The National Palace Museum is home to thousands of years of Chinese art and culture. Spend your morning exploring the museum's extensive collection of paintings, calligraphy, ceramics, and more. For lunch, head to the museum's restaurant, Silk Palace, which offers delicious Chinese cuisine and a stunning view of the surrounding mountains. In the afternoon, take a stroll through the museum's beautiful gardens and visit the Shung Ye Museum of Formosan Aborigines, which showcases the art and culture of Taiwan's indigenous peoples. For dinner, try Din Tai Fung, a renowned restaurant chain known for its steamed dumplings.
Start your day at Taipei 101, once the tallest building in the world. Take in the panoramic views from the observation deck on the 89th floor, and marvel at the building's architectural design. For lunch, head to the food court in the basement of Taipei 101, where you can find a variety of local and international cuisine. In the afternoon, hike up Elephant Mountain for breathtaking views of Taipei and Taipei 101. Be sure to bring sturdy shoes and plenty of water, as the hike can be steep and strenuous. For dinner, head to Addiction Aquatic Development, a seafood market that offers a variety of fresh seafood dishes.
If you have time, consider visiting the Beitou Hot Springs for a relaxing soak in natural hot springs. You can also take a day trip to Jiufen, a charming mountain town known for its narrow streets, tea houses, and stunning views of the coast. For a unique experience, check out the Huashan 1914 Creative Park, a former winery that has been converted into an art and culture center.