4 Day Taipei Itinerary

View of Taipei and Taipei 101 from Elephant Mountain on a sunny day

Taipei is one of the most underrated cities in the world. With convenient public transportation, a booming food scene, stunning natural landscapes, and a rich history and culture, it’s easily one of the top travel destinations in Asia.

As someone who’s lived there for four years, it always amazes me just how much there is to do and just how quickly the city changes.

So if you’re visiting this modern city for the first time, here’s everything you should include in your 4 day Taipei itinerary from a local’s perspective.

Gi Shieh, east asian blogger wearing white dress at lao mei green reefs in new taipei
View of traditional chinese houses in Taipei from the children's amusement park in Shilin

Logistics

How Many Days To Spend In Taipei:

As someone who grew up in New York City, Taipei is tiny. Now don’t get me wrong, there’s still plenty to do, but if you’re tight on time, 3-5 days is enough time to spend in Taipei. This 4 day itinerary covers two days of exploring the city and then two additional day trips outside the city.

What To Know Before Visiting:

Transport:

  • Taipei has two airports: Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) and Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). If you’re flying in internationally, you’re going to arrive at Taoyuan. To get from Taoyuan Airport to the city center, you can take the Taoyuan Airport MRT or book a private transfer.
  • Taipei’s got great public transportation. The extensive subway system (MRT) and bus routes get you anywhere you need to go. Access these with an Easy Card that can be pre-purchased online or bought at the airport MRT station.

Communication:

  • While there are more than 5,000 WiFi hotspots in Taipei, I still recommend that you get an eSIM just in case you need to look up information on the fly or access to translation apps. You can purchase one online and activate it just before you arrive, buy a physical one for pick-up at the airport, or buy a pocket wifi as an alternative.
  • If you’re traveling to Taipei, make sure that you download Google Maps, Google Translate, and Uber! They’ll make your experience that much more pleasant.

Insider Tips:

  • Save money with the Taipei Fun Pass! These packages give you access to transportation and 25+ popular attractions including the Taipei 101, National Palace Museum, and Yehliu GeoPark!
  • Book accommodations at least 2-3 weeks in advance. I find the best deals on Agoda but you use any platform that you like. We’ll talk about best neighborhoods to stay in a little later on.
  • Klook is by far the best platform to use if you’re looking for discounts on tours, restaurants, and travel in Taipei. Just double check that the experience is hosted in English!
  • Make sure to take out enough cash! ATMs can be found all around (banks, 711s, post offices, etc) and most department stores will take card, but a lot of small businesses and street vendors only take cash.

Where To Stay In Taipei

Taipei is a pretty compact city so regardless of where you stay, it’s pretty easy to get from one point to another. However, if you’re visiting for the first time, here are a few neighborhoods that I would recommend staying in. 

  • Taipei Main Station: most convenient location, there are some homeless populations around here though
  • Daan: quieter neighborhood, best for foodies, strong expat community
  • Ximending: best for young budget travelers that are into street culture
  • Zhongshan: hip and trendy neighborhood with great shopping, restaurants, and bars
  • Xinyi: upscale neighborhood for luxe travelers, somewhat far from some locations

Regardless of which neighborhood you choose, I recommend finding a hotel that’s within 5-10 minutes walking distance from the closest MRT stop.

Plane wing in the clouds at sunset
View out the dashboard on the road from Taoyuan airport to Taipei

Day 1: City Exploration

Fly In + Get Settled

Once you arrive, you’ll turn your eSIM on and take the Airport MRT or a private transfer to the city center. If you can, drop your luggage off at your accommodation but if that’s not possible, you can find locker storage at some MRT stations (complete list here). They usually run for $20NT/hr for a large storage space and $10NT/hr for a small storage space.

Taiwanese breakfast featuring dan bing (egg omelettes) on a table

Start Your Day With A Classic Taiwanese Breakfast

They always say that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, so start your travels off strong with a classic Taiwanese breakfast!

Some Of My Favorite Menu Items:

  • Dan Bing (蛋餅): rolled egg crepes
  • Shao Bing You Tiao (燒餅油條): fried cruller sandwiched in clay oven rolls (best dipped in soy milk)
  • Dou Jiang (豆漿): soy milk (often available sweetened, unsweetened, or salty)
  • Fan Tuan (飯糰): glutinous rice balls often filled with pork floss, you tiao (fried cruller), and dried salted radish
  • Luo Buo Gao (蘿蔔糕): seared bite-sized radish cakes served with a savory sweet soy sauce

Some Iconic Breakfast Spots To Check Out:

But for this itinerary, I’m going to recommend Da Cheng Breakfast (大城早午餐) or Mai Xiang Bao Breakfast Restaurant (麥香堡早餐店) because they’re close to our next destination.

Brown traditional exterior gate of Longshan Temple in Taipei, one of the key attractions to include in your 4 day Taipei itinerary.

Experience Culture at Longshan Temple

Longshan Temple (龍山寺) is arguably the most famous temple in Taipei. It was created in 1737 by Chinese settlers and is located in Wanhua District, the oldest district in the city.

The temple honors a unique mix of religions including Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and local folk religions. Architecturally, it exhibits intricately painted murals, carved wood and stone, and a caisson.

I recommend visiting early in the morning as it can get pretty crowded but if you want to see the temple at its liveliest, you should come during one of the three daily chanting ceremonies (6am, 8am, and 3:45pm). The dress code is pretty casual but be respectful and do your best to stay out of people’s rituals.

When you’re done with the temple, I recommend strolling around the neighborhood. While it’s not necessarily the cutest, it does offer plenty of juju spunkiness with alleys full of fortune tellers and even specific street dedicated to medicinal herbs.

Blue and white Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall in Taipei against a partly cloudy blue sky.
Colorful facades of the National concert hall near Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall In Taipei.

Learn About Taiwan’s Political History At Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall

The Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall ( 中正紀念堂) with its white marble walls and deep blue roof, is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Taipei. This national monument was created in memory of Chiang Kai-Shek, the first president of Taiwan, and stands as a symbol of freedom, equality, and brotherhood.

The main hall showcases exhibitions about the country’s political history and the grounds of Liberty Square (中正紀念堂廣場) are sometimes used for international performances and festivals.

It’s worth watching the changing of the guards’ ceremony which happens every hour, on the hour, from 9am – 5pm.

Entrance to the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is free and once you’re done with this attraction, you can walk around the grounds and explore the National Theater Hall (國家戲劇院) and National Concert Hall (國家音樂廳) to the left and right of the building.

If you have extra time and want to learn more about Taiwan’s political past, you can also visit the nearby Presidential Palace (總統府) and 228 Peace Memorial Park (臺北二二八和平紀念公園). The Presidential Palace was built in 1912 during Japanese colonial rule and is where the president works today. (To see the inside, sign up for a guided tour.) 228 Peace Memorial Park commemorates the victims who were violently suppressed by the Kuomintang–led nationalist government during a protest in 1947.

Mango snow shaved ice from Ice Monster on Yong Kang Street In Taipei
Buildings in Taipei against a blue sky on Yong Kang Street

Eat Your Way Through YongKang Street

After a morning full of culture, it’s time to replenish at YongKang Street (永康街), one of the most vibrant streets in Daan District. This street is popular with locals and tourists alike as you can find a wide range of restaurants, street food stalls, and small shops featuring handmade goods. It’s a great place to grab lunch and coffee and maybe pick up a few souvenirs on the way.

What To Eat At YongKang Street:

View of the Taipei 101 at sunset from the Zhang Men Brewery rooftop bar
View of Taipei at night from Taipei 101

View Taipei From The Top Of The Taipei 101

Next up on the itinerary is Taipei 101, the tallest building in all of Taipei. Located in Xinyi District, it offers panoramic views of the city on a clear day.

The bottom few floors house some of the world’s top luxury stores, the middle few floors function as office space, and the top few floors highlight several observation decks.

To visit, I recommend purchasing a fast track pass to skip the lines. You can also grab a coffee with views at kafeD Taipei 101 Shop on the 89th floor or Simple Kaffa on the 88th floor.

Once you’re done admiring the view, you can head downstairs to do some shopping either in the building or around the surrounding Xinyi area. If you’re craving a bite to eat, there is a Din Tai Fung in the basement.

To take photos of the 101, I recommend visiting the Zhangmen Rooftop Bar (掌門精釀啤酒 – 微風松高店) at the neighboring Breeze department store. You can also climb Elephant Mountain for a more active and memorable option!

Red and orange Raohe Night Market Taipei gate at night
Breaded and fried mushrooms in a cup from Raohe Night Market in Taipei

Take A Stroll Through Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall

Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall (國立國父紀念館) is another iconic landmark of the city. It was built in 1972 and memorializes Taiwan’s founding father.

The building features a modern design that blends traditional Chinese architectural elements including an elegantly curved yellow roof and classic elements of red bricks, yellow tiles, and green forest.

The main building showcases several exhibitions that offer insight into Sun’s life and revolutionary efforts as well as rotating exhibitions from famous contemporary artists.

Entrance is free and like the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, there is a changing of the guard ceremony that happens every hour at the full hour. It’s currently closed for renovations but you can walk around the plaza and gardens!

Sun yat sen memorial hall in taipei from an angle at night.
Sun yat sen memorial hall in taipei from the front.

Dinner At Raohe Night Market

Taiwan is famous for night markets and Raohe Night Market (饒河街觀光夜市) is one of the most popular options! It’s located in Songshan District and a consistent favorite among foodies.

What To Eat At Raohe Night Market:

It’s been a long day, so once you’re done with dinner! Head back to the lockers to grab your luggage, check in, and get settled for the evening!

Taiwanese man wearing blue jacket sitting in front of bags of goods to sale at a traditional market in Wanhua District, Taipei.
Line of vendors setting up goods for sale at a traditional market in Taipei.

Day 2: A Taste Of Historic Taipei

Breakfast At The Local Market

Get a local look at Taipei by starting your day at the morning market. Regardless of where you’re staying, there’s probably one just a few blocks away. Morning markets are a great place to pick up local produce, some street snacks, and of course, breakfast!

Here Are Some Morning Markets Around Taipei:

Qingguang Market (晴光市場)
Shuanglian Market (雙連菜市場)
Jianguo Market (建國市場
Zhongshan Market (中山市場)

View of a teal pagoda from the restaurant at the top of the National Palace Museum near Taipei
Jade separator at the National Palace Museum in Taipei

Admire Art + Artifacts At The National Palace Museum

If you’re going to visit any museum in Taipei, let it be the National Palace Museum (國立故宮博物院).

With over 700,000 pieces of ancient Chinese artifacts and artworks spanning over 8,000 years of history, the National Palace Museum is by far one of the most important museums in the Chinese speaking world.

The collection was transported from the Palace Museum in the Forbidden City at the end of the Chinese Civil war and stands as a paramount repository of Chinese culture and history.

Tickets cost $350 NT at the door but I’d recommend grabbing a discounted e-ticket to skip the lines.

Smoke rising from the blue green hot spring waters of Beitou Thermal Valley in New Taipei
Light blue hot spring water at a hot spring hotel resort in Beitou, New Taipei

Soak In Beitou’s Hot Springs

A quick bus ride brings you to Xin Beitou (新北投): a mountainous district known for natural hot springs and lush green spaces.

This region was developed during Japanese colonial rule and features bath houses ranging from luxurious private mountain resorts to affordable public options. The sulphur-rich hot springs carry therapeutic properties and are offer the perfect restful and restorative experience for weary travelers.

For the cheapest soak and a communal experience, head to Beitou Public Hot Spring (北投公園露天溫泉浴池). You’ll have to wear a bathing suit and swim cap but at $60 NT, the experience can’t be beat. If you want something more private, this 90-min soak + lunch for two at the Radium Kagaya offers a nice escape from the outside world.

Once you’re done soaking, head on over to Thermal Valley (地熱谷), the Beitou Hot Spring Museum (北投溫泉博物館), and the Public Library – Beitou Branch (臺北市立圖書館 北投分館) to enjoy the vibes of the neighborhood and learn more about the history.

Gi Shieh, east asian woman with short hair wearing denim jacket standing on the pier at Tamsui Old Street in front of a sunset
View of Bali District across the Tamsui River in Taipei during sunset

Sunset Stroll At Tamsui Old Street

Continue north by taking the red line to the very last stop: Tamsui (淡水). This district sits at the confluence of the Taiwan Strait and the Tamsui River and is one of my favorite places to watch the sunset.

Tamsui Old Street (淡水老街廣場) is lined with peppy shops and vendors selling local specialties. It’s a great way to spend the afternoon eating street snacks, basking in the sun, and enjoying the sea breeze. You can take the ferry over to Bali District (八里區) or bike along the river all the way to Lover’s Bridge (情人橋) at the Fisherman’s Warf (淡水漁人碼頭). Make sure to stop by the centuries-old Fuyuo Temple (淡水福佑宮) and Spanish-built Fort San Domingo (淡水紅毛城) along the way!

Fried stinky tofu and pickled cabbage from Ningxia Night Market near Taipei
Blue cocktail in a tall glass and coke with a straw on a glass table with manga books underneath in bar in Shilin Night Market

Eat Your Fill At Shilin Night Market Or Ningxia Night Market

It’s time to head back to the city! We’re going to enjoy night market food again and you have two choices: Shilin Night Market (士林夜市) or Ningxia Night Market (寧夏夜市).

Shilin Night Market (士林夜市)

Shilin Night Market is by far the largest and most famous night market in the country, and it is for that reason alone that you should visit.

What To Eat At Shilin Night Market:

However, as we all know, fame changes people…or in this case, experiences.

I remember that when I used to go as a child, the market was really such a dynamic and (somewhat) chaotic experience with vendors selling all sorts of things in all corners.

Nowadays, there’s better organization but a somewhat watering-down of the culture. Food is a little more expensive and a little less tasty. The shops all try to sell trendy items and it feels just a little too commercial.

Ningxia Night Market (寧夏夜市)

Alternatively, head to Ningxia Night Market! Now, I’m not just saying this because it’s close to where I live, but Ningxia Night Market is my favorite night market in Taipei.

With truly delicious food and an authentic experience, Ningxia Night Market is always a good time.

What To Eat At Ningxia Night Market:

Blue gate at the front of Ximending in Taipei.
Red bring building of The Red House at Ximending in Taipei.

Drinks, Shopping, and Vibes At Ximending

Wrap up your night with with one of the most vivacious neighborhoods in Taipei! Ximending (西門町) is a shopping pedestrian zone in Wanhua District that’s popular among young people and solo travelers.

Truthfully, I find that it can be a little grimy at times (in the rambunctious youth way) but there’s no doubt that the energy is electric.

From independent shops catering to niche interests to uniquely themed restaurants (toilet restaurant, anyone?) and street performers on nearly every corner, there’s something here for everyone.

Colorful houses at Keelung port on a cloudy day.

Day 3 – Day Trip To Keelung, Jiufen/Shifen, or Yilan

It’s time to get out of the city(ish)! Today’s a pick-your-own adventure features day trips to the neighboring towns of Keelung, Jiufen + Shifen, or Yilan.

Pagoda in Keelung, New Taipei from the distance on a sunny day.
Gi Shieh, east asian style blogger wearing plaid and black tank top sitting in a cafe with neon signs in Keelung near Taipei.

Keelung: An Underrated Northern Port City

Explore Taiwan’s northern coastline with a quick day trip to the underrated port city of Keelung (基隆). Just a 40 minutes by bus or train from the city center, Taiwan’s third largest port city is a colorful place to experience everyday living in New Taipei City.

What To Do In Keelung:

  • Keelung Port & Maritime Plaza (海洋廣場): it’s hard to miss this as it’s where all the buses and trains stop! Take a stroll and enjoy your favorite bites on the water
  • Zhengbin Port Color Houses (正濱漁港-彩色街屋): colorful buildings across the river make for one of the best photo spots
  • Keelung Night Market (基隆廟口夜市): my favorite night market in Taiwan! Extremely delicious with ALL the seafood
  • Zhongzheng Park (基隆中正公園): take a trek through this park to the Big Buddha overlooking the city
  • Heping Island GeoPark (和平島地質公園): for interesting rock formations and natural swimming pools
  • Dawulun Beach (大武崙白沙灘): one of the best beaches near Taipei. You’ll have to take a bus from the city though!
Blue skies and blue oceans of northern Taiwan from Jiufen viewpoint.

Jiufen/Shifen: Picturesque Mountainside Villages

Probably the most popular day trip for tourists. Jiufen (九份) and Shifen (十分) are quaint little villages built into the mountains of Pingxi District.

Jiufen is commonly cited as the inspiration behind Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away and although he has clarified that misconception recently, that doesn’t make it any less magical. With teahouses perched precariously on steep cliffs and narrow streets awash with the glow of red lanterns, this destination is a must-visit for anyone seeing Taiwan for the first time.

Two women wearing dresses walking down the streets of Jiufen at dusk lit up by red lanterns
Sweet potato and taro ball dessert from a famous shop a Jiufen old street.

What To Do In Jiufen:

  • Jiufen Old Street (九份老街): shop and eat your way through the narrow alleys of Jiufen
  • A-Mei Tea House (阿妹茶樓): the famous lantern-lit tea house that everyone takes photos of
  • A-Gan-Yi Taro Ball (阿柑姨芋圓): eat this sweet and chewy snack while enjoying views of the port below
  • Mount Keelung Mountain (基隆山): the trailhead is close to Jiufen and if you have two hours to spare, why not hike this mountain?

Shifen is another village located in the northeastern mountains of Taiwan. It’s known for floating sky lanterns, scenic waterfalls, lush forests, and of course, quaint little shops lining the historic streets.

Shifen Waterfall in New Taipei on a sunny day.
Railroad tracks at Shifen old street, New Taipei lined with lanterns and shops on the side on a cloudy day.

What To Do In Shifen:

  • Shifen Old Street (十分老街): the usual shopping and eating plus releasing sky lanterns!
  • Shifen Waterfall (十分瀑布): visit the broadest waterfall in Taiwan
  • Shifen Falls Walk (十分瀑布步道): take a stroll along the river

You visit Jiufen and Shifen on your own by taking the tourist buses that go from Taipei but to save time on logistics and transport, I recommend just going with a tour group!

East asian travel blogger wearing pink jacket and blue hat standing on a bench and looking out at the green mountains of Matcha Mountain in Yilan near Taipei.
Blue ocean at Wai Ao beach in Yilan, perfect for a 4-day Taipei Itinerary.

Yilan:

If you’re the outdoorsy type, Yilan (宜蘭) is for you! This northeastern county is great for surfing in the summertime and ideal for soaking in hot springs during the winter. It’s just one hour away by train or bus and is a great escape for those looking for some peace and quiet.

What To Do In Yilan:

  • Diu Diu Dang Forest Park (丟丟噹森林公園): fun tourist attraction for snapping photos!
  • Yilan Cultural and Creative Park (蘭陽原創館): browse exhibitions from local artists and shop handmade goods by local artisans
  • Waiao Beach (外澳沙灘): go surfing or partake in some other water activities at this beach!
  • Turtle Island (龜山島): take a boat tour to this little island off the coast
  • Jiaoxi (礁溪): soak in hot springs in this little resort town
  • Zhang Mei Ama’s Farm (張美阿嬤農場): hang out with capybaras, sika deer, and alpacas in Yilan!
  • Kavalan Distillery (金車噶瑪蘭威士忌 酒廠): take a tour of Taiwan’s premiere whiskey distillery
Red lanterns hanging in Di Hua, Taipei street during lunar new year. This is one of the best places to visit during a 4 day trip to Taipei.
Sunflower seeds, nuts, and sweets at a tea house in Di Hua Street in Wanhua District, Taipei. One of the best ways to spend an afternoon in Taipei.

Day 4 – Half-Day Trips + Souvenir Shopping

We’ll take it easy for our last day with some half-day trip and local excursions.

Soak In The Historic Atmosphere Of Dihua Street

Dihua Street (迪化街) in Datong District is one of the city’s best-preserved streets. With winding cobblestone roads, charming red brick houses, and vendors selling all sorts of traditional goods, it provides a captivating glimpse of what Taipei must’ve been like in the late 20th-century.

Grab some candied fruits, quality teas, traditional Chinese medicine, or a ceramic tea set to take back to loved ones.

Colorful building at Songshan creative park in Taipei.
Gi Shieh wearing a black top and grey floral pants sitting on a grey building in Huashan Creative Park in Taipei. One of the best things to include in your 4 day Taipei Itinerary.

Support Small Businesses At Huashan / Songshan Cultural Creative Park

One thing that I love about Taiwan is the effort that they’ve put into blending the old with the new.

All around the country, you’ll see these cultural creative parks that repurpose old (industrial) grounds into new sites for small businesses and emerging artists. I love that this initiative pays homage to our manufacturing past while providing opportunity and creating space for the future.

Huashan 1914 Creative Park (華山1914文化創意產業園區) was once a sake plant under Japanese rule and later re-purposed as the Taihoku Winery. Since 1999, it’s transitioned into a prominent art center and public space that features rotating exhibitions. It’s frequently used as event grounds for large-scale festivals and is a popular spot among art lovers of all backgrounds.

Songshan Cultural and Creative Park (松山文創園區) is a creative space in Xinyi District. 80 years ago, this park used to be an industrial village and tobacco factory. Nowadays, it acts as an innovative space to nurture creative talents within the city. Spend the day walking around and learning about the various featured exhibits.

Both creative parks are great places to pick up little knickknacks and souvenirs for your trip. I especially love the hand-painted postcards and handmade ceramics created by local artists!

Pineapple cakes and moon cakes from Taipei.
Local Taiwanese sauces and souvenirs on a shelf in a store in Taipei.

Souvenir Shopping

I don’t know about you, but gift-giving is a huge part of my cultures. Whenever I go on a trip, I always make it a point to bring something back. So I’ve incorporated into this itinerary some space for you to get some treats for your loved ones at home.

Souvenirs To Buy From Taiwan:

Skincare: Poya and Watsons have a huge selection of drugstore makeup. You can also find popular Korean and Japanese brands much more easily!

Pineapple Cakes: these are a classic treat that my relatives used to always bring from Taiwan. Buy your pineapple cakes from Chia Te Bakery, Sunny Hills, or LeeChi.

High Mountain Oolong Tea: one of our first and primary exports. Purchase local options at Kaifeng Tea Shop, WANGTEA, or Zenique.

Traditional Seal: Taiwanese people still use traditional seals for many of their official documents and what’s cool is that you can get one personally carved for yourself! Visit a seal shop like this one to bring one home today.

Jade, Porcelain, Pottery: you definitely have to know what you’re looking at but if you’re in the market for some beautiful art, check out the Jianguo Jade Market on weekends or Guanghua Jade Market any other day of the week.

Stationary: Taiwan’s got some of the cutest and cheapest stationary around! Keep an eye out for shops around universities as they tend to have the best deals.

Gi Shieh, east asian woman wearing blue with her hair tied up sitting at a cafe in Maokong, Taipei.
Green and yellow gondola cabins from Maokong Gondola in Taipei.

Half-Day Trip To Maokong + Taipei Zoo, Bitan, or Wulai

Now that you’ve got all your shopping squared away, it’s time to enjoy the rest of your day with a half-day trip out of the city. I’d recommend visiting Maokong Village + Taipei Zoo, Bitan, or Wulai.

Ride The Gondola, Sip Tea, and Watch Animals At Maokong + Taipei Zoo

Take the brown line all the way to Taipei Zoo (臺北市立動物園) and begin your afternoon there. Make sure to prioritize the animals that you want to see most because the establishment is pretty huge.

When you’re done snapping photos of cute animals, take the Maokong Gondola (貓空纜車) to Maokong village. Enjoy your time hiking through the lush greenery and when you’re tired, head into a tea house to sip some locally-grown Tieguanyin and Baozhong Oolong tea.

Bitan recreational area with boats and mountains in New Taipei (Xindian). One of the best half-day trips during your 4 day Taipei trip.
The bridge at Xindian river in Bitan, Taipei at sunset--the perfect half-day trip from Taipei.

Paddle-Boating + Coffee With A View At Bitan Scenic Area

For a more low-key afternoon, head to Bitan Scenic Area (碧潭風景區) in Xindian District at the end of the green line.

Bitan refers to the green lake that the Xindian river widens into. This recreational area features cute cafes and restaurants that overlook emerald green waters and jagged steep cliffs. Spend your afternoon strolling (or biking) along the river banks, paddle-boating on the lake, or eating your way through Xindian Old Street (新店老街).

Colorful green, red, and purple indigenous fruits and vegetables at Wulai in Taipei--an essential destination to add to your Taipei itinerary.
Blue green waters of Wulai and red bridge in New Taipei.

Restoring In Nature + Learning About Indigenous Culture In Wulai

If you’re looking for a more nature-heavy half-day trip, I recommend heading to Wulai Districti (烏來區)! From Xindian MRT Station, take the 849 bus for about 40 minutes until you reach the Wulai Suspension Bridge (烏來吊橋). Spend an afternoon river tracing down Jiajiuliao Stream (加九寮), soaking in (wild) hot springs, visiting Wulai Falls (烏來瀑布), learning about the Atayal people, and enjoying indigenous cuisine at Wulai Old Street (烏來老街)!

Gi Shieh, east asian travel blogger wearing pink top and black cardigan eating dinner at Aquatic Addiction development in Taipei.
Sushi dish at aquatic addiction development in taipei.

Dinner At Addiction Aquatic Development

For your last meal in Taiwan, I recommend checking out some Japanese food! Since the Japanese colonized Taiwan, the island has had strong ties to the other nation and Japanese cuisine in Taiwan is some of the best that you can find at a reasonable price!

Addiction Aquatic Development (上引水產) is Taipei’s premiere fish market but much like Tsukiji in Tokyo, it’s much more than just a fish market. With vendors selling fresh seafood, luxurious lunch boxes, and multiple dine-in restaurants and bars, it’s a nice way to end your time here in Taipei.

I recommend grabbing a few boxes of sushi and some nice sake then either sitting outside or heading to the nearby Taipei Expo Park (花博公園新生園區) to enjoy. You can also eat at one of the restaurants in the market, but they tend to be a little overpriced in my opinion.

If raw seafood or sushi is not for you, I recommend you check out one of Taipei’s countless izakayas. Some of my favorites include 打鐵町49番地 Party Team Bistro and 狸君居酒屋-串燒 near Zhongshan station.

Silhouette of a woman wearing a skirt standing on the beach in Tamsui, New Taipei.

There you have it: my top recommendations for what to do in Taipei in four days. If you have additional time on the island, I recommend visiting the stunning Taroko National Park in Hualien or Tainan, the first city on the island.