
When I visited Taipei, I stayed at CitizenM Taipei North Gate, and honestly, I think it was an excellent choice for a first visit. It was modern, affordable, within walking distance of Ximending, and made it incredibly easy to get around the city.
That said, if I returned for a longer trip, there are a few other neighborhoods I loved that I think would be perfect areas to base myself in.
Whether you're visiting for 48 hours, planning a week in Taiwan, travelling on a budget, or looking for a luxury stay, this guide will help you choose the best area to stay in Taipei.
Quick Guide: Where Should You Stay in Taipei?
If you're short on time, here's a quick overview.
If it's your first time in Taipei, I'd recommend staying near Taipei Main Station or Ximending.
Both neighbourhoods offer fantastic MRT connections and make it easy to explore almost every attraction.

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.
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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.
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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.
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This guided tour takes you to all the highlight in the city in one fully packed day.
Ximending - Perfect for First-time visitors
If Taipei has a neighborhood that never seems to sleep, it's Ximending.
It’s often called the "Harajuku of Taipei," and feels very vibrant with neon lights, shopping streets, street performers, trendy cafés, restaurants, and endless food options.
I loved wandering around here during the day, but the area becomes even livelier after dark when musicians, dancers, and performers fill the pedestrian streets.
It's energetic without feeling overwhelming and one of the best places to experience Taipei's modern side.
Why Stay in Ximending?
One of the biggest advantages is location. From Ximending you can easily reach:
- Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
- Longshan Temple
- Taipei Main Station
- Raohe Night Market
- Taipei 101
- Elephant Mountain
The MRT makes getting almost anywhere in the city quick and easy. You'll also never struggle to find somewhere to eat.
Best Hotels in Ximending

One of the most popular budget hotels in Taipei and offers stylish industrial-inspired rooms at very reasonable prices. It's located just a short walk from the heart of Ximending, making it a great choice for travelers who want to be close to the action without paying luxury prices.
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If I were returning to Taipei and wanted to stay in Ximending, this is probably where I'd book. The rooms are spacious, modern, and bright, while the location couldn't be much better just steps away from Taipei's best shopping streets and nightlife.
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For travelers wanting a little more comfort without spending an absolute fortune, this is a nice pick. It has elegant rooms and unbeatable location. It's also ideal if you're only spending two or three days in Taipei and want to maximize your sightseeing time.
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Xinyi - Bets for Luxury and Shopping
Xinyi is a more modern part of Taipei.
This is where you'll find Taipei 101, luxury shopping malls, rooftop bars, fine dining restaurants, and some of the city's most impressive hotels.
The area is full of wide streets, modern architecture, public art, and beautifully maintained plazas that create a really nice atmosphere at night.
If you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, this is undoubtedly one of the best places to stay in Taipei.
Why Stay in Xinyi?
You'll be within walking distance of:
- Taipei 101
- Elephant Mountain
- Linjiang Night Market
- Luxury shopping
- Rooftop bars
- Excellent restaurants
The MRT also makes it easy to reach the rest of Taipei. While accommodation here is generally more expensive, the views alone can make it worthwhile.
Best Hotels in Xinyi

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.
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If you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, the Grand Hyatt Taipei is hard to beat. Located next to Taipei 101, the hotel offers spacious rooms, multiple restaurants, a beautiful outdoor pool, and incredible views over the city skyline.
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For something a little different, Eslite Hotel offers understated luxury with beautifully designed rooms and a much calmer atmosphere than many large international hotels. It overlooks the Park which makes it feel more peaceful while still being close to the main attractions.
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Zhongzheng & Taipei Main Station - Best for Short Stays & Sightseeing
If convenience is your top priority, it doesn't get much better than staying around Taipei Main Station.
This is where I stayed during my weekend in Taipei, and if you're only visiting for two or three days, I genuinely think it's one of the best locations in the city.
Taipei Main Station is the city's main transport hub, connecting the MRT, high-speed rail, local trains, airport MRT, and buses. That means you can get almost anywhere in Taipei, or even the rest of Taiwan, with minimal effort.
It's also surprisingly walkable. I was able to stroll to Ximending and various night markets, and attractions like Taipei 101 and Longshan Temple were just a short MRT ride away.
Compare the latest flight prices and find the best deals here.
Why Stay Near Taipei Main Station?
This area is ideal if you want to maximize your sightseeing without constantly changing trains or spending time figuring out transport.
You'll be close to:
- Taipei Main Station
- Ximending
- Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
- Dihua Street
- Ningxia Night Market
It's not the trendiest neighborhood in Taipei, but it's one of the most practical.
Best Hotels Near Taipei Main Station

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 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.
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If you're looking for something more luxurious without leaving the Taipei Main Station area, Palais de Chine is a fantastic choice. The hotel combines European-inspired interiors, spacious rooms, multiple restaurants, and direct access to the Q Square shopping mall.
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Da'an - Best for Digital Nomads and Quiet Atmosphere
If I were staying in Taipei for a week or longer, Da'an would probably be my first choice.
It feels noticeably calmer than Ximending or Xinyi, while still being incredibly central.
You’ll find tree-lined streets, independent cafés, lots of restaurants, local boutiques, and beautiful parks give the neighborhood a much more relaxed atmosphere.
It's the kind of place where you can spend an entire morning café hopping before wandering through quiet residential streets that barely feel like you're in one of Asia's biggest cities.
Da'an also has fantastic MRT connections, so exploring the rest of Taipei is still incredibly easy.
Why Stay in Da'an?
This neighborhood is perfect if you enjoy slower travel.
You'll be close to:
- Da'an Forest Park
- Yongkang Street
- Excellent brunch cafés
- Boutique shops
- MRT stations connecting the whole city
Best Hotels in Da'an

This hotel is one of the best-value options in the area. Located opposite Da'an Forest Park, it offers bright rooms and easy MRT access. If you're looking for something budget friendly and peaceful, this is a great option.
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This hotel offers spacious rooms, elegant interiors, and a quieter atmosphere than many city-center hotels. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for comfort while still being close to Taipei's best restaurants and cafés.
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If boutique luxury is more your style, it's hard to beat Kimpton Da An. It's one of Taipei's highest-rated boutique hotels, with stunning rooms, great service and the location is perfect for exploring Da'an's cafés, bars, and restaurants.
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Beitou - Best for Hot Springs & Relaxation
This isn't technically in the city center so if you're in Taipei only for sightseeing I wouldn't stay here. However, if you have more time or if you’ve visited Taipei before I would head here for a couple of days of relaxation.
Instead of busy shopping streets and skyscrapers, you'll find steaming thermal springs, peaceful parks, traditional bathhouses, and some of Taiwan's best spa hotels.
I didn't have enough time to stay here during my visit, but it's already at the top of my list for my next trip. Even spending one or two nights here would make a fantastic addition to a Taipei itinerary.
I personally use SafetyWing and highly recommend it for every kind of trip. Check their prices & plans here.
Why Stay in Beitou?
Beitou is ideal if you want to combine sightseeing with relaxation.
The area is famous for:
- Natural hot springs
- Luxury spa hotels
- Thermal Valley
- Beitou Hot Spring Museum
- Beautiful parks
- Scenic mountain surroundings
It's especially popular with couples and anyone visiting Taipei during the cooler months.
Best Hotels in Beitou

This is one of the area's most popular hotels. It offers spacious rooms, private hot spring baths, and a relaxing spa atmosphere. It's ideal if you want a wellness-focused stay without splurging on ultra-luxury.
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This is consistently ranked among the best hotels in Taiwan so if you want to treat yourself this is the place to book. Expect beautifully designed rooms, private hot spring baths, mountain views, and one of the city's best spas.
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For travellers looking for something a little more affordable while still enjoying the hot spring experience, this offers excellent value. Many rooms include private hot spring tubs, making it a great option for couples looking for a relaxing getaway.
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I always set up an eSIM before flying so I'm connected the moment I arrive. Compare the best plans from Airalo here.
The Best Hotels in Taipei by Budget
If you'd rather choose your hotel based on your budget than the neighborhood, here are my top picks.
Best Budget Hotels in Taipei
Traveling on a budget doesn't mean you have to sacrifice comfort. Taipei has some fantastic affordable hotels, many of them within walking distance of MRT stations and major attractions.

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

One of the most popular budget hotels in Taipei and offers stylish industrial-inspired rooms at very reasonable prices. It's located just a short walk from the heart of Ximending, making it a great choice for travelers who want to be close to the action without paying luxury prices.
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CityInn is consistently one of the highest-rated budget hotels in Taipei. The rooms are compact but modern, spotless, and thoughtfully designed. It's an excellent option if you're looking for somewhere comfortable without stretching your budget.
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Best Mid-Range Hotels in Taipei
Taipei really shines in the mid-range category. You can often find stylish, comfortable hotels with excellent service for much less than you'd pay in many other major cities.

If I were returning to Taipei and wanted to stay in Ximending, this is probably where I'd book. The rooms are spacious, modern, and bright, while the location couldn't be much better just steps away from Taipei's best shopping streets and nightlife.
Check prices and availability

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

This hotel offers spacious rooms, elegant interiors, and a quieter atmosphere than many city-center hotels. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for comfort while still being close to Taipei's best restaurants and cafés.
Check prices and availability
Best Boutique Hotels in Taipei
If you're like me and prefer hotels with plenty of character over large international chains, Taipei has some wonderful boutique properties.

If boutique luxury is more your style, it's hard to beat Kimpton Da An. It's one of Taipei's highest-rated boutique hotels, with stunning rooms, great service and the location is perfect for exploring Da'an's cafés, bars, and restaurants.
Check prices and availability

For something a little different, Eslite Hotel offers understated luxury with beautifully designed rooms and a much calmer atmosphere than many large international hotels. It overlooks the Park which makes it feel more peaceful while still being close to the main attractions.
Check prices and availability

For travelers wanting a little more comfort without spending an absolute fortune, this is a nice pick. It has elegant rooms and unbeatable location. It's also ideal if you're only spending two or three days in Taipei and want to maximize your sightseeing time.
Check prices and availability
Best Luxury Hotels in Taipei
If you're planning a special trip, Taipei offers some truly outstanding luxury hotels.

If you're celebrating a special occasion or simply want to treat yourself, the Grand Hyatt Taipei is hard to beat. Located next to Taipei 101, the hotel offers spacious rooms, multiple restaurants, a beautiful outdoor pool, and incredible views over the city skyline.
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This is widely regarded as one of the finest hotels in Taiwan. It delivers exceptional service, spacious rooms, beautiful interiors, and one of the city's best spas. It's the perfect choice for honeymooners or anyone celebrating a special occasion.
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Located in Zhongshan, Regent Taipei combines luxury with one of the city's best shopping and dining neighbourhoods. The spacious rooms, award-winning restaurants, rooftop pool, and central location make it a great base for exploring Taipei in style.
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Browse the highest-rated tours and experiences here.
Taipei Hotel Budget Guide
No matter your budget, you'll find excellent accommodation in Taipei.
One of the things I appreciated most during my visit was just how much value you get for your money.
Whether you're staying in a modern design hotel, a stylish boutique property in Da'an, or one of the city's iconic five-star hotels, you're never far from fantastic food, efficient public transport, and some of the best attractions Taiwan has to offer.
Compared to many other major Asian cities, I found accommodation to be reasonably priced, especially considering the quality.
Here's a rough guide to what you can expect to pay per night in Taipei
Budget hotels: US$30-70
Mid-range hotels: US$80-180
Boutique hotels: US$150-250
Luxury hotels: US$250+
Prices naturally increase during weekends, public holidays, and cherry blossom season, so it's worth booking early if you're traveling during peak periods.
Tips for Booking Hotels in Taipei
After my visit, here are a few things I'd keep in mind when choosing accommodation.
Stay Near an MRT Station
Taipei's MRT is one of the best public transport systems I've ever used. Being within a five-minute walk of a station will save you a lot of time during your trip.
Book Early
Taipei has become an increasingly popular destination, especially during spring and autumn. The best hotels often sell out well in advance.
Think About Your Itinerary
Rather than simply booking the cheapest hotel, consider what you'll spend most of your time doing.
If you're planning lots of sightseeing, staying near Taipei Main Station or Ximending makes sense.
If your focus is food, cafés, and local neighborhoods, Da'an is a fantastic choice.
If relaxation is your priority, head for Beitou.
See my suggested 2 Day Itinerary for inspiration.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best area to stay in Taipei?
For most first-time visitors, I'd recommend Ximending or Taipei Main Station. Both offer excellent transport connections and make it easy to reach Taipei's top attractions.
Is Ximending or Xinyi better?
It depends on the kind of trip you're planning.
Ximending is better if you enjoy shopping, nightlife, and a lively atmosphere.
Xinyi is ideal if you're looking for luxury hotels, rooftop bars, and easy access to Taipei 101.
Is Taipei expensive for hotels?
Not compared to many other major cities in Asia.
You'll find everything from affordable hostels to world-class luxury hotels, and I was impressed by how much value you get for your money.
How many days should I stay in Taipei?
I spent a weekend in Taipei and managed to see many of the city's highlights, but I definitely left wanting more.
I'd recommend:
- 2 days for the main attractions.
- 3–4 days to include Beitou, Maokong, or the National Palace Museum.
- 5–7 days if you also want to take day trips to Jiufen, Shifen, or Yangmingshan National Park.
Is Taipei safe?
Yes. Taipei consistently ranks as one of the safest cities in Asia, and I felt completely comfortable walking around both during the day and in the evening.
As always, it's worth taking normal travel precautions, but it's an excellent destination for solo travelers, couples, families, and first-time visitors.
Final Thoughts: Where To Stay in Taipei
One of the things I loved most about Taipei was how different each neighbourhood felt. That variety is part of what makes Taipei such a rewarding city to explore.
If you're only visiting for a couple of days, I'd recommend staying in either Ximending or near Taipei Main Station. Both are incredibly convenient, especially if it's your first time in the city.
Personally, I really enjoyed staying at CitizenM Taipei North Gate. Its central location made getting around effortless, and it was the perfect base for exploring Taipei's temples, night markets, viewpoints, and neighborhoods.
If I return for a longer trip, and I definitely plan to, I think I'd split my stay. A few nights in Da'an for the cafés and local atmosphere, followed by a relaxing night or two in Beitou, sounds like the perfect combination.
No matter which neighborhood you choose, you're never far from incredible food, friendly locals, beautiful temples, and one of the easiest cities in Asia to explore.
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.
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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