Taipei City is a walking paradise for travelers who enjoy exploring on foot. Its blend of historic landmarks, bustling markets, and stunning views makes it an ideal destination for guided walks. Whether you’re fascinated by Taipei’s colonial past, eager to sample street food, or want to soak in panoramic cityscapes, there’s a tour for you. For example, the Old Town Walking Tour offers a deep dive into Taiwan’s history, while the Raohe Night Market Walk is perfect for food lovers. As someone who appreciates authentic local experiences, I find that walking tours often reveal unexpected stories and small details that bigger tours might miss. If you’re new to Taipei or want to see it through a local’s eyes, these options give you a variety of ways to enjoy the city on foot.
Quick Overview
We’ve gathered a list of nine top walking tours in Taipei, each with its own unique focus. From historic sites and scenic hikes to culinary adventures and personalized private experiences, these tours are designed to give you a well-rounded taste of the city. Check out the links for more details and decide which suits your interests and schedule best.
1. Taipei: Old Town Walking Tour
This tour takes you through the heart of Taipei’s historic core, covering landmarks like the Presidential Palace, Zhongshan Hall, and the Red House in Ximending. It’s a 2.5-hour walk led by a local guide who shares insights into Taiwan’s turbulent past, including the 228 tragedy and other pivotal events. The tour includes stops at the National Museum of Taiwan, where you can get a quick overview of the island’s history, and then rambles through the charming streets of the old town. The highlight is passing by the iconic Red House, an octagonal building that’s a symbol of Taipei’s creative scene. The small group size and affordable price—just $1.10 per person—make this a great choice for budget travelers who want a comprehensive introduction.
What makes this tour stand out is its blend of history, architecture, and local markets, giving a balanced view of Taipei’s heritage. The guide’s storytelling makes the past come alive, and your walk through Ximending offers a glimpse of modern youth culture. If you’re a history enthusiast or just want to see the city’s core without feeling rushed, this tour fits well. The only potential downside is its relatively brief duration, which might leave you wanting more time to explore independently.
Bottom Line: An excellent, budget-friendly way to see Taipei’s historic landmarks and learn about the city’s complex past in just 2.5 hours.
2. Taipei: 2-Hour Raohe Night Market Walking Tour
For food lovers, this night market walk offers an authentic taste of Taipei’s vibrant street scene. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour explores the Raohe Night Market, one of the city’s most popular spots for sampling local snacks. You’ll visit the market’s highlights, like the famous pepper buns and various other Taiwanese delicacies, which you can enjoy (own expense). The 2-hour walk is perfect for experiencing the bustling atmosphere and learning insider tips on the best vendors and dishes.
Guests rave about the passionate guides—many mention guides like Josefina and May Ei—who not only introduce you to the food but also share stories about Taiwanese culture and religious practices. The tour emphasizes safety and insider knowledge, making it especially appealing for solo travelers and first-timers. The price of $29 offers good value considering the quality of the experience and the delicious tasting opportunities.
Bottom Line: A lively, flavorful introduction to Taipei’s night market scene, ideal for anyone wanting to combine walking with tasting local food.
3. Taipei Private Walking Tour with a Local
For the traveler who prefers a tailored experience, this private tour promises personalized attention and flexible planning. With a local guide, you’ll discover Taipei’s hidden corners, enjoy authentic conversations, and learn tips and tricks that only locals know. Since it’s personalized, the tour can be customized based on your interests, whether that’s temples, street art, or lesser-known neighborhoods.
What makes this tour special is its focus on making your experience about friendly interactions rather than just ticking landmarks off a list. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed pace and insiders’ insights. Reviews highlight the guide’s passion and knowledge, making this a worthwhile investment at $48 per person. Because it’s a private experience, it suits couples, families, or small groups who want to explore at their own pace.
Bottom Line: A flexible, intimate way to see Taipei through a local’s eyes, with the option to customize the route to your interests.
4. Taipei Foodie + History Walking Tour
This tour blends culinary delights with a deep dive into Taipei’s history. It starts at the Taipei North Gate, where you learn about the city’s colonial past, before moving onto street food tastings in Ximending. The 2-hour tour includes stops at historic sites and food stalls, with a focus on Taiwan’s gastronomic heritage. Led by a guide who is a local food guru, this experience offers insights into how history shaped the city’s cuisine.
Guests consistently praise the tour for its balance of learning and tasting. The itinerary includes a visit to a dessert spot and a rich exploration of local flavors. The value at $45 per person is solid, considering the combination of history and food. It’s best suited for those who want to combine their sightseeing with experiencing authentic street eats. A possible drawback is that the tour may be intense for those with food allergies or very limited mobility.
Bottom Line: A tasty way to discover Taipei’s past and present, combining history with street food sampling in a fun, engaging format.
5. Taipei: Highlight Attractions Walking Tour
This 3-hour private tour covers Taipei’s must-see sights with a focus on iconic landmarks and local hotspots. Led by an expert guide, the route includes temples, markets, and parks, giving a rundown of the city’s highlights. You’ll sample Taiwanese bubble tea, explore historic temples, and discover hidden alleys—all tailored to your interests.
What sets this tour apart is the customizable nature—your guide will craft the itinerary based on your preferences. The reviewer’s comment “very knowledgeable about the culture and history” underscores its quality. At $73 per person, it offers good value for a personalized experience, especially if you want to see both the main attractions and some lesser-known spots. The main disadvantage is its longer duration, which may be less appealing if you’re short on time.
Bottom Line: An ideal choice for travelers wanting a flexible, private overview of Taipei’s top attractions and local flavor.
6. Taipei: Taipei 101 Observatory – Skyline 460 Cloud Walk
For panoramic city views, this tour takes you to Asia’s highest outdoor observatory at Taipei 101. Access is quick with skip-the-line tickets, so you spend less time waiting and more time looking. The highlight is the view from 460 meters up, where you can see Taipei’s skyline, distant mountains, and even the coast if the weather’s clear.
The guided tour includes interactive displays about Taipei’s landmarks and a chance to step onto the glass floor for a thrilling experience. With a price of $98, it’s a splurge that’s worth it for the spectacular vistas and the thrill of standing 460 meters above the city. It’s best for travellers who want a memorable, awe-inspiring moment during their visit.
Bottom Line: A must-do for skyline lovers and those eager for an unforgettable view of Taipei from one of the world’s tallest buildings.
7. Vintage Taipei – Best of Taiwan and Sunset Walking Tour
If you’re interested in Taipei’s cultural and historic charm, this vintage tour is a lovely choice. It includes visits to iconic temples, a hidden district, and a market specializing in Chinese medicine and local products. The tour culminates with a sunset at the harbor, accompanied by local beer—a relaxing way to wind down.
Rated 5/5 with only four reviews, the tour emphasizes traditional Taiwanese experiences and vintage shops filled with stories. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy culture and leisurely exploration. The price is modest at $1.10 per person, reflecting its intimate and curated nature. Given its focus on local traditions and sunset views, it’s best for those with a slower pace and an interest in Taiwan’s past.
Bottom Line: A charming, relaxed way to enjoy Taipei’s historic sites and local culture, ending with a scenic sunset.
8. Taipei: Walking Christmas Photography and Shopping Tour
For those visiting during the holiday season, this Christmas-themed tour is a festive way to explore Taipei. Spanning 11 hours, it takes you through illuminated Christmas markets, dazzling mall displays, and a historic church decked out in holiday cheer. It’s perfect for capturing photo-worthy scenes and soaking in the holiday spirit.
The tour emphasizes visual spectacle—from Christmas trees to festive window displays—and includes opportunities to take memorable photos. It’s designed for those with a keen eye for photography and a love of seasonal decor. The price is $67, which includes the experience of multiple markets and sights in one day. Be prepared for a long day, but the visual rewards are substantial.
Bottom Line: An ideal holiday experience for photo enthusiasts and anyone wanting a joyful, festive day in Taipei’s winter displays.
$67 per person
9. Taipei: Yanmingshan walking tour – Qingtiangang Grassland
For lovers of nature and outdoor walking, this tour takes you through Yangmingshan National Park and the Qingtiangang Grassland. You’ll hike for about 1.5 hours, enjoying expansive green fields, wildflowers, and grazing buffalo. The guide shares stories about local life in Yangmingshan, making the experience both scenic and educational.
This tour is perfect for travelers wanting a short, active outing away from the urban hustle. The scenery is described as beautiful, and the hike is accessible for most fitness levels. The price of $40 per person makes it a budget-friendly option for a half-day outdoor escape from the city.
Bottom Line: A great choice for nature lovers seeking a scenic, light hike with plenty of photo opportunities.
$40 per person
How to Choose the Right Walking Tour
Choosing between these tours depends on your interests, budget, and schedule. If history is your passion, the Old Town Walking Tour provides a thorough look at Taipei’s past. For a culinary adventure, the Raohe Night Market Tour offers delicious samples and local insights. Travelers seeking a personalized experience should consider the Private Walking Tour, while those wanting iconic views might prefer the Taipei 101 Observatory.
For natural scenery combined with cultural exploration, the Yanmingshan Grassland offers an active outdoor option. Keep in mind your fitness level, interest in history or food, and time constraints. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular tours like the Night Market walk.
In summary, Taipei’s walking tours provide a fantastic way to see the city’s diverse character—from historic sites and bustling markets to breathtaking views and scenic hikes. For a comprehensive experience, the Highlight Attractions Tour offers a great overview, while the private options allow for more personalized exploration. Whether you’re in town for a weekend or a longer stay, these walks will help you discover Taipei’s real charm—on foot and at your own pace. Be sure to book early and choose the tour that best suits your interests and energy level.