Taipei Travel Itinerary 2026
Asia's treasure box of food and culture
Day:
Category:
Taipei Classic Highlights
Temples, landmarks, and night markets -- the essential Taipei experience
Estimated 2-day budget: Approx. NT$2,000-4,000
Day 1
1
Longshan Temple
History & Culture龍山寺
Founded in 1738, this is Taipei's oldest temple. Famous for blessings of love and prosperity, the unique fortune-telling ritual with crescent-shaped wooden blocks makes for a memorable experience.
Time09:00-10:00 (60 min)
AccessExit 1 of Longshan Temple Station (MRT Bannan Line)
BudgetFree
TipsFortune blocks (jiaobei) are free to use. Toss the crescent-shaped wooden blocks to seek divine guidance. Free incense is available at the entrance.
2
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
History & Landmark中正紀念堂
A grand white monument honoring Chiang Kai-shek. The hourly changing of the guard ceremony is a must-see, and the vast grounds serve as a popular public park.
Time10:30-12:00 (90 min)
AccessExit 5 of Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Station (MRT Tamsui-Xinyi / Songshan-Xindian Line)
BudgetFree
TipsGuard changing ceremony takes place on the hour (9:00-17:00). The 89 steps leading up symbolize Chiang Kai-shek's age at death.
3
Yongkang Street
Food & Shopping永康街
Taipei's premier food street. Home to legendary xiao long bao restaurants, popular mango shaved ice shops, and boba tea joints.
Time12:15-13:45 (90 min)
AccessExit 5 of Dongmen Station (MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line)
BudgetNT$300-600 (lunch included)
TipsDin Tai Fung's original location always has a long queue. Nearby Jin Ji Yuan is a local favorite for affordable xiao long bao (from NT$90 per basket).
4
Taipei 101
Observation & Landmark台北101
Taipei's iconic 508-meter skyscraper. The observatory on the 89th floor offers panoramic views of the Taipei basin, and the basement food court is excellent.
Time14:15-15:45 (90 min)
AccessExit 4 of Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station (MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line)
BudgetNT$600 (observatory)
TipsOnline booking offers discounts. Afternoon sun causes glare on the west side, so morning or evening visits are best. Don't miss the massive wind damper.
5
Shilin Night Market
Food & Nightlife士林夜市
Taipei's largest night market. The underground food court features iconic dishes like giant fried chicken cutlet and pepper buns, while street-level stalls sell games and clothing.
Time18:00-20:00 (120 min)
Access3-min walk from Exit 1 of Jiantan Station (MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line)
BudgetNT$300-500
TipsThe nearest station is Jiantan (not Shilin). The underground food court is mostly cash only. Giant fried chicken (NT$70) is a must-try.
Day 2
6
Jiufen
Sightseeing & Scenic九份
A charming hillside town with retro streetscapes. The lantern-lit stairway alleys create a magical atmosphere, and the views from traditional teahouses are spectacular.
Time09:00-12:00 (180 min)
AccessBus 1062 from Taipei Main Station (~90 min), or bus from Ruifang Station (~15 min)
BudgetNT$300-500 (tea & snacks)
TipsWeekday mornings are least crowded. Enjoying Taiwanese tea at A-Mei Tea House is a classic experience. Return buses can be very crowded, so plan extra time.
7
Shifen
Experience & Sightseeing十分
Famous for sky lantern releases. Writing your wishes on a lantern and releasing it into the sky right on the train tracks is a highlight of any Taiwan trip.
Time13:00-14:30 (90 min)
AccessPingxi Line train from Ruifang Station (~30 min)
BudgetNT$150-200 (one sky lantern)
TipsLantern colors carry different meanings (red for health, yellow for wealth, etc.). Shifen Waterfall is a 15-minute walk away.
8
Tamsui
Sightseeing & Food淡水
A harbor town on the outskirts of Taipei. Renowned for its stunning sunsets, the old street offers unique local snacks like agei (stuffed tofu) and iron eggs.
Time16:00-18:00 (120 min)
AccessTamsui Station (MRT Tamsui-Xinyi Line, last stop)
BudgetNT$200-400
TipsArrive about an hour before sunset to enjoy both the old street and the sunset. Taking the ferry to Fisherman's Wharf is also recommended.
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1
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2
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Frequently Asked Questions
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Taiwan's night market street food is a major draw, but food-related illness is possible. Hospital visits without travel insurance can cost hundreds to thousands of USD. Travel insurance is strongly recommended.