Welcome to Taipei! Taiwan’s capital is a vibrant city where tradition meets modern energy. Whether you’re here for sightseeing, food, or shopping, you’ll find that one day just isn’t enough to take it all in. In this guide, we’ll take you through a perfect first-day itinerary featuring the iconic Taipei 101, the world-famous Din Tai Fung, and some must-buy local souvenirs.
📍Taipei 101 – A Landmark Experience
Your Taipei journey starts at the towering Taipei 101. Standing at 508 meters tall, it was once the world’s tallest skyscraper and remains one of the city’s most iconic sights. Inside, you’ll find a luxury shopping mall, exclusive Taiwanese gift shops, and a delicious food court.
What not to miss:
- The Observation Deck on the 89th floor offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city — especially beautiful at sunset.
- The high-speed elevator takes you from the ground to the top in just 37 seconds!
- Explore the B1 food court for a taste of local favorites.
🕒 Open daily from 11:00 AM to 9:30 PM (Observation deck until 9:00 PM)
🚇 Access: MRT Taipei 101/World Trade Center Station, Exit 4
🍽️ Din Tai Fung – Small Bites, Big Flavor
No trip to Taipei is complete without dining at Din Tai Fung. This Michelin-starred restaurant is world-famous for its delicate, juicy xiao long bao (soup dumplings). Each bite is a perfect balance of thin wrapper and rich filling.
Popular dishes:
- Xiao Long Bao (Pork Soup Dumplings)
- Crab Roe Soup Dumplings
- Stir-Fried Water Spinach
- Hot and Sour Soup
🕒 Open from 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM (varies by location)
📍 Flagship location: Near MRT Taipei 101 Station, Exit 4
⚠️ It’s a popular spot, so we recommend booking ahead or visiting right when it opens to avoid a long wait.
🎁 Must-Buy Souvenirs – Bring Home a Taste of Taiwan
To wrap up your visit, take some time to shop for souvenirs that capture the spirit of Taiwan. Taipei is full of cute, tasty, and beautifully designed gifts.
Recommended souvenirs:
- Pineapple Cakes – Try SunnyHills or Chia Te for top-quality pastries.
- Taiwanese Tea – High-mountain oolong and Oriental Beauty teas make elegant gifts; check out brands like Wang De Chuan or Geow Yong Tea (嶢陽).
- Dried Mango & Local Snacks – Widely available in supermarkets and at the airport.
- Stationery & Lifestyle Goods – Visit Eslite Bookstore or the historic Dihua Street for artistic finds.
🛍️ Great places to shop:
- Eslite Life (Nanjing/Xinyi branches)
- Dihua Street (near MRT Beimen or Daqiaotou Station)
- Taipei 101 gift shops
🌟 A Day to Remember in Taipei
Whether you’re traveling solo or with friends, Taipei has a way of leaving a lasting impression. From awe-inspiring views at Taipei 101, to unforgettable flavors at Din Tai Fung, to carefully chosen souvenirs — this one-day experience may just have you planning your next trip before you even leave.
Enjoy your time in Taipei — and let its charm stay with you long after your journey ends!
