Taiwan’s bustling capital is one of those cities that you never forget. If you’re planning a weekend in Taipei, congratulations! You’ve just signed up for a few days of sensory overload. The city greets you with the aroma of sizzling scallion pancakes, the glow of red lanterns, and the ever-present possibility of rain.
If you had to describe Taipei in a sentence, it would be something like: “A city where bubble tea flows like water, scooters outnumber humans, and the weather keeps you on your toes.” Spending a weekend in Taipei is like speed-dating with an overachieving metropolis.
There’s just too much to see, do, and eat, but it’ll charm you so thoroughly that you’ll want a second date. Here’s our comprehensive guide to spending a weekend in Taipei;
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Best Time to Visit Taipei
The best time to visit Taipei is during the spring months of March to April, when the weather is still cool and pleasant, and the region experiences minimal rainfall. This period is ideal for enjoying outdoor activities and witnessing the beauty of cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Another great option is autumn (late September to November). During the window, the temperatures are comfortable, humidity levels are lower, and rain is less frequent, providing a perfect climate for exploring the city.
Summer (June to August) can be quite hot and humid, with a higher chance of typhoons, making it less appealing for most travelers. While winter (December to February) offers milder temperatures, it can still be a bit chilly and rainy, making spring and autumn the top seasons for a visit.
Things to Do in Taipei
Hike to the top of Elephant Mountain
Elephant Mountain or Xiangshan is one of the most scenic viewpoints in Taipei. The mountain, named for its elephant-like shape, rises 183 meters above the city, and the trail to the summit is about 1.5 km long. The path features 600 steps, which can be challenging, especially when the temperature hits 30°C.
However, if you’re in reasonable shape, pacing yourself and staying hydrated will make the climb manageable. Once at the top, you’ll be greeted by a stunning panorama of Taipei’s skyline. The hike is quite popular, particularly on weekends, but I visited on a Wednesday, and the crowd was minimal.
To get there, simply take the metro to Xiangshan MRT station, and follow the well-marked signs guiding you up the trail. It’s a hike that offers both a physical challenge and a fantastic payoff in terms of scenic views. You’ll also be able to see the famous Taipei 101 from the mountain top.
Enjoy Scenic Views at Taipei 101
From the iconic Elephant Mountain, you get a spectacular view of the towering Taipei 101, but the reverse is equally mesmerizing. Once the tallest building in the world until the Burj Khalifa surpassed it in 2007, Taipei 101 continues to be a marvel with its unique bamboo-inspired design. To experience the panoramic views, take one of the world’s fastest elevators to the 89th floor, where you can stroll around behind glass and soak in the scenery.
For a more open-air experience, head to the 91st floor, or for the ultimate outdoor perspective, opt for the Skyline460 ticket for breathtaking views from the 101st floor. After all that sightseeing, satisfy your hunger with a trip to Din Tai Fung, conveniently located at the entrance of Taipei 101.
Known for its delicious soup dumplings, this restaurant offers a taste of Taiwanese cuisine that started right here in Taipei and has expanded internationally. Whether you’re visiting the original location on Xinyi Road or dining at the Taipei 101 branch, the dumplings are always a must-try.
Check Out the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial
A trip to Taipei isn’t complete without visiting the iconic Chiang Kai-shek Memorial, one of the city’s most famous landmarks. Chiang Kai-shek, who fled to Taiwan in 1949 after losing the Chinese Civil War to the communists, was Taiwan’s leader until his death in 1975.
While the memorial honors his legacy, the period of his rule was far from democratic. This has sparked debates about the appropriateness of commemorating a figure many consider a dictator. In recent years, there have been calls to rename and repurpose the site.
Nevertheless, the impressive Liberty Square, flanked by a massive gate and the grand Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, is still a major draw. Here, you can witness the ceremonial changing of the guard, which takes place every hour, adding a bit of ceremonial pomp to the historical significance of the site.
Stroll through Dihua Street (Taipei’s Oldest Street)
Strolling down Dihua Street offers a captivating glimpse into Taipei’s rich history. Dihua is the oldest street in Taipei, dating back to the 17th century during the Dutch colonial period. By the 19th century, it became the heart of Taipei’s commercial activities, and many of the buildings still standing today originate from that era.
As you walk along, you’ll feel transported to a time long past, with the charming architecture preserving the street’s authentic character. Though modern cafes and tourist-friendly shops now occupy some of the historical buildings, the area retains a much more genuine vibe than the bustling Ximending district. What makes Dihua Street truly special is its mix of time-honored stores, some of which have been in business for over a century.
Check out the National Palace Museum
The National Palace Museum offers a fascinating glimpse into China’s rich artistic history, particularly through its incredible collection of over 700,000 works of art. One of its most famous pieces is the exquisite jade Chinese cabbage, a tribute to the country’s deep culinary traditions.
The museum is located north of the city center, so you can simply take the metro to Jiannan Road and then a bus that conveniently stops right at the museum entrance. Spread across three floors, the museum’s expansive collection is well-organized. Most of the artwork was brought to Taiwan after the Chinese Civil War, preserving centuries of cultural heritage when the communists took control of mainland China.
Conclusion
A weekend in Taipei is a whirlwind of flavors, sights, and charming chaos. It’s a place where dumplings are worshipped, teahouses feel like time machines, and even a simple stroll can turn into a cultural deep dive.
