Are you ready to explore the vibrant city of Taipei with the family?
Taipei offers a harmonious blend of traditional culture and modern marvels, ensuring that both young travellers and the young at heart will find plenty to explore and enjoy.
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From the soaring heights of Taipei 101 to the enchanting alleys of local night markets; from playful hours spent in world-class museums to serene moments in lush parks, our itinerary is your roadmap to a fun family vacation in Taipei.
Read on to go on the ultimate Taipei adventure with us!
Related article: Best things to do in Taipei with kids
One of the biggest perks of booking private transfers is the peace of mind it brings.
You can sit back, relax, and enjoy the ride while your driver takes care of the route.
We booked our vehicles from and to the airport through Klook which makes booking a breeze with a range of vehicle options from economy 4-seaters to 10-seater buses.
Private day tours and car charters are a convenient way to explore the outskirts of Taipei and was our transport of choice for the trip.
For families, particularly those with young kids, these services can transform your travel experience, making it more comfortable, efficient, and enjoyable for the entire family.
Say goodbye to the stress of navigating public transportation with little ones in tow.
No more figuring out bus schedules or wrestling with strollers on crowded trains. Instead, you get to relax in a comfortable vehicle that takes you exactly where you want to go.
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Private tours also offer more flexibility than standard group tours.
You can tailor your itinerary to suit your family's interests and needs, spending as much or as little time as you want at each location.
For some tours, your driver may also double up as your tour guide, so you get a knowledgeable local who can share fascinating tidbits and stories about Taipei's history and landmarks and also show you the best photo spots.
While the day tours and private car charters might seem pricier upfront, we think it's well worth it when you consider the time saved (which means more sightseeing!), rich local insights, and the peace of mind knowing your family is taken care of.
We made all of our bookings through Klook which offers a wide variety of options to choose from depending on your interests.
Here are some of the tours that we've booked for day trips around Taipei:
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We had the pleasure of staying in the Plaza Suite at the Shangri-La Far Eastern Taipei.
With a sprawling 802 sq ft of luxury and comfort, there was plenty of room for the whole family, with separate areas for relaxation, work, and sleep.
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The highlight of our room has to be the panoramic views of Taipei it offers.
Whether you're sipping your morning coffee or winding down after a day of sightseeing, the floor-to ceiling windows provide a mesmerising backdrop.
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We loved gazing out at the bustling city below, with the iconic Taipei 101 punctuating the skyline.
The Plaza Suite comes with Horizon Club Privileges, which added an extra layer of luxury to our stay.
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These privileges include access to the exclusive Horizon Club Lounge, where you can start your day with complimentary breakfast, enjoy afternoon tea, or unwind with evening cocktails.
Location: No. 201, Section 2, Dunhua S Rd, Da’an District, Taipei City, Taiwan 106 (Map)
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Begin your day at Taipei 101, an architectural masterpiece that was once the tallest building in the world.
Its bamboo stalk design is a nod to Asian aesthetics, and standing at 508 metres, is a sight to behold against the city's skyline.
The mall at the base of the tower is a shopping haven, where you can find everything from luxury brands to unique Taiwanese boutiques.
Location: No. 7, Section 5, Xinyi Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan 110 (Map)
Make your way to the 89th floor to the Taipei 101 Observatory.
The super-fast elevator ride itself is an adventure, taking you to the top in just 37 seconds!
The observatory offers a panoramic view of the city that is simply spectacular.
You can even step outside on the outdoor observatory on the 91st floor if you're feeling brave.
While you're at the observatory, don't miss the massive tuned mass damper that keeps the skyscraper stable during typhoons and earthquakes. It's a fascinating piece of engineering!
After taking in the views, it's time for some gastronomic delights.
Taipei 101 is home to a wide range of International and Taiwanese cuisines from beef noodle soup and braised pork rice to oyster omelettes and dumplings.
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Renowned Xiao Long Bao restaurant Din Tai Fung also has an outlet here which is very popular with both locals and tourists.
Din Tai Fung is not a must-visit for us through as the queue times here are often quite long and if we're being honest, the food here is really not that much different from its overseas branches.
If time permits, consider a stop at National Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall, which is dedicated to the founding father of Taiwan.
Admire the grandeur of the architecture and explore exhibits about his life and his role in the revolution.
You can also catch the changing of the guards spectacle which occurs every hour from 9am-5pm.
A few minutes walk from Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall is the Song Shan Cultural Creative Park.
This site was once a tobacco factory but has now transformed into a hub for design and creative industries. You'll find art installations, design shops, and exhibits showcasing Taiwan's creative talents.
Check out the Red Dot Design Museum and the Taiwan Design Museum, both located within the park.
Location:
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As the day turns into evening, make your way to the lively Tonghua Night Market, a 10-minute taxi ride from Taipei 101.
This lively market is a foodies paradise and is one of our favourite night markets to visit with kids.
It's much less crowded and offers a more child-friendly experience than more popular night markets like Shilin Night Market.
Plus the food options here are just as varied and mouth-watering!
Try the stinky tofu for a truly local experience, or opt for popular snacks like grilled Taiwanese sausages and fried chicken.
Don't forget to round off your meal with everyone's favourite - bubble tea!
Another staple of Taiwan's night markets are its claw machines and carnival games, which the kids are sure to enjoy as well.
Location: Tonghua Night Market (Map)
Shifen is known for its renowned for its old street, waterfall, and sky lanterns.
Start by visiting the breathtaking Shifen Waterfall, often referred to as the "Niagara of Taiwan".
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The waterfall is a majestic 20m high and 40m wide spectacle that cascades down into the Keelung River.
Its immense size and power have earned it its grand nickname, and it certainly lives up to the hype.
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Getting to the waterfall is part of the adventure as you'll be strolling through picturesque landscapes, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in Taiwan's lush natural beauty.
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Shifen is is also known for its old railway station where you can release sky lanterns into the air.
It's a beautiful tradition where you write your wishes on the lantern before letting it float into the sky.
There's something incredibly serene about watching your lantern drift away, carrying your hopes and dreams with it.
Make sure you leave some time to explore Shifen's charming old streets that are lined with food stalls, souvenir shops, and traditional homes.
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For lunch, stop by Hai Longzhu Seafood Restaurant at Keelung for some fresh seafood.
The restaurant also has some unique Taiwanese dishes on its menu such as Minced shrimp with lettuce and Miso fish soup.
The food here is delicious and best of all comes at an affordable price.
Location: No. 71-7, Jijin 3rd Rd, Anle District, Keelung City, Taiwan 204 (Map)
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This natural wonder on the North Coast is famous for its unique geological formations.
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The rock formations here have been shaped by centuries of wind and wave erosion, creating a surreal landscape that looks like its been plucked straight from a fantasy novel.
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The most famous is the Queen's Head, a thin, tall rock that resembles - you guessed it - the silhouette of a queen's head.
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This mountain town was once a prosperous gold mining area, but now it's a popular tourist destination known for its narrow alleyways, red lanterns, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Start by wandering around the bustling Jiufen Old Street. Here, you can indulge in Taiwanese snacks like sweet potato fries and fishballs or pick up a souvenir or two.
As the sun begins to set, find a cosy spot at one of the many teahouses and enjoy a traditional Taiwanese tea ceremony.
The A-Mei Teahouse is a popular choice and is said to have inspired the bathhouse in Studio Ghibli's "Spirited Away" film.
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Take a scenic ride on the Maokong Gondola which offers breathtaking panoramic views of Taipei City and the lush green tea plantations below.
Start at MaoKong Station and alight at Taipei Zoo South Station. This brings you to an entrance at the top of the Taipei Zoo (the Zoo is built on a hill).
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You can then walk downhill towards the Zoo's main entrance.
The Taipei Zoo is one of the largest zoos in Asia and there's plenty to see here.
From pandas to penguins, and elephants to exotic birds, this place is a wildlife lover's paradise.
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Remember to wear comfortable shoes because there's a lot of ground to cover!
One of the highlights is the Giant Panda House.
The resident pandas - Tuan Tuan, Yuan Yuan, and their adorable offspring Yuan Zai - are sure to bring a big smile to your face.
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Watching these lovely creatures munching on bamboo is a heartwarming experience that will delight both kids and adults.
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As evening rolls in, it's time to head to the Shin Yeh Taiwanese Signature at Taipei Marriot.
This restaurant is known for its home-style Taiwanese cooking and the menu boasts a range of authentic dishes that will give you a taste of Taiwan's rich culinary heritage.
Reservations are recommended to ensure you have a seat at this popular spot.
Address: No. 199 Lequn 2nd Road, Taipei (Taipei Marriott Hotel, Midtown) (Map)
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To wrap up your day, head over to the Miramar Entertainment Park and take a ride on the Ferris wheel.
As one of the largest in Taiwan (it's the largest in Taipei), it offers a mesmerizing view of the city's night skyline.
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Watching the city lights twinkle against the dark sky is the perfect way to end a day full of exploration and adventure.
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For even more fun, the little ones can ride the carousel and play at the arcade right next to the Ferris Wheel.
Location: No.20, Jingye 3rd. Road, Zhongshan District, Taipei City, Taiwan (R.O.C.) (Map)
Located on the Northeast Coast of Taiwan, Yilan County is just a stone's throw away from Taipei, yet it feels like a whole different world.
It's a nature lover's paradise, being blessed with lush mountains, serene rivers, and picturesque coastlines.
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The Lanyang Museum is an architectural gem that is designed to mimic the local terrain.
Inside, you'll discover exhibits showcasing the region's natural history, culture, and art.
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What sets Lanyang Museum apart is its child-friendly approach.
The museum provides a range of activities designed with children in mind, going beyond the usual 'look-but-don't-touch' philosophy of many museums.
Kids can try their hand at traditional handicraft workshops, learning about local crafts such as pottery and weaving.
This hands-on approach brings Yilan's culture to life in a way that is both fun and educational.
One of the highlights for families is the Archaeological Kid's Land.
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In this interactive exhibit, kids embark on an archaeological adventure, uncovering the stories of Yilan's prehistoric inhabitants.
They can even try their hand at excavating an "archaeological site", discovering hidden treasures and experiencing the thrill of unearthing history!
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The kids had a lot of fun in this area so plan on spending a bit of time here when you're visiting the museum.
Location: No. 750, Section 3, Qingyun Road, Toucheng Township, Yilan County 26144,Taiwan(R.O.C) (Map)
Recommended by our driver, this restaurant's signature dish its crispy chicken which has earned it a stellar reputation in Taiwan.
Indeed this was one of the best chicken we've ever had!
The chicken is roasted to perfection over charcoal and sugarcane - crispy on the outside and tender and juicy on the inside, with a blend of spices that gives the chicken a unique flavour profile which is unlike any chicken with ever tasted before.
Adding to the charm of the restaurant is the chef-founder himself Da Ren Ge, who is known for his signature thick gold chain necklace which he proudly wears even when cooking.
If you're lucky enough to catch him at the restaurant, he's always friendly and more than happy to pose for photos with guests.
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Zhang Mei Ama's Farm is one of the most loved attractions in Yilan.
You'll get the chance to get up close to an assortment of adorable animals that will melt your hearts including alpacas, capybaras, baby kangaroos, rabbits, Patagonians, and Valois Blacknose - a breed of sheep that is so fluffy that it's like cuddling a cloud!
One of the things we love about this place is the freedom to explore.
You can wander around, soaking up the peaceful atmosphere and admiring the animals at your own pace.
Feed the animals, pet them, and even take selfies with them!
It's an experience that both kids and adults will enjoy.
Just remember to treat these sweet animals with kindness and respect.
They are used to human interaction but gentleness is key.
Location: No. 161, Section 2, Xingjianxi 1st Road, Sanxing Township, Yilan County (Map)
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After the farm visit, it's time to head back to the city and immerse yourself in the bustling energy of Ximending, Taipei's "Harajuku".
This bustling market offers an array of delicious street food from braised noodles and steamed dumplings to fried chicken and bubble tea.
Apart from food, Ximending is also known for its shopping and entertainment options. Explore the shops, enjoy the street performances, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.
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Location: No. 127, Hanzhong St, Wanhua District, Taipei City, Taiwan 108 (Map)
The district of Beitou is famous for its natural hot springs, with many hot spring resorts and public baths where visitors can soak in the rejuvenating waters.
The star attraction here is the Thermal Valley, a steamy basin with water that's a striking jade green.
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Also known as "Hell's Valley", this natural hot spring lake is quite a sight.
The walkways and viewing platforms all around the lake make for an easy and safe exploration.
Just a short distance away is the Beitou Hot Spring Museum.
Housed in a beautiful Japanese colonial-era building, it offers fascinating insights into the history and culture of hot springs in Taiwan.
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Located roughly 805 metres above sea level on the slopes of Mount Qixing, this active volcano site is famous for its fumaroles (steam vents), sulfur deposits, and hot springs.
Prepare to be awed by the sight (and smell!) of steam vents and sulfur deposits.
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As you approach Xiaoyoukeng, the first thing you'll notice is the steam bellowing from the ground, a stark reminder of the Earth's fiery core.
The boardwalk guides you safely around the steaming vents, offering an intimate look at this volcanic landscape.
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The observation deck offers panoramic views of Taipei City and the surrounding mountains - a perfect spot for some family photos!
For the adventurous families, Xiaoyoukeng is also the starting point for some of the best hiking trails in Yangmingshan National Park.
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Once you've had your fill of nature's wonders, head to the charming seaside district of Tamsui (also known as Danshui).
Start with a visit to Tamsui Old Street where you'll find shops brimming with handmade crafts, souvenirs, and tantalizing street food.
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The street is also filled with various carnival games - a sure hit with the kids!
As evening rolls in, take a leisurely stroll along the Tamsui River.
The kids will love the open space to run around and you'll be treated to a stunning sunset.
It's the perfect end to a day of adventure.
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Located in the Shilin District, the Taipei Astronomical Museum is a great place to ignite children's curiosity about the universe.
Your little explorers will be thrilled with the hands-on displays, like touching actual meteorites and peering into telescopes to view distant stars.
It's an interactive adventure that will leave them starry eyed and full of wonder.
One of the highlights of the visit will undoubtedly be the 'Cosmic Adventure' ride.
Strap in for a 10-minute adventure ride where you'll board a spacecraft and zoom off into the unknown.
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As you travel deeper into space, marvel at celestial bodies, dodge asteroids, and maybe even spot an alien!
Location: No. 363, Jihe Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111 (Map)
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Conveniently located next to the Taipei Astronomical Museum, the children's playground here is designed with kids' boundless energy and curiosity in mind.
The playground is equipped with play features suitable for all ages.
From gentle slides and swings for the little ones to taller slides and obstacles for the more adventurous.
While the kids are at play, parents can take a breather in the beautifully landscaped park.
Find a bench, stretch your legs, soak up some sun, and recharge with a cup of coffee in hand.
Location: No. 16, Lane 152, Meilun St, Shilin District, Taipei City (Map)
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