Taipei is many things but boring isn’t one of them. Whilst Taipei 101 dominates the skyline and most people’s minds, Taiwan’s capital is about much more than the unmistakable design of its iconic landmark. Intriguing blend of the old and new, Taipei is one of the most livable cities in Asia, rich in history and culture and with thriving foodie scene.

Having recently come back to spend a week here, I not only had a chance to see more of this vibrant city but also to experience different side to it, with Frankie calling the ‘baby-friendliness’ shots. Here is the ultimate guide to Taipei to take the pain away from your planning.

You might also want to read specifically about travelling Taiwan with a baby

Money

Taiwan overall might have a thriving cash-based economy, but Taipei is well connected to the electronic payments world. Taxis, markets and traditional small stores still mainly take Taiwanese dollars in cash, but modern restaurants, stores and coffee shops all accept credit cards. ATMs are also aplenty. Like Hong Kong, London and other cities, you can also pay for small purchases in convenience stores and public transport by rechargeable EasyCard or iPass.

Transport

Public transport in Taipei is very developed and efficient, making it the best way to get around the city and suburbs. The seven-line metro system and city buses servicing over 300 bus routes are by far the fastest and most convenient way to traverse the city. You can also borrow a bike from one of the 180 stations, catch a taxi, or if you are in the hilly Maokong region jump on a gondola. And when you are done with Taipei and feel like seeing more of Taiwan, long distance buses, railway and high speed rail are all available. I found using the Klook app perfect way to book tickets and save quite a bit of money in the process.

EasyCard / iPass

EasyCard and iPass can be purchased from any convenience store like 7eleven for 100NTD refundable deposit. You can also top them up there and use them on metro, buses, making small purchases and also to lease a bike from one of the public stations. Several discounts are available when using EasyCard on public transport and you will also be entitled to 30 minutes free ride on public bicycles. Both iPass and EasyCard can also be used in other cities around Taipei like Taichung.

SIM and data

You can either pre-order SIM card to be waiting for you once you arrive at the airport, or if you are as organised as me, just pop into any telecom provider in the city and pick the best package. For 10 days and unlimited data I paid 500NTD from one of the high street providers and it worked everywhere I went in Taiwan. All you need is passport, money and ten minutes of your time. I only found out after I bought the SIM that you can also get discounted packages on Klook including airport pick-up option. Something for next time we’re there.

Where to stay

Courtesy of excellent public transport, as long as you are next to a metro station, any part of Taipei will do. But if you want to be close to specific points of interest, the following areas might be your preferred option. I stayed in Zhongshan and Zhongzheng, where Zhongzheng is close to not only Taipei Main station with excellent transport connections and shopping, but also many of the must-see sights like Liberty Square, 228 Peace Park, Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall and the famous NanJiChang Night Market. Zhongshan on the other hand has slightly more cosmopolitan feel, with wide range of accommodation options reaching out to the luxury, plenty of restaurants, shopping and still decent value for money.

Taking it up a notch to the ultra modern part of the city, Xinyi districts is close to the iconic Taipei 101, several new modern architecture additions, best shopping and restaurants and plenty of luxury accommodation. Xinyi is in contrast to the vibrant and buzzing hub of Ximending, which you might prefer if you are into tantalising foodie scene, insomniac nightlife, cosy dive bars and west to east shopping. And if you are looking for somewhere green and quiet, try the ‘lungs of Taipei’ area of Da’an. Although the choice of accommodation here is still quite limited, this in my books just adds to the charm of the area.

Top things to do in Taipei

True to its capital city title, Taipei really has it all. If you are looking to immerse in the vibrant Taiwanese culture or want to indulge in western conveniences, stretch your legs hiking or dress up for a night out, indulge in some shopping or binge on historical sights, pop into an art gallery or sample delicious street-food, Taipei is your city. Here are the top ten unmissable things you need to do in Taipei.

1. Hike the Elephant Trail to catch some views

Views of Taipei from Taipei 101 are great but, well…. you are not getting Taipei 101 aka the crown jewel of Taipei’s skyline in it. Getting away from the bustle of the city and soaking up the views along the way up the Elephant Mountain is one of the best things to do in Taipei. Get off the Xiangshan station and walk 5-10mins to the beginning of the Xiangshan trail. From there it’s 20 minutes to the top with couple of viewing platforms along the way to take in the unmissable vistas.

2. Visit couple of temples

Lift the lid off Taiwan’s intricate decorative temple art and architecture, learning about the hundreds of traditional folk Gods worshipped in the temple halls. The Longshan, Bao’an and Confucius temple are some of the most famous examples you must visit when in Taipei, although walking along the city streets you will give you plenty of other opportunities to sneak a peak at Taipei’s one of many ornate religious sites.

3. Take a stroll in the Peace Park

When in a city, I like to take a stroll through its parks and spots of greenery, taking a break from the buzz of congested streets. Taipei’s 228 Peace Park is not only a nice refuge from the busy streets but also an important historical area. Commemorating the victims of anti-governmental uprising of 1947, the park is dotted with several memorials in traditional Chinese and modern architecture reminding us of the country’s turbulent past.

4. Eat delicious Shanghai-style dumplings

If you are partial to dumplings like me, Din Tai Fung is a must do when in Taipei. Once called one of the 10 best restaurants in the World by New York Times, Din Tai Fung is the original legendary Shanghai-style dumplings eatery. Several other branches now opened up around Taipei, each with an impressive queue as a testament to its delicious merchandise.

5. Scale the iconic Taipei 101

Once the World’s tallest building, Taipei 101 is a worthy contender for spot on your Taipei itinerary.  Designed to resemble stacked up Chinese takeaway boxes, the views from the 89^th and 91^st floor observation decks are a cherry on the top after a ride in World’s fastest elevator. And for those geeks amongst us, check out the massive 720-tons stabiliser ball making this lady earthquake-proof.

6. Soak up Taiwan’s history in museums

Like any big city, Taipei has some must visit museums. Make sure to pop into the eye-opening National Human Rights Museum, marvelling at Taiwan’s journey from an authoritarian system to today’s democracy. The National Palace Museum, National 2-28 Memorial Museum and Beitou Hot Spring Museum are some examples of Taipei’s rich museum scene that will give you an invaluable insight into the country’s multifaceted history and culture.

7. Admire Chiang-Kai Shek Memorial Hall

One of the most instagrammable places in Taipei, the white octagonal Chiang-Kai Shek Memorial Hall was erected to commemorate Taiwans president Chiang Kai Shek. The 8 sides of the building are reflecting the lucky number 8 in Chinese culture. Set at the far end of the massive Liberty Square, other sites here include a picturesque multi-arched white gate marking the square’s entrance, and the imposing Concert Hall built in traditional Chinese style. Come early to beat the crowds and witness the daily flag rising.

8. See some exhibitions and performances at the Creative Park

Many industrial sites around Taiwan have been transformed into creative spaces housing performances, temporary or permanent exhibitions and pop-up shops. Taipei’s Huashan 1915 Creative Park is no exception. Former warehouses have been transformed into music performance venues, as well as exhibition spaces and chic bars, cafes and restaurants. This is a great place to visit with children with many exhibitions targeting their young curious minds.

9. Sample street food at night markets

Taiwan’s street food is legendary and where better to try it than at street markets. Whilst the Shilin Night Market is the one on most people’s list, head to more local affairs like the Tonghua market to get a different perspective, lesser crowds and even better prices. The variety is appetising, and the quality is excellent in most places you will go plus the price point is more than appealing, especially if you are keeping an eye on the budget.

10. Enjoy cup of tea at Maokong’s Yaoyue Teahouse

If you want a break from the busy city vibes, head to Maokong. Taking a gondola up the mountain, enjoy the views whilst working up an appetite for some dim sum and traditional Chinese dishes with splash of delicious tea. Set in a valley with outdoors seating sporting some spectacular views, the Yaoyue Teahouse is the only teahouse you want to visit when in the area. Sit back and enjoy the relaxing greenery with some tasty nosh.

Unlike its tourism favourites neighbours Japan and Hong Kong, Taiwan is an underrated gem of East Asia. Not only is it one of the best countries to travel with children, but its appealingly diverse natural landscape including hot springs, vibrant culture, convenient infrastructure, turbulent history and appetising foodie scene make it the perfect break with something for everyone. And where else to start exploring the country than in Taipei. I hope this Taipei guide helped to get you a step closer to your perfect trip to Taiwan and if you have any thoughts or questions, just drop me a comment below and I will get back to you.

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