
My Unforgettable Trip to Taipei: A Personal Journey Through the Heart of Taiwan
When I first decided to visit Taipei, I had no idea how much this vibrant city would captivate me. From its towering skyscrapers to its rich cultural heritage, Taipei is a city that seamlessly blends the old and the new.
Over the course of my trip, I explored iconic landmarks, indulged in delicious food, and immersed myself in the local culture. Here’s a detailed account of my adventure, complete with tips, recommendations, and links to help you plan your own Taipei getaway!
Day 1: Arrival and First Impressions
I arrived in Taipei after a long flight, exhausted but excited. I checked into the CityInn Hotel Plus Ximending, Book here, a cozy and affordable hotel located in the heart of Ximending, Taipei’s bustling shopping and entertainment district. The hotel was clean, modern, and perfectly situated for exploring the city. After dropping off my bags, I headed out to explore Ximending.
Ximending is a sensory overload in the best way possible. Neon lights, street performers, and endless shops filled with trendy fashion and quirky souvenirs—it’s a shopper’s paradise! I grabbed a bubble tea (a must-try in Taiwan) and wandered through the lively streets, soaking in the energy of this vibrant neighborhood.
For dinner, I stumbled upon a small street food stall and tried stinky tofu for the first time. Let’s just say it’s an acquired taste, but I’m glad I gave it a shot!

Day 2: Elephant Mountain and Taipei 101
I started my second day with a hike up Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan). This short but steep trail offers one of the best views of the Taipei skyline, including the iconic Taipei 101. The hike took about 20 minutes, and the panoramic view at the top was absolutely worth it. Pro tip: Go early in the morning to avoid the crowds and the heat!
After descending, I made my way to Taipei 101, once the tallest building in the world. I booked a ticket to the observation deck Book here and was blown away by the breathtaking views of the city. The building itself is an architectural marvel, and I spent some time exploring the luxury shopping mall at its base.


Day 3: Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and National Palace Museum
Day three was all about history and culture. I visited the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a grand monument dedicated to the former leader of Taiwan. The massive white structure, surrounded by beautiful gardens and a reflecting pond, was awe-inspiring. I also caught the changing of the guard ceremony, which was a highlight of my visit.
Next, I headed to the National Palace Museum Book tickets here, home to one of the largest collections of Chinese art and artifacts in the world. The museum’s exhibits were fascinating, and I particularly loved the intricate jade carvings and ancient calligraphy.

Day 4: Taipei Zoo and Panda Bears
As an animal lover, I couldn’t miss the chance to visit the Taipei Zoo Book tickets here. The zoo is massive and well-maintained, with a wide variety of animals. The highlight, of course, was seeing the adorable panda bears. Watching them munch on bamboo was pure joy!
After the zoo, I took the Maokong Gondola Book here for a scenic ride up to Maokong, a mountain area known for its tea plantations. I enjoyed a relaxing cup of locally grown tea while taking in the stunning views of the city below.




Day 5: Shopping and Nightlife in Ximending
On my final day, I returned to Ximending for some last-minute shopping and to experience the nightlife. I picked up souvenirs, trendy clothes, and even some Taiwanese skincare products. As the sun set, the area transformed into a lively hub of bars, clubs, and street food vendors. I ended my trip with a visit to a karaoke bar, where I sang my heart out with newfound friends.

Where I Stayed: Affordable Hotels in Taipei
During my trip, I stayed at two affordable yet comfortable hotels:
CityInn Hotel Plus Ximending Book here – Perfect for exploring Ximending and central Taipei.
Hotel Midtown Richardson Book here – A stylish and budget-friendly option near Taipei Main Station.
Final Thoughts
My trip to Taipei was nothing short of magical. From the stunning views at Elephant Mountain to the cultural treasures at the National Palace Museum, every moment was unforgettable. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, Taipei has something for everyone.
If you’re planning a trip to Taipei, I highly recommend booking your tickets and tours through the affiliate links I’ve shared. Not only will you save time, but you’ll also get the best deals!
Have you been to Taipei? What was your favorite part of the city? Let me know in the comments below!
Are you as enthousiats as me about taipai then book your ticket cheap here.
Affiliate Disclosure: This blog post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. This helps support the blog and allows me to continue sharing my travel experiences with you. Thank you for your support!


Hello! I’m Roy Hermans, a Dutch adventurer exploring the world as much as I can. Based in the Netherlands, I share all my travel experiences and adventures along the way.
Feel free to follow me, drop a comment, or reach out via email for more details or travel tips!
Keep traveling!



Eindhoven, A Serene 4K Walking Tour Through Blooming Streets & Scenic Beauty

Inside Bangkok’s Secret Artist House

My Hoog Catharijne Adventure: Shopping, Secret Canals & Boat Rides in Utrecht

BANGKOK’S Best Kept Secret Temples You Never Knew Existed

Bangkok’s BEST Kept Secrets You Won’t Find Anywhere Else!

Amsterdam’s BEST KEPT SECRETS Revealed by Top Tour Guide!

Walking Tour of Apeldoorn – History, Nature, and Royalty

Discover Ayuthaya’s Hidden Secrets: A Day Trip from Bangkok

MY FIRST VITIS TO TAIPEI

Rotterdam’s Top 5 Must-See Places You Never Knew Existed

