Taipei

Taiwan

Taipei is a vibrant metropolis blending modern skyscrapers with traditional temples and bustling night markets. It offers a rich culinary scene, diverse shopping, and a gateway to Taiwan's beautiful natural landscapes.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay5 days
Budget$30/day
Mid-range$100/day
Luxury$500/day

Known For

Taipei CityNew TaipeiTaiwanEast AsiaAsia

🇹🇼 Country Information: Taiwan

CapitalTaipei
CurrencyNew Taiwan dollar ($)
Language Mandarin Chinese , Taiwanese Hokkien, Hakka, various indigenous languages
Phone Code+886
Electricity110V (Type A, B)
Tap WaterSafe to drink

Tipping

  • Tipping is generally not expected in Taiwan as a service charge (usually 10%) is often included in restaurant bills
  • For taxis, tipping is not customary
  • For hotel staff, a small tip for exceptional service is appreciated but not mandatory
  • Tour guides might appreciate a tip, but it's not a strong norm

Money & Payments

  • ATMs are widely available, especially in urban areas
  • Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and larger establishments, but cash is preferred in smaller local shops and markets
  • It's advisable to bring some cash for smaller transactions and local markets
  • There is no black market for cash

Cultural Norms

  • Politeness and respect for elders are highly valued
  • Removing shoes before entering someone's home or certain temples is customary
  • Public displays of affection are generally not common
  • It is considered impolite to stick chopsticks upright in a bowl of rice as it resembles incense offered at funerals
  • Eating and drinking on public transport is generally prohibited

LGBTQ+ Information

Generally LGBTQ+ friendly. Taiwan is considered one of the most LGBTQ+-friendly places in Asia, with same-sex marriage legalized in 2019.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

  • The legal drinking age is 18
  • Drug laws are strict, with severe penalties for possession, use, and trafficking of illegal drugs

Special Laws

  • Jaywalking is strictly enforced and can result in fines
  • Chewing gum is generally allowed, but littering it is subject to fines
  • Smoking is prohibited in many public indoor places and some outdoor areas
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  • cigarettes and heated tobacco products are banned
  • Taking photos of military facilities or sensitive government buildings is prohibited

Common Phrases

NoBù (boo) 不
YesShì (sher) 是
HelloNǐ hǎo (nee-how) 你好
PleaseQǐng (ching) 請
Thank youXièxiè (shyeh-shyeh) 謝謝
Excuse me/SorryDuìbùqǐ (dway-boo-chee) 對不起

Climate

Taipei generally has a humid subtropical climate, influenced by monsoons.

Climate Zone: Humid Subtropical

Best Time to Visit

Getting There

Getting Around

Health & Vaccinations

Staying Connected

Local Cuisine

Beef Noodle Soup (Niu Rou Mian, 牛肉麵) must_try

Considered the national dish of Taiwan, this staple features tender chunks of red-braised beef slow-cooked in a rich, flavorful broth, served over whe

Bubble Tea (Boba Milk Tea, 珍珠奶茶) non_alcoholic_beverage

Taiwan's most famous drink, it is a blend of tea and milk, often sweetened, with chewy tapioca pearls (boba) at the bottom. This iconic beverage origi

Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings, 小籠包) must_try

These delicate steamed dumplings are typically filled with juicy minced pork and a rich, hot broth that is contained within the wrapper. They are best

Braised Pork Rice (Lu Rou Fan, 滷肉飯) regional_speciality

One of Taiwan's most beloved comfort foods, this simple yet satisfying dish consists of minced pork belly stir-fried and slow-cooked in soy sauce unti

Gua Bao (Taiwanese Pork Belly Bun, 割包) street_food

Often dubbed the 'Taiwanese hamburger,' this popular street food consists of a fluffy steamed bun (baozi) stuffed with tender braised pork belly, pick

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) Tickets Transport
Book up to 29 days in advance

Tickets, especially for popular routes and peak travel times (weekends, holidays, long weekends), can sell out or require less desirable seats/times.

Din Tai Fung (Original or Popular Branches) Dining
Book 2–4 weeks in advance

Din Tai Fung is globally famous, and waits for walk-ins at popular locations (especially the original Xinyi location) can be hours long.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Taipei 101 Observatory Deck Timed Entry Ticket Attraction
Book 1 week to 1 month in advance

To secure preferred entry times, especially sunset slots, and skip long queues for on-site ticket purchases.

Day Trip to Jiufen, Shifen, and Yehliu Guided Tour tour_or_activity
Book 1–3 weeks in advance

Group tours often fill up, especially those combining these popular northern Taiwan destinations on weekends or during high season.

Fun Facts

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