Old Taipei Travel Guide

Explore the culturally rich and natural attractions of Old Taipei, hike and bike in scenic routes, taste the local cuisine, and learn about local culture and customs in this travel guide.


A Comprehensive Guide to Old Taipei

Nestled in the northeastern corner of Taiwan, Old Taipei is a culturally rich and diverse city that offers modern conveniences and authentic charm. With a history dating back to the 1700s, Old Taipei is known for its historic temples, museums, and outdoor adventures. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the many attractions in the city, share some of the best food and drink options, provide advice on where to stay and what to buy, and offer tips on local culture and customs.

List of Places to Visit in Old Taipei

There are many reasons to visit Old Taipei, from its vibrant cultural scene to the stunning natural beauty. Below are some of the top places to explore:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • National Palace Museum: Explore one of the world’s largest collections of Chinese art and artifacts, including ancient jade carvings and priceless paintings.
  • Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall: This landmark was built to pay homage to former president, Chiang Kai-shek. Visitors can witness the changing of the guards and learn about Taiwan’s modern history.
  • Longshan Temple: Built in the 1700s, this historic temple is known for its ornate roof decorations and intricate carvings.
  • Taipei 101: Once the tallest building in the world, Taipei 101 is a must-visit for the city skyline with unparalleled views from the observation deck.

Natural Attractions of Old Taipei: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Elephant Mountain: Hike up the trail for stunning views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline.
  • Maokong Gondola: Enjoy the scenic ride up to Maokong village and savor a cup of Taiwan’s famous tea in a tea house with a view.
  • Beitou Hot Springs: Relax in one of the many hot spring resorts in Beitou and immerse in the natural beauty of the sulfuric hot springs.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Old Taipei

Old Taipei is home to many scenic and adventurous hikes and bike routes. Some of our favorites include:

  • Yangmingshan National Park: Explore the beautiful volcanic landscape of this national park, which is also home to hot springs and hiking trails.
  • Taipei Riverside Bike Trail: Rent a bike and cycle along the scenic Tamsui River, passing through parks and markets as you go.
  • Xiangshan Hiking Trail: Trek to the top of Xiangshan for a panoramic view of Taipei City.

Best Things to Do in Old Taipei: Activities and Tours

Old Taipei has plenty of activities and tours for visitors to enjoy, from cooking classes to night markets. Some recommendations include:

  • Shilin Night Market: Savor local street food and shop for souvenirs and unique goods, while immersing in the lively atmosphere of the night market.
  • Din Tai Fung dumpling making: Learn how to make traditional Taiwanese dumplings, a must-try dish, from an expert instructor at this famed restaurant.

Week-Long Itinerary for Old Taipei

Those spending a week in Old Taipei can also venture outside the city to explore nearby destinations like Jiufen, Yangmingshan National Park, or hop on the High-Speed Rail to visit the beautiful central and southern regions of Taiwan. Here is a suggested week-long itinerary for those looking to explore Old Taipei:

Day 1: Visit National Palace Museum and Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, both a must-see for history buffs.
Day 2: Explore the many temples around the city, particularly the centuries-old Longshan Temple.
Day 3: Take a day trip out to nearby Yangmingshan National Park, where visitors can enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking and hot springs.
Day 4: Relax in one of the many hot spring resorts in Beitou, which is just a short train ride from Taipei.
Day 5: Take a cooking class to learn how to make traditional Taiwanese dishes like beef noodle soup, and visit a night market to eat and shop.
Day 6: Enjoy the stunning scenery of the Maokong Gondola while sipping on a cup of tea and exploring the tea culture.
Day 7: Visit Taipei 101 and the surrounding Xinyi District for luxury shopping and nightlife experiences.

Food and Drink Scene of Old Taipei

Taiwanese cuisine is renowned for its complex flavors, and Old Taipei offers a diverse menu of traditional and modern fusion dishes. Some of the must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Beef Noodle Soup: A hearty stew of slow-cooked beef and chewy noodles in a savory broth.
  • Pork Belly Buns: Steamed buns filled with tender, melt-in-your-mouth pork belly, pickled veggies, and cilantro.
  • Egg Crepe Roll: A thin egg omelet wrapped around a crispy Chinese cruller with a splash of sweet or spicy sauce.
  • Bubble Tea: The local favorite beverage, made with fresh brewed tea mixed with chewy tapioca balls and served chilled.

Local Beverages

  • Taiwan Beer: A refreshing, light beer, often served with local snacks like fried chicken bites and spicy tofu.
  • Lemon Aiyu Jelly Drink: A refreshing, citrusy drink made with aiyu jelly and lemon.

Where to Stay in Old Taipei: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

For those looking to stay in the city, Old Taipei offers a range of accommodation options to suit any budget. Some recommended places include:

  • Hotel Relax III: This budget-friendly hotel in Taipei’s popular Ximending district is convenient and provides a comfortable stay.
  • Taipei Garden Hotel: A luxury hotel conveniently located near the city’s attractions and transportation hubs.
  • Flip Flop Hostel: A trendy and modern hostel in the lively Ximending neighborhood, offering both dormitory and private room options.

What to Buy in Old Taipei: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Taiwan is known for its unique products and handicrafts, and Old Taipei offers some of the best places to shop. Some popular souvenirs include:

  • Pineapple cakes: Filled with sweet, golden pineapple jam – a popular treat that Taipei is famous for.
  • Taiwanese tea: Take home some of the best high-quality oolong tea or try local tea-infused skincare.
  • Handmade slippers: These comfortable and stylish slippers are handcrafted in Wanhua district by local artisans.

Local Culture and Customs of Old Taipei

Taiwanese culture is a unique blend of traditional Chinese roots and modern influences. Here are some tips to keep in mind while visiting Old Taipei:

  • It is polite to remove your shoes before entering someone’s home, temple, or certain traditional restaurants.
  • Respect elders and those in positions of authority in your interactions.
  • Taiwanese people value punctuality and expect it when scheduling appointments or meetings.

Best Time to Visit Old Taipei

The weather in Taipei tends to be mild year-round, but the best time to visit Old Taipei is during the late fall and early spring when the temperatures are comfortable and the skies are clear. Avoid the rainy season, from June to September.

Do’s and Don’ts of Old Taipei

Here are some basic cultural etiquette tips for visitors to Old Taipei.

Do:

  • Try to use both hands when giving and receiving things, especially when it comes to money.
  • Use phrases like “thank you” (xiè xiè, pronounced “shieh shieh”) and “excuse me” (duì bù qǐ, pronounced “dway boo chee”) when interacting with locals.
  • Carry a small amount of cash for local markets, vendors, and buses as some vendors do not accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  • Wear footwear indoors when visiting someone’s home, particularly temples.
  • Touch other people’s heads or play with children in their hair.
  • Point at people with your index finger, which is considered impolite.

Safety and Health

Taipei is a relatively safe city, but travelers should be aware of common hazards and take necessary precautions.

Safety in Old Taipei

  • Be vigilant while carrying bags and purses in crowded areas.
  • Avoid walking in dark or isolated areas at night.
  • Keep valuables out of sight and use hotel safes to store passports, cash, and other important items.

Health in Old Taipei

  • Taiwan has a robust healthcare system, visitors are advised to purchase travel insurance before visiting.
  • The tap water in Taipei is generally safe to drink but bottled water is widely available.
  • Be mindful of your food choices as some vendors can use contaminated cooking oil which can cause digestive issues for some.

Getting to Old Taipei: Transportation Options and Logistics

Traveling to Old Taipei can be done by various ways of transportation conveniently. Here are some options:

Airports Near Old Taipei

  • Taoyuan International Airport: This is the main airport of Taipei located about 45-minute drive away from the city center.
  • Songshan Airport: Located closer to the city and provides some regional flights and flights to neighboring countries.

Bus Stations Near Old Taipei

  • Taipei Bus Station: Located in the east of Taipei providing intercity bus services to cities around Taiwan.
  • Taipei Main Station: The main transportation hub in the city center, offering connections for train, metro, and bus services.

Other Options

  • High-Speed Rail (HSR): The HSR is an efficient and faster way to travel around the country.
  • Metro Rail System: Taipei’s MRT is a network of rapid transit trains that offer easy and affordable transport around the city.

How to Get Around in Old Taipei

There are many ways to get around Old Taipei, including public transportation and bike rentals. Here are some of the most convenient methods of transportation:

  • Taipei Metro MRT: An affordable and efficient way to explore the city, with trains running every few minutes.
  • City Buses: Buses are convenient and cover many areas that the MRT does not reach.
  • Bike Rentals: Rent a bike and enjoy scenic paths along the river or cycle around some of the city’s historic sites. The city has over 200km of bike paths and is considered one of the bike-friendliest cities in Asia.

Where to Go Next from Old Taipei: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

While Old Taipei itself offers plenty to see and do, some visitors might want to explore more of Taiwan. Here are a few nearby destinations to consider visiting:

  • Jiufen: This small town is about an hour’s train ride from Taipei and is known for its famous tea houses, scenic views, and night markets.
  • Tainan: A city in the south of Taiwan, considered to be the cultural capital of Taiwan and renowned for its rich history, diverse food, and traditional culture.
  • Sun Moon Lake: A stunning body of water located in the central region of Taiwan surrounded by picturesque mountains and lush forests.

Conclusion

Old Taipei is a fascinating city with so many things to see and do, from exploring the culture and history to indulging in delicious food and exploring the natural scenery. With this comprehensive guide of Old Taipei, visitors are sure to have an unforgettable journey to Taiwan.

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