Places you need to see if you’re in Taipei for a week; from historical favourites to hidden gems, check out these places to get a more authentic Taipei experience. 

Taipei, Taiwan

Week in: Taipei

As the current capital of Taiwan, it’s highly recommended that you visit Taipei at least once. It’s such an easy city to navigate, with plenty of people that will try to help if you ask. Bustling night markets are must-see for any visitor; there are so many around Taipei, that you’ve no reason not to go. There are great sites and buildings to see, whether you like more modern architecture such as Taipei 101, or prefer a more traditional visit such as the National Palace Museum. Aside from all the sites, Taipei offers a lot in the way of food and coffee. 

Don’t even try to get around Taipei without heading into an MRT station. Basically, it’s Taiwan’s subway system. Save this map to your phone or pick one up at any station. First, you’re gonna need a travel pass. Go to a 7/11 and pick up an EasyCard at the counter which you top with any amount you want. Head to an information desk in a station and ask for a travel pass. They have different ones depending on how long you need it for. Then, you’re free to roam Taipei via station. 

1. Cash is king in Taiwan. Sure, some places accept card but you’re better off being prepared. There are atms in almost every 7/11 or Family Mart so you can easily withdraw at a moments notice. 

There are so many different types of places to see in Taipei depending on your interests, but here are the highlights. 

Taiwan is known for having great food. The Taiwanese street food is where it’s at and so a night market should definitely be on your list of things to try. 

Taipei offers a lot in the way of clubs and bars. Do be aware that the majority of clubs have a minimum entrance fee. 

While in Taiwan, it’s a given that you’ll want to try boba. Don’t forget to pick up some coffee and tea to fuel your visit!

Learn more about Taiwanese history and art. 

It’s pretty easy to navigate Taipei without any Chinese. For those times when you need a little Chinese, don’t be afraid to use google translate. 

2. Walking shoes. Comfort over style is the rule here. No matter what, you’re gonna end up doing a lot of walking and your feet will thank you in the long run. 

3. Student card if you have it. You can get discounts on tickets to lots of different sites. 

If cycling around is more up your alley, then you’ll be happy to learn about YouBikes. Using your EasyCard, rock up to a kiosk (found near most YouBikes) and register your card with your phone number. This will alllow you to tap your EasyCard and cycle around until you return the bike. You’ll find these white and yellow bikes throughout the city. Cycle lanes are pretty abundant in Taipei but if you have the confidence for it, don’t be afraid to cycle on the road too as long as you steer clear of any motorways! That will be frowned upon. 

★★★★★ "Small, clean, cozy vibes. The staff were really nice and it was so easy to call ahead to make a booking. Got the margarita pizza and vegan V-hot pizza. Both were amazing! I would say it’s the best pizza I’ve had in Taiwan. It was a thin crust and there was a lot of sauce on it. Definitely would recommend going here!"

Google review of Gusto Pizza by Nicole

Gusto Pizza

★★★★★ "This is a lovely vegan restaurant for dinner and events. The decor and atmosphere are really chic, yet cozy. It feels like an upscale restaurant that you would find in a 4 star hotel. I would recommend making a reservation at least half a day in advance as this place is usually very busy. There are a lot of options here. This was my first time having the pizza. It was pretty good for a vegan pizza but I would have loved it even more if there was more cheese. This is a pet friendly place. Staff are friendly enough. This is one of the more reasonably priced vegan restaurants, especially considering it is in Taipei."

Google review of BaganHood 蔬食餐酒館 by Nicole

BaganHood 蔬食餐酒館

The Quiet Light 默光咖啡（瑞安店）

★★★★☆ "Sat outside but it was raining so next time I would ask to be seated inside. The restaurant has a nice atmosphere. The food was good, however the portion size was a little small. The mac n cheese was 295. My friend got the brownie and said it was probably the best brownie she has had in Taipei. It cost 200. The staff were friendly and helpful"

Google review of Herban Kitchen & Bar by Nicole

Herban Kitchen & Bar

★★★★★ "Check out this museum if you find that you don’t know enough about Taiwan’s history or if you want to brush up on your knowledge of Formosa. A great place to go and spend some time for such a low price. You can even get a deal with your ticket so you can see the  Land Bank Exhibition Hall across the road where you can learn about dinosaurs and endemic species of Taiwan"

Google review of National Taiwan Museum by Nicole

National Taiwan Museum

Land Bank Exhibition Hall of National Taiwan Museum

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Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

2/28 Peace Park

Songshan Cultural and Creative Park

★★★★★ "A fantastical way to spend a morning or afternoon, particularly on a rainy or cloudy day. Head on up to Shilin and spend some time inside exploring the cosmos. Tickets are so inexpensive that it would be ridiculous not to go!"

Google review of Taipei Astronomical Museum by Nicole

Taipei Astronomical Museum

National Palace Museum

Dahu Park

Miramar Ferris Wheel

Taipei Children's Amusement Park

Daan Forest Park

Nangang Park

MoCA Taipei

Taipei Flower Market

MAJI Square

Bubble Land氣泡飲＆特調咖啡專賣店

Treasure Hill Artist Village

★★★★★ "I love this restaurant! I always go here for fresh dumplings and noodles. Katherine (the owner) is lovely and speaks perfect English. She is very accommodating and takes the time to explain the menu to new customers. It’s an easy enough place to find if you get the orange MRT line and get out at Xingtian temple exit 4."

Google review of 來欣素食手工水餃 by Nicole

來欣素食手工水餃

Tamsui Riverside Park

★★★★★ "Best risotto in Taipei!! I love this dish. I’ve gotten several times. The restaurant is bright and open with a modern feel. If you’re thinking of dining in, then it’s best to make a reservation ahead of time as this place is always packed! The staff are friendly and prompt. They have a lot of options in table sizes so this restaurant would be greater for larger groups too"

Google review of So Veg by Nicole

So Veg

Shilin Night Market

Ningxia Night Market

COMEBUY_台北復錦店(錦州街、近復興北路)

古早味艋舺仙草

Hengli Breakfast Restaurant

Ching Shin Fu Chuan Tea Station

Taipei 101 observatory

★★★★★ "A great place to go with friends or family. It’s a huge zoo so you’ll need more time than you think! Try to go as early in the day as you can. I would recommend grabbing a map from the visitors centre as well. It’s really cheap to get in (about 60 NTD). Bring some extra snacks and water. The shops and restaurants on site have such long queues and only have a small number of items for sale (at high enough prices). There is a 711 inside near the entrance. You should also check out the cable car (gondola) for a great view."