Welcome, wanderer, to a city that hums with an irresistible energy, Taipei. This is a place where ancient temples stand in quiet reverence beside neon-lit skyscrapers, where the aroma of street food fills the air, and where the past and future live in beautiful harmony. Forget what you think you know about cities; Taipei is a living, breathing testament to culture, innovation, and an unwavering spirit of warmth. Beyond the main attractions, this guide invites you to discover the heart and soul of Taipei and all the best things to do in Taipei.
Top 15 Best Things to Do in Taipei (2026)
1. Climb to the Sky at Taipei 101
Taipei 101 isn’t just a tall building; it’s a symbol of the city. You can take a super-quick elevator ride up to the observation deck. From there, you’ll see the whole city spread out beneath you. The city looks incredible from up here, like a detailed map with so much going on. Make sure you see the big, swaying ball inside! It’s an incredible piece of engineering that helps the tower stay steady even when the earth shakes.
2. Hike Elephant Mountain for the Perfect Postcard View
Want that iconic Taipei photo? Climb Elephant Mountain! It’s a bit of a workout – lots of steps – but the view from the top is incredible. You’ll see Taipei 101 towering over the city in a breathtaking panorama. Try going at sunset. As the sun goes down, the city lights start to shimmer, making the scene truly magical.
3. Dive into the Sensory Feast of a Night Market
Taipei’s night markets are more than just food stalls; they’re the heart of the city’s energy. You can wander through the lively Shilin Night Market or experience the more authentic Raohe Night Market. Try small portions of different foods like crunchy fried chicken, tasty oyster omelets, and even the city’s well-known stinky tofu – if you’re brave enough! It’s an amazing experience that delights all your senses with delicious tastes, lively sounds, and a vibrant street atmosphere.
4. Find Serenity at Lungshan Temple
Leave the city behind and find peace at Lungshan Temple. This old temple is a wonderful example of classic Taiwanese design, full of detailed decorations and the sweet smell of burning incense. You can observe people praying and give a small gift to show your respect. You can go there to find peace and understand the beliefs of the community.
5. Get Lost in the Past at the National Palace Museum
Step back in time at the National Palace Museum! This museum is like a giant box filled with incredible things that emperors and empresses used and cherished. You’ll see one of the world’s biggest collections of amazing Chinese art and historical objects. From the delicate Jadeite Cabbage to ancient writings and beautiful pottery, there’s so much to discover. This is a place where you can see beautiful, historical objects and a great example of the many amazing things to do in Taipei.
6. Stroll the Chic Streets of the French Concession
Want to feel like you’re in Europe without leaving the city? Take a walk through the old French Concession. It’s a beautiful area with tree-lined roads that mixes classic beauty with a modern vibe. You’ll find lovely coffee shops, unique stores, and trendy restaurants. It’s a good place to get coffee and just hang out.
7. Experience the Quirky Spirit of Ximending
Imagine Taipei’s own version of Harajuku – that’s Ximending! It’s a lively, youthful place buzzing with pop culture. Think pedestrian streets overflowing with fashionable shops, unique finds, movie theaters, and entertaining street artists. And right in the heart of it all, you’ll discover the Red House, a historical theater that adds a special touch to this fun, modern scene.
8. Take a Journey to the Maokong Tea Plantations
Escape the city bustle and discover tranquility in Maokong’s tea fields. Take a delightful ride on the Maokong Gondola, floating above verdant tea farms to reach the village nestled on the mountain. In Maokong, savor the taste of regional tea in a charming teahouse, all while gazing upon stunning panoramic views of the city stretching out beneath you. This serene and lovely getaway offers a refreshing change of pace.
9. Discover History at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
Step into history at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall! This majestic white building honors a past leader of Taiwan. The large open area surrounding it, with the National Theater and National Concert Hall on either side, showcases Taiwan’s modern design. Try to plan your trip to witness the changing of the guard; it’s a captivating and perfectly executed show of military precision. It’s truly one of the most memorable things to do in Taipei.
10. Huashan 1914 Creative Park
Once a wine factory, now a haven for artists and creators. Imagine wandering through lovely old buildings, transformed into unique shops, art spaces, and cozy cafes. It’s a wonderful spot to discover unusual presents, see inspiring artwork, or just relax and soak in the blend of history and fresh ideas.
11. Go on a Culinary Adventure in Yongkang Street
Yongkang Street is a total treat for anyone who loves food! It’s well-known for its amazing places to eat. You can even find the very first Din Tai Fung restaurant there, the one that made soup dumplings (xiao long bao) so popular. But it’s not just about dumplings! Walk around and you’ll discover tons of little restaurants. They have tasty beef noodle soup, refreshing shaved ice for dessert, and even special, fancy coffee. It’s a delicious adventure waiting to happen.
12. Relax and Recharge at Beitou Hot Springs
Escape to Beitou Hot Springs for relaxation and renewal. A quick train ride will take you to this green and naturally heated area. Indulge in the soothing waters of the hot springs, available to everyone or in a more private setting. These waters are believed to offer therapeutic benefits. The steam and unique smell are like a spa, helping you relax after a long day of sightseeing.
13. Stroll Through the Historic Dihua Street
Imagine wandering down Taipei’s Dihua Street, a place where time seems to slow down. This is the city’s most ancient business area, a living museum filled with shops selling age-old remedies, flavorful dried foods, fragrant teas, and colorful textiles. While it truly shines during the Lunar New Year market, Dihua Street’s historic allure is captivating no matter when you visit.
14. Discover Architectural Wonder at the Taipei Fine Arts Museum
Nestled within a serene park, the Taipei Fine Arts Museum is a stunning example of simple, elegant design. Its sleek structure and bright, spacious interior offer an ideal setting for viewing a remarkable array of current and recent art, with a special emphasis on artists from Taiwan. This museum provides a calming and uplifting experience for anyone who appreciates art. It is a wonderful example of the diverse things to do in Taipei.
15. Witness a Modern Temple at Dalongdong Baoan Temple
Just a short distance from the Confucius Temple, you can find the Dalongdong Baoan Temple, a beautiful example of traditional craftsmanship. Imagine intricate carvings and bright, lively paintings covering the roof and walls, each one whispering tales from Taiwanese legends. Unlike the bustling Lungshan Temple, here you’ll find a quieter, more personal space to appreciate this beautiful and historically important place.
“Okay, so a couple of places I might suggest skipping if you’re visiting.
- First, there’s this “Toilet Restaurant” called Modern Toilet. It’s a quirky idea, but honestly, the novelty fades fast. The food is just okay, and the whole theme is more goofy than truly interesting. When you’re in a city with so many amazing foods to try, it feels like a waste of a meal. There are tons of other restaurants that offer genuinely great and memorable dining experiences.
- Another place I wouldn’t necessarily prioritize is the Taipei Zoo. Unless you have young kids who are really excited about seeing the animals, it can be a bit underwhelming. The zoo can be hard to navigate, it’s usually packed, and the animal enclosures aren’t as impressive as what you’d find in other big-city zoos. Instead, I’d recommend spending your time exploring one of Taipei’s beautiful natural parks, like Yangmingshan. You’ll get a much better sense of Taiwan’s natural beauty there!”
Taipei is clearly a city where history, culture, and modern progress come together in a special way. There are countless things to do in Taipei and something for every taste, from the serene beauty of its temples to the bustling energy of its night markets and the breathtaking sights from Taipei 101.
Taipei isn’t just a city with places to see; it’s a chance to experience a new way of life. Exploring a new city is a lot like trying new foods, meeting welcoming people, and finding interesting stories everywhere you look. So, are you ready to start your own Taipei adventure?
