Things to Do in Taipei: A First-Timer's List
Updated 2026-10-30. Written with AI assistance and checked against our editorial rules; entry rules and prices change, so confirm with the official source before you travel.
Taipei, a lively city in northern Taiwan, offers a mix of modern and traditional sights. Many visitors start in Ximending, a neighborhood known for shopping, street food and nightlife. From there, the metro makes other popular spots easy to reach.
Quick answer
Taipei blends old temples, big museums and green hills, so first-time visitors have plenty to choose from. Here are six top things to do:
- Explore Taipei's night markets: Visit Shilin Night Market or Raohe Street Night Market for local food, shopping and a busy evening crowd.
- Discover Taipei's temples and old streets: Wander through Longshan Temple and Xingtian Temple, then walk the restored Bopiliao Historical Block nearby.
- Hike Elephant Mountain: Enjoy wide views of the city from this short, popular trail.
- Visit the National Palace Museum: It holds one of the world's largest collections of Chinese art and artifacts.
- Relax in Beitou Hot Springs: Soak in natural hot spring water in the hills on the city's northern edge.
- Walk along the Tamsui River: Riverside parks and paths, such as those near Dadaocheng Wharf, are good for an easy evening stroll.
Top sights
Taipei 101 dominates the skyline and is the city's best-known modern landmark. Around it, you will find sights that show Taipei's history, culture and natural setting.
Explore Taipei's skyline
Visit Taipei 101, once the world's tallest building, and take in the views from its observation deck. The nearby Elephant Mountain offers a free view of the city, with the tower in the frame.
Cultural landmarks
The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is a grand monument with a large plaza and exhibits about Chiang's life. Longshan Temple, one of the city's oldest temples, draws visitors for its detailed architecture and busy atmosphere.
Natural wonders
Mountains and forests surround Taipei, so hiking is never far away. Beitou Hot Springs is a good choice for a relaxing soak.
- Walk the trails of Yangmingshan National Park, a volcanic area just north of the city.
- Visit the Taipei Zoo, home to giant pandas and many other animals, set against green hills.
- Explore Dadaocheng, a historic district with old shophouses, tea and dried-goods stores, and street food.
Taipei 101
Taipei 101 is a top stop for first-time visitors. The 101-story tower is a feat of engineering and a symbol of the modern city. Its main indoor observation deck is on the 89th floor.
Observation Deck
The deck gives wide views of the city. On a clear day, you can see across the Taipei Basin to the surrounding mountains.
Shopping and Dining
The mall at the base of the tower has luxury brands, restaurants and a food court with Taiwanese snacks.
- Ride one of the high-speed elevators up to the observation deck
- Browse the Taipei 101 Mall for shopping and dining
- Try local dishes in the food court
- Walk around the Xinyi district, Taipei's modern business and shopping area
- Take a photo of the tower at sunset
National Palace Museum
The National Palace Museum, in the Shilin district, holds one of the world's largest collections of Chinese art and artifacts. Its collection numbers in the hundreds of thousands of objects, so only part of it is on show at any time. You can spend hours in galleries of ceramics, paintings, calligraphy and jade.
The best-known piece is the Jadeite Cabbage, a carved jade sculpture shaped like a head of bok choy. Other highlights include ancient bronze ritual vessels and paintings from the Ming and Qing dynasties.
- Plan ahead to avoid crowds, especially in busy travel seasons. Early morning or later afternoon is often quieter.
- Use an audio guide to learn more about key pieces.
- Visit Zhishan Garden next to the museum, a calm, classical Chinese-style garden.
Longshan Temple
Longshan Temple in the Wanhua district is one of Taipei's most famous temples and draws large crowds. It is a good place to see daily worship and the city's spiritual life. Look for its ornate roofs, detailed carvings and the busy streets around it.
History and Significance
Settlers from Fujian founded Longshan Temple during the Qing era, and it has been rebuilt several times. The main hall honors Guanyin, the Buddhist figure of mercy. Other halls honor many folk deities, including Mazu, the patron of sailors and fishermen.
Street Life
Busy streets and markets surround the temple. You can try Taiwanese snacks such as oyster omelets and stinky tofu, or browse stalls selling crafts and small gifts.
- Watch worshippers leave offerings and light incense in the courtyard
- Explore the many shrines, each honoring a different deity
- Walk to the nearby Bopiliao Historical Block to see restored old streets
- Try local snacks at the stalls around the temple
- Visit during a festival, when the temple is especially lively
Elephant Mountain
Elephant Mountain, also called Xiangshan, is a popular hike with wide views of the skyline. It is one of a group of hills named after animals.
Hike to the summit
The trail is short but steep, with many stone steps. Most people reach the main viewing points in about 20 to 30 minutes. From the top, Taipei 101 rises right in front of you, with the city and mountains beyond. Expect plenty of photographers at the best spots.
Photography opportunities
- Bring a camera or phone for the views
- Expect crowds at popular rocks and platforms, especially at sunset
- Go early in the morning for fewer people
- Check the weather first, as fog or haze can block the view
- Bring water, since the steps are steep
If you are still planning your trip, see Best Time to Book Flights: A Practical Planning Guide for tips.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
This landmark is a good stop for anyone interested in Taiwan's history. The white hall with a blue roof stands at the end of Liberty Square, a large plaza framed by the National Theater and National Concert Hall.
History and Significance
The hall honors Chiang Kai-shek, who led the Republic of China government in Taiwan for many years. Its design draws on traditional Chinese architecture.
Explore the Hall
- Visit the exhibits on the lower floors about Chiang's life
- Watch the changing of the guard in the main hall, held on the hour during opening times
- Walk around the gardens and ponds on the grounds
- Look out for events at the theater and concert hall on the square
- Come in the evening, when the buildings are lit up
Frequently asked questions
What are the best night markets in Taipei?
Shilin Night Market is the largest and best known. Raohe Street Night Market is smaller and easy to walk end to end. Both are great for street food and souvenirs.
What are the top things to do in Taipei for families?
Families often enjoy the Taipei Zoo, the National Palace Museum and an easy walk along the riverside parks.
Can I visit Taipei on a budget?
Yes. Many top sights are free, including Longshan Temple, the Elephant Mountain trail and the grounds of the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. Night market snacks are also cheap.
What is the best time to visit Taipei?
Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) usually bring the most comfortable weather. Summer is hot and humid, with a chance of typhoons.
How do I get around Taipei?
The Taipei Metro (MRT) is clean, fast and reaches most sights. Buses fill the gaps. A rechargeable EasyCard works on both.
What are the must-try foods in Taipei?
Try braised pork rice, oyster omelets, stinky tofu, pepper buns and bubble tea. You will find them at night markets and street stalls.
What are some interesting things to do in Taipei city?
Visit Longshan Temple, explore the National Palace Museum, and hike Elephant Mountain for wide views of the city.
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