A weekend in Taipei - The Ultimate 2 Day itinerary

Taipei is the kind of city that combines centuries-old temples with towering skyscrapers, where you can spend the morning wandering through peaceful gardens before eating your way around a lively night market in the evening. It somehow manages to feel both incredibly modern and deeply traditional at the same time.

I also wasn't expecting just how easy it would be to explore. The MRT is one of the best metro systems I've used anywhere in the world, making it simple to fit a surprising amount into just two days.

How To Spend 2 Days in Taipei - The Ultimate Itinerary

Of course, 48 hours isn't enough to see everything Taipei has to offer, but it's more than enough to experience the city's highlights, eat some incredible food, and leave wanting to come back, just like me.

If you're planning a trip to Taipei, this is exactly how I spent my weekend in Taipei, along with a few extra tips I'd include if I were planning the trip again.

If you also want to see all the top things to do in Taipei and plan your own itinerary, check out my guide on what to do in Taipei.

Day 1 in Taipei: Temples, History and Taipei's Famous Night Markets

Morning: Visit Chiang Kai-shek memorial hall

I recommend starting your day at the Chiang Kai-shek memorial hall before the heat gets too intense. This is one of Taipei's most famous landmarks, and it's even more impressive in person than it looks in photos.

You can walk through Liberty Square, wander around the cute gardens and explore the various buildings and gates.

I ended up spending much longer here than I'd planned because the entire complex is huge, so make sure to set aside enough time. Even if museums aren't normally your thing, it's worth wandering through for the architecture alone.

One of the biggest highlights is the ceremonial changing of the guard inside the memorial hall. The ceremony takes place every hour and is pretty cool to witness.

However, if you arrive just after it’s finished I wouldn't wait an hour again to see it.

Want to learn more about the area?

Join this guided morning tour that lets you explore the area while a guide explains the history and significance.

Midday: Visit Longshan temple

After grabbing some lunch I recommend heading towards the Longshan temple. Built in 1738, it's one of the oldest and most important temples in Taiwan, and unlike many historic attractions, it doesn't only feel like a tourist site. People still come here everyday to pray, light incense and make offerings.

I spent quite a while simply walking around here, taking in all the beautiful details and artwork.

Short on time and want everything organized?

Then I recommend this guided tour that takes you to all the top sights in Taipei in one full day.

Afternoon: Explore Wanhua district

After visiting the temple, I recommend spending some time wandering through Wanhua, Taipei's oldest neighbourhood.

This area has a very different atmosphere from the city's modern shopping districts. Here you'll find narrow streets, traditional medicine shops, family-run businesses and historic buildings.

It feels less polished than other parts of Taipei, but that's exactly why I enjoyed it so much. If you have time you can grab a coffee at one of the local spots here and just relax a bit after walking for a long time.

Evening: Experience One of Taipei's Night Markets

There are so many night markets to explore in Taipei, so you have to visit at least one while you're here. Even if you only have one evening in the city, you should spend parts of it at a night market.

I recommend Raohe Night Market if you only have time to visit one. Compared to some of Taipei's larger markets, I think it felt compact enough to explore without becoming overwhelming, while still offering an incredible variety of food.

If you're feeling adventurous, you'll also find plenty of local specialties you've probably never seen before.

If Raohe doesn't fit how you plan your itinerary, you could check out my guide to the best night markets to see if any of the others look more appealing to you.

I didn’t have a guide during my visits to the night markets, but in hindsight it would've been really fun to have someone explain more about what the various dishes were and what stalls to order from. On my next trip I want to join this guided food tour.

Day 2 In Taipei: Modern Taipei & Elephant Mountain

After spending my first day exploring Taipei's temples and historic neighbourhoods, I wanted to experience the city's more modern side.

One of the things I loved most about Taipei is how quickly it changes. Within just a few MRT stops, you can go from centuries-old temples to modern skyscrapers, trendy cafés, and shopping streets.

Looking for the perfect place to stay?

Browse the best hotels, guesthouses, and boutique stays in Taipei here.

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Morning: Start your day in Ximending

After an early breakfast I headed to Ximending, one of Taipei's liveliest neighbourhoods. It's known for its colorful streets, giant digital billboards, trendy boutiques, street performers, and endless food options. It was such a fun place to just walk around without any big plan.

Every street seemed to have something different to offer, whether it was vintage clothing shops, anime stores or beauty products. If you want you can also grab breakfast here instead. I walked past so many cute spots that would have been a great start to the day.

If you want to and have the time for it, you can also set aside some time for shopping. I personally didn't, but if I had it would've been here.

Want to make the most of your trip to Taipei?

Browse the highest-rated tours and experiences here.

Midday: Visit Taipei 101

If you've ever Googled Taipei, you've probably seen this famous skyscraper. Its unique design, inspired by traditional bamboo, makes it one of the most recognisable skyscrapers anywhere in the world.

For me, no trip to Taipei would feel complete without visiting Taipei 101. You can choose to just see it from the outside, but I think it was worth going inside and checking out the observation deck on the 89th floor. You get amazing views over the city and mountains beyond.

Also make sure to check out the the giant wind damper if you head inside. It’s a gigantic golden sphere suspended between the upper floors to help stabilise the building during earthquakes. I’m not an engineer, but it was still fascinating to see.

If you're visiting during weekends, holidays, or cherry blossom season, I'd definitely recommend booking your observation deck ticket in advance. Not only can it save time, but prices are sometimes cheaper online than buying at the entrance.

Evening: Hike Elephant mountain

I finished my weekend in Taipei by hiking Elephant Mountain, and it ended up being my favourite experience of the entire trip. The trail isn't particularly long, it only takes around 20 to 30 minutes to get up. However, it’s very steep and the humidity feels pretty intense when climbing hundreds of stairs.

If you don’t feel like walking all the way to the top, you can stop at one of the many viewing platforms along the way. Each gives a really stunning view of the city.

It’s a very popular spot for pictures, so as you walk up you'll see people lining up with their camera gear long before sunset to get the best shot. Especially on the viewing platforms on the way up.

I timed my hike so I'd arrive just before sunset, and I highly recommend it. You’ll see Taipei 101 along with all the other skyscrapers in the city as the sun sets and it’s absolutely beautiful.

Need mobile data when you land?

I always set up an eSIM before flying so I'm connected the moment I arrive. Compare the best plans from Airalo here.

More Alternative Ideas If You Have More Time in Taipei

If you find yourself with an extra afternoon or you're visiting Taipei for three or four days instead of two, I would check out some of the spots below. They are spots I really wanted to see, but didn’t have time for during my time in Taipei.

Jiufen

This mountain town is famous for its narrow lantern-lined streets, traditional teahouses, and incredible coastal views. It's one of the most popular day trips from Taipei and something I personally would've loved to do.

Beitou hot springs

If you're craving a slower day you can look into a day at Beitou hot springs. It’s just outside the city centre and you can soak in natural hot springs, visit a thermal valley and just enjoy a great spa experience.

Yangmingshan National Park

If you enjoy hiking, volcanic landscapes, waterfalls, and flower fields, this national park is easily reached from Taipei and looks like a really great place to explore.

What is the Best Area to Stay in Taipei?

For most travellers, staying around Taipei Main Station or Ximending is a great choice, especially if it’s your first visit to Taiwan. Both areas are well connected by public transport, making it easy to explore Taipei’s main attractions, visit the famous night markets, and take day trips outside the city.

However, Taipei has several other neighbourhoods worth considering, depending on what kind of trip you have in mind. Zhongshan is a great option if you prefer stylish cafés, independent shops and a slightly more relaxed atmosphere, while Da’an offers leafy streets, local restaurants and a more residential feel.

Below you’ll see my three favourite hotels that I recommend checking out first. This is my personal favourite, and I highly recommend staying there if you want a practical and fun stay in Taipei.

CitizenM Taipei North gate

If you're looking for a stylish hotel without spending a fortune, this is an excellent choice. It was within walking distance of Ximending, Taipei Main Station, and several MRT stops, making it incredibly easy to get around. Everything is controlled through an iPad, which gave the hotel a fun, modern feel.

Check prices and availability

Hotel Resonance

Hotel Resonance is one of the best-rated hotels in the city. The rooms are spacious by Taipei standards, beautifully designed, and the location is fantastic for exploring both the historic sights and modern districts. It's an ideal option for couples looking for a comfortable stay without paying luxury prices.

Check prices and availability

Humble House

This is one of Xinyi's best-rated hotels and combines contemporary design with a fantastic location. The rooftop swimming pool overlooking the Taipei skyline is a highlight, and it's within walking distance of Taipei 101, shopping malls, and some of the city's best restaurants.

Check prices and availability

Map of the Best Hotels in Taipei

Below you'll find a map where I've pinned my favourite hotels in Taipei to make it easier for you to navigate when you're looking for where you want to base yourself.

When is The Best Time to Visit Taipei?

Taipei can be visited year-round, but if you can choose when to go, I'd recommend spring (March to May) or autumn (October to November). The temperatures are more comfortable, humidity is lower, and you'll spend much less time looking for air conditioning between attractions.

I visited in July, and even though I had a great time, it was insanely hot and humid. So when I go back, I’m probably going to aim for spring.

How to Get Around Taipei

One of my favourite things about Taipei was how easy it was to explore. The MRT is clean, affordable, efficient, and has announcements in both Mandarin and English. Honestly, I don't think I waited more than a few minutes for a train the entire time I was there.

If you're planning to use public transport, buy an EasyCard as soon as you arrive. It works on the MRT, local buses, and can even be used in many convenience stores. It's inexpensive, easy to top up, and saves you from buying individual tickets every time you travel.

If you're arriving at Taoyuan International Airport, the Airport MRT connects directly with Taipei Main Station, making it one of the easiest airport transfers I've experienced.

And don't forget travel insurance! it's one of those things you hope you'll never need, but you'll be incredibly grateful to have if things doesn't go as planned. We personally use SafetyWing and I highly recommend them for every kind of trip.

Travel with peace of mind and get travel insurance before your trip.

I personally use SafetyWing and highly recommend it for every kind of trip. Check their prices & plans here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is 48 hours enough in Taipei?

Yes. While you certainly won't see everything, two days is enough to visit the city's main attractions, explore several neighbourhoods, eat your way through a night market or two, and enjoy one of the best viewpoints in Taiwan. If you have longer, I'd recommend adding at least one day trip.

Is Taipei worth visiting?

Absolutely. I just came here as a stopover on my way to Palau, but in hindsight I wish I’d set aside more time here because I really liked it.

It's clean, safe, incredibly easy to explore, and offers an amazing mix of history, culture, food, shopping, and nature.

Is Taipei expensive?

Not really. Accommodation can be pricey, but transport, local restaurants, and many attractions are very affordable compared to other major Asian cities.

Is Taipei safe?

Taipei is consistently ranked as one of the safest cities in Asia. I felt completely comfortable walking around during the day and evening, including while exploring the night markets.

As always, keep an eye on your belongings in busy areas, but overall it's an incredibly relaxed and welcoming destination.

Plan Your Trip to Taipei

Hopefully this guide has given you everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip to Taipei. To make planning even easier, I've included all the resources I personally use when I travel.

Find the best hotels and compare prices on Booking.com

Find the best hotels and compare prices on Hotels.com

Compare flight prices on Skyscanner.com

Book buses, trains and ferries with 12Go

Brows the best tours on Viator here

Brows the best tours on Get Your Guide here

Compare eSIM plans with Airalo here

Get travel insurance from SafetyWing here

Every recommendation is based on tools and services I genuinely use and would recommend to friends and family.

By using these links you help me continue to create free travel guides like this one.

Thank you for supporting Travels with Ingrid!

If you have any questions about travel in Taiwan, or just want to follow along as I travel the world full time, don‘t hesitate to reach out to me on social media.

I would love to connect and help out!

-Ingrid

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