Taipei is a vibrant city that offers a mix of traditional and modern culture. It has something for everyone – from historic landmarks to trendy cafes and night markets. If you’re planning a trip to Taipei, we’ve got you covered with our 3-day travel guide. This guide will highlight the most important places to see, routes to take, where to sleep, where to eat, and even free tours to join. Let’s get started!
Travel Tips in Taipei
- Get an EasyCard – This card can be used to pay for public transportation, and it also offers discounts at some attractions and shops.
- Download Google Maps – This app is very helpful for navigating the city and finding nearby attractions.
- Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases – This will make it easier to communicate with locals.
- Try the street food – Taipei is known for its delicious street food, so don’t be afraid to try new things.
- Be aware of the weather – Taipei can get very hot and humid in the summer, so dress accordingly.
What to See in Taipei
If you only have 3 days in Taipei, you’ll want to make the most of your time. Here are some of the most important places to see:
- Taipei 101 – This iconic skyscraper offers breathtaking views of the city. Make sure to visit the observation deck on the 89th floor.
- Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall – This landmark honors the former president of Taiwan, Chiang Kai-shek. The complex includes a large square, a museum, and the main hall, which houses a statue of Chiang Kai-shek.
- Longshan Temple – This historic temple is one of the oldest and most famous in Taipei. It is dedicated to various deities and is known for its intricate carvings and decorations.
- National Palace Museum – This museum houses over 700,000 artifacts from China’s imperial past. Some of the most famous pieces include the Jadeite Cabbage and the Meat-shaped Stone.
- Taipei Zoo – This zoo is one of the largest in Asia and is home to over 400 species of animals. The most famous residents are the giant pandas, Tuan Tuan and Yuan Yuan.
- Ximending – This trendy district is known for its shopping, street food, and entertainment. It’s a great place to experience the local culture and nightlife.
Routes in Taipei
To make the most of your time in Taipei, we recommend following these routes:
Day 1 – Taipei 101 and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
- Start your day at Taipei 101 and visit the observation deck on the 89th floor.
- Take the MRT to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and explore the complex, including the museum and the main hall.
- End your day by taking a walk in the nearby 228 Peace Memorial Park.
Day 2 – Longshan Temple and National Palace Museum
- Start your day at Longshan Temple and marvel at the intricate carvings and decorations.
- Take the MRT to the National Palace Museum and spend a few hours exploring the vast collection of artifacts.
- End your day by taking a stroll in the nearby Beitou Hot Springs Park and soaking in the hot springs.
Day 3 – Taipei Zoo and Ximending
- Start your day at Taipei Zoo and visit the giant pandas, Tuan Tuan and Yuan Yuan.
- Take the MRT to Ximending and spend the afternoon shopping, trying street food, and experiencing the local culture.
- End your day by taking a walk in the nearby Huashan 1914 Creative Park, which is known for its art exhibitions and cultural events.
Where to Sleep in Taipei
There are plenty of options for accommodations in Taipei, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some recommendations:
- Budget – Hostel B – This hostel is located in the heart of Ximending and offers affordable dormitory-style rooms.
- Mid-range – Dandy Hotel Daan Park Branch – This hotel is located near Daan Park and offers comfortable rooms and a rooftop garden.
- Luxury – W Taipei – This hotel is located in the Xinyi District and offers luxurious rooms with stunning views of Taipei 101.
Where to Eat in Taipei
Taipei is known for its delicious street food, but there are also plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Here are some recommendations:
- Din Tai Fung – This restaurant is famous for its xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) and has locations all over Taipei.
- Shilin Night Market – This night market is one of the largest and most famous in Taipei and offers a variety of street food options.
- Modern Toilet – This quirky restaurant serves food in toilet-themed dishes and has become a popular tourist destination.
- Eslite Spectrum – This bookstore and cafe chain offers a cozy atmosphere and a variety of food and drink options.
Free Tours in Taipei
If you’re on a budget or just want to learn more about Taipei’s culture and history, there are several free tours available:
- Taipei Free Walking Tour – This tour takes you to some of Taipei’s most famous landmarks, including Longshan Temple and Ximending.
- Taipei City Hall Tour – This tour takes you inside Taipei City Hall and offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the city is run.
- Old Town Taipei Tour – This tour takes you to some of Taipei’s oldest and most historic neighborhoods, including Dadaocheng and Ximending.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Taipei?
The best time to visit Taipei is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November), when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller.
Is Taipei a safe city?
Yes, Taipei is a relatively safe city. However, as with any big city, it’s important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid pickpocketing and other petty crimes.
What is the currency in Taipei?
The currency in Taipei is the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD).
What language is spoken in Taipei?
The official language of Taipei is Mandarin Chinese, but many people also speak English.
Taipei is a fascinating city that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, food, or just exploring new places, Taipei is a must-visit destination. With this 3-day travel guide, you’ll be able to see the most important places, try the best food, and even join free tours. Don’t forget to visit the official tourism website of the city of Taipei for more information and resources: https://eng.taiwan.net.tw/.
