Where to stay in Taipei first time 2024 - 8 best areas
In this article, we dive deeper into your question about where to stay in Taipei first time.
To make it as simple as possible for you as a reader, we start with an overview of all the recommended areas we cover followed by a short description.
Then, we briefly answer a few commonly asked questions:
Where to stay in Taipei first time?
Where to stay in Taipei with family?
Where to stay in Taipei for nightlife?
Where to stay in Taipei for food?
You can always tap on a purple link to go directly to that part of the article.
This will save you a lot of time and only read what you need to read.
Enjoy!
Overview of the best areas to stay in Taipei
| Name of the area in Taipei | Description of the recommended area |
|---|---|
1. Ximending (Wanhua District)* Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This area is also known as the “Harajuku of Taipei”, and is an exciting and lively district with plenty of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. The area is located centrally and is one of the most desired areas in the city among tourists. It’s an amazing area for sightseeing, shopping, street food, and nightlife. What makes it so good? Plenty of things to do, great nightlife and street food scene, convenient location. *You can click on the purple and blue links to directly navigate to that part of the article to read in-depth information about that specific area. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | As the name already suggests, this central location provides excellent access to public transportation, including the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) system, making it super easy for you to explore the city. There are several attractions nearby, the major advantage is the perfect access to several public transportation lines. What makes it so good? Ideal to explore every corner, every highlight, and beyond of the city by public transport. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This area is known for its upscale shopping, dining, and entertainment options. It’s a more relaxed and stylish district, with attractions like the Miramar Entertainment Park and the Fine Arts Museum nearby. Especially those who like to travel in comfort will highly appreciate this area. What makes it so good? Upscale area with great access to public transport, and plenty of entertainment options. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | Home to Taipei’s most famous shopping street, Zhongxiao Road, Da’an is a trendy and upscale area with fashionable boutiques, cafes, and restaurants. It’s also close to Da’an Forest Park, a great place for relaxation. There is a convenient metro line running through this district that takes you to several highlights. If you like comfort and a bit of a laid-back atmosphere, this district is the right option for you. What makes it so good? Great area for those who seek an upscale experience in a laid-back environment. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This is a central area where you can find the famous Raohe Street Night Market as well as the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park. You have great access to public transport with several metro lines nearby. It offers a more authentic experience compared to the previously four recommended areas but keep in mind that there isn’t much nightlife to find here. What makes it so good? A more authentic part of Taipei that doesn’t feel tourist-orientated. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | If you enjoy hot springs and a laid-back, tranquil atmosphere, Beitou is a great choice. The area is famous for its natural hot springs, and there are public baths as well as private resorts. Keep in mind that you are located outside the city centre, but there is a metro line that connects this part of Taipei to the heart of the city. What makes it so good? Ultimate relaxation at hot springs surrounded by beautiful nature. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This area is home to the popular Shilin Night Market where you can find an abundance of street food. You can also find the National Palace Museum here. You have access to outdoor activities and it’s a relatively quiet area without much nightlife. Ideal for families, but you are located just a tiny bit outside the tourist epicenter. What makes it so good? Great area for families where you can combine outdoor activities and night markets in a culturally rich area. |
Go directly to this part of the article for more in-depth information. ↓ | This is the historical part of the city where you can find traditional architecture and culture. You can find some unique accommodations here. But most tourists tend to stay in Ximanding, which is close by, as that popular tourist area comes with all sorts of modern amenities. Nonetheless, if you’re looking for a unique, boutique hotel, it’s worth considering staying here. What makes it so good? You’re located in the historical heart of the city. |
Where to stay in Taipei first time
The best areas to stay in Taipei first time are Ximending, Taipei Main Station and Zhongshan District.
Ximending is by far the most popular area for tourists, simply because it’s so convenient and full of things to do.
Taipei Main Station is an ideal area when you want to take advantage of Taipei’s trains but is also an area far from boring.
Zhongshan District is an upscale area with a more relaxing vibe but comes with great public transport access and entertainment options.
These three are, in my opinion, the most ideal areas, but there are quite some alternatives.
Da’an District is another upscale area that comes with green spaces.
Songshan District is a good area for those seeking a not-so-heavily tourist-orientated area.
Beitou District is located outside the city center and is home to the natural springs and is an ideal area for those looking for outdoor activities.
Shilin District is a great area for families where you can find night markets, street food, and museums, and is considered a quiet area.
Wanhua District is the historical district of Taipei and is steeped in traditional Taiwanese culture and architecture.
Where to stay in Taipei with family
The best areas to stay in Taipei with family are Ximending, Taipei Main Station, Da’an District, and Shilin District.
When it comes to convenience, Ximending and Taipei Main Station are the most ideal areas. They are located centrally and have perfect access to public transport. However, these two areas also have a proper nightlife scene, which is not always ideal for families.
Da’an District is an upscale area with a large park. It’s great for those who want to stay centrally with access to a family-friendly park.
Shilin District isn’t located as centrally as the other areas but comes with several family-friendly features, including outdoor activities, a famous night market, and the National Palace Museum. All while being in a relatively quiet area without any nightlife scene.
Where to stay in Taipei for nightlife
The best areas to stay in Taipei for nightlife are Ximending, Taipei Main Station, Zhongshan District, and Da’an District.
Ximending is a hub for nightlife with plenty of bars, clubs, and karaoke joints and it attracts many young people all over the city.
Taipei Main Station has many similarities with Ximending, except that the nightlife scene is simply a bit smaller.
For a more sophisticated experience, Zhongshan District and Da’an District are the best options where you can find stylish lounges, rooftop bars, pubs, and international-themed nightclubs. These two areas are upscale nightlife areas.
Where to stay in Taipei for food
The best areas to stay in Taipei for food are Ximending, Songshan District, and Shilin District.
Now, food can be found everywhere in the city.
But as a tourist, you want to pick an area where you can combine (street) food with a convenient location.
Ximending is the most popular option for tourists in general and the area offers plenty of street food and local eateries. There is an abundance of local delicacies.
Songshan District and Shilin District are both known for their famous night markets.
Night markets in Taipei are by far the best areas to find the most delicious street food and snacks. Besides, both areas have great access to public transport so that you can easily explore other parts of the city as well.
1. Ximending (Wanhua District)
There are several reasons why Ximending is such a popular part of the city and why it’s often dubbed the best area to stay in Taipei.
Because of its vibrant and youthful atmosphere, Ximending is often referred to as the “Harajuku of Taipei”.
There are so many things to do and there is a certain energy that none of the other areas can compete against.
First of all, Ximending is a true shopping haven with a huge variety of shops boutiques, and department stores.
Secondly, the area is an incredible food lovers’ paradise ranging from street food and traditional Taiwanese snacks to internationally orientated restaurants.
Then there is the nightlife scene.
Once the sun has set, many people come to Ximending for its bars, clubs, and karaoke joints and it’s a great area for tourists to explore Taipei’s lively nightlife scene.
Lastly, Ximending also has historical significance. The Red House, built in 1908, is a prominent landmark that adds a touch of history to the district.
Although other areas offer far more historical significance.
Most importantly, in a huge city like Taipei, you are located centrally and the area is well connected to Taipei’s MRT System.
Visiting the other highlights is a piece of cake when you pick a hotel near one of the many metro stations.
When you combine all of this, you understand that for most tourists, this is the ideal place.
Now, let us get into the few drawbacks of this area first, which might lead to some reconsideration.
First of all, it’s an incredibly touristy area and it lacks authenticity compared to several other areas.
Secondly, it gets extremely crowded, especially during the weekends.
Lastly, prices here are higher compared to other areas, even though this area is not per se an upscale area.
If you travel on a budget or simply want more value for your bucks, there are more suitable areas that we recommend further down this article.
But let’s be honest, for the majority of tourists, it’s hard to beat Ximending because it offers entertainment, shopping options, a great food scene, and great access to Taipei’s public transportation.
It’s simply an amazing base to explore the city and come back in the evening after a day full of sightseeing and have plenty of fun things to do right at your doorstep.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Taipei first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
2. Taipei Main Station Area
As the name already suggests, Taipei Main Station is a major transportation hub.
The station integrates the Taipei MRT (Mass Rapid Transit), Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR), and regular train services.
This central location makes it incredibly easy for tourists to navigate the city and even travel to other parts of Taiwan efficiently.
But this area has more to offer than its connectivity alone.
Taipei Main Station is also located near several landmark buildings and attractions, including the iconic Taipei 101.
The station is connected to various shopping malls and department stores, such as Q Square and Taipei City Mall.
Around the station, you can find plenty of restaurants and especially food courts.
These food courts are a great way to discover Taiwanese dishes for a bargain.
Surprisingly, the district around Taipei Main Station comes alive at night.
A nightlife area near a major station is quite unusual, but in Taipei, you can find many nightlife venues as well as several night markets.
When it comes to accommodation options, there is a good variety in all budget classes, making Taipei Main Station a budget-friendly area too.
What’s not to like?
First of all, it lacks authenticity as this area is designed to be a transportation hub.
That brings us to the second disadvantage. It gets extremely crowded during the day as so many people use Taipei’s public transportation.
However, the advantage of easily traveling around the city is something none of the other areas can compete against and the area itself offers plenty of entertaining options during the day and night.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Taipei first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
3. Zhongshan District
So far, the recommended areas offer a combination of convenience and entertainment.
Zhongshan is no different, however, it caters to those seeking an upscale experience.
Especially around the trendy Zhongxiao Road, you can find a really sophisticated atmosphere with loads of upscale shopping and dining options and modern amenities.
You can also find a proper nightlife scene here as well, and again, it all feels more sophisticated than elsewhere in the city.
The whole district is modern and well-developed and you can find all sorts of modern hotels, spas, and wellness centers here, ideal for those seeking a more luxurious stay.
Many of these hotels offer impressive views of the Taipei cityscape, especially if you choose accommodation in the vicinity of the Taipei 101 building.
This district is located near Taipei Songshan Airport and automatically, it’s well-connected to public transport.
As you can expect from an upscale area, this doesn’t come cheap.
Many of the top brands in the hotel industry offer accommodations here.
If your budget allows it, it’s hard to beat a comfortable area like Zhongshan.
But if you travel on a (strict) budget, then this area is not for you.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Taipei first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
4. Da'an District
Da’an District is a trendy district near Taipei 101 right in the middle of the city.
When choosing this area, you’re also located near Zhongxiao Road, a major shopping and entertainment street in Taipei.
One of the largest parks in Taipei, Da’an Forest Park is also located in his district and it provides a welcome, green oasis in the heart of the city.
Here, you can enjoy walking and biking trails, ponds, and open spaces.
The area itself is incredibly modern and similar to the previously recommended area, it’s an ideal area for those seeking a luxurious stay.
The major difference is that Zhongshan feels more exclusive and secluded, but both areas are excellent options for those who have higher demands than regular tourists, while Da’an District is located more centrally
The Da’an District is known for its culinary diversity.
Yes, you can find local street foods, but mostly, the international restaurants are what attract many visitors to this part of the city.
Another cool feature is that Da’an is known for its street art, quirky cafes, and unique spaces.
Walking around this district and finding hidden gems is something we highly recommend you do.
Most importantly, Da’an is well-connected to the Taipei MRT system with direct access to two important lines that take you to most of the city’s highlights.
The big difference with other central parts of Taipei, such as the incredibly popular Ximending is simply the upscaleness.
Ximending is far more accessible for most tourists while Da’an is only a sensible option when you have a larger budget.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Taipei first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
5. Songshan District
So far, the recommended areas are mostly modern and well-developed parts of the city.
Songshan offers more historical charm than the others while still being modern.
The major advantage of staying in Songshan is having direct access to Raohe Street Night Market.
This is one of Taipei’s most famous night markets and here, you can find an abundance of street food.
Those who love to eat like a local should most definitely consider staying here.
You can also find the Ciyou temple here, which is a beautifully decorated temple with intricate carvings and a significant cultural and religious site worth visiting.
The district also offers excellent views of the Taipei 101 skyscraper.
Some accommodations in Songshan, especially those along the riverside, provide picturesque views of the city skyline.
Overall, Songshan retains a local neighborhood feel and is not as heavily tourist-oriented as some other districts.
It offers a far more authentic experience while having good access to public transport, street food, and a few historical sites.
Just keep in mind that there is far less nightlife compared to the previously recommended areas.
Also, you’re located further away from the major attractions, although a short metro ride will take you to these places.
Other than that, it’s a perfect alternative to the touristy areas and it’s easily possible to find something that fits your budget as it offers accommodations in every single budget class.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Taipei first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
6. Beitou District
Beitou is a district that’s located far away from the major attractions of Taipei.
But it’s an area known for its natural hot springs, beautiful landscapes, and relaxing atmosphere.
You can find public baths, private resorts, and hotels with hot spring facilities.
The Thermal Valley which is located here as well, is a geothermal area with hot springs and sulfurous steam vents.
While swimming is not allowed in this area, it’s a fascinating natural attraction, and you can observe the steam rising from the hot springs.
Beitou is close to Yangmingshan National Park, a beautiful and scenic area known for its volcanic landscapes, hiking trails, and cherry blossoms (seasonal).
The area has a historical connection to the Japanese era in Taiwan, and this influence is reflected in the architecture and cultural elements.
The district features several well-preserved Japanese-style buildings and structures.
Beitou is accessible via the Taipei MRT system.
The MRT journey to Beitou also provides scenic views of the city and mountains.
So, if you want to combine relaxation with sightseeing, consider staying in Beitou.
Of course, you can also stay in the city center and plan a day trip to Beitou for some relaxation, but the scenery that Beitou offers is hard to beat.
The downside of course is the lack of entertainment in Beitou.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Taipei first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
7. Shilin District
One of Taipei’s most famous night markets, Shilin Night Market, is one of the main reasons why this area is a popular spot for both locals and tourists.
For those who don’t know this yet, Taipei is famously known for its night markets, and it’s the ideal place to discover and devour insanely delicious street food.
But it’s not only at the Shilin Night Market that you can find tasty street food.
The whole area is known for its local eateries and street food stalls and therefore a (street) foodie’s heaven.
Shilin is located close to Yangmingshan National Park, a scenic area with volcanic landscapes, hot springs, hiking trails, and beautiful flora.
It’s a great destination for nature lovers and those seeking outdoor activities.
Especially families will appreciate a stay in this part of Taipei.
You can also find the National Palace Museum here, which is one of the most important cultural institutions in Taiwan.
The museum houses an extensive collection of Chinese art and artifacts, including rare treasures and historical items.
The Shilin Official Residence, which was the former residence of Chiang Kai-shek and now serves as a cultural and historical site, is also located in this district.
There is one metro line running through this part of Taipei, namely the Tamsui-Xinyi Line.
This line takes you to the hot springs as well as to the city center.
We highly recommend you stay as close as possible to this metro line.
Keep in mind that the night market attracts a lot of crowds.
Also, you’re located not directly in the city center, so you always have to travel a bit by metro when you want to visit the major attractions.
There is not much nightlife and it’s definitely not a luxurious area.
Combining all of this, you understand why especially families tend to stay in this part of the city.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Taipei first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.
8. Wanhua District
Wanhua is the historical district of the city.
Usually, when you visit a city, the historical parts are often the best options for tourists as you’re located so close to the major attractions.
While it’s still a recommendable area, Taipei’s modern and well-developed areas offer so much convenience, that you don’t need to stay so close to the major attractions.
Besides, the metro takes you to each and every major attraction anyway.
But, Wanhua is still a great option for several reasons.
The area itself has completely preserved traditional Taiwanese culture and architecture.
You can find the Longshan Temple, a significant religious and cultural site with a history dating back to the Qing Dynasty.
The area is home to the Huaxi Street Night Market, often referred to as Snake Alley. It’s a vibrant night market with a mix of street food stalls, shops, and traditional Chinese medicine stores.
Bopiliao is a well-preserved historic block in Wanhua, showcasing traditional architecture and providing a look into the district’s past.
Dihua Street, which is known for its well-preserved architecture and traditional shops, is also a unique part of Wanhua.
Dihua Street is particularly lively during festive seasons like Chinese New Year.
Another noteworthy temple in Wanhua is the Qingshan Temple, dedicated to the worship of Guanyin, the Buddhist bodhisattva of compassion.
All of this is right at your doorstep.
Also, you’re located near Ximending, the most popular district among tourists in Taipei and a short ride with the metro takes you there where you can enjoy all the modernity and convenience.
If you’re a culture and history enthusiast, Wanhua is a great option.
The only thing is that many tourists tend to stay in Ximanding instead as it’s close to Wanhua and does offer modern amenities.
But, you can find some unique accommodations in the historical parts of Taipei that none of the other areas can compete against.
Some of the best hotels to stay in Taipei first time in this particular area are listed below:
Agoda is part of Booking.com, and is the best option for booking a hotel in Asia. They often offer significantly cheaper options compared to their competitors, including Booking.com. You’ll get the same service that you are used to at Booking.com, but you simply pay less.