6-Day Cultural and Culinary Exploration of Taipei and Surroundings Itinerary

Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Yong Kang Beef Noodles, a beloved spot for traditional Taiwanese beef noodle soup. Afterward, visit the serene Longshan Temple, one of the oldest and most important temples in Taipei.

Take a leisurely walk through the historic Dihua Street, known for its traditional shops and architecture. For lunch, enjoy the famous braised pork rice at Jin Feng Braised Pork Rice. In the afternoon, escape the city and explore the natural beauty of Yangmingshan National Park, with its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and hiking trails.

Relax and unwind with a visit to the Beitou Hot Spring, where you can soak in the healing waters surrounded by lush greenery. For dinner, savor the delicate flavors of Taiwanese cuisine at Tamsui Old Street, a waterfront district known for its nostalgic ambience and fresh seafood.

Cross the border into New Taipei City and head to the stunning rock formations of Yehliu Geopark. Explore the otherworldly landscape, including the famous "Queen's Head" rock. For breakfast, enjoy the local specialty of Ay-Chung Flour-Rice Noodle, a simple yet satisfying dish.

Continue your coastal journey with a visit to the charming fishing village of Jiufen. Walk through its narrow streets, browse the unique shops, and take in the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Lunch can be at Xiao Long Bao, where you can taste some of the best xiaolongbao in town.

Experience the nostalgic atmosphere of the Pingxi Branch Rail Line, known for its old-fashioned train stations and picturesque scenery. Participate in the tradition of releasing sky lanterns in Shifen, sending your wishes into the sky. For dinner, head back to Taipei and enjoy the lively food stalls of Raohe Street Night Market.

Begin your day with a visit to the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, a hub for design and innovation housed in a former tobacco factory. Explore the exhibitions and enjoy a morning coffee at the park's cafe. For a more substantial breakfast, try the famous scallion pancake at Fu Hang Dou Jiang.

After immersing yourself in creativity, continue to the Taipei Zoo, one of the largest zoos in Asia. Spend the afternoon observing a diverse range of animals and, if time allows, take the Maokong Gondola to Maokong to enjoy the tea culture and the panoramic views of Taipei. For lunch, enjoy the local flavors at the zoo's food court.

As the day winds down, visit the Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan) for a moderate hike and a stunning view of the Taipei skyline at sunset. After working up an appetite, head to Ice Monster for their famous shaved ice desserts, a perfect way to cool off after the hike.

Enjoy a leisurely morning with a visit to the Taipei 101 for a second time, this time for a guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of this iconic building. After the tour, have a delightful breakfast at Modern Toilet Restaurant, an eccentric dining experience with a unique theme.

Spend your afternoon exploring the vibrant district of Ximending, known for its youthful atmosphere, street performances, and a wide array of shops and boutiques. For lunch, try the famous large fried chicken at Hot Star Large Fried Chicken, a popular street food choice.

Wind down your day with a visit to the Red House (Ximending Honglou), a historic and cultural landmark in Ximending. Explore the shops and galleries, and if you're interested in the local LGBTQ scene, visit the Red House Theater. For dinner, indulge in the diverse offerings of Shida Night Market, known for its international cuisine and lively ambiance.

Start your day with a visit to the Bao'an Temple, a hidden gem in Taipei with its intricate carvings and peaceful atmosphere. Afterward, enjoy a traditional Taiwanese breakfast at Lin Dong Fang Beef Noodles, known for its rich and flavorful broth.

Explore the lesser-known side of Taipei with a visit to the Ningxia Night Market, a local favorite with a wide variety of street foods and snacks. After indulging in the market's offerings, take a cultural break at the Museum of Contemporary Art Taipei (MOCA Taipei), housed in a historic building and showcasing both local and international contemporary art.

Conclude your trip with a visit to the Four Four South Village (Si Si Nan Cun), a hidden oasis in the heart of the city. Explore the quaint alleyways, art galleries, and small shops. For your final dinner in Taipei, savor the innovative dishes at Ice Monster, known for its refreshing shaved ice desserts as well as its savory menu items. Reflect on your journey as you enjoy the last evening in the vibrant city of Taipei.