What to visit in Taipei in 13 days?

With 13 days to explore Taipei, visitors have the opportunity to dive deep into the city’s vibrant culture, tantalizing street food, and spectacular sights. Taipei, a unique blend of traditional and modern aspects, is a bustling city surrounded by lush green landscapes. It’s home to a myriad of experiences that cater to diverse interests, whether you’re a lover of history, nature, or culinary delights. In this guide, we’ll explore some must-visit destinations and activities that will help you make the most of your 13-day journey in Taipei.

The Essential Taipei Sights & Landmark Wonders

In your extended stay in Taipei, there’s plenty of time to soak in its iconic landmarks. One cannot miss the towering Taipei 101, which dominates the skyline at 508 meters tall. The once-tallest building in the world offers breathtaking 360-degree views of Taipei from its observatory deck. The ride up in one of the fastest elevators in the world is an experience in itself, getting you from the 5th to the 89th floors in a mere 37 seconds. Post-sunset visits reward you with dazzling city lights, giving you a whole new perspective on Taipei’s landscape. Find transportation options to get there conveniently.

Another can’t-miss spot is the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a site steeped in history dedicated to Taiwan’s former leader. The imposing white structure, with its iconic blue roof, hosts the ceremonious changing of the guard hourly—a spectacle that captures the respect paid to historical significance. Around the hall, Liberty Square is beautifully designed with traditional Chinese architecture, featuring winding gardens and serene ponds.

The National Palace Museum is a treasure trove with artifacts spanning thousands of years, housing an impressive collection of nearly 700,000 pieces of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts. It’s an exquisite journey through history with masterpieces of calligraphy, ceramics, paintings, and jade.

For nature enthusiasts, the Elephant Mountain hike, although steep, rewards with panoramic views of Taipei and a unique vantage point of Taipei 101. Make sure to take the hike during late afternoon to capture the sunset views over the cityscape. As you plan to spend a significant time hiking, ensure to carry mosquito repellent and some snacks.

• 🌟 Taipei 101: Reachable via MRT Red Line, Exit 4 at Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station.
• 🏛️ Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall: MRT Red or Green Line to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Station, Exit 5.
• 🏺 National Palace Museum: MRT Red Line to Shilin Station, then Bus R30.
• 🐘 Elephant Mountain: MRT Red Line to Xiangshan Station, Exit 2.

Unraveling Taipei’s Culinary and Night Market Scene

One of Taipei’s strongest draws is its night markets, offering sensory overload with sights, sounds, and tastes. The Shilin Night Market is one of the most famous night markets where you can savor everything from bubble tea to stinky tofu and pepper meat buns. Another notable market is the Raohe Street Night Market, popular for its delicious street food and vibrant atmosphere.

For a more local experience, the Ningxia Night Market offers specialties like oyster omelets and sweet potato balls. The bustling scenes of these markets encapsulate Taipei’s street food culture, and every bite tells a story of tradition and innovation.

A food tour is highly recommended for those unsure where to begin, guiding you through delicacies and providing an deeper understanding of Taiwanese cuisine. Whether savoring xiao long bao or sampling beef noodles, Taipei’s food culture is deeply satisfying.

These markets often start bustling late in the afternoon and continue until the wee hours, perfect for nocturnal wanderers. Street food in Taipei is more than a meal—it’s a cultural ritual, as iconic to the city as the skyscrapers that share its skyline.

• 🍢 Shilin Night Market: Accessible from MRT Red Line to Jiantan Station.
• 🍙 Raohe Night Market: A short walk from Songshan Station on the MRT Green Line.
• 🥢 Ningxia Night Market: Within walking distance from Zhongshan Station on the MRT Tamsui-Xinyi and Songshan-Xindian Line.
• 🍜 Don’t miss trying the pepper pork buns at Raohe Street!

Exploring Taipei’s Natural Beauty and Serenity

Taipei may be a bustling city, but it is also enveloped in a canvas of natural beauty. The Beitou Hot Springs offer a relaxing retreat where you can soak in mineral-rich waters. With a history dating back to the Japanese occupation, the hot springs continue to be a cherished part of Taipei’s wellness culture. Be sure to visit the Beitou Hot Springs Museum, housed in a beautiful Japanese-style building, for a glimpse into the past.

Another gem is the peaceful Daan Forest Park, Taipei’s “urban green lung,” where locals enjoy picnicking, reading, or performing tai chi. The park’s serene environment makes it an ideal spot to escape the urban hustle and immerse in nature.

Maokong Gondola offers another unique experience, whisking you away to the lush tea plantations in the Maokong area. As you travel in the glass-bottom gondolas, you’ll enjoy panoramic views of Taipei before arriving at the teahouses. Savor traditional Taiwanese tea while overlooking rolling hills—an excursion that perfectly combines culture and nature.

• 🛁 Beitou Hot Springs: MRT Red Line to Beitou Station, transfer to the branch line for Xinbeitou.
• 🌿 Daan Forest Park: MRT Red Line to Daan Park Station.
• 🚠 Maokong Gondola: MRT Brown Line to Taipei Zoo Station.

The Urban and Cultural Vibe of Taipei’s Districts

In addition to its natural and culinary attractions, Taipei’s neighborhoods offer a cultural treasure trove. Ximending is Taipei’s trendiest district, often likened to Tokyo’s Harajuku, with its eclectic mix of fashion shops, street artists, and food stalls. The pedestrian-only area bustles with energy and is the perfect place to explore modern Taipei’s youth culture.

The nearby Longshan Temple stands in stark contrast, offering a glimpse of Taipei’s deep-rooted spiritual traditions. Founded in 1738, this temple offers ornate architecture and is one of the most important temples for the locals, making it a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.

If history captivates you, the Bopiliao Historical Block offers a window into Taipei’s past, with narrow streets that transport you back to the Qing Dynasty. Art lovers will enjoy the Huashan 1914 Creative Park, a hub of creativity nestled in a former winery that’s now home to art exhibitions and craft markets.

To shop for unique local products, drop by Dadaocheng to discover traditional herbal medicine shops and Taiwanese tea stores. The district’s historical architecture and cultural richness make it a delightful stop.

• 🎨 Ximending: Accessible via MRT Green or Blue Line to Ximen Station.
• 🕌 Longshan Temple: MRT Blue Line to Longshan Temple Station.
• 🏺 Bopiliao Historical Block: Next to Longshan Temple, a few minutes’ walk.
• 🖌️ Huashan 1914 Creative Park: MRT Blue Line to Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station.
• 🏮 Dadaocheng: MRT Red Line to Shuanglian Station, a short walk away.

Interactive Experiences & Discoveries Around Taipei

For an immersive experience, engage in activities that allow you to connect with Taipei beyond sightseeing. A cycling tour offers a fantastic way to see the city like a local, cruising through historical neighborhoods and parks.

To broaden your understanding of Taiwanese culture, attend a traditional tea ceremony in Maokong or catch a performance at the National Theater and Concert Hall, a cultural staple adorned with classic Chinese architectural aesthetics.

For a quirky trip, try the knife massage at a traditional spa, which uses blunt blades to relieve stress—a unique wellness experience that’s quite popular among locals. Additionally, the Taipei Astronomical Museum’s cosmic journey ride offers a space-themed adventure for those traveling with family.

Check out some high-end stay options if you’re in for some luxury.

• 🚴‍♂️ Cycling Tours: Various groups operate tours throughout the city.
• 🍵 Maokong Tea Ceremony: Accessible via Maokong Gondola.
• 🎭 National Theater: Close to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.
• 🔪 Knife Massage: Available at traditional massage parlors in Taipei City Mall.
• 🌌 Taipei Astronomical Museum: MRT Red Line to Jiannan Road Station.

FAQs About Visiting Taipei

What’s the best time of year to visit Taipei?

The best time to visit Taipei is during the spring (March-April) and fall (October-November) when the weather is mild and comfortable. Check April temperatures here.

How can I get around the city efficiently?

Getting around Taipei is easy with the MRT system, buses, and taxis. Many attractions are accessible via MRT, which is the most convenient and cost-effective mode of transport.

Are there any unique souvenirs I should bring back?

Yes, consider bringing back Taiwanese tea, pineapple cakes, and beautiful jade accessories.

Is it safe to travel solo in Taipei?

Yes, Taipei is generally safe for solo travelers. The city is well-lit, and the locals are friendly and eager to help visitors. Read more about Taipei’s safety here.

What should I pack for a trip to Taipei?

Pack comfortable walking shoes, light clothing, an umbrella for sudden rain showers, a power bank, and a travel adapter. Also, consider the seasonal weather: layer up in winter or choose breathable fabrics for summer.