Visiting Taiwan soon and wondering where to stay in Taipei? In this comprehensive guide, we will help you pick the best districts, and the best Taipei hotels for your budget, close to attractions and important sites.
Taipei is a 300-year old city that is as tough as it is beautiful. The attraction of the city lies in the fusion of various cultures such as Chinese, Japanese, American, and Southeast Asian. It is also the vibrant and booming capital of Taiwan. Despite its deep connections with the past and storied history, it is a highly cosmopolitan city that is one of the most developed in Asia.
Modern-day Taipei has been highly Westernized, with an economy and infrastructure that could rival any modern city in the continent. The wide array of temples, historical buildings, and museums in the city are perfect examples of the beautiful fusion of the old and the new.
The best place to stay in Taipei is the Xinyi District, close to most tourist attractions, restaurants, and nightlife.
Table of Contents
- Where To Stay In Taipei
- Xinyi District
- Why Stay In Xinyi?
- Why Avoid Xinyi?
- Where To Stay In Xinyi?
- Ximending District
- Why Stay In Ximending?
- Why Avoid Ximending?
- Where To Stay In Ximending?
- Shilin District
- Why Stay In Shilin?
- Why Avoid Shilin?
- Where To Stay In Shilin?
- Beitou District
- Why Stay In Beitou?
- Why Avoid Beitou?
- Where To Stay In Beitou?
- Wenshan District
- Why Stay In Wenshan?
- Why Avoid Wenshan?
- Where To Stay In Wenshan?
- Zhongshan District
- Why Stay In Zhongshan?
- Why Avoid Zhongshan?
- Where To Stay In Zhongshan?
- Daan District
- Why Stay In Daan?
- Why Avoid Daan?
- Where To Stay In Daan?
- Shida District
- Why Stay In Shida?
- Why Avoid Shida?
- Where To Stay In Shida?
- Songshan District
- Why Stay In Songshan?
- Why Avoid Songshan?
- Where To Stay In Songshan?
- Wanhua District
- Why Stay In Wanhua?
- Why Avoid Wanhua?
- Where To Stay In Wanhua?
- Zhongzheng District
- Why Stay In Zhongzheng?
- Why Avoid Zhongzheng?
- Where To Stay In Zhongzheng?
- Datong District
- Why Stay In Datong?
- Why Avoid Datong?
- Where To Stay In Datong?
- Nangang District
- Why Stay In Nangang?
- Why Avoid Nangang?
- Where To Stay In Nangang?
- Tianmu District
- Why Stay In Tianmu?
- Why Avoid Tianmu?
- Where To Stay In Tianmu?
- Is it cheap to stay in Taiwan?
- Where is the best location to stay in Taipei?
- What is the best district to stay in Taipei?
| ❤️ Best Area for first-timers: | Xinyi District |
| 💎 Best luxury 5* hotel: | Mandarin Oriental Taipei |
| 🏨 Best mid-range hotel: | Hotel Resonance Taipei |
| 🛏️ Best budget hotel: | We Come Hostel |
Where To Stay In Taipei
There are several options available when deciding where to stay in Taipei. Your choice of a neighbourhood will impact the kind of travel experience you can enjoy and the things you want to do in Taipei.
When visiting Taipei, it’s a good idea to get a local Taiwan SIM card, so you can have easy access to the Internet during your trip.
Xinyi District
Why Stay In Xinyi?
Xinyi is a place for everyone who visits the city, whether they are locals, tourists, or business travellers. If you want good food and enjoy shopping as well as a vibrant nightlife, Xinyi can offer you all of that.
Dubbed as the Manhattan of Taipei, Xinyi is filled with shopping malls, restaurants, and shops where you can have a fun night.
Everything is close by, mostly walking distance, and if you enjoy taking photos, Xinyi can offer you quality street photography.
Not a fan of walking? Find your nearest MRT station, hop on the modern subway and discover each Taipei districts comfortably.
The world’s tallest building, Taipei 101 (book your ticket online, skip the line with priority pass), as well as the Taipei World Trade Center, National Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, and Taipei International Convention Center, are just some of the attractions around Xinyi.
For fantastic views of the city, especially close to sunset, hike up the Xianshan Hiking trail (Elephant Mountain). This is a short, 20-minute hike, starting at the entrance of Fujhoushan Park.
Why Avoid Xinyi?
Although Xinyi might have everything that you may need during your stay in Taipei, it can be a little expensive. The place may also be too crowded, as it is often filled with both locals and tourists exploring the area.
Where To Stay In Xinyi?
Located in the Songshan Cultural & Creative Park, Eslite luxury hotel boasts spacious rooms, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, spacious banquet halls. It takes only 10 minutes to walk to Sun-Yat-Sen Memorial Hall MRT Station.
Located in the Xinyi District, Just Inn Taipei has 24-hour front desk, rooms are equipped with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with cable channels, a kettle, a bidet, slippers, and a desk. Taipei Arena is 20 mins walk away.
Place‧X Hotel offers private and dormitory rooms in Xinyi District. Taipei Main Station is 8 metro stops away.
Ximending District
Why Stay In Ximending?
The entertainment heart of Taipei, Ximending is a place where you can find good food, experience roaring nightlife, and do all the shopping that your heart desires.
Being an ideal spot for retailers, the area has quite several malls where you can shop both day and night. If you want to try out traditional Taiwanese food, Ximending is also a great place to do so, with the various street foods and restaurants around.
Why Avoid Ximending?
If you prefer to go exploring at night and want a calm surrounding, Ximending is not the ideal place for you as it gets busier during the night with the bars coming to life. It can get too crowded as well, with all the shopping places and restaurants and other budget-friendly food spots.
Where To Stay In Ximending?
Situated in Ximending Shopping Area, just 1 metro stop away from Taipei Main Station, this modern hotel features air conditioning, a wardrobe, a sofa, a desk and flat-screen TV, a minibar, refrigerator, and tea/coffee maker. The hotel can arrange airport shuttle service on request.
City Inn Plus is located just a few stops from Taipei Main Station, a 5-minute walk from Ximen MRT Station. This mid-range hotel has colourful designs with unique artwork in each room and operates a self-service laundry.
Click here for prices and book CityInn Hotel Plus – Ximending Branch
One of the best budget hotel in the area, Green World Mai – NanJing offers spacious and air-conditioned rooms with modern decor and free WiFi in Taipei. A fitness centre is available on site.
Shilin District
Why Stay In Shilin?
A great place for families, Shilin offers a less hectic environment and an enjoyable sightseeing experience in Taipei, since it’s close to many tourist spots in the city.
If you seek to enjoy some good food, Shilin is the home of one of Taipei’s night markets, the Shilin Night Market. If you feel overwhelmed by all the options at the market, book your night market tour here with a local guide.
The area is also the home of the world’s first cat café, which is the place to be for cat lovers.
Some other attractions and activities that can be done around the area include the National Palace Museum, Yangmingshan National Park, Shilin Sheong Temple, Shilin Paper Mills, and many more.
Why Avoid Shilin?
The Shilin Night Market can get very busy with people doing their shopping and enjoying the variety of food on offer.
Families, students, tourists, and other groups are common in the area, so if you don’t enjoy crowds, Shilin is not that ideal for you, especially during the holidays.
Where To Stay In Shilin?
One of the best luxury hotels in Shilin District, less than 15 mins walk from Shilin Night Market, The Tango Hotel Taipei Jiantan features accommodation with a fitness centre, free private parking and a shared lounge.
Click here for prices and book The Tango Hotel Taipei Jiantan
Featuring 42-inch flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, Dandy Tian Mu offers modern family rooms. The best mid range hotel in this area with an outdoor cafe and free parking.
Mellow Fields Budget Hotel offers cosy guest rooms with elegant and refreshing interiors. Conveniently located near the Taipei Expo Park, Taipei Martyr’s Shrine and National Palace Museum.
Beitou District
Why Stay In Beitou?
If you are a nature lover, Beitou District is the place for you to stay in Taipei. Beitou is in the northernmost part of Taipei and is home to the lush scenery of the Yangmingshan National Park. This place is ideal for hiking and is famous for its hot springs.
Its location is also perfect for seasonal viewings of the famous cherry blossoms, and it provides access to panoramic views of the city. The Yangmingshan Bus Terminal at the entrance of the national park is only a 45-mins bus ride away.
Why Avoid Beitou?
Beitou is not the right place for you if you are seeking the best restaurants, nightlife, and shopping.
Sure, there are good options in the area, but there are other parts of Taipei that can provide you with more choices.
Where To Stay In Beitou?
Featuring free WiFi and a sun terrace, Hotel Royal Beitou offers accommodation in Taipei, 20 mins walk from Beitou Hot Spring Park. The hotel has a spa centre and hot spring bath, and guests can enjoy a meal at the restaurant. National Palace Museum is 40 mins away on foot.
Hotel Leisure Beitou is located in front of Fuxinggang MRT Station in Taipei. Surrounded by hot springs and the Yangming Mountain, it is still easily accessible to Taipei city centre.
Great budget hotel, Beitou, Phoenix Pavilion Hot Spring Hotel offers lovely spa and private hot springs facilities. Free parking and free WiFi are available on site.
Click here for prices and book Phoenix Pavilion Hot Spring Hotel
Wenshan District
Why Stay In Wenshan?
Wenshan is the place to stay in Taipei if you are looking for a remote area with some views of nature. It is still accessible to the city, but Wenshan is usually the destination of locals who want a break from the busy city life. This area is surrounded by mountains and is the “go to” place for some peace and quiet.
Wenshan also offers some attractions that will keep you entertained during your visit. This includes the Taipei Zoo, Maokong, Jingmei Night Market, and the Fudekeng Environmental Restoration Park.
The district can be access via two subway lines. On the west, the Songshan-Xindian Line and on the east, the Wenhu Line.
The Taipei Zoo is at the last station of the Wenhu Line. There is also a lovely cable car here that will take you high above the city to the Maokong Gondola Station.
Why Avoid Wenshan?
Wenshan is not ideal for the younger crowd as often times, you would find them in the Shida and Gongguan areas. And, if you are into arts and culture, you should head to Zhongshan district instead, which has more to offer.
Where To Stay In Wenshan?
Heated, rooftop outdoor pool with sun terrace, panoramic views of Taipei City and modern rooms waiting for you at The Okura Prestige Taipei 5*. Sauna zone at its spa, 3 dining options and an in-house bar provides entertainment.
The rooms in the Macchi Hotel are equipped with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels. Every room comes with air conditioning, and certain rooms at Macchi Hotel – Taipei have a terrace. All units will provide guests with a fridge.
Guest Hotel offers comfortable accommodation in modern, air-conditioned guest rooms complete with a TV, kettle and private bathroom. Extras include slippers and free toiletries. Numerous dining options can be found nearby.
Zhongshan District
Why Stay In Zhongshan?
Zhongshan is the place for people who are arts and culture enthusiasts, as well as those who like to shop and explore an exciting and interesting neighbourhood.
If you appreciate handmade crafts, the area houses some of the best independent designers in Taiwan. Zhongshan also offers good food, with quite many restaurants scattered around. It is the best place for you if you want to be in the heart of suburban Taipei.
Since this district is a culture centre, attractions include cultural wonders such as the Taipei Fine Arts Museum, National Taiwan Museum, SPOT-Taipei Film House, Xingtian Temple, and the Taipei Museum of Contemporary Art.
Zhongshan has outstanding connections to all the other districts, and it’s home the Taipei main station.
The Taipei main station connects all subway lines in the city, and also has railway lines leading to other parts of Taiwan.
Why Avoid Zhongshan?
Being a business district, and considered as the tourism centre in Taipei, Zhongshan can be quite busy. So, if you are not so much into crowds, the district can be too overwhelming for you.
Where To Stay In Zhongshan?
Parkview Taipei features a restaurant, fitness centre, a bar, and garden in Taipei. The rooms in the hotel equipped with air conditioning, a safe deposit box, flat-screen TV, and kettle. The property offers a paid airport shuttle service.
It’s the best mid-range hotel in the Zhongshan District. The Air-conditioned guest rooms are fitted with a minibar, tea/coffee making facilities and a flat-screen TV. The en suite bathroom comes with toiletries and a hairdryer. Songjiang Nanjing Subway Station is a 10-minute walk, Taipei Main Station is a 20-minute walk.
Each room is equipped with a TV, a small fridge and a private bathroom with shower or bathtub and toilet. Free WiFi throughout the property. Definitely the best budget hotel in the area.
Daan District
Why Stay In Daan?
South of the large Zhongshan District, Daan, also known as Da’an, is a small area but just as important.
If you want more peace and quiet, Daan is the place to be during your stay in Taipei. It offers a less busy city life.
Despite being a residential neighbourhood, Daan has trendy bars, and it bears the reputation of being the home of expats. It also offers you a good place for shopping. Check the Ming Yao Department Store while there.
Daan is also great for you if you are a foodie as two of the best food night markets in Taipei are here: the Tonghua Night Market, Yongkang street and the Shida Night Market. Also check out Yongkang street for native dishes like chicken feet. Yum!
Daan is also where you can find the original Din Tai Fung restaurant.
Why Avoid Daan?
Staying in Daan can be expensive, so if you are on a tight budget, it may not be the best place for you.
Since it is more of a residential area, Daan does not offer a super exciting city vibe.
Where To Stay In Daan?
Boasting a rooftop outdoor swimming pool with great city views, Hotel Proverbs Taipei is sitting in Daan District where guests can easily find a range of dining, shopping and entertainment options. Da’an forest park is just a short walk away.
Located a 1-minute walk from the Daan Forest Park, Dandy Hotel-Daan Park Branch is a 5-minute walk from Yongkang commercial area with plenty of shopping and dining options. A free self-service laundry is available as well.
The Corner House offers modern apartment-style rooms with a kitchenette, neutral colours and warm lighting. All come with a flat-screen satellite TV and a personal safe and private bathrooms.
Shida District
Why Stay In Shida?
You will definitely enjoy your stay in Shida if you are into alternative and trendy styles.
Shida’s university area has its night market offering a plethora of street food and retail options.
No need to go far because Shida, located in the centre of Taipei City, houses several rock bars, cafés, and restaurants that you can conveniently visit and enjoy.
Shida is also considered to be the most English-friendly area, making it very convenient for tourists to roam around and communicate with the locals.
Why Avoid Shida?
If you are planning a trip to relax and get away from the traffic and busy streets, Shida wouldn’t be the right place to stay for your next trip.
If you don’t like crowds, a visit to the crowded and consistently jam-packed Shida Night Market within the university area would not be your cup of tea.
Where To Stay In Shida?
Enjoy the Park Taipei Hotel during your stay in Taipei. The hotel provides free private parking, air-conditioned rooms and suites furnished with a satellite TV, a desk, and a minibar. The private bathroom comes with a bathtub, hairdryer and free bath amenities.
GoodMore Hotel offers accommodation in Taipei. Shida Night Market is just around the corner, while Da’an Forest Park is 20 mins walk away.
Songshan District
Why Stay In Songshan?
If you are travelling for business, then Songshan District is a good place to stay in. Hailed as Taipei’s Wall Street, tall buildings line the area and the vicinity is usually packed with business people. It is also near the airport, which makes it perfect for short visits.
Attractions in the area include the famous Raohe Night Market, which is popular for its wide selection of local food.
This district is also home to the Taipei Arena and other notable attractions, such as the Breeze Center and the Ciyou Temple.
Songshan District is well-connected to the rest of the city via the Wenhu and Songshan-Xindian Lines. You will be able to get anywhere from the Nanjing Fuxing Subway Station.
Why Avoid Songshan?
If you are in Taipei for culture and history, then this is not the place for you. Great sites for exploring Taiwan’s history are found in Zhongzheng while Zhongshan has a lot to offer for experiencing Taiwan’s culture.
Where To Stay In Songshan?
Taipei Fullerton is a luxury hotel is centrally located, offers a fitness centre, free parking. Guest rooms feature modern interiors and have both air-conditioning, bluetooth speaker, Nespresso coffee machine and a flat-screen TV.
Only 4 metro stops away from Taipei Main Station and the Taipei Fine Arts Museum, Goldinn Hotel offers spacious rooms with working desk, wardrobe and flat-screen TV. The private bathroom comes with shower facilities, free toiletries and a hairdryer.
Green Garden Apartments-A is situated 1.1 miles from Taipei Arena and 1.4 miles from Liaoning Night Market. A Full English/Irish breakfast is available each morning at the aparthotel.
Wanhua District
Why Stay In Wanhua?
Wanhua is one of the oldest districts of Taipei. You will find the most iconic and historic buildings here like the Lungshan Temple built in 1738.
In contrast to its landscape, this place is actually a hub for young people, and it is a very lively district that you should not miss. This is the go-to place if you want to see Taipei’s emerging pop culture.
Ximending Pedestrian Area is located here, which is a must-visit place in Taipei. You’ll also enjoy the grand selection of clothing shops, as well as restaurants and bars.
You will find the Guangzhou Street Night Market and Huaxi Street Night Market right next to each other in Wanhua. Further east, the Taipei Botanical Garden can provide the much-needed relaxation and quiet.
Why Avoid Wanhua?
Wanhua district can be a bit crowded with tourists and young people. If you want more peace and quiet, then the area might be too much for your sense.
Or, if you want to be closer to nature, there are more lush areas in Taipei than Wanhua.
Where To Stay In Wanhua?
Boasting great views of Taipei, set in Twin Towers Taipei, only a 3-minute walk from MRT Longshan Temple Station. Just one metro stop from Ximen shopping district and Taipei Main Station is two metro stops away. The hotel provides a superb range of recreation and leisure facilities, such as fitness centre and an outdoor pool.
Conveniently set in the Wanhua District of Taipei, Monka Hotel is only a few steps from Longshan Temple. Facilities at this property include a shared kitchen and luggage storage space.
The guest rooms all come with a flat-screen TV, a kettle and a minibar. Complimentary bottles of mineral water, coffee and tea will be found in the room. All rooms have a private bathroom with free toiletries and a hairdryer.
Zhongzheng District
Why Stay In Zhongzheng?
The Zhongzheng district is the home of Taiwan’s history, making it ideal for people who find enjoyment in exploring the history and culture of Taiwan. Photography enthusiasts can have great subjects for their photos in this district.
If you want to stay somewhere with many accessible sights, Zhongzheng is one of the best places to be, as it also has an excellent transportation system. The Taipei Railway Station is located here, giving you easy access to the different cities around Taiwan.
Some popular tourist destinations in Zhongzheng are the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, the National Museum of History, the Chinese Taipei Film Archive, and the National Theater and Concert Hall.
Why Avoid Zhongzheng?
The district does not necessarily focus on fun nightlife and shopping. There are night markets nearby Zhongzheng but isn’t much else to do in the area at night.
It is not the best place for you if you prefer to go out and enjoy a fulfilling nightlife.
Where To Stay In Zhongzheng?
Designed in a simple style, Via Hotel Taipei Station offers accommodations for guests with a 24-hour front desk, air conditioning and soundproofing, flat-screen TV, kettle and refrigerator. The private bathroom comes with shower facilities, free toiletries, free slippers and a hairdryer.
Amando Inn offers an American or Asian breakfast. Rooms are equipped with a kettle. Every room is fitted with a private bathroom. All units have a seating area.
City Inn Plus is located at the popular Ximending Area, a 5-minute walk from Ximen MRT Station. The Taipei Bus Station is just a few blocks away. It offers stylish budget accommodation with private bathroom, air-conditioned guest rooms feature colourful designs with unique artwork.
Click here for prices and book CityInn Hotel Plus – Ximending Branch
Datong District
Why Stay In Datong?
The Datong district is great for people who are interested in culture and history, and who enjoy great food. There are three night-markets in the area: the Yansan Night Market, Dalong Night Market, and the Ningxia Night Market. All of which offer a variety of choices for food lovers.
Museums, such as the Museum of Contemporary Art Taipei, are also in the area. Spend some time to appreciate the history and culture of the city there.
Also, as a whole, the Datong district is a great place for anyone who is travelling on a budget. While still close to the centre, you will find some of the best budget hotels here.
Why Avoid Datong?
Museums, temples, night markets, and destinations that focus on culture and history are mainly what the Datong district offers. There are few shopping malls in the area, so if you seek to spend more time on retail therapy, then it is not the ideal place for you.
Where To Stay In Datong?
The guest rooms are furnished by Taiwan designers, from room amenities to bathroom supplies. All units feature air conditioning, combo washer dryer, cable TV, Bluetooth speaker and refrigerator. The private bathroom has shower facilities, free toiletries and hairdryer.
Guests can enjoy the on-site restaurant, rooms have a simple décor, a private bathroom with walk-in shower. This property also has a tour desk providing tourist information. Taipei Confucius Temple and Taipei Film House are just 15 mins walk away.
We Come Hostel offers mid-range and budget options in the heart of Taipei. It features a library, a terrace, and a cosy shared lounge. Just a few steps from Dihua Street, and a short subway ride from the shopping district. Shared toilets and bathrooms are available for all guests.
Nangang District
Why Stay In Nangang?
Nangang is the district in Taipei that centres on education and learning. It is a great place for students who seek peaceful and calm surroundings.
This district houses some museums and parks such as the Nanhu Riverside Park, the Lingnan Fine Arts Museum, and the Shanshuilu Eco Park. Other accessible places from Nangang are Xinyi district and the Roahe Night Market.
Why Avoid Nangang?
Since this district is mainly focused on an educational environment, there are not many attractions that can be found close by.
This is not the best place for you if what you desire to do during your stay in Taiwan is to spend more time shopping or going out at night.
Where To Stay In Nangang?
Located in the Nangang district in Taipei, Green World Songshan is a certified Muslim-friendly hotel. The hotel features a restaurant and a gym. Free WiFi is available at the property. Each room at this hotel is air conditioned and is equipped with a TV. Each room comes with a private bathroom. For your comfort, you will find slippers, free toiletries and a hairdryer. The property has a 24-hour front desk for guests. Green World Songshan is around a 2-minute walk from Houshanpi Metro Station. Taipei Songshan Airport is around 20 minutes’ drive away. Raohe Street Night Market is around 7 minutes’ drive away. Wufenpu Garment Shopping District is around 5 minutes’ drive away.
Nangang District is a great choice for travellers interested in shopping for food, culturally diverse food and city trips. Rooms are equipped with a private bathroom with an electronic bidet, a bath and walk-in shower.
Fitting with air conditioning and hardwood flooring, Amba Taipei Songshan offers guest rooms with a wardrobe, refrigerator, electric kettle, coffee machine and flat-screen satellite TV. The private bathroom comes with shower facilities and free toiletries.
Tianmu District
Why Stay In Tianmu?
Tianmu is an extremely English-friendly area and definitely a good place to stay for many tourists. Best known as an enclave for Taiwan’s US expatriate community, Tianmu has great choices of restaurants offering a variety of flavorful cuisines and yummy desserts.
You can also enjoy a stroll through the Tianmu Baseball Stadium and its neighbouring park, or hike trails from the Zhongshan North Road all the way up to Yangmingsha.
Why Avoid Tianmu?
If you love to visit and shop for goods that are brand new, unique, and exclusive, Tianmu is not your ideal place. Its market has compositing stalls that are not fixed and goods sold are mostly second-hand or pre-loved.
Tianmu is not yet included in the MRT network. This means that tourists and even residents are likely to experience slight inconveniences in terms of transportation to and from the area.
Where To Stay In Tianmu?
Air-conditioned guestrooms feature modern interiors with stylish furnishings. The en suite bathroom comes with spa shower. Each room is fitted with a minibar, tea/coffee making facilities and a flat-screen TV.
Click here for prices and book Beauty Hotels – Beautique Hotel
Fitted with white and pale wood furnishings, pleasant air-conditioned rooms at Dandy Hotel have ample workspace. For convenience, a fridge, electric kettle and a hairdryer are provided.
Is it cheap to stay in Taiwan?
Overall, Taiwan is still an affordable destination with many mid-range and budget accommodations. If you are, however, after luxury hotels in Taipei, you won’t get disappointed.
Where is the best location to stay in Taipei?
The best location to stay in Taipei is the Zhongzheng District, as it is very central, close to subway and bus stations and all other parts of Taipei can easily be reached.
What is the best district to stay in Taipei?
The best district to stay in Taipei is the Xinyi District. This is our recommendation because it’s close to most tourist attractions, restaurants, and nightlife. The infrastructure is outstanding and while you are in a quieter part of the city, you definitely won’t miss out on anything.
Did we miss something? Do you have any questions? Let us know in the comment section below.
As always, don’t forget to buy travel insurance before you travel abroad.
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