15 Must-Try Tours & Experiences In Taipei

Taipei offers a wealth of tours and experiences that cater to all kinds of travelers. Whether you’re after a custom private city tour that hits all the highlights or a food-focused adventure exploring local street eats, Taipei’s diverse options will keep you busy. One standout is the Full-Day Private Custom Taipei City Tour, which allows you to create a tailor-made itinerary with a knowledgeable local guide—perfect if you want to see the city’s landmarks on your own terms.

If you’re pressed for time but want to get a broad sense of northern Taiwan, the Full-Day Private Northern Taiwan Tour offers three route options, from Yehliu’s iconic sea erosion formations to Jiufen’s mountain streets. For food lovers, the Award-Winning Private Food Tour is a delightful way to taste Taiwan’s famous street snacks, with up to 10 tastings that cover classic dishes and local favorites.

Beyond city sights, Taipei shines in the natural scenery and cultural sites. The Taroko Gorge National Park provides a full day of exploring breathtaking marble canyons and waterfalls, while shorter options like the Half Day Private Tour to Jiufen, Shifen Waterfall & Pingxi Sky Lantern make the most of a few hours visiting charming old streets and launching sky lanterns. For those arriving on a layover or with a tight schedule, the Private Airport Layover Tour packs a lot into a few hours, including visits to Taipei’s top landmarks.

Whatever your interests, Taipei’s tours blend culture, scenery, history, and local flavor in ways that suit different travel styles. Now, let’s explore each experience in more detail.

1. Full-Day Private Custom Taipei City Tour

At number 1, the Full-Day Private Custom Taipei City Tour stands out for its flexibility and value. You create your own itinerary with a local guide, who helps you pick the best sites based on your preferences—be it the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Longshan Temple, or Dihua Street. The tour includes hotel pickup and private transport, making it a hassle-free way to see Taipei in just one day.

This tour is ideal for first-timers or those short on time who want a personalized experience. Reviewers praise guides like Vincent and Sean, who are both knowledgeable and attentive, and the ability to customize means you won’t be stuck seeing things you’re not interested in. The price of $126 per person offers good value considering the hassle-free logistics and private attention. The flexibility makes it perfect for travelers who want to focus on what interests them most.

Bottom Line: For a tailored, convenient, and insightful way to explore Taipei in a day, this private tour offers great value with highly personalized service.

2. Full-Day Private Northern Taiwan Tour from Taipei with Pickup

Number 2 on our list is the Full-Day Private Northern Taiwan Tour. This tour takes you beyond Taipei’s city limits to iconic sights like Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen Old Street, and Shifen Waterfall. You can choose between three routes, each designed to deliver a broader perspective on northern Taiwan’s landscapes and culture. The included hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off make this an easy way to pack a lot into one day.

Guests rave about guides like Junior and Vincent, who bring their local knowledge and friendly service to the experience. The tour’s flexibility, combined with the chance to skip the hassle of transportation logistics, makes it popular for visitors with limited time. With prices at $126 per person, you get a comprehensive day trip that balances scenery, history, and local flavor.

Bottom Line: If you want to see the highlights of northern Taiwan comfortably and efficiently, this customizable tour is a reliable choice.

3. The Award-Winning Private Food Tour of Taipei: The 10 Tastings

Number 3 is the Private Food Tour of Taipei, perfect for foodies eager to explore street eats and regional specialties. Over about three hours, you’ll sample up to 10 different dishes, from Taiwanese snacks to local delicacies at Dongmen Market and other spots. Your guide provides recommendations and insights, making this a delicious and educational experience.

This tour is highly rated, with reviews praising guides like Sonia and Eva for their knowledge and friendliness. For $90.61, you get an intimate, personalized exploration of Taipei’s vibrant street food scene. The focus on authentic bites and cultural stories makes it ideal for travelers wanting a culinary immersion without the hassle of figuring out where to eat.

Bottom Line: Perfect for foodies wanting a curated taste of Taipei’s street food, with expert guidance and a focus on authentic flavors.

4. 5-Day Best of Taiwan: Sun Moon Lake, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Hualien

Number 4 offers a comprehensive 5-day tour covering Taiwan’s major sights, from Sun Moon Lake to the east coast’s Hualien. Traveling by comfortable coach, you’ll see temples, shrines, hot springs, and scenic coastal areas. The tour includes four nights’ accommodation and daily breakfasts, providing a well-rounded experience of Taiwan’s diversity.

Guests love the organization, mentioning excellent guides like Ciao and Alan, and the quality hotels with private hot spring baths. At $715 per person, this tour is an investment in a thorough exploration of Taiwan, ideal for travelers wanting a deep dive into the island’s varied landscapes and cultural sites in one trip.

Bottom Line: If you’re after an in-depth, multi-day experience of Taiwan that combines scenery, history, and comfort, this tour delivers exceptional value.

5. Private Tour to Jiufen, Yehliu Geopark, and Pingxi

Number 5 is a private 8-hour tour focusing on northern Taiwan’s highlights. It covers Yehliu Geopark’s iconic rock formations, Jiufen’s mountain streets, and Pingxi’s sky lantern experience. The private vehicle and personalized guide ensure a relaxed pace and tailored experience.

Rated highly by travelers like those who appreciated the flexibility and local insights, this tour at $126 per person is well suited for those who want to pack the highlights into a single day without the stress of planning logistics. The built-in park admission fees keep things straightforward.

Bottom Line: For a flexible, all-in-one day trip exploring the best of northern Taiwan’s iconic sites, this private tour is a smart choice.

6. Small-Group: Yehliu, Jiufen & Pingxi Day Tour from Taipei

Number 6 offers a smaller group experience with around nine travelers, providing a more intimate feel. This 9-hour guided tour visits Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen Old Street, and Shifen Waterfall, emphasizing scenic beauty and local culture.

Guests comment on the friendly guides like Kevin and Julie, who provide rich explanations and personalized service. At $85 per person, it’s a budget-friendly way to see key sites with a more personal touch. The tour balances sightseeing with some flexibility, making it accessible for a wide range of travelers.

Bottom Line: Great for those wanting a smaller-group experience with lively guides while visiting the top northern sites.

7. 4-Hour Morning Cycling City Tour (incl. breakfast)

Number 7 is a 4-hour cycling tour that’s perfect for first-time visitors wanting to orient themselves. Starting with a traditional Taiwanese breakfast, you’ll pedal through historic streets, passing landmarks like Wenchang Temple, Taipei 101, and the Presidential Office Building.

Rated five stars, riders praise guides like Michael for their knowledge and friendliness. The small group size enhances the experience, and the bike ride covers more ground than walking. It’s a lively, active way to learn about Taipei’s history and architecture.

Bottom Line: For active travelers eager to see Taipei on two wheels, this bike tour offers a fun and efficient introduction.

8. Half Day Private Tour to Jiufen, Shifen Waterfall & Pingxi Sky Lantern

Number 8 is a 4-hour private tour designed for travelers wanting a quick but meaningful experience. It visits Jiufen’s old streets, the Golden Waterfall, and the Pingxi sky lantern activity—known for its charming tradition of releasing wishes into the sky.

Rated highly, travelers like Vincent and Jack appreciate the flexibility and personalized service. At $105 per person, it’s an excellent option if you’re short on time but want a taste of Taiwan’s cultural icons.

Bottom Line: For a condensed, personalized exploration that mixes scenery and cultural activities, this tour hits the spot.

9. Private Custom Taipei Airport Layover Tour

Number 9 is perfect for layovers or short visits. You get private chauffeur service from Taiwan Taoyuan Airport to Taipei’s highlights, including Taipei 101, Lungshan Temple, and Dihua Street. It’s a flexible, stress-free way to add Taipei to your itinerary.

Reviewers love the convenience and personalized nature, with guides like Paul and Vincent making the experience smooth and informative. At $126 per person, this tour offers a lot of value for those with limited time between flights.

Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers with tight schedules who want a hassle-free introduction to Taipei’s main sights.

10. Private Taroko Gorge National Park Day Tour

Number 10 takes you out of Taipei for a full day at Taroko Gorge, one of Asia’s most stunning natural wonders. With private transportation and a guide, you’ll explore marble canyons, waterfalls, and the Eternal Spring Shrine.

Rated highly, travelers appreciate the personalized attention and the ability to see the park’s highlights without the crowds. The $180 cost includes comprehensive sights and a tailored experience, perfect for nature lovers and those wanting a full day of outdoor exploration.

Bottom Line: If you’re craving dramatic scenery and a peaceful day in nature, this private tour is a memorable choice.

11. Taipei Historic Shared Walking Tour

Number 11 offers a three-hour walking tour through historic West Taipei, covering Longshan Temple, Bopiliao Historic Block, and Ximen Red House. The small-group format and engaging guides like Amy and Fu make it a lively, educational walk.

At just $5, it’s a budget-friendly way to learn about Taipei’s past—perfect for history buffs who prefer walking and local stories. The tour emphasizes Taiwan’s evolution from Qing dynasty times to modern urban life.

Bottom Line: Great for those interested in a deep dive into Taipei’s history with an affordable, guided walk.

12. Private Car: 8 Hour Highly Customized Taipei City Exploration!

Number 12 is a fully customizable private tour. For around $159, you pick the sights you want to visit, from Taipei 101 and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial to local neighborhoods like Dihua Street. Your guide and private vehicle make it easy to tailor your day.

Rated highly, travelers like those who appreciate flexibility and personalized attention highlight guides like Jennifer and Joseph. This is best suited for travelers who want to prioritize specific sites or have particular interests.

Bottom Line: For maximum flexibility and a personalized experience, this private tour provides a tailored, comfortable way to explore Taipei.

13. Xiao Long Bao, Beef Noodles & Boba Tea Cooking Class in Taipei

Number 13 is a hands-on cooking class where you learn to make traditional Taiwanese dishes like Xiao Long Bao, beef noodle soup, and bubble tea. Led by experienced instructors, it lasts about three hours.

Rated highly, participants praise the engaging hosts like Angela for their professionalism and friendliness. For $89, you leave not only with new cooking skills but also with a recipe book and memorable moments.

Bottom Line: Perfect for culinary enthusiasts eager to bring authentic Taiwanese flavors home, this class offers fun, education, and tasty results.

14. Full-Day Private Custom Keelung Shore Excursions

Number 14 offers a customized day trip from Keelung port. You choose between visiting the National Palace Museum, Chiufen, or Taipei 101, with private transportation and flexible itinerary.

Rated positively, travelers appreciate the flexibility and personal service, with guides like Vincent and James making the experience smooth. It’s ideal for cruise passengers who want to see Taipei’s highlights without the hassle.

Bottom Line: For cruise travelers or those on a tight schedule, this private, flexible tour offers a tailored and comfortable way to explore.

15. Shilin Night Market Walking Tour With a Private Tour Guide

Number 15 is an intimate 2-hour night market tour. Led by your private guide, you’ll navigate Shilin Night Market’s best stalls, sampling local snacks and learning about Taiwan’s street food culture.

Rated five stars, travelers like May and Jason appreciate the personalized tips and insider knowledge, making the experience more meaningful. For just $35, it’s an affordable way to enjoy Taipei’s lively night scene.

Bottom Line: If you want a relaxed, personalized introduction to Taipei’s famous night market, this short tour is perfect.

How to Choose Your Perfect Taipei Tour

When selecting among these tours, consider your budget, time constraints, interest areas, and walking or activity levels. For example, if you’re a foodie eager for authentic street bites, the Award-Winning Private Food Tour offers an immersive experience. If scenery and nature call, the Taroko Gorge gives a full day of outdoor beauty.

For a fully personalized experience, the Full-Day Private Custom Taipei City Tour and Private Car: 8 Hour Highly Customized Taipei City Exploration! are excellent choices. Budget travelers or those wanting a quick cultural fix might prefer the Taipei Historic Shared Walking Tour or the Shilin Night Market Guided Tour.

Booking early is advised, especially during peak seasons or holidays, to secure your spots on popular tours like the Full-Day Private Northern Taiwan Tour. Remember, a good tour can turn a good trip into a memorable adventure.

From cultural walks and scenic day trips to culinary delights and personalized city explorations, Taipei’s tour scene offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re after a quick glimpse or an immersive experience, choosing the right tour will make your visit truly unforgettable.