Try the famous xiaolongbao and signature dishes at the internationally known restaurant located near Taipei 101—great introduction to Taiwanese flavors.
A short, steep trail (20–40 minutes) that gives the best skyline shots of Taipei and Taipei 101—go in daylight for the views; trail is open year-round.
Enjoy a classic Taiwanese breakfast of soy milk, egg crepe and youtiao; the shop opens early (around 5:00am) so mornings are ideal before you head north.
Visit this preserved Japanese-era bathhouse to learn about Beitou’s hot spring history and local culture; museum hours are typically 9:00am–5:00pm (closed some Mondays).
See the steaming sulfurous pool that’s the source of Beitou’s hot springs—short walk from the museum and open daily during daylight hours; great photo stop.
Relax in a public bath (e.g., Beitou Public Hot Spring) or book a private room at a ryokan-style hotel; many operate from morning to late evening—perfect for a restorative soak.
Short drive or bus from Beitou to Yangmingshan to enjoy volcanic landscapes, flower fields (Zhuzihu), and easy walking trails—park is open dawn to dusk.
Try fried chicken, oyster omelet and shaved ice at Shilin Night Market (open ~5:00pm–midnight), or opt for a seafood-focused meal at a local restaurant.
Wander themed streets, quirky shops and wooden architecture inspired by folklore—the village is a unique cultural and photo-friendly stop with free entry.
Walk through tranquil bamboo groves and forest trails in the Xitou Nature Education Area, open sunrise to sunset and ideal for nature photography and fresh air.
Visit one of Taipei’s oldest and most ornate temples to experience local religious life and intricate architecture; best in the morning when it’s calmer.
Explore Dadaocheng’s tea houses, vintage shops and Chinese medicine stores; sample Taiwanese oolong and pick up souvenirs in a historic riverside neighborhood.
Visit the grand plaza, watch the Changing of the Guard (check schedule), and step into the memorial hall for modern historical context—site open ~9:00am–5:00pm.
Finish with classic Taiwanese street snacks like oyster omelet, pork rice and sweet potato balls at this popular, slightly smaller night market—open into the evening.