Day 1: The Cultural Heart of Taipei
Welcome to the vibrant city of Taipei, where modern urban landscapes meet rich cultural heritage. Your three-day journey through this fascinating city begins today. Pack your curiosity and walking shoes, and let’s delve into the historical and cultural core of Taiwan’s capital.
Morning – Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall and Liberty Square
Start your day early with a visit to the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, an iconic symbol of Taipei. Standing majestically in Liberty Square. With its grand white marble facade and blue-tiled octagonal roof, the memorial hall is a breathtaking sight to behold.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Admission: Free
- Tip: Don’t miss the changing of the guards ceremony, which occurs hourly.
Adjacent to the memorial hall is Liberty Square, a spacious public square that’s home to the National Concert Hall and National Theater. Both are architectural masterpieces and host various cultural performances year-round.
Afternoon – Longshan Temple and Bopiliao Old Street
After immersing yourself in Taiwan’s modern history, take a metro ride to one of Taipei’s oldest temples, Longshan Temple. This temple serves as a serene sanctuary amidst the bustling city and is a testament to Taiwanese spirituality and archit
Evening – Ximending Youth Shopping District
Conclude your first day in Taipei with a trip to the Ximending Youth Shopping District, a lively area filled with shops, street food stalls, and entertainment venues. This pedestrian-friendly zone is often compared to Tokyo’s Shibuya and Harajuku, offering a glimpse into Taiwan’s youth culture and trends.
- Highlights: Street performers, unique boutiques, and an array of local and international cuisines.
- Don’t Miss: Trying the iconic Taiwanese bubble tea and street snacks like stinky tofu, if you dare!
Day 2: Modern wonders and scenic views
After soaking in the cultural richness of Taipei, Day 2 invites you to explore its modern marvels and natural beauty. Get ready for another exciting day.
Morning – Taipei 101 Tower
Begin your day at the Taipei 101 Tower, once the world’s tallest building. This architectural feat is not only a symbol of Taipei but also a testament to modern engineering and design. The observatory on the 89th floor offers breathtaking panoramic views of the entire city.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (Last admission at 9:15 PM)
- Admission: Check the official website for ticket prices
- Tip: Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy clearer views.
Lunch – Din Tai Fung
No visit to Taipei 101 is complete without sampling the world-renowned xiao long bao (soup dumplings) at Din Tai Fung, located at the base of the tower. This Michelin-starred restaurant chain is famous for its precision in crafting the perfect dumpling.
Afternoon – Elephant Mountain Hiking Trail
After a fulfilling meal, take a short metro ride to the Elephant Mountain Hiking Trail. A moderate hike will reward you with the best vantage point for capturing Taipei 101 amid the lush greenery of the city’s landscape.
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon, to catch the sunset over the city.
Evening – Raohe Street Night Market
Conclude your day with a visit to the Raohe Street Night Market, one of the oldest and most traditional night markets in Taipei. Here, you can try a variety of street foods, shop for souvenirs, and experience the local nighttime economy in full swing.
- Must-try: Pepper Pork Buns, Grilled Squid, and Taiwanese Bubble Tea.
Day 3: Cultural Exploration and Relaxation
On the final day of your Taipei adventure, slow down the pace to soak in the artistic and serene side of the city, ending your journey with a blend of culture and relaxation.
Morning – National Palace Museum
Start your day at the National Palace Museum, home to an extensive collection of artifacts and artworks covering thousands of years of Chinese history. This museum is a treasure trove that tells the story of China’s artistic and cultural evolution.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Admission: Check the official website for the latest ticket prices
- Tip: Don’t miss the Jadeite Cabbage and the Meat-shaped Stone, two of the museum’s most famous exhibits.
Lunch – Beitou Hot Springs
After immersing yourself in history, take the MRT to Beitou for a relaxing lunch near the Beitou Hot Springs. The area is dotted with various restaurants offering local Taiwanese cuisine. After lunch, visit the Beitou Hot Spring Museum or dip into one of the public hot spring baths for a soothing experience.
Afternoon – Tamsui Old Street and Fisherman’s Wharf
Head to Tamsui Old Street for a leisurely afternoon stroll. This riverside district is known for its historic sites, street snacks, and beautiful sunset views by the water. Continue to Fisherman’s Wharf and cross the iconic Lover’s Bridge to enjoy one of the best sunset spots in Taipei.
- Must-try Snack: Tamsui’s agei (a fried tofu stuffed with glass noodles and sealed with fish paste).
Evening – Shilin Night Market
For your final night, there’s no better place to be than the Shilin Night Market, Taipei’s largest and most famous night market. It’s the perfect spot to indulge in street food, pick up souvenirs, and reflect on your Taipei journey.
- Recommendation: Try the oyster omelette and bubble tea for an authentic Taiwanese experience.
As your 3 days in Taipei come to a close, you’ll leave with memories of a city that beautifully blends tradition with modernity, culture with nature, and relaxation with adventure. Taipei is a city that always welcomes you back, offering new discoveries with each visit.
