Looking for the perfect Taipei itinerary? This 3-day Taipei guide covers everything you need to make the most of your time in the city, from must-see sights to hidden local gems, great food stops, and essential travel tips.
Taipei is one of Asia’s most underrated cities, a mix of flavorful street food, peaceful temples, buzzing night markets, creative neighborhoods, and some of the friendliest people we’ve met on our travels. We didn’t initially plan on visiting Taipei; it was simply a convenient stopover on our way to another destination. But after spending a week there, we were genuinely blown away by how much the city has to offer. We ended up loving it more than we ever expected.
That’s why I’ve put together this detailed 3-day Taipei itinerary, perfect for first-time visitors who want to make the most of their time in the city. Whether you’re planning a long layover or a short city break, this Taipei guide highlights the best of what to see, do, and eat without feeling rushed. From famous sights like Taipei 101 to hidden local finds, it’s all based on our personal experience exploring the city.
You’ll find cultural landmarks, vibrant street scenes, some seriously photogenic corners, and, of course, tons of delicious food stops along the way. I’ve also included tips on how to get around, where to stay, and how to extend your trip if you have a fourth day. So if you’re wondering how to spend 3 days in Taipei, this guide has you covered. Let’s dive in and plan your perfect Taipei itinerary!
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Essential travel tips for your Taipei itinerary
Before diving into the full 3-day Taipei itinerary, here are a few practical tips to help you make the most of your time in the city. From getting around to staying connected, this will make your trip a whole lot smoother.
Stay Connected during your Taipei itinerary
If you plan on using Google Maps or looking up places on the go for your Taipei itinerary, staying connected is a must. We recommend picking up a Taiwan prepaid SIM card or getting an eSIM via Airalo, super convenient and easy to set up before you even land. Use promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off any eSIM (for new Airalo users only). Use AIRALOESIM10 for 10% off as an existing user.
Transport: EasyCard & Fun Pass
The easiest way to get around Taipei is with a prepaid contactless EasyCard. It works on the MRT, buses, all TRA trains, and even at convenience stores for small payments.
If you’re planning to visit a lot of attractions and ride the MRT and buses often, consider getting the Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass. It gives you access to 25 popular attractions and includes unlimited rides on public transport in Taipei and New Taipei City.
Navigation
Make sure to download Google Maps and Google Translate before your trip. You’ll be using them constantly, for checking bus/train routes, walking directions, and even translating menus or signs.
Getting from the Airport
Getting from Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) to the city center is very straightforward. Just hop on the Airport MRT, which is fast, clean, and budget-friendly. Make sure you board the express train, not the commuter one. It usually takes about 1 to 1.5 hours to reach downtown Taipei, depending on your final stop.
Weather & What to Pack for Taipei
The weather in Taipei can be unpredictable. If you’re visiting between May and November, which is typhoon season, be sure to bring a lightweight travel umbrella and stay flexible with your plans. A sunny morning can turn into a rainy afternoon pretty fast!
Also, pack comfortable walking shoes, you’ll be doing a lot of walking across different districts and markets.
Don’t forget to carry some cash, as not every place accepts credit cards or even EasyCard payments, especially at night markets and smaller food stalls.
Dining & Opening Hours
Restaurants in Taipei tend to close fairly early, often between 8 and 10 PM, and many take a break between 2 PM and 5 PM.
Night markets usually start around 5 PM, so plan your dinner accordingly.
Also note: Mondays are common closing days for museums, cafes, and many smaller shops across Taiwan.
How many days do you need in Taipei?
So, is 3 days in Taipei actually enough? The short answer, not really. We spent a whole week here and still felt like we’d only scratched the surface. But if you’re short on time, a 3-day Taipei itinerary is a great way to get a feel for the city. It will allow you to experience a mix of Taipei’s culture, food, history, and neighborhoods.
This 3-day Taipei itinerary focuses on exploring the inner city, with all the highlights plus a few lesser-known spots. If you have a fourth day, we also share ideas for day trips that are easy to do from Taipei.
Compared to cities like Bangkok or Tokyo, Taipei might feel more compact, but don’t let that fool you. There’s so much variety packed into its neighborhoods, from night markets and creative parks to temples and tea houses. And with its efficient public transport system, it’s easy to get around and even venture into nature just outside the city.
If you’re still unsure how long to stay, we suggest looking at what interests you most in this itinerary; it’ll give you a much better idea of how much time you’ll want to spend.
Where to Stay in Taipei?
★ BUDGET
We Come Hostel
- Features a library, a terrace, and a cozy shared lounge
- Located just a few steps away from Dihua Street & the MRT Green line
- Dormitory & Double Rooms $
★★ MID-RANGE
Hotel Resonance Taipei
- Guests can enjoy a fitness center, a coffee shop & additional services
- Located close to Taipei Main Station & right at the MRT Blue line
- Twin & King Rooms $$
★★★ LUXURY
Kimpton Da An Taipei
- There is a restaurant, fitness room, & bicycle rental on site
- Located close to Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall & MRT Blue & Brown Line
- Twin & King Rooms $$$
Overview 3-day Taipei itinerary
To help you move around efficiently, we’ve grouped sights by area so you won’t have to zigzag all over the city. You don’t have to follow this order exactly, just use it as a guide to structure your trip. The Taipei itinerary covers must-sees, some personal favorites, and a few off-the-beaten-path finds.
Since there’s already so much to do within the city itself, this guide focuses mostly on Taipei city proper. For day trips outside the city, scroll down to the section on Recommended Trips from Taipei, especially if you’re staying 4 days or more.
Here’s a quick look at what’s covered each day:
Day 1
Traditional Taiwanese breakfast, 228 Peace Memorial Park, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Coffee stop at Rongjin Gorgeous Time, Lunch at Yongkang Street, Huashan 1914 Creative Park, Songshan Ciyou Temple, Raohe Street Night Market
Day 2
Breakfast, National Palace Museum, Lunch at Huaxi Street Market, Bangka Longshan Temple, Bopiliao Historical Block, Dihua Street, Ximending Walking District, Xiao Long Bao dinner, Ximending Night Market
Day 3
Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall , Taipei 101 Observatory, Food court lunch and shopping, Explore the Xinyi area, Elephant Mountain Hike, Local dinner
Day 4 (optional)
If you’re staying longer, we highly recommend using Day 4 to take a short trip outside the city. From coastal villages to hot springs and tea plantations, Taipei has some incredible escapes just a train ride away. See the “Recommended Trips” section for all the details.
Join a Morning Cycling City Tour Through Taipei
Looking for a fun and relaxed way to explore Taipei like a local? This small-group morning cycling tour is a great way to kick off your trip. You’ll begin with a classic Taiwanese breakfast (because every good day in Taipei starts with food), then hop on a bike and pedal through some of the city’s most historic neighborhoods.
Along the way, you’ll pass traditional temples, local markets, hidden alleyways, and charming old streets you’d likely miss on your own. The guide shares plenty of insights about Taipei’s history, architecture, and daily life—perfect if you want to get your bearings and learn more than a guidebook ever tells you.
It’s a laid-back ride and suitable for all levels. Since the group is capped at 9 people, it feels personal and easy to ask questions or get tips for the rest of your stay.
Taipei Itinerary – Day 1: Where Old Meets New
Morning – Traditional Taiwanese Breakfast
There’s no better way to start your Taipei itinerary than with a proper Taiwanese breakfast. It’s satisfying, delicious, and gives you a first taste of how serious Taiwan is about food.
The best breakfasts are served at traditional hole-in-the-wall spots, especially around Ximending. If you’re staying there, you’re in luck—this neighborhood is full of options. It’s also a great place to base yourself as a first-timer. Super well-connected by MRT, and packed with food, nightlife, and shopping.
Some of the top local breakfast items to look out for:
- Danbing (蛋餅): Egg pancake rolls with a slightly chewy, crispy texture.
- Shao Bing (燒餅): Sesame-coated flatbreads often stuffed with fried egg or savory fillings.
- Scallion Pancakes (蔥油餅): Crispy and flaky, usually folded with fillings like beef, ham, or egg.
- Fan Tuan (飯糰): Sticky rice rolls packed with meat floss, pickled veggies, and crunchy bits.
- Baozi (包子): Steamed buns with everything from juicy pork to sweet red bean paste.
- Youtiao (油条): Lightly salted fried dough sticks, best dunked into soy milk.
- Dou Jiang (豆漿): Fresh soy milk—sweet or savory. Try both to get the full experience.
Not sure where to go? These were a few local favorites near Ximending:
📍 麥而美 (Google Maps Location Here) – Ximending area, Wanhua District
📍瑞麟美而美 萬華昆明店 (Google Maps Location Here) – Ximending area, Wanhua District
📍Yong He Soy Milk (Google Maps Location Here) – Wanhua District, probably one of the most well-known breakfast places
Walk to 228 Peace Memorial Park
Instead of jumping on the MRT right after breakfast, take a slow walk toward your first major stop. The route takes you past sights like the Presidential Office Building and gives you a better feel for the city. Before heading to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, make a short stop at 228 Peace Memorial Park.
Originally built in 1908 under Japanese rule, the park was renamed in 1996 to commemorate the victims of the February 28 Incident. Despite its heavy past, today it feels calm and reflective, with peaceful ponds, shaded walkways, and locals practicing tai chi under the trees. Don’t miss the striking 228 Memorial Pagoda, painted with red columns and traditional Chinese architecture—it’s a beautiful photo spot too.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
Continue walking toward Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, one of Taipei’s most iconic landmarks and a must on any 3-day Taipei itinerary.
The grand white structure, topped with a blue octagonal roof, sits in Liberty Square surrounded by landscaped gardens and koi ponds. Inside the main hall, you’ll find a massive bronze statue of Chiang Kai-shek, guarded by soldiers in traditional uniforms. If you arrive on the hour between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m., you can watch the ceremonial changing of the guards.
Midday Stop: Rongjin Gorgeous Time
After exploring the memorial, head about 10 minutes east to Rongjin Gorgeous Time, a beautifully designed area that feels like a secret spot in the city. Set on the grounds of a former prison from the Japanese colonial era, it’s now a mini village of wooden buildings filled with cafés, dessert shops, and souvenir stores.
Come spring, this place is bursting with blossoms and seriously gives off Kyoto vibes. You might even spot people in rented kimonos doing full-on photoshoots in front of the historic architecture. The shops and eateries change often, but expect lots of Japanese-style places—gyoza, tea, and more.
Lunch: Yongkang Street Food Crawl
By this time, we are well after lunch, so walk further from Rongjin Gorgeous time to Yongkang Street. This was one of our favorite areas, and it’s one of the best food streets in Taipei City, so it’s a must-visit for foodies. This street is packed with local eateries, bubble tea shops, and small boutiques selling handmade goods. It’s a great spot to wander, snack, and soak up the energy. Be sure to save some room, as we will be diving into more street food in the evening!
- Tian Jin Onion Pancake (蔥抓餅): super crispy and savory pancakes with optional egg or cheese. Expect a line, but it moves quickly.
- Yongkang Beef Noodles: a legendary spot for Taiwan’s famous beef noodle soup.
- Mata Tofu Pudding: for something sweet, try this light tofu dessert with chewy toppings like tapioca pearls and taro balls.
Afternoon: Huashan 1914 Creative Park
Next, hop on the MRT from Dongmen Station, take the yellow line, and get off at Zhongxiao Xinsheng (Exit 1). You’ll arrive at Huashan 1914 Creative Park, one of Taipei’s top cultural hangouts. Once a Japanese sake factory, this red-brick warehouse complex is now a cultural hub filled with art galleries, indie shops, cafés, and weekend markets. On Saturdays and Sundays, it’s buzzing with energy, locals browsing pop-ups, sipping craft beer, or catching live performances.
Even the surroundings are interesting. Just across the street is a skatepark under a bridge, where some walls are covered in old circuit boards; a subtle nod to Taiwan’s place in the tech world. Nearby, Guanghua Digital Plaza is packed with gadgets, souvenirs, and tech everything.
Hidden Gem: Taiwan Literature Base
This next stop we actually found by coincidence. Take a quick detour to a nearby spot many travelers miss: Taiwan Literature Base. Tucked in a quiet corner, this serene cluster of Japanese-era houses once served as dormitories during the Japanese occupation. Today, it’s a peaceful complex featuring the National Museum of Taiwan Literature, art exhibitions, reading spaces, and an on-site teahouse. Volunteers often share insights about the architecture and history, and entry is free. It’s a perfect spot to pause, reflect, and enjoy a slower moment in the city.
Evening: Raohe Street Night Market
What better way to end your first day in Taipei than with a night market feast? If you really want to soak up the city’s energy and flavors, you’ve got to include at least one night market on your Taipei itinerary. Our pick? Raohe Street Night Market—a classic, open-air market full of food, lights, and local atmosphere.
Getting there from Huashan Creative Park is easy. You can hop on the blue MRT line and get off at Houshanpi Station, then walk the rest of the way. Or, take the yellow line one stop to Songjiang Nanjing, switch to the green line, and ride it all the way to the end at Songshan Station.
Raohe is one of the best spots to try all the classic Taiwanese street foods. You’ll find bubble tea, popcorn chicken, grilled squid, skewered meats, oyster omelets, stinky tofu, and sweets like tanghulu (candied fruit on sticks). But our favorite was the popular Fuzhou black pepper pork buns baked in traditional clay ovens right at the market entrance. You’ll probably see the line before you see the stall—but they’re totally worth the wait. Crispy on the bottom, juicy and peppery inside.
Pass by Songshan Ciyou Temple
Right by the entrance to the market, you’ll spot Songshan Ciyou Temple. We didn’t spend a long time here, but it’s absolutely worth a quick stop. The roof is covered in colorful Taoist and Buddhist figures, plus dragons and phoenixes curling across the edges. Inside, you’ll find intricate carvings, gold details, and—during our visit—lanterns still hanging from Chinese New Year. It felt peaceful, photogenic, and just the right touch of culture before diving into the chaos of the market.
Taipei Itinerary – Day 2: Exploring Taipei’s Oldest Neighborhood
Breakfast: Start local in Wanhua
Start your second morning like a local, with another Taiwanese breakfast. If you’re staying near the Ximending area in Wanhua District, head to 瑞麟美而美 萬華昆明店 (Google Maps Location Here). It’s a small neighborhood shop that was already packed with commuters when we arrived. Orders were flying out so fast, it was hard to keep up. We went for the breakfast set platter, which includes a drink. Highly recommend trying the black soy milk tea—slightly sweet, nutty, and super addictive.
Morning: National Palace Museum
After breakfast, it’s time for one of Taipei’s cultural highlights, the National Palace Museum. From Ximending, hop on the red MRT line to Shilin Station, then take bus R30 for a scenic ride into the green hills on the city’s edge.
This is one of the world’s greatest collections of Chinese art, home to nearly 700,000 pieces spanning 8,000 years of history. Many of the most precious treasures were moved from Beijing’s Forbidden City during the Chinese Civil War, making this museum a historic powerhouse.
Inside, you’ll find jade carvings, religious statues, imperial furniture, Ming-dynasty ceramics, and even tiny ivory sculptures so detailed they’re hard to believe. Make sure to see the museum’s most famous pieces: the lifelike Jadeite Cabbage and the meat-shaped stone that looks exactly like braised pork.
Plan at least three hours here, there’s a lot to take in. Before you leave, pop into the interactive “Marvels Within the Sea” digital exhibit for something a bit more playful.
Lunch: Huaxi Street Market & Local Favorites
Once you’re back in the city, hop off the MRT at Longshan Temple. From here, everything is within walking distance, so feel free to shuffle the order depending on your hunger levels.
For lunch, head to Huaxi Street Night Market, also known as Snake Alley. While its past reputation was a bit seedy, today it’s all about food. The market dates back to the 1950s and was once known for exotic dishes like snake soup. Thankfully, those days are gone, and what’s left is a small but authentic spot to sample some local favorites.
Some vendors here even have Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition. Try Wang’s Broth for braised pork rice with a rich, savory sauce. This dish is one of the most beloved Taiwanese comfort dishes, and absolutely a staple when it comes to what to eat in Taipei. Chang Hung is famous for its pork cheek noodles, while Yuan Fang serves one of Taipei’s best gua bao. These fluffy buns filled with tender pork belly, pickled cabbage, crushed peanuts, and cilantro are sweet, savory, and totally satisfying.
Afternoon: Longshan Temple & Bopiliao Historical Block
Once you’ve eaten your fill, take a moment to explore Longshan Temple, right around the corner. Built in the 1700s by settlers from Fujian, it’s one of the city’s oldest temples and still an important place of worship. Wander through its ornate halls, admire the intricate carvings and dragon pillars, and light some incense if you feel like joining the tradition.
Then walk a few minutes to Bopiliao Historical Block. This quiet, red-brick lane is one of the few remaining snapshots of 19th-century Taipei. Many of the buildings have been turned into small galleries or cultural spaces, so take your time peeking in.
Get Connected with an eSIM
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Walk to Dihua Street via Local Neighborhoods
From here, walk north toward Dihua Street. It’s about 30 minutes on foot, but the walk is part of the experience. You’ll pass through hidden temples, mom-and-pop eateries, local markets, and those signature covered walkways that Taipei does so well. It’s an easy, shaded stroll that gives you a more down-to-earth view of daily life in the city.
Later Afternoon: Dihua Street & Old Taipei Charm
Dihua Street is the oldest street in Taipei and a must for your Taipei itinerary if you’re into heritage, culture, and shopping. Located in the Datong District, this historic road dates back to the 1800s when Chinese merchants traded tea, fabrics, and medicinal herbs here. You’ll still see bundles of dried ginseng, star anise, and colorful piles of spices lining the storefronts.
The architecture here is a blend of South Chinese and Japanese colonial influences, and many shops have been beautifully restored. It’s one of our favorite places in Taipei for slow wandering. You’ll find everything from traditional tea shops to ceramics stores, cozy cafés, and street snacks.
If you’re looking for souvenirs in Taipei, this is the spot. We picked up a set of handcrafted wooden chopsticks and a fun necklace shaped like a xiao long bao. There are also plenty of edible gifts to choose from, like nut bars, dried fruit, or herbal candy.
Evening: Explore Ximending Walking Street
Later in the afternoon, head to Ximending. You’ll feel the shift in energy right away. This area is one of Taipei’s most popular spots for shopping, food, and entertainment. Some even call it the Harajuku of Taipei.
Start at the Red House, a striking octagonal building that dates back to 1908. It was originally a theater during the Japanese colonial period. These days, it’s been turned into a creative hub where local artists sell everything from handmade jewelry to quirky souvenirs.
Right outside the Red House is a rainbow-painted street that’s become a favorite photo spot. The whole square lights up in the evening with glowing billboards and neon signs—it’s great for photos any time of day.
As you explore the Ximending walking district, you’ll notice claw machines and vending machines everywhere. They’re bright, colorful, and open 24/7. Honestly, they’re addictive. You’ll be tempted to try just one… or five.
While wandering, check out Tattoo Street for its cool mix of tattoo parlors, piercing shops, and edgy boutiques. Just around the corner are America Street and Cinema Park, both covered in colorful murals and street art. It’s a fun area to explore with a drink in hand—there are a few relaxed bars serving local craft beer too.
Dinner: Soup Dumplings (Xiao Long Bao)
For dinner, we highly suggest to try xiao long bao, Taiwan’s famous soup dumplings. If you’ve never had them before, they’re little dumplings filled with a savory broth and pork. They’re super flavorful and a must when you’re in Taipei.
We can highly recommend going to Liangshan Po Soup Dumpling, a well-loved spot that’s known for their dumplings. It’s a pretty small place, so expect to wait about 30 minutes to get in. That’s totally normal in Taipei, especially at popular food spots. But honestly, waiting isn’t so bad, especially here, where you can watch the chefs making the dumplings fresh behind the counter. The dumplings are absolutely worth the wait—hot, juicy, and packed with flavor.
Ximending Night Market
After dinner, circle back to the Ximending shopping area and see how it transforms after dark. The vibe is electric. The streets fill with young crowds, music, and energy.
You’ll find street performers everywhere, singers, dancers, even magicians. Just walking around the Ximending night market area is a show in itself. People-watch, snack, and soak in the lights.
If you’re craving dessert, stop by Xing Fu Tang for some of the best bubble tea in Taipei. Or pop into Pop Mart, a shop filled with collectible blind boxes and quirky toys. Don’t miss Don Don Donki, the massive Japanese discount store with everything from snacks to skincare to strange gadgets.
There’s no set route here. Just follow your curiosity. Between the glowing signs, buzzing crowds, and never-ending food stalls, there’s always something new to see. Ximending at night really shows why this is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in Taipei.
Taipei Itinerary – Day 3: Modern Taipei & City Views
Songshan Cultural and Creative Park
Start your third day in Taipei by heading east to the Xinyi District. Take the Blue MRT line to Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall Station. From there, it’s a short walk to Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, a calm, low-key spot that offers a nice change of pace from Taipei’s busier attractions.
The park is set inside an old tobacco factory, now transformed into a creative hub. You’ll find warehouses and industrial buildings filled with design studios, concept stores, pop-up galleries, and art exhibitions. It’s a great place to wander. One moment you’re browsing minimalist stationery, the next you’re admiring handmade jewelry or quirky accessories. There are a few cafés scattered around as well. You might even want to treat yourself to a fresh-made artisanal dessert, most places prepare them on the spot while you wait.
What makes this park special is its raw, slightly overgrown charm. Trees wrap around buildings, there’s street art on the walls, and green space blends in with the architecture. Don’t miss the back entrance, it opens onto a wooden boardwalk surrounded by wetlands, giving the area a wild, urban jungle feel. Near the main entrance, there’s also a peaceful European-style garden with a fountain and statues.
Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall & Zhongshan Park
After soaking up the creative vibe at Songshan, make your way to the nearby National Dr. Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, an important historical site built to honor the founding father of modern Taiwan.
Even though the hall itself is temporarily closed, it’s still worth a visit. The surrounding park is beautiful, with shaded walking paths, lotus-filled ponds, and benches where you can relax. It also offers one of the best views of Taipei 101 towering in the distance, perfect for a photo stop before heading to the city’s crown jewel itself.
Taipei 101 Observatory
From here, it’s an easy walk to Taipei 101, or you can take the Red MRT line directly there. The MRT station even connects to the tower’s basement food court, which is super convenient.
Taipei 101 is one of the most iconic buildings in Asia. Its bamboo-inspired design is sleek and symbolic, and when it opened in 2004, it was the tallest building in the world. It held that record until 2009 and still ranks among the tallest today at 509 meters.
To visit the observatory, head to the 5th floor to buy your ticket, unless you’ve booked online. Then hop in one of the world’s fastest elevators for a 30-second ride straight to the 89th floor. Your ears will likely pop on the way up!
The views from the top are stunning. On a clear day, you can see all across Taipei and even spot Elephant Mountain in the distance. If possible, try to go when the weather’s good, fog or smog can really limit visibility.
Another unique highlight is the tuned mass damper on the 88th floor, a giant golden steel ball that stabilizes the building during strong winds and earthquakes. It’s both a fascinating engineering feature and a surprisingly fun exhibit.
Taipei 101 Shopping & Food Court
Once you’re back down, you can browse the shopping center inside the tower or dive into the excellent food court on the lower floor. If you’re craving xiao long bao again, there’s a branch of the famous Din Tai Fung here. Just know there’s usually a wait, often around 30 to 40 minutes. It’s smart to get a queue number first, then explore the shops while you wait.
Exploring the Xinyi District
The Xinyi District is Taipei’s sleekest shopping area, packed with malls, plazas, and modern architecture. You’ll find major malls like Breeze Nan Shan, as well as open-air spaces like Xinyi Plaza and Xiangti Avenue Plaza, both known for public art, street performers, and events.
It’s a fun area to just stroll around. There are also tons of cafés and eateries here. For a cozy break, grab a coffee at 小川珈琲所 (Ogawa Coffee) and soak up the slower afternoon vibe.
Still not done with creative parks? There’s one more nearby: 44 South Military Village. It’s smaller but offers some great photo ops and beautiful views of Taipei 101 from a different angle.
Elephant Mountain Hike (Xiangshan)
For sunset, head to Elephant Mountain, one of Taipei’s best-loved hiking trails and the perfect way to wrap up your trip. The trailhead is just a short walk from Taipei 101. Try to arrive around 4 PM so you can catch the daytime views and hopefully enjoy a stunning sunset too.
The trail itself is short—less than 2 kilometers—but it’s steep, with around 500 steps. It usually takes about 20 minutes to reach the main viewing platform, depending on your pace. The hike isn’t too difficult, but the stairs and Taipei’s humidity can make it a bit of a workout. Bring water and mosquito spray, and take breaks at the resting platforms along the way. Even halfway up, the views are already impressive.
At the top, you’re rewarded with one of the most iconic views of the Taipei skyline, with Taipei 101 perfectly centered. Try to stay through golden hour and into early evening, it’s amazing to watch the city lights flicker on. Yes, it’s a popular spot and can get crowded, but the atmosphere is still relaxed. People are just soaking in the view, snapping photos, or enjoying a quiet moment with the skyline.
Dinner: Local Eats or Night Market
After that hike, you’ve definitely earned a good meal. If you want to stay nearby, head to Tonghua Night Market, a lesser-known but great local spot just south of Taipei 101. For more xiao long bao, try 正好鮮肉小籠湯包, a local favorite.
Alternatively, head back to your own neighborhood and look for a busy local restaurant; some of the best meals in Taiwan are the ones you stumble upon. We’ve found amazing spots just by following the crowds and good smells.
Or make your way back to Ximending for one last food adventure. On our last night, we ended up in a little basement restaurant inside Wan Nian Shopping Mall. It was loud, packed, and slightly chaotic, in the best way. We ordered crispy pork cutlet with curry rice, a side salad, and a small bowl of broth. Everything was hot, flavorful, and came out super fast. Portions were generous, and prices were great.
Another must-try dish in Taipei is Lu Rou Fan (滷肉飯) or braised minced pork over rice, often served with a marinated egg and tofu skin. It’s simple but incredibly comforting. Two good places to try it in Ximending are Gan Mei Alley and 湯包樂.
What to do in Taipei for 4 days?
As you can see, there’s plenty to explore right within Taipei city itself. We really enjoyed discovering all the different neighborhoods and some quieter, less touristy corners too. But one of the things that makes Taipei special is how easy it is to escape into nature, without ever straying far from the city.
If you have an extra day to spend in Taipei, or want to swap out one of your days in the city for a change of scenery, here are a few easy and rewarding day trip ideas:
Jiufen
Jiufen is a photogenic mountain village that famously inspired Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away. Yes, it’s popular and can definitely get crowded, but it’s still worth visiting. The old street is most atmospheric in the evening when the lanterns are glowing and the narrow alleys feel truly magical. But during the day, you’ll get sweeping coastal views that are just as memorable.
Distance from Taipei: 1.5 hours by train or 1 hour by car
How to get there: Join a tour, drive, or take the local train from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang Station. From there, it’s a short taxi or bus ride up the hill to Jiufen.
Shifen
Shifen is often combined with a visit to Jiufen, and it’s a fun little stop if you’re into sky lanterns or waterfalls. The old street runs right along the train tracks, and visitors come here to write wishes on colorful lanterns and launch them into the sky. Just a few minutes away is Shifen Waterfall—a wide, powerful cascade sometimes called the “Little Niagara of Taiwan.”
Distance from Taipei: About 1.5–2 hours
How to get there: Take a train from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang, then transfer to the Pingxi line and get off at Shifen Station. From the station, the waterfall is about a 15-minute walk.
Tip: Jiufen and Shifen are often visited together on guided day trips.
Beitou Hot Springs
If you’d like to experience traditional hot springs, Beitou is an easy half-day escape right on the Taipei MRT line. The area is known for its white sulphur springs, which are said to help with circulation, skin, and stress. There are public pools as well as more private options, and you can easily pair it with a visit to the Beitou Hot Spring Museum or the nearby thermal valley.
Distance from Taipei: 42 minutes by MRT
How to get there: Take the red Tamsui-Xinyi MRT line from Taipei Main Station to Beitou, then transfer one stop to Xinbeitou.
Cost: Day passes for two start around NT$1600 / £40, with various options and packages available.
Yehliu Geopark
If you’re up for something a little different, Yehliu Geopark is a great option. It’s known for its surreal rock formations shaped by sea erosion—especially the famous “Queen’s Head” and dozens of other natural sculptures. It’s a coastal area that feels otherworldly, and a good place to walk along dramatic cliffs and learn about Taiwan’s unique geology. Weekdays are quieter, but even when busy, it’s a fascinating landscape to explore.
Distance from Taipei: About 1.5 hours
How to get there: The easiest way is by bus from Taipei Main Station or Kuo-Kuang Bus Station (bus 1815) to Yehliu. You can also join a day tour that combines Yehliu with Jiufen or other spots.
Maekong
Maokong is a peaceful tea-growing region in the hills just south of the city. It’s the perfect spot if you’re after a more laid-back day. Take the scenic Maokong Gondola up into the hills, then spend your time sipping locally grown tea at a traditional teahouse, walking quiet trails, and visiting temples with city views. The area is especially pretty around sunset, and if you’re a fan of oolong tea, this is the place to be.
Distance from Taipei: About 45–60 minutes
How to get there: Take the MRT to Taipei Zoo Station (end of the brown line), then ride the Maokong Gondola up into the hills. The gondola ride takes about 20–30 minutes.
Tip: Check the gondola schedule before you go—it sometimes closes for weather or maintenance.
Taipei Travel Resources
TRANSPORTATION | To book bus, minivan, and train rides online, we recommend using the website 12go.Asia. This platform has been our go-to across Asia. If you’re traveling during peak season, book tickets ahead as some routes in Taiwan can get booked out quickly.
ACCOMMODATION | Finding affordable places to stay in Taipei is a breeze with Booking.com. It’s the ideal platform to discover budget-friendly hostels and hotels.
FLIGHTS | Discover the best flight deals to Taipei on Skyscanner. Benefit from their feature highlighting the cheapest days to fly and the flexibility to search by month or region.
TRAVEL INSURANCE | When it comes to travel insurance, consider Heymondo. It’s our top recommendation for comprehensive and trustworthy coverage. Get 5% OFF through our link.
STAY CONNECTED | Secure reliable internet access for your Taiwan trip with Airalo. Simply install it on your eSIM-compatible smartphone before your journey. Use promo code NEWTOAIRALO15 for 15% off any eSIM (for new Airalo users only). Use AIRALOESIM10 for 10% off as an existing user.
TOURS & ATTRACTIONS | For the best and most affordable tours, day trip excursions and cooking classes in Taipei, check out GetYourGuide or Viator.
VISA ORGANIZATION | Before your trip, ensure you check the visa requirements for your passport nationality. Explore details on travel documents at iVisa.com.
ONLINE PRIVACY | Always safeguard your online activity and digital privacy when using public Wi-Fi abroad by using a VPN. We’ve trusted ExpressVPN for years! Plus, a VPN lets you stream Netflix shows from any country. Get 3 months FREE when getting a 12-month plan with our link.
Final thoughts on Our 3-day Taipei Itinerary
And that’s a wrap on this 3-day Taipei itinerary! While this guide mostly covers the inner city, you can easily fill a few extra days with day trips or deeper explorations if you have more time. I hope this itinerary gives you a good starting point to plan your own trip and helps you get the most out of your time in this incredibly underrated city. Honestly, I didn’t expect to love Taipei as much as I did. But between the food, the culture, the friendly energy, and all the nearby nature, it completely won me over. I’m already thinking about what I’d want to see on a second visit.
Even just three days in Taipei gives you a great mix of everything, street food, temples, design, city views, and relaxing green spaces. If you’re traveling around Asia, Taipei makes for a perfect short stop, especially as a stopover on the way to or from another destination. Just don’t be surprised if it leaves you wanting more.
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