Things to do in Taipei
If it’s your first time in Taiwan, chances are Taipei is already on your itinerary. The capital is possibly best known for its iconic Taipei 101 building and bustling night markets that fill the streets. But of course, it’s not just another metropolis of skyscrapers.
We’ve done the legwork and sieved out the best things to do in Taipei. Yes, we’ve included must-visit attractions like Jiufen and sky lanterns at Pingxi, but we’ve also included lesser-known ones like a container market and former prison dormitory.
The current exchange rate is TWD10 = ~S$0.41 as of 11th April 2025.
1. Starbucks at Fulong Beach
Unique Starbucks store with killer views
Image credit: pan Pan via Google Maps
It’s only natural that when you’re in Taiwan, you’d want to drink copious cups of bubble tea. After all, boba did originate here, so we totally understand the raised eyebrows when you see Starbucks on this list. But hear us out: Taipei has a couple of unique Starbucks outlets that are worth checking out. Plus, it doesn’t hurt that these also come with killer views.
Image credit: stefanie Lin (林奕青) via Google Maps
For somewhere with less of a crowd and easier access, check out the Starbucks located at Fulong Beach. This outlet has large windows that face the beach and open sea. If you plan your trip for summer, you’ll even be able to catch sand sculptors building impressive structures right in front of you.
Sign Up with TSL Connect
2. Rongjin Gorgeous Time
Cute cafes housed in a former prison
Original prison wall from the Qing Dynasty.
Image credit: @rongjin167 via Instagram
Just like how the Yellow Ribbon Project believes in second chances for former prisoners, Rongjin Gorgeous Time is breathing new life into former prison quarters. The building has been around since the Qing Dynasty in 1896, first to house inmates, then public officials in the 1950s.
Some walls have been knocked down and replaced with glass, but the original structure of the prison remains.
Image credit: @rongjin167 via Instagram
Today, it’s been converted into a small retail building where you can shop for trinkets or stop by a cafe for a drink and a bite. Much of the original structures have been preserved, such as the original prison wall and Japanese-influenced architecture. You can find out more about the history of the place at the museum on the first floor.
3. Taipei Music Center
Croon to nostalgic Mandopop
Jay Chou, S.H.E, and Mayday. These names will no doubt be familiar to those of us who frequent karaoke joints. Now, you can find out more about the origins of popular Taiwanese singers and bands at the Taipei Music Center.
Image credit: Taipei Music Center
In an exhibit that spans 3 floors, you’ll trace the history of Taiwanese music from as early as the 1930s. See if you can spot household names like Eric Chou and Show Lo, as well as legends from your parents’ generation like Teresa Teng and Jacky Cheung. Their stories and music are displayed in interactive displays that are also IG-worthy photo ops.
AR concert hall.
Image credit: Taipei Music Center
Even if you’re not a huge fan of Mandopop, the AR concert experience might just change all that. It’ll feel like you’re in the VIP section of musical productions by big names like Hebe Tien and JJ Lin once you step into the concert hall and see their images projected onto 360-degree screens.
4. House of Broken Hearts
Stories of love, breakup advice & touching quotes
Image credit: 凌墨 via Google Maps
If you’ve ever nursed a bruised heart with sad songs and ice cream, you’ll feel right at home at the House of Broken Hearts in Tamsui. In case you didn’t know, the museum is located in the same district as Lover’s Bridge – pretty ironic, we must say.
Inside, the walls are completely plastered with sticky notes left behind by fellow heartbroken souls. Some are painfully raw, others hilariously unhinged, but all of them tell stories of love, loss, and lingering “what ifs.”
Image adapted from: 失戀故事博物館 via Google Maps
Spot breakup advice that ranges from “dump him” energy to full-blown Shakespearean tragedy. A quote that hits right in the feels reads: “I delivered my heart to the wrong address, can you return it to me now?” Oof.
Translates to “I hope you write your stories here instead of keeping them in your heart.”
Image credit: – via Google Maps
For the brave souls, consider leaving your own sticky note behind. Maybe putting pen to paper will be your first step to moving on from that toxic ex or ghosting situationship.
5. Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market
Dinner with views of the Tamsui River
You can’t really call yourself a Singaporean if you’re not a fan of night markets. To ensure your red passport doesn’t get revoked even in Taipei, make your way to the Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market.
Image credit: Let’s Play TW
Shipping containers have been converted into shops that sell clothing and knick-knacks. There’s also no shortage of cafes here, many of which sell an assortment of rainbow-coloured beverages and snacks.
Image adapted from: Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market Facebook
Our recommendation: take a walk around and grab small bites like grilled seafood and veggies from Yakitori House 29 and slices of pizza hot from the oven at Pizza Lab. Once you’ve loaded up on food, get a seat by the pier to enjoy the gentle breeze and calming views of the Tamsui River.
6. Aircraft Viewing Alley
Snap close-up photos of planes
Image credit: @sozoobee via Instagram
Look up in the sky – it’s not a bird, and it’s definitely not Superman. But that is a plane swooping over your head at Aircraft Viewing Alley just outside Taipei Songshan Airport. Ready your camera because this will be a Kodak moment you’re not going to get anywhere else in Taiwan.
Image credit: @yuming0411 via Instagram
The publicly accessible road passes by Taiwan’s secondary airport that mainly serves domestic flights. You’ll easily spot low-flying planes as they prepare to touch down on the nearby runway. Try looking out for planes from airlines like Eva Air and All Nippon Airways – they often have limited edition livery featuring Pokémon and Sanrio Characters.
7. Zhongshan District
Thrift for branded vintage clothes
Yes, the wholesale garment market Wufenpu still exists in Taipei. But for a more sustainable option to retail therapy, thrifting at Zhongshan District might be your best bet. Right at Exit 4 of Zhongshan Metro Station are several second-hand clothing stores.
Image credit: A Prank Dolly
You won’t find a mish-mash of outdated fast fashion here, however. Many of these stores source the good stuff, like vintage streetwear from brands such as Nike, Ralph Lauren, and Levi’s.
Image credit: Banana Cats
Stores that come highly recommended by local thrifters include A Prank Dolly and Banana Cats. You’ll be able to get your hands on authentic, vintage sukajan (Japanese bomber jackets), as well as upcycled bags and accessories from the likes of Dior, Burberry, and Sisley.
8. Wonder.land
Dine on a hillside overlooking Taipei
If this isn’t your first rodeo in Taipei, you’ll already know that climbing up Mount Elephant or Taipei 101 will afford you gorgeous views of the city. We’ll let you in on a secret: Wonder.land is a restaurant on Mount Yangmingshan you can visit for banging vistas too.
Image credit: Alex青鳥（鶄）via Google Maps
You’ll need to spend a minimum of TWD350/pax (~S$14.31) to enjoy the scenery. Thankfully, that’s easily done if you dine here. You can fill up on Thai-Western dishes like Green Papaya Salad (TWD300, ~S$12.26) or Garlic Rib Steak Linguine (TWD480, ~S$19.62) at the indoor restaurant, then move out to the outdoor area to enjoy the day beds and loungers.
You can get a whole hotpot meal from TWD680 (~S$27.80) here as well.
Image credit: Ling via Google Maps
Pro tip: There’s a dining limit of 2 hours per party. Plan to come just as the resto opens at 5pm on weekdays, which will almost guarantee you a front-row seat at the daybeds. You’ll get to see Taipei City change from day to night within your dining time.
9. Houtong Cat Village
Play with hundreds of stray cats
Purr-adise is a lot closer than you think. In fact, it’s just an hour away from Taipei Main Station at Houtong Cat Village, home to hundreds of stray kitties. Houtong used to be a coal mining village before this place was overrun by cats. Then a resident started posting about the cats on the internet in 2008, which attracted fellow cat lovers to the area.
Image credit: @houtongcatvillage via Instagram
You’ll get your selfie moment with these felines at just about every corner. They’re friendly and easy to win over – just feed them treats you can easily get at any store in the village. Just be considerate in clearing up messes to keep the place clean.
Image credit: @life_is_all_about_me via Instagram
If you can’t get enough of cats, you can also spot the pointed ears, tiny paw prints, and curly tails in shops and signboards. There are cat-themed cafes and souvenir shops selling kitty-imprinted trinkets all around.
10. Din Tai Fung at Xinyi Street
First Din Tai Fung restaurant in the world
Din Tai Fung needs no introduction. The restaurant, famed for its juicy soup dumplings and fragrant fried rice, has nearly 200 outlets all across Singapore and the rest of the world. And now, here’s your chance to visit Restaurant 0.
Image credit: @photographer_in_finance via Instagram
The original Din Tai Fung is located at Xinyi Street and is still open for business for takeaway orders only. The insides have been modernised since its founding in 1972, but there are traces of its heritage all around. See if you can spot the signboard that still bears the restaurant’s original name in Chinese calligraphy: “Din Tai Fung Oil Shop”.
Spicy beef tripe.
Image credit: Din Tai Fung
Take a good look at the menu when you’re there, as there are items here that are exclusive to Taiwan. Locals recommend the umami-rich Truffle and Mushroom Soup (TWD240, ~S$9.81) and Spicy Beef Tripe (TWD200, ~S$8.18) as must-orders on top of an order of soup dumplings.
11. Jiufen Old Street
Known as the Santorini of Taiwan
Many would have heard of Jiufen, but poke your head around nooks and crannies and you’ll be surprised at the food you’ll find beyond the usual tea houses that overlook the mountains and sea.
This place has a surprising number of dessert specialties that go well with the slightly bitter Taiwanese tea. A must-try for first-timers is the handmade taro balls from Grandma Lai’s Sweet Taro Balls, which are served in an icy cold dessert soup.
Image credit: 嘉蓉王 via Google Maps
There’s also Dorayaki Ice Cream Shop that sells Doraemon’s favourite food. No prizes for guessing what it is, but you can get it filled with all kinds of ice cream flavours here.
Image credit: Edward Chen via Google Maps
Jiufen is known to be quite humid and warm throughout the year. To keep cool, you can wash all you’ve scarfed down with iced coffee. Although Jiufen is known for its tea houses, many also serve coffee to meet demand. CHLIV is one such shop that sells gourmet brews.
12. New Taipei Gold Museum
Visit a gold mine & touch real gold
Image credit: New Taipei Gold Museum
These gold mines that were once prosperous during Japanese colonialism in the 1900s have now been turned into museums for the public. The New Taipei Gold Museum would be an ideal place for learning if you want to know more about the industry, or even just to touch real gold.
Book a ticket to the New Taipei Gold Museum.
13. Golden Waterfall
Naturally formed waterfall with magnificent views
Image credit: 林秋 via Google Maps
All that glitters isn’t gold, but the Golden Waterfall actually glistens and sparkles in the sunlight. There’s a scientific explanation for its attractive physical appearance. Though the gold and copper mines are no longer operational, the rain that seeped into these mines amalgamates with the metal deposits. The chemical reactions result in this stunning coppery Golden Waterfall.
14. Yin Yang Sea
Famous for its striking contrast
Image credit: 藍天 via Google Maps
Right beside the Golden Waterfall is the Yin Yang Sea. The physical phenomenon of this sea can be translated literally from its name – the intense contrast between the golden yellow water at the bay and the sparkling blue water from the endless sea.
Although many believe that the contrast is a result of the mining of gold from the aforementioned factories, it is actually a natural runoff from a geological feature nearby that contains large amounts of iron pyrite.
15. Keelung Mountain
Go on a hike & be rewarded with breathtaking views
Image credit: Josey Race via Google Maps
A pregnant lady, a bird cage and King Kong. Yes, those are the different optical illusions you can get from viewing a single mountain.
588m above sea level, Keelung Mountain is an extinct volcano with a panoramic top view. The view from the foot of the mountain is picturesque, but if you want a breathtaking view, take a 45-minute hike to the top.
16. Maokong Mountain
Sip tea at sunset
If you’re a sucker for sunsets, Maokong Mountain has great views. Thankfully, there’s no need to hike up the mountain to see them – there’s a gondola for that. The cable car starts at Taipei Zoo station and then winds up to the peak of the mountain.
Image credit: @sheila870212 via Instagram
To escape the immense heat and for golden hour views, go up in the evening before sunset. You can also opt for the Crystal Cabin, which is a glass-floored gondola so you can see what’s going on below your feet.
Image credit: @merryjourneyy via Instagram
At the top of Maokong Mountain, you will find many hidden tea houses along the winding lanes.
Book tickets for the Maokong Gondola.
17. Lungshan Temple
Built during the Qing Dynasty
Image credit: Go Mo via Google Maps
Lungshan Temple is not a multi-storey majestic attraction. However, it is one of the many places you must visit when you’re in Taipei City, offering you a glimpse of the daily religious life of some Taiwanese locals. It’s the place to be to see tradition and modernity come together.
It is heartening to see how this temple, built in the 5th year of the Qing Dynasty, is still part of the fast-moving 21st century, retaining much of its folk art and culture.
18. Shifen Old Street
Watch sky lanterns floating above
Image credit: @victor.twk via Instagram
If you are a fan of old-school romance films such as You Are the Apple of My Eye, this is the place you should be. It’s filled with groups of teenagers and lovers with high hopes and ambitious dreams, so look up and you’ll see sky lanterns hovering above.
Image credit: Willy Tsai via Google Maps
Don’t just be mesmerised by the sky lanterns. Take a walk along the shops by the train tracks – there are some vintage and themed shops that you will want to stop by.
19. Shifen Waterfall
See Taiwan’s Niagara Falls
Those Chinese watercolour paintings of scenic landscapes are a reality at Shifen Waterfall. While it’s not the tallest waterfall in the country, its breadth of 40m across makes it the broadest one in Taiwan.
Image credit: 吳金蓮（May）via Google Maps
The area is easily accessible from Shifen Old Street – just look out for the signs that will point you in the right direction. If you’re lost, look out for the suspension bridges and follow that path. You’ll eventually end up at the observation decks where you’ll have a full-on view of the waterfalls.
20. PingXi Old Street
Street food, souvenirs & sky lanterns
PingXi Old Street is special for its unique architecture and design. Its marketplace is built through a hill, with a train track going overhead in the middle of the village.
Image credit: @katephan91 via Instagram
While Shifen Old Street is known for its sky lanterns, Pingxi is less crowded and touristy. It’s much easier to get a clear shot of the floating sky lanterns without a throng of tourists in the background.
21. Yangmingshan National Park
Explore 10 different hiking trails
The mention of Yangmingshan National Park brings about associations to relaxation, recuperation and adventure. Lined with hot springs along the mountain, city dwellers often take day trips to soak their bodies in milky sulphuric baths and rest their eyes on miles of luscious green hills.
On the Juansi Waterfall Trail.
Image credit: @1010jenny via Instagram
For hikers, trekking up Yangmingshan will be a dream, as it has 10 different trails that range in difficulty. Beginners can start with the Juansi Waterfall Trail, a gentle 1-hour trail that leads you past Juansi towards Beitou, the town famous for its hot springs.
3 peaks of Mount Datun.
Image credit: @eddie.yen via Instagram
A bigger challenge would be the climb to Mount Datun, an active volcano. Prior experience in hiking is recommended, as you’ll need a moderate fitness level and proper equipment like poles and shoes as you make your way up. The trail takes about 6 hours to complete, but you’ll get to ascend all 3 peaks.
22. Michelin-rated food stalls
Munch on must-try dishes at lesser-known night markets
No trip to Taipei would be complete without at least a visit to a night market. You might’ve already visited the more popular ones like Ximending, Shilin Night Market, and Raohe Night Market, but there are plenty more to add to your list – especially if you’re looking for good eats.
Fang Chia Chicken Rice.
Image credit: @mia_eating_food via Instagram
Foodies – make a beeline first for Ningxia Night Market. Its size may pale in comparison to Shilin, but in its short 150m stretch are 3 stalls that have won the Michelin Bib Gourmand: Fang Chia Chicken Rice, Rong’s Pork Liver, and Liu Yu Zi.
Taro balls from Liu Yu Zi.
Image credit: @everydayrestaurants via Instagram
Each stall sells simple dishes done well, such as shredded chicken on a sesame oil-flavoured bed of rice (TWD50, ~S$2.04), nourishing bowls of pork liver soup (TWD70, ~S$2.86), and deep-fried taro balls (TWD25/piece, ~S$1.02).
Each pork belly bun is topped with crushed peanuts and pickled mustard greens.
Image credit: @ychang36 via Instagram
You’ll also find 2 Michelin Bib Gourmand stalls at Gongguan Night Market. Lan Jia Gua Bao is one of them, and it sells pork belly buns. Each will set you back only TWD70 (~S$2.86), but be prepared to queue to get your hands on one. The other stall is Hsiung Chi Scallion Pancake, which sells flaky pancakes (from TWD40, ~S$1.63) topped with your choice of cheese, ham, and corn.
Hsiung Chi Scallion Pancake.
Image credit: @cccchhhhuuuu_eat via Instagram
Don’t be too bogged down by awards – most of these food stalls in both markets see snaking queues filled with locals. If anything, that’s testament enough to the delectable goodies available at these night markets.
Where to stay in Taipei
Staying in boutique hotels in Taipei is a go-to move for travellers who want a stylish yet affordable stay. With Insta-worthy decor and warm, personal service, they’re a cosy step up from your usual hotel chain. Here are some boutique stays worth checking out.
1. Roaders Plus Hotel
Image adapted from: Roaders Plus Hotel
With a ball pit, carousel, and candy station, it wouldn’t surprise us if you thought Roaders Plus Hotel was a carnival you just walked into. But that’s just a couple of the amenities you’ll find at this accommodation.
Image credit: Roaders Plus Hotel
There’s more fun for guests once you’re checked in. The spacious lobby has a glamping setup with picnic tables where you can watch movies for free daily and Instagrammable backdrops with retro cars to take pics in.
Image credit: Roaders Plus Hotel
The hotel rooms aren’t themed like a carnival, but they are modernly appointed with plush beds, round mirrors, and darkwood furniture.
Book a stay at Roaders Plus Hotel (from S$132.72/night).
2. TW Hostel
To stay in the heart of action in Taipei, book yourself a bed at TW Hostel, which is located within the Ximending shopping district. This no-frills dorm is ideal for travellers who just need a clean place to doze off and take a shower.
Image credit: 橙舍青年旅舍(台北一館) via Google Maps
You’ll have your pick of accommodation choices, such as dormitories that sleep up to 6 in a room for backpackers on a shoestring budget. For more privacy, opt for the single room with an en-suite bathroom.
Image credit: 橙舍青年旅舍(TW hostel) via Google Maps
Regardless of which one you go with, you’ll get access to the shared lounge and kitchen – a great place to meet and make friends with other travellers.
Book a stay at TW Hostel (from S$46.94/night).
3. CityInn Hotel
You’ll find branches of CityInn Hotel all over Taipei, mainly situated near metro or railway stations for the convenience of travellers. In fact, there are 3 such hotels at Taipei Main Station alone – the heart of the city and a great jumping point for those taking day trips out of Taipei.
Image credit: CityInn Hotel
Rooms are kept simple with modern furnishings. They’re also able to accommodate groups and families of up to 4 with their 3-bed or 2-double bed rooms.
Full list of CityInn Hotel locations.
Book a stay at CityInn Hotel Taipei Station One (from S$81.57/night).
4. Check Inn Hotel
Image credit: Check Inn Hotel
The exposed brick and graffiti on the walls make the Check Inn Hotel feel more like a loft in NYC than a cosy hotel in Taipei. The rooms even have floor-to-ceiling windows from which you can view the hip neighbourhood of Zhongshan District.
Image credit: Check Inn Hotel
The hotel’s location is amazing – it’s only a 5-minute drive to Ningxia Night Market, so it’s easy to head there for supper. And if you decide to dabao, we bet your food will still be hot by the time you step into your hotel room.
Book a stay at Check Inn Hotel (from S$80.70/night).
Start your adventure in Taipei
Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, these best things to do in Taipei prove that the city always has something fun to offer. There’s plenty to fill your itinerary – just don’t forget to leave room for some bubble tea.
We also got the chance to check out EVA Air’s Hello Kitty airplanes! Check out our Hello Kitty airplane review for an inside look at what passengers can expect on these flights.
More things to do in Taiwan:
This post was made possible thanks to EVA Air and Taiwan Visitor Association, Singapore. *The promotions featured in this article may no longer be available.
Cover image adapted from: @houtongcatvillage, @photographer_in_finance & @rongjin167 via Instagram, Let’s Play TWA portion of this content may contain referral links where The Smart Local may collect a commission. Our opinions remain our own.
Written by Yong Jing Yi and Raewyn Koh. Originally published on 21st August 2014. Last updated by Wei Yin on 10th April 2025.