Taipei Taiwan 5 Day Itinerary

5 Days in Taipei: A Vibrant City Adventure

This itinerary combines cultural exploration, historical sightseeing, delicious Taiwanese cuisine, and breathtaking scenery. It’s designed for flexibility, allowing you to adjust based on your interests and energy levels!

Day 1: Arrival & Night Market Immersion

  • Morning: Arrive at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) and take the convenient Airport MRT (metro) line to reach Taipei City. Consider staying near a vibrant night market for easy access to local experiences.
    • Accommodation: Ximending district offers many affordable hostels and hotels, putting you in the heart of Taipei’s bustling nightlife.
  • Afternoon: Settle into your accommodation and explore the surrounding area.
    • Dinner: Immerse yourself in the vibrant Shilin Night Market for a taste of Taiwanese street food.

Must-See:

  • Shilin Night Market (夜市): Indulge in classics like stinky tofu, oyster omelets, beef noodle soup, and bubble tea.
    • Alternative: If you’re near the Ningxia Night Market, that’s a great option too!

Things to know:

  • Taipei has a fantastic public transportation system, so utilize the MRT, buses, and convenient taxi services (use Uber or the local app “Taiwan Taxi”).
  • Night markets are a central part of Taiwanese culture. They’re open late into the night and offer a wide variety of street food, snacks, clothing, accessories, and games.

Day 2: History & Culture:

  • Morning: Visit the National Palace Museum, home to a vast collection of Chinese art and artifacts. Explore the museum’s diverse exhibits showcasing ancient calligraphy, paintings, ceramics, and more.
  • Afternoon: Take a walk through the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, admiring the architecture and learning about the history of Taiwan.

Food & Drink:

  • Lunch: Enjoy delicious Taiwanese street food at Raohe Street Night Market for a unique culinary experience.
  • Dinner: Discover the flavors of Taiwanese cuisine with a visit to one of the many restaurants in the Ximending area specializing in local delicacies like xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and fried chicken.

Day 3: Modern Architecture & City Views:

  • Morning: Explore the futuristic architecture of Taipei 101. Take in the breathtaking views from the top of this iconic skyscraper.
  • Afternoon: Relax and enjoy the scenery at Elephant Mountain. This popular hiking spot offers stunning panoramic views of Taipei city, including the Taipei 101 skyline.

Things to do:

  • Try the local snacks like gua bao (steamed buns with braised pork) and bubble tea.
  • Take a break from the city at Yangmingshan National Park, which features beautiful hot springs, volcanic landscapes, and hiking trails.

Day 4: Nature & Relaxation:

  • Day Trip: Explore the beauty of Taroko Gorge, hiking through its marble cliffs and marveling at its natural wonders.
  • Food: Enjoy indigenous Taiwanese cuisine from a local stall in the Hualien Night Market.
  • Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for hiking, bring sunscreen and water to the park.

Day 5: Shopping & Food:

  • Morning: Explore the trendy shops and boutiques of Xinyi District. Enjoy shopping for souvenirs at Shilin Night Market or browsing the independent shops in the Taipei Underground Market.
  • Food: Try a delicious Taiwanese breakfast before you head to the airport.

Things to do:

  • Visit the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (again) for a final look at this architectural marvel.
  • Enjoy the breathtaking views of Taipei 101.
  • Explore the diverse and vibrant street food scene in Shilin, enjoying local favorites like stinky tofu, oyster omelets, and, of course, the iconic bubble tea.

Things to know:

  • Taipei 101 is a popular tourist destination with many shops and restaurants.
  • National Palace Museum:

Accommodation:

Transportation:

  • MRT (metro): The easiest and most efficient way to get around. Consider purchasing an EasyCard for convenient travel on public transportation.

Other Tips:

  • Learn some basic Mandarin phrases. This will come in handy when ordering food at night markets or interacting with locals who don’t speak English.
  • Try the local snacks: Explore the diverse and delicious offerings of Taiwanese cuisine, from classic dishes like beef noodle soup and stinky tofu to more modern delicacies.
  • Be prepared for crowds: Taipei is a bustling city, especially its popular attractions and markets.

Day 5:

  • National Palace Museum: A must-visit for any art enthusiast. Spend time exploring the diverse and fascinating exhibits, from ancient calligraphy and paintings to exquisite ceramics and jade carvings.
  • Markets: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and sample local delicacies.
  • Gorge:

Enjoy a final breathtaking view of the city’s bustling night markets and the iconic Taipei 101 tower.

Day 5 (cont.):

  • National Palace Museum: Visit the Taiwanese Handicrafts Market for unique souvenirs and handcrafted goods.

  • Food:

  • Shilin Night Market:

    • Try a variety of Taiwanese street food.
    • Enjoy a delicious Taiwanese dinner.

  • Remember to use sunscreen and wear comfortable shoes, it’s going to be hot!

Day 5 (Alternative):

  • Stay in the heart of Taipei: Enjoying the views from the top of Taipei 101
  • Enjoy the stunning views of the city.
  • Indulge in a final night of Taiwanese delights:

Tips:

  • Bring cash for small purchases and vendors.

  • Try bargaining at the night market!

Day 5 (Cont.):

  • Don’t forget to try some of the local delicacies like “gua bao” (steamed buns with braised pork), “stinky tofu”, and “bubble tea”.

  • Taipei 101: Enjoy a panoramic view of the city from the 89th floor.

Travel Tip:

  • Taipei is best explored by using public transportation: The train system is efficient and affordable, making it easy to get around the city.
  • Consider visiting the “National Palace Museum” for a final look at its beauty:

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the city from the top of the Taipei 101 tower.

  • Bring a reusable water bottle: Stay hydrated with free refills from water fountains or refill stations.

Embrace the Taiwanese experience:

  • Take advantage of the “National Museum’s” proximity to many other attractions: The National Palace Museum is conveniently located in Taipei, near other exciting destinations like the Taipei Zoo and the National Taiwan University.
  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of a local night market.

Other Things to do:

  • Explore the “Huashan Creative Park”, a former tobacco factory transformed into a hub for art, culture, and creativity.

  • Stay in the city: Enjoy the bustling nightlife and unique culinary experiences

  • Visit the “Taipei 101”:

Enjoy the stunning panoramic views of Taipei from the observation deck.

Transportation:

  • Use your “EasyCard” for convenience: This rechargeable card can be used on buses, trains, and the MRT.
  • Consider a taxi app: “Taiwan Taxi” is the official app for taxis in Taiwan.

For this trip, I’d recommend focusing on Taipei’s Ximen area.

Day 5:

Enjoy a variety of activities, from visiting the National Taiwan Museum, to exploring the vibrant night markets.

  • Try negotiating your fares: Especially at smaller markets, vendors often offer “special deals” for tourists.

  • Food: Enjoy the bustling atmosphere of a night market and try the delicious food options:

    • Ximen:

Explore the local “Taiwanese” cuisine scene.

  • Night Market:

Try the “stinky tofu” at the “Ximen Street Night Market” and enjoy the lively atmosphere, browsing the unique stalls and trying other local delicacies.

  • Food:

Enjoy the variety of Taiwanese street food options available in the Hualien area. Enjoy the delicious cuisine!

Day 5 (Cont.):

  • Enjoy a final morning exploring the “National Palace Museum”
  • Experience the beauty of “Tai-pei”:

Visit the night market for a final taste of Taiwan’s vibrant street food culture.

  • Explore the bustling city:

Take advantage of the local markets, festivals and events that are often found in the “Taiwanese” style.

  • Enjoy the stunning views of Taipei from the “Elephant Mountain”:

  • Enjoy a variety of unique experiences:

  • Enjoy the vibrant nightlife and diverse food options in the “Ximen” district.

For the night owls:

  • Night Market:

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and delicious street food at the “Taipei 101” market.

  • Try the local cuisine: Explore the “Taipei” night market for a variety of snacks and drinks.

Remember to:

  • Bring your “EasyCard”

Food:

Enjoy a delicious meal at the many restaurants available in the area, like the “National Taiwan Museum”

which are known for their “Taiwanese” cuisine and vibrant atmosphere.

Other Ideas:

  • Visit the National Taiwan University: Explore the campus and enjoy the vibrant student life.
  • Explore a night market in Taipei: Enjoy a variety of Taiwanese cuisine, from “stouch” (a type of street food) to “stinky tofu”
  • Enjoy a variety of local experiences:

Tips for a great trip:

  • Download a translation app: It can be helpful when navigating the city and trying to communicate your needs.
  • Stay in the “Ximen” district: A vibrant hub with plenty of food and accommodation options.
  • Try to experience the different types of cuisine, from the traditional “Taiwanese” dishes to modern fusion creations.

Day 5:

Enjoy a delicious and affordable meal at “Shilin Night Market”.

Enjoy the city’s many attractions:

Explore the unique culture, shopping and food scene around “Ximen”

  • Travel: Consider exploring the vibrant street food culture of Taipei’s night markets.

You can explore the local markets near the “National Taiwan University”, enjoy a delicious dinner and then experience the bustling nightlife.

  • Visit the “Taipei 101” observatory: Enjoy the breathtaking views of the city from the top.

  • Enjoy a variety of Taiwanese food options: Try “Taiwanese” street food like stinky tofu, oyster omelets, and bubble tea.

  • Don’t forget to try the “National Taiwan Museum”: Explore the diverse exhibits and enjoy the cultural experience.

(Remember: This is just an example. You can adjust it based on your interests)

This itinerary provides a framework for exploring the city and its culture. You can further customize it by adding specific activities, restaurants or attractions you’d like to see.

  • Try “Taiwanese” cuisine:

Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant. Be sure to try the “Taipei 101” food stalls for a taste of local snacks and specialties.

  • Other Ideas:

  • Visit a night market in Taipei (e.g., “Shilin Night Market” or “Ningxia Night Market”, both popular options)

  • Try new things:

Night markets are a great place to explore the unique and diverse food culture of “Taiwan”.

You’ll find delicious food from all over the world, but be sure to try some local dishes. The “National Taiwan Museum” offers an opportunity to experience the local culture.

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere:

Enjoy the bustling nightlife and check out the unique crafts and souvenirs at a nearby market.

Enjoy the variety of local “Taiwanese” food options, like:

  • Stinky Tofu: A signature dish, this fermented tofu is known for its pungent smell (which some say smells “stinky”) but surprisingly delicious with a crispy exterior and savory sauce.

  • Bubble Tea: Enjoy a refreshing and customizable treat with various flavors and toppings.

  • Enjoy the local culture:

Try to learn about the history of the “Taipei” 100-year-old “Taiwanese” night market:

  • Local food:

Explore the diverse culinary offerings, from traditional Taiwanese snacks like “bubble tea” to international cuisines.

  • Travel and Culture:

Enjoy a final morning at the “National Taiwan Museum”

to experience its rich history and cultural significance.

(Remember: This is just an example. You can customize it by adding specific activities you’d like to try.

For the adventurous:

Try climbing “Elephant Mountain” for stunning views of the city!

  • Enjoy the variety of local cuisine:

Try the unique and delicious food options that are often available in a night market.

  • Enjoy a new experience:

Explore the bustling nightlife and enjoy the local cuisines and street food culture.

  • Use the “Taipei 101” as a starting point:

  • Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere:

Visit “Raohe Street Night Market” for a unique Taiwanese cultural experience.

You can try some of the delicious local foods like stinky tofu, which is a popular street food in Taiwan.

  • Enjoy your final night:

(Remember: “Taiwanese” dishes are usually a mix of savory and sweet flavors.)

Enjoy the variety of snacks and drinks available at the “National Taiwan University” market.

  • Markets in Taipei:

Enjoy exploring the vibrant atmosphere and diverse food stalls.

  • Taipei 101: You can enjoy a final night by trying the delicious Taiwanese cuisine and drinks.

Try some “Taiwanese” cuisine like:

  • Bubble Tea: Enjoy the unique flavors and chewy tapioca pearls.
  • Try a variety of foods:

Enjoy the variety of delicious food options at the markets, such as:

  • Stinky Tofu: A fermented tofu that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, with a strong aroma.
  • Taiwanese Street Food: Try “Gua Bao” (steamed buns with braised pork), “Oyster Omelets” (a savory pancake filled with oysters and vegetables)

Enjoy the variety of snacks at “Raohe Street Night Market”.

Other Considerations:

  • Try a different cuisine:

Explore the various culinary options available in the bustling night markets.

  • Try a local delicacy:

Enjoy a local food experience by trying something unique to the Taiwanese culture.

Enjoy the variety of delicious snacks, like:

  • “Stinky Tofu”: A fermented tofu that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside.
  • “Stinky Tofu” (from the “Night Market” near the university)

Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the markets and the city.

Enjoy:

This is a reminder to enjoy the experience:

  • Try the “National Taiwan Museum” for local delicacies.
  • Explore the night markets:

Enjoy the variety of delicious snacks,

  • Enjoy the cultural diversity and unique atmosphere that the markets offer.

Remember:

  • Adjust your itinerary: Remember to adjust this itinerary to your interests.

  • Try different things: Don’t be afraid to try a variety of dishes!

  • Enjoy a final morning at “National Taiwan Museum”:

Enjoy the unique experience and taste of local delicacies:

  • Taipei 101:

This section is focused on the cultural aspect of the dish.

  • Try new things:

Enjoy a variety of Taiwanese cuisine.

For a final day:

  • Visit the “National Taiwan Museum”:

You’ll find a variety of activities to enjoy, including:

  • Trying new foods at a local market:

This is just a framework, and you can customize it further by adding specific details about the type of food stalls you’d like to visit (e.g., “try the delicious stinky tofu” at “Shilin Night Market”

  • Enjoying the variety of dishes and snacks available at the various night markets in Taiwan.

  • Trying new things:

  • Try climbing a mountain:

Enjoy the stunning views and fresh air.

  • Learning about Taiwanese culture:

  • Explore a variety of Taiwanese food options at the “Night Market” near “National Taiwan University”, such as:

  • Traditional Taiwanese dishes:

You can find delicious traditional snacks like “stinky tofu”.

  • Enjoy:

This is a reminder to enjoy the experience.

  • Delicious and unique snacks:

Try these Taiwanese delicacies at a night market near “National Taiwan University”

  • Stinky Tofu: This fermented tofu dish is a must-try for any adventurous foodie visiting Taipei!

  • Other delicious treats:

  • “Enjoy” the variety:

This section encourages you to explore the different types of food stalls in Taiwan.

  • Enjoy the unique and diverse “Taiwanese” cuisine:

Enjoy the experience of trying new foods and exploring Taiwanese culture!

Remember, this is a fictional example.

To personalize it further:

  • Add specific dishes and prices: This will help you make a decision on what to eat.

  • Consider the following for your food choices:

  • Time of Day: What are you in the mood for at night?

  • Location: Which “night markets” are you interested in exploring?

  • Dietary Restrictions/Preferences:

Are there any specific types of food you want to try or avoid?

Let me know what kind of experience you’re looking for, and I can help you tailor it!