Taipei is Taiwan’s capital. It is modern and traditional at the same time: skyscrapers towering into the air, night markets noisy at night, silent temples, and fantastic natural getaways. Taipei is an exciting place to visit for newcomers. Four days are enough to dive into this lively city and discover its richness in culture, history, and cuisine. This itinerary is done in a very planned manner such that the experiences of Taipei should be memorable ones, while simultaneously giving enough relaxation time. Here is the top 4-day itinerary in Taipei, Taiwan, for first-time travelers.
Day 1: Iconic Landmarks and Historical Exploration
Taipei 101
Begin your tour of Taipei with one of the world’s tallest, most famous structures, Taipei 101. Taipei 101 is a 508-metre structure and until 2010, this was the tallest building in the world. Traditional Asian aesthetics feature in its pagoda-inspired architecture, but all modern engineering wonders find their reflection within.
You want to be up there pretty early to enjoy the attraction without all of those crowds, especially during peak periods. One of the fastest high-speed elevators in the world transports you from the 5th floor to the observation deck on the 89th floor in 37 seconds flat. And the ride, too, is an attraction-for a starry digital sky blurs your eyes as you make your way to the top.
When you reach the observation deck, there are vast panoramic 360-degree views of Taipei. On clear days, you can even see as far as the distant mountain ranges and look across the Tamsui River. A bird’s-eye view of the grid layout of the city lets you appreciate its broad scale, key landmarks like the sprawling Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, and the busy Xinyi District below. The outdoor observation deck on the 91st floor allows one to feel wind directly against their skin as one views the urban landscape.
Architecture and engineering enthusiasts will have a ball going to Taipei 101 for reasons other than its view-for instance, it houses a huge tuned mass damper in the form of a 660-ton sphere suspended between the 87th and 92nd floors. This damper counteracts the building’s swaying in an earthquake or typhoon. It has proven Taiwan’s determination to innovate in structural safety. The interactive exhibits explaining this engineering feat make it a feature for curious minds to be excited about.
Elephant Mountain
From there, go to Elephant Mountain, which is just a 10-minute walk from Taipei 101, for a relatively short but worthwhile hike. It stands out as the ideal contrast to your urban experience, as a natural getaway. The Elephant Mountain Trail stretches 600 meters, though pretty steep; however, stone steps and wooden walkways make the walk relatively safe and easy.
Scattered throughout are lookout points and pavilions that provide views of Taipei 101 set off by the verdant greens surrounding it. The hike usually takes around 20-30 minutes, and sunset is a better time for taking photographs. Here, the photographer can take images of Taipei 101 as it glows amidst the evening colors.
When the atmosphere clears off, the vibrant colors as the sun dunks off the glass reflect into an unbelievable photo opportunity. For those not so keen on hiking, benches along the trail provide a serene resting spot to take in the serene scenery.
Din Tai Fung Restaurant
From Elephant Mountain, proceed to the bustling Xinyi District, a center of modern entertainment and shopping. In this energetic district is Din Tai Fung, the renowned dumpling restaurant. Born in Taipei, Din Tai Fung has spread across the globe, but there is something unique about having it in its hometown.
The xiao long bao at the restaurant is made with great care, and each dumpling is weighed out to a specific gram to achieve uniformity. The chefs work through glass panels, folding and pleating the dumplings into perfect little parcels. Their pork xiao long bao is filled with delicate broth and tender meat, which melts in your mouth.
Other must-haves include truffle dumplings, shrimp fried rice, and steamed buns. Long lines often form in front of Din Tai Fung, but the wait is part of the experience. Feel free to look around the surrounding luxury boutiques or catch a street performance, which seems to pop up daily in Xinyi District. Once seated, the speedy service ensures all the dishes arrive at the right temperatures.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
After lunch, take the MRT or taxi for about half an hour to reach Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. The most important and highly ranked of all cultural symbols in Taipei is Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, which stands with Liberty Square as dedicated to a great leader who once ruled the Republic of China: Chiang Kai-shek.
There, flanking the memorial, the beauty of national concerts and theatrical shows at the National Concert Hall and National Theater takes over. You’ll find peaceful serenity sometimes dotted with a live traditional concert or public performances within the plaza.
Inside the memorial, a tall bronze statue of Chiang Kai-shek stands in the main chamber. The ceremony of changing the guard is performed every hour.
This somber, choreographed ritual attracts crowds eager to see the precision and respect demonstrated by the guards. Take time to explore the exhibition halls below the statue detailing Chiang Kai-shek’s life and Taiwan’s tumultuous history.
Lungshan Temple
Next up in the long tapestry of cultural richness of Taipei is a visit to the historic Wanhua District Lungshan Temple. Dating back to 1738, Lungshan Temple is an expression of the spirituality and architecture that make Taiwan. This temple serves as a bustling hub of worship that houses various deities: Buddhist, Taoist, and folk deities.
The air fills with chanting mantras and the smell of incense, providing a sense of serenity and worship, once one enters the temple. Decorations are to be seen in the roof carvings and intricate stone pillars and columns reflecting ancient myths and legends.
Incense is often lit by visitors and other local customs practiced for praying to achieve health, fortune, and success. Inside, visit the sanctums, which are replete with statues of the Goddess of Mercy, Guanyin, and other deities. A quiet refuge, the temple garden boasts koi ponds and a series of cascading waterfalls.
Raohe Night Market
At night, end your day at Raohe Night Market, one of the oldest and favorite night markets in Taipei. Raohe is just near the Songshan District; its entrance features a beautifully lit temple gate to welcome visitors to a lively stretch of food stalls and shops.
Raohe Night Market is an alfresco feast for the senses. Pepper buns sizzling on the street wafted in their aroma; stinky tofu brought a sour taste, while the sweetness of bubble tea filled the air. Tasting as much street food as possible down crowded lanes can be great fun. Some of the must-try dishes include grilled squid, scallion pancakes, and mochi balls.
There are carnival-style games, souvenir stands, and fortune-telling stalls. Vibrant atmosphere aside, the friendliness of the local vendors creates an essence that typifies the street life in Taipei. Conclude your day with a full stomach and happy memories at Raohe Night Market and be set to continue to discover the many wonders that Taipei has in store.
Day 2: Nature, Culture, and Quirky Experiences
Yangmingshan National Park
Yangmingshan National Park is a big natural reserve within 40 minutes of downtown Taipei. It is a perfect place to admire the dramatic volcanic landscape, natural hot springs, luscious forests, and fields full of seasonal flowers, a good escape from an urban background. It is the place of the Tatun Volcano Group that triggers the geothermal activity and causes the topography here to be extremely unique, and its biodiversity is very rich.
Seven Star Mountain
Start by hiking up Qixing Mountain or Seven Star Mountain, the highest peak in Taipei, which goes up to 1,120 meters above sea level. The well-signaled path to the summit is about 4.5 kilometers round trip and involves moderate challenges that can be accomplished by most of its visitors who have a good level of fitness. Silvergrass fields, springtime blossoming rhododendrons, and cherry blossoms accompany you on your way up. The trail also offers various overlooks at which you can pause and appreciate panoramic views of the Taipei Basin and the Pacific Ocean on clear days.
Xiaoyoukeng Geological Site
If you do not want to go for a long trek, then the geological site in the park called Xiaoyoukeng, post-volcanic, is great. You see fumaroles spewing out steam, sulphur deposits, and bubbling mud pots. It creates a dramatic landscape that’s surreal, with steam rising through the air – a little similar to Iceland’s geothermal zones. Still, one can appreciate its beautiful mountain background covered by lush green trees.
Along the trails, information signs explain geological processes happening under your feet and provide interesting knowledge about the park’s volcanic origin. In addition to hiking, Yangmingshan is famous for its flower seasons. When you go in spring, March to May, you will enjoy a spectacular view of azaleas, cherry blossoms, and calla lilies. A popular photo opportunity is the Floral Clock near the visitor center, surrounded by well-manicured gardens.
Dining
Dine at one of the farm-to-table restaurants of Yangmingshan after a morning of nature. Most of these small local restaurants draw their fresh produce directly from the mountain soil. Dishes, therefore, have strong seasonal overtones, often based on fresh bamboo shoots, mountain vegetables, and free-range chicken. Top Restaurant sits high atop the mountainside with a broad panorama of Taipei; local specialties abound in its setting, where it is both refreshing and refilling.
Or back to the city and go for lunch in Shilin District, where the various local foods and cuisines from all over Taiwan come together with original flavors in innovative ways. The dish here includes a national beef noodle soup or some scallion pancakes and dumplings from most of the small eateries found all over the streets.
National Palace Museum
Then go and experience some of the richness of Taiwanese culture at the National Palace Museum. It is one of the institutions that house over 700,000 artifacts spread over nearly 8,000 years of Chinese history. Some of these collections are jade carvings, calligraphy, ancient bronze vessels, and imperial paintings.
Jadeite Cabbage
The Jadeite Cabbage is the most popular of all. It is a delicate jade sculpture carved in the shape of a Chinese cabbage. A locust and a katydid are carved into its leaves. It is an extremely delicate piece portraying fertility and prosperity.
Meat-Shaped Stone
Another interesting artifact in the collection is the Meat-Shaped Stone. It is an artistic jasper carved and polished into a piece resembling an actual slice of braised pork belly. Visitors tend to walk around it in awe and amazement about how believable this artifact appears. The design of the National Palace Museum is done in a way that facilitates visitor flow, allowing audio guides in multiple languages for a more profound look at the exhibits.
Zhishan Garden
Spend at least two hours roaming around the great halls of the museum. If your schedule allows, step over to Zhishan Garden beside the museum. This type of classical Chinese garden, developed in the original style with fish ponds, pavilions, and stone bridges, evokes a kind of serene ambiance one might seek, contemplating the aesthetics found inside.
Beitou Hot Spring
From the National Palace Museum, drive or MRT to the famous hot spring district of Taipei called Beitou. This locality is known for having geothermal activities with many available hot springs resorts and scenic routes for walking around. Start from visiting the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, whose location is in a beautiful building constructed during Japanese colonial times. The museum describes Beitou’s history of hot spring culture, including its development from indigenous practice to early 20th-century Japanese-inspired bathing. Proceed to the nearby Thermal Valley or Hell Valley after visiting the museum.
This smoky, green-colored sulfur spring is one of Beitou’s most photographed icons. The temperatures in the valley can reach 100°C. The mist-filled landscape is something out of a science fiction novel. Thermal Valley does not allow swimming; however, some hot spring resorts can be accessed just nearby that let people bathe in mineral-rich water. Among them, Beitou Public Hot Springs, or the expensive resort known as Grand View Resort would give private spring baths with scenic views of the mountain.
Shilin Night Market
Visit Shilin Night Market at dusk. Taipei boasts the most famous and biggest night market in Taiwan – Shilin is a sensory overload in the good sense: vivid, noisy, and fragrant with that particular smell popping up into your senses. For starters, try the fried chicken steak, one of the popular street foods-a crispy exterior gives way to tenderness on the inside. Other must-try dishes include oyster omelets, grilled squid, and Taiwanese sausages wrapped in sticky rice buns.
In addition to food, Shilin Night Market has carnival games, clothing stalls, and souvenir shops. It is a good place to pick up gifts for friends or simply revel in the lively atmosphere. Don’t forget to try a refreshing cup of bubble tea or papaya milk to round out the experience. Top off the evening with a lazy stroll through the night market, embracing the energy that keeps Shilin the place to be at night.
Day 3: Day Trips and Hidden Gems
Mountain Town Jiufen
Spend your third day in Taiwan doing a very scenic day tour in the mountain town of Jiufen, which is an olden days town featuring breath taking seaside sceneries. Jiufen is one of Taiwan’s northeast coastal towns famous for its winding roads and old-town charm. This quaint town has a history. It was once a gold mining place during the Qing Dynasty. Still, today, it has become a quiet haven for those who wish to experience a bit of culture, nature, and fine dining.
Streets in Jiufen
It’s a world of nostalgia as you walk through the maze of streets in Jiufen. The night lamp-lit alleyways in this town are said to have inspired Hayao Miyazaki’s famous animated movie Spirited Away. Still, they are an absolute delight in the night. Visual similarities between these atmospheric streets and the ethereal setting of Spirited Away, with red lanterns, misty hills, and traditional buildings, create magic and almost make it seem dreamlike.
Jiufen market
Just wander through the Jiufen market with all of the local wares, crafts, and snack bars. Do try some of Taiwan’s old traditional desserts while visiting Jiufen- taro balls are quite good. Chewy, with mashed taro root inside and dipped in a sweet syrup, for example. You can also try peanut ice cream rolls, which are a refreshing combination of shaved ice, crushed peanuts, and fragrant herbs all wrapped in a thin crepe-like sheet. For the savory tooth, there are always beef noodles served in a rich, flavorful broth, a local specialty.
A-Mei Teahouse
Experience, for a time, an undeniably true experience in visiting the A-Mei Teahouse. Sit back and be rejuvenated at an old-style, cozy teahouse where some of the spectacular mountain views, together with the coastline, can be easily viewed while savoring Taiwanese oolong tea, just watching cloudy winds pass through the hills to come out freely. The teahouse, from the inside with an antique look and view of the lush landscape, is just the right spot to relax and absorb the serene atmosphere of Jiufen.
Neighboring Shifen Town
Upon experiencing the charms of Jiufen, take on a short trip to Shifen, which is another neighborly town famous for its breath taking natural beauty and uniqueness in the most precious and interesting cultural traditions.
Taiwan’s Niagara Falls
Shifen Waterfall is one of the major attractions in Shifen, famously called “Taiwan’s Niagara Falls.” Water pours down powerfully in a torrent, cascading down in lush greenery with dramatic rock formations. You can walk along the pathways and get a closer view of the falls, feel the mist on your face, and hear the thunderous crash of the water onto the pool below. It is a great photography spot.
Releasing sky lanterns is one of the most memorable things to do in Shifen. The town’s old railway tracks are used as the backdrop for this heartwarming custom: one can write down their wishes on colorful lanterns and let them float off into the sky. It’s such a breathtaking view seeing dozens of lanterns float into the sky, which will bring good luck and blessings for participants.
Daan Forest Park
From here, it’s time to head back to Taipei to de-stress in Daan Forest Park, one of the biggest urban parks. Here, one can stroll through large expanses of lawns together with water and shady walkways that promote a good, relaxed, air-filled stroll. Whether one might be specifically interested in birdwatching or merely needs a quiet corner in which to sit and read, it is an ideal place to relax.
Yongkang Street – Foodie’s Paradise
If you have time, stroll around Yongkang Street – an area that’s a foodie’s paradise as it has lots of street food stalls and cozy eateries. Try a refreshing bowl of Mango Shaved Ice at Smoothie House, the place of all cool desserts, or enjoy a hearty bowl of beef noodles at the well-known Yong Kang Beef Noodles restaurant, known for its rich flavors and tender beef cuts. The culinary haven will wrap up your day of exploration. You will, at the end of the day, experience the melting pot of cultures, natures, and local delicacies as you find lasting memories about the hidden treasures in Taiwan.
Day 4: Art, Shopping, and Relaxation
Your last day in Taipei is ideal for creativity, shopping, and resting. You get all the energetic bustle of the city with peace from the scenery along the riverside.
Huashan 1914 Creative Park
Spend your morning strolling around this vibrant cultural spot called Huashan 1914 Creative Park, right in the center of Taipei. The place initially began as a winery factory in 1914 but has today become an effervescent venue for arts and creativity. Old industrial warehouses now host art exhibitions, boutique shops, trendy cafes, and innovative design studios-the site is a place where history meets modernity.
Taiwanese Arts
As you amble through the wide grounds of the park, you will see several exhibits offering both modern and traditional art. However, these are often works from local Taiwanese artists. Here, the ambiance is both relaxed and inspiring and kicks the creative wellspring in the air, which makes you wonder and ignites your curiosity. Regular workshops, film screenings, and performances take place in the park, so you may catch a live event or film screening if your visit coincides with the dates, offering a deeper insight into Taiwan’s lively arts scene.
Boutique Shops and Studios
There are boutique shops and local design studios spread out across the park to browse through. Such stores carry eclectic local designs, from handmade jewelry and accessories to home décor, unique fashion items, and quirky souvenirs. Whether one is looking to pick something up as a souvenir or merely to browse, the stores here are refreshing alternatives to the somewhat over-the-top shopping malls surrounding the city proper. The atmosphere is far less hectic, providing a more intimate and artistic experience compared to the bustling markets or malls.
Tonghua Night Market
When you’re ready to move on, take a short trip to the Tonghua Night Market, which offers a more peaceful and laid-back food experience during the daytime. Though Tonghua is one of the city’s smaller markets, locals love this place for its authenticity and the quietness it carries. This market will present you with the greatest varieties of Taiwanese snacks and comfort food to sample.
It is one market with its unique appeal: stalls run by vendors dish out all kinds of yummy eats, like crispy pancakes of scallions, grilled squid, fried stinky tofu, and the like. The pineapple cakes or the bubble tea would make good dessert choices. Both of these eats are very typical Taiwanese comfort foods. The laid-back nature of this market lets you enjoy the flavors at a bit of a slower pace without the crowds often dominating the major markets.
Ximending – Harajuku of Taipei
Proceed to Ximending, one of the youthful districts in Taipei that often carries the reputation as “the Harajuku of Taipei.” In reality, the neighborhood is alive with street fashion and quirky shop types. One is likely to feel energy with creativity because streets are adorned by trendy boutiques selling high-flying cutting-edge fashions and great places to seek the best, coolest, unique, or unusual pieces and find accessories, clothes, or even streetwear – either with edge-cutting current fads or with more classic or nostalgic character.
Explore pedestrian streets that throng with various colorful street performances, musicians, and artists in this district that add to its vibrancy. It is where the young, young-at-heart converge in their expression, with creativity in every corner of the air. Besides that, it also has so many quirky shops selling anime stuff, vintage vinyl, and handmade cool stuff. If one is into pop culture, then Ximending has something for everyone, with a tremendous range of items that celebrate all things Taiwanese and international subcultures.
Red House Theatre
Among the attractions here is the Red House Theater which was constructed way back in 1908. The Red House Theater has already been utilized as a cultural center and creative space with exhibitions of local art, craft markets, and performances. Inside, you can find a nice collection of handmade things, from pottery to jewelry to unusual home items, as made by Taiwanese artists and craftspeople. The place is cozy and inviting, providing a wonderful chance to try local arts while promoting small businesses. In case you are looking for truly unique souvenirs, this place should be a go-to location for one-of-a-kind souvenirs.
Tamsui
Then you go to Tamsui, which is a pretty lovely district by the Tamsui River. There is this promenade with stunning views, some colonial architecture, and just such a peaceful ambiance that would give you the perfect end for your day. It is an old place. It has a rich history, and in its walkways are beautifully colonial buildings and old churches that remain as relics of Taipei’s past. The riverside promenade affords a striking view of the river and the hills surrounding it. It will be a perfect spot for a leisurely walk.
It’s the nice cool breeze where you could stand along the water’s edge to watch the drift of boats at the top, which is one of the favorite places locals visit for resting, walking while admiring the beautiful scenery, or simply waiting for the sunset. The sunset in Tamsui is really beautiful, and you should not miss a good view of the riverbank when the sun goes down beneath the horizon, casting tints of orange and pink against the blue sky.
Tamsui River Ferry
One more interesting experience is to have a ride by ferry on the Tamsui River. The boat ride will give you a different view of the area, offering attractive views of the landscape surrounding it. It is a pleasant and peaceful way to enjoy the natural beauty of the region as you reflect on your trip to Taipei.
Fisherman’s Wharf
Finish your last day at Fisherman’s Wharf, just five minutes away from Tamsui, for your last night in Taipei. It is a place known for its fresh seafood and for dining right beside the water. Order grilled fish, shrimp, and oysters, fresh and flavorful cooked to look even more beautiful with its perfect picturesque setting. The atmosphere is quite relaxing and scenic, offering a perfect place in which to taste your last meal and reflect on the unforgettable experiences of a trip.
Conclusion
Taipei is a city that happens to capture your senses and has something for every kind of traveler. It offers breath taking landmarks, verdant nature, rich cultural experiences, and delicious street food, all promising unforgettable memories. This four-day itinerary is packed with equal measures of exploration and relaxation, giving you the real feel of the heart of Taiwan. Whether it’s a plate of steamed dumplings from Din Tai Fung or the sun setting in Tamsui, Taipei has something that makes you feel like returning.
