When I arrived in Taipei, I had no specific expectations. I had listened to many travelers rave about Taiwan and its capital, but I intentionally chose not to do any research before my trip. I wanted to explore the streets and discover the city spontaneously. However, this approach is not the best way to experience Taipei, as the city is quite vast and spread out. Fortunately, the public transport system is easy to understand and well-connected. Below are some recommendations for first-timers hoping to uncover both the hidden treasures and the main attractions of Taipei.
Your First Time in Taipei
Once you land in Taipei, accessing the city via public transport is straightforward. There’s a direct train service from the airport to the city center, with just a few stops before reaching Taipei Main Station.
After you arrive, you have several options for getting around. The metro system is user-friendly and well-marked. If your hotel is near the train station, you might even choose to walk since the city is flat and the sidewalks are spacious for rolling suitcases. Lastly, you can opt for a taxi to take you directly to your hotel, though I suggest this is the least adventurous option!
Where to Stay in Taipei
Taipei offers a wide range of hotels and guesthouses. I opted to stay at CitizenM, as I was looking for a centrally located hotel. I love their simple yet stylish design, affordability, and, most importantly, fantastic city views! If you choose to stay at CitizenM, I recommend booking a room on a higher floor to truly appreciate the skyline.
Where to Eat in Taipei
Taipei is a paradise for food lovers, boasting a wide array of Taiwanese delicacies. For me, the sweets options are particularly enticing. After all, Taiwan is the birthplace of bubble tea (boba tea), and tea shops seem to pop up on nearly every corner.
One of my favorite dining spots was a quaint teahouse called Matcha One. As a huge fan of matcha, this was the only establishment I specifically researched before my trip in search of the best matcha in the city. This shop lives up to its reputation with rave reviews. Despite being a bit off the beaten path, I visited not once but twice to enjoy, without a doubt, the best matcha soft-serve ice cream I’ve ever tasted!
Another spot I highly recommend is Comida, which I discovered near my hotel while looking for coffee. Not only did they serve excellent coffee, but they specialize in famous Taiwanese cheese toasties topped with almond butter! While that might sound unusual, I assure you it was one of the best things I had in Taiwan, making it a perfect option for a budget-friendly breakfast.
Next on my list is Cookie DPT. Given my ownership of a cookie shop in Brisbane named Brooki Bakehouse, I often prioritize sweets and bakeries during my travels. Although their cookies were not quite my style—they were denser and drier compared to my preferred softer cookies—it was still an enjoyable visit. It’s exciting to see that the cookie trend has made its way to Taipei. If you’re interested in trying my kind of cookie, check out my online cookie class.
If you’re in the mood for bubble tea, be sure to check out Tao Tao Teahouse, which became my favorite spot (and trust me, I drank a lot of bubble tea while I was there).
Must-See Attractions in Taipei
The Taipei 101 Observatory is a must-visit for panoramic city views, and it’s particularly stunning at sunset.
The Beitou Hot Springs are a well-loved escape just 30 minutes from the city, perfect for relaxing away from the urban hustle.
For those seeking outdoor activities, the Xiangshan Trail offers a short 45-minute hike with breathtaking views of Taipei, especially as the sun sets.
If you’re keen on a day trip, Jiufen is a charming mountainside village with authentic teahouses, allowing you to step back in time.
