Taipei's Activities

Best Activities in Taipei, Taiwan

Taipei, the vibrant capital of Taiwan, is a city where modern cityscapes, ancient temples, night markets, and mountain landscapes come together seamlessly. Whether you're looking for cultural experiences, outdoor adventures, shopping, food tours, or iconic landmarks, Taipei offers endless things to do.

1. Visit Taipei 101 – The Most Iconic Landmark in Taipei

No trip to Taipei is complete without visiting Taipei 101, once the tallest building in the world. The observatory offers panoramic city views, especially stunning at sunset.

Top Things to Do at Taipei 101:

• Ride one of the fastest elevators in the world

• Visit the 88th and 89th-floor observatory

• Explore the luxury mall and international restaurants

2. Explore Shilin Night Market – Taipei’s Best Night Market

Shilin Night Market is the largest and most famous night market in Taipei. It’s the perfect place to taste Taiwanese street food, shop for clothing and souvenirs, and enjoy arcade-style games.

Must-Try Foods:

• Taiwanese fried chicken steak

• Bubble tea

• Stinky tofu

• Oyster omelette

3. Discover Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall – A Cultural Icon

One of Taipei’s most important historical landmarks, the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall features stunning white architecture, peaceful gardens, and a large public square.

Highlights:

• Changing of the guard ceremony

• Traditional Chinese garden walkways

• National Theater and Concert Hall

4. Relax at Beitou Hot Springs – Natural Thermal Baths

Beitou is Taipei’s hot spring district, famous for its natural geothermal waters. Visitors can choose between public hot springs, private spa resorts, and sightseeing attractions.

Best Places in Beitou:

• Beitou Hot Spring Park

• Thermal Valley

• Beitou Hot Springs Museum

5. Hike Elephant Mountain – Best View of Taipei Skyline

For stunning views of Taipei 101, hike Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan), a popular but short trail perfect for sunrise or sunset.

Why Visit:

• One of the best photo spots in Taipei

• Easy trail with city panoramas

• Close to Taipei 101

6. Visit Longshan Temple – Taipei’s Most Sacred Temple

Located in Wanhua District, Longshan Temple is Taipei’s most famous religious site. Rich in history and architecture, it’s a peaceful escape from the city.

What to See:

• Ornate dragon carvings

• Lantern-lit prayer halls

• Traditional rituals and offerings

7. Take the Maokong Gondola – Scenic Cable Car Ride

The Maokong Gondola takes you over lush mountains to the peaceful tea plantations of Maokong.

Top Experiences:

• Glass-bottom “Crystal Cabins” with amazing views

• Visit Maokong Tea Houses

• Explore Zhinan Temple

8. Stroll Through Ximending – Taipei’s Trendiest District

Often compared to Tokyo’s Shibuya, Ximending is Taipei’s youth and pop culture center, filled with shops, bars, cafés, and street performances.

Best Things to Do:

• Shop for fashion and K-pop merchandise

• Explore themed cafés

• Visit the Red House cultural center

9. Explore National Palace Museum – World-Class Chinese Art

Home to one of the largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts, the National Palace Museum is a must-visit for culture and history lovers.

Highlights:

• Jade Cabbage sculpture

• Imperial porcelain collections

• Ancient calligraphy and bronze works

10. Enjoy Raohe Night Market – Authentic Taiwanese Food Experience

Smaller and more traditional than Shilin, Raohe Night Market is iconic for its street food, lively atmosphere, and local charm.

Must-Try:

• Black pepper buns

• Pork rib herbal soup

• Grilled squid

Taipei is a city that offers culture, nature, food, shopping, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you're exploring night markets, hiking scenic mountains, or visiting historical temples, Taipei provides a perfect balance of modern excitement and traditional charm.