Itinerary

Taipei is a vibrant city with a rich blend of culture, food, and stunning sights, perfect for a fast-paced solo traveler like you. Let’s dive into a 6-day itinerary that’s budget-friendly and packed with adventure!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring Ximending

Morning:

• Arrive in Taipei and check into a budget-friendly hostel or guesthouse in the Ximending area. This area is lively and perfect for solo travelers.
• Grab a quick breakfast at a local bakery (try a pineapple bun or a Taiwanese egg crepe).

Afternoon:

• Explore Ximending, known as the “Harajuku of Taipei.” Check out the quirky shops, street art, and the famous Red House.
• Have lunch at a street vendor—try some beef noodle soup or braised pork rice.

Evening:

• Head to the Ximending Night Market for dinner. Sample local street food like stinky tofu, bubble tea, and fried chicken.
• Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and maybe catch a street performance!

## Day 2: Culture and History

Morning:

• Start your day with a visit to the National Palace Museum. It’s a bit of a trek, but the collection of Chinese artifacts is worth it. Entry is affordable, and you can spend a few hours here.

Afternoon:

• Head to Shilin Night Market for lunch (yes, it’s a night market, but it’s lively during the day too!). Try the oyster omelet and some sweet potato balls.
• After lunch, visit the nearby Shilin Residence, the former home of Chiang Kai-shek, for a peaceful stroll in the gardens.

Evening:

• Return to the city center and visit the Taipei 101 Observatory. The views are stunning, especially at sunset. Grab a cheap dinner at the food court in the basement of Taipei 101.

## Day 3: Nature and Temples

Morning:

• Take a morning hike at Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan). It’s a short but steep hike, and the views of Taipei are breathtaking. Perfect for some great photos!

Afternoon:

• After your hike, head to the nearby Taipei City Hall area for lunch. There are plenty of affordable eateries around.
• Visit the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park, a hub for design and art. It’s free to wander around and check out the shops.

Evening:

• Explore the Raohe Street Night Market. It’s one of the oldest night markets in Taipei. Don’t miss the pepper buns and the herbal pork soup!

## Day 4: Day Trip to Jiufen and Pingxi

Morning:

• Take a train to Ruifang Station and then a bus to Jiufen, a charming old mining town. Explore the narrow streets, tea houses, and stunning views of the coastline.

Afternoon:

• Have lunch at a local eatery in Jiufen (try the taro balls!).
• Afterward, head to Pingxi to release a sky lantern. You can write your wishes on it, and it’s a fun experience!

Evening:

• Return to Taipei and grab dinner at a local noodle shop. Try some beef noodles or dumplings.

## Day 5: Markets and Museums

Morning:

• Visit the Taipei Fine Arts Museum. It’s free and showcases contemporary art, which is a nice change of pace.
• Stroll through the nearby Yuanshan Park for some fresh air.

Afternoon:

• Head to the Ningxia Night Market for lunch. It’s smaller but has some of the best local snacks.
• Visit the Dihua Street area, known for its traditional shops and historic buildings. It’s a great place to pick up some souvenirs.

Evening:

• Explore the Ningxia Night Market again for dinner. Try the oyster vermicelli and some sweet treats!

## Day 6: Relax and Reflect

Morning:

• Take it easy and visit the Beitou Hot Springs. You can soak in the public hot springs for a small fee. It’s a great way to relax after a busy week!

Afternoon:

• Visit the Beitou Hot Springs Museum and learn about the history of the area.
• Have lunch at a local café in Beitou.

Evening:

• Head back to the city and enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant. Try some Taiwanese-style fried rice or a hearty bowl of beef noodle soup.
• If you have time, take a stroll along the Tamsui River waterfront to soak in the last views of Taipei.

Tips for Your Trip:

• Use the MRT for easy and cheap transportation around the city.
• Keep some cash handy for street food and small purchases.
• Don’t hesitate to chat with locals; they’re often friendly and can give you great tips!

Enjoy your adventure in Taipei! It’s a city that’s sure to leave you with unforgettable memories. Safe travels! 🌏✈️