Curator’s statement
From my visit to Taipei in April 2025, I discovered that the city’s charm lives in its alleyways—those narrow, winding lanes, where hip bars glow behind hidden doors, third-wave coffee shops hum with conversation, and curated boutiques share space with centuries-old Chinese medicine shops steeped in herbal aromas. It’s this eclectic mix of trend and tradition that makes Taipei feel like a vibrant and modern city.
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Where to stay in Taipei
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Things to do in Taipei
Shilin Market
Museums
National Palace Museum: Home to one of the world’s largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts, spanning over 8,000 years of history.
Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) Taipei: A vibrant space showcasing Taiwanese and international contemporary artists in a historic building.
Markets
Shilin Night Market: Taipei’s largest and most famous night market. Try the giant fried chicken cutlet or oyster omelet.
Raohe Street Night Market: A smaller, more traditional vibe, with excellent street food like pepper buns baked in clay ovens.
Ningxia Night Market: A foodie favorite, known for traditional Taiwanese snacks and a more local crowd.
Views
Taipei 101 Observatory: For panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. It’s best at sunset or after dark.
Places to eat & drink in Taipei
Mango ice
Food
Din Tai Fung (Original Xinyi Location): A global dumpling legend that lives up to the hype. Don't miss the xiao long bao and braised beef noodle soup.
Jin Feng Braised Pork Rice: A local favorite for lu rou fan (braised pork rice). It's simple but incredibly flavorful.
Fei Qian Wu Hot Pot: A local favorite for individual-style hot pot with fresh meats, seafood, and vegetables. It's popular for lunch and casual dinners.
Mala Yuanyang Hot Pot: A lively, all-you-can-eat hot pot restaurant known for its dual spicy and non-spicy broths, plus a wide selection of ingredients and dipping sauces.
Ice Monster: Famous for its towering mango shaved ice, this dessert shop is a must-visit, especially during warmer months. It's light, refreshing, and great for sharing.
Yong Kang Beef Noodle: One of Taipei’s most beloved spots for rich, flavorful beef noodle soup with tender beef and handmade noodles. A staple of Taiwanese comfort food.
Coffee
Out of Office: A stylish, creative coffee space that doubles as a co-working hangout. It has great brews and an inspiring interior.
Fika Fika Café: Scandinavian-inspired design meets award-winning coffee. It's known for its light roasts and calm atmosphere.
Coffee Lab Roasters: A haven for coffee purists, with carefully sourced beans and a minimalist approach to brewing.
Drinks
Bar Without: A hidden speakeasy in Da’an, with inventive cocktails and a cozy, minimalist vibe. No sign, no menu—just trust the bartender.
Indulge Bistro: Helmed by a world-renowned mixologist, this upscale bar offers cocktails inspired by Taiwan’s landscapes and local ingredients.
Need to know
Getting around Taipei is simple and stress-free. The MRT (metro) system is clean, efficient, and clearly marked in both English and Chinese, making it easy for visitors to navigate. It’s also very affordable, with most rides costing less than a dollar. For added convenience, you can pick up an EasyCard, a reloadable transit card that works on the MRT, buses, and even in some taxis and convenience stores. Uber is also available and reliable in Taipei, offering a convenient alternative to taxis, especially if you’re heading somewhere off the main transit lines.
Taipei is known for being one of the safest cities in Asia, making it especially comfortable for solo travelers. Public transportation is not only reliable, but also secure, even late at night. The city is very walkable, with neighborhoods like Da’an, Yongkang Street, and Ximending offering a mix of cafes, boutiques, and street food stalls. Whether you’re hopping on the MRT or exploring side streets on foot, getting around the city is both easy and enjoyable.
Travel Advisor
Nancy Pappas
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Taiwan page.