An usually missed Asian vacation spot, Taiwan’s capital is one of these uncommon cities the place high-tech innovation meets natural beauty—like a extra inexpensive Tokyo, and with its personal distinctive allure. Framed by verdant mountains and hills, the finest issues to do in Taipei make up a metropolis that pulsates with vitality; from the vigorous sizzle of night markets to the scenic climbing trails of Elephant Mountain. Food is an obsession right here, with savory bowls of beef noodle soup, crispy tofu, and boba milk tea. With its Japanese affect from a colonial previous, skyscrapers, and buzzing nightlife, Taipei has a futuristic aptitude, and but additionally a reverence for old-world custom.
Taipei’s accessibility additionally continues to develop with 2025 lodge openings like Sotetsu Grand Fresa Taipei Ximen, Episode Daan Taipei, and Capella Taipei. Air connectivity can also be increasing: EVA Air is launching direct flights from Dallas in October, Etihad Airways will launch direct flights from Abu Dhabi in September, whereas Thai AirAsia will join Chiang Mai to Taipei and onward to Sapporo beginning June 15. Starlux Airlines is ramping up service, too, with new nonstop flights from Ontario, California to Taipei starting June 2. Here is the finest of Taipei in anticipation of its newfound entry, together with how to get there, the finest issues to do in Taipei, and the place to eat and keep.
Getting to Taipei and navigating the metropolis
Taipei’s most important airport is Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), about 25 miles west of central Taipei, a 30 to 45 minute drive. The quickest route to Taipei is the Taoyuan Airport MRT, a 35-minute journey to Taipei Main Station for round $5. Taxis are extremely secure and obtainable for about $40. Within the metropolis, the Taipei MRT system is clear, environment friendly, and simple to navigate. Taipei is very walkable, or to get your individual pair of wheels, you may attempt YouBike, the metropolis’s bike-sharing program, for as little as $0.15 for the first half-hour. Taxis are an environment friendly means to get round, whereas ride-hailing apps like Uber and LINE Taxi are extensively used. The forex is the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD), and bank cards are accepted at most lodges, malls, and main eating places, however money is most popular at evening markets and avenue distributors.
Best issues to do in Taipei: Hot springs, dumplings, and teahouses
One of Taipei’s most iconic landmarks, Taipei 101 is a procuring and eating vacation spot that additionally occurs to be a skyscraper (as soon as the world’s tallest constructing). Visitors can book tickets to the Observatory on the 89th ground with panoramic 360-degree views, full with super-charged binoculars, an audio information, and entry to the one hundred and first ground’s photograph units. For an adrenaline rush, attempt the Skyline 460 Experience, the place you’ll be harnessed for a rooftop stroll. Afterward, discover Taipei 101’s mall. It’s a luxurious procuring mecca that features Din Tai Fung, the island’s most well-known restaurant for his or her famend, delicate soup dumplings.
For extra skyline views, this time together with Taipei 101, hike Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan). Named for its form, this fashionable climbing path is round 600 ft tall, providing a reasonably difficult climb. The path is a few mile lengthy and options stone steps main to a sequence of images and viewing platforms.