Planning to journey to Taipei Taiwan? That is my favourite nation in Asia and I come right here lots due to the distinctive meals selections! Listed below are my experiences in Taipei, together with hitchhiking throughout Taiwan. Sure, this is among the most secure international locations in Asia!
📬 Reader mail: Hey Trisha! Thanks for all of your content material about solo journey. As a girl who like to journey, your weblog serves as my bible to exit on the planet!
By the way in which, I first adopted you 10 years in the past whenever you have been doing all of your examine overseas program in Italy. A good friend handed your weblog to me and I bought immediately hooked!
I’m leaving Canada for the primary time – I don’t know in the event you heard what’s taking place right here lately however anyway…
I wish to ask for some recommendation on solo journey to Taipei Taiwan. I noticed your Instagram tales in Taiwan and it seemed such as you had plenty of enjoyable there.
I’m trying ahead to listening to extra from you. I’m actually excited for this journey and I hope you possibly can assist!
-Charlene Bronstein, Canada
Hello Charlene!
Thanks a lot for studying the weblog! You might be proper – Taipei is one in all my favourite international locations in Asia! I all the time go to right here and it’s tremendous protected. I truly made plenty of Taiwanese associates by way of Couchsurfing. I actually really feel protected to journey to Taipei Taiwan solo.
I bought tremendous excited once I acquired your mail so I bought into writing the publish instantly! I might be again in Asia this 12 months (after 4 years of dwelling in Mexico) to go to family and friends. If we’ve got the identical journey schedule, I would really like so that you can be part of me in Taipei.
If not, I hope this Taipei journey information will nonetheless provide help to plan your journey. Good luck and let me know you probably have extra questions!
Xx,
Trisha
☕ Assist this weblog’s trustworthy and clear journalism. Assist us add worth to what we’re sharing. Hold P.S. I’m On My Manner free for all by donating to our espresso fund.
🇹🇼 Taipei journey at a look
- Foreign money: The forex in Taiwan is named the brand new Taiwan greenback (NT$). US$1 = NT$30. I’ll clarify what you should buy with this quantity later however to let you know the reality, Taiwan is an reasonably priced nation to journey to!
- Energy plug: Taiwan makes use of Sort A (two flat parallel pins) and kinds B (two flat parallel pins and a grounding pin)
- Visa: People, Canadians, Australians, British, and most European residents don’t want a visa to enter Taiwan if you’re solely visiting for lower than 90 days. You’ll mechanically get 90 days upon entry to Taipei and this can’t be prolonged.
- Language: The language in Taiwan is Mandarin. Most younger individuals can communicate English together with individuals who work within the tourism business however many institutions have workers who can’t talk in English nicely. However don’t fear, you’ll go by! The Taiwanese are very heat individuals and they’re going to attempt their greatest to answer you, even when their English is incomplete.
- Transportation: Taiwan is a small nation with buses, trains, and home flights. The prepare is my favourite mode of transport (I as soon as did it from Taipei all the way in which to the south of Dulan). I’ll put all of your transportation choices within the getting round part of this text.
- Wifi/Web in Taipei: Taipei is first-world and fashionable in terms of Web velocity. You’ll by no means have to fret about Web connection when in Taipei.
- Taiwan sim card: T-Star is an efficient community supplier in Taiwan, particularly for many who are staying in Taiwan for lengthy durations of time. A 1-week limitless plan prices US$14. Chunghwa Telecom is really helpful to those that will go to distant areas of Taiwan however if you’re simply visiting Taipei, purchase T-Star upon arrival on the airport.
- Steered journey period: Truthfully, 3-5 days in Taipei is already variety of days. It is possible for you to to cowl all the very best issues to do in Taipei inside this timeframe.
Is Taipei value visiting?
ABSOLUTELY! Personally, I like to journey to Taipei repeatedly due to the meals. Taiwan has many dishes that you just received’t discover in another Asian nation.
I have to put extra emphasis on this since I like touring for meals. Afterward, I’ll share with you all of the Taipei eating places and road meals stands that I found on each journey!
In case you are not a fan of meals, there are a lot of attention-grabbing issues to do in Taipei. Keep in mind that Taipei is an enormous metropolis with wealthy and numerous cultures – no matter sort of traveler you might be, you’ll all the time discover one thing for you whenever you go to Taipei.
I do know most of my stuff on this weblog is about solo journey however if you’re touring with associates or household, this Taipei journey information can even be useful!
Is it protected to journey to Taipei Taiwan?
DEFINITELY! Taipei is among the cities on the planet with a low crime price. My mother and father let me journey to Taiwan very younger (18) and I by no means heard any dangerous information from family and friends earlier than visiting.
Due to my Asian heritage, I’m undoubtedly extra comfy being on this nation as they don’t take a look at me in another way.
My American associates who dwell in Taipei additionally don’t get plenty of consideration from being a foreigner. Taiwan is used to vacationers and international guests so you’ll take pleasure in your go to with out worrying about getting consideration.
Nonetheless, like anyplace else, be aware about your belongings as petty theft nonetheless occurs in Taiwan. I journey with plenty of digital camera gear and I by no means felt frightened about carrying them round or taking footage in public. This, I received’t do in locations like Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
You may additionally like:
✈️ Planning your trip in Taipei
Greatest time to go to Taipei Taiwan
July to August is summer time in Taiwan, which additionally marks the excessive season. Right now of the 12 months, Taipei is scorching and may attain temperatures as much as 30°C (86°F). That is the very best time to go to close by seashores like Shalun Seashore, Baishawan Seashore, Wanli, Fulong, and Wai Ao.
Anticipate the seashore areas to be crowded throughout these months as a result of Taipei is admittedly scorching in July and August. Nevertheless, the temperatures calm down within the evenings and town is extra alive at night time throughout the summer time. There are various events right here even throughout mid-week!
One of the best time to go to Taipei for me is throughout the off-season, from November to March. The climate is approach cooler and also you’ll take pleasure in strolling (or biking) round Taipei with out sweating and feeling sticky. Throughout these months, temperatures are gentle (round 13-18°C or 55-64°F).
March, April, October, and November are shoulder seasons. That is Spring time in Taipei and you’ll expertise nice climate (19°C / 66°F). Costs are additionally decrease than regular.
To have an concept about occasions, celebrations, and holidays in Taipei, I listed them beneath (month by month):
- January: Lunar New 12 months Competition, Lantern Competition, and strawberry season
- February: Lohas Cherry Blossom Competition and Pingxi Sky Lantern Competition
- March: Tour de Taiwan, Zhuzihu Calla Lily, and Hydrangea Competition
- April: City Nomad Movie Fest, Inventive Expo Taiwan, Baosheng Cultural Competition, and Treasure Hill Gentle Competition
- Could: Ki Kou Competition, Taipei Conventional Market Competition, and Xia-Hai Metropolis God Cultural Competition
- June: Worldwide Dragon Boat Championships & Competition and Taipei Movie Competition
- July: Taipei Arts Competition, Taipei Water Competition, Taipei Arts Competition, and Valentine’s Day (Chinese language calendar)
- August: Taipei Worldwide Wonderful Wine Expo, Taipei Music Tutorial Competition, and Toucheng Ghost Grappling Competitors
- September: Mid-Autumn Competition
- October: LGBTQ Delight parade and Fulong Worldwide Sand Sculpture Competition
- November: Taipei Jazz Competition
- December: Christmas celebrations and holidays
What to pack for Taipei
In case you’re visiting throughout the excessive seasons of summer time (July to August, as much as 30°C/86°F), it’s going to be scorching and humid so make certain to pack the next:
- Swimsuits, in the event you plan to go to the seashores of Taipei
- Linen pants are nice for cold summer time evenings
- Sturdy and trendy sandals which you’ll be able to put on in informal dinners and outside adventures as nicely
- Shorts!!! Numerous it. You received’t in all probability want pants whenever you go to Taipei throughout the summer time
- Deliver a hat to guard you from the scorching warmth
- Pack a foldable raincoat since it could actually nonetheless rain at first of July
November to March is cool however can get actually chilly at night time (13-18°C or 55-64°F) so make certain to convey a jacket. Winter in Taipei isn’t actually that chilly, particularly if you’re used to the cruel winters of Europe and North America.
As for the shoulder seasons of March, April, October, and November, make certain to pack Spring clothes. The individuals of Taipei are very modern so be artistic and toss some metropolis clothes in your suitcase.
Town of Taipei is paved so suitcases can simply roll (even the large ones)! There’s a locker station within the Taipei Worldwide Airport ought to it’s good to go away your suitcase whereas going across the metropolis.
Journey to Taipei from the US, Canada, Europe, and so forth
The airport that serves Taipei is Taoyuan Worldwide Airport. Fortunately, it is extremely simple to go to Taipei from North America. Nearly all main cities within the US and Canada have direct flights to Taiwan.
Under are some route strategies from the USA and Canada. The airline that operates these direct flights is Eva Air.
- Chicago: 14h 40m
- Los Angeles, CA: 13h 20m
- New York Metropolis, NY: 15h 50m
- San Francisco, CA: 12h 40m (other than Eva Air, United Airways and China Airways even have direct flights from SFO
- Seattle, WA: 12h
- Toronto, Canada: 15h by way of Air Canada
- Vancouver, Canada: 11h 40 min by way of Air Canada
From Europe, the very best route is by way of Amsterdam and London. The airline that operates this route is China Airways and proper now, the charges are lower than US$1,200.
There are not any direct flights from Madrid and you’ll have to cease in one other Asian nation like Hong Kong (by way of Cathay Pacific). Flights from Madrid to Taipei may also fly by way of Dubai (by way of Emirates). Eva Air flies from Paris to Taipei direct for 13 hours.
Australian vacationers can simply fly direct by way of Taipei however those that are flying from Adelaide has a 1.5 hours layover in Melbourne. See extra information beneath:
- Adelaide: by way of Qantas with a layover in Melbourne (12h)
- Melbourne: by way of China Airways and Qantas (9h, continuous)
- Perth: by way of Scoot or Singapore Airways with a layover in Singapore (14h)
- Sydney: by way of Qantas and China Airways (10h, continuous)
Taiwan entry necessities
Taiwan began easing border controls and entry necessities on June 15, 2022. As of in the present day, Taiwan is growing its international guests restrict to make up for the loss throughout COVID-19. In an effort to journey to Taipei Taiwan, it’s essential to have a adverse PCR take a look at legitimate for 48 hours.
Taiwan nonetheless wears masks however Asian international locations have all the time had the observe of carrying masks even earlier than COVID. Since journey entry necessities all the time change, I’ll replace this publish as quickly as I hear from the ministry of tourism of Taiwan.
🧳 A pleasant reminder: Don’t journey to Taipei Taiwan with out insurance coverage that covers COVID-19! As a digital nomad and distant employee, I solely pay US$40 for my journey insurance coverage. Take a look at SafetyWing and see what journey insurance coverage will give you the results you want!
Arrival in Taipei
Easy methods to get to Taipei middle from Taipei Worldwide Airport
The most affordable option to get to Taipei from the airport is by bus. The journey is 1 hour and the fare value is from US$3- US$6. Kuo-Kuang Bus leaves each 20 minutes whereas Citi Air Bus departs hourly. You may seek for routes and reserve your Taipei Airport bus tickets at Taiwan Bus.
The second most cost-effective possibility is by prepare and it solely takes 35 minutes. That is my most popular transportation from the airport to the middle as a result of the trains in Taipei are very comfy!
The prepare departs each 20 minutes and prices US$5 by way of Taoyuan Metro. You don’t have to purchase tickets prematurely – you should purchase them as quickly as you land.
The taxi from Taipei Airport begins at US$55 and the journey is identical period because the prepare. This mode of transport will take you door-to-door to your resort.
Lastly, you possibly can lease a automobile at Taipei Airport for US$35 per day. That is best if you wish to drive the entire nation from Taiwan. Driving in Taiwan is tremendous protected and the street structure may be very pleasant to foreigners. Some even do a motorcycle journey in the entire nation!
Taipei map: understanding the structure
Taipei has a land space of 271.8 km². Getting round Taipei is simple due to its very fashionable transportation system. There are bus and prepare traces for all neighborhoods in Taipei.
As a first-timer, I’m certain you’ll keep within the metropolis middle however simply in case, these are the neighborhoods in Taipei that it is best to learn about.
You may click on on the hyperlinks to see their actual location from the airport or vacationer attraction.
- Beitou: Taipei’s northernmost neighborhood, greatest neighborhood for outside adventures
- Dadaocheng: Taipei’s oldest neighborhood, greatest for outdated structure in Taiwan
- Da’an: inexperienced areas and massive parks
- Songshan: a industrial district and widespread with vacationers as a result of it’s near the airport. I keep right here on a regular basis and that is in all probability my most favourite in all of the Taiwan neighborhoods
- Tamsui: mountains and rivers
- Xinyi Industrial District: buying space and enterprise district in Taipei
💰 Taipei journey price
Fortunately, there are a lot of free issues to do in Taipei (will talk about that later) however for now, let’s discuss your Taipei journey price range. The forex in Taiwan is named the brand new Taiwan greenback (NT$). US$1 = NT$30.
To know this conversion, beneath are among the primary costs in USD:
- Fundamental lunchtime menu (together with a drink) within the enterprise district: US$6
- Combo meal in quick meals restaurant: US$4.50
- 1 cocktail drink in a downtown membership: US$15
- 1 beer in neighborhood pub (500ml or 1pt.): US$6
- Cappuccino in a specialty espresso store: US$5
- 1 package deal of Marlboro cigarettes: US$4
💵 Taiwan forex 101: The Taiwanese greenback notes are in 100, 500, and 1,000 NT$ (US$3 US$17, and US$32), whereas the cash are in quantities of 1, 5, 10, and 50 NT$ (US$0.003, US$0.17, and US$2).
Lodging prices
A hostel in Taipei (middle) begins at US$12 per night time for a mattress in a dorm. These are very clear (however actually small) and are the very best lodging possibility for solo vacationers. I all the time use Hostelworld when reserving my hostels in Taipei. You’ll solely pay 12% to substantiate your reservation!
There are various boutique lodges in Taipei for as little as US$35. Each Airbnb and Vrbo in Taipei are widespread lodging reserving platforms. There are greater than 300 properties in Taipei and the worth is identical as staying in a resort. Most flats in Taipei that I stayed in are small however very comfy.
Meals prices
Meals in Taipei may be very low-cost. Taipei has an enormous road meals tradition and a few of these road meals carts have Michelin stars. Though there are a lot of good eating places in Taipei, it is best to extremely deal with conventional Taiwanese road meals as a result of they’re one in all a sort – I actually haven’t seen something related on the planet!
You may undoubtedly eat in Taipei for lower than US$3 per meal. Proceed shopping on this text as a result of I might be sharing my loopy meals map in Taipei that’s categorized by space and dishes!
Tour prices
As for issues to do, count on to pay for actions beginning at US$15 (relying on the exercise/tour, in fact). The great factor is I’m going to share with you some free issues to do in Taipei on this article so hold studying since you’ll love all these actions!
If I’m not visiting Taipei on task, I often use Viator or GetYourGuide to e book actions in Taipei.
ATMs, USD alternate, and so forth
Cash alternate in Taipei
Taiwan doesn’t settle for US {dollars} so one of the best ways to alternate USD is upon arrival on the airport. Nevertheless, within the many occasions that I traveled to Taipei, I found some banks and cash alternate homes within the metropolis middle that supply higher charges. Under are the very best banks for cash alternate in Taipei:
- CTBC
- Sinopac
- Taipei Fubon Financial institution
- Taiwan Enterprise Financial institution
- Taiwan Cooperative Financial institution
All these are main banks in Taipei and yow will discover not less than one department in each neighborhood. As for cash alternate homes, please see beneath:
- Breeze: division retailer in Taipei with over 8 branches
- Pacific Sogo: this can be a division retailer however they are going to take your USD or NTD. They’ve many branches throughout Taipei
- Shin Kong Mitsukoshi: one other division retailer in Taipei with 5 branches all around the metropolis
- Taipei 101: the customer support sales space at Taipei 101 additionally accepts forex alternate. That is the most well-liked vacationer attraction in Taiwan so that you’ll in all probability go to this at one level!
ATM withdrawals
I exploit each my Financial institution of America and Sensible card when touring to Taipei. At Taiwan Cooperative Financial institution, I didn’t get charged a withdrawal charge versus different banks that can cost not less than US$4 per transaction.
Nevertheless, notice that the withdrawal charges in Taiwan will rely in your financial institution from residence. There isn’t a assure that you just received’t get charged for each ATM withdrawal.
Fubon Financial institution did cost me a 1% withdrawal charge. Consult with the listing of banks above to see what is going to work greatest along with your ATM/financial institution from residence.
Credit score/debit playing cards
Bank cards are broadly accepted in most eating places and institutions in Taiwan. Nevertheless, you continue to want money for road meals and different small-scale companies.
Probably the most accepted bank card in Taiwan is Visa and Mastercard. You should use it all over the place with no downside. I attempted to make use of my Amex card (simply to see the place it really works) and it did work in lots of institutions as nicely, however not all.
Tipping in Taipei
Tipping isn’t anticipated in Taipei however is all the time extremely appreciated. Some locals received’t actually perceive what a tip is and received’t settle for. When tipping, say “xie xie” (she she) which suggests “thanks” and they’re going to perceive that the tip is supposed for them.
🛏️ Taipei lodges and lodging
Earlier than reserving your Taipei lodges and lodging, familiarize your self with the areas first. Within the first a part of this text, I gave you a short background of all of the Taipei neighborhoods on a bigger scale.
However on a smaller scale, let’s take a look at all of the locations the place it’s accessible to vacationers. I’m certain you all wish to have an area expertise in Taipei and keep in less-touristy locations however all the time take into accounts how far you can be from the essential landmarks and excursions.
I might suggest staying in Xinyi and Zhongshan neighborhoods that are the large metropolis middle of Taipei. Shilin and Da’an areas are near all of the vacationer spots whereas Ximending is the brand new neighborhood development for popular culture.
Lodges in Beitou neighborhood are dearer than these of town as a result of Beitou has nice luxurious lodges and resorts with mountain views.
Greatest lodges in Taipei
High-rated hostels in Taipei
Please notice that the costs beneath don’t embrace personal rooms however solely a hostel mattress in a shared dorm. Hostels in Taipei often have 4, 6, 8, and 12 beds in a dorm.
🏙️ Issues to do in Taipei
Taipei should go to
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Corridor
📍 Part 3, Zhongxiao E Rd, Da’an
Chiang Kai-shek was a army chief in China throughout the Nanjing decade. This Memorial Corridor has 89 steps on the entrance, which was Chiang’s age when he died.
The courtyard of this Memorial Corridor is admittedly lovely with neoclassic type and blue-roofed halls. The Memorial Corridor is open day by day from 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM whereas the Memorial Park is open till 12 midnight.
Dihua Road
Dihua Road is a historic website positioned in Datong District. Stroll round and study Chinese language medication, purchase materials, store for Chinese language tea, and lots of extra! That is presently a hangout for younger Taiwanese individuals as cafes, eating places, vintage outlets, and artwork galleries have opened right here.
It’s best time to come back right here for the Lunar New 12 months Bazaar as you will note plenty of native life. That is Taiwan’s favourite vacation buying middle (throughout the season) so count on large crowds.
Longshan Temple
📍 No. 211, Guangzhou St, Wanhua
This Buddhist temple is Taipei’s most-visited non secular website. 6:00 AM, 8:00 AM, and 5:00 PM are worship occasions so attempt to go to at these hours to see (and take part) in chanting. They permit guests even when there are vacationers round however this place can get packed!
This temple is open from 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM daily of the week. After going across the temple, you possibly can go to the markets close by (west of the temple) equivalent to Guangzhou Night time Market and Huaxi Night time Market the place you possibly can attempt Taipei’s well-known snake soup.
🚉 Getting there suggestions: Feeling adventurous? You may take the prepare to Longshan Temple. It is only one block from Wanhua Station in Taipei. In case you’re taking the MRT, go for the blue line. The station’s title is identical because the temple.
Nationwide Palace Museum
📍 No. 221, Sec 2, Zhi Shan Rd, Shilin
See the best Chinese language artwork collections from a number of dynasties on the Nationwide Palace Museum. Right here, you’ll be taught in regards to the wealthy tradition of Taiwan and see work, ceramics, actually outdated books, and lots of different issues from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
The Nationwide Palace Museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday (closed on Mondays) from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. The doorway charge is NT$350 (US$12). Admission is free for college students (17 and beneath) and senior residents.
That is often a part of the Taipei Metropolis go to tour and you’ll e book a combo tour right here for US$52.
Taipei 101
📍 No. 45 Metropolis Corridor Rd, Xinyi
Taipei 101 is a part of the Taipei should go to points of interest as a result of it is extremely iconic to town. It’s the fifth tallest constructing on the planet (101 tales) and has nice views of town. It’s also often called the monetary middle of Taipei.
The commentary decks are on the 88th and 89th flooring. There may be an outside deck on the 91st ground that’s open when the climate permits. They may let you know if it’s doable to entry it whenever you purchase the tickets on the reception.
The primary 5 flooring are malls and buying facilities whereas the meals courtroom is positioned o the basement. For spectacular views of Taipei 101 (that’s not contained in the constructing), hike Elephant Mountain or have drinks at Zhang Males, a well-liked place for craft beers.
Taipei vacationer points of interest
Museums in Taipei
Museum-lovers, there are over 50 museums in Taipei to go to. Every museum has completely different shows, exhibitions, and galleries so that you can see throughout your go to. I received’t embrace all of the Taipei museums on this publish however listed below are the highest ones you shouldn’t skip:
- Ama Museum: a heritage home the place you possibly can study Taiwan’s consolation ladies
- Beitou Sizzling Spring Museum: a reproduction of the Shizuokaken Idouyama bathhouses in Japan
- Miniatures Museum of Taiwan: mini doll homes, palaces, chalets, castles, and so forth. That is my favourite in Taipei!
- Nationwide Human Rights Museum: a former jail/jail for political prisoners
- Nationwide 2-28 Museum: an area that commemorates the February 28 incident in Taiwan
Spiritual temples in Taipei
Buddhism got here to Taiwan throughout the Dutch colonization (1624-1663). Though the Dutch have been towards it, it continued to develop within the provinces of Taiwan. The highest Buddhist and Taoist temples to go to in Taipei are:
- Bao’an Temple: greatest temple to see conventional Chinese language artwork and efficiency arts. The people arts competition takes place right here from April to June
- Guandu Temple: Taipei’s oldest temple constructed on the aspect of the mountain
- Qingshan Temple: wooden and stone paintings, pottery, and mosaic
- Tianhou Temple: Japanese and Chinese language worship practices
- Yinshan Temple: constructed by Hakka immigrants
Historial websites in Taipei
Taiwan isn’t China and so they have its personal cultures, customs, and historical past. In an effort to perceive the evolution of Taiwan, beneath are some historic websites to go to:
- Kishuan Forest of Literature: a small lodge inbuilt 1917 the place you’ll study Taiwan’s literature
- Lin Antai Historic Home: Taipei’s oldest residential constructing that has 30 rooms
- Oxford Faculty: the primary Western College in Taipei and is the very best place to get to know the training system of Taiwan.
- Presidential Workplace Constructing: Taiwanese presidents housing since 1949
- Zhongshan Corridor: that is the place the Japanese surrendered in 1945. Chiang Kai-shek additionally made many public speeches on this corridor
Taipei Markets
Taipei has many night time markets and that is my favourite spot to have low-cost and good meals. Other than meals, these markets additionally promote souvenirs, vintage stuff, and lots of different issues you could take residence as a remembrance of your journey.
Under are the markets I all the time go to when in Taipei:
- Lao Mian Cheng Lantern Store: handmade lamps and paper lanterns
- Jianguo Weekend Vacation Jade Market: jade, pearls, copper, bonsai. Additionally they have a weekend flower market the place you’ll discover extraordinary bonsai vegetation
- Dongmen Market: a fruit and vegetable market the place locals go
- Shilin Night time Market: the biggest and hottest night time market in Taiwan
- Tonghua Night time Market: the liveliest night time market in Taipei and is an area favourite
- Yongle Market: this can be a material market, for silk, cotton, animal prints, daring colours, and so forth
- Wufenpu: road trend market the place you should buy clothes and niknaks
Taipei excursions
Taipei meals tour (strolling)
👉🏽 Test costs
You’ll go to 10 completely different road meals stalls and eating places on this Taipei meals tour. A Taiwanese native information will stroll you across the native spots the place you possibly can attempt world-renowned Taiwanese dishes that you just in all probability didn’t hear of earlier than.
This strolling meals tour extremely focuses on the busy Zhongzheng neighborhood and also you’ll additionally get to go to Dongmen Market. The consuming and strolling will final for 3 hours and begins at US$44 per individual.
Discover Taipei on a non-public automobile constitution
👉🏽 Test costs
For many who are touring in larger teams and need the consolation of a non-public automobile constitution, you possibly can rent one to your group for US$55 however the value varies per group dimension.
The automobile constitution will take you to locations that you’re solely occupied with and you’ll give the motive force your factors of curiosity to see how the day goes to work. This often lasts for 8 hours.
Be at liberty to verify the itineraries and issues to do this I’ve on this listing so you possibly can customise your personal. In any other case, you will get in contact with me and we are able to plan your Taipei itinerary collectively.
Shilin Market strolling tour
👉🏽 Test costs
In case you can solely select one market to go to in Taipei, Shilin Night time Market is the most important and most full of life market in all of Taiwan! This tour will final 2 hours and the information will take you to buying spots, specialty road meals, and memento buying.
Better of Taipei tour
👉🏽 Test costs
That is best for many who don’t wish to take into consideration arising with an itinerary to your Taipei tour. For under US$48, you’ll get a 3-hour tour of town protecting essential landmarks, markets, and every thing it’s good to see whereas within the metropolis.
Day journeys from Taipei
Taroko Nationwide Park
👉🏽 Test costs
Taroko is the biggest nationwide park in Taiwan which is 3 hours away from Taipei. It’s near Hualien so you might wish to take a look at this metropolis as nicely.
Since I visited Hualien individually, I didn’t do that day journey from Taipei. I rented a bike once I was already in Hualien as a substitute.
There are various issues to do in Taroko like climbing. The most well-liked hikes are the Shakadang path, the Yanzihkou Path (Swallow Grotto), Tianxiang Scenic Space, Cihmu Bridge, Tunnel of 9 Turns Path, Everlasting Spring Shrine, and the Chishingtan Scenic Space.
This can be a full-day journey from Taipei (12 hours approx) and begins at US$100 for an all-inclusive tour.
Jiufen, Yehliu Geopark, and Shifen
👉🏽 Test costs
Situated within the northern a part of Taiwan, the Jiufen, Yehliu, and Shifen are among the best day journeys from Taipei. In case you can solely do in the future journey to your journey to Taipei, that is the one to decide on as I really feel like that is a very powerful.
These three locations are lower than an hour from Taipei so it’s very simple to mix them as a day journey. This tour lasts for 9 hours and prices US$35 per individual.
Jinguashi, Jiufen, and Pingxi
👉🏽 Test costs
This tour begins at Jinguashi 13 Ruins which was once a gold smelter plant throughout the Japanese occupation. Then you’ll go to Shifen Outdated Road, an outdated railroad city.
On this city, there’s a custom to jot down your needs on a flying lantern and launch it afterward. They consider that sending these lanterns to the heavens will make your want come true.
Just some minutes’ stroll from Outdated Road is the spectacular Shifen Waterfall, one other most visited website in Taipei.
Hike Quixing Mountain
👉🏽 Test costs
Quixing Mountain is one in all Taiwan’s highest peaks. At the present time journey from Taiwan is greatest for many who wish to keep away from the hustle and bustle of metropolis life. This can be a comparatively reasonable hike and all ranges are welcome.
The spotlight of today journey is the views of the 7-star summit and naturally, the 2 peaks of the Quixing Mountains. The tour lasts for 8 hours and prices US$85.
🍲 Taipei Eating places
In case you’re studying this weblog for some time now, you’ll know the way a lot I like exploring meals. From my profession as a meals journalist in Hong Kong, I used to be despatched on assignments to Taipei and have found many eating places and road meals stalls that it is best to go to.
In fact, you received’t have the ability to go to all of them however beneath are my favourite Taipei eating places by class:
Greatest Taiwanese eating places
- Shuang Yue Meals: glutinous oil rice and signature rooster soup
- Wulao Xinsheng Retailer: greatest place for warm pot
- Cheng Wei Zhen: greatest noodles
- Jin Feng Braised Pork Rice: braised pork rice is a standard Taiwanese dish and this is among the greatest locations to have it!
- 22:02 Hotpot Lohas: one other nice possibility for warm pot
- Ji Xian Guo Wu: greatest shabu shabu
Hakka-style delicacies
In Chinese language, Hakka means “visitor households” and is a subgroup of individuals of Han Chinese language. They’ve their very own tradition and their delicacies may be very widespread all through Taiwan. This can be a sort of Taiwanese meals that you just shouldn’t miss!
- Bulao Hakka Conventional Mochi
- Could Snow Hakka Meals
- Blossom Restaurant
Aboriginal Delicacies
In Taipei, aboriginal delicacies means indigenous meals and they’re very distinctive! Bamboo-tube rice, roasted boar, and millet liquor are among the hottest dishes that you just received’t see in another nation in Asia.
Under is an inventory of fine locations to attempt aboriginal delicacies. As these eating places don’t have English names, I added the placement beneath:
Asian eating places in Taipei
Traditionally, Taiwan was once beneath Japanese rule so you possibly can count on many Japanese eating places which can be good if you end up in Taipei. Under are a few of my suggestions:
- Da-Wan Yakiniku: greatest Japanese bbq
- Gugugulu Sizzling Pot: greatest Korean hotpot
- Thaï.J 台北店: greatest Thai restaurant in Taipei
- PhoFun 樂越: greatest Vietnamese restaurant in Taipei
American meals in Taipei
Taipei additionally has a number of American eating places for choosy eaters who wish to style meals from residence. Under are a few of my suggestions for American meals that I’ve tried in Taipei:
- 歐華酒店-地中海牛排館: greatest steak restaurant in Taipei
- Stan and Cat: greatest American burgers in Taipei
- Gumgum Beer and Weeks: greatest American pub meals
- Smith & Wollensky: serves all kinds of American meals
- AK12: American mild snacks
- Le Blanc: greatest tremendous eating
Worldwide Delicacies
Taiwan has deeply rooted cultures in terms of meals however many individuals additionally benefit from the availability of Western cuisines like Italian, Spanish, French, and so forth. Under are my suggestions:
- Bagel Bagel Cafe Bar: English tea and low store
- Milano Pizzeria: greatest Italian pizza
- Le Ruban Pâtisserie: greatest French restaurant
- Ready Bistro: greatest Spanish restaurant
- Teotihuacán: greatest Mexican restaurant
World’s 50 Greatest Eating places listing
I’ve been following (and consuming) within the listing of the 50 World’s Greatest Eating places for each metropolis I go to. Taipei has lots of them however since this can be a tremendous eating expertise, it’s good to reserve in these Taipei eating places not less than a month earlier than your journey.
- Adachi: umaki and sushi
- Din Tai Fung: greatest xiao lengthy bao joint
- Impromptu: experimental delicacies by Paul Lee
- Le Palais: Chinese language delicacies
- Logy: Asian meals
- Mume: Taiwanese and Nordic fusion
- Uncooked: Taiwanese tremendous eating
- Shoun Ryugin: Taiwanese kaiseki
- Sushi Amamoto: greatest Japanese omakase
- Taïrroir: nature-inspired Taiwanese meals
- Yage: Cantonese meals
🍸 Taipei Nightlife
As a younger traveler, I actually beloved visiting Taipei due to its vibrant nightlife. I’ve met so many associates touring solo right here and so they all the time have this tradition of going out for drinks even on a weekday.
The bars in Taipei are hip, fashionable, and really younger. Taipei can also be a metropolis that doesn’t sleep and you’ll benefit from the nightlife higher if you recognize some locals to hang around with.
I can undoubtedly introduce you to some associates in Taipei – simply get in contact with me! Listed below are the very best bars in Taipei that I like to recommend.
Greatest craft beer in Taipei
- 58 Bar: attempt greater than 100 sorts of craft beer right here
- Crafted: greatest for tasting Taiwanese brews
- Driftwood: a tiki bar in Ximending
- Funky Contemporary Bar: positioned in Shilin Night time Market
- Zhang Males: you possibly can see views of Taipei 101 from right here
Taipei bars to take a look at
- 333: fancy resort bar designed by Ray Chen
- One other Brick: greatest Belgian bar
- Frank: upscale rooftop bar
- Prost Bar: greatest bar by the river
- SpeakEasy Bar: Irish bar in Taipei
- Woobar: positioned contained in the W resort
Greatest golf equipment in Taipei
- 1001 Nights Hookah Bar Lounge: greatest membership for dancing
- Triangle: greatest for younger individuals, all the time flocked by Taiwanese college students
- Wave Membership: all-you-can-drink bar included within the door cost
World’s 50 Greatest Bars listing
The World’s 50 Greatest doesn’t solely do the very best eating places on the planet however in addition they rank the very best bars! Listed below are the flowery bars that made it to the listing:
- Aha Saloon: greatest retro bar
- Bar Temper: greatest cocktails
- Bar Otani: Japanese speakeasy
- Closet: artistic cocktails
- Draft Land: cocktails on faucet
- Hideout: dive bar
- Indulge Experimental Bistro: tea and liqueur mixology
- Inge’s Bar: greatest terrace bar in Taipei
- R&D Cocktail Membership: custom-made cocktails
- Employees Solely Membership: members-only bar
✨ Taipei journey suggestions
Buy an EasyCard
EasyCard is one of the best ways to go round Taipei with the metro/MRT and busses. The trains in Taipei are environment friendly, clear, protected, and reasonably priced. A one-way journey with an EasyCard prices US$0.70 whereas the one-way bus fare is US$0.50.
You may avail for a day by day, weekly, or month-to-month go relying on what number of days you’ll keep in Taipei.
Lease a bicycle with YouBike
Taiwan is unquestionably a bicycle nation and their YouBike system is free for the primary half-hour! After that, you’ll have to pay US$0.17 per hour.
To make use of the YouBike, all you need to do is to register your EasyCard with an area telephone quantity, which completely means you need to get a sim card whenever you journey to Taipei Taiwan.
In case you learn the sim card part of this text, the very best cell supplier that I all the time use in Taiwan is T-star (for larger and higher protection all around the nation).
There may be baggage storage on the Taipei airport
Lodges will all the time have baggage storage however I choose to retailer my stuff on the airport to keep away from touring round buses and trains with it. Under are the places of the lockers in Taipei:
- Taoyuan Airport (Taipei Worldwide Airport): positioned in terminals 1 and a couple of and is open 24/7 (from US$7 – US$17)
- HSR station lockers: open from 5:00 AM to midnight (from US$1 for each 3 hours)
- Practice stations: all 100 prepare stations in Taipei have lockers open from 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM (from US$1 – US$2.50)
- Lalalocker: a brand new locker app in Asia the place yow will discover all storage stations close to you
Go to Taipei throughout the Lunar New 12 months
Lunar New 12 months is Taipei’s Chinese language New 12 months and is probably the most colourful occasion of the 12 months. There might be dragon parades, and events and town might be very energetic.
Right now of the 12 months, expats and foreigners who dwell in Taipei go on trip however many vacationers journey to Taipei Taiwan for this historic and once-a-year occasion.
This often begins on the finish of January (23-ish) and lasts for per week. January can also be time to go to Taipei due to the cool climate.
Get right into a volunteering program
For many who wish to keep in Taipei for an indefinite time, you possibly can apply for volunteer work in alternate for meals, lodging, and a day by day allowance.
That is greatest for solo vacationers who wish to get to know the tradition, stick with an area household, work in a local people, and so forth. I exploit Worldpackers to get alternatives like this. You should use my code PSIMONMYWAY10 for a ten% low cost for a 1-year membership.
Uber doesn’t work in Taipei
Uber used to work in Taipei till the Asian taxi app Seize purchased them. Seize operates in lots of main cities, particularly in Southeast Asia.
In Taipei, they even have the Seize Bike the place you possibly can order a bike journey. Be certain that to obtain the Seize app earlier than you land – it’ll assist you a large number throughout your journey!
Layover in Taipei: are you able to exit?
Many flights from the US, Canada, and Europe have layovers in Taipei for greater than 20 hours. As an alternative of staying within the airport, you possibly can discover town by signing up for a layover Taipei tour for under US$62.
Relying in your nationality, immigration in Taipei will can help you exit in case your citizenship/passport is visa-free to enter Taipei. Simply allow them to know that you’ve a 24-hour layover in Taipei and they’re going to stamp your passport.
✈️ Prepared to your journey to Taipei? This weblog thrives on reader questions so be happy to ask questions on Taipei journey through the use of the remark field beneath. You can too join 1-on-1 teaching with me in the event you want extra assist!
Trisha is a kind of individuals who left their comfy life to journey the world and study life. Her type is to remain in a single place she likes for 3 months (or extra) to know what it feels prefer to eat, cook dinner, communicate, and sleep in one other tradition that isn’t hers. She’d prefer to consider she’s not historically touring however she simply chooses to be elsewhere on a regular basis. In no specific order, her favourite cities on the planet are Barcelona, Buenos Aires, Hong Kong, Mexico Metropolis, and Tel Aviv.
