Top 10 Things to Do in Taipei in 2026

The Elephant Mountain Hike provides the definitive skyline view of Taipei 101, distinct from being inside the tower itself (#1). This moderate 20–30 minute climb ascends nearly 200 meters via stone steps, accessible from Xiangshan MRT Station. Visit early morning or late afternoon to capture the city in optimal light while avoiding midday heat and crowds. As a free activity, it offers a refreshing contrast to the hustle of the National Palace Museum (#3) and a rewarding vista without any admission cost.

Step into the spiritual heart of Taipei at Longshan Temple, a magnificent 280-year-old temple established in 1738. This active place of worship uniquely blends Buddhist, Taoist, and Confucian faiths, setting it apart from many temples dedicated to a single deity. Its ornate carvings, intricate roof designs, and rare bronze dragon pillars in the front hall exemplify traditional Taiwanese temple architecture. Despite extensive rebuilding in 1957 following war damage, its historical importance as a gathering place for early Han immigrants from Fujian province remains profound.

Escape the urban intensity of downtown Taipei with a visit to Beitou Hot Springs, a volcanic thermal oasis just a 30-minute MRT ride away. In contrast to the metropolitan views from Taipei 101, Beitou provides a tranquil, natural environment. The area offers a range of public and private hot spring options, with public bath prices starting around NT$60. Its development into a renowned hot spring destination by the Japanese is still evident in the architecture and the Beitou Hot Spring Museum. Take the MRT to Xinbeitou Station to easily access attractions such as the Beitou Thermal Valley, known for its steamy, sulfuric lake, and the Beitou Public Hot Spring. The cooler months from October to April are ideal for enjoying the therapeutic waters, offering a serene counterpoint to Taipei's bustling city life.

Journey back in time with a leisurely stroll through Dadaocheng, one of Taipei's most historically preserved neighborhoods, centered around Dihua Street. This area flourished as a primary trading hub during the Qing Dynasty and Japanese colonial period, specializing in tea, fabrics, and traditional Chinese medicines. Many buildings along Dihua Street are over a century old, with some dating back to the 1850s, and have been thoughtfully preserved or reimagined as trendy cafes and craft shops. The street truly comes alive in the weeks leading up to Lunar New Year, transforming into a bustling market for seasonal goods.

Experience a more intimate night market atmosphere at Raohe Night Market, a single-lane strip celebrated for its culinary offerings. A must-try is the Fuzhou Black Pepper Buns, a Michelin-recommended stall famous for its crispy, charcoal-baked buns filled with peppery minced pork. Another popular local favorite is the medicinal herb pork rib soup, known for its aromatic broth. You’ll also find various other local specialties like fried pork ribs, grilled squid, and Taiwanese ice cream rolls. Located conveniently near the Songshan MRT station, Raohe provides a manageable, yet equally delicious, night market adventure, with many stalls open well into the evening.

Ascend above the city on the Maokong Gondola for a tranquil escape and a deep dive into Taipei's tea culture. Maokong is renowned for its oolong tea plantations and traditional teahouses, where you can savor freshly brewed local varieties. Many teahouses also offer a selection of Taiwanese snacks and meals, perfect for a relaxed afternoon. The Maokong Gondola is approximately 4.3 kilometers long and takes about 20-30 minutes to travel one-way, offering scenic views of the Zhinan Temple and Taipei Zoo along the route. Opting for a crystal cabin with a glass bottom enhances the experience, offering a unique perspective of the landscape below.

Discover a vibrant hub of art and culture at Huashan 1914 Creative Park, a beautifully repurposed industrial complex. Originally established in 1914 as a sake and camphor factory during Japanese rule, the site was revitalized in the early 2000s and officially reopened in 2005 as a dynamic cultural space. The park's well-preserved industrial architecture provides a unique backdrop for modern creativity. Entrance to the park grounds is free, though individual exhibitions or events may have separate fees. It's an excellent spot to witness Taiwan's burgeoning creative scene, with many shops and galleries operating from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM.