a clear day for the best visibility.	Xiangshan (Elephant Mountain) hike for a classic Taipei 101 photo viewpoint.	Raohe Street Night Market for street food, a more local alternative to Shilin.
Day 2: History & Old Town	National Palace Museum, home to one of the world's largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts.	Longshan Temple and the historic Bopiliao Old Street nearby.	Ximending district for shopping and dinner, Taipei's youthful entertainment hub.
Day 3: Day Trip Option	Day trip to Jiufen (about 1 hour), the lantern-lit mountain town said to have inspired Spirited Away's setting.	Continue to nearby Shifen for sky lantern releasing and the waterfall, if time allows.	Return to Taipei for a final dinner at Shilin Night Market.

💡 Tip: Get an EasyCard on arrival -- it works on the MRT, buses, and even convenience store purchases, and is by far the most efficient way to get around given Taipei's extensive and reliable metro system.

Best Time to Visit

Mar-May — Spring brings blooming flowers and pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities.
Sep-Nov — Fall offers cooler temperatures and fewer tourists, making it ideal for exploration.

Getting Around

Airport to City — Take the MRT or an airport bus for convenient access to the city center.
Getting Around — Public transport is efficient; consider getting an EasyCard for seamless travel.

Practical Local Tips

Luggage Storage — You can find luggage storage services at Taipei Main Station, which allows you to securely store your bags while you explore the city.
Tipping Culture — Tipping is not customary in Taiwan; however, rounding up the bill or leaving small change at restaurants is appreciated but not expected.
Power Outlets — Taipei uses a voltage of 110V and plug types A and B, so make sure to bring a suitable adapter if your devices use different types.
Cash vs Card — While credit cards are accepted in many places, small shops and local markets often prefer cash, so it's advisable to carry some Taiwanese dollars.
Public Transit Etiquette — When using the MRT, remember to queue for trains and give priority seats to the elderly, pregnant women, and those with disabilities.
Public Restrooms / Trash Bins — Public restrooms are generally clean, but you may encounter some that do not provide toilet paper, so it's a good idea to carry a small supply with you.
Language Tips — While many signs are in English, learning a few basic Mandarin phrases can go a long way in helping you navigate and connect with locals.

Traveler Tips for Taipei

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Top Experiences in Taipei

Taipei 101 — Once the tallest building in the world, Taipei 101 offers stunning views from its observation deck.
National Palace Museum — Home to one of the largest collections of Chinese artifacts, this museum showcases Taiwan's rich history.
Shilin Night Market — This bustling night market is famous for its street food and vibrant atmosphere, perfect for food lovers.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall — A significant historical site, this memorial honors the former leader of Taiwan and features beautiful gardens.
Longshan Temple — An iconic temple known for its stunning architecture and spiritual atmosphere, a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.

Cultural & Heritage Sites in Taipei

Taipei Confucius Temple — A serene temple dedicated to Confucius, showcasing traditional architecture and cultural events.
Bao'an Temple — This historical temple is known for its intricate carvings and vibrant festivals held throughout the year.
Fort San Domingo — An old fort that offers insights into Taiwan's colonial history and stunning views of the river.

Museums & Galleries in Taipei

National Taiwan Museum — The oldest museum in Taiwan, it showcases the natural history and cultural heritage of the island. Free admission on certain days.
Taipei Fine Arts Museum — Focusing on contemporary art, this museum features local and international exhibitions in a beautiful setting.
Museum of World Religions — This museum explores various religions through interactive exhibits and artifacts, offering a unique perspective on faith.

Hiking Trails near Taipei

Elephant Mountain — A popular short hike that offers stunning views of Taipei and is perfect for sunset watching.
Yangmingshan National Park — Known for its hot springs and beautiful landscapes, this park has trails ranging from easy to challenging.
Teapot Mountain — A moderately difficult hike that rewards with breathtaking views and unique rock formations.

Cycling Routes near Taipei

Tamsui River Cycling Route — A scenic cycling route along the Tamsui River, perfect for a leisurely ride and enjoying the views.
Taipei Riverside Park — A bike-friendly area with dedicated paths, great for families and casual cyclists. Rentals are available nearby.
Zhongshan Park Cycling Path — A pleasant cycling path in the city center, surrounded by beautiful gardens and local attractions.

Festivals & Events in Taipei

Taipei Lantern Festival (Every February) — This festival features stunning lantern displays and cultural performances, celebrating the Lantern Festival.
Taipei International Flora Expo (Every November) — A large floral exhibition showcasing beautiful flower arrangements and gardening techniques.
Chinese New Year Festival (Late January to February) — Celebrated with vibrant parades, dragon dances, and family gatherings, marking the Lunar New Year.

Local Food to Try in Taipei

Beef Noodle Soup — A hearty dish featuring tender beef and flavorful broth, found in many local eateries.
Oyster Omelette — A savory omelette filled with fresh oysters, popular at night markets across the city.
Braised Pork Rice — A comforting bowl of rice topped with braised pork, commonly enjoyed as a meal on the go.
Bubble Tea — Originating from Taiwan, this sweet tea drink with chewy tapioca pearls is a must-try.

Seasonal Highlights in Taipei

Cherry Blossom Season (Late March to Early April) — Witness the stunning cherry blossoms in full bloom, especially in parks like Yangmingshan.
Autumn Foliage (Late November) — Enjoy the vibrant autumn colors as the leaves turn, creating picturesque landscapes.

Where to Stay in Taipei

Ximending [Nightlife & Shopping] — Known as Taipei's youth hub, Ximending is famous for its shopping, entertainment, and vibrant nightlife, making it ideal for younger travelers.
Taipei Main Station [Transport & Convenience] — This area is a major transport hub, connecting various train lines and bus routes, perfect for those who want easy access to the city and beyond.
Daan District [Families & Relaxation] — Daan is a residential area with beautiful parks and trendy cafes, attracting families and those seeking a more relaxed atmosphere.
Tamsui [Scenic Views & Culture] — Located along the river, Tamsui offers stunning sunsets, cultural sites, and a laid-back vibe, ideal for travelers looking to escape the city hustle.