Top Free Things to Do in Taipei

Traveling in Taiwan is a joy for the budget-conscious. However, the capital city of Taipei can challenge your ability to tour cheaply if you don’t know where to look. Moreover, public transportation is affordable, as is the street food available at every turn. Nevertheless, the main attractions often come with higher price tags. Therefore, here’s how to explore the capital’s best corners without spending much.

1. Ride the Riverside Bikeway from Xindian to Tamsui

The easiest of Taipei’s bicycle routes lies along the city’s southeast-northwest axis, following a designated river path almost the entire way. With a bustling city and many scooters, the riverside offers a peaceful escape, along with open green spaces and beautiful views of the city.

Bitan Scenic Area near Xindian MRT station is a great starting point. You can enjoy a swan paddleboat ride before a long YouBike ride north. Alternatively, walking along the variety of temple trails in the surrounding mountains may tempt those preferring a hike.

It’s more than 30km (19 miles) to reach Tamsui, but cyclists can stop at various locations along the way, such as Gongguan, Ximen, and Dadaocheng. If you do reach Tamsui Cultural Park, there’s a bustling old street ready to explore, or you can simply pack a picnic and enjoy the view.

2. Roam Da’an Forest Park

Da’an Forest Park is Taipei’s largest public park, ideal for losing yourself in nature. Walk a short distance in, and you’ll forget the city’s noise as you meander through winding trails, passing serene ponds and lush play areas often filled with locals and their families.

3. See Bonsai Art at Da’an Weekend Flower Market

Hot and humid for most of the year, Taiwan is a grower’s paradise, and the capital is home to the country’s finest agriculturalists. The Da’an Weekend Flower Market, set beneath an elevated highway, showcases everything from miniature cacti and monstera to impressive bonsai and delicate orchids at attractive prices.

4. Feel the Buzz at Taipei’s Best Night Markets

The sun sets early in Taiwan, but the darkness ushers in a wave of food options as vendors at Taipei’s night markets offer a plethora of affordable snacks, meals, and drinks until late, providing a taste of local culinary delights. Notable markets include Raohe Street Night Market near Songshan and Ningxia Market in Datong.

5. Wander Along Taipei’s Japanese-Era Streets

Wherever you stay in Taipei, the influence of Japan is palpable. Besides serving excellent sashimi and katsu curry, the city’s historical sites reflect its Japanese colonial past through stunning red-brick buildings restored to pristine condition that now house various museums and boutique stores.

Noteworthy locations include Wanhua District’s Bopiliao, a popular set for Taiwanese historical dramas, and Datong’s Dihua Street, renowned for herbal medicine and romantic prayers at City God Temple.

6. Explore Taiwanese Art and Culture on a Budget

While many Taipei museums and art galleries have entry fees, the value often tips in favor of the visitor. For instance, Saturday evenings at the Taipei Fine Arts Museum are free, and the National Palace Museum offers open entry on select public holidays, where you can view a world-class collection of ancient Chinese artifacts.

7. Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

No matter your opinion on Chiang Kai-shek—a figure of controversy—a visit to CKS Memorial Hall is among the top free activities in Taipei. This impressive monument is surrounded by manicured gardens and flanked by the National Theatre and National Concert Hall.

8. Tour a Tao Temple or Ten

Explore the serene atmosphere of Taipei’s grand temples, all of which are free to enter. Longshan Temple, one of the oldest, is a vibrant landmark in downtown Wanhua, dedicated to Guanyin, the Goddess of Mercy. Similarly, Ciyou Temple in Songshan venerates the Chinese sea goddess, Matsu.

9. Spend a Day at the Beach

Taipei is surrounded by beautiful beaches offering a fun and free day out. Pristine Qianshawan and Baishawan beaches are easily accessible by MRT, while Fulong Beach is just a short train or bus ride from the city center.

If you seek adventure over leisure, consider snorkeling and cliff jumping along the rugged northeast coast or try surfing at Wai’ao Beach in Yilan, renowned for its lively atmosphere and post-surf hangouts.

10. Head Out on a Wilderness Hike

The beauty of Taipei lies in its contrasts. One moment you can be navigating city streets, and the next, hiking through lush forests, with sounds of nature replacing urban noise. Embrace Taipei’s accessibility to nature by taking a day trip to Yangmingshan National Park or enjoy the sunsets at Jiantan Trail or Tiger Mountain, indulging in Taiwan’s biodiverse wilderness.

Bonus: Discover Nearly Free Activities in Muzha

With an entry ticket costing just a couple of dollars (NT$60), Taipei Zoo, located adjacent to Muzha MRT station, is a delightful experience for animal lovers eager to see endemic species like the Formosan black bear.

While in Muzha, consider taking the Maokong Gondola for an affordable yet scenic trip into the mountains, featuring both hiking trails and spots for traditional tea tasting, offering stunning views over the city.

Content last updated in October 2023.