Best Way to Spend One Day in Taipei – Longshan Temple, Taipei 101 Views, CKS Memorial Hall and Night Market 1 Day Tour (Private Taipei City Tour)
If you only have one day in Taipei, how can you make the most of it?
This carefully curated Taipei city tour is the perfect way to experience the city’s highlights in just one day. Your journey begins with a visit to Longshan Temple, one of Taipei’s most historic religious sites. Then, witness the impressive changing of the guard at the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a must-see national monument.
Next, enjoy a world-famous Taiwanese lunch at Din Tai Fung, home of the legendary xiao long bao (soup dumplings). Afterward, take in sweeping views of the capital from the top of the Taipei 101 Observatory. In the afternoon, explore the charming old streets of Dihua Street, known for its preserved architecture, traditional shops, and cultural atmosphere.
The tour ends conveniently at Ningxia Night Market, where you can dive into Taipei’s vibrant street food scene at your own pace.
This one-day Taipei itinerary is ideal for first-time visitors and time-pressed travelers who want to see the best of the city with the help of a friendly, knowledgeable guide.
Highlights of the Taipei City Tour
Longshan Temple: A Feast of Architecture & Folk Culture
Longshan Temple is one of the city’s most iconic and culturally rich religious sites. Built in 1738, this beautifully preserved temple showcases classic Taiwanese temple architecture and is dedicated to a mix of Buddhist, Taoist, and folk deities.
Visitors to Longshan Temple can immerse yourselves in traditional Taiwanese religious practices such as offering incense, drawing divination sticks (qian), and casting moon blocks (bwa bwei) to seek guidance from the gods. It’s not just a place of worship—it’s a unique cultural experience that offers deep insight into Taiwan’s spiritual heritage.
Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall: Uncover the History of Taiwan
A symbol of Taiwan’s modern history, the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is a must-visit attraction in Taipei. Set within Liberty Square, the impressive white structure and its blue-tiled roof reflect classic Chinese architecture and commemorate the life and legacy of former President Chiang Kai-shek.
Don’t miss the hourly guard changing ceremony, a striking and ceremonial performance that draws daily crowds. Inside, the memorial features exhibitions and displays that highlight significant chapters in Taiwan’s political development, from authoritarian rule to its emergence as a thriving democracy.
Ideal for those interested in Taiwanese history, politics, and culture, this landmark offers a deeper understanding of the island’s journey and transformation.
Skip the Line and Indulge in Din Tai Fung’s Famous Xiao Long Bao
No trip to Taipei is complete without a meal at Din Tai Fung, the world-renowned Taiwanese restaurant famous for its xiao long bao (soup dumplings). During this tour, you’ll enjoy a delicious lunch at Din Tai Fung, savoring expertly crafted dumplings and other signature dishes in a relaxed setting.
As one of the most popular restaurants in Taipei, Din Tai Fung often has long wait times, especially during peak hours. But when you join our tour, we help minimize your wait by arranging your visit in advance—giving you more time to explore and enjoy the day.
Taipei 101: Iconic Skyscraper and Engineering Marvel
As one of the tallest buildings in the world, Taipei 101 is a must-visit landmark in Taipei. This iconic skyscraper not only offers breathtaking panoramic views from its observation deck, but also stands as a testament to innovative engineering designed to withstand earthquakes and typhoons.
During our tour, you’ll ascend to the Taipei 101 Observatory to enjoy a stunning bird’s-eye view of the city. Here, you’ll also learn about the building’s advanced earthquake-resistant design, including its famous tuned mass damper that keeps the tower stable during seismic activity.
Dihua Street: Taipei’s Historic Old Street Turned Trendy Cultural Hub
Dihua Street is one of Taipei’s oldest and most charming neighborhoods, famous for its well-preserved historic architecture and vibrant traditional markets. Once a bustling trading center, this retro street has transformed into a modern hotspot filled with high-quality boutique shops, trendy cafes, and creative cultural stores.
Ningxia Night Market: Taipei’s Famous Foodie Destination
Ningxia Night Market is one of Taipei’s most popular night markets, renowned for its wide variety of authentic Taiwanese street food and snacks. From savory oyster omelets to the famous stinky tofu and bubble tea, this vibrant market offers a true taste of Taiwan’s culinary culture.
Our tour concludes at Ningxia Night Market, where the guide will first lead you on a short walking tour to introduce the must-try dishes and popular stalls. After this overview, you’ll have free time to explore and savor the delicious local flavors at your own pace.
Itinerary for the Taipei City Tour
09 : 00 Pick you up at your hotel in Taipei
* If you would like to start the tour from Taoyuan Airport or Keelung Port, please let us know. We can customize the itinerary to fit your arrival time.
09 : 30 Longshan Temple
11 : 00 Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall & the Changing of the Guard
12 : 30 Lunch at Din Tai Fung
13 : 30 Taipei 101 Observatory
15 : 30 Dihua Street
18 : 00 Drop you off at Ningxia Night Market
Tour Details
Minimum Numbers
4 adults
Availability
Daily departure (No tours during the Lunar New Year period.)
Meeting point
9 am at the lobby of the Taipei hotel you stay. * If you would like to start the tour from Taoyuan Airport or Keelung Port, please let us know in advance.
When to book
Book 3 days in advance
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes
Price
Adult (Over 6 years old)
4–5 travelers: USD 155 per person
6–9 travelers: USD 140 per person
10 or more travelers: USD 125 per person
Child (3 to 6 years old)
125 USD per person
Infant (0 to 2 years old)
Free of charge. (Please note that at least one adult must accompany any infant on the tour.)
Inclusion
Accommodation
None
Food
Lunch at Din Tai Fung
Admissions
Taipei 101 Observatory
Tour Guide
A great English speaking guide (All of our guides are fluent in Mandarin as well.)
Change to a Spanish-speaking guide available for an additional USD 250 per group
Transportation
4–7 people: 8-seater van
8–12 people: 20-seater minibus
Others
A bottle of mineral water, travel insurance and of course, memories that money can't buy!
Please note that tips for your tour guide are NOT included.
Contact us to Book the Taipei City Tour
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Looking for a customized, tailor-made Taiwan itinerary?
If you prefer a fully customized itinerary, feel free to fill out our Create Your Trip form, and one of our tour consultant will contact you to design your perfect trip.
Frequently Asked Questions for the Taipei City Tour
Why Choose Topology Travel’s Taipei City Tour?
While there are many similar tours available, most are large group experiences with 20 to 30 travelers. Such large groups can impact the quality of your trip, and delays caused by other guests might cut into your precious sightseeing time.
Our Taipei City tour is a private experience, allowing you, your family, or friends to enjoy the day at your own pace—without interruptions.
Plus, our tours are led by knowledgeable and passionate guides who go beyond just bringing you to the attractions. They’ll share fascinating local stories and insider tips, including must-try foods, making your journey truly memorable.
What’s the difference between a package tour and a customised tour?
Our package tours are thoughtfully designed by our travel specialists to highlight the best of Taiwan’s regions. If you don’t have the time to research and plan your trip, a package tour is a time-saving option that still lets you experience the most exciting and iconic parts of Taiwan.
Package tours come with a fixed itinerary and cannot be modified based on individual preferences. However, if you find a package you like but would like to make some adjustments—or if you’d prefer to design your trip from scratch—you’re welcome to contact us via TW@topologytravel.com or fill out our Create your Trip form.
We’ll be happy to personalise your itinerary, but please note that the pricing for customised tours will differ from standard package tours.
Is this Taipei itinerary suitable for children or seniors?
Yes, this tour is suitable for all ages.
Is this itinerary wheelchair accessible?
This tour is wheelchair-friendly. We typically use standard vehicles, but if you need an accessible vehicle equipped with a wheelchair lift, please feel free to contact us for arrangements.
If I’m arriving in Taipei by cruise ship, is this itinerary suitable for me?
This itinerary is perfect for travelers arriving at Keelung Port by cruise ship. We can adjust the schedule to fit your cruise arrival and departure times.
What if the minimum group size isn’t met? How can I still join the tour?
You can still join the tour by covering the cost equivalent to the minimum required number of participants.
If I have a fear of heights and don’t feel comfortable going up to the Taipei 101 observatory, what can I do?
No problem! You can spend the time at Taipei 101 freely exploring the shopping mall downstairs.
What if I have special dietary requirements—can the lunch menu be adjusted to accommodate my needs?
Yes, absolutely. If you have vegetarian, halal, or other special dietary needs, please let us know in advance, and we will make the necessary arrangements for you.
How to book this private Taipei City tour?
Please fill out the online form and our tour consultant will contact you. Your reservation will be confirmed once full payment is received.
What if I need to cancel my Taiwan tour?
For details, please refer to our Terms and Conditions.
What should I prepare before visiting Taiwan?
Please make sure to check whether you need a visa to enter Taiwan.
You can find up-to-date information on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website
If a visa is required, please apply according to the official government regulations