Complete guide to Star Alliance mileage redemption, using Star Alliance miles, Star Alliance mileage usage with tips

3 Nights 4 Days in Taipei: A Practical Travel Guide Using Star Alliance Miles

A single booking can change the entire landscape of a trip. In this post, we’ll show you how to save on airfare using Star Alliance miles and allocate that budget towards local experiences and accommodation upgrades for a 3-night, 4-day trip to Taipei. This guide covers everything from booking flights, airport transfers, daily itineraries, accommodation recommendations by region, budget tips, and money-saving advice. Each section includes links for reservations and confirmations.

Travel itinerary: Day 1 – Ximending, Longshan Temple, Ningxia Night Market / Day 2 – Jiufen, Shifen day trip / Day 3 – Tamsui, Beitou Hot Spring / Day 4 – Taipei 101, National Palace Museum
Flights: Strategies for using Star Alliance miles and alternative booking options
Transport: Airport MRT, Transit Card, Taxi/Pickup options
Accommodation: Pros and cons by area and price range
Budget: Average costs for meals, transportation, entrance fees, and discount code usage

Note

This post is based on the most recent information and provides commonly used methods and price ranges. Flight schedules, mileage policies, and admission fees may change, so please verify via official channels before finalizing any bookings.

Preparation

Taipei is a city with a dense public transportation network, making it easy for first-timers to navigate. However, it frequently rains, and sudden downpours can occur, so a lightweight waterproof jacket, a small umbrella, and a waterproof pouch are handy. The voltage is 110V, and the plugs are flat two-pin (Type A), so bringing a multi-adapter is essential.

Travel Documents: Valid passport, eSIM or pocket Wi-Fi, travel insurance
Payment: Credit card (with low foreign transaction fees), small cash
Closing: Breathable clothing, a thin umbrella/waterproof jacket
Others: Multi-adapter, portable battery, hand sanitizer

Check out essential travel items to ensure you have everything you need before the departure day.

Tip

If you plan to use “Star Alliance miles” for your flight, be sure your passport name (in Roman spelling) matches the name on your membership program exactly. This will help minimize booking errors and save you time on corrections at the airport.

Transport

Traveling from Incheon to Taipei (Taoyuan International Airport, TPE) is usually direct or involves one stop using Star Alliance airlines. Popular mileage programs for this route include United MileagePlus, Singapore KrisFlyer, ANA Mileage Club, and Air Canada Aeroplan. Mileage deduction methods, fuel surcharges, and taxes vary by airline, so it is advantageous to compare 2-3 programs simultaneously.

Search Methods: Use each program’s website/app → Combining two one-way tickets can sometimes be more favorable than a round-trip booking.
Seat Availability: Sometimes additional seats become available 2 weeks before departure or T-3 to 1 day, so setting up alerts can be helpful.
Taxes and Fees: Even with the same miles, the cash burden can differ, so always compare the total at the payment stage.
Stopover: Some programs allow stopovers on one-way trips for additional paid miles (e.g., Aeroplan’s one-way stopover option). Extend your travel experience with stayovers in connecting cities.

The key to using “Star Alliance miles” is flexibility and combinations. On the same date, try different combinations for departure/return times, and if direct flights are not available, consider transfers in Tokyo, Osaka, or Taipei.

Sometimes there are no mileage seats available on your preferred dates, or cash fares might be more favorable. Quick decisions using comparative searches aid in designing the entire itinerary.

At book the lowest airfares, you can set wider date ranges to first determine the lowest price weeks, then compare this with “Star Alliance miles” and cash payment for a rational decision.

Note

Air tickets booked with miles may have different change or cancellation policies compared to cash bookings. Fees, change deadlines, and no-show policies vary by program and fare type, so always verify these before booking.

Airport

Upon arriving at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), the simplest option is taking the Airport MRT to Taipei Main Station. The ride takes roughly 35-45 minutes, and the fare varies based on distance and train type, but is generally reasonable. For late-night arrivals, we recommend using an airport taxi or pre-booked pickup. It is particularly satisfying for groups of 2-4 given the cost-efficiency.

Airport MRT: Clear signs, and numerous ticket/EasyCard top-up machines are available.
EasyCard: Usable on subways, buses, convenience stores, and is rechargeable.
eSIM/Wi-Fi: Convenient at the arrivals telecom counter or via pre-booked pickup.

Pre-booking a vehicle through airport pickup reservation to match your arrival time allows you to head straight to your hotel after luggage claim, especially convenient for first-time visitors.

Tip

If you’ve saved on flights by using “Star Alliance miles” for both directions, compensate with a high-time-value option (pickup) for airport transfers to enhance overall satisfaction.

Ximending

On the first day, after checking into your hotel, we recommend taking a leisurely stroll around the Ximending area. This pedestrian-friendly zone is bustling with shopping, snacks, and street performances. In the evening, head to Ningxia Night Market to enjoy Taiwanese street food and wind down your day.

Location/Transport: Around Taipei MRT Ximen station
Budget: Snacks range from 3,000 to 10,000 KRW, casual meals per person from 10,000 to 20,000 KRW
Sights: Local shops, bubble tea, sneaker and sticker shops

Recommendation

After enjoying some snacks in Ximending, make your way to Ningxia Night Market by subway or taxi to continue your snacking journey. Use the money saved on flights with “Star Alliance miles” to indulge in local culinary experiences.

Note

During peak times, it can be very crowded, so keep your belongings secured in your bag and distribute your cash in different locations.

Longshan Temple

Longshan Temple is one of Taipei’s oldest temples, offering a serene atmosphere amidst the city’s bustle. It’s a great place to observe local customs and religious sentiments as locals offer prayers.

Location/Transport: Near MRT Longshan Temple Station
Admission: Generally free, donations accepted
Viewing Points: The main hall, incense and sound during religious rituals

Tip

Please be respectful when taking photos around incense burners. Avoid using flash, and visit at less busy times to enjoy a more tranquil experience.

Jiufen

On the second day, take a day trip to Jiufen and Shifen to experience the charm of small towns. Jiufen is famous for its hillside alleys, lanterns, and tea houses. Enjoy a cup of tea while overlooking the sea from an alley teahouse.

Transport: Take a train + bus or direct bus from Taipei Main Station
Budget: The return transport cost is reasonable with public transportation (varies by distance and method)
Sights: Jiufen Old Street, observation decks, traditional teahouses

Utilizing a Jiufen-Shifen shuttle or tour booked through book destinations activities allows you to conveniently explore both areas in one day without complicated transfers. On rainy days, using a private vehicle is especially beneficial.

Note

Jiufen has steep slopes and lots of stairs. Slip-resistant shoes are recommended. Be cautious of wet floors during rainy conditions and walk slowly.

Shifen

Shifen is famous for sky lantern releases. Lined with tea houses and souvenir shops along the railroad village, it’s a great place to stroll and take photos.

Experience: Write wishes on colored lanterns, walk along the river
Budget: The lantern experience varies in price depending on the store, but generally affordable

Tip

Think about what to write on the lantern in advance to save time on site. If traveling with family, choose a shop that offers group photo services. With savings from “Star Alliance miles,” you could also invest in printing family photos as a keepsake.

Tamsui

On the third day morning, head to Tamsui. With riverfront walks, cafes, and snacks, it’s great for a relaxed time. Famous spots include the Tamsui Fish Market and sunset points. If you have time, consider a short ferry ride to Bali or a fishing village.

Transport: MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line (Red Line) terminal
Budget: Subway/Ferry fares vary by route and line
Sights: Tamsui Old Street, fish market, sunset views

Recommendation

Adjust the pace of your travel by enjoying snacks by the Tamsui riverside around sunset. If you prefer a relaxation-focused itinerary, allocate more time in Tamsui before moving to Beitou Hot Spring.

Beitou

Beitou is a hot spring area offering a range from public baths to private options. If you wish to experience the sulfuric hot springs, check the temperature, usage times, and dress code in advance.

Transport: Around MRT Beitou Station/Xinbeitou Station
Budget: Public hot springs are affordable, while private rooms vary by hotel and time
Sights: Thermal Valley, Hot Spring Museum

Note

While enjoying the hot springs, stay hydrated to prevent dehydration and safely store valuables at the counter or personal lockers.

Taipei 101

On the fourth day, visit the Taipei 101 observation deck to gaze at the panoramic city view. On clear days, visibility extends to surrounding mountains, with the scenery shifting from dusk to nighttime.

Location/Transport: MRT Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station
Budget: Observation deck entry follows the official price, with online advance reservation discounts sometimes available.
Recommended Itinerary: Observatory → Mall food court → Nearby cafe break

You can check the dates and time slots for the observation and city night view products at book destinations activities and invest the extra budget saved using “Star Alliance miles” in iconic landmark experiences.

National Palace Museum

The National Palace Museum is renowned for its extensive collection, with exhibitions regularly curated. Using an audio guide or a tour with Korean guides ensures you won’t miss major points of interest.

Transport: MRT + bus link (get off at the museum stop)
Budget: Admission follows official rates, varying with special exhibitions
Viewing Tip: Allocate 2-3 hours and focus on major sections

Tip

When the weather is bad or very hot, arrange indoor-oriented courses like museums and observatories to preserve your stamina. Place these later in the itinerary to align with the convenient flight times secured through “Star Alliance miles.”

Local Experiences

Besides food, night views, and night markets, Taipei offers a diversity of activities that cater to different tastes, such as biking (YouBike), tea classes, and nighttime photo tours. With short travel times, half-day programs can provide ample satisfaction.

Tea Class: Learn about and taste varieties like Oolong and Oriental Beauty
Nighttime Tour: Focus on 101 perimeter and riverbank points
Street Food Tour: Includes routes through major night markets and hygiene tips

When time is limited, consider buying time. Securing the desired date and time through book destinations activities helps avoid long lines and streamlines your itinerary.

Budget

The budget for 3 nights 4 days in Taipei varies depending on travel style, but the range below can ease planning.

Flights: Using “Star Alliance miles” keeps cash expenses centered around taxes and fees (varies by program and itinerary)
Accommodation: Mid-range hotels typically range from 100,000 to 200,000 KRW per night, with higher rates for boutique/premium options
Food: Light meals range from 10,000 to 20,000 KRW per person, and restaurants from 20,000 to 40,000 KRW
Transport: MRT/bus is reasonable depending on daily travel volume (recommended to top up a transportation card)
Entries/Activities: Select key experiences like observation decks, museums, and tours

Adding discount codes can significantly increase your savings. Check Klook’s monthly promo codes for Taipei activities and transportation passes first. Double-check for available codes as needed.

If considering local tours or a private guide, also check MyRealTrip discount codes for more choices.

Tip

For those who saved on flights using “Star Alliance miles,” mix free and paid experiences for local adventures. Combine cost-friendly activities like public museums, temples, and markets with a few appealing paid experiences for higher satisfaction and a well-balanced budget.

Accommodation

Choose an area based on convenience or preference. Here are recommendations based on accessibility and convenience for first-timers.

Near Taipei Main Station: Ideal for airport MRT/train/subway transfers. Suitable for a transport-centric schedule.
Ximending: Bright and lively even at night. Focused on shopping, snacks, and leisurely walks.
Zhongshan/Nanjing Fuxing: A concentration of cafes/restaurants, relatively quiet and sophisticated.

Mid-range hotels are usually around 100,000-200,000 KRW per night, with price fluctuations on weekends and peak seasons. Confirm cancellation policies and breakfast inclusions before booking.

Quickly compare the lowest prices and refund policies for each date at compare hotel prices, and lock in accommodation to stabilize your entire itinerary.

Recommendation

If flights are early on the first/last day, consider bookings near Taipei Main Station and switching to Ximending or Zhongshan for 1-2 nights in between for a split stay across two areas. With the flexibility of flight timings secured using “Star Alliance miles,” adjusting accommodations to match your schedule rhythm is effective.

Transport

Taipei boasts an efficient MRT and bus system, with taxi fares comparatively reasonable. Purchasing and topping-up an EasyCard allows seamless travel on most transport, and it’s also accepted at convenience stores.

MRT: English labels and announcements make it easy to use for first-timers
Bus: Fares vary by route, paid via cash or card
Taxi: Useful for short hop compression of an itinerary

Note

Press the bell when you wish to alight from the bus, and check signs as entry and exit doors can differ. Consider taxis or pre-arranged pick-ups late at night when the MRT is unavailable for safety reasons.

Meals

Taipei is rich in popular dishes like noodles, dim sum, braised pork rice, and mango shaved ice. Popular spots usually have a waiting time, so aim for right after opening or off-peak hours. Pay attention to hygiene and hydration, trying very sweet or salty items moderately at first to ease in.

Tip

If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, preparing a note in Chinese/English helps when ordering. Use the saved budget from “Star Alliance miles” to try a course meal at a local favorite once.

Safety & Practical Information

Security: Generally safe if basic personal item management is observed, especially in tourist areas
Weather: Prepare for rain, and mix indoor/outdoor courses
Communication: Pre-acquire eSIM/Wi-Fi
Voltage: 110V, Type A plugs (multi-adapter needed)
Payment: Use both cash and cards, as some small shops prefer cash

Maximizing Star Alliance Miles

Flexible Dates: Mid-week departures/returns can improve seat availability.
One-way Combos: Issue departure/return separately using different programs for cost optimization.
Exploring Layovers: Consider a stroll in transit cities lasting half a day as your schedule allows (check entry regulations first)
Mix Class Seats: Opt for economy one-way and premium economy/business for the return to manage stamina
Mileage Expiry: After checking expiration dates, plan trips using miles that will expire first.

“Star Alliance miles” not only help reduce ticket costs, but they are also tools for reshaping your travel itinerary, fatigue management, and expanding your experience range. Quickly secure visible seats and hybrid strategies of cash bookings integrate seamlessly.

Sample Itinerary (3 Nights 4 Days)

Day 1: Incheon → Arrive Taoyuan → Airport MRT/Pickup → Ximending Stroll → Longshan Temple → Ningxia Night Market
Day 2: Jiufen & Shifen day trip (by tour or public transport) → Return to Taipei
Day 3: Tamsui River Walk → Beitou Hot Spring → Zhongshan/Ximending Night Walk
Day 4: National Palace Museum → Taipei 101 Observation Deck → Airport Transfer → Incheon

Each location involves a travel time of approximately 30-60 minutes, ensuring a manageable schedule. Swap the morning/afternoon blocks to suit the flight schedule secured using “Star Alliance miles” to decrease stamina depletion.

Final Checklist

Flight: Confirm mileage booking, verify passport name matches exactly
Accommodations: Check refund/change policies, confirm check-in times and deposit policies
Transport: Finalize airport transfer plans (pickup or MRT), ensure EasyCard preparedness
Communications: Verify eSIM/Wi-Fi receipt method
Activities: Reserve popular programs ahead of time, adjust time slots as required

Action Guide

If you want to confirm your itinerary now, proceed with the following steps:

Flights: Prioritize seat availability using “Star Alliance miles” and confirm as soon as possible, or issue a cash ticket if it suits. If seats aren’t visible, allow flexibility of 2-3 days for searching. Alternative searches are convenient at book the lowest airfares.
Accommodation: Divide reservations into 1-2 areas based on the itinerary blocks (early, middle, late) for efficient navigation. Confirm conditions and prices using compare hotel prices.
Airport Transfer: If arriving late or with significant luggage, minimize transfer stress by using airport pickup reservations.
Activities: Secure times for popular programs such as Jiufen, Shifen, and Taipei 101 through book destinations activities for a streamlined itinerary.
Discount Codes: Optimizing the budget is cumulative. Use Klook monthly promo codes and MyRealTrip discount codes together.
Essentials: Secure items like voltage adapters, umbrellas, and power banks from essential travel items before departure.

Finally, “Star Alliance miles” require quick completion once seats are visible. The same seat can disappear during payment delays, so keep passport details and payment cards ready.

Conclusion

Taipei is a city where the chance of travel mishaps for newcomers is low, and there’s always something fresh for repeat visitors. Mitigate the strain of flights with “Star Alliance miles” and refine your itinerary with pickup and pre-booking services locally. Small preparations significantly elevate whole-trip satisfaction.

It is recommended to pre-reserve flights, accommodations, transfers, and activities. Check the links below with ease for confirmation.

We wish you an intelligent start with “Star Alliance miles” for your upcoming trip. Have a safe and easy journey to Taipei.