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Complete guide to Things to do in Taipei with tips

How to Explore Taipei in 3 Days: A Roadmap and Practical Guide to Things to Do in Taipei

Taipei is a city where the efficiency of a metropolitan and the warmth of alleys coexist. In this post, I will guide you through an actual travel itinerary, systematically organizing the unique features and attractions of each location, as well as providing historical and cultural context, locations, and price information. This includes essential routes accessible with a single transport card, convenient tips for getting from the airport to the city, budget and currency exchange tips, and reasonable accommodation choices. Especially for those looking for “things to do in Taipei,” I’ve structured an itinerary where you can fully enjoy a 3-day trip without feeling rushed, considering time and routes.

Preparation Before the Trip

Taipei uses 110V voltage and A/B type plugs. This differs from Korea (220V, C/F type), so a converter adapter is necessary. With frequent showers and often walking both in the city and on trails, a lightweight waterproof jacket, comfortable walking shoes, and a small umbrella will be handy. Although mobile-centered payments are rapidly becoming widespread, some stores in traditional markets still use cash, so preparing small amounts of cash is convenient.

Tip

  • Buying a USIM/eSIM in advance or picking it up at the airport is the most convenient. 3-to-5-day plans are common, costing approximately 5,000 to 15,000 KRW.
  • Prepare your essentials online before departure to save time and money.
    Prepare Travel Essentials

Transportation

Taipei’s main gateway airports are Taoyuan (TPE) and Songshan (TSA). Taoyuan has many routes from Korea, while Songshan is more accessible to the city. When booking flight tickets, being flexible with departure times and comparing one-way tickets can help find cheaper prices.

  • Flight Booking: Off-peak weekdays in the morning or evening are relatively more reasonable.
    Book Flights at the Lowest Price
  • Airport→City: Taoyuan Airport MRT (express/local) usually takes about 35-50 minutes to Taipei Main Station and costs around 6,500 to 7,500 KRW one way. For late-night arrivals, using the airport bus or taxi/ride-sharing is safe.

Note

  • During late night hours (midnight to dawn), public transportation intervals can be longer. Aim to secure your first-day accommodation within a 10-minute walk from the station to reduce travel stress.

Getting Around

If you have a lot of luggage or are traveling with family or friends, booking an airport pickup can make your first-day route much lighter.

  • Book Airport Pickup: It’s a good idea to check for flight delays, meeting place for the driver, and vehicle information in advance.

Public Transportation

Taipei MRT has easy-to-navigate routes for first-time users and clear signage, which makes it pleasant to use as queue lines are maintained before/after boarding. With short transfer distances, “Things to Do in Taipei” explorations linking several neighborhoods in a day are efficient.

  • EasyCard: Issue with a deposit and top-up method. If you plan on traveling a lot throughout the day, consider 1-day/2-day/3-day passes.
  • Fare: Short distances cost a few hundred KRW to long distances in the mid-2,000 KRW range. A 1-day pass is approximately 6,000 KRW.

Tip

  • Google Maps/Apple Maps public transportation navigation is accurate. Also, verify the internal station markings (exit numbers).

Day 1 Itinerary: Ximending—Bopiliao—Longshan Temple—Dihua Street—Ximending at Night

Bopiliao Historical Block

This area retains architectural styles from the Qing dynasty to the Japanese colonial period, providing insight into urban history and commercial changes in Taipei. The past’s red bricks and wooden structures have been restored to operate as exhibition and workshop spaces. It’s an excellent starting point if you want to feel the old textures of the city among the “Things to Do in Taipei.”

  • Location/Transport: Within walking distance from MRT Blue/Green Line ‘Ximen’ or Blue Line ‘Longshan Temple’ stations.
  • Admission: Walking outside is free (some exhibitions may have a fee).

Longshan Temple

A representative temple of Taipei where Buddhism, Taoism, and folk religions coexist in the city. Lines for incense remain orderly, and travelers can quietly worship. Take your time viewing the detailed sculptures of the internal pond, bronze statues, and eaves.

  • Location/Transport: Directly in front of MRT Blue Line ‘Longshan Temple’ station.
  • Admission: Free (donations/incense cost is voluntary).

Note

  • Inside the temple, remove hats and sunglasses, and follow the photography guidelines. Tripods are often restricted.

Dihua Street

A traditional commercial area with stores selling Chinese medicine ingredients, nuts, and dried seafood, alongside cafes and design shops housed in renovated old buildings like Kurosakan. Famous for the New Year market during the New Year season, this area is ideal for shopping for gifts even during regular times. If you want to go on a delightful snacking tour among the “Things to Do in Taipei,” I recommend trying the peanut ice cream, pineapple cakes, and dried fruits here.

  • Location/Transport: Walk from MRT Orange Line ‘Beimen’ or ‘Daqiaotou’ stations.
  • Price range: Snacks from 1,500 to 4,500 KRW per piece, pineapple cakes approximately 10,000 to 25,000 KRW for 6-12 pieces.

Recommendation

  • Many shops offer tastings. Feel free to taste and pick your favorites.

Ximending

Taipei’s youth neighborhood with a concentration of street fashion, goods shops, cinemas, and bubble tea brands. It gets lively in the evening, with street performances often encountered. To fully experience “Things to Do in Taipei,” take a night stroll around the large bookstores, limited edition sneaker shops, and local restaurants here.

  • Location/Transport: MRT Blue/Green Line ‘Ximen’ station.
  • Budget: Dinner 8,000 to 15,000 KRW, dessert/bubble tea 2,500 to 5,000 KRW.

Day 2 Itinerary: Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall—National Palace Museum—Shilin Night Market

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

A symbolic city space with a vast square, imposing steps, and a striking blue roofed hall. The hourly changing of the guard is famous, and you may also want to explore the neighboring National Theater and National Concert Hall.

  • Location/Transport: MRT Red/Green/Blue Line intersection at ‘Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall’ station.
  • Admission: Free outdoors, some indoor exhibitions may have fees.

National Palace Museum

This museum’s core collection consists of Qing dynasty artifacts of the Chinese realm, showcasing extensive relics such as jade, ceramics, calligraphy, and crafts. Check the rotation frequency of regular exhibits, whether a Korean audio guide is available, and the exhibition status of major popular exhibits (such as the Jadeite Cabbage and Meat-Shaped Stone). With lengthy indoor routes, allow 2 to 3 hours for viewing. Among the “Things to Do in Taipei,” this is a course that’s enjoyable even on rainy or hot days.

  • Location/Transport: Disembark at MRT Red Line ‘Shilin’ station and transfer to a bus.
  • Admission fee: For adults, around 12,000 to 18,000 KRW.

Tip

  • For a relaxed viewing experience, enter immediately after the opening in the morning. The quality of the cafes and museum shops is high, making them ideal for gift shopping.

Shilin Night Market

The representative night market of Taipei spans from an alley next to the baseball stadium to an underground food court and surrounding streets, offering food and games. There are extensive menu options like jumbo chicken cutlets, pepper buns, and mango desserts. Among the “Things to Do in Taipei,” this is the most vibrant place at night; just follow the neon signs and the flow of people for a fun experience.

  • Location/Transport: Disembark at MRT Red Line ‘Jiantan’ station.
  • Budget: Street food 1,500 to 4,500 KRW per piece, dessert 3,000 to 6,000 KRW.

Note

  • Peak times (19:00-21:00) are congested. Keep valuables in front and distribute cash to safe spots.

Day 3 Itinerary: Xiangshan—Taipei 101—Maokong Gondola—Raohe Night Market

Xiangshan (Elephant Mountain) Trail

Climbing the stairs reveals a panoramic view of the city from a close proximity, with Taipei 101 directly in sight, making it a famous photo spot. The sun is intense in the summer, so it’s recommended to visit early in the morning or at dusk.

  • Location/Transport: Disembark at MRT Red Line ‘Xiangshan’ station, with a 10-15 minute walk to the trail entrance.
  • Admission: Free.

Recommendation

  • Climb during dusk to the blue hour to witness the city lights turning on alongside the nighttime view of 101. Even without a tripod, use the handrails to reduce shaking.

Taipei 101 Observatory

This super-tall observatory offers a breathtaking view of the sea, mountains, and cityscape in favorable weather. On windy days, stick to indoor viewing, and on clear days, venture to the outdoor sky deck. Among the “Things to Do in Taipei,” this experience guarantees an impressive view of the city’s skyline.

  • Location/Transport: MRT Red Line ‘Taipei 101/World Trade Center’ station.
  • Admission fee: For adults, around 20,000 to 28,000 KRW.

Tip

Maokong Gondola

Ride the gondola from Taipei Zoo Station to Maokong to enjoy a leisurely scenery adorned with teahouses along the mountain slopes. Though the Crystal Cabins with transparent floors have longer waiting times, they offer a unique experience. The afternoon ascent, allowing for a stay until sunset, is a popular choice.

  • Location/Transport: Connected from MRT Brown Line ‘Taipei Zoo’ station to the gondola platform.
  • Fares: Around 5,000 to 8,000 KRW one way, approximately 10,000 KRW, including return.

Note

  • Operations may halt due to strong winds or heavy rain. Check operation notices before departure.

Raohe (Songshan) Night Market

With a relatively straightforward layout, from the street in front of the church, the lineup is well organized, making it easy to navigate for first-timers. Enjoy various street foods like pepper buns, skewers, and herbal rice. Among the “Things to Do in Taipei,” this is a manageable scale for spending your last night.

  • Location/Transport: Near MRT Green Line ‘Songshan’ station.
  • Budget: Simple night market meal per person 8,000 to 15,000 KRW.

Onsen & Nature: Beitou, Yangmingshan (Optional Routes)

Beitou Hot Springs

A hot spring district easily accessible from the city via MRT Red Line. Features coexistence of public baths and hotel-type hot springs, while the Geothermal Valley walking trail offers the charm of watching streams emit steam. Among the “Things to Do in Taipei,” this is a specialized course for fatigue recovery; allocate 2 to 3 hours in the afternoon.

  • Location/Transport: MRT Red Line ‘Beitou’ followed by transfer to ‘Xinbeitou’.
  • Fares: Public baths 2,000 to 6,000 KRW, private/hotel hot spring for two starts at 30,000 KRW.

Note

  • Each facility has varying requirements for swimwear/swim caps. Check entry regulations before visiting.

Yangmingshan National Park

Known for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and seasonal flowers. Cherry blossoms and rapeseed in spring and silver grass in autumn are especially beautiful. Accessible from the city by bus; remember to dress appropriately for the windy peaks.

  • Transport: Buses from Taipei Main Station/Shilin area.
  • Cost: The walks themselves are free (some hot spring facilities may have fees).

Themed Walks: Huashan 1914, Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, Sunny Hills

Huashan 1914 Creative Park

A former brewery turned into a complex cultural space featuring exhibitions, select shops, and cafes. If you enjoy trinkets and design culture, half a day is well spent here.

  • Location/Transport: Walk from MRT Blue Line ‘Zhongxiao Xinsheng’ station.
  • Cost: Free outdoors, exhibitions individually priced.

Songshan Cultural and Creative Park

A complex turned cultural space from an old tobacco factory, frequently hosting pop-ups and festivals. It’s convenient to combine shopping and exhibitions with the nearby CityLink Mall.

  • Location/Transport: MRT Green Line ‘Songshan’ station.
  • Cost: Free outdoors, exhibitions priced.

Another Pineapple Cake Spot

Taste and buy at local brand flagships or main stores to select the product that suits your taste. The packaging is excellent, making it suitable for gifting. Add a sweet shopping stop at the end of “Things to Do in Taipei.”

Booking Local Experiences

To save time queuing and fill up your itinerary, it’s efficient to pre-book major experiences and transportation tickets. Particularly for Taipei 101, Maokong Gondola, and Jiufen/Shifen (Pingxi) day tours, the weekend/peak season can be highly crowded.

Tip

  • Jiufen & Shifen Connections: Travel to ‘Ruifang’ by train (Taiwan Railway), then transfer via bus/taxi or use a tour vehicle. If you want to save time, a tour with a vehicle is convenient.

Budget, Currency Exchange, Discount Tips

  • Daily Food Expenses: 20,000 to 35,000 KRW for 2-3 local meals (including night market and snacks).
  • Transport: Primarily MRT/bus 6,000 to 10,000 KRW per day.
  • Admission & Experiences: 0 to 30,000 KRW per day (varies by itinerary).
  • Accommodation: 70,000 to 180,000 KRW per night depending on location and grade (varies during peak season).
  • Total Budget for 3 Days (excluding flights): Generally around 300,000 to 600,000 KRW per person.

Exchange small amounts of Korean won → New Taiwan Dollars first, then mix with card payments for convenience. A few establishments, like underground shops and night markets, prefer cash, so have some low denomination bills ready.

Tip

  • Tickets and tours may vary in price by day/time. If your schedule is flexible, select weekday daytime slots.

Accommodation Selection Guide

  • Around Taipei Main Station: Convenient for airport MRT, high-speed rail, train, and MRT transfers. Suitable for first-time visitors.
  • Zhongshan/Nanjing Fuxing: Dense with local cafes, bars, and restaurants, with enjoyable night strolls.
  • Ximending: Night activity-focused with abundant food. If sensitive to noise, rooms inside alleyways are recommended.
  • Da’an/Xinyi: Great for accessing 101 and shopping malls, with a high proportion of clean, modern hotels.
  • Beitou: Focused on hot spring hotels, suitable for relaxation itineraries.

Recommendation

  • Select accommodations close to the airport or train station for the first/last day, and those centered around night market/101 night routes for mid-days, for efficient travel routes.

Dining, Cafes, Alcohol

Traditional Taiwanese noodles (niu rou mian), lu rou fan, oyster omelets, and bubble tea are easily accessible. Cafe culture is well-developed with a uniformly high level of drip and latte quality. Bars and pubs have many options in the Zhongshan, East District, and Minsheng West Road areas. Keep an eye on the time to catch the last MRT (approximately around midnight) after a light drink.

Note

  • Clearly indicate any dairy/peanut allergies when ordering. English menus are fairly common.

Weather, Clothing, Safety

  • Weather: Frequent showers. A small umbrella, waterproof windbreaker recommended.
  • Clothing: Avoid overly exposed outfits when visiting temples and public institutions.
  • Safety: Overall, Taipei is quite safe, but take care of personal belongings at night markets and festival sites.

Sample Itinerary Breakdown

  • Day 1: Bopiliao—Longshan Temple—Dihua Street—Ximending at Night
  • Day 2: Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall—National Palace Museum—Shilin Night Market
  • Day 3: Xiangshan—Taipei 101—Maokong Gondola—Raohe Night Market

The above itinerary is structured to minimize travel time and match the rhythm of indoor mornings/outdoor afternoons and night markets. It captures the essentials of “Things to Do in Taipei” without being overly ambitious.

Essential Tips in a Q&A Format

  • Q. It’s my first visit, what should I see first? A. The Taipei 101 Observatory combined with Xiangshan offers an immediate perspective on both the modern skyline and natural landscape.
  • Q. What to do on a rainy day? A. Increase indoor activities like the National Palace Museum, Huashan 1914, or large bookstores and cafe lounges.
  • Q. If traveling with kids? A. The Taipei Zoo and Maokong Gondola, Ximending character shops, and the exciting elevator ride at the Taipei 101 Observatory are hits.
  • Q. Which night market is the best? A. Shilin is the largest, while Raohe is more straightforward. Both are worth visiting if you have the time.

Checklist

  • EasyCard or 1/2/3-day transport pass
  • Umbrella, waterproof jacket, and light sneakers
  • Converter adapter (110V, A/B type)
  • Small cash + card (including transport card top-up)
  • Prior booking: 101, gondola, day tours

Finalizing: Immediate Booking Links Collection

Even on a short trip, Taipei offers high satisfaction. To thoroughly enjoy “Things to Do in Taipei,” it’s a good idea to organize flights, accommodations, transportation, and admission tickets first. I recommend reserving the essentials via the following links, which I’ve left below for your convenience.

Adjust your itinerary for “Things to Do in Taipei” to fit your personal preferences based on this post’s routes and tips. Balance each day with indoor, outdoor, and night activities for a satisfying experience, focusing on MRT transportation to simplify routes. The charm of Taipei lies in its practicality—it’s enriching whether you travel light or with everything you can carry. May your journey to Taipei be such a trip.

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