12 best things to do in Taipei, Taiwan (Asia)

A modern city with ornate Chinese temples and mountainous landscapes, Taipei also boasts colourful markets and excellent museums. Whether you're looking for a dose of culture, a day in nature or a piece of history, you'll find plenty to explore in this capital city. From a bamboo skyscraper with an observation deck to centuries-old monuments, here are the best things to do in Taipei.

Step back in time at Longshan Temple Credit: Longshan Temple by bigstock.com

Step back in time at Longshan Temple (Hotels nearby)

Housing hundreds of statues of Buddhist, Taoist and Confucian deities, Lungshan Temple blends traditional Chinese and palace architecture to create an enchanting atmosphere. Marvel at the vivid creatures that adorn the temple walls and admire the stone statues that dot the temple grounds. Built in 1738 by settlers from Fujian, it was a gathering place for Chinese colonists and has stood the test of time, enduring through everything from natural disasters to wars.

Savour regional flavours at the Shilin Night Market Credit: bigstock.com Shilin Night Market

Savour regional flavours at the Shilin Night Market (Hotels nearby)

Sample some of Taiwan's most popular snacks at the Shilin Night Market, where you can wander the alleys to discover a variety of new cuisines. Widely regarded as the city's largest market, it has been active for over 100 years and comes alive at night when hundreds of stalls sell souvenirs, produce and food. Indulge in tempura, bubble tea and stinky tofu, while the oyster omelette is a must try street food with its mix of eggs, chives and oysters.

Admire artefacts in the National Palace Museum Credit: bigstock.com National Palace Museum

See artefacts in the National Palace Museum (Hotels nearby)

A world-class museum housing an eclectic collection of treasures held by the emperors who ruled from the Forbidden City, the National Palace Museum is a must-see for any history buff. It is one of the world's most important collectors of Chinese imperial art and artefacts, with over 700,000 pieces highlighting the history of Chinese dynasties. After exploring the historical relics, take a walk outside to stroll through the gardens on peaceful paths dotted with ponds, bridges and a pavilion.

Admire the city skyline at Taipei 101 Credit: bigstock.com Taipei 101

Be enchanted by the Taipei 101 city skyline (Hotels nearby)

The tallest green building in the world, Taipei 101 is one of the city's most prominent skyscrapers. Spanning 101 floors above the ground at almost 1,700 feet, it is home to a famous outdoor open-air bridge where you can admire fascinating views of the capital. After you have finished being captivated by the glittering nightscape, visit the base of the building to explore a multi-storey mall, a food court and various restaurants and shops.

Get a dose of culture at Huashan 1914 Creative Park Credit: bigstock.com Huashan 1914 Creative Park

Get a dose of culture at Huashan 1914 Creative Park (Hotels nearby)

A historic factory warehouse, Huashan 1914 Creative Park was originally home to one of the largest wine producers in Taiwan. It now serves as a major events venue where a variety of large-scale exhibitions, installations, theatre productions and performances can be seen. Considered a centre of creative arts, visit here to get a dose of culture while celebrating music, art, theatre and literature in a variety of events.

Shopping in Ximending Credit: bigstock.com Ximending

Shopping in Ximending (Hotels nearby)

The perfect place to pick up the latest fashions or simply stroll and people-watch, Ximending is a collection of alleys and streets that make up a trendy open-air market. Walk down one of the many shopping streets, such as Emei Street, to find boutiques selling all kinds of merchandise and clothes. It is one of the coolest neighbourhoods in the city, full of clothing shops, eclectic restaurants and bars, while also seeing street performances and exhibitions.

Explore Xingtian Temple Credit: Xingtian Temple from bigstock.com

Explore Xingtian Temple (Nearby hotels)

Located in the heart of the city, Xingtian Temple is a famous religious landmark in the city, dedicated to Guan Yu, a famous general in the Three Kingdoms period. Admire the details of flying dragons as you enter the temple and watch as devotees kneel in prayer while the main altar sees offerings of fresh flowers and tea. Watch one of the traditional ceremonies being performed by temple officials in royal blue robes, then walk along Fortune Telling Street nearby.

Photograph of rock formations in Yehliu Geopark Credit: bigstock.com Yehliu Geopark

Photograph of rock formations in Yehliu Geopark (Hotel nearby)

Get your cameras ready for this natural wonder, as Yehliu Geopark is a sight to behold with its unique geological formations. Sculpted by nature, these apparent works of art were created over centuries of wind and waves that formed the actual rocks. Stroll through the park to see mushroom-shaped rocks, honeycomb pockets and tall columns and rocks that have been nicknamed 'Sea Candles', 'Fairy Shoes' and 'Elephant Rock'.

Learn something new at the National Taiwan Museum Credit: facebook.com National Taiwan Museum

Learn something new at the National Taiwan Museum (Hotels nearby)

If you want to learn more about the region's history, visit the National Taiwan Museum. Admire its Greek façade with towering columns and stained-glass skylights before browsing through its exhibits tracing the country's history. Here you can see rare dinosaur fossils and specimens of special animals, as well as gold and silver bars in the treasure chests. You can learn about Taiwan's culture, wildlife and geology while focusing on topics such as anthropology, zoology and botany.

Enjoy the outdoors at Shifen Waterfall Credit: bigstock.com Shifen Waterfall

Enjoy the outdoors at Shifen Waterfall (Hotels nearby)

A natural wonder 65 feet high and 131 feet wide, the Shifen Waterfall is the widest waterfall in Taiwan. Nature lovers flock to this unique horseshoe-shaped waterfall as it is easy to enjoy the natural beauty of the area nestled on the Keelung River. Strap on your hiking shoes for a day of exploring its scenic trails or simply relax and admire the powerful wave of water cascading into the pool below.

Take a day trip to Jiufen Credit: bigstock.com Jiufen, Taiwan

Take a day trip to Jiufen (Hotels nearby)

Nicknamed the 'Santorini of Taiwan', Jiufen is worthy of a day trip. This small mountain town is located in the north-eastern region of Taiwan, east of Taipei, and is known for its small cobbled alleys in its picturesque old town. The streets are filled with historic teahouses, street food stalls and souvenir shops, while those who want to learn about its history as a mining centre in the Japanese-era gold rush can visit the Gold Mining Museum.

Admire colourful landscapes in Yangmingshan National Park Credit: bigstock.com Yangmingshan National Park

Admire colourful landscapes in Yangmingshan National Park (Hotels nearby)

You will find a wide range of scenic landscapes and native wildlife in Yangmingshan National Park, with opportunities to soak in the nearby hot springs. Admire the beautiful collection of plum, cherry, peach and pear trees, while spring visitors will be delighted by the cherry blossoms in full bloom. Visit Bamboo Lake to see its calla lily landscape, then stop to photograph the famous flower clock made up of a colourful display of seasonal flowers.