7 Days in Taipei: Culture and Culinary Delights

This itinerary explores Taipei's vibrant culture through its historic sites, delicious street food, and stunning views. Experience the city's rich heritage while indulging in local delicacies across various neighborhoods.

Budget: $50-70/day Mid: $70-120/day October to December, when the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's attractions.

Day 1: Historical Heart of Taipei

Morning

National Palace Museum

Home to one of the world's largest collections of Chinese art, the National Palace Museum displays over 600,000 artifacts. Take your time to explore the stunning exhibits and beautiful gardens.

3 hours $10

Visit on a weekday to avoid crowds.

Afternoon

Shilin Night Market

After the museum, head to Shilin Night Market for lunch. Enjoy a variety of local street food, including the famous stinky tofu and fried chicken.

2 hours $10

Try the bubble tea at a local stall.

Evening

Yangmingshan National Park

In the evening, visit Yangmingshan for a sunset view. The park offers beautiful hiking trails and hot springs, perfect for winding down after a day of exploration.

2 hours $0

Dress in layers as it can get chilly.

Meals: Breakfast — Yonghe Soy Milk King; Lunch — Shilin Night Market; Dinner — Local hot pot restaurant

Take the MRT to Shilin Station and then a bus to Yangmingshan.

Day 2: Modern Taipei and Shopping

Morning

Taipei 101

Start your day at Taipei 101, once the tallest building in the world. Take the high-speed elevator to the observation deck for panoramic views of the city.

2 hours $20

Book tickets online to skip the line.

Afternoon

Xinyi Shopping District

Explore the Xinyi District, known for its upscale shopping malls and boutiques. Enjoy lunch at a café in the area, sampling some modern Taiwanese cuisine.

3 hours $15

Check out the food court for diverse options.

Evening

Raohe Street Night Market

Visit Raohe Street Night Market in the evening for a bustling atmosphere. Try local specialties like pepper buns and grilled squid.

2 hours $10

Arrive hungry to enjoy a variety of dishes.

Meals: Breakfast — Cafe at Taipei 101; Lunch — Xinyi District café; Dinner — Raohe Street Night Market

Use the MRT to reach Taipei 101 and Xinyi District.

Day 3: Cultural Exploration in Old Taipei

Morning

Longshan Temple

Visit Longshan Temple, a beautiful and historic temple in the Wanhua District. Admire the intricate architecture and learn about its significance in Taiwanese culture.

1.5 hours $0

Respect local customs and observe the rituals.

Afternoon

Bopiliao Historical Block

After the temple, stroll through Bopiliao, a preserved historical area that showcases traditional architecture and cultural exhibitions. It's a great place for photos and to learn about Taipei's past.

2 hours $0

Check for any ongoing cultural events.

Evening

Huaxi Street Night Market

End the day at Huaxi Street Night Market, known for its unique offerings like snake soup and herbal medicine shops. Try some local delicacies and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

2 hours $10

Visit the nearby temple for a late-night visit.

Meals: Breakfast — Local breakfast shop; Lunch — Café in Bopiliao; Dinner — Huaxi Street Night Market

Take the MRT to Longshan Temple Station.

Day 4: Art and Nature

Morning

Songshan Cultural and Creative Park

Explore the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, a hub for design and art. Visit galleries, shops, and cafes that showcase local creativity.

2 hours $0

Check for any art exhibitions during your visit.

Afternoon

Taipei Fine Arts Museum

Head to the Taipei Fine Arts Museum, which features contemporary art from Taiwan and around the world. Enjoy the surrounding park for a relaxing break.

2 hours $3

Visit on a Wednesday for free admission.

Evening

Tamsui Old Street

Travel to Tamsui for a scenic sunset along the river. Explore the old street for local snacks like A-gei and fish balls.

2 hours $10

Try the famous Tamsui sunset view.

Meals: Breakfast — Local café in Songshan; Lunch — Café near the Fine Arts Museum; Dinner — Tamsui Old Street

Use the MRT to reach Songshan Cultural Park and then take the MRT to Tamsui Station.

Day 5: Nature and Scenic Views

Morning

Elephant Mountain

Hike up Elephant Mountain for breathtaking views of Taipei, especially of Taipei 101. The hike is short but steep, so wear comfortable shoes.

2 hours $0

Go early to avoid crowds and enjoy the sunrise.

Afternoon

Beitou Hot Springs

Visit Beitou Hot Springs for a relaxing afternoon. Explore the hot spring museum and soak in the natural hot springs at a public bath or a private resort.

3 hours $10-30

Bring a swimsuit and towel.

Evening

Ningxia Night Market

In the evening, head to Ningxia Night Market for a variety of local foods, including oyster omelets and sweet potato balls.

2 hours $10

Arrive early to avoid long lines.

Meals: Breakfast — Local breakfast shop near Elephant Mountain; Lunch — Hot spring resort café; Dinner — Ningxia Night Market

Take the MRT to Xiangshan Station for Elephant Mountain and then to Beitou Station.

Day 6: Day Trip to Jiufen and Pingxi

Morning

Jiufen Old Street

Travel to Jiufen, a charming hillside village known for its tea houses and stunning views. Stroll through the narrow streets and sample local snacks like taro balls.

3 hours $10

Try the local tea at a traditional tea house.

Afternoon

Pingxi Sky Lanterns

After Jiufen, head to Pingxi to experience the sky lantern tradition. Write your wishes on a lantern and release it into the sky, a memorable experience.

2 hours $15

Visit during the week for fewer crowds.

Evening

Return to Taipei

Enjoy a leisurely evening back in Taipei, perhaps exploring a nearby night market or relaxing at your accommodation.

2 hours $0

Consider a night market close to your accommodation.

Meals: Breakfast — Local Jiufen cafe; Lunch — Jiufen Old Street; Dinner — Taipei night market

Take a train from Taipei to Ruifang Station, then a bus to Jiufen.

Day 7: Relaxation and Reflection

Morning

Daan Forest Park

Start your final day with a peaceful walk in Daan Forest Park, a large urban park that offers a serene escape from the bustling city. Enjoy the greenery and perhaps spot some local wildlife.

2 hours $0

Bring a book for a relaxing morning.

Afternoon

Taipei Botanical Garden

Visit the Taipei Botanical Garden to explore diverse plant species and beautiful landscapes. It's a great spot for photography and enjoying nature.

2 hours $0

Check the schedule for any guided tours.

Evening

Farewell Dinner at Din Tai Fung

End your trip with a farewell dinner at Din Tai Fung, famous for its xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). Be prepared for a wait, but it's well worth it.

2 hours $25

Make a reservation in advance to secure your spot.

Meals: Breakfast — Local café near Daan Park; Lunch — Café in the Botanical Garden; Dinner — Din Tai Fung

Use the MRT to reach Daan Park and the Botanical Garden.

Practical Tips

  • Purchase an EasyCard for convenient travel on public transport.
  • Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your interaction with locals.
  • Carry cash, as many street vendors do not accept credit cards.
  • Download a translation app for easier communication.
  • Be mindful of local customs and etiquette, especially in temples.

Getting There

Fly into Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). Take the Taoyuan Airport MRT to Taipei Main Station for easy access to the city.

Check visa requirements for your nationality; many travelers can enter Taiwan visa-free for a limited duration.

Check visa requirements Trip cost calculator

FAQ

Yes for a focused first visit if you plan one geographic cluster per day and avoid excessive transfers.

For popular sites in peak season, timed-entry tickets usually save time and reduce stress.

Use our cost calculator for a personalized estimate based on your travel style.