City break (noun): a short holiday spent in a city, such as when on business travel.
Before there was bleisure travel, there was the city break—the short space of leisure time that grants you access to the cultural and culinary amenities that big cities offer. In this series from TripIt, we explore some of the world’s best cities for planning a quick getaway or extending a work trip.
With its efficient transit, world-class night markets, and seamless blend of nature and city life, Taipei is ideal for a short getaway that feels both energizing and restorative.
Here are our tips for making the most of your city break in Taipei, Taiwan.
Which airport to fly into for Taipei
Taipei is primarily served by Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), located about 25 miles west of the city center.
Once on the ground, the easiest way to reach downtown Taipei is via the Taoyuan Airport MRT. The express train connects the airport to Taipei Main Station in about 35-40 minutes.
You can also take airport buses, which serve major neighborhoods and hotels across the city.
Taxis and rideshares are readily available from TPE as well, with travel time to central Taipei typically ranging from 40-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Tip: Taiwan requires travelers to complete an online arrival card prior to entry. The process is quick and completing it ahead of landing helps streamline your arrival experience.
Flying from elsewhere in Asia? Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) is another option that primarily serves regional routes. Its proximity to downtown makes arrivals especially quick and convenient.
Where to stay in Taipei: Best areas and hotels
Taipei offers a wide range of accommodations depending on the vibe you’re after.
For a luxury stay with skyline views and easy access to shopping and dining, the Xinyi district is a great home base. This area puts you within walking distance of Taipei 101, upscale malls, and major transit connections. Hotels like Hanns House, Grand Hyatt Taipei, and W Taipei deliver polished comfort, standout views, and easy access to the city’s most modern attractions.
If boutique hotels and café culture are more your speed, consider Zhongshan. This neighborhood blends quiet streets, independent shops, and excellent restaurants while remaining close to Taipei Main Station. Consider a stay at Hotel Resonance Taipei or The Okura Prestige Taipei for a stylish yet relaxed base surrounded by local dining and design-forward cafés.
Looking for nightlife and energy? Ximending offers pedestrian-friendly streets, late-night eats, and easy metro access—perfect for travelers who want to stay in the middle of the action. Hotels like Amba Taipei Ximending and WESTGATE Hotel Taipei place you steps from shopping, street food, and vibrant nightlife.
Vacation rentals are also widely available across Taipei, especially in Da’an and Zhongzheng, offering a more local experience for longer stays.
Getting around Taipei: MRT, taxis, and rideshare
Part of Taipei’s charm is its walkability—especially in neighborhoods like Da’an, Zhongshan, and Xinyi. Plan accordingly by packing comfortable shoes for walking from place to place.
When walking isn’t feasible or desirable, Taipei’s public transit is exceptional. The Taipei Metro (also called MRT) is clean, safe, and easy to navigate, with signage in both Mandarin and English. It’s often the fastest way to travel between neighborhoods and major attractions. Taipei’s extensive bus network fills in the gaps where the Metro doesn’t reach.
Looking for micromobility options? Taipei’s YouBike bike-share system is widely available and integrates seamlessly with Metro stations, making it perfect for short neighborhood trips.
Taxis and rideshare services like Uber are also easy to find and relatively affordable compared to many major cities.
Where to eat in Taipei: Night markets, fine dining, and cafes
If you only have time for one meal in Taipei, make it a night market experience. Taipei’s night markets aren’t just places to eat—they’re cultural experiences filled with energy, aromas, and local specialties. Popular options (for a reason) include Raohe Street Night Market, Lingjiang (Tonghua) Night Market, and Shilin Night Market.
For more casual food options, you’ll find hot pot restaurants on nearly every block—perfect for a relaxed, satisfying meal. Veggenius is a must for plant-based dishes in a laid-back setting.
Looking for something more upscale? Locals and visitors alike rave about RAW, the design-forward restaurant offering modern Asian cuisine with tasting menus. You can also check out MUME; it’s consistently ranked as one of the top restaurants in the city and celebrated for its focus on local, sustainable ingredients. And for the ultimate fine dining experience, book a reservation at Le Palais. This legendary Cantonese fine-dining establishment is best known for its delicate dim sum and elegant multi-course banquets.
Speaking of multi-courses, don’t miss the sushi scene in Taipei. Make a reservation at Sushi Nomura or Yóu Sushi for memorable omakase experiences that rival those in Japan.
Have breakfast on the brain? For a classic Taiwanese breakfast, head to Fu Hang Soy Milk or Sihai Soy Milk for soy milk (naturally), dumplings, sticky rice, and more. Gan Mei Alley, Loco Food, and Wilbeck Cafe are also great options that feature both local and Western dishes. Want something you can grab and go? Ciao Ciao Scones is a cozy favorite for coffee and baked goods before a day of exploring. Just craving caffeine? You’ll be spoiled for choice with Taipei’s many (many!) coffee shops located on just about every block.
Tip: Use TripIt’s Nearby Places feature to easily find restaurants, cafés, and bars within walking distance of your hotel. Simply tap the restaurants option to view an interactive map, explore reviews and hours, and save spots directly to your itinerary for later.
Top things to do in Taipei
If this is your first time in Taipei, start with a walking tour of the city. I recommend the Old Town walking tour with TourMeAway; it offers helpful cultural context and is a great way to orient yourself early in your visit. And it’s free (but please tip your guide)!
Looking for culture and history? The National Taiwan Museum offers an accessible introduction to Taiwan’s history, while smaller galleries and creative spaces throughout the city showcase Taipei’s thriving arts scene. I’d also recommend visiting the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and a stroll through 228 Peace Park for a mix of architecture, reflection, and green space in the heart of the city.
Speaking of architecture, be sure to check out Taipei 101 and the surrounding Xinyi district. Whether you visit the observatory or simply enjoy the skyline views from nearby cafés, the area helps you get a feel for the city’s modern energy.
For family-friendly fun, Taipei Zoo and the Maokong Gondola offer a relaxing combination of nature and scenic city views.
Adults only? By day, get your shopping fix in the city’s many shops and boutiques. Head to Chifeng Street for independent boutiques and vintage shops. Yongkang Street is another great option for modern decor and charming souvenirs. The area is also known for its cafés and dessert shops. And for something completely different, head to Ximending; the lively pedestrian district is often compared to Tokyo’s Shinjuku.
By night, Taipei’s cocktail scene is quietly world-class. Hidden speakeasies, rooftop lounges, and craft cocktail bars throughout Zhongshan and Xinyi make for memorable evenings after a day of exploring.
Want to explore beyond the city center? Take a short trip to Jiufen for hillside tea houses and ocean views. Or head to Yangmingshan National Park for hiking trails, hot springs, and volcanic landscapes.
Frequently asked questions about planning a trip to Taipei
Q: What airport do you fly into for Taipei?
A: Most international travelers fly into Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), located about 25 miles from downtown Taipei. The Taoyuan Airport MRT express train connects the airport to Taipei Main Station in roughly 35-40 minutes, making it the easiest way to reach the city. Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) is another option, primarily serving regional routes and offering a quicker arrival due to its central location.
Q: What are the best hotels to stay at in Taipei?
A: The best hotel depends on your travel style. Xinyi is ideal for luxury stays and skyline views, with properties like Hanns House, Grand Hyatt Taipei, and W Taipei. Zhongshan offers boutique hotels, cafés, and a relaxed atmosphere with options like Hotel Resonance Taipei and The Okura Prestige Taipei, while Ximending is perfect for nightlife and shopping with hotels such as Amba Taipei Ximending and WESTGATE Hotel Taipei.
Q: Is it easy to use public transportation in Taipei?
A: Yes, Taipei’s public transportation is clean, safe, and extremely easy to navigate. The MRT (Metro) is often the fastest way to travel between neighborhoods, with English signage throughout the system. Buses, taxis, Uber, and the YouBike bike-share network make getting around even more convenient, and many neighborhoods are highly walkable.
Q: Where should I eat in Taipei?
A: Night markets like Raohe Street, Shilin, and Lingjiang (Tonghua) are must-visit destinations for classic Taiwanese street food and a lively cultural experience. For upscale dining, restaurants like RAW, MUME, and Le Palais are standout choices, while sushi spots such as Sushi Nomura and Yóu Sushi offer memorable omakase experiences. Don’t miss a traditional Taiwanese breakfast at Fu Hang Soy Milk or Sihai Soy Milk, plus Taipei’s thriving café scene.
Q: What are the top things to do in Taipei?
A: First-time visitors should explore Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and the National Taiwan Museum for a mix of modern skyline and cultural context. Shopping streets like Chifeng and Yongkang offer boutiques and cafés, while Taipei Zoo and the Maokong Gondola provide family-friendly experiences. For easy day trips, Jiufen and Yangmingshan National Park deliver tea house views, hiking, and hot springs just outside the city.
