Taipei Travel Guide | Where Prosperity and Ancient Charm Intertwine |
Taipei, a vibrant modern metropolis, a cultural ancient city rich in history. Here, you'll find the dazzling neon lights of skyscrapers and the nostalgic charm of old streets and alleys; world-class museums and ancient temples filled with the scent of incense. Whether you're a food lover, a culture explorer, or a shopaholic, Taipei has something to offer everyone.
I. Best Time to Travel
March-May: Spring offers pleasant weather, and Yangmingshan National Park is in full bloom with cherry blossoms, making it a great time for flower viewing.
September-November: Autumn boasts clear skies and crisp air, perfect for outdoor activities. It's also the best time to savor hairy crabs.
December-February: Winter temperatures are comfortable, ideal for experiencing hot springs and enjoying the festive atmosphere of the Lunar New Year.
II. Transportation
Airplane: Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) and Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) are the main aviation hubs, with flights to and from destinations worldwide.
Subway: Taipei has a well-developed subway system covering major attractions in the city, making it the most convenient way to get around.
Bus: Taipei has a dense bus network with affordable fares, but pay attention to the schedule.
Taxi: The starting fare for taxis in Taipei is 70 New Taiwan Dollars, with a 20-dollar surcharge at night.
III. Must-See Attractions
Taipei 101: Once the world's tallest building, ascend to the observation deck for panoramic views of Taipei and experience the city's prosperity and vibrancy.
National Palace Museum: Home to treasures of Chinese civilization, including the Jadeite Cabbage and the Mao Gong Ding, it's a great place to learn about Chinese culture.
National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall: Built in memory of Chiang Kai-shek, the magnificent architecture and changing of the guard ceremony are worth seeing.
Shilin Night Market: One of Taipei's most famous night markets, it offers a variety of Taiwanese snacks, such as oyster omelets, Taiwanese sausage wrapped in glutinous rice, and bubble tea.
Ximending: Taipei's trendy cultural hub, it's home to various fashion boutiques, restaurants, and entertainment venues, making it a popular spot for young people.
IV. Local Cuisine
Beef Noodle Soup: Taiwan's national dish, featuring a rich broth, tender beef, and chewy noodles.
Oyster Omelet: Made with fresh oysters, eggs, and vegetables, it offers a tender texture and delicious flavor.
Taiwanese Sausage Wrapped in Glutinous Rice: Glutinous rice sausage is sliced open and filled with Taiwanese sausage, pickled mustard greens, and other ingredients, creating a rich and unique flavor.
Bubble Tea: Taiwan's most iconic drink, with chewy tapioca pearls and fragrant milk tea, it's a perfect thirst quencher.
Pineapple Cake: A famous Taiwanese souvenir, with a crispy crust and sweet filling, it's a favorite among tourists.
V. Accommodation Recommendations
Xinyi District: Taipei's most prosperous commercial district, with a wide selection of hotels and convenient transportation, suitable for shopping and sightseeing.
Ximending: Taipei's trendy cultural hub, with relatively affordable hotels, suitable for young travelers.
Da'an District: Taipei's cultural and educational district, with a quiet environment and well-equipped hotels, suitable for family trips.
VI. Travel Tips
The Taiwan Travel Permit for Mainland Residents and the Exit & Entry Permit for Taiwan, China are essential documents for traveling to Taiwan.
The voltage in Taipei is 110 volts, and the outlets are two-pronged flat plugs, so you'll need to bring a converter.
Taipei has a highly developed public transportation system. Purchasing an EasyCard is recommended for convenient travel on the subway and bus.
The cost of living in Taipei is comparable to that of first-tier cities in mainland China. Alipay and WeChat Pay are accepted.
VII. Itinerary Recommendations
3-Day Trip:
D1: Taipei 101 - Xinyi Shopping District - Shilin Night Market
D2: National Palace Museum - National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall - Ximending
D3: Yangmingshan National Park - Beitou Hot Springs
5-Day Trip:
D1: Taipei 101 - Xinyi Shopping District - Shilin Night Market
D2: National Palace Museum - National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall - Ximending
D3: Jiufen Old Street - Shifen Waterfall - Pingxi Sky Lanterns
D4: Yangmingshan National Park - Beitou Hot Springs
D5: Tamsui Old Street - Fisherman's Wharf - Fort San Domingo
Taipei, a city full of charm, awaits your exploration. We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Taipei!