Taipei is the capital of Taiwan, an island located off the coast of China. With a total population of close to 3 million people, it is the most important city on the island and it has a lot to offer to its visitors. Indeed, Taipei is full of traditional markets, great museums, and blends history and modernity.
However, it can be tricky to figure out where to stay in Taipei. When you do not know the city, choosing the best area for you can be overwhelming.
This is why I have decided to write this guide on where to stay in Taipei.
After reading it, YOU will be an absolute expert on the city and will be able to decide where to stay in Taipei while staying relaxed.
Let’s no wait any longer and dive right in. Here is my guide on where to stay in Taipei.
- Where To Stay In Taipei
- Taipei Neighbourhood Guide
- 5 Best Neighborhoods To Stay In Taipei
- Zhongzheng – Where to Stay in Taipei your First Time
- Datong – Where to Stay in Taipei on a Budget
- Xinyi – Where to Stay in Taipei for Nightlife
- Wanhua – Coolest Place to Stay in Taipei
- Zhongshan – Best Neighbourhood in Taipei for Families
- FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Taipei
- Final Thoughts On Where To Stay In Taipei…
Need somewhere to stay in Taipei but don’t have much time? Here are my top recommendations.
Best Airbnb in Taipei: Charming Studio in Downtown Taipei
Located in the heart of Taipei City near Taipei main station is this cozy studio apartment that sleeps up to four guests. Unlike most apartments in Taipei, this apartment is spacious and bright with plenty of space to move around. It has been tastefully decorated with modern furnishings and comes with everything you need for a comfortable stay. Right in Zhongshan, you are just a few steps away from lots of the best restaurants, boutiques, cafes, and charm that you come to Taipei to see.
Best Budget Hotel in Taipei: DG Hotel
DG Hotel is centrally located in Datong and offers budget accommodation to travellers. The nicely decorated rooms are fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom and soundproofing. A free Wifi connection and an airport shuttle service are provided by the DG Hotel. The in-house restaurant also serves a good breakfast in the morning.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Taipei: The Tango Taipei Jiantan
The Tango Taipei Jiantan offers 4-star accommodation at a great price in the Shilin District. The centre of town is easily accessible with public transportation. Each room in the hotel is fitted with air conditioning, an ensuite bathroom with a spa bath, a flat screen TV and a view over the city.
Best Hostel in Taipei: First Hostel
First Hostel is centrally located in Taipei and easily accessible thanks to the MRT Taipower Building station. It offers single beds in 6-people dorm rooms with A/C. Each guest is provided with a locker, a bed light and a bed curtain for privacy. A free Wifi connection, laundry facilities and a tour desk can be used at the hostel.
If you love hostels, you should check out our list of the coolest hostels in Taipei!
First Hostel is one of our favourites in Taipei but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
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Zhongzheng
On the Taipei map, it is hard to be more centrally located than the Zhongzheng neighbourhood. Located on the bank of the Tamsui River, Zhongzheng is the city’s most important transport hub as this is where the main station is located.
Datong
Datong is the perfect place to stay if you are travelling on a shoestring budget. It is located just north of Zhongzheng and remains very central to explore everything the city has to offer.
Xinyi
Xinyi is the modern heart of Taipei. If what you expect from an Asian city is bustle, skyscrapers and lights, you will surely find your happiness here!
Wanhua
Wanhua is actually one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Taipei and has kept a historical feeling some other areas have long lost.
Zhongshan
Just a few years back, Zhongshan used to be the place where all visitors rushed to when coming to Taipei, and has the biggest concentration of hotels in the city.
Taipei, the main city on the Taiwan island, is a place full of contrasts. In Taipei, you can expect to find high rise buildings, modern neighbourhoods, but also traditional markets and old temples making it the best place to stay in Taiwan.
Xinyi is the hyper centre of the city and could be compared with New York’s Times Square. It is a modern area and hosts most of the city’s skyscrapers, such as the Taipei 101.
As a consequence, however, the area tends to be quite high-end and higher priced than the rest of the city. If you are ready to splurge a bit more on accommodation, Xinyi offers a lot of nightlife options.
Zhonzheng is a better place to stay if you are operating on a backpacker’s budget. While being hyper centrally located, Zhongzheng is less luxurious and more down-to-earth.
It also has a lot to offer in terms of culture and entertainment, explaining why it is one of the most popular areas for tourists to stay in Taipei. This is where you will find the imposing Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall and the Taipei Botanical Gardens.
To the North of Zhonzheng is the neighborhood of Datong, which is where you will find more affordable accommodation options. There are a ton of authentic restaurants in the area as it’s one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. It used to be the biggest commercial hub, now it’s more residential.
For a more of a hip vibe, Wanhua is the place to go. Urban explorers will love this area, where lots of budget and mid-range accommodation can be found. Wanhua looks a bit more like the Taipei of the past and boasts many authentic restaurants and a few interesting night markets. It is a great place to stay if you like a lively neighbourhood with a soul.
Finally, we have Zhongshan. This is where you’ll find the most amount of Taipei hotels suited to families and those wanting a bit more luxury in their life. Because of the amount of luxury hotels in this area, it’s not the best for those backpacking Taiwan.
5 Best Neighborhoods To Stay In Taipei
But you may still be wondering where to stay in Taipei. Let’s take a closer look at the city’s five best neighbourhoods!
On the Taipei map, it is hard to be more centrally located than the Zhongzheng neighbourhood. Located on the bank of the Tamsui River, Zhongzheng is the city’s most important transport hub as this is where the main station is located. As a consequence, when staying in Zhongzheng you will be able to access any part of Taipei relatively easily.
While in Zhongzheng, do not miss a visit to the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall and its surrounding gardens. People particularly like to come here to see the changing of the guard, happening every day on the hour between 9 and 5. Inside the building, you will also find a library, a museum dedicated to Chiang Kai-shek and exhibits about the history of Taiwan.
The Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is located on Liberty Square, one of the most iconic squares in Taipei. It is lined with impressive buildings which, even though some, whereas they give the impression of being 100 years old, have been completed during the 20th century.
Best Airbnb in Zhongzheng: Charming Studio in Downtown Taipei
Located in the heart of Taipei City near Taipei main station is this cozy studio apartment that sleeps up to four guests. Unlike most apartments in Taipei, this apartment is spacious and bright with plenty of space to move around. It has been tastefully decorated with modern furnishings and comes with everything you need for a comfortable stay. Right in Zhongshan, you are just a few steps away from lots of the best restaurants, boutiques, cafes, and charm that you come to Taipei to see.
Best Hostel in Zhongzheng: Taiwan Youth Hostel and Capsule Hotel
The Taiwan Youth Hostel and Capsule Hotel is centrally located near the city’s main railway station. The hostel offers private double rooms and single beds in dorm rooms accommodating between 4 and 24 people. Beds are fitted in individual pods for more privacy. Each pod is fitted with air conditioning, individual electronic safes, personal reading light, and a universal charging dock.
Best Budget Hotel in Zhongzheng: Morwing Hotel Culture Vogue
The Morwing Hotel Culture Vogue offers clean and comfortable individually designed rooms. Traditional rooms or bunk rooms are available. Each room is fitted with a private bathroom and air conditioning. Facilities in the hotel include a shared lounge, a 24-hour reception desk and a free Wifi connection.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Zhongzheng: Hotel Midtown Richardson
The Hotel Midtown Richardson is a four star hotel with a mid-range hotel price, making it in my opinion, one of the best Taipei hotels. The stylish and spacious rooms come with free wifi and a sizable bathroom, plus you’ll be staying in the heart of the Zhongzheng neighbourhood in Taipei. There is really nothing bad to say about this place, it’s ideal.
Things to see and do in Zhongzheng
- Watch the changing of the guard and take a stroll in the gardens at the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall. This is a must-do on any Taipei itinerary!
- Try some Taipei street food at the Najichang Night Market
- Look at the beautiful architecture on Liberty Square
- Explore a typical Taiwanese urban gallery at the Huashan 1914 Creative Park
- Learn about Taiwanese history at the National Taiwan Museum
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Learn More Now!Datong is the perfect place to stay if you are travelling on a shoestring budget. It is located just north of Zhongzheng and remains very central to explore all the leading attractions in Taipei
While many temples are located in the neighbourhood and many of them are worth taking a look at, two stand out. The Confucius Temple, the main hub of Confucianism in Taipei, strikes with it humble features and its austerity when compared to the city’s other temples.
On the contrary, the Bao’an Temple offers lots of ornaments and very intricate features you can spend hours looking at. It is less busy than other temples in Taipei, which is something I always appreciate. However, keep in mind this is not a tourist attraction but a place of worship that deserves respect!
Finally, the Ningxia Night Market offers the possibility to try some great street food in the evening.
Best Airbnb in Datong: Curated Art-Filled Loft Studio
This beautifully styled, carefully curated art space has to be one of the best places to stay in Datong. Being centrally located in the oldest neighborhood in Taipei, you can’t get anything better than this location. Although being in a fourth floor walk up building, it comes with a private entrance, has raised ceilings, and a magical outdoor city garden to sip your morning coffee in. It’s close to the MRT station, and the Ningxia night market. As a tourist you have to check out.
Best Hostel in Datong: CU Hotel Taipei Branch
The CU Hotel Taipei is branded as a hotel but offers hostel features with dormitory rooms. Dorms rooms are not mixed. Private rooms can also be booked at this location. Each room features air conditioning and access to a shared bathroom with hot showers. A free wifi connection is also provided.
Best Budget Hotel in Datong: Jian Shan Hotel
The Jian Shan Hotel offers comfortable rooms decorated in a vintage style in Datong. Each room is fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom, a flat screen TV and soundproofing. Heating is provided in the winter. A free wifi connection is available everywhere in the hotel and some of the rooms feature a private patio.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Datong: Play Design Hotel
The Play Design Hotel is a unique hotel in Datong with rooms furnished and decorated by Taiwanese designers. Each room is fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom, a flat screen TV and soundproofing. The hotel has 5 rooms and offers a cosy ambience where you feel at home.
Play Design Hotel is one of our favourites in Taipei but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to see and do in Datong
- Take a look at the humble features of the Confucius Temple
- On the contrary, marvel at Bao’an Temple, one of Taipei’s most ornate temples
- Try some local delicacies at the Ningxia Night Market
- Learn more about the contemporary Taiwanese art scene at the Museum of Contemporary Art Taipei
- Fill up on street food at the Shilin Night Market
- Head over to the Beitou hot springs and enjoy an onsen spa and watch the steam rise from the natural thermal outdoor pool
- Take a trip to the Yangmingshan National Park for some hiking or visit the hot springs from Taipei Main Station
Xinyi is the modern heart of Taipei. If what you expect from an Asian city is bustle, skyscrapers and lights, you will surely find your happiness here!
Xinyi’s landscape is dominated Taipei 101 which, at the time of its construction, was the tallest in the world. The world’s fastest elevator will take you to the very top in only 30 seconds, where the observation deck will offer an amazing perspective over the city.
In Taipei 101, make sure not to miss the world famous Din Tai Fung, a restaurant specialising in dumplings filled with a soup called xiaolongbao. There is usually quite a line to get in, but trust me when I say it is worth it and you will never look at your local Chinese restaurant the same after that!
If what you want is a quick escape from the bustle of the city, make sure to take the hike up Elephant Mountain.
Best Airbnb in Xinyi: Luxe Studio near City Hall
This luxurious studio in Xinyi has all the modern amenities you would need, plus additional bonuses such as 24 hour security guard and the cleanest interiors you could imagine, but at a fraction of the price! Up to three guests can enjoy this serviced apartment near City Hall, plus it is well connected near the MRT station, so you can get to everything; Night markets, World Trade Center, and restaurants that are open late for those late-night munchies after a night out!
Best Hostel in Xinyi: Formosa 101
Formosa 101 is a hostel located right next to the famous Taipei 101 skyscraper. It is a great choice if you want to go out and enjoy the nightlife as many bars and clubs are within walking distance. The hostel offers private and dorm rooms with either an ensuite or a shared bathroom.
Best Budget Hotel in Xinyi: Place X Hotel
Place X Hotel offers comfortable rooms with air conditioning and a private bathroom in Xinyi. Free toiletries, towels and slippers are also provided for guests. Family rooms accommodating up to 7 people can be booked, and an airport shuttle service is available on request.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Xinyi: Pacific Business Hotel
The Pacific Business Hotel is located a mere 5-minute walk away from Taipei 101, in the heart of Xinyi. It offers clean and comfortable rooms fitted with air conditioning, a private bathroom and a flat screen TV. Some rooms also feature a balcony with a city or mountain view.
Things to see and do in Xinyi
- Take the world’s fastest elevator to Taipei 101’s observation deck
- Try the iconic xiaolongbaos (dumplings filled with soup) at Din Tai Fung
- Get away from the city and hike the Elephant Mountain
- Visit Chinese former leader Sun Yat-sen MemorialImmerse yourself in contemporary art at the Taipei Fine Arts Museum
- Explore the National Palace Museum and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
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Buy an eSIM!Wanhua is actually one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Taipei and has kept a historical feeling some other areas have long lost.
The Red House is one of those examples from the past. It was built in 1908 during the Japanese occupation and used to be a covered market at the time. Today, it is used as a cultural centre where shows and exhibits are regularly organised. You can also attend a very special workshop where you will create your own souvenir!
The Longshan Temple is one of the most popular in Taiwan. It is its story that first drew the crowds, as the temple miraculously survived heavy bombings by the Allied forces during WWII, as it was believed to be a Japanese arm shelter.
While in Wanhua, make sure to check out Bopiliao Street, an old Taipei street which has been restored to give visitors a feel of what the city used to look and feel like decades ago.
Best Airbnb in Wanhua: Cosy studio for 4
Have this entire apartment to yourself, ideal for couples or small groups of friends traveling together. You will want to make yourself at home in this beautiful and modern studio. With the theater, bars, cafes, shops, beer gardens, department stores, restaurants, and activities that go on well into the night, this is a prime location to stay. Plus, you’ll be near to the MRT station that connects you to other parts of the city too.
Best Boutique Hotel in Wanhua: Your Hotel Taipei City
Your Hotel Taipei City offers nice and comfortable rooms within walking distance to Longshan Temple. Not all rooms have a window, which is common in Taipei, but feature spacious rooms, a private bathroom, a flat screen TV and a tea and coffee maker. The hotel also has a garden and provides a free Wifi connection.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Wanhua: WESTGATE Hotel Taipei City
The WESTGATE Hotel Taipei City offers luxurious accommodation at an affordable price in Wanhua, within walking distance to the Ximen MRT station. All rooms are fitted with a private bathroom, A/C, a flat screen TV with satellite channels and a free Wifi connection. The hotel provides access to a good fitness centre.
Best Hostel in Wanhua: Ximen Duckstay Hostel
The Ximen Duckstay Hostel is conveniently located within walking distance to a metro station and offers clean and comfortable dormitory bedrooms. Each dorm room is equipped with air conditioning. The hostel also offers free walking tours of the city, music performances and movie nights so you never feel alone!
Ximen Duckstay Hostel is one of our favourites in Taipei but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Things to see and do in Wanhua
- Check out local art at the Red House
- Visit Longshan Temple, the temple that resisted the WWII bombings
- Step back in time on Bopiliao Street
- Go shopping around Ximen
- Take a stroll down Shida Night Market and enjoy some street food
- Take a day trip to Juifen Village
Just a few years back, Zhongshan used to be the place where all visitors rushed to when coming to Taipei, and has the biggest concentration of hotels in the city. As a consequence, the neighbourhood is a bit fewer backpackers oriented and provides accommodation with a little more comfort and space, which can be ideal for families.
One of the main areas of interest in Zhongshan is the Taipei Expo Park, where several museums and attractions are located. There, you will, for example, find the Taipei Fine Arts Museum. It was the first museum built in Taipei for contemporary arts and still exhibits Taiwanese and international artists today.
The Taipei Story House is a historic Taiwanese mansion now serving as a small exhibition centre and a museum. Come here to learn more about the tea culture in Taiwan and the local history of Taipei!
Best Airbnb in Zhongshan: Immaculate Family Home
Right downtown, this place is hands down the best apartment to stay in for families. It’s super clean and has a tv for your little ones to watch cartoons as you get ready to see all the museums within walking distance. Besides the fact it’s in a safe, secure building with a lift, the surrounding area is THE spot for the modern art lovers who dig a chill environment with indie cafes. Plus, it’s super luxurious and incredibly affordable. No need to fork out for a luxury hotel afterall.
Best Hostel in Zhongshan: Taipei Discover Hostel
The Taipei Discover Hostel offers single beds in mixed or female only dorm rooms accommodating up to 10 people at the same time. Each bed is fitted with a personal reading lamp and a power socket, and the rooms are air-conditioned. The hostel also provides a free Wifi connection and a free breakfast.
Best Affordable Hotel in Zhongshan: Green World Hotel Sansui
The Green World Hotel Sansui offers simple and comfortable rooms fitted with A/C, a private bathroom, a flat screen TV and soundproofing. The hotel serves a good buffet breakfast in the morning, and the reception is open around the clock. Free Wifi is provided.
Best Mid-Range Hotel in Zhongshan: The Riviera Hotel Taipei
The Riviera Hotel Taipei is located just across the Taipei Expo Park and is a great base to go explore the neighbourhood’s museums and attractions. The rooms there are all fitted with A/C, a private bathroom with a bathtub, and a view over the surrounding city.
Things to see and do in Zhongshan
- Get familiar with the Taiwanese art scene at the Taipei Fine Arts Museum
- Take a walk along the Keelung River at the Dajia Riverside Park
- Learn more about tea at the Taipei Story House
- Take a look at the changing of the guards at the National Revolutionary Martyr’s Shrine
- Enjoy some bird watching at the Taipei Botanical Garden
FAQ about Finding a Place to Stay in Taipei
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Taipei and where to stay.
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Final Thoughts On Where To Stay In Taipei…
Taipei, the main city in Taiwan, surely has a lot to offer to its visitors. When setting foot in Taipei, prepare to be amazed by old temples, bustling night markets, great food, and shining skyscrapers.
Zhongzheng is my favourite area to stay in Taipei, especially if you are coming to the city for the first time, as it is super simple and everything is easy to access from there.
My favourite hotel, The Tango Taipei Jiantan, is located a bit further away in Shilin but offers great quality for the best price in Taipei.
If you are travelling on a backpacker’s budget, I can recommend the First Hostel. Centrally located, it keeps its dorm rooms small, clean and comfortable! If you’re planning on travelling around Taiwan, read our Best Hostels in Taiwan guide.
Have I missed anything? Let me know in the comments and enjoy your stay in Taipei!
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