Taipei Private Custom Tours with a Local: Highlights & Hidden Gems

Taipei , Taiwan (Republic of China)

Taipei Private Custom Tours with a Local: Highlights & Hidden Gems

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(70 reviews)

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About this experience

Discover Taipei as you would if you were staying with a friend who lived there, on this personalized experience with a Local Host. In just half a day you’ll experience the authentic side of Taipei as you visit famous attractions and discover hidden gems with a Local Host who knows and loves the city. Explore vibrant Taipei's highlights or discover an off-the-beaten-path neighborhood, get oriented and immerse yourself in Taipei’s unique culture with a Local Host by your side to navigate on your personalized route that’s been created just for you!

Available options

Taipei Private Custom Tours with a Local: Highlights & Hidden Gems

What's included

4 hours walking tour, exploring highlights and hidden gems

Hotel meet-up (available on request for central location)

Private and personalized walking tour with a passionate local

Detailed itinerary

Odds are, ambling down any street in Taipei would confront you with a million sights you’ve never seen before. Wouldn’t it be wonderful, in such an instance, to have somebody by your side to explain just what exactly is going on?

With a local Taipei host, you’ll have that as you explore this bustling, vibrant and ridiculously colorful city together. Tell them what interests you, and then stick around for the journey.

You might like to start your day with a traditional Taiwanese breakfast before heading to Liberty Square. From here, many of the famous attractions are accessible to you, and you can get your history (and Instagram) kicks by exploring one or many of the surrounding temples and buildings.

Stop 3 Pass by

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is a biggie! Ask your host about its political significance.

Travel back in time on Bopiliao Old Street - a relic from the Qing Dynasty,

You could catch a tangerine sunset at Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf.

Stop 6 Pass by

You could sample some beef noodles, pepper buns, flame-torched sausages and soup dumplings. Are you brave enough for stinky tofu? We reckon you are.

Stop 7 Pass by

Depending on the timing of your experience, you might like to check out the Shilin and Raohe night markets, climb Elephant Mountain for stellar views over the city, shop in trendy Ximending or get close to nature in Yangmingshan National Park.

Stop 8 Pass by

Learn all about ingredients you never knew even existed and immerse yourself in this steamy world of culinary brilliance. Some modern apartments are built without kitchens because the nation’s kitchen is outside on the streets.

Now that’s confidence in their street food scene.

Stop 9 Pass by

You might want to tick off some famous sights, like Bao’an Temple, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and Dihua Street, and let’s not forget that Taipei is all about street food.

In fact, so entrenched is this daily ritual into the fabric of life here, that some apartments are built without kitchens - sample some pork belly buns and bubble tea to see why this would make perfect sense!

Stop 10 Pass by

Your host will take care in mapping out a unique route for you which takes in the city's highlights as well as some hidden gems they know you’ll love

What's not included

Food and drinks

Transportation (primarily a walking experience however public transport may be used)

Tickets to any attractions

Gratuities (optional)

Available languages

Guide guide

CMN EN

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

20 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

50 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

After booking, you will receive a short questionnaire, so you’ll be able to tell us more about your interests and preferences. Based on your responses you’ll be matched with a like-minded Local Host

After booking, you can adjust the meeting point to fit your preferences with the help of our Experience Planners.

Meeting point

Your host will meet you at Song Shan MRT station exit 5. Alternatively, after booking, you can adjust the meeting point to fit your preferences with the help of our Experience Planners.

Important notes

We’ll be in touch within 24 hours after booking to find out more about your personality and interests so we can assign a like-minded local who will create a bespoke experience for you.

About Taipei

Taipei, the vibrant capital of Taiwan, is a fascinating blend of traditional culture and modern innovation. Known for its bustling night markets, towering skyscrapers, and lush green mountains, Taipei offers a unique urban experience with a rich cultural heritage.

Top Attractions

Taipei 101

Once the tallest building in the world, Taipei 101 is an iconic skyscraper and a symbol of modern Taipei. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck on the 89th floor.

Architecture/Observation Deck 1-2 hours NT$600-800 (observation deck ticket)

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

This national memorial hall is dedicated to Chiang Kai-shek, former leader of the Republic of China. The hall features a large museum, gardens, and a daily changing of the guard ceremony.

Historical/Memorial 1-2 hours Free (museum admission may vary)

Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan)

Elephant Mountain is a popular hiking spot offering one of the best views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline. The hike is relatively short and suitable for most fitness levels.

Nature/Scenic Viewpoint 1-2 hours (hike and sightseeing) Free

Shilin Night Market

One of the largest and most famous night markets in Taipei, Shilin Night Market offers a wide variety of street food, snacks, and shopping. It's a must-visit for food lovers.

Food/Market 2-3 hours Budget to moderate (depending on food and shopping)

Beitou Hot Springs

Beitou is known for its natural hot springs, offering a relaxing and rejuvenating experience. There are several public and private hot spring resorts to choose from.

Relaxation/Spas 2-3 hours Moderate to expensive (depending on the resort)

Must-Try Local Dishes

Beef Noodle Soup

A hearty soup made with tender beef, chewy noodles, and a rich, flavorful broth. It's considered Taiwan's national dish.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef and gluten (noodles).

Bubble Tea

A popular Taiwanese beverage made with tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls. It comes in various flavors and can be enjoyed hot or cold.

Drink Vegetarian (if made without dairy).

Oyster Omelet

A savory omelet made with fresh oysters, eggs, and a sweet and tangy sauce. It's a popular street food item.

Snack Contains seafood and eggs.

Stinky Tofu

Fermented tofu with a strong odor, usually deep-fried and served with pickled cabbage and sauce. It's an acquired taste but a must-try for adventurous eaters.

Snack Vegetarian (if made without meat-based broth).

Popular Activities

Hiking in Yangmingshan National Park Paragliding in Wuling Farm Visiting Beitou Hot Springs Tea tasting in Maokong Exploring historic temples and shrines Visiting museums and art galleries Kayaking in the Tamsui River Stand-up paddleboarding in Ximending

Best Time to Visit

October to December

This period offers pleasant weather with comfortable temperatures and clear skies, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. It's also the time for various festivals and events.

15°C to 25°C 59°F to 77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Mandarin Chinese
Widely spoken: English, Taiwanese (Hokkien), Hakka
English: Moderately spoken (in tourist areas and among younger generations)

Currency

New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)

Time Zone

GMT+8

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Taipei is generally a safe city with low crime rates. However, visitors should still take precautions to protect themselves and their belongings, especially in crowded areas and tourist spots.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport • 40 km from city center
Taipei Songshan Airport • 10 km from city center

By train

Taipei Main Station, Banqiao Station

By bus

Taipei Bus Station, Taipei City Hall Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

The Taipei Metro is clean, efficient, and easy to use. It operates from 6:00 AM to midnight and has both English and Chinese signage.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Taiwan Taxi App

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Ximending Daan Zhongshan

Day trips

Jiufen

40 km from Taipei • Half day to full day

A charming mountain town known for its narrow streets, tea houses, and historic sites. Jiufen is often compared to a smaller version of Tokyo's Golden Gai.

Yehliu Geopark

40 km from Taipei • Half day

A unique geopark featuring fascinating rock formations, including the famous Queen's Head, created by erosion over thousands of years.

Tamsui

15 km from Taipei • Half day to full day

A historic district at the mouth of the Tamsui River, known for its beautiful sunset views, historic sites, and vibrant night market.

Festivals

Taipei Lantern Festival • February (dates vary, typically around the Chinese New Year) Taipei Pride • Late October (dates vary) Taipei International Food Show • June (dates vary)

Pro tips

Use the EasyCard for convenient and discounted payments on public transportation, as well as for access to some attractions and shops.
Visit popular attractions, such as Taipei 101 and the National Palace Museum, early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
Explore the city's vibrant night markets, such as Shilin and Raohe, for an authentic and unforgettable culinary experience.
Take a day trip to nearby attractions, such as Jiufen, Yehliu Geopark, and Tamsui, to experience the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region.
Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your travel experience and connect with locals.