Flights from Manila (MNL) to Taipei (TPE)

About Taipei

Dynamic Taipei, where tradition meets modern city life

Taipei is a vibrant city where gleaming towers, leafy boulevards, and bustling night markets come together in a compact and welcoming metropolis. You will find sleek shopping districts and creative neighbourhoods set against a backdrop of green hills and hot spring valleys. It feels both energetic and relaxed, with plenty of quiet corners when you need a break.

The city is easy to explore, with efficient public transport linking historic streets, contemporary museums, and scenic viewpoints. Whether you are visiting for food, design, or nature, Taipei invites you to slow down, wander on foot, and discover small delights in every lane and alley.

From early-morning breakfast shops to lively late-night markets, Taipei moves at a steady rhythm that rewards curiosity. It is a destination where you can spend one moment admiring skyline views, and the next browsing independent boutiques or enjoying a simple bowl of noodles at a neighbourhood stall.

Top sights in Taipei

Taipei 101

Ride up to the observatory of Taipei 101 for sweeping views of the city and surrounding mountains, then explore the shopping and dining complex below.

Elephant Mountain Trail

Hike the short but steep Elephant Mountain trail for one of Taipei's most iconic skyline views, especially beautiful at sunset and after dark.

Ximending

Stroll through Ximending, a pedestrian district filled with street fashion, pop culture shops, cinemas, and casual eateries.

National Palace Museum

Discover one of the world's finest collections of East Asian art and artefacts at the National Palace Museum, set in leafy, landscaped grounds.

Beitou Hot Springs

Take a short ride out to Beitou to visit its hot springs, scenic parks, and museum, and enjoy a relaxing soak in the thermal waters.

Experience Taipei's culture and city life

A visit to Taipei often begins in its markets and neighbourhood streets. You can join a walking tour to learn how historic districts evolved into creative hubs, or explore on your own through old shophouses, repurposed warehouses, and quiet residential lanes. Along the way, you will encounter tea houses, independent galleries, and small performance spaces that showcase the citys contemporary culture.

Outdoors, Taipei offers more green spaces than you might expect from a major city. Well-marked hiking paths lead to viewpoints and forested ridges just a short metro ride from the centre. Riverside parks invite cyclists and joggers to follow long, scenic paths beside the water, while neighbourhood parks provide a calm spot to sit, read, or people-watch.

You can also join day trips from Taipei to explore nearby towns, coastal scenery, or mountain landscapes. Many routes are easily accessible by train or bus, making it simple to combine urban experiences with nature and fresh air.

A taste of Taipei

Taipei is renowned for its food, from steaming bowls of beef noodle soup to delicate dumplings and street-side snacks. Night markets are a highlight, offering everything from grilled skewers and crispy chicken to desserts, fruit juices, and inventive local treats. It is easy to graze from stall to stall and build a relaxed dinner as you go.

Beyond the markets, you will find neighbourhood eateries specialising in noodle dishes, braised meats, or comforting rice plates. Cafes, bakeries, and dessert shops are also part of daily life in Taipei, with many serving creative drinks and pastries in stylish, thoughtfully designed spaces.

For a slower meal, the city offers a wide range of restaurants, from humble family-run spots to refined venues that focus on seasonal ingredients and precise techniques. Many places stay open late, so you can enjoy a leisurely meal after exploring the city.

Retail therapy in Taipei

Shopping in Taipei ranges from glitzy malls to small independent boutiques. Around Taipei 101 and the Xinyi district, you will find modern shopping centres with international brands, design stores, and comfortable spaces to browse at your own pace. These areas are also home to cinemas, cafes, and plenty of dining options, so you can easily spend a full day there.

For a more local feel, explore neighbourhoods with smaller shops and creative studios. Here you will find fashion from local designers, stationery, lifestyle goods, and homeware that make thoughtful souvenirs. Traditional markets and older shopping streets offer fabrics, accessories, and everyday essentials in a lively atmosphere.

If you enjoy browsing for unique pieces, keep an eye out for pop-up markets and weekend events that showcase handmade goods, crafts, and artwork. Many of these are held in renovated industrial spaces or cultural parks, adding a sense of discovery to your shopping experience.

Best time to visit Taipei

Spring (March to May, shoulder season) brings mild weather and blooming parks, with average temperatures around 18–24°C (64–75°F). It is a pleasant time for city walks, outdoor cafes, and day trips to nearby hills, with fewer extremes of heat or humidity.

Summer (June to September, peak season) is warm and humid, with average temperatures around 27–32°C (81–90°F). Longer daylight hours suit evening strolls, market visits, and indoor attractions, while air-conditioned transport and malls help you stay comfortable between outdoor activities.

Autumn and early winter (October to February, low season) offer cooler, comfortable days, with average temperatures around 15–22°C (59–72°F). Skies can be clearer, making it a good time for hiking and city viewpoints, and the cooler air adds a cosy feel to hot springs and hearty meals.

Frequently Asked Questions