Flights from Seattle (SEA) to Taipei (TPE)

About Taipei

Taipei, where modern energy meets leafy streets

Taipei blends sleek skyscrapers, leafy boulevards, and intimate neighbourhoods into a city that feels both dynamic and welcoming. Towering above it all is Taipei 101, a symbol of the citys growth, surrounded by business districts, gourmet restaurants, and well-loved night markets.

Away from the main avenues, you will find lanes filled with independent cafes, small boutiques, and casual eateries. Parks and riverside paths give you space to slow down, while nearby hills offer quick escapes into nature. Whether you are here for a short break or a longer stay, Taipei is easy to explore and rewarding at your own pace.

Top sights in Taipei

Taipei 101

Ride to the observation decks of Taipei 101 for panoramic city views and explore the surrounding mall for dining and shopping.

National Palace Museum

Discover one of the worlds finest collections of Chinese art and artefacts in a spacious, museum complex set amid green hills.

Ximending

Wander through Ximending, a lively pedestrian district known for its street fashion, entertainment, and late-night buzz.

Maokong Gondola

Take the Maokong Gondola up into the hills for fresh air, tea houses, and wide views over southern Taipei.

Elephant Mountain Trail

Hike the short but steep Elephant Mountain trail to catch classic skyline views, especially striking at sunset and after dark.

Experience Taipei up close

Taipei is a city made for exploring on foot and by metro. You can start in central neighbourhoods such as Zhongzheng and Da an, where wide streets are lined with parks, cafes, and galleries. The citys efficient MRT makes it simple to hop between areas, from riverside promenades to bustling shopping streets, in a single day.

If you enjoy the outdoors, hiking trails are never far away. Routes like Elephant Mountain, Qixing Mountain in Yangmingshan National Park, and riverside cycling paths offer different views of the city and its surrounding landscapes. In the evenings, night markets become social hubs where you can sample local snacks, browse stalls, and soak up the atmosphere.

A taste of Taipei

Taipei is known for its rich food culture, from steaming bowls of beef noodle soup to delicate xiaolongbao dumplings. Many visitors head straight to the night markets, where stalls offer a wide range of quick bites and desserts in a lively setting that stays busy late into the night.

Beyond the markets, you will find everything from simple noodle shops and breakfast cafes to stylish bistros and high-end restaurants. Local tea culture is strong as well, with both modern bubble tea stands on every corner and traditional tea houses in hillside districts such as Maokong. Whatever your tastes, you can eat well at almost any hour of the day.

Retail therapy in Taipei

Shopping in Taipei ranges from contemporary malls to hidden independent boutiques. Around Taipei 101 and the Xinyi district, large malls bring together international brands, lifestyle stores, and extensive dining options under one roof, making it easy to spend a relaxed afternoon indoors.

For a different mood, explore areas like Ximending and the alleys around Zhongxiao Dunhua, where smaller shops showcase local designers, accessories, and homeware. Night markets also play a big role in everyday shopping, with stalls selling clothes, gadgets, and souvenirs alongside food. It is a city where you can pick up both practical items and unique mementos in the same day.

Best time to visit Taipei

Spring season (March to May, shoulder season) brings mild, comfortable weather, with average temperatures around 18–24°C (64–75°F). Occasional showers keep the city green, and clear days are ideal for walking, hiking, and enjoying outdoor cafes and riverside parks.

Summer season (June to September, peak season) is warm and humid, with temperatures typically between 26–32°C (79–90°F). Longer daylight hours suit evening strolls, late-night market visits, and escapes into higher, cooler hillside areas around the city.

Autumn and winter season (October to February, low season) are cooler and often drier, with averages around 15–20°C (59–68°F). The air feels crisp on clear days, making it a pleasant time for city walks, museum visits, and hot meals in cosy restaurants.

Frequently Asked Questions