7 Days in Taipei & Hualien: Taipei 101, National Palace Museum & More

Upon arrival at TPE, navigate immigration and baggage claim. Take the Airport MRT to Taipei Main Station (approx. 35-50 minutes, $5-6 USD) or a taxi directly to your hotel area (approx. 45-60 minutes, ~$40 USD).

"Good airport. Very easy to navigate. Not that big but provides all your need when travelling. Atm, sim cards, and other essentials available for tourist. Seats and power outlets are available for those in need. Basement food court provides good meal options and there are also stores after immigration. Queu at airline counters can get long since a lot of tourist visits the country. Self check in counters are available to print boarding passes for travellers convenience."— John Lorenz Panotes

Visit Taipei's most iconic landmark, a magnificent national monument dedicated to Chiang Kai-shek. Explore the main hall, museum exhibits, and the surrounding Liberty Square.

"An impressive landmark in Taipei. In a city full of hustle and bustle it's nice to have a large a serene space in the heart of the city. The monument itself is grand and imposing, with some interesting history on the 1st floor with the CKS museum. But the grounds are the most impressive with the square, grand entrances and the national theatre and national concert hall flanking the square."— Jonathan K.

Discover one of Taipei's oldest and most revered temples, an active place of worship showcasing intricate traditional architecture and vibrant spiritual practices.

"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ An extraordinary place — busy, layered, and very much alive. This Temple dates back to the 18th century and has survived earthquakes, war and constant change, which gives it a quiet authority. This isn’t a museum piece — it’s an active temple woven into everyday Taipei life. From the moment you enter, there’s a lot happening: waterfalls and ponds at the entrance, koi gliding through the water, incense thick in the air, and a striking mix of colour, sound and movement. Reds, golds, carved dragons everywhere you look — it’s unapologetic and full-on, but it works. What’s fascinating is the religious mix. Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism all coexist here, with Guanyin at the centre and a wide range of other deities people turn to for very practical concerns — health, work, exams, relationships. Locals come in, light incense, say a few quiet words, and head straight back into their day. It can be busy, especially compared to quieter temples, but that’s part of its character. You’re watching belief in motion, not a performance for visitors. Rich, atmospheric, and deeply rooted in daily life —Lungshan Temple feels like Taipei revealing itself rather than explaining itself. Well worth visiting, even if just to stand still and take it all in."— Robert Walshe

Stroll down Dihua Street, a historic street market known for its traditional goods, dried foods, Chinese medicines, and textile shops, offering a glimpse into old Taipei.

"Really enjoyed walking down Dihua Street and seeing all the market stalls. It was very busy and atmospheric. Many food and drink stalls offer free samples of their produce to try before you buy. Don’t only walk in the centre of the street as you’ll miss the permanent shops that are behind the market stalls. There were some really nice shops selling good quality products, so as well as enjoying looking at the food stalls, look at the shops behind them as well."— G Williams

Experience the lively atmosphere of Dadaocheng Wharf, transformed into a modern container market with food stalls, live music, and art installations along the Tamsui River. Enjoy the riverfront views as the evening sets in.

"A wonderful hidden gem away from tourists crowd in Taipei. A 10 mins walk from Dihua street. A great place to wind down with a pint of Taiwan beer or your favorite drink and snack, overlooking the water. It was quite peaceful in the evenings."— Ashwin Sundarajan

Immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of Xingtian Temple, a popular and vibrant place of worship dedicated to Guan Yu, the God of War. Observe local devotees offering prayers and take in the beautiful architecture.

"Visited on New Year’s Eve, and despite the rain, the temple was extremely crowded — it felt like there was a special ceremony or important ritual taking place that day. The atmosphere was very lively, spiritual, and full of energy, even in the rain. Xingtian Temple is one of Taipei’s most important temples, dedicated to Guan Yu (Guan Sheng Di Jun) — the god of loyalty, righteousness, and integrity. The temple is known for its strong emphasis on traditional values and disciplined worship. Unlike many temples, it does not encourage the use of incense, focusing instead on respectful prayer and mindfulness. Overall, it was a powerful cultural and spiritual experience, especially on such a meaningful day at the end of the year."— Cao Cao Akatsuki

Explore contemporary and modern Taiwanese art at the Taipei Fine Arts Museum, housed in a striking brutalist building. The museum showcases a diverse collection of local and international works.

"5/5 Taipei Fine Arts Museum is one of the most amazing museums I’ve been to. If you are interested in relevant thought provoking art, this is a must visit. There was an amazing curation of large exhibits as well as small ones, some larger than life. The rooms are so well organized and the art on display is varied and wonderful. They even have sections for kids to do activities, so you can definitely bring your kids here if they aren’t too loud. Would definitely visit again and recommend anyone visiting Taipei to drop by and see the art, it’s worth the visit. And at only 30NTD, it’s a museum with great value."— Elijah “Japs” Espino

Ascend to the Taipei 101 Observatory for breathtaking panoramic views of Taipei city and its surrounding landscape. Marvel at the engineering of this iconic skyscraper.

"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ A Must-Do in Taipei: Smooth Experience & Great Views! If you’re visiting Taipei, the Taipei 101 Observatory is worth every penny. We’ve been to several observatories globally, but this one stands out for its efficiency and cleanliness. Even with the crowds, the staff keeps everything moving like clockwork. The Highlights: • The View: Absolutely breathtaking. You get a 360-degree look at the city basin. On a clear day, the contrast between the urban sprawl and the green mountains is incredible. • The "101" Egg Waffles: Don’t skip these! We bought the ones shaped like the building itself—not only were they a fun photo op, but they were actually delicious and fresh. A great memorable snack while you take in the sights. • The Damper: Seeing the massive wind damper is a feat of engineering you shouldn't miss. • Souvenirs: Usually, gift shops are a pass, but the selection here is quite high-quality. They have unique items that go beyond the typical "tourist kitsch." Pro-Tips for Visitors: • Book Ahead: Buy your tickets online to skip the main queue at the kiosk. • Golden Hour: Try to time your visit for about 45 minutes before sunset so you can see the city in both daylight and evening lights. • Organization: The facility is incredibly well-maintained and easy to navigate, making it very family-friendly. Bottom Line: A polished, world-class experience. It’s more than just a tall building; it’s a great introduction to the scale of Taiwan’s capital."— Alan L

Wander through Huashan 1914 Creative Park, a former winery now transformed into a dynamic cultural and arts center. Browse unique shops, art exhibitions, and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

"I was surprised by how big this place was. Went on a random weekday and thought it looked pretty closed and small, but the building is long and has a LOT of shops in the building. They sell a huge variety of things from souvenirs to shoes, decorations, etc. that I spent quite some time and money here. They also have some pop up food stalls which were very good. It’s a nice place to visit, I recommend!"— Michelle

Dive into the bustling atmosphere of Raohe Night Market, one of Taipei's oldest and most famous night markets. Sample various Taiwanese street foods, play carnival games, and soak in the vibrant energy.

"Visiting Raohe in the middle of a cold January was easily a highlight of the trip. It’s one of those legendary Taipei night markets that actually lived up to the hype, and the winter chill honestly made the food taste better. The place is a total maze and gets so packed that you’re basically shuffling along in a sea of people, but the energy is incredible. We started with the Michelin pepper buns right at the entrance—the queue looks intimidating but moves fast. That charred, crunchy crust is no joke, and the peppery pork was so hot it practically warmed up my whole face (you just have to watch out for the boiling broth splashing everywhere). We also tracked down Chen Dong, which is exactly what you want when it’s freezing out. Their medicinal pork rib soup is dark and earthy, and the ribs are so tender the meat just falls off the bone. It feels like the kind of meal that actually does you some good. To mix it up, we hit Dong Fa Hao for their oyster vermicelli. Unlike the usual thick, starchy versions, theirs is clear and light, which was a nice break from all the heavier fried stuff. The real winner, though, was Mochi Baby. It’s another Michelin spot where they hand-prepare the mochi right in front of you. It was so soft and the peanut powder was so fresh that we ended up getting three separate orders because we couldn't stop eating it. Even with the crowds and the cold, every bite made the walk worth it."— Eivon Lauron

Discover the volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and hiking trails of Yangmingshan National Park, a beautiful natural escape in northern Taipei. Enjoy a refreshing walk amidst lush greenery and unique geological features.

"It used to be my favorite place during the weekend, a quiet escape from the busy pace of daily life. I like Yangmangshan in every season, as each time of the year gives it a different kind of beauty. In spring, the flowers bloom and the air feels fresh and calming. Summer brings lush greenery and a cool breeze that makes long walks enjoyable. Autumn paints the mountain in warm colors, while winter offers a peaceful and almost magical atmosphere. No matter the season, Yangmangshan always feels comforting and familiar to me."— Wong Chunmeng

Learn about the history and culture of Beitou's famous hot springs in this historic Japanese-era public bathhouse. Explore its architectural beauty and exhibits detailing the area's rich thermal spring heritage.

"The Beitou Hot Spring Museum is a lovely blend of history and local culture. Housed in an elegant old bathhouse, it offers fascinating displays about Taiwan’s hot spring traditions and the development of the Beitou area. A peaceful and enriching stop that enhances any trip to the hot springs district. I really enjoyed the Beitou Hot Spring Museum!- definitely worth dropping by if you’re in Beitou."— Sukanya Priyadarshini

Explore one of the world's largest collections of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts and artworks. Housing over 600,000 historical treasures, this museum offers a profound journey through Chinese history and culture.

"The National Palace Museum is an extraordinary cultural treasure and absolutely deserves five stars. The displays are beautifully curated and incredibly rich in history, showcasing priceless Chinese artifacts, calligraphy, jade, ceramics, and paintings. Each gallery is thoughtfully organized, allowing visitors to truly appreciate the depth and significance of the collection. The museum itself is spacious, well maintained, and easy to navigate, with clear explanations that enhance the experience even for first-time visitors. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in history, art, and Chinese culture. The only minor drawback is the limited variety of souvenir options. Given the world-class status of the museum, a broader selection of unique and high-quality memorabilia would greatly enhance the visitor experience. That said, the exceptional exhibits more than make up for it, making this museum an unforgettable and highly recommended visit."— DGP

Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of Shilin Night Market, one of Taipei's largest and most famous night markets. Beyond food, browse for souvenirs, clothing, and enjoy carnival games.

"We wanted to fully immerse ourselves in Taiwanese culture, so we visited the Shilin Night Market in search of plant-based native foods. We tried the grilled king oyster mushrooms, which were absolutely delicious, and the sweet potato balls, which were light and fluffy. We were daring enough to try The stinky tofu even though while we were waiting in line for about 30 minutes, we watched the vendor prepare several batches. While the odor during cooking was quite pungent, the tofu itself was surprisingly mild and flavorful once eaten. The addition of shredded cabbage and the sauce made all the difference. We also enjoyed the spicy cold noodles, which were tasty and refreshing, and ended our night with candied fruit on a stick, also known as tanghulu — sweet, colorful, and a perfect treat to finish our foodie adventure. Shilin Night Market is crowded, vibrant, energetic, and a must visit for anyone wanting to experience authentic Taiwanese street food and culture"— monica starke

Depart from your hotel and make your way to Taipei Main Station to catch your inter-city train to Hualien.

"Too many food stalls on the side lobby of Taipei Main Station… this is dangerous in case of emergency. It will block the easy access of people to exit. The homeless situation is getting worst Taiwan Railway Administration and Taipei City Hall must address this situations"— J T

Embark on a picturesque train ride along Taiwan's east coast, offering stunning views of mountains and the Pacific Ocean as you travel to Hualien.

"Very modern and well maintained. It’s much cleaner than the Taipei main station. There are not many restaurants or shops inside the station but enough to get a quick bite. Since it’s a major tourist destination, it’s very spacious to accommodate the crowds."— World Explorer

Immerse yourself in Hualien's vibrant arts scene at this park, featuring renovated historical buildings now housing art studios, shops, and cafes. Discover local crafts and cultural exhibitions.

"Is a nice place to see, they had some pop-up vendors selling nice arts and edibles. Location has a visitors center where you can get information on things to do in Hualien, good restrooms and vending machines. For children theres some activities to do. Overall this is a nice place."— Cocina Movil

Visit the historic Pine Garden, perched on a hill overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Explore its tranquil grounds, former Japanese military offices, and enjoy the sea breeze and scenic views.

"Pine Garden is a very peaceful hilltop overlooking the ocean. It has historical interest for Japanese and American tourists alike as it has Japanese roots and a period of U.S. use. Hualien is a laud back corner of Taiwan and well worth going off the beaten path to spend a few days. It is particularly exciting during the frequent earthquakes and typhoons😳"— dilberttf

Indulge in a diverse array of street food and local delicacies at Hualien's bustling Dongdamen Night Market. Explore its various sections, sample different snacks, and soak in the lively atmosphere.

"It was an amazing experience walking through this well set up, organised and clean massive night market! So much to see and so many food stalls to choose from. Tried the salted pork and oysters stall. E27 (if I'm wrong)It was sooo delicious and well worth the money Queued up for the French Toast Sandwich. Stall E80. Chose the Sichuan pepper pork filling and was pleasantly surprised to receive a small drink to go with it. A total of just 65TWD is such a bargain for such deliciousness. Plenty of proper sitting places to enjoy our food!"— Flora Tok

The Shakadang Trail is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise river, marble rock formations, and lush forests. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the river, experiencing the natural beauty and geological wonders of Taroko Gorge.

"I visited on 10 Dec and did the Dekalun Trail and then the trail further to Dali village, one of the few trails that are currently open. It starts right opposite the Visitor Center. Wonderful, but be prepared for a steep hike that requires good physical condition and good gear. It took me four hours round-trip with only short photo stops for c. 3.6 km one-way. The first third are over planks and stairs, then the trail becomes a real trail with rocks, two short sections where you can hold on to a rope until you reach Dali village which I think is definitely worth the visit. Be prepared for sudden weather changes; it was clear and sunny when I started but rained hard when I came down again, so the trail gets a bit slippery and rock falls can occur. Bring enough water! You can take the public bus at low cost (starts at Hualien) to the Visitor Center or an affordable taxi. If you don't have much time for Taroko, a great choice for those who like a strenuous but beautiful hike. You can shorten it by turning around at the end of the Dekalun Trail (I.e the planks and stairs section). Still steep but easier and a good choice for those who want to get a taste but are not up for the more challenging part. Calculate 1.5 hrs. for the short version plus time on the terraces to take in the views and the lush forest atmosphere."— donald duck

Walk through the carved tunnels of Swallow Grotto, observing the potholes created by the river and the swallows nesting in the cliff faces. Marvel at the sheer marble cliffs.

"It's a great place to spend a day exploring nature. After visiting the many nearby waterfalls, you can walk along the 2.5 km hiking trail, see many interesting natural formations, many small insects, and listen to the sounds of nature. Hikers along the Youth ridge trail should be aware that the hiking trail is damaged. It is an indescribably beautiful nature that you will never regret visiting"— Davaasuren Nyamtseren

Explore the small settlement of Tianxiang, home to Xiangde Temple, a pagoda, and suspension bridges offering panoramic views of the gorge and river. A tranquil spot for reflection.

"My 1st trip to Taroko, very senenic park. The view on the way is superb, there are ongoing construction on the route up which the damaged are from the 2024 earthquake. We stop over at Tianxiang to take photos, very beautiful place. There are many monkeys around, visitors need to beware as they are very aggressive when they saw you carry something on your hand. The monkeys will charge at you and snatch the items you carry. Other than that the monkeys are good model to take photos as they are not afraid of humans. Will come back again next time to head further into the park."— Loh Ricky

Marvel at the dramatic grandeur of the Qingshui Cliffs, where towering marble cliffs plunge directly into the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking panoramic views and fantastic photo opportunities.

"A beautiful gorge area, with amazing high rock walls. Scenic, historic road; narrow in places. Occasional parking places and only sporadic cafes once you have passed the Main Visitor Centre when passing east to west. Use the toilets at the visitor centre!"— Mark Godson

Relax and enjoy the tranquil beauty of Chishingtan Beach, known for its unique pebble shore and stunning crescent-shaped coastline. It's an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll and to catch the early evening ocean breeze.

"Really wonderful beach. The highland is an especially beautiful part. Be careful of the lady who is renting bicycles though, they are in terrible condition. Choose the cycles with wider tyres. The ones with thinner tyres are susceptible to punctures. Check brakes and tyre pressure as well. There is a restaurant on the beach but we didn't have time to try it out."— Rahul Kripalani

Explore a unique collection of stone sculptures, showcasing local and international artistry, with many pieces reflecting spiritual and natural themes native to Taiwan. This museum provides a serene cultural experience before your departure.

"This museum showcases an impressive collection of of stone carvings, along with exhibits featuring artworks and products made from trees. They also host special events to highlight featured displays. The entrance fee is $20 for regular visitors , with special discounts available for students ."— Angelique Rocacurva