Where to Stay in Taipei → 7 BEST Areas in 2024 (w/Map)

Visiting Taipei? I’m super happy for you! If you want to learn more about where to stay in the city, you came to the right place!

I’ve recently been to Taipei (and have fallen in love with the city’s vibe!) – where I’ve stayed in numerous different areas in the city and had a chance to explore the rest! Now it’s my turn to be your travel planner gal and help you decide where to stay in Taipei!

Taipei is not small, so I made a nice round-up of 7 best tourist-friendly areas to stay in Taipei (and explained why you would like it for each of them). 

The best area to stay in Taipei for first-timers is Zhongzheng (Taipei Main Station). Here, you will be in the middle of the action and within walking distance of the tourist attractions! Plus, it’s the type of area fit for all types of travelers, from families to couples and backpackers!

I have also manually compared pretty much all hotels and apartments in the city and hand-picked the best top-rated ones and sorted them by price. This way no matter you budget and interests, you will be able to find your ideal place in just a couple of clicks!

Before we start, since I’ve seen how hectic Taipei can get during the season, I strongly recommend you book your hotel in advance to secure the best deals!

Quick Picks for Your Stay…

Here are the best hotels in Taipei city center:

• Best luxury hotel: Hotel Resonance Taipei
• Best mid-range hotel: Via Hotel Taipei Station
• Best budget hotel: Taiwan Youth Hostel

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Watch my video, it will give you a visual explanation of all the areas:

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Which area should you choose?

This Taipei map features all the districts I’ll be talking about in this article:

Okay, but how to choose the right district for YOU? From the upscale Xinyi to the lively Zhongshan, there’s something for everyone in Taipei!

There are 12 different Taipei districts, but below, I have selected the ones that are relevant and interesting for travelers, especially for those visiting the city for the first time.

• Top area for first-timers: Zhongzheng
• Where to stay in Taipei for luxury: Xinyi / Taipei 101
• Where to stay in Taipei for families: Zhongshan
• Best area to stay in Taipei for budget travelers: Datong
• Where to stay in Taipei for shopping: Ximending and Xinyi
• Where to stay in Taipei for foodies: Da’an
• Where to stay in Taipei for nightlife: Ximending and Zhongzheng
• Where to stay for hot springs: Beitou

Now that you understand a bit better how this city is organized, let me tell you everything you need to know about the 7 best neighborhoods in Taipei.

1. Zhongzheng (Main Train Station) – for first-timers

Zhongzheng District is where to stay in Taipei for first-timers! It’s the heart and soul of the city and the best spot for exploring the capital, especially if you’re interested in culture and history. It’s also the central transportation hub, with the Taipei Main Station being here. 

This district is right on the banks of the Tamsui River, and some of the highlights here include Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (don’t miss the changing of the guards!), Taipei Botanical Gardens, Nanjichang Night Market, Nanmen Market, and the historic 2/28 Peace Park (symbol of Taiwan’s independence movement). 

The National Taiwan Museum, Taipei Expo Park with several museums, and Huashan 1914 Creative Park (once a winery, now a badass event venue) are also located in the area.

In terms of accommodation, you can find everything your heart desires in Zhongzheng, from luxurious 5-star hotels to hostels and guest houses perfect for backpackers.

PRO TIP: Pick an accommodation near the Taipei Main Station to make commuting a breeze (SO important!).

Luxury (US$150 and up)

• Hotel Resonance Taipei – The 4-star Tapestry Collection Hotel by Hilton is your ultimate luxury destination with a spa and wellness center, on-site parking, excellent continental breakfast, and fabulous modern rooms.
• MGH Mitsui Garden Hotel – A fantastic 4-star hotel just next to the metro station, featuring comfortable and modern rooms, extremely helpful staff, and a very nice breakfast! The hotel lies on Zhongxiao East Road, one of the city’s main artery roads!

Mid-range (US$90 – US$150)

• Cosmos Hotel Taipei – A great mid-range hotel that’s located right in the heart of the district, very close to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial and 2/28 Peace Park. You’ll get a 4-star service and plenty of excellent facilities and amenities like a fitness center, airport shuttle, and an on-site bar!
• Via Hotel Taipei Station – A simple hotel with a convenient location near the Taipei Main Station and just 5 minutes away on foot from the 2/28 Peace Park! They offer comfortable rooms, airport shuttle on request, and daily housekeeping.

Budget (up to US$90)

• Taiwan Youth Hostel & Capsule Hotel – Stay in a budget hostel within walking distance of the Taipei Main Station! Besides a great location, this hostel also has clean, private rooms, dorm rooms, and very good service!
• Taipei Sunny Hostel – This excellent hostel has air-conditioned dorm rooms with bunk beds and incredible rates! They offer daily housekeeping, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi across the property!

2. Zhongshan – where to stay in Taipei with a family

Zhongshan is only 1 MRT station away from Zhongzheng, and it’s the best district in Taipei to stay with a family. You’ll find plenty of accommodation options here, including famous chains like Okura or Regent!

“Lucy” (the 2014 movie) starring Scarlett Johansson and Morgan Freeman was filmed in the Regent Hotel in Zhongshan!

While you’re around the area, check out attractions like the Taipei Fine Arts Museum, the Taipei Story House (historic mansion), the scenic National Revolutionary Martyrs’ Shrine, and the iconic Xingtian Temple (A MUST!)!

You can enjoy Yinping Riverside Park with the whole family, grab a bite at the local morning and night markets, or take the kids to the Miramar Ferris Wheel!

Here, you’ll also find the Songshan business subdistrict, also known as the “Wall Street of Taipei.” It’s a nice area to explore in the morning or the afternoon, especially the Raohe Street Night District!

Luxury (US$180 and up)

• The Grand Hotel – A beautiful 5-star palace-like building where you’ll feel spoiled and relaxed in an outdoor pool, beautiful rooms, and 4 on-site restaurants! They even offer a free shuttle bus to the MRT station!
• Regent Taipei – One of the best luxury hotels in Taipei, located very close to Yanping Riverside Park and other important attractions in this district. A rooftop pool, marble private bathrooms, and a wellness center are just some of the advantages of staying here!

Mid-range (US$70 – US$180)

• Royal Inn Taipei – This hotel has bright, spacious, and super clean private rooms! The hotel is close to multiple attractions like the Taipei Botanical Garden, the National Taiwan Museum, and The Museum of Contemporary Art! 
• Dandy Hotel Tianjin Branch – Here’s another great place to stay close to the area’s main attractions. This Dandy Hotel Tianjin Branch awaits a terrace, a tour desk, family rooms with air conditioning, flat screen TV, and more!

Budget (up to US$70)

• Link World Hotel – Here’s one of the best places to book a room in case you’re traveling on a super tight budget! This is one of Taipei’s best inns, and it awaits with free Wi-Fi, room service, flat screen TV, and an airport shuttle service!
• Taipei Discover Hostel – An excellent choice if you want to stay near Xingtian Temple and even Ningxia Night Market. This super cool 4-star hotel has perfect economy and spacious rooms with free Wi-Fi!

Click here to get a FREE full list of Taipei travel resources!

3. Ximending (Ximen) – for shopping and nightlife

Ximending (also called “Ximen,” pronounced as sheemen) is a popular shopping and entertainment area in Taipei’s Wanhua district. It’s the edgiest and most youthful area in Taiwan’s capital, featuring pedestrian-only streets, karaoke bars, late-night piercing studios, and all kinds of quirky shops!

The area can get quite noisy, especially at night, and it’s often compared to Harajuku or Shinjuku in Tokyo! If you’re wondering where to stay in Taipei for nightlife, you’ve found your spot! You’ll be surrounded by plenty of restaurants, bars, clubs, and shops at all times.

Ximending has a thriving LGBT scene, and it’s also one of the best places in town to try street food!

In terms of attractions, let me just name a few: Ximending Night Market, Huaxi Street Night Market, also known as Snake Alley (yep, there are TONS of night markets in Taipei!), Taipei Cinema Park, and the Longshan Temple or Tianhou Temple.

Finally, you’ll also be one metro station away from Taipei Main Station – a great advantage!

Below, you can find my hand-picked hotels in Ximending for your stay:

Luxury (US$160 and up)

• Caesar Metro Taipei – One of Taipei’s best luxury hotels located a 5-minute walk from all the essential area attractions, including Longshan Temple and the Taipei Main Station. This 5-star hotel in Taipei awaits with flawless service, leisure facilities, and fabulous staff.
• Taipei Garden Hotel – A 5-star upscale hotel with an on-site fitness center, a spa and wellness center, an on-site restaurant, and more! The location is super close to Taipei Main Station!

Mid-range (US$90 – US$160)

• CitizenM Taipei – CitizenM has all the facilities and amenities you might need for a pleasant stay, including a 24/7 bar, daily housekeeping, AC, and private rooms with city views.
• Cho Hotel – The best mid-range hotel located close to Longshan Temple! You can do some Ximending shopping or hop on a train at the Taipei Main Station from here. The rooms are super clean and cozy, and each has a private bathroom!

Budget (up to US$90)

• Energy Inn – This cute budget inn is the perfect choice if you want to be within walking distance of countless great food places, the night market, shops, and the Taipei Main Station! Of course, it also has comfortable rooms with free Wi-Fi!
• Wonderwall Ximending – This affordable place has tons of attractions nearby, an on-site bar, facilities for guests in wheelchairs, and ACs in all rooms. They also have free cancellation in case you make changes to your plans!

4. Da’an – where to stay in Taipei for foodies

Da’an is an excellent neighborhood overall, but I wholeheartedly recommend it to all the foodies! It’s the best place to explore the fantastic Taiwanese gastronomy in all food places – from night markets to world-class restaurants (such as Din Tai Fung and similar dumpling restaurants)!

Da’an (located very close to Xinyi) is also called the “lungs” of Taipei, so I recommend it to those looking for a breath of fresh air! Why? Da’an Park is located here (a huge park, oftentimes compared to Central Park in New York)!

Da’an is also considered an expat area, so you’ll find tons of international restaurants around! It is also very close to Taipei 101 (less than 10 min by metro with a direct line. 

While you’re here, pay a visit to Shida Night Market and Tonghua Night Market. I also recommend visiting the Taipei Grand Mosque and Yongkang Street, where you’ll find nice and reasonably priced antique shops, cafés, and dessert places! 

Plus, you’ll always be connected to the rest of the city if you stay close to an MRT station. 

If the kids would like to see Taipei Zoo, you can take them as it’s super close, just in the nearby Wenshen District!

Luxury (US$200 and up)

• Dandy Hotel Da’an Park – This modern property offers flawless service and rooms, and its location is perfect – close to Da’an Forest Park, Shida Night Market, Tonghua Night Market, and Yongkang Street!
• Swiio Hotel Da’an – Set in a picture-perfect white building with geometric designs, this stunning hotel offers beautiful rooms with a city view, free breakfast, and very comfortable beds!

Mid-range (US$100 – US$200)

• NiHao Café Hotel – Stay near the Taipei Main Station in one of the best hotels in Taipei for couples! They have an on-site restaurant, an exceptional breakfast, and the cutest mini rooms with a garden view.
• Green World ZhongXiao – Here’s another super good option close to Da’an Park and other unmissable spots in the neighborhood. It awaits with a 4-star service, free Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, a 24-hour desk, and other advantages!

Budget (up to US$100)

• Dongmen 3 Hostel – For all those travelers looking for a perfect budget option located right in the heart of the Da’an district – this one is for you! This nice hostel has capsule rooms, a shared seating area, and shared bathrooms. Everything here is spotlessly clean!
• Star Hostel Taipei East – A top-rated 1-star hotel with a cozy atmosphere, set in one of Taipei’s hippest areas. You can meet fellow travelers on the 1st floor (which was purposely redesigned as a hangout), enjoy their fabulous breakfast, and have a good night’s sleep in comfy beds.

5. Xinyi District / Taipei 101 – where to stay for luxury

If you’re a business traveler going to Taipei City or are looking for upscale hotels in the city (or looking to stay with the view to the iconic tower!), then Xinyi district is definitely the area for you! 

Xinyi (pronounced sheenyee) is the district where the World Trade Center and Taipei 101 Tower are located. The Observation Deck at the Tower has some of the best views of Taipei and it’s one of the highlights of the city, so make sure you include it in your itinerary!

Taipei 101 Tower used to be the tallest building in the world until 2010 (508 meters) when it was dethroned by the Burj Khalifa in Dubai!

Except for Taipei 101, other important sights in this district include Shin Kong Mitsukoshi Xinyi Place (for shopping), Tonghua Night Market, and Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall (dedicated to the founding father of the Republic of China, a country that used to exist from 1912-1949).

From luxury goods to fine dining restaurants to expensive hotels, everything about Xinyi screams luxury!

This is the right neighborhood if you’re hungry for boutique shops, shopping malls, and Taipei nightlife spots! 

Elephant Mountain, a lovely public hiking trail is nearby as well, so you can go explore it while you’re here! 

PRO TIP: Visit the Elephant Mountain during the sunrise or sunset for captivating views!

Luxury (US$180 and up)

• W Taipei – This 5-star hotel is located very close to Taipei 101, and some of the best things about staying here include superb views of the city and world-class service! Feel like royalty in their spa and wellness center, swim in the pool, or hang out in the on-site bar!
• Grand Hyatt Taipei – One of my favorite luxury hotels close to Taipei 101 and the Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall! Grand Hyatt Taipei is a 5-star hotel that has a spa and wellness center, an outdoor pool, and many other luxury facilities you’ll love!

Mid-range (US$90 – US$180)

• Members Hotel at Taipei 101 – A modern hotel offering very good value for the money, located near Taipei 101 and an MRT station. Members Hotel has super nice decor and clean rooms that can fit up to 4 guests.
• The Tango Hotel Taipei XinYi – Here’s another excellent option in this upscale district, located very close to a subway line and the Taipei World Trade Center. This 4-star accommodation has a fitness center, a business center, and more fancy amenities!

Budget (up to US$90)

• Just Inn Taipei – One of the few budget options in Xinyi has Budget Double Rooms with AC, flat screen TV, free toiletries, and daily housekeeping. They also have an on-site bar and a 24-hour front desk.
• Formosa 101 – This hostel has clean and comfy dorm rooms, perfect for a good night’s sleep after a full day of exploration! It’s a solid hostel that I mostly recommend for solo travelers since everything seems to be small, from beds, to toilets, to the breakfast venue.

6. Datong – where to stay in Taipei on a budget

Are you traveling to Taipei on a tight budget? No worries, Datong, located right near Zhongzheng, is one of the most budget-friendly areas with plenty of budget accommodation!

This area has plenty of exciting sights and activities that you can do, including a visit to the Contemporary Art Museum Taipei (MOCA), Confucius Temple and Bao’an Temple, shopping at Ningxia Night Market or Dalong Night Market, taking a stroll on the beautiful Dihua Street and admiring the Japanese buildings, and more!

Dihua Street in the Dadaocheng District is Taipei’s oldest street – it was built back in the 1850s!

Datong is not as popular as Zhongzheng or Xinyi, so you’ll encounter less tourists here – which means it is more authentic and it’s the perfect choice if you want a calmer area while still being close to the main attractions in the city center!

Scroll down to find the best hotels in Datong that I hand-picked for all types of budgets:

Luxury (US$170 and up)

• Palais de Chine Hotel – This superb 5-star accommodation awaits a well-equipped fitness center, a bar, and an on-site restaurant. It’s the only luxury hotel in Datong district, and it has a convenient location near Taipei Bus Station and Taipei Main Station. This is also the only luxury hotel I could find in Datong.

Mid-range (US$90 – US$170)

• CityInn Hotel Taipei Station Branch III – Presenting the best mid range hotel near Taipei Main Station and Ningxia Night Market! All rooms are equipped with free snacks, free Wi-Fi, and flat screen TV.
• Meander 1948 Hostel – Meander 1948 Hostel offers free Wi-Fi, clean dorm rooms, a terrace, a delicious breakfast, and more. Plus, it’s located on a road that has a super good location in this neighborhood near Ningxia Night Market!

Budget (up to US$90)

• Old Door Hostel & Bar – One of the best budget hotels in this area and beyond! Old Door offers cozy dormitory rooms at excellent rates and location (super close to Huaxi Street Night Market), as well as free Wi-Fi, a bar, and a delicious breakfast served each morning.
• Jian Shan Hotel – Situated near the historic Dihua Street, this hotel offers compact standard rooms with free Wi-Fi. It’s a perfect stay for solo travelers and backpackers, and it’s within walking distance from the metro station.

7. Beitou District – where to stay in Taipei for hot springs

Beitou is Taipei’s hot spring village accessible by MRT, so it’s a perfect getaway from the city’s hustle and bustle! If your primary interest is relaxation, hot spring baths, and nature, then consider staying in Beitou! You’ll be less than 30 minutes from the Taipei Main Station and Downtown Taipei.

Everywhere you go, you can enjoy onsen baths and private hot springs, and there’s even a Hot Springs Museum you can check out to learn more about the area.

I would not recommend staying in Beitou if you are in the mood for sightseeing and active exploration of Taipei because you would spend quite some time on the road every day, but if you are specifically looking to stay near the hot springs and just chill after a long trip, this is absolutely perfect!

I absolutely LOVED my time there and only wished I had at least a couple more days to stay specifically there. 

You’ll find plenty of Japanese buildings in the Beitou District since the springs were initially developed by the Japanese!

You can even make a short trip to the Yangmingshan National Park as it’s less than 6 km away!

Also, the Shilin area nearby is home to the National Palace Museum, a must-visit for Chinese art aficionados! It’s also a good spot for families, so be sure to check it out if you need more ideas.

Luxury (US$170 and up)

• Asia Pacific Hotel Beitou – Fancy a private hot spring in your room? Then book this hotel! The 5-star property also has an indoor pool, a spa and wellness center, an on-site restaurant, a complimentary breakfast, and super modern rooms.
• Hotel Royal Beitou – This stunning 5-star hotel comes with a hot spring bath, a fitness center, fabulous spacious suites, and the most polite staff! There’s an on-site restaurant for you to enjoy a meal, while breakfast is already included in the price!

Mid-range (US$90 – US$170)

• Aqua Bella Hotel – Excellent value for money at this 4-star hotel includes Italian-style rooms, hot spring baths, and a beauty spa! The hotel is conveniently located only a 5-minute walk from the subway, so you can easily get to any part of Taipei from here, making sightseeing a breeze. 
• Kyokusi Hotspring Hotel – If you appreciate hiking and hot spring baths, this hotel has the perfect location! The rooms have all the basic amenities like flat screen TV, bed linen, a private bathroom, and a refrigerator.

Budget (up to US$90)

• On My Way – An affordable hostel in Taipei City’s Beitou District with a cool shared lounge, parquet floors, and just 8 minutes on foot from the hot spring area. The toilets and bathrooms are shared!
• Great Family Hotel – This cozy budget hotel offers compact rooms for 2 guests, and it’s just 500 m away from the Hot Springs Museum. The rooms come with nice green views and flat screen TV! If you’d like to take a hot spring bath, the Thermal Valley is nearby, too!

Best apartments in Taipei

If you’re the type of traveler who prefers the homey, cozy feeling of staying in an apartment instead of a hotel room, I have good news for you – Taipei is full of excellent places to choose from!

I have grouped the best apartments across Taipei according to budget:

Luxury (US$100 and up)

• Sunshine Apartment – A superb place in the best location to stay in Taipei! The apartment is just enough for 4 guests, but it’s top-rated for couples. There’s an airport shuttle service and on-site parking in case you plan on renting a car.

Mid-range (US$30 – US$60)

• Happy101 – A great apartment near Taipei Main Station, featuring all the basic amenities, 3 double beds, and room for up to 8 people. The closest public transport station is only 170 m away!
• Cozy Space – A cozy and luxurious place in the central district for up to 8 guests. It has that home away from home vibe, and it’s only 4 km away from the Songshan airport!

Budget (up to US$30)

• JAN City Center 2 Rooms – This 2-BR apartment is located within walking distance from the metro station, and it’s close to Tower 101 and other attractions in the area. It’s a modern apartment with colorful décor, and it can fit up to 6 guests.

👑 Luxury price:	$200
💵 Mid-range:	$140
🛏️ Budget:	$90
📍 Best area:	Zhongzheng
🛎️ Best luxury hotel:	Hotel Resonance Taipei
🧳 Best mid-range hotel:	Via Hotel Taipei Station
👛 Best budget hotel:	Taiwan Youth Hostel

BONUS: Best hotels near the Taipei airports

Taipei has two airports. The Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is around 40 km from Taipei Main Station (30-50 minutes by car), and Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) is only 6 km from the central station (15-20 minutes by car).

Should you have an early or late flight or are staying on a layover, I picked the best hotels near both airports and sorted them by budget for your convenience:

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport

If you want to sleep at the airport, the only place I recommend is the CHO Stay Capsule Hotel in Terminal 2. The Backpackers’ Hostel is okay if you’re light on budget and absolutely need to stay at the airport, but otherwise, it’s not my top choice. 

Now here are my top recommendations for hotels near the airport:

• Luxury: Novotel Taipei Taoyuan International Airport – A 5-star hotel less than 2 km from the airport, featuring a 24-hour front desk, an indoor pool, and a free airport shuttle. They also have family rooms!
• Mid-range: Hotel Orchard Park – A nice hotel just a short drive from the airport, perfect for a good night’s sleep! Plus, they offer a free airport shuttle. 
• Budget: City Suites – Here’s a good budget option just 500 m from the airport, offering a complimentary breakfast and a 24-hour front desk. Slightly lower rated than I’d like, with most complaints being about windowless rooms and no stores nearby. This shouldn’t be an issue if you’re only planning a short stay, though!

Taipei Songshan Airport

• Luxury: Mandarin Oriental Taipei – One of the best luxury hotels located only 750 m from the airport awaits flawless service, a 24-hour front desk, and an airport shuttle.
• Mid-range: CityInn Hotel – A mid-range hotel with superb decor and excellent prices – plus a perfect location, 1.3 km from the airport.
• Budget: Hub Hotel – Located just outside of the airport, Hub Hotel offers modern rooms on a high floor, an airport shuttle, and luggage storage.

FAQs about lodging in Taipei

Conclusion

There you go, my dear reader! Hopefully, my article helped you decide where to stay in Taipei! I cherish my time in this beautiful city so much and I truly hope you’ll have the same pleasant experience as me!

In this post, I have told you everything you need to know about the 7 best neighborhoods in Taipei, with hand-picked hotel recommendations for each. If you’re still indecisive about where to stay, here are my top choices: 

• Grand Hyatt Taipei – one of the best luxury hotels in Taipei with spacious rooms just next to the brilliant Taipei 101 Tower
• CitizenM Taipei – an excellent choice in the Ximeding Shopping Area with select rooms that have a charming river view

That’s it! Just please remember to book your Taipei hotel ASAP to secure the best rooms, and you’ll be good to go!

If you have any questions or need more help planning your trip, let me know in the comments below! I’ll be happy to help!

Happy travels,

Yulia

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