THE ULTIMATE TAIPEI TRAVEL GUIDE
Welcome to Taipei – a city where rich cultural heritage coexists with a vibrant city life. From bustling night markets to glitzy rooftop bars, tranquil nature to exciting food scenes, Taipei offers a blend of experiences that cater to every type of traveller.
Join us as we delve into the heart of Taipei to uncover its hidden gems and iconic landmarks that makes Taipei a destination like no other.
THE BEST HOTELS IN TAIPEI
MANDARIN ORIENTAL TAIPEI
Address: No. 158, DunHua N Rd, Songshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10548
Instagram: @mo_taipei
With a stunning facade resembling a luxurious French chateau, the Mandarin Oriental spotlights as the most elegant hotel in Taipei. Home to an exquisite art collection and opulent interior (think endless marble and crystal chandeliers), Mandarin Oriental seamlessly marries contemporary sophistication with timeless elegance throughout each of its 256 rooms. Guests will be delighted to immerse in its wide range of culinary options, ranging from Japanese to Chinese to Italian. Mandarin Oriental’s signature spa services are not to be missed as well! With its unparalleled dedication to service and attention to detail, Taipei’s Mandarin Oriental offers a sanctuary where every moment is a celebration of impeccable hospitality.
SHANGRI-LA FAR EASTERN PLAZA HOTEL
Address: No. 201, Section 2, Dunhua S Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106
Instagram: @shangrilataipei
Step into this hotel and experience classic luxury at none other than the Shangri-La Far Eastern Plaza Hotel. Located in the heart of the vibrant city, this iconic five-star hotel offers a seamless blend of contemporary design and traditional charm which draws inspiration from the Song Dynasty. Inside the Shangri-La, guests can indulge in exquisite dining experiences from around the world, unwind in spacious rooms with breathtaking views, and rejuvenate their senses at the luxurious spa. Upholding its reputation across the world, Shangri-La Far Eastern Plaza Hotel proves to be an unforgettable stay with upscale service and ultimate comfort.
KIMPTON DA AN HOTEL
Address: No. 25, Lane 27, Section 4, Ren’ai Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106
Instagram: @kimptondaanhotel
The Kimpton stands out as a stylish boutique hotel for those with an eye for design. Decorated with lush greenery and modern accents, this hotel is perfect for guests seeking a haven in the bustling part of Taipei. The rooms feature contemporary details such as deep teal and brass gold accents against blond wood.
Grab a glass of wine and mingle with guests at the signature social hour, enjoy the sunset from the tranquil rooftop terrace, or bike around the city with Kimpton’s loaner bikes. The Kimpton is the ultimate destination for creating authentic experiences for all guests – and their furbabies!
HOTEL PROVERBS
Address: No. 56, Section 1, Da’an Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10691
Instagram: @hotelproverbs
Nestled in Taipei’s Eastern District famous for boutique shops and cocktail bars lies Hotel Proverbs, a destination for those looking for an artsy home away from home. Designed by globally renowned architect Ray Chen, Hotel Proverbs features dramatic black steel exterior with an industrial chic interior. Throughout the 42 rooms of the hotel, guests will be inspired by unconventionally designed rooms with textures such as copper, marbles and walnut mixed with delicate fabrics. It is no wonder that this hotel is a proud member of Design Hotels™. To top it off, the butler service at Hotel Proverbs brings their philosophy of “Indulge Yourself” to life for all guests to enjoy.
W HOTEL
Address: No. 10, Section 5 of Zhongxiao East RoadSection 5 of Zhongxiao E Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110
Instagram: @wtaipei
Elevate your Taipei experience at the W Hotel, where vibrant energy marries understated luxury. Located in the glitzy Xinyi district, W Hotel exudes cosmopolitan and urban chic vibes for the modern traveler. Though located at a prime spot, the options within the hotel’s eclectic walls are endless. Come and rewind at the AWAY® spa, take a dip at the iconic WET® outdoor pool, or pamper your taste buds with Cantonese cuisine at YEN restaurant. Local and international crowds mingle at the vibrant WOOBAR, whilst those seeking for quiet nightcaps head to YEN bar. W Hotel is more than a destination – it’s a lifestyle.
THE BEST FINE DINING IN TAIPEI
LOGY
Address: 1F., No.6, Lane 109, Sec.1, Anhe Rd., Daan District, Taipei, Taiwan 106
Opening Hours: Wed – Sun, 5:30pm – 10:30pm
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: @logy.tw
Awarded with two Michelin stars and hailed as one of Asia’s 50 Best Restaurants, logy is a fine dining experience not to be missed in Taipei. Behind this restaurant is mastermind Chef Ryogo Tahara, who celebrates the diversity of flavours within Asia with refined culinary techniques stemming from his Japanese roots. The intimate seating at logy allows guests to take front row seats to the exquisite culinary journey presented within its open kitchen. Though the omakase menu changes every two months, staples such as chawanmushi fused with Taiwanese flavours is a constant throughout the year as a fan-favorite.
RAW
Address: No. 301號, Lequn 3rd Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10491
Opening Hours: Wed – Sun, 11:30am – 2:30pm ; 6pm – 10pm
Contact: +886 2 8501 5800
Instagram: @raw_taipei
RAW is a pioneer in the “Bistronomy” style cooking originating from France, serving fine dining quality cuisine in a relaxed setting. A dining concept by celebrated Chef André Chiang, this two Michelin-starred restaurant features a futuristic interior juxtaposed with earthy and wood tones. Their innovative 10-course menu fluctuates with the seasons, reinventing Taiwanese ingredients with a French touch.
COAST
Address: No. 3, Ln. 39, Sec. 2, Zhongshan N. Rd., Taipei 104, Taiwan | B2, Regent Taipei
Opening Hours: Daily, 5:30pm – 11pm
Contact: +886 2 2567 0237
Instagram: @coasttaiwan
As the name suggests, COAST is a culinary experience featuring fresh seafood as its leading role. This dining concept focuses on natural and fresh ingredients, which is simultaneously reflected through its ocean-blue interior and neutral tones. Be prepared for a tantalizing 9-course meal as Chef Ian Kittichai seamlessly combines the sweet and spicy flavours found in Thai cuisine paired with fresh Taiwanese ingredients.
HOLT
Address: No. 11, Alley 6, Lane 113, Section 3, Minsheng E Rd, Songshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 105
Opening Hours: Friday and Sunday from 12:00 pm — 3:30 pm (lunch) ; Wednesday — Sunday 6:00 pm — 10:30 pm (dinner)
Contact: +886 2 2545 1113
Instagram: @holtrestaurant
Embark on a culinary journey at holt, a modern European restaurant located in a quiet neighborhood in Taipei. With experience from Michelin starred restaurants from around the world, Chef Jeffrey Downs reinvents European cuisine with ingredients sourced locally. The restaurant’s minimal interior and open kitchen is the perfect backdrop for its delicate and mouth watering dishes. From exquisitely prepared courses to impeccable service, holt invites you to indulge in a journey of taste where every bite is a celebration of artistry and gastronomy, making it a destination cherished by food connoisseurs and enthusiasts alike.
LONGTAIL
Address: No. 174, Section 2, Dunhua S Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106
Opening Hours: Sunday, Monday, Wednesday 6pm – 12:30am ; Thursday, Friday, Saturday 6pm – 1:30am
Contact: +886 2 2732 6616
Instagram: @longtail.taipei
With a trendy yet relaxed setting, Longtail is the perfect destination for good vibes, creative cocktails and delicious food. Situated in the heart of the city, Longtail delivers soulful flavours from across the world to your taste buds. Think of creamy uni on crispy rice, scrumptious pork chop in sukiyaki sauce, and Kaya French toast with espresso ice cream. With a commitment to creativity and authenticity, Longtail promises an unforgettable dining experience.
Address: No. 277, Sec. 2, Xinyi Rd., Taipei City
Opening Hours: Hours: Mon – Fri, 11:00am – 8:30pm ; Weekends & Holidays, 10:30am – 8:30pm
Contact: +886-2-2395-2395
Instagram: @dintaifung.tw
Step into a culinary legend at Din Tai Fung, where the art of dumpling is perfected and brought to life. Though Din Tai Fung can be found all over the world, its humble origins in Taipei is not to be missed for locals and travelers alike. Din Tai Fung’s iconic dish, soup dumplings otherwise known as xiaolongbao, is made world-famous for its meticulous craftsmanship and bursts of savory flavours. With a legacy of top service and attention to detail, Din Tai Fung is a must-eat spot for anyone visiting Taipei.
DA-WAN
Address: No.199, 5F, Jingye 2nd rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 104 Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs, 5pm – 12am ; Fri & Sat, 5pm – 1am
Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs, 5pm – 12am ; Fri & Sat, 5pm – 1am
Contact: +886 2 2711 0179
Instagram: @dawan_yakiniku
Prepared to be forever changed with your definition of barbecue after a dining experience at Da-Wan. A restaurant dedicated to the Japanese grilling style known as yakiniku, Da-Wan delivers the most high-end melt in your mouth wagyu beef that will keep you wanting more. Striving for utmost excellence from beginning to end, expect cheerful greetings, dedicated servers for each dining group, and friendly chats at this delicious hot spot.
ORANGE SHABU SHABU (Da An)
Address: B1, 135, Section 1, Da’an Road, Da’an District, Taipei, 106, Taiwan
Opening Hours: Daily, 11:30am – 2:30am
Contact: +886 2 2776 1658
Instagram: @orangeshabushabu
Taste the ultimate comfort food at Orange Shabu Shabu. This stylish restaurant features endless choices of quality ingredients including thinly sliced meat, fresh seafood, and seasonal vegetables – all cooked in piping hot broth for a unique dining experience. A haven for rainy cold winter days, the hot pot at Orange Shabu Shabu is like a warm hug for your belly! Don’t forget to end the meal with their signature rice congee that will be the perfect ending to a delicious meal.
BOTTLESS
Address: 26-1, Qingcheng Street, Songshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan
Opening Hours: Mon – Sun, 11am – 3pm ; 5:30pm -10:30pm
Contact: +886 2 2514 0089
Instagram: @bottlesstw
“It isn’t good to keep things bottled up” is the philosophy in which Bottless stands behind – and they sure don’t disappoint on that front. With a lively and vibrant atmosphere, Bottless serves up international tapas with creative flair that’ll tickle your tastebuds. Grab a fun group and enjoy endless wine at Bottless to forget your worries and enjoy the night away!
SAFFRON 46
Address: Breeze Nan Shan, No.17, 46F, Songzhi Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110
Opening Hours: Sun – Thurs, 11:30am – 11pm ; Fri & Sat, 11:30am – 12:30am
Contact: +886 2 2722 5151
Instagram: @saffron46.taipei
Set in the 46th floor of the premiere shopping mall Breeze Nan Shan, Saffron 46 offers high-end Indian cuisine topped with unparalleled views of Taipei’s skyline. Ideal for a romantic date or intimate gathering with friends, this restaurant boasts classy interior, delicious signature dishes such as lobster curry, and tantalizing cocktails to sip on.
THE BEST BARS IN TAIPEI
INDULGE EXPERIMENTAL BISTRO
Address: No. 11, Lane 219, Section 1, Fuxing S Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106
Opening Hours: Tues – Thurs, Sun 6pm – 1am ; Fri – Sat, 6pm – 2am
Contact: +886 2 2773 0080
Instagram: @indulgebistro
Holding its position in the top 10 of Asia’s 50 Best Bars since 2017, Indulge Experimental Bistro is not to be missed in a night out in Taipei. Indulge Experimental Bistro creatively pays homage to its roots by combining unique flavours of Taiwan into a single cocktail glass. From locally sourced teas to herbs ranging from wood notes to floral aromas, the cocktails at Indulge Experimental Bistro brings fresh flavours that will delight your taste buds.
TESTING ROOM (at Draft Land)
Address: No.2, 2F, Zhongxiao E Rd, Section 4, Lane 248, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106
Opening Hours: Weekdays, 8pm – 1am; Weekends, 8pm – 2am
Instagram: @testingroomtw
Hidden upstairs of a popular spot for draft beers, Testing Room is not what you’d expect from the outside. Downstairs, draft beers flow through vibrant crowds at Draft Land. Make your way through the crowd and up the stairs, and you’ll find a very different vibe at Testing Room. Here, it’s darker, moodier and sexier. The Testing Room is a bar where creativity never ends. Using the seasons as their guide, this bar changes its drinks as each season comes and goes. The menu resembles a map to guide your tastebuds to the perfect libation. There’s something for everyone at Testing Room.
ROOM BY LE KIEF
Address: No. 10, Alley 5, Lane 107,Section 1, Fuxing South Road, Da’an District, Taipei City, 106
Opening Hours: Thurs – Sun, 7pm – 9:30pm, 10pm – 1am
Contact: +886 2 2711 6007
Instagram: @room_by_le_kief
Step into ROOM by Le Kief and you’ll find an avant garde cocktail bar promising an immersive experience from beginning to end. Before 10pm, patrons can enjoy a tasting menu of small bites harmoniously accompanied with innovative cocktails. An intimate setting with futuristic decor, ROOM by Le Kief is anything but your traditional cocktail bar.
Address: No. 553號, Guangfu S Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110
Opening Hours: Thurs – Mon, 8pm – 2am
Contact: [email protected]
Instagram: @tei_by_obond
Set in a minimalistic designed interior, Tei by Obond celebrates the tea culture to be found in Taiwan. Unlike most bars, this spot exudes zen-like vibes, allowing guests to zone in their senses to the drink at hand. All cocktails found here are tea-infused and tea-based, creating delicate flavours that are authentically Taiwanese with a creative touch.
CÉ LA VI
Address: No.17, 48F, Songzhi Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110 (Breeze Nanshan)
Opening Hours: Thurs – Mon, 8pm – 2am
Contact: +886 909 956 000
Instagram: @celavitaipei
CÉ LA VI needs no introduction as one of the glitziest bars found in Asia. Set on the rooftop of Breeze Nanshan, CÉ LA VI boasts jaw dropping glimmering views of Taipei City and all around good vibes. Up here you can indulge in tasty and fresh contemporary Asian cuisine, crafted and unique premium cocktails and world class entertainment while overlooking Taipei.
5 MUST DO’S IN TAIWAN
Taste local flavours at a night market
A Taiwan trip isn’t complete without a visit to the night markets. Scattered across the country, night markets come to life as the sun sets. It is the perfect spot to explore local flavours with endless food vendors lined side by side. In night markets, you’ll find bite-sized fried chicken bursting with flavours to stinky tofu which tastes a lot better than it smells. If in Taipei, head to the famous Shilin Night Market or Raohe Street Night Market.
Step through time in Jiufen
Weave through narrow alleyways lined with traditional lanterns and get whisked away to the olden days at Jiufen. Located in the northeastern mountains of Taiwan, Jiufen is famous for its resemblance to the real-life version of Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away. Head to Jiufen for a day trip away from Taipei and sip on hot tea while enjoying the view from Jiufen, or explore the local shops tucked in the alleyways.
Visit the tranquil Sun Moon Lake
Set in the foothills of Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range lies the tranquil Sun Moon Lake. Sun Moon Lake is surrounded by tree-lined foot trails and bike paths for all ages to take a step back from city life and connect with nature. Rent bicycles to explore around the lake, hop on a boat excursion to neighboring towns, or grab a stand up paddle for water sports. For those looking to stay overnight, check-in to THE LALU, a luxury resort designed by renowned architect Kerry Hill that overlooks the lake.
Explore Taiwan’s pristine nature at Taroko National Park
With dramatic cliffs and clear blue waters, Taroko National Park is a wonderland for nature lovers. Located two and a half hours outside of Taipei, this is a place best experienced with an expert guide to take you around. Discover suspension bridges, historic tunnels, and hiking paths with jaw dropping views at Taroko National Park. As one of the many natural treasures of Taiwan, Taroko Gorge is not to be missed.
Island hop around Taiwan’s dreamy archipelagos
Aside from the main island of Taiwan, a few surrounding offshore islands considered part of Taiwan are worth the trip out. With options from domestic flights to boat rides, these islands are perfect for a mini tropical getaway. Lush tropical beaches and untamed coastlines to captivating cultural landmarks and rich histories, each archipelago has a unique story to tell. Take Lambai Island for instance, where the endangered green sea turtles wade around the pristine coastline.
We hope you enjoyed our Taipei Travel Guide written in collaboration with @patriciatsai – uncovering the trendiest spots this vibrant city has to offer.
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