Taipei Travel Guide

1. Taipei 101 Observatory: Taipei 101 is Taiwan’s most iconic landmark, featuring a world-class high-speed elevator that reaches the 89th-floor observatory in 37 seconds. The 360-degree panoramic view overlooks all of Taipei, with clear days offering sights as far as the Tamsui River mouth. The nighttime light show is a romantic must-see.

2. Yangmingshan National Park: Taipei’s natural green lung, renowned for its volcanic geology, hot springs, and seasonal flower seas. Cherry blossoms in spring, hydrangeas in summer, silvergrass in autumn, and winter plums create year-round beauty. Must-visit spots include Xiaoyoukeng fumaroles and Qingtiangang Grassland, with a recommended stop at “The Top” rooftop restaurant for night views.

3. National Palace Museum: Housing nearly 700,000 Chinese artifacts, including treasures like the “Jadeite Cabbage,” “Meat-Shaped Stone,” and “Mao Gong Ding.” Exhibits rotate regularly, with a 2025 “Conservation Special Exhibition” showcasing artifact restoration up close. Stroll through Zhishan Garden to experience traditional Chinese garden aesthetics.

4. Beitou Hot Spring Area: With a century-long hot spring history, visitors can soak, explore the “Beitou Library” (one of the world’s most beautiful public libraries), and visit Geothermal Valley. Take the MRT to Xinbeitou Station, enjoy the free foot-soaking pool at Fuxing Park, and try Manlai Hot Spring Ramen.

5. Ximending Shopping District: Taipei’s trendiest hub, blending street culture, fashion stores, and the historic “Ximen Red Building.” Weekend street performances and neon-lit signs create a vibrant vibe. Snap photos at “American Street” graffiti walls and savor Ah Zong Mee Sua or Chengdu Starfruit Ice.

6. Huashan 1914 Creative Park: A hipster haven transformed from an old winery, with red-brick warehouses hosting design shops, exhibitions, and cafés. Weekend markets feature handmade crafts, and nighttime bars create a charming atmosphere. In 2025, a “Chiikawa-themed Market” will attract anime fans.

7. Maokong Gondola: Starting from Taipei Zoo Station, ride crystal cabins for stunning tea plantation and mountain views. Maokong’s endpoint offers scenic tea houses. Pair with the Zhangshu Trail for lupine flower seas or visit “Yao Yue Teahouse” at night for tea and stargazing.

8. Dadaocheng Wharf: Dihua Street’s Baroque architecture reflects Taipei’s commercial history, while Xiahai City God Temple is famed for its matchmaking deity. Enjoy sunset views at the “Dadaocheng Container Market” and summer fireworks festivals by the Tamsui River.

9. 44 South Village: Taipei’s first military dependents’ village, preserving fishbone-shaped bungalows that contrast with Taipei 101’s modernity. The weekend “Simple Market” sells creative goods, and Good Cho’s bagel shop is a must-try.

10. Taipei Children’s Amusement Park: A top family destination, with a 30 NTD ticket granting access to 13 attractions, including a Ferris wheel, pirate ship, and dinosaur-themed area. Opt for a one-day unlimited pass and visit the adjacent Taipei Astronomical Museum for its cosmic theater experience.

1. Beef Noodle Soup: Taipei’s most iconic dish, featuring a rich, fragrant broth, tender beef, and chewy handmade noodles, leaving a lasting impression. (Recommended: “Yongkang Beef Noodle” on Yongkang Street or Lin Dong Fang Beef Noodle)

2. Xiaolongbao (Soup Dumplings): Thin-skinned, juicy, and flavorful steamed buns, each bite bursting with sweet broth, a must-try Taiwanese delicacy. (Recommended: Din Tai Fung)

3. Braised Pork Rice (Lu Rou Fan): A simple yet delicious Taiwanese staple, with perfectly balanced fatty and lean braised pork over chewy white rice, drizzled with rich braising sauce. (Recommended: Jin Feng Braised Pork Rice)

4. Oyster Omelet: Fresh oysters combined with egg and sweet potato starch, fried to a crispy exterior and soft interior, served with sweet-spicy sauce for layered flavors.(Recommended: “Roundabout Oyster Omelet” at Ningxia Night Market)

5. Bubble Tea (Pearl Milk Tea): Taiwan’s globally famous drink, with chewy tapioca pearls in rich milk tea, customizable for sweetness and ice levels, a hallmark of hand-shaken beverages. (Recommended:Chun Shui Tang or Chen San Ding Brown Sugar Bubble Tea)

6. Stinky Tofu: Crispy, golden-fried exterior with a soft interior, paired with Taiwanese pickled vegetables and special sauce, its unique aroma makes it unforgettable. (Recommended: “Shiyuan Salted Crispy Chicken” at Shida Night Market)

7. Scallion Pancake: A crispy, fragrant exterior with a soft, chewy interior, sprinkled with scallions or paired with a fried egg, a simple yet tasty street food. (Recommended: “Tianjin Scallion Pancake” on Yongkang Street)

8. Pork Intestine Vermicelli: Thick, starchy vermicelli in a savory broth with tender pork intestines, garnished with cilantro and garlic paste, a heartwarming night market favorite. (Recommended: “Shilin Pork Intestine Vermicelli” at Shilin Night Market)

9. Pepper Bun: A crispy, oven-baked bun filled with juicy pork and scallions infused with peppery aroma, best enjoyed hot and fresh. (Recommended: “Fuzhou Shizu Pepper Bun” at Raohe Night Market)

10. Mango Shaved Ice: Fresh mango atop fluffy shaved ice, drizzled with condensed milk or mango sauce, a refreshing, sweet-tart summer dessert. (Recommended: Bing Zan or Smoothie House on Yongkang Street)

1. Pineapple Cake

Taiwan’s classic souvenir, featuring a crispy, buttery crust filled with tangy-sweet pineapple jam, blending traditional and modern flavors. Elegantly packaged, perfect for gifting.

• Address: “Chia Te Bakery” or “SunnyHills” in Taipei City

2. Nougat

Rich milky flavor with a soft, chewy texture, enhanced by almonds or peanuts for extra crunch, sweet but not cloying, suitable for all ages. Retro packaging, easy to carry.

• Address: “Sugar & Spice” or “I-Mei Foods” in Taipei City

3. Sun Cake

A Taichung specialty popular in Taipei, with a flaky, crisp crust encasing sweet maltose filling, melting in the mouth with a nostalgic taste.

• Address: “Lee Ting Hsiang Pastry Shop” in Taipei City

4. Mochi

Soft, chewy glutinous rice skin wrapped around peanut, red bean, or sesame fillings, with a delicate texture, representing traditional Taiwanese dessert. Exquisitely packaged, great for sharing.

• Address: “Jiufen Taro Ball” or “Chen Ji Mochi” in Taipei City

5. Tieguanyin Tea

A signature Taiwanese high-mountain tea, with a clear, fragrant infusion and distinctive orchid aroma, ideal for tea enthusiasts. Elegantly packaged, showcasing Taiwan’s tea culture.

• Address: “Lin Hua Tai Tea Co.” in Taipei City

6. Braised Snacks

Select braised tofu, duck tongue, or beef jerky, with rich, savory flavors and varied textures. Vacuum-packed for convenience, perfect as a snack or with drinks.

• Address: “Chou’s Shrimp Rolls” or “Yongxing Foods” on Dihua Street, Taipei City

7. Dried Mango

Made from Taiwan’s Irwin mangoes, preserving their fruity aroma and sweet-tart flavor, with a soft, chewy texture. A healthy, delicious snack in lightweight packaging, ideal for gifting.

• Address: “Yizhi Xuan” or “I-Mei Foods” in Taipei City

8. Handmade Cookies

Delicate cookies in various flavors like butter, chocolate, or fruit, crispy and delicious, with cute packaging popular among younger crowds.

• Address: “Tokyo An” or “ISABELLE” in Taipei City

9. XO Sauce

A Taiwanese specialty sauce made from dried scallops, shrimp, and other seafood, offering a rich, spicy flavor, perfect for enhancing various dishes and practical for gifting.

• Address: “Shin Yeh Table” or “Old Burn” in Taipei City

10. Taro Pastry

A crispy crust filled with fragrant taro paste, sweet but not overwhelming, with a rich taro aroma. Beautifully packaged, showcasing Taiwan’s local charm.

• Address: “Jiufen Old Street” or “Shun Cheng Egg Yolk Pastry” in Taipei City

Spring (March to May):

Temperatures range from about 18-26°C, cooler in March (15-22°C) and warmer in May (20-28°C). The weather is mild and comfortable with fresh air and occasional spring showers (monthly rainfall around 150-200mm). Late March to early April sees vibrant cherry blossoms in Yangmingshan, brimming with spring charm.

• Suggestions: Visit Yangmingshan, Tamsui, or Maokong for cherry blossoms and spring scenery, and join the Yangmingshan Flower Festival. Wear a light jacket and sweater, and carry a foldable umbrella for showers.

Summer (June to August):

Temperatures range from about 26-34°C, with August being the hottest (potentially exceeding 36°C). June brings the rainy season with humid conditions (monthly rainfall around 250-300mm), while July and August are hot and muggy with strong sunlight and occasional typhoon impacts.

• Suggestions: Explore indoor attractions like Taipei 101 Observatory or the National Palace Museum, and visit Ximending or Raohe Night Market at night. Wear short sleeves, shorts, sunscreen, a hat, and rain gear. Enjoy the Taipei Film Festival or summer music events for a lively atmosphere.

Autumn (September to November):

Temperatures range from about 20-30°C, warmer in September (24-32°C) and cooler in November (18-24°C). The weather is pleasantly cool with reduced rainfall (monthly rainfall around 100-150mm), making it the best season for travel.

• Suggestions: Visit Yangmingshan, Wulai, or Beitou for maple leaves and natural scenery. Wear long-sleeve shirts with a light jacket, adding a thicker jacket for November evenings. Attend the Taipei International Travel Expo or autumn night market food events, and explore Shilin Night Market or Taipei 101 areas at night.

Winter (December to February):

Temperatures range from about 12-20°C, with January being the coldest (10-18°C). The weather is cool and damp with less rain (monthly rainfall around 80-120mm) and occasional cold fronts. December dazzles with Christmas lights, and January is filled with New Year festivities.

• Suggestions: Soak in Beitou Hot Springs or visit the Xinyi District Christmas Market. Wear a down jacket, scarf, and hat, switching to lighter clothing indoors where heating is ample. Join Taipei’s New Year celebrations or the Mengjia Qingshan Temple procession, and savor hot pot or ginger duck for winter warmth.