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city skyline during night time

Taiwan · duration itinerary

Taipei 2 weeks

Taipei, a vibrant metropolis where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge modernity, offers an unforgettable two-week adventure. This city truly shines with its incredible food scene, from Michelin-starred restaurants to bustling night markets offering affordable delicacies like gua bao and oyster omelets. Beyond the culinary delights, explore the lush green spaces of Yangmingshan National Park, delve into the rich history at the National Palace Museum, and soak in the panoramic city views from Taipei 101. Consider basing yourself in Ximending for its youthful energy, trendy shops, and accessibility to public transport, or Da'an for a more sophisticated vibe with upscale boutiques and charming cafes. An insider truth is that many of the most authentic and delicious street food stalls are often found outside the main tourist-heavy night markets, tucked away in smaller neighborhood alleys, so don't be afraid to wander.

Photo by Timo Volz on Unsplash

Your 14-day plan

PaceStandard

This 14-day itinerary offers a balanced exploration of Taipei, blending iconic landmarks with local experiences. You'll savor diverse culinary delights from bustling night markets to renowned restaurants, immerse yourselves in rich cultural heritage through museums and historic districts, and enjoy modern Taipei's vibrant shopping and entertainment scene. Day trips to Jiufen, Shifen, and the breathtaking Taroko Gorge provide unforgettable natural and cultural excursions.

Day 1 · Taipei

Arrival and Ximending Immersion

$35–$75
  1. Afternoon
    ~60 min
    Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)
    transport hub

    Taipei's main international gateway. Efficient transport links to the city center.

    • Purchase an EasyCard for convenient public transport.
  2. Afternoon
    ~60 min
    Hotel Check-in
    activity

    Settle into your accommodation in Taipei.

    Take the Airport MRT or a taxi to your hotel.
  3. Evening
    ~180 min
    Ximending
    neighborhood

    Taipei's vibrant youth district, often called the 'Shibuya of Taipei'. It's a hub for shopping, street food, and entertainment.

    • Explore the side alleys for unique boutiques.
    • Catch a street performance.
  4. Evening
    ~45 min
    Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodles
    restaurant

    A legendary Ximending spot famous for its thin, soupy noodles with offal. Expect a line, but it moves quickly.

    • Order extra broth.
    • Eat standing up like a local.
Day 2 · Taipei

Historic Taipei and Culinary Delights

$45–$90
  1. Morning
    ~180 min
    National Palace Museum
    museum

    Home to an unparalleled collection of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts and artworks, including the Jadeite Cabbage and the Meat-shaped Stone.

    • Arrive early to avoid crowds.
    • Consider an audio guide.
  2. Midday
    ~60 min
    Shilin Official Residence
    landmark

    The former residence of Chiang Kai-shek and his wife, Soong Mei-ling. It features beautiful gardens and a glimpse into their lives.

    Short bus or taxi ride from the National Palace Museum.
  3. Afternoon
    ~90 min
    Dihua Street
    neighborhood

    A historic street known for its traditional shops selling dried goods, herbs, fabrics, and religious items. It's especially lively during Lunar New Year.

    • Sample some local tea.
    • Look for unique souvenirs.
  4. Evening
    ~120 min
    Raohe Street Night Market
    shopping

    One of Taipei's oldest and most famous night markets, offering a vast array of local delicacies, snacks, and goods.

    • Don't miss the Fuzhou Pepper Buns (Hújiāo bǐng).
    • Try the oyster omelet.
Day 3 · Taipei

Modern Taipei and Panoramic Views

$75–$145
  1. Morning
    ~90 min
    Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
    landmark

    An impressive monument dedicated to the former president, featuring a vast plaza, gardens, and the National Theater and Concert Hall.

    • Witness the changing of the guard ceremony.
  2. Midday
    ~120 min
    Yongkang Street
    neighborhood

    A charming street renowned for its independent boutiques, artisan shops, and diverse culinary scene, including famous soup dumplings.

    • Try the mango shaved ice at Smoothie House.
    • Explore the many small cafes.
  3. Afternoon
    ~90 min
    Taipei 101
    viewpoint

    Once the world's tallest building, this iconic skyscraper offers stunning panoramic views of the city from its observatory decks.

    • Book tickets online in advance.
    • Visit just before sunset for day and night views.
  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Din Tai Fung (Taipei 101 branch)
    restaurant

    The original home of the world-famous xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). Expect a wait, but the delicate dumplings are worth it.

    • Make a reservation if possible.
    • Try the truffle oil xiaolongbao.
Day 4 · Taipei

Art, Culture, and Local Flavors

$60–$130
  1. Morning
    ~120 min
    Huashan 1914 Creative Park
    activity

    A former winery transformed into a vibrant cultural hub featuring art installations, exhibition spaces, independent shops, and performance venues.

    • Check the schedule for temporary exhibitions or performances.
    • Enjoy a coffee at one of the stylish cafes.
  2. Midday
    ~90 min
    Linjiang Street Night Market (Tonghua)
    shopping

    A more local and less crowded night market compared to Raohe, offering a wide variety of delicious and affordable street food.

    • Try the grilled squid.
    • Sample the stinky tofu if you're adventurous.
  3. Afternoon
    ~60 min
    Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall
    landmark

    A monument to the Republic of China's founder, offering a great view of Taipei 101 and housing exhibits on Sun Yat-sen's life.

  4. Evening
    ~120 min
    Addiction Aquatic Development
    restaurant

    A stylish seafood market and restaurant complex where you can select fresh seafood and have it prepared to your liking.

    • Great for sashimi and grilled seafood.
    • Enjoy a drink at the bar area.
Day 5 · Taipei

Day Trip to Jiufen and Shifen

$40–$90
  1. Morning
    ~180 min
    Jiufen Old Street
    neighborhood

    A charming mountainside town with narrow alleyways, traditional teahouses, and stunning sea views, rumored to have inspired Hayao Miyazaki's 'Spirited Away'.

    • Visit the A-Mei Teahouse for iconic views.
    • Try the taro balls.
  2. Midday
    ~60 min
    Shifen Waterfall
    park

    Known as the 'Niagara of Taiwan', this impressive waterfall offers a beautiful natural spectacle.

    Travel between Jiufen and Shifen via local bus or taxi.
  3. Afternoon
    ~90 min
    Shifen Old Street
    neighborhood

    Famous for its railway tracks running through the middle of the street, where visitors can release sky lanterns with wishes.

    • Write your wishes on a lantern before releasing.
    • Be mindful of the trains.
  4. Evening
    ~60 min
    Local Restaurant in Ruifang or Pingxi
    restaurant

    Enjoy a simple, authentic Taiwanese meal in a local eatery before returning to Taipei.

Day 6 · Taipei

Artistic Exploration and Local Markets

$65–$135
  1. Morning
    ~120 min
    Songshan Cultural and Creative Park
    activity

    A former tobacco factory transformed into a hub for design, art, and cultural activities, featuring shops, galleries, and a large pond.

    • Visit the Eslite Spectrum store within the park.
    • Attend a workshop if available.
  2. Midday
    ~90 min
    TaipeiEYE
    activity

    Experience traditional Taiwanese performing arts, including folk dances, opera, and puppetry, in a dedicated performance venue.

    • Performances are usually held in the evening, adjust schedule accordingly.
    • Check their website for showtimes.
  3. Afternoon
    ~120 min
    Gongguan Shopping District
    shopping

    A bustling area popular with students, offering a wide range of affordable clothing, accessories, bookstores, and street food.

  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Ningxia Night Market
    shopping

    Known for its focus on traditional Taiwanese snacks and delicacies, this market is a great place to sample authentic flavors.

    • Try the oyster omelets and wheel cakes.
    • Look for the 'traditional snacks' section.
Day 7 · Taipei

Nature Escape and Local Life

$40–$85
  1. Morning
    ~240 min
    Yangmingshan National Park
    park

    A stunning volcanic mountain park offering hiking trails, hot springs, flower viewing (seasonal), and panoramic views of Taipei.

    • Wear comfortable shoes.
    • Check weather conditions before visiting.
  2. Midday
    ~60 min
    Beitou Hot Springs Museum
    museum

    Located in the historic Beitou Hot Spring area, this museum is housed in a former public bathhouse and details the history of the region's springs.

    Accessible via MRT from Yangmingshan base or directly from Taipei.
  3. Afternoon
    ~45 min
    Thermal Valley (Hell Valley)
    park

    A scenic hot spring area in Beitou known for its steaming vents and sulfuric fumes, creating a unique, otherworldly landscape.

  4. Evening
    ~75 min
    Dinner in Beitou or back in Shilin
    restaurant

    Enjoy a relaxing dinner after a day exploring nature and hot springs. Shilin offers more variety if returning that way.

Day 8 · Taipei

Shopping Spree and Local Bites

$80–$180
  1. Morning
    ~180 min
    Zhongxiao Dunhua Shopping District
    shopping

    A trendy and upscale shopping area known for its designer boutiques, department stores, and stylish cafes.

    • Explore the side streets for unique finds.
    • Many international brands are present.
  2. Midday
    ~60 min
    Lunch at a local eatery in Zhongxiao Dunhua
    restaurant

    Discover diverse dining options ranging from casual noodle shops to themed cafes in this popular district.

  3. Afternoon
    ~120 min
    Eslite Spectrum Songyan Store
    shopping

    A massive bookstore complex that also houses a vibrant marketplace with crafts, fashion, and food stalls, located within the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park.

    • Great for unique souvenirs and gifts.
    • Enjoy the atmosphere and diverse offerings.
  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Various street food stalls
    shopping

    Explore various street food options around your accommodation or a preferred night market for a casual dinner.

Day 9 · Taipei

Cultural Heritage and Artistic Exploration

$40–$85
  1. Morning
    ~90 min
    National Taiwan Museum
    museum

    Taiwan's oldest public museum, featuring exhibits on natural history, anthropology, and Taiwanese history.

  2. Midday
    ~60 min
    Presidential Office Building
    landmark

    A historical landmark that served as the seat of government during Japanese rule and now houses the office of the President. Tours are available on select days.

    • Check the official website for tour availability and booking.
    • Admire the impressive architecture.
  3. Afternoon
    ~90 min
    Bopiliao Historic Block
    neighborhood

    A beautifully preserved historical area featuring traditional Qing Dynasty architecture, now home to museums and cultural spaces.

  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Xinyi District Restaurants
    restaurant

    Explore the modern Xinyi district for a wide array of dining options, from casual eateries to upscale international cuisine.

Day 10 · Taipei

Taipei's Green Spaces and Local Markets

$40–$90
  1. Morning
    ~90 min
    Daan Forest Park
    park

    Taipei's 'lungs', a large urban park offering walking paths, playgrounds, an amphitheater, and a peaceful escape from the city bustle.

    • Great for people-watching.
    • Enjoy a leisurely stroll or a picnic.
  2. Midday
    ~75 min
    Chun Shui Tang (Original Store)
    restaurant

    The birthplace of bubble tea! Enjoy their signature drink along with a variety of Taiwanese dishes in a comfortable setting.

    • Order the classic pearl milk tea.
    • Try their pot-stickers.
  3. Afternoon
    ~180 min
    Taipei Zoo
    activity

    Home to a diverse range of animals, including giant pandas, koalas, and various native Taiwanese species. It's a large, well-maintained zoo.

    • Take the Maokong Gondola to reach the zoo.
    • Allocate ample time as it's quite extensive.
  4. Evening
    ~120 min
    Maokong Gondola and Tea Houses
    viewpoint

    Ride the scenic gondola up to Maokong, a tea-growing region offering stunning night views of Taipei and numerous traditional tea houses.

    • Enjoy a cup of locally grown Tieguanyin tea.
    • The night view is spectacular.
Day 11 · Taipei

Shopping, Culture, and Local Delicacies

$50–$100
  1. Morning
    ~90 min
    Taipei Creative Park (formerly Taipei Flower Market)
    shopping

    While no longer a flower market, this area has transformed into a creative hub with independent shops, cafes, and art studios.

  2. Midday
    ~60 min
    Lunch at a local market or eatery
    restaurant

    Explore the food stalls around the creative park or a nearby local market for authentic and affordable Taiwanese cuisine.

  3. Afternoon
    ~90 min
    Museum of Contemporary Art Taipei (MOCA Taipei)
    museum

    Dedicated to contemporary art, MOCA Taipei hosts rotating exhibitions by local and international artists.

    • Check their website for current exhibitions.
  4. Evening
    ~120 min
    Shilin Night Market
    shopping

    Revisit one of Taipei's most famous night markets for a final taste of its diverse street food offerings and shopping opportunities.

    • Try the large fried chicken cutlet.
    • Consider buying some local snacks to take back.
Day 12 · Taipei

Day Trip to Taroko Gorge (Hualien)

$130–$220
  1. Morning
    ~120 min
    High-Speed Rail to Hualien
    transport hub

    Take an early high-speed train from Taipei to Hualien, the gateway to Taroko National Park.

    • Book tickets in advance, especially on weekends.
  2. Midday
    ~300 min
    Taroko Gorge National Park
    park

    A magnificent marble canyon with stunning cliffs, hiking trails, and the Liwu River. Key sights include Swallow Grotto, Tunnel of Nine Turns, and Eternal Spring Shrine.

    • Hire a local driver/guide or join a tour for efficient exploration.
    • Wear sturdy shoes and bring water.
  3. Evening
    ~60 min
    Dinner in Hualien City
    restaurant

    Enjoy fresh seafood or local specialties in Hualien before returning to Taipei.

  4. Night
    ~120 min
    High-Speed Rail back to Taipei
    transport hub

    Return to Taipei after a long but rewarding day trip.

Day 13 · Taipei

Leisurely Exploration and Souvenir Shopping

$75–$165
  1. Morning
    ~90 min
    Taipei Botanical Garden
    park

    A peaceful oasis featuring diverse plant collections, including a beautiful lotus pond and a Japanese-style garden.

  2. Midday
    ~90 min
    Nanmen Market
    shopping

    A bustling traditional market offering a wide array of fresh produce, dried goods, local snacks, and prepared foods. Great for experiencing local life.

    • Sample some of the local delicacies.
    • Look for souvenirs like tea or pineapple cakes.
  3. Afternoon
    ~120 min
    Taipei City Mall
    shopping

    A large underground shopping complex offering a variety of goods, including clothing, electronics, and souvenirs, conveniently located near Taipei Main Station.

  4. Evening
    ~90 min
    Farewell Dinner
    restaurant

    Choose a restaurant in an area you particularly enjoyed for a final memorable meal in Taipei.

Day 14 · Taipei

Departure

$20–$40
  1. Morning
    ~60 min
    Last-minute souvenir shopping or cafe visit
    shopping

    Grab any last-minute gifts or enjoy a final Taiwanese breakfast/coffee.

  2. Midday
    ~30 min
    Hotel Check-out
    activity

    Complete your check-out procedures from your accommodation.

  3. Afternoon
    ~120 min
    Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)
    transport hub

    Head to the airport for your departure flight.

    • Allow ample time for check-in and security.

Insider tips

  • Utilize Taipei's efficient MRT system with an EasyCard for easy travel.
  • Don't be afraid to try street food; it's a highlight of Taipei's culinary scene.
  • Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases, though English is widely understood in tourist areas.
  • Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
  • Book popular attractions and high-speed rail tickets in advance.

Packing highlights

  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Lightweight, breathable clothing
  • Rain jacket or umbrella (especially during shoulder seasons)
  • Adapter for Taiwanese power outlets (Type A and B)
  • Portable power bank
  • Sunscreen and hat

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