Taipei City in the sun.
Taipei City is a vibrant metropolis brimming with natural beauty, culture, history, and mouth-watering food. From soaring skyscrapers to serene hiking trails, here’s a curated list of the top ten places to visit in and around Taipei, perfect for first-time visitors and seasoned travellers alike.
1. Taipei 101 & Elephant Mountain
The view from the top of Elephant Mountain.
A trip to Taipei simply isn’t complete without seeing Taipei 101 – it’s impossible to miss! Once the world’s tallest building, this iconic tower dominates the skyline and symbolises modern Taiwan. A ticket to the observatory floor costs around NT$700 (as of 2022), offering an unparalleled panoramic view that makes the city below look like a toy town.
Taipei 101 and the Xinyi District.
Just a 15-minute walk away lies Elephant Mountain, a steep stair-climb that rewards you with some of the best views of Taipei 101 and the bustling Xinyi District. It’s a short but popular hike – allow 30 minutes up and the same back down – and well worth the effort, especially at sunset.
2. Dahu Park
Some of the local fishermen at Dahu Park.
Located in north-eastern Taipei and easily accessible via the Brown MRT Line, Dahu Park offers a peaceful escape from the city. Known for its picturesque arched bridge and floating pavilions, it’s a fantastic spot for a leisurely stroll or picnic. If you fancy more of a workout, there’s a hiking trail leading up the nearby hills.
Looking out over Dahu Lake from the floating pagoda.
3. Bishanyan Kaizhang Shengwang Temple
Layers upon layers of mountains and city looking out from the temple.
Taipei City at Sunset.
Tucked away in the Neihu District, this temple is a bit more off the beaten track but absolutely worth the trip. Take the S2 shuttle bus from Neihu MRT station and you’ll arrive at one of Taipei’s most beautiful temples. With striking architecture and serene vibes, it’s a fantastic place to catch a sunset and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Don’t forget your camera – it’s a photographer’s dream.
Taipei 101 framed by the roof of the temple.
4. Jintan Mountain
Looking out at Songshan Airport from Jintan Mountain.
This moderate ridgeline hike starts near the Grand Hotel and is accessible from Jiantan MRT Station on the Red Line. It takes around 2–3 hours at a relaxed pace and offers views of Songshan Airport and greater Taipei. The first section can be busy, but the crowds soon thin out. It’s a pleasant and manageable hike suitable for most fitness levels.
5. Yuanshan Park
Light trails of planes landing over Yuanshan Park.
Situated right next to Yuanshan MRT Station, this spacious park is great for a lazy afternoon. Grab a bite at the local food court – Good Cho’s is especially popular for its incredible bagels – or explore the flower gardens, hedge maze, and rental bikes. It’s a fun and accessible place to enjoy a slower pace.
6. Tamsui Waterfront
Looking out from Tamsui towards Bali.
At the end of the Red MRT Line lies Tamsui, a charming riverside district known for its sunsets. While the main area can get crowded, a short stroll along the waterfront leads to quieter spots perfect for reflection or a scenic snack. For a hidden gem, try Café La Vie Rêvée des Anges – it’s got unbeatable views from its second-floor balcony. If you’re feeling adventurous, hop on a ferry across the river to explore Bali.
7. Mount Qixing & Yangmingshan National Park
Cloud inversions in Yangminshan National Park.
Taipei’s nearby national park is a nature-lover’s haven. Whether you’re summiting Mount Qixing, the city’s highest peak, or meandering through Yangmingshan’s grasslands, cherry blossoms, and volcanic landscapes, it’s a fantastic place to reconnect with nature. The trails are mostly stepped, so hiking poles might come in handy. You’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of Taipei basin.
A lookout tower on the slopes of Mount Qixing.
8. Yuanshan Rock & Sanxia Old Street
A view from Yuanshan Rock in Sanxia.
This spot combines culture and adventure. Sanxia Old Street is rich in traditional architecture, street food, and cosy cafés – perfect for fuelling up before tackling the Yuanshan Rock trail. It’s a bit steep, but all paved, and offers a quieter escape from the more tourist-heavy areas. Weekdays are best for avoiding crowds.
A view inside one of the temples in Sanxia Old Street.
9. Maokong
One other larger temples in the Maokong Area.
Best reached via the scenic Maokong Gondola next to Taipei Zoo (Brown Line), Maokong is a tranquil hillside village known for its tea culture. Stop by Shiao Mu Teahouse for relaxing views over the tea fields, or continue to Maokong Café Alley, which serves excellent matcha green tea ice cream. Avoid the larger restaurants – they tend to overcharge for traditional tea sets.
The view from the Shiao Mu Teahouse.
10. Wulai Waterfall
A local relaxing at the top of the waterfall.
Wulai is a delightful day trip from the city. Catch the 849 bus from Xindian District Office (instead of Xindian MRT to avoid the crowds). The riverside walk up to Wulai Waterfall is peaceful, and you’ll find a small gondola that takes you to the top for an alternative view. There’s also a hot spring resort and some charming walking paths to explore up there.
A drone shot of Wulai town.
Final Thoughts
These ten spots are just the beginning – Taipei is packed with hidden gems, natural wonders, and cultural treasures. Whether you’re after scenic views, historical sites, or culinary adventures, the city has something for everyone.
A bonus tip: go to Jiufen.
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