3-Day Itinerary
3-Day Taipei Itinerary
City landmarks, northern Taiwan's hot springs, and creative neighborhoods — the ultimate Taipei introduction.
City Landmarks & Icons
09:00 — 22:00 • 7 stops • MRT + Walking
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
Watch the guard-changing ceremony and explore the memorial hall. The Liberty Square plaza is one of Taipei's most photogenic spots.
Longshan Temple & Wanhua
Taipei's most historic temple with stunning dragon columns and wood carvings. Walk Bopiliao Old Street for a glimpse of Qing-era Taipei.
Lunch at Ximending
The Harajuku of Taipei. Try local street food, braised pork rice, or oyster omelets from the countless stalls and restaurants.
Ximending & Red House
Explore the vibrant pedestrian zone, the historic Red House Theater, and indie boutiques. A hub of youth culture and LGBTQ+ nightlife.
Taipei 101 Observatory
Ride the world's fastest elevator to the 89th floor. The view at sunset is unforgettable. Don't miss the tuned mass damper on the 88th floor.
Din Tai Fung Dinner
The original Taipei 101 branch of the world-famous soup dumpling restaurant. Order xiao long bao, spicy wontons, and chocolate dumplings.
Raohe Street Night Market
A local favorite with fewer tourists than Shilin. Try the famous pepper buns at the entrance, stinky tofu, and grilled squid.
Northern Taiwan: Art & Nature
09:00 — 22:00 • 6 stops • MRT Red Line
National Palace Museum
One of the world's finest collections of Chinese imperial art. The Jadeite Cabbage and Meat-Shaped Stone are must-sees. Allow 2.5 hours.
Lunch at Shilin
Eat near the museum or at the Shilin Tourist Night Market area, which has daytime food stalls and local favorites.
Beitou Hot Springs
Explore the Thermal Valley, Beitou Hot Springs Museum, and the stunning Beitou Public Library. The sulfur steam creates an otherworldly atmosphere.
Private Hot Spring Bath
Relax in a private sulfur hot spring bath at a local hotel. The waters are said to soothe skin conditions and muscle pain.
Tamsui River Sunset
Take the MRT to Tamsui for golden-hour views over the river. Walk the riverside promenade and the Lover Bridge at Fisherman's Wharf.
Dinner & Night Market in Tamsui
Tamsui Old Street has seafood restaurants, street snacks like iron eggs and fish balls, and a lively night market.
Creative Neighborhoods & Views
09:30 — 21:30 • 6 stops • MRT + Walking
Zhongshan Creative District
Start in the Zhongshan MRT area, known for its indie boutiques, art galleries, and tree-lined lanes. Visit the Taipei Fine Arts Museum nearby.
Lunch at Songshan
Head to the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park area for trendy cafes and restaurants in a former tobacco factory complex.
Songshan Cultural & Creative Park
A beautifully restored industrial park with design shops, art exhibitions, and the Eslite bookstore. A hub of Taipei's creative scene.
Elephant Mountain Hike
A short but steep hike to the best viewpoint of Taipei 101 and the city skyline. The stone steps take 20-30 minutes to the top.
Dinner at Tonghua Night Market
Also known as Linjiang Street Night Market. A local favorite with incredible food, fewer tourists, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Rooftop Bar or Night View
End your trip with a drink at a rooftop bar in Xinyi or a final view of the glittering city from a high vantage point.
Practical Tips for 3 Days
EasyCard Is Essential
Get an EasyCard at any MRT station. It works on trains, buses, and even at 7-Eleven and FamilyMart. Reload at any station.
National Palace Museum
Book online in advance. The museum is huge — focus on the top floors (Jadeite Cabbage, Meat-Shaped Stone) if time is limited.
Elephant Mountain Timing
Go late afternoon for the best light and fewer crowds. Bring water and good shoes — the stone steps are steep.
Hot Spring Tips
Many Beitou hotels offer private rooms by the hour. No reservation needed for most, but weekends can be busy.
Night Market Strategy
Start from one end and walk through. Share dishes with friends to try more. Cash is king — bring small bills.
Best Photo Spots
Elephant Mountain
The classic Taipei 101 photo. Arrive late afternoon for the best light. The stone steps lead to a perfect viewpoint.
Tamsui River Sunset
The Lover Bridge at Fisherman's Wharf is iconic. The sunset over the Taiwan Strait is breathtaking on clear days.
Songshan Cultural Park
The industrial architecture and modern design create a unique backdrop. The Eslite bookstore is photogenic inside and out.
Zhongshan Lanes
The tree-lined lanes and indie boutiques are charming. The mix of old and new Taipei is perfect for street photography.
Budget Breakdown
- EasyCard (3 days)NT$400
- CKS Memorial HallFree
- Longshan TempleFree
- Taipei 101 ObservatoryNT$600
- National Palace MuseumNT$350
- Beitou Hot SpringsNT$500
- Meals (3 days)NT$1,800
- TotalNT$3,650