
You don’t just visit Taipei—you tap into a city that shape-shifts around your vibe. One moment you’re slurping beef noodle soup in a buzzing night market, the next you’re sipping tea on a misty mountain with nothing but temple bells and birdsong in the air. Taipei is all contrast—glassy skyscrapers, vintage alleyways, neon signage, quiet parks—and where you stay can totally shift your experience.
Every neighborhood hums with a different energy. Some are made for first-timers chasing iconic sights, others are built for food lovers, creative souls, night owls, or families who need space to breathe. Pick the right base, and you’ll spend less time commuting and more time living the Taipei you came for.
In this guide, I’ll break down the best areas to stay in Taipei, based on your travel style—whether you're here to temple-hop, bar-crawl, café-hop, or just chill and snack your way through the city. By the end, you’ll know exactly where to drop your bags and dive in.
Ximending – Taipei’s Youth Culture Capital

The Neighborhood That Never Sleeps
If you want neon lights, nonstop energy, and a taste of Taipei’s modern soul, Ximending is your playground. Often dubbed the “Harajuku of Taipei,” this pedestrian-only zone is where street fashion, pop-up art, and indie cafés collide with layers of history
Who Should Stay in Ximending?
✔ First-time visitors – Central, safe, and packed with energy.
✔ Nightlife lovers – Bars, arcades, street performances every night.
✔ Budget travelers – Tons of hostels, capsule hotels, and street eats.
✔ Solo travelers – Always busy, never lonely.
❌ Light sleepers – This area stays loud and lively until late.
Best Hotels in Ximending
- Luxury: Hotel Midtown Richardson – Right next to Ximen MRT and perfect for travelers who want comfort without the price tag of chain hotels.
- Mid-Range: Amba Taipei Ximending – Ultra-hip, artsy design with a great in-house café.
- Budget: Tomorrow Hotel – Clean, simple, and just steps from the MRT exit.
Best Things to Do in Ximending
- Red House Theater – Explore indie art markets and LGBTQ-friendly bars.
- Ximen Walking Street – Taipei’s answer to Tokyo’s Shibuya.
- Cinema Street – A must for movie buffs; this is where the Taiwanese box office buzz begins.
Food & Dining in Ximending

This is a street food lover’s paradise. Don’t leave without trying:
- Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodles – Iconic and spicy.
- HotStar Fried Chicken – Bigger than your face and wildly addictive.
- Modern Toilet Café – Weird, gimmicky, and oddly popular (you’ve been warned).
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest MRT: Ximen Station (Blue & Green lines – super central)
🚕 From Taoyuan Airport: ~40 mins by taxi (~NT$1,000) or take the airport MRT + MRT transfer.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Ximending
✅ Affordable and lively
✅ Great MRT access
✅ Street food galore
❌ Crowded and noisy
❌ Not ideal for travelers looking for peace or luxury
Daan – Green Spaces, Great Eats & Local Vibes

Where Locals Live—and Love to Eat
Daan feels like the soul of Taipei in slow motion. You’ll find university students biking through leafy lanes, families picnicking in Daan Forest Park, and long-time locals queued up for legendary dumplings. It’s a quieter kind of magic—more lived-in, less flashy.
Who Should Stay in Daan?
✔ Foodies – Home to the famous Yongkang Street and Michelin-rated street food.
✔ Families – Big parks, safe streets, and a more laid-back pace.
✔ Longer-term travelers – Feels residential, with local markets and lifestyle shops.
✔ Nature lovers – Daan Forest Park is Taipei’s answer to Central Park.
❌ Nightlife seekers – Not much going on after 10 PM.
Best Hotels in Daan
- Luxury: Kimpton Da An Hotel – A design-lover’s dream with rooftop views and boutique charm.
- Mid-Range: Dandy Hotel – Daan Park Branch – Cozy rooms and right across from the park.
- Budget: Star Hostel Taipei East – Stylish dorms and private rooms near cafés and MRT access.
Best Things to Do in Daan
- Daan Forest Park – Morning tai chi, evening walks, and turtles in the pond.
- Yongkang Street – Street food, vintage boutiques, and the original Din Tai Fung.
- National Taiwan University – Stroll the campus for history and local student life.
Food & Dining in Daan

This district is a foodie goldmine.
- Din Tai Fung (Xinyi Road) – The OG. Expect a wait. Worth it.
- Yongkang Beef Noodles – Spicy, rich broth with handmade noodles.
- Smoothie House – Mango shaved ice heaven in summer.
If you’re serious about food, you’ll want to spend more than a meal here.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest MRT: Daan Station (Red & Brown lines), Dongmen Station also nearby.
🚕 From Taoyuan Airport: ~45 mins by taxi (~NT$1,100) or use Airport MRT + Red Line transfer.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Daan
✅ Peaceful, leafy, and local
✅ Some of Taipei’s best food and cafés
✅ Well-connected but not touristy
❌ Not ideal if you want nightlife or luxury malls
❌ Fewer budget hostels compared to Ximending
Zhongshan – Stylish, Central, and Surprisingly Chill

Where Taipei’s Cool Crowd Checks In
Zhongshan is where boutique hotels, speakeasy bars, and stylish cafés all coexist without trying too hard. It’s the kind of place where you can sip a flat white in a converted heritage building by day, and then enjoy a quiet cocktail at a tucked-away jazz bar by night. Business, leisure, and lifestyle meet here—without the crowds of more obvious tourist zones.
Who Should Stay in Zhongshan?
✔ Business travelers – Close to offices, hotels with meeting rooms, and easy transit.
✔ Couples – Romantic boutique hotels, classy bars, and riverside walks.
✔ Mid-range to upscale travelers – Classy but not stuffy.
✔ Night owls – Low-key bars, lounges, and late-night food spots.
❌ Backpackers on a tight budget – This area leans more boutique than bargain.
❌ Families with young kids – Not much in terms of parks or kid-friendly attractions.
Best Hotels in Zhongshan
- Luxury: The Regent Taipei – Five-star comfort, rooftop pool, and a top-floor steakhouse with skyline views.
- Mid-Range: Hotel Proverbs Taipei – A sleek, design-forward hotel with a rooftop bar and splash of edge.
- Budget: Meander 1948 Hostel – Industrial-chic design and great for solo travelers looking for a stylish but wallet-friendly stay.
Best Things to Do in Zhongshan
- Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) – Creative, modern, and walkable from most hotels.
- Riverside Park (Dadaocheng Pier) – Go for a sunset bike ride or grab drinks by the water.
- Boutique Shopping on Chifeng Street – Indie Taiwanese fashion and vintage finds.
Food & Dining in Zhongshan

Zhongshan is refined but fun when it comes to dining.
- Shuanglian Market – Local breakfast like soy milk and fan tuan (rice rolls).
- Addiction Aquatic Development – High-end seafood market-meets-sushi bar.
- Bar Mood Taipei – For cocktails that feel like art.
Not a street food hotspot, but perfect for those who like sitting down somewhere stylish.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest MRT: Zhongshan Station (Red Line + transfer to Green Line nearby)
🚕 From Taoyuan Airport: ~35–45 mins by taxi (~NT$1,000) or use Airport MRT + Red Line.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Zhongshan
✅ Sleek hotels and classy nightlife
✅ Well-connected but less chaotic than Ximending
✅ Great for business or stylish city breaks
❌ Fewer budget options
❌ Not ideal for families or party-hard travelers
Xinyi – Taipei’s Luxury Playground & Skyscraper Central

Where the City Touches the Sky
If Taipei had a Manhattan, Xinyi would be it. This is where the skyline sharpens, fashion goes full designer, and Taipei 101 towers over the city like a glowing exclamation mark. It’s sleek, modern, and perfect for travelers who like their urban experiences polished and high-energy.
Who Should Stay in Xinyi?
✔ Luxury travelers – High-end hotels, Michelin dining, upscale malls.
✔ Business travelers – Near convention centers, corporate HQs, and efficient transit.
✔ First-timers who want to be near Taipei 101 – Iconic views and easy sightseeing.
✔ Shopping addicts – From Louis Vuitton to Uniqlo, it’s all here.
❌ Budget travelers – Few hostels, and restaurants lean pricey.
❌ Culture seekers – Not as “local” feeling as other areas.
Best Hotels in Xinyi
- Luxury: Grand Hyatt Taipei – Iconic 5-star hotel with direct Taipei 101 views and next-door access to the mall.
- Mid-Range: Humble House Taipei – Elegant but affordable, with an art-focused vibe and rooftop pool.
- Boutique: Pure meworld hotel – Modern, locally-inspired design right in the heart of the shopping zone.
Best Things to Do in Xinyi
- Taipei 101 Observatory – See the city from 89 floors up—timeless for a reason.
- Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) – 20-minute hike for the ultimate Taipei photo spot.
- ATT 4 FUN, Breeze Center & Shin Kong Mitsukoshi – Multi-level malls packed with fashion, food, and fun.
Food & Dining in Xinyi

Xinyi leans modern and international, but there are still local flavors if you know where to look.
- Din Tai Fung (Taipei 101 Branch) – Yes, it’s touristy, but it’s also consistently excellent.
- Shin Yeh Table – Upscale Taiwanese dining with stunning city views.
- Wu Pao Chun Bakery – Award-winning pastries and local-inspired loaves.
For night markets and classic eats, you’ll want to hop a few MRT stops over to places like Tonghua or Raohe.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest MRT: Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station (Red Line)
🚕 From Taoyuan Airport: ~35 mins by taxi (~NT$1,200) or Airport MRT + Red Line transfer.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Xinyi
✅ High-end hotels and top-tier shopping
✅ Iconic attractions and business venues
✅ Clean, walkable, and visually stunning
❌ Pricey, especially hotels and dining
❌ Less local character compared to older districts
Songshan – Local Life, Night Markets & Hidden Gems

Where Taipei Slows Down (in the Best Way)
Songshan is where Taipei locals live, work, and eat—lots. Home to the iconic Raohe Night Market and a more relaxed vibe than the city center, it’s a district that blends residential charm with solid access to major attractions. If you want to stay close to the action, but not in the chaos, this is the sweet spot.
Who Should Stay in Songshan?
✔ Food lovers – Raohe Night Market is one of Taipei’s best.
✔ Budget-conscious travelers – Cheaper stays with MRT access.
✔ Families – Quieter streets, parks, and playgrounds nearby.
✔ Second-time visitors – Less touristy, more local flavor.
❌ Luxury travelers – Limited high-end hotel options.
❌ Nightlife seekers – Quieter once the market closes.
Best Hotels in Songshan
- Luxury: Mandarin Oriental Taipei – Technically on the border of Songshan, but close enough. Pure luxury with a spa that’s next level.
- Mid-Range: City Suites – Taipei Nandong – A modern, business-style hotel within walking distance of Raohe.
- Budget: SleepBox Hostel – Sleek, minimalist capsules great for solo travelers who want a quiet stay.
Best Things to Do in Songshan
- Raohe Night Market – One of Taipei’s oldest and most authentic night markets—don’t skip the pepper buns.
- Songshan Cultural and Creative Park – Former tobacco factory turned into an art and design hub.
- Ciyou Temple – Vibrant Mazu temple right by the market, packed with history and incense.
Food & Dining in Songshan
It’s not flashy—it’s flavorful.
- Fuzhou Black Pepper Buns (at Raohe) – Cooked in a tandoor-style oven, crispy outside and juicy inside.
- Beef Noodle Soup at Lao Wang Ji – Hearty, spicy, and satisfying.
- Coffee shops around Songshan Cultural Park – Surprisingly good third-wave brews and chill vibes.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest MRT: Songshan Station (Green Line) – connects easily to Ximen, Taipei Main, and Beimen.
🚈 TRA Station: Also has a train station for easy regional trips.
🚕 From Taoyuan Airport: ~40 mins by taxi (~NT$1,000) or MRT + Green Line transfer.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Songshan
✅ Less touristy, more “local Taipei”
✅ Affordable stays and great street food
✅ Quick access to the rest of the city
❌ Not much nightlife outside the market
❌ Fewer hotel options than Xinyi or Zhongshan
Beitou – Hot Springs, Mountain Views & Chill Vibes

Taipei’s Natural Spa District
Steam rises from the streets in Beitou—literally. Tucked into the foothills just north of the city, this district is known for its natural hot springs, traditional bathhouses, and slower pace. It’s where Taipei locals go to unwind, and where travelers can take a break from the urban buzz without leaving the MRT grid.
Who Should Stay in Beitou?
✔ Couples & honeymooners – Private hot spring tubs and scenic stays.
✔ Wellness travelers – Spa hotels, walking trails, and zen everywhere.
✔ Culture seekers – Japanese-era architecture, thermal valley, and museums.
✔ Nature lovers – Hiking trails and mountain air.
❌ Nightlife fans – Things quiet down early here.
❌ Anyone who wants to be “central” – You’ll be a bit removed from downtown Taipei.
Best Hotels in Beitou
- Luxury: Grand View Resort Beitou – Elegant, modern take on a Japanese ryokan with panoramic views.
- Mid-Range: Aqua Bella Hotel – Comfortable and stylish, with in-room hot springs.
- Budget: On My Way Hostel – Great social vibe for hikers or solo travelers, and just steps from the MRT.
Best Things to Do in Beitou
- Beitou Thermal Valley – Steaming sulfur springs that look like something out of a fantasy film.
- Beitou Hot Spring Museum – Learn about the area’s Japanese-era spa culture.
- Plum Garden – Former home of a famous calligrapher, now a tranquil little museum.
- Yangmingshan National Park – Short taxi ride or bus for serious hiking and hot spring adventures.
Food & Dining in Beitou

The food scene here is simple but satisfying—think comfort food after a long soak.
- Man Lai Hot Spring Ramen – Great spot for a warming bowl post-soak.
- Japanese-style bentos and teahouses – Lots of little places tucked into hillsides.
- Local eats near Beitou Market – Rice rolls, scallion pancakes, and local sweets.
It’s not a foodie district—but it is the perfect place to slow down and enjoy a meal.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest MRT: Xinbeitou Station (Pink Line spur from Beitou Station on Red Line)
🚌 To Yangmingshan: Buses from Beitou or MRT Beitou Station
🚕 From Taoyuan Airport: ~50 mins by taxi (~NT$1,200) or Airport MRT + Red Line transfer.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Beitou
✅ Natural hot springs & mountain air
✅ Quiet, scenic, and totally different vibe
✅ Ideal for wellness or couples trips
❌ Farther from city center (30–40 min MRT ride)
❌ Not much happening after dark
Shilin – Night Market Energy Meets Cultural Icons

Taipei’s Crowd-Pleaser District
Shilin is where Taipei feels big, bold, and bursting with flavor. By day, it’s home to sprawling museums and parks. By night, it transforms into a sensory playground at Shilin Night Market—arguably the most famous in all of Taiwan. It’s touristy, yes—but it earns the hype, especially if you’re traveling with a crew.
Who Should Stay in Shilin?
✔ First-time visitors – Easy access to major sights + that night market experience.
✔ Families – Taipei Children’s Amusement Park, science museums, and lots of open space.
✔ Budget travelers – Plenty of cheap eats and casual hotels.
✔ Cultural explorers – National Palace Museum is right here.
❌ Luxury travelers – Limited upscale hotel options.
❌ Nightlife fans – Other than the market, it’s pretty mellow after dark.
Best Hotels in Shilin
- Mid-Range: Renaissance Taipei Shihlin Hotel – Trendy and modern, just steps from Shilin Night Market. Stylish rooms, rooftop pool, and easy MRT access.
- Budget: Papersun Hotel – Clean, modern, and located just a few minutes from MRT Jiantan.
- Family-Friendly: Star Beauty Hotel – Comfy rooms and close to kid-friendly attractions.
Best Things to Do in Shilin
- Shilin Night Market – Massive, chaotic, and delicious. A must-do for street food lovers.
- National Palace Museum – One of the world’s top Chinese art collections—don’t miss the jade cabbage.
- Taipei Astronomical Museum & Children’s Amusement Park – Perfect for families with kids.
- Taipei Fine Arts Museum – A quieter, modern contrast to the Palace Museum.
Food & Dining in Shilin

This area is street food central. Come hungry.
- Fried chicken steak (豪大大雞排) – Giant, peppery, crispy goodness.
- Oyster omelets, bubble tea, stinky tofu – It’s all here and then some.
- Crispy scallion pancakes at "Zhong Cheng Hao" – A crunchy, buttery must-try.
If you're more into upscale dining, you'll want to hop elsewhere—but for classic Taipei snacks, Shilin delivers.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest MRT: Jiantan Station (Red Line) – Closest to the night market.
🚕 From Taoyuan Airport: ~45 mins by taxi (~NT$1,000) or Airport MRT + Red Line transfer.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Shilin
✅ Epic night market with endless food
✅ Great for families and museum lovers
✅ Close to nature with easy access to Yangmingshan
❌ Not ideal for nightlife beyond eating
❌ Fewer boutique or high-end stays
Wanhua – Old Taipei’s Spirit & Street-Level Grit

Where History Lingers in Every Alley
Wanhua is Taipei’s oldest district—and it shows in the best way. Here, incense curls through the air outside ancient temples, street vendors call out to passersby, and red lanterns light the way down alleyways that haven’t changed in decades. It’s raw, real, and wildly atmospheric. If you want Taipei with edge and soul, this is it.
Who Should Stay in Wanhua?
✔ History & culture buffs – This is old-school Taipei at its most authentic.
✔ Street food lovers – Ximending and night markets serve nonstop eats.
✔ Budget travelers – Tons of hostels and affordable guesthouses.
✔ Young travelers – Ximending is a hub of youth culture and pop style.
❌ Luxury travelers – Very limited upscale accommodations.
❌ Light sleepers – It’s lively, sometimes chaotic, and doesn’t go quiet early.
Best Hotels in Wanhua
- Mid-Range: Just Sleep Ximending – Clean, comfy, and in the heart of the action.
- Budget: Caesar Metro Taipei – Modern stay with a rooftop pool, lively social spaces, and MRT access just steps away.
- Boutique: TW Hostel I – Great social space and super close to MRT.
Best Things to Do in Wanhua
- Longshan Temple – One of Taipei’s oldest temples, rich with carvings and candles.
- Ximending Pedestrian Zone – Taipei’s version of Harajuku/Shibuya—crazy shops, cafés, and energy.
- Heritage walking tours – Old Japanese-era buildings and Qing dynasty streets.
- Red House Theater – Historic building now home to indie shops, cafés, and LGBTQ+ nightlife.
Food & Dining in Wanhua

Food here is fast, fun, and full of flavor.
- Ay Chung Mian Xian (阿宗麵線) – Famous for a reason—slurp it standing up like a local.
- Duck noodles, Taiwanese sausages, bubble tea – Easy to find, hard to stop eating.
- Night markets like Huaxi Street (Snake Alley) – Old school with a hint of the bizarre.
For café culture, Ximending has plenty of quirky themed cafés and Instagrammable spots.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest MRT: Ximen Station (Blue & Green Lines) – Direct access to Taipei Main, Beimen, and Dongmen.
🚕 From Taoyuan Airport: ~40 mins by taxi (~NT$1,000) or Airport MRT + Ximen transfer.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Wanhua
✅ Packed with local history and character
✅ Great food and lively, youthful vibe
✅ Super central and well-connected
❌ Can be noisy and crowded
❌ Very few luxury hotel options
Nangang – Sleek, Smart & Seriously Underrated

Taipei’s Up-and-Coming Innovation Zone
Nangang isn’t flashy, but it’s functional—and full of surprises. Known primarily for its tech parks, convention centers, and transit hubs, it’s also got slick new malls, art spaces, and quiet pockets of green. If you’re visiting Taipei for business, events, or just want to stay somewhere modern and well-connected (without the tourist crowds), Nangang is a solid choice.
Who Should Stay in Nangang?
✔ Business travelers – Right next to Nangang Software Park and Exhibition Center.
✔ Event attendees – Easy access to concerts, trade shows, and conferences.
✔ Train travelers – It’s a major HSR and TRA station hub.
✔ Long-stay or digital nomads – Clean, new builds, and peaceful vibes.
❌ First-time tourists – Not much historical or cultural sightseeing.
❌ Nightlife seekers – It’s more laptops than late nights.
Best Hotels in Nangang
- Luxury: Courtyard by Marriott Taipei – Literally above Nangang Station with unbeatable convenience.
- Mid-Range: The Place Taipei – Stylish, modern, and close to tech parks.
- Budget: Uline Motel – Affordable stay on the Songshan–Nangang border with city views and in-room hot tubs.
Best Things to Do in Nangang
- Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center – Hosting everything from tech expos to pop concerts.
- Academia Sinica – Museums, botanical gardens, and cool research-based exhibits.
- Nangang Bottle Cap Factory Cultural Park – A creative space for art, markets, and live performances.
- Easy hikes – Try Elephant Mountain East Peak Trail nearby for a quieter alternative to the usual.
Food & Dining in Nangang

It’s clean, modern, and mall-heavy—think more food courts than food streets.
- Nangang Station Mall – Has everything from ramen to hotpot and bubble tea.
- Biotech Park food zone – Popular lunch area for local workers.
- Hidden finds – Some traditional noodle shops and small breakfast joints tucked in the older streets.
It’s not a foodie mecca, but you won’t go hungry.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest MRT: Nangang Station (Blue Line), Nangang Exhibition Center Station
🚄 TRA + High-Speed Rail (HSR): Direct services from Nangang to major cities
✈️ From Taoyuan Airport: ~45–55 mins by taxi (~NT$1,000) or Airport MRT to Taipei Main + Blue Line
🚍 Bus terminal: Convenient for east-coast trips and intercity travel
Pros & Cons of Staying in Nangang
✅ Ultra-modern, quiet, and safe
✅ Perfect for business trips or conferences
✅ Great transportation connections (HSR, MRT, buses)
❌ Not much cultural or nightlife appeal
❌ Feels more like a business district than a tourist destination
Tamsui – A Riverside Retreat with Old-World Charm

Taipei’s Relaxing Riverside Getaway
Tamsui offers a delightful contrast to the fast-paced energy of Taipei, with its laid-back vibe, riverside views, and charming historical sites. Once a bustling port during the Qing Dynasty, this area has retained its old-world charm, making it an ideal spot for travelers who want to slow down and experience a quieter side of the city. Whether you're strolling along the Tamsui River, exploring colonial-era buildings, or trying local snacks at the famous Tamsui Old Street, this district gives you a peaceful yet culturally rich experience.
Who Should Stay in Tamsui?
✔ History lovers – Tamsui is rich in colonial-era architecture and historical landmarks.
✔ Couples and families – A romantic or relaxing atmosphere with scenic views.
✔ Photographers – The river views and sunset vistas are perfect for capturing.
✔ Day-trippers – It’s great for a quiet retreat from the city for a few days.
❌ Nightlife seekers – It’s more about relaxing than partying, with quiet nights.
❌ Business travelers – It’s a bit far from Taipei’s business districts.
Best Hotels in Tamsui
- Luxury: The Fisher Hotel – Riverside views, elegant rooms, and perfect for a peaceful retreat.
- Mid-Range: Happiness lnn New Taipei City B&B No. 214 – A comfortable, affordable option with a great location near the Yinshan Temple.
- Budget: Taipei Travelers International Hostel – Cozy, budget-friendly, and near the old street.
Best Things to Do in Tamsui
- Tamsui Old Street – A lively street market with traditional Taiwanese snacks like A-gei (fried tofu) and fish balls.
- Fort San Domingo – A colonial fort with stunning views of the Tamsui River and a peek into the area's history.
- Tamsui Fisherman's Wharf – A beautiful waterfront area perfect for a sunset stroll and photo ops.
- Yangmingshan National Park – Just a short trip from Tamsui, perfect for hiking, hot springs, and nature.
- Tamsui River Promenade – Walk or rent a bike to enjoy riverside views and peaceful vibes.
Food & Dining in Tamsui

Tamsui is famous for its traditional street food and fresh seafood.
- Tamsui Old Street snacks – Try the A-gei and Tamsui fish balls at the local food stalls.
- Seafood restaurants – Fresh fish and prawns are a must, with many riverside spots offering lovely views.
- Sunset cafés – Perfect for sipping coffee while watching the sunset over the river.
Transportation & Accessibility
🚇 Nearest MRT: Tamsui Station (Red Line)
🚕 From Taoyuan Airport: ~50 mins by taxi (~NT$1,200)
🚇 From Taipei Main Station: ~40 mins by MRT (Red Line)
🚲 Cycling: Great area for bike rentals, especially along the riverside promenade.
Pros & Cons of Staying in Tamsui
✅ Relaxing riverside setting with old-world charm
✅ Perfect for sunset views and leisurely walks
✅ Great for history buffs and local food lovers
❌ Not as central for exploring downtown Taipei
❌ Limited shopping and entertainment options compared to other districts
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Taipei is a city where old-world charm meets modern energy. Whether you're a foodie looking to snack your way through Shilin Night Market, a culture buff drawn to the temples of Wanhua, or a trend-hopper exploring the hip cafés of Da’an, Taipei has a neighborhood that fits your travel style perfectly.
Now that you’ve got a feel for the best areas to stay in Taipei, it’s time to choose your ideal home base. 🏨 Book your Taipei hotel early to score the best rates and make your trip smooth and stress-free!
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FAQs About Where to Stay in Taipei
What is the best area to stay in Taipei for first-time visitors?
For first-time visitors, Ximending is a top pick! 🎉 It’s Taipei’s lively youth district, packed with shops, street food, and entertainment. Plus, it’s super central with easy MRT access to iconic spots like Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and Longshan Temple—perfect for getting your bearings in the city.Is it easy to get around Taipei using public transport?
Definitely! 🚇 Taipei has an excellent MRT system that’s clean, efficient, and easy to navigate—even if you don’t speak Chinese. Most major attractions are near MRT stations, and the city also has convenient bus routes and affordable taxis. Grab yourself an EasyCard for smooth travel around the city!Where should I stay in Taipei for luxury?
If you’re after a luxurious escape, consider staying in the Xinyi District. 💎 This is where you’ll find 5-star hotels, upscale malls like Taipei 101, and chic rooftop bars. It’s sleek, modern, and ideal for travelers who love city glam with mountain views.Is Zhongshan a good place to stay in Taipei?
Absolutely! 🛍️ Zhongshan is stylish yet relaxed, with great restaurants, boutique shopping, cozy cafés, and art galleries. It’s also a convenient base for exploring both the city center and more local neighborhoods. Bonus: many mid-range and upscale hotels are located here.What’s a good place to stay for a traditional Taiwanese experience?
Head to Dadaocheng or Wanhua. 🏮 These historic districts offer a more traditional feel, with old shophouses, temples, tea houses, and vintage charm. Staying here gives you a peek into the quieter, more nostalgic side of Taipei, while still keeping you close to modern comforts.