Best Area to Stay in Taipei

Are you traveling to Taipei for the first time? Then, it would help if you prepared well. These include finding the best area to stay in Taipei. While this city is among the safest travel destinations and features numerous hotels, navigating it can be tricky. There are twelve administrative districts to choose from, which might be confusing. In addition, some neighborhoods are better than others and might be ideal for specific groups or suit specific travel interests. So, we present you with this blog, which lists the best places/neighborhoods in Taiwan‘s capital.

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Zhongzheng District: Best For First-Timers

The best area for first-timers to stay in Taipei is the Zhongzheng District. It is a cultural hub with many attractions and a shopping paradise. It houses Taipei Main Station, the city’s major metro and railway station. From there you can catch a train and bus to anywhere. Furthermore, this neighborhood is home to many national government buildings. It also features diverse accommodations, from luxurious 5-star hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Check out the must-visit places of this district down below:

Visit The Magnificient Presidential Office Building

• Address: No. 122號, Section 1, Chongqing S Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 11:30 AM
• Social Media: Official Website

Ever wonder where the president works in Taiwan? It’s nowhere else than the Presidential Office Building in Zhongzheng District. Under Japanese rule, it was initially known as the Taiwan Governor-General’s Office. The building has undergone massive changes from its original design. Today’s Presidential Palace is five stories high and has many advanced equipment systems, including elevators, boiler hot water, and garbage collection systems. Visitors can tour the building and see where the president works.

Learn A Thing Or Two At The National Taiwan Museum

• Address: No. 2, Xiangyang Rd, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan 100; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 5 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Next, visit Taiwan’s oldest museum, the National Taiwan Museum. It was built in 1908 by the Japanese colonial government. This museum is an architectural masterpiece featuring a classical style with Renaissance-style windows, a Greek temple facade, and a Pantheon-like vaulted ceiling. It houses hundreds of collections in its four branches: the Main Building, the Natural History Branch, the Nanmen Branch, and the Railway Department Park. In addition to showcasing permanent displays, it often hosts special exhibitions.

Learn About China’s Great Leader At Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

• Address: 100, Taiwan, Taipei City, Zhongzheng District; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 9 AM – 6 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

You can walk to the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall from your hotel. It honors the first president of the Republic of China, Chiang Kai-shek. The hall is spread across 15,000 square meters and houses a library and a museum documenting Chiang’s life and career. It also houses many permanent displays and temporary art exhibitions. Moreover, the memorial hall often hosts arts and cultural performances, lectures, seminars, and interactive teaching activities.

Wanhua District: Best For Shoppers

Taipei’s oldest region, Wanhua District, offers everything from cultural heritage to shopping opportunities. It is divided into northern, central, and southern regions. This district houses some of the oldest temples and historic buildings. However, it is no longer stuck in time and keeps up with the latest trends through its shopping districts. This perfect balance between modern and traditional attractions makes Wanhua one of the coolest areas to live in Taipei.

Shop Till You Drop At Ximending

• Address: Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108; Google Map
• Things To Do: Shopping, Sightseeing, Exploring Nightlife

Are you a diehard shopper? If so, you must visit Taiwan’s largest shopping district, Ximen. It is even compared to the likes of Shibuya and Harajuku. Here, you can find everything from the tiniest accessories to high-brand clothing. This district houses several trendy boutiques, thrift shops, clothing outlets, and souvenir shops. In addition, Ximending is a mecca for youth culture and keeps up to date with the latest fashion trends. It also houses many bars, theaters, clubs, and restaurants.

Bask In The Spiritual Atmosphere Of Longshan Temple

• Address: No. 211, Guangzhou St, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10853; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 6 AM – 9:30 PM
• Social Media: Official Website

While Ximending represents modern attractions, ancient shrines like Longshan Temple take visitors back to the past. This is Taipei’s oldest temple, whose origin dates back to the 1700s. It has survived wars and disasters and is among the must-visit places in Taiwan, alongside the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and the National Palace Museum. This shrine worships Guyanshiyin Buddha and several more divine spirits. It regularly hosts festivals and folk activities, including the lantern exhibition, the Buddha Bathing Festival, and the Bon Festival.

Try Unique Dishes At The Huaxi Street Night Market

• Address: Huaxi St, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 4 PM – 12 AM
• Things To Do: Shopping, Dining

Did you know Taipei does not have a red-light district? However, Wanhua was once known as such, and the Huaxi Street Night Market featured numerous brothels. The market was also called Snake Alley because its restaurants sold snake meat, snake wine, and snake-related dishes. Moreover, the restaurant owners carried out live snake killings to attract tourists. While these inhumane acts are forbidden now, visitors can still try snake cuisine in some of the food stalls in the Huaxi Street Night Market. They will also find various Taipei classics, including oyster omelets, thick squid soup, goose meatballs, etc.

Visit The Red House (Ho Long Red Theater)

• Address: No. 10號, Chengdu Rd, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 11 AM – 8 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Next, the Red House is a heritage building in the Wanhua District. Japanese architect Kondo Juro constructed Ho Long Red Theater in 1908. It was one of Taipei’s earliest public markets and was the entertainment center for nearby neighborhoods. More than a century later, this building still retains its original charm with its red-brick octagonal structure. Its two floors have many craft stalls, art galleries, and independent design shops selling quirky gifts and Taiwanese fashion apparel.

Xinyi District: Best Nightlife And Luxurious Living

Would you like to live in Taipei’s high-end district, Xinyi District? It is all about luxury and sophisticated living. This district is the center of fashion and features many shopping centers and department stores. It is also a financial hub, housing many large-scale organizations, luxurious hotels, and corporate headquarters. Furthermore, this neighborhood is known for its thriving nightlife scene and diverse entertainment options. The cost of living is comparatively high here, with expensive housing costing around NT$1 billion.

Feel Small Next To Taipei 101

• Address: No. 7, Section 5, Xinyi Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 9 PM
• Social Media: Official Website

Xinyi District is home to Taipei’s tallest structure, Taipei 101. It held the position of the world’s tallest building from its opening in 2004 until 2007. This skyscraper is a must-visit destination in Taiwan and welcomes thousands of monthly visitors. It offers panoramic views of the city and welcomes stunning sunrises and sunsets. You can even see distant mountains when the weather is clear. Furthermore, Taipei 101’s innovative design has achieved international recognition. Its architectural resilience against earthquakes also deserves praise.

Go Hiking To Elephant Mountain

• Address: No. 31, Alley 401, Lane 150, Section 5, Xinyi Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 24 hours
• Things To Do: Hiking, Sightseeing

If Taipei 101 didn’t satisfy you from overlooking the city, head to Elephant Mountain. This famous hiking destination offers stunning views of the entire city. You can follow the trail at your own pace alone or with your guide. This short hike with steep ways could challenge even an experienced hiker. If you prefer outdoor activities or adventures, you must try this hike. Don’t forget to wear sturdy shoes, bring enough water, and protect your skin from sunburn.

Dance The Night Away In Nighclubs

Xinyi District boasts a rich nightlife scene. You will find many nightclubs, bars, lounges, and discos here. These establishments are open all night, so you can dance and enjoy clubbing to your heart’s content. You can also relax with a drink in your hand at cozy bars. The options are limitless; you only need to get out and explore. Check out some of the top entertainment venues in this district.

• Barcode: 110, Taiwan, Taipei City, Xinyi District, Songshou Rd, 22號5樓; 9 PM – 3 AM
• IKON Taipei: No. 22號, Songshou Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110; 10 PM – 4 AM
• Ai Nightclub: 110, Taiwan, Taipei City, Xinyi District, Songshou Rd, 12號7F; 10:30 PM – 4:30 AM
• WAVE CLUB Taipei: 110, Taiwan, Taipei City, Xinyi District, Songshou Rd, 12號7樓; 10 PM – 4 AM
• Wet Bar: No. 10, Section 5 of Zhongxiao East RoadSection 5 of Zhongxiao E Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110; 7 PM – 10:30 PM

Attend Events At The Songshan Cultural And Creative Park

• Address: No. 133號, Guangfu S Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 11072; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 8 AM – 10 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

The Songshan Cultural and Creative Park is Taipei’s central hub. Originally a Japanese-built tobacco factory, it was converted into a thriving cultural hub in 2011 to nurture creative talents and energy. As such, this park often hosts artistic, creative, and cultural events, including fashion shows, film shootings, award ceremonies, short-term exhibitions, symposiums, and press conferences. Visitors can attend lecture courses, explore the park, partake in workshops, and attend indoor/outdoor events.

Beitou District: Best For Hot Springs

If you prefer a quiet place away from the bustling city scene, Beitou District is your destination. This mountainous district is the northernmost of the 12 administrative districts. It is famous for its abundant hot springs, attracting tourists who come to soak and enjoy their medicinal benefits. This area has many public pools, onsen baths, and private hot springs. In addition, visitors can find diverse accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly inns.

Soak In Beitou Hot Springs

• Address: No. 6號, Zhongshan Rd, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan 112; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 5:30 AM – 10 PM

Beitou is rich in natural hot springs. Visitors will find both private and public pools here. You can go to Beitou Hot Springs inside Beitou Park if you want any recommendations. This public bath has been open since December 1988 and features six pools: 2 cold and 4 hot spring pools. In addition to indoor and outdoor bathing springs, the six-hectare park features a children’s hot spring play area, a hot spring education center, an administration center, and a topiary maze.

Learn About Hot Springs At Beitou Hot Spring Museum

• Address: No. 2, Zhongshan Rd, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan 112; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Beitou’s hot springs’ medicinal properties attract thousands of visitors yearly. While it’s fun to soak in hot water, have you ever wondered how they were formed? You can learn about the evolution of these hot springs at the Beitou Hot Spring Museum. It showcases many displays and collections and hosts educational activities. In addition, visitors can bathe in the bathing area and relax at the museum. They can mingle with other guests and play chess in the second-floor tatami lobby.

Datong District: Best For Budget Travelers

While Xinyi is for those who prefer luxury, Datong District caters to budget-conscious travelers. It was once a thriving commercial center and still retains buildings from the Qing Dynasty and the Japanese Colonial period. Moreover, this district features many exciting attractions, from ancient temples to unique museums and traditional shopping centers. It even houses one of Taipei’s top night markets.

Explore Markets In Dihua Street

• Address: Section 1, Dihua St, Datong District, Taipei City, Taiwan 103; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 24 hours
• Things To Do: Strolling, Shopping, Dining

Dihua Street is a famous Lunar New Year shopping destination. Taipei’s oldest street is conveniently between Nanjing W Road and Minquan W Road in Datong District. It offers an old-town ambiance with traditional shops selling Chinese medicines, herbs, incense, temple icons, bamboo and wooden crafts, colorful clothes, and tea. Visitors can also buy dried food and spices to take back home. In addition, many of the stores on this street have been in business for 100+ years.

Take Your Partner To The Xiahai City God Temple

• Address: No. 61, Section 1, Dihua St, Datong District, Taipei City, Taiwan 103; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 7 AM – 7 PM
• Social Media: Official Website

Dihua Street houses many historical buildings and ancient shrines, including the Xiahai City God Temple. This 19th-century temple is famous among couples. It houses the City God, his wife, the Chinese Cupid, and 600 other deities. Locals believe the Chinese cupid can bless people with a good marriage. You can see if it’s true by praying at this temple with your other half. The prayer instructions are available in English, Mandarin, and Japanese. Visitors can also buy offering items from the temple and offer them to the cupid.

Make A Wish At Bao’an Temple

• Address: No. 61, Hami St, Datong District, Taipei City, Taiwan 103; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 6 AM – 9 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook

Save money in Datong District by visiting free attractions like Bao’an Temple. This shrine, constructed in 1742, is dedicated to the Chinese and Taoism deity of medicine, the Bao-Sheng Emperor. It celebrates several festivals, including the three most important sacrificial activities. The first is Emperor Baosheng’s birthday ceremony on March 15. During the day, games and grand dramatic performances occur, and at night, a custom called setting fire lions occur. The other two sacrificial celebrations are the Celebration of Baosheng Dadi’s Ascension and the Ghost Festival (Zhongyuan Festival).

Eat And Drink All You Want At The Ningxia Night Market

• Address: 103, Taiwan, Taipei City, Datong District, Ningxia Rd, 58號2樓; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 5 PM – 1 AM
• Things To Do: Window shopping, Shopping, Food Tours

Taipei is known for its impressive street food scene. Think about all the crispy, oily, spicy, and sweet snacks. You can enjoy the best street foods in the Ningxia Night Market. It features Michelin-starred food stalls and restaurants selling classic Taiwanese dishes, including stinky tofu, Lu Rou Fan, Ji Rou Fan, fatty pork sausages, oyster pancakes, and fried sweet potato balls. In addition, these vendors charge less than that of restaurants. You can eat and drink through this street market without worrying about cost.

Watch Displays Of Taipei Museum of Contemporary Art

• Address: No. 39, Chang’an W Rd, Datong District, Taipei City, Taiwan 103; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

Datong District houses Taiwan’s first contemporary art museum, the Taipei Museum of Contemporary Art. It was initially an elementary school during Japanese rule. Since its founding in 2001, the museum has featured diverse contemporary media exhibitions, including architecture, photography, graphic design, and video installation. It also hosts camps, workshops, and educational events, including seminars, lectures, and art tours. Visitors can see the mind-blowing exhibitions and partake in available workshops.

Zhongshan District: Best For Families

The best area for families to stay in Taipei is the Zhongshan District. It is only 1 MRT Station away from Zhongzheng and features many recreational areas. This district also has many historical buildings, museums, temples, and creative markets. Visitors can hang out in cafes and shop in department stores, boutique shops, and second-hand stores.

Take Your Kids To Miramar Entertainment Park

• Address: 10491, Taiwan, Taipei City, Zhongshan District, Jingye 3rd Rd; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 1 PM – 10 PM
• Social Media: Official Website

The Miramar Entertainment Park is a must-visit place in Zhongshan District. This uniquely styled shopping mall features many new-age shopping and entertainment options. Its main hall features stores specializing in formal wear and fine apparel, while the auxiliary hall is all about the latest youth fashion. The latter also houses a giant Ferris wheel and an IMAX Theater. Kids can enjoy a 17-minute ride on the Ferris wheel while their parents can enjoy shopping. This place is also ideal for going on a date.

Pray At Xingtian Temple

• Address: No. 109, Section 2, Minquan E Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 10491; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 4 AM – 10 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook

Taipei’s busiest temple, Xingtian Temple, attracts over 10,000 visitors daily. It worships the god of business, Lord Guan Sheng Dijun, and four other gods: Lu Dongbin (the immortal of the sword), Wang Shan (the three-eyed thunder god), Zhang Dan (the kitchen god), and Yue Fei(a renowned Song-Dynasty general). Together, they are called the Five Saviors. The temple is also dedicated to Guan Yu’s son, Guan Ping, and Yu’s faithful general, Zhou Cang. This shrine’s main celebration is the Birthday of Guan Sheng Dijun on the 24th of the sixth lunar month.

Catch Fantastic TaipeiEYE Performances

• Address: No. 113號, Section 2, Zhongshan N Rd, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan 104; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 6:30 PM – 9 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook, Official Instagram

If you want a family-friendly activity in Zhongshan District, you should check out TaipeiEYE. This performing arts center showcases translated Chinese opera, dance, folk music, and puppet shows every Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday evening. Its famous shows include Monkey King, Thundering Drums and Dancing Lions, Legend of the White Snake, Monkey King Fighting the Cave Rats, Taiwan Puppet Carnival, and Joyful Arts for Kids. Each unique performance celebrates diverse Taiwanese culture, arts, and legends.

Explore The Miniatures Museum Of Taiwan

• Address: 10489, Taiwan, Taipei City, Zhongshan District, Section 1, Jianguo N Rd, 96號B1; Google Map
• Opening Hours: 10 AM – 6 PM
• Social Media: Official Website, Official Facebook

Children might not necessarily like museums, but not anymore. The Miniatures Museum of Taiwan has a different approach than your typical museum. Here, everything is in miniature forms, from people to houses. These realistic displays will hook anyone’s interest, including your little ones. This museum has 200 themed works, including the Dollhouse, Roomboxes, and Treetop Mine. The latter is the most miniature display. Each work is meticulously created and has a layered, detailed, and realistic appearance.

The best area to stay in Taipei is not limited to one place. All twelve administrative districts have distinctive features, making each an ideal living place. You can choose a neighborhood that suits your interests, budget, and preferences. While Taipei is a safe travel destination, Wanhua and Zhongshan Districts have high crime rates. You won’t get robbed or mugged in daylight, but practicing caution is always beneficial. You must also avoid sketchy areas of these neighborhoods, especially at night.