An often overlooked Asian destination, Taiwan’s capital is one of those rare cities where high-tech innovation meets natural beauty—like a more affordable Tokyo, and with its own unique charm. Framed by verdant mountains and hills, the best things to do in Taipei make up a city that pulsates with energy; from the lively sizzle of night markets to the scenic hiking trails of Elephant Mountain. Food is an obsession here, with savory bowls of beef noodle soup, crispy tofu, and boba milk tea. With its Japanese influence from a colonial past, skyscrapers, and buzzing nightlife, Taipei has a futuristic flair, and yet also a reverence for old-world tradition.
Taipei’s accessibility also continues to grow with 2025 hotel openings like Sotetsu Grand Fresa Taipei Ximen, Episode Daan Taipei, and Capella Taipei. Air connectivity is also expanding: EVA Air is launching direct flights from Dallas in October, Etihad Airways will launch direct flights from Abu Dhabi in September, while Thai AirAsia will connect Chiang Mai to Taipei and onward to Sapporo starting June 15. Starlux Airlines is ramping up service, too, with new nonstop flights from Ontario, California to Taipei beginning June 2. Here is the best of Taipei in anticipation of its newfound access, including how to get there, the best things to do in Taipei, and where to eat and stay.
Getting to Taipei and navigating the city
Taipei’s main 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 ride to Taipei Main Station for around $5. Taxis are incredibly safe and available for about $40. Within the city, the Taipei MRT system is clean, efficient, and easy to navigate. Taipei is highly walkable, or to get your own pair of wheels, you can try YouBike, the city’s bike-sharing program, for as little as $0.15 for the first 30 minutes. Taxis are an efficient way to get around, while ride-hailing apps like Uber and LINE Taxi are widely used. The currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD), and credit cards are accepted at most hotels, malls, and major restaurants, but cash is preferred at night markets and street vendors.
Best things to do in Taipei: Hot springs, dumplings, and teahouses
One of Taipei’s most iconic landmarks, Taipei 101 is a shopping and dining destination that also happens to be a skyscraper (once the world’s tallest building). Visitors can book tickets to the Observatory on the 89th floor with panoramic 360-degree views, complete with super-charged binoculars, an audio guide, and access to the 101st floor’s photo sets. For an adrenaline rush, try the Skyline 460 Experience, where you’ll be harnessed for a rooftop walk. Afterward, explore Taipei 101’s mall. It’s a luxury shopping mecca that includes Din Tai Fung, the island’s most famous restaurant for their renowned, delicate soup dumplings.
For more skyline views, this time including Taipei 101, hike Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan). Named for its shape, this popular hiking trail is around 600 feet tall, offering a moderately challenging climb. The trail is about a mile long and features stone steps leading to a series of photography and viewing platforms.
