12 Jaw-Dropping Places in Taipei to Visit This Year

Taipei blew my mind from the moment I stepped out of the metro. Standing at the top of Taipei 101 at sunset, watching the city lights flicker on while storm clouds rolled over the mountains, I realized this city has a magic all its own. The mix of nature and neon, ancient temples and modern life, creates something totally unique.

From the steamy wonderland of Beitou’s hot springs (where I spent an entire day soaking in mineral pools surrounded by misty mountains) to the glowing paper lanterns of Shifen, these are the most beautiful places in Taipei that capture its incredible spirit. Trust me, this city serves up way more than just amazing night markets and bubble tea. Let me show you the spots that made me fall head over heels for Taiwan’s capital.

Top Sights to See in Taipei

Looking for the coolest things to do in Taipei? Relax at the rejuvenating Beitou Hot Spring, visit the iconic Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, and take a peaceful stroll through Daan Forest Park. Explore the historic Hobe Fort and dive into the city’s rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in sightseeing, relaxation, or local heritage, here are the top attractions to visit in Taipei.

1. Beitou Hot Spring

• 🏆 Best For: Wellness seekers 💆, nature lovers 🌿, history enthusiasts 🏛️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Steaming thermal waters, lush green surroundings, striking Japanese colonial architecture
• 📸 Top Experiences: Soaking in mineral-rich outdoor baths, visiting the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, strolling through Thermal Valley
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Grand View Resort Beitou – Luxury hot spring hotel with private thermal baths

Found the digital burnout with a therapeutic soak at Beitou Hot Spring in northern Taipei. The emerald-green waters of Thermal Valley create an otherworldly atmosphere as sulfurous steam rises from jade-colored pools.

These mineral-rich waters have drawn visitors since the Japanese colonial era. The striking Beitou Hot Spring Museum, housed in a preserved Japanese building, showcases Taiwan’s rich bathing culture.

Choose between traditional public baths or a private resort experience. The surrounding Yangmingshan National Park offers stunning trails through bamboo forests. As evening falls, lanterns illuminate the steam-filled air, creating a magical atmosphere unlike anywhere else in Taipei.

2. Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall

• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 📜, architecture admirers 🏛️, photography enthusiasts 📸
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Majestic white marble structure, meticulously landscaped gardens, impressive ceremonial guard changes
• 📸 Top Experiences: Witnessing the hourly changing of the guard, exploring the memorial’s museum exhibits, wandering through Liberty Square
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Grand Hotel Taipei – Historic landmark hotel with traditional Chinese palace architecture

Discover the cultural soul of Taiwan at the iconic Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall in central Taipei. This gleaming white structure with its blue octagonal roof showcases classical Chinese architectural principles at their finest.

The memorial’s grand staircase features 89 steps representing Chiang’s age at death. I could spend hours watching the precisely choreographed changing of the guard ceremony.

The surrounding Liberty Square spans 250,000 square meters of gardens and reflecting pools. The National Theater and National Concert Hall flank the complex, hosting performances year-round. Below the bronze statue, the museum displays fascinating artifacts from Taiwan’s complex modern history.

3. Daan Forest Park

• 🏆 Best For: Urban explorers 🌇, fitness enthusiasts 🏃‍♀️, families 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Lush green oasis amid urban landscape, serene lake, vibrant seasonal blooms
• 📸 Top Experiences: Cycling around the park’s trails, enjoying outdoor concerts at the amphitheater, relaxing by the ecological pond
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Hotel Eclat Taipei – Boutique design hotel within walking distance of the park

Find your urban sanctuary at Daan Forest Park, the perfect 26-hectare escape from your packed sightseeing itinerary. Often called the “Lungs of Taipei,” this meticulously designed oasis blends natural landscapes with recreational spaces in central Taipei.

The park’s tranquil lake features turtles sunning on rocks while koi fish glide beneath water lilies. Early morning here feels particularly magical as locals practice tai chi beneath swaying bamboo groves.

Winding pathways lead through flower gardens that burst with seasonal color. The vibrant community atmosphere comes alive at the amphitheater with free concerts. With playgrounds and even a public library, Daan truly functions as Taipei’s communal backyard.

4. Hobe Fort

• 🏆 Best For: Military history enthusiasts 🪖, coastal explorers 🌊, off-the-beaten-path travelers 🧭
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Strategic clifftop location, dramatic ocean views, well-preserved 19th-century fortifications
• 📸 Top Experiences: Exploring the historic cannon emplacements, walking the fortress walls, watching ships navigate the Tamsui River mouth
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Fullon Hotel Tamsui Fishermen’s Wharf – Waterfront hotel with panoramic harbor views

Step back in time at Hobe Fort, where colonial history comes alive on a dramatic headland in northern Taiwan. This strategic outpost where the Tamsui River meets the Taiwan Strait has been held by Spanish, Dutch, Qing Dynasty, and British forces.

The fortress’s red brick walls and cannons command impressive coastal views. I was fascinated by how clearly different colonial influences appear in the architecture and defensive designs.

The surrounding Tamsui District adds charm with historic streets and a waterfront promenade. After exploring, head to Fisherman’s Wharf for fresh seafood. Visit late afternoon to catch the legendary “golden river” sunset bathing the historic fortifications in amber light.

5. Longshan Temple

• 🏆 Best For: Cultural immersion seekers 🧘, architectural admirers 🏯, photography enthusiasts 📸
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Intricate wood and stone carvings, vibrant religious ceremonies, smoky incense-filled atmosphere
• 📸 Top Experiences: Observing traditional worship rituals, admiring the dragon-adorned pillars, exploring the surrounding Wanhua District
• 🏨 Where to Stay: CityInn Hotel Taipei Main Station – Modern boutique hotel near historic neighborhoods

Immerse yourself in living tradition at Longshan Temple, where centuries of spiritual practice continue in the heart of Taipei’s Wanhua District. Built in 1738 by immigrants from Fujian, this captivating sanctuary has survived earthquakes, bombings, and fires.

The temple’s breathtaking architecture features ornate stone and wood carvings depicting dragons and mythological scenes. I’ve never encountered a more vibrant spiritual atmosphere than during evening prayer sessions.

Multicolored ceramic figurines adorn the sweeping swallowtail roofs. Fortune tellers and vendors set up around the outer courtyard while chanting creates an immersive experience. Visit during major festivals to witness spectacular ceremonies that have remained unchanged for centuries.

6. Lovers Bridge

• 🏆 Best For: Couples 💑, sunset chasers 🌅, harbor view seekers 🚢
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Graceful white arch design, romantic nighttime illumination, stunning harbor backdrop
• 📸 Top Experiences: Watching the sunset over Tamsui River, seeing the bridge’s rainbow light display at night, strolling the Fisherman’s Wharf area
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Dandy Hotel Tamsui – Boutique hotel with river views near the night market

Capture Instagram-worthy sunset moments at Lovers Bridge, the most romantic spot in northern Taipei. This gleaming white pedestrian bridge curves elegantly across the waters of Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf like a sailing ship’s mast against blue harbor waters.

By day, the 196-meter span offers breathtaking views with Guanyin Mountain rising in the background. I’ve timed visits to catch both sunset and the evening light show—well worth planning around.

The bridge truly comes alive after dark when thousands of LED lights create changing rainbow patterns. The surrounding area enhances the experience with seafood restaurants and weekend markets. For the perfect evening, enjoy fresh seafood at a waterfront restaurant after the light show.

7. Maokong Gondola

• 🏆 Best For: Tea enthusiasts 🍵, nature lovers 🌿, panoramic view seekers 🏙️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Breathtaking aerial views of Taipei’s mountains and cityscape, lush tea plantations, tranquil atmosphere
• 📸 Top Experiences: Riding crystal cabin gondolas with glass floors, visiting traditional tea houses, hiking the surrounding trails at sunset
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Tea Garden Resort – Charming hillside accommodation surrounded by tea plantations with traditional tea-themed rooms and stunning valley views

Float above verdant tea plantations on the Maokong Gondola, transforming from city explorer to aerial adventurer in minutes. This 4.3 km cable car journey in southern Taipei delivers you to a world of traditional tea culture.

Stepping into the crystal cabin with its glass floor reveals lush mountains below while Taipei 101 pierces the distant skyline. The gondola connects directly to the Taipei Zoo MRT station, making it surprisingly accessible.

At the summit, charming hillside tea houses invite you to sample locally grown oolong while mountain breezes cool your face. As evening approaches, the city transforms into a twinkling wonderland—the perfect backdrop for that final cup of tea.

8. Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan)

• 🏆 Best For: Photographers 📷, fitness enthusiasts 💪, urban explorers 🧭
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Unrivaled views of Taipei’s skyline with iconic Taipei 101, lush subtropical forest, dramatic rock formations
• 📸 Top Experiences: Capturing sunset photos of the city, climbing to the famous Six Giant Rocks viewpoint, night photography of illuminated cityscape
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Grand Hyatt Taipei – Luxury hotel at the base of Taipei 101 with spectacular mountain views

Elevate your social media game at Elephant Mountain, home to Taipei’s most spectacular skyline views, just a 20-minute climb from Xiangshan MRT Station in eastern Taipei. This accessible urban hike winds through subtropical forest before revealing the famous Six Giant Rocks.

These massive boulders create perfect platforms for that epic shot of Taipei 101 dominating the urban landscape. The well-maintained stone steps make it manageable even in casual attire.

Timing matters here. Sunset transforms the city into a photographer’s dream as golden light bathes the skyscrapers. Bring a small flashlight for the descent after dark and prepare for a memorable evening capturing Taiwan’s capital from above.

9. National Palace Museum

• 🏆 Best For: History buffs 📜, art connoisseurs 🎨, culture seekers 🏛️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: World’s largest collection of Chinese artifacts, exquisite jade and bronze masterpieces, elegantly landscaped gardens
• 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing the famous Jadeite Cabbage, exploring the Qing and Ming dynasty treasures, strolling through the museum’s traditional Chinese gardens
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Imperial Garden Hotel – Luxury accommodation with traditional Chinese design elements, panoramic views of Yangmingshan, and exclusive early access museum tours

Marvel at imperial treasures spanning 8,000 years at the National Palace Museum in northern Taipei’s Shilin District. This world-class institution safeguards over 700,000 artifacts once housed in Beijing’s Forbidden City.

The museum’s crown jewel, the Jadeite Cabbage, showcases craftsmanship so delicate it leaves me speechless every visit. Equally impressive is the Meat-shaped Stone, jasper carved to resemble braised pork belly with uncanny realism.

The museum requires at least two hours to appreciate. Its elegant Chinese gardens offer peaceful respite between gallery visits. Pro tip: download the museum’s app for English audio guides and visit on weekday mornings to avoid tour groups crowding the most famous pieces.

10. Taipei Zoo

• 🏆 Best For: Families with children 👪, animal lovers 🐼, conservation enthusiasts 🌱
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Lush, naturalistic habitats, endangered species conservation, immersive Asian rainforest environments
• 📸 Top Experiences: Meeting the beloved giant pandas, exploring the Formosan Animal Area with native species, riding the rainforest shuttle train
• 🏨 Where to Stay: The Muzik Hotel – Family-friendly accommodations with themed rooms and easy MRT access to the zoo

Take a break from urban exploration at Taipei Zoo, where conservation meets family fun in the southern Wenshan District. This world-class facility creates spacious, naturalistic habitats where animals thrive in environments resembling their native ecosystems.

The undisputed stars are giant pandas Tuan Tuan and Yuan Yuan, whose names together mean “reunion.” Their bamboo-filled enclosure draws constant crowds. The well-designed Formosan Animal Area showcases Taiwan’s native wildlife, including endangered black bears.

Beat the heat on the shuttle train connecting distant exhibits. For the perfect day, combine your zoo visit with the adjacent Maokong Gondola for stunning mountain views. Arrive early on weekdays and take advantage of the dedicated MRT station.

11. Xinbeitou Hot Springs

• 🏆 Best For: Wellness seekers 🧖, architecture enthusiasts 🏯, history lovers 🏛️
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Steaming thermal valleys, Japanese colonial architecture, contrast of natural springs with urban setting
• 📸 Top Experiences: Soaking in public or private hot spring baths, visiting the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, exploring the ethereal Thermal Valley
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Grand View Resort Beitou – Traditional Japanese-style hot spring resort with private baths in each room

Soothe your travel-weary muscles at Xinbeitou, a world of steaming waters and Japanese-influenced elegance just 30 minutes from downtown Taipei by MRT. This therapeutic escape delivers instant relaxation in a historic setting.

The otherworldly Thermal Valley showcases emerald-green sulfuric waters creating a mystical scene amid rising steam. Nearby, the meticulously preserved Beitou Hot Spring Museum, housed in a 1913 Japanese bathhouse, tells the story of this historic spa district.

Experience healing mineral waters in public pools or splurge on private baths in traditional ryokan-style accommodations. After soaking, explore Beitou Park with its sulfur-scented streams. This retreat feels worlds away from Taipei’s urban energy while remaining remarkably accessible.

12. Yangmingshan National Park

• 🏆 Best For: Outdoor adventurers 🥾, flower enthusiasts 🌸, volcano explorers 🌋
• ✨ What Makes It Beautiful: Volcanic landscapes with fumaroles and hot springs, seasonal flower fields, misty mountain forests
• 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to Seven Star Mountain’s summit, viewing cherry blossoms in spring, soaking in Lengshuikeng’s outdoor foot baths
• 🏨 Where to Stay: Yangmingshan Tien Lai Resort & Spa – Mountain retreat with private hot spring facilities and panoramic views

Hike across active volcanic terrain at Yangmingshan National Park, just beyond Taipei’s northern edge. This accessible wilderness showcases Taiwan’s dramatic geology through steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pools, and therapeutic hot springs.

During February and March, the park transforms into a floral wonderland as cherry blossoms and azaleas paint the mountainsides pink. The park’s centerpiece, Seven Star Mountain, rewards hikers with sweeping views extending to Taipei’s skyline and the north coast.

Located just 30 minutes from downtown by bus, this natural escape feels like a different world. The geothermal activity creates natural hot spring areas like Lengshuikeng, perfect for resting tired feet in outdoor foot baths after exploring volcanic craters.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in Taipei  

Curious about the scenic highlights of Taipei? I often receive these questions about the must-see attractions in the area.

Where to explore in Taipei?

Taipei offers a diverse range of attractions to explore, catering to all kinds of travelers. For history buffs, the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall and Longshan Temple are must-visits. Nature enthusiasts will find solace in Yangmingshan National Park and the hiking trails in Nangang District. If you’re looking to relax, Beitou Hot Spring and Xinbeitou Hot Springs provide the perfect setting. For a unique blend of modernity and tradition, don’t miss Taipei 101 and Daan Forest Park.

Is Taipei a good tourist destination?

Absolutely, Taipei is an excellent tourist destination that offers a mix of urban and natural attractions. From towering skyscrapers and bustling night markets to serene temples and scenic parks, the city has something for everyone. It’s a top tourist sightin Taipei for its rich history, diverse culture, and delectable cuisine.

What is Taipei best known for?

Taipei is best known for its iconic skyscraper, Taipei 101, which was once the tallest building in the world. The city is also famous for its night markets, like Shilin and Raohe, where you can indulge in a variety of local foods. Cultural landmarks like Longshan Temple and museums like the National Palace Museum add to the city’s appeal.

What is a good month to visit Taipei?

The best time to visit Taipei largely depends on your preferences for weather and your tolerance for crowds and rain. Generally, the most favorable months to visit Taipei are:

1. October to December: This period is considered the best time to visit Taipei. The weather is cool and pleasant, with less humidity and rainfall compared to other months. The temperatures are comfortable for exploring the city and its surroundings.
2. Late February to April: This is also a good time, especially if you want to experience the cherry blossoms and other spring flowers. The weather is mild, although there’s a higher chance of rain compared to the fall.

Is 3 days in Taipei worth it?

Absolutely, three days in Taipei can give you a good taste of what the city has to offer. You can explore key attractions like Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, and take a dip in Beitou Hot Spring. You’ll also have time to sample local cuisine at one of the city’s famous night markets. While you won’t be able to see everything, you’ll definitely be able to cover a lot of ground and experience some of the best places to visit in Taipei. However, to fully immerse yourself in the city’s diverse attractions, a longer stay would be more fulfilling.

How many days in Taipei is enough?

A 5 to 7-day trip is ideal for experiencing the full range of Taipei’s beautiful places and attractions. This allows you to explore the city’s key landmarks, take day trips to natural wonders like Yangmingshan National Park, and even venture out to nearby towns or districts. With a week at your disposal, you can also indulge in the local cuisine, shop for souvenirs, and perhaps enjoy a night out in the city’s vibrant entertainment districts. This time frame provides a well-rounded experience, letting you see why Taipei is one of the best places to visit in the region.

Is Taipei cheap for tourists?

Taipei offers a range of options to suit different budgets. While it’s not the cheapest Asian city, it’s relatively affordable compared to Western destinations. Accommodation, food, and public transport are reasonably priced, making it a good destination for budget travelers as well.

What is the coldest month in Taipei?

The coldest month in Taipei is usually January. During this time, the average temperature can range from around 14°C (57°F) to 19°C (66°F). While this is cold for Taipei, it’s relatively mild compared to many other places experiencing winter. The weather is generally cool and damp, with occasional rain. It’s a good idea to bring a jacket and an umbrella if you’re visiting Taipei in January.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in Taipei

Taipei is a city that effortlessly blends the old with the new, the natural with the urban, and the traditional with the modern. From the towering heights of Taipei 101 to the tranquil waters of Beitou Hot Spring, this city offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to all types of travelers. Whether you’re an adventure seeker looking to conquer the trails of Elephant Mountain, a history buff eager to explore the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, or a foodie ready to dive into the city’s bustling night markets, Taipei has something for you.

But beyond the landmarks and the tourist spots, what makes Taipei truly special is its ability to offer moments of serenity amidst the hustle and bustle, pockets of nature amidst its sprawling skyline, and glimpses of the past amidst its rapidly advancing present. It’s a city that invites you to explore, to discover, and most importantly, to feel. From its stunning locations to its beautiful places, Taipei is not just a destination; it’s an experience that stays with you long after you’ve left.

So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, fly to Asia, and set off on an adventure to explore the most beautiful places in Taipei. Trust us; it’s a trip you won’t regret.