Taipei City is a treasure trove for travelers eager to explore a mix of old-world charm and modern marvels. Its compact size makes it easy to access top sights, while the area’s rich cultural tapestry invites deep dives into history, food, and nature. Whether you’re marveling at Taipei 101’s skyline, wandering through historic districts, or venturing outside the city for a scenic day trip, Taipei offers a variety of tours to suit every interest. We especially love the full-day Shifen, Jiufen, and Yehliu guided trip; it combines cultural, natural, and geological wonders all in one day and includes a lantern release—a true Taiwan experience.
Quick Overview: In this list, you’ll find a broad selection of tours including full-day sightseeing excursions like the private scenic tour to Jiufen, Yehliu & Pingxi, city-centric landmarks tours, culinary adventures such as food tours with top 10 Taiwan dishes, and unique experiences like tea culture and biking along Taipei streets. Read on for detailed insights into each tour to help you pick the right experience.
1. From Taipei: Shifen, Jiufen, and Yehliu Guided Day Trip
This full-day tour offers a well-rounded taste of Taiwan’s northeast coast. It starts with releasing sky lanterns in Shifen, a picturesque old railway town famous for its lantern tradition. Next, explore the narrow alleyways and snack stalls of Jiufen Old Street, where you can sample local treats and soak up the nostalgic atmosphere. The tour then moves to Yehliu Geopark, renowned for its striking rock formations, including the iconic Queen’s Head. Covering waterfalls, scenic landscapes, and local culture, this 9-hour trip balances nature and history. The reviews highlight the waterfalls and Geopark as the standout features, with many appreciating the seamless organization and informative guides. With both shared and private options, it’s ideal for those who want an engaging, affordable day out.
Bottom Line: A fun, full-day overview blending cultural sights with natural wonders—great for first-timers eager to see Taiwan’s scenic northeast.
2. Taipei: Taipei 101 Observatory Deck Entry Ticket
This experience puts you at the top of one of the world’s tallest buildings. Ascend in less than 37 seconds to the Taipei 101 Observatory, where panoramic 360-degree views await. It’s a straightforward ticket purchase, perfect if you want the convenience of skipping lines and enjoying the skyline at your own pace. The elevator is among the fastest globally, making the ascent a thrill itself. The observation deck offers stunning city views, especially at sunset or nighttime when Taipei’s lights shimmer. For a quick, budget-friendly experience, the $20 ticket is hard to beat, especially as it includes access to the fast-track queue. Reviewers praise the breathtaking vistas and the modern, clean facilities.
Bottom Line: An essential, no-fuss way to see Taipei’s skyline—ideal for travelers short on time or looking for a quick photo op.
3. Taipei: Food Tours w/ Top 10 Taiwan Food (Breakfast/Dinner)
For those whose idea of a perfect trip involves food, this tour is an ideal introduction to Taiwanese cuisine. Over 2.5 hours, you’ll try more than 7 dishes, including classic bubble tea, street snacks, and Michelin-starred food stalls. The guide will help you eat like a local, sharing tips on how to enjoy each dish and the best places to keep exploring later. The tour explores colorful streets and bustling night markets, making it an immersive cultural experience. Reviewers note that the variety of food and the lively guide make this tour both fun and educational. It’s perfect if you want to taste Taiwan without the hassle of planning.
Bottom Line: A tasty, relaxed way to discover Taiwan’s top dishes and local culture—highly recommended for food lovers.
4. From Taipei: Private Scenic Tour to Jiufen, Yehliu & Pingxi
For an intimate, customized experience, this private 8-hour tour takes you through Taiwan’s most scenic spots. You’ll visit Yehliu Geopark, famous for peculiar rock formations, and explore Jiufen Old Town’s nostalgic streets and snack stalls. The highlight is making a wish at Pingxi with a sky lantern. The private guide adapts the itinerary to your interests and pace, making it a flexible and personalized adventure. Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, especially Nana and Vincent, who go beyond the standard tour to share cultural insights. The optional tea set at A-Mei Tea House makes this a sophisticated day trip for those who want a tailored, authentic experience.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers wanting a flexible, in-depth exploration of Taiwan’s scenic and cultural highlights with a private guide.
5. Taipei: Jiufen Night View and Shifen Day Tour
This 7-hour tour balances daytime sightseeing with a magical evening atmosphere. It starts with the powerful Shifen Waterfall, where the roar of rushing water makes an impression. Then, release sky lanterns at Shifen Old Street, a lively street filled with souvenirs and street food. As dusk falls, the tour explores beautiful Jiufen and its night city views, where lanterns and lights create a captivating scene. Guides are licensed and attentive, with some reviews mentioning the benefit of extra water and helpful tips. The tour ends at Raohe Night Market, perfect for a night food crawl.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want to combine nature, culture, and nightlife with a knowledgeable guide, especially if you love evening scenery.
6. Taipei: Private Day Tour by Car
This flexible 8-hour private car tour offers total customization, ideal if you want to pick your destinations. Whether it’s the Yehliu Geopark or local temples, your driver and guide tailor the day around your interests. The guide Jimmy Lin is praised for his knowledge and friendly approach, making this trip more like exploring with a friendly local. It’s perfect for travelers who want a private, comfortable way to see Taipei and nearby attractions without the rush of group tours. The ability to include or skip sites like the Taipei Zoo or specific temples allows full control over the experience.
Bottom Line: Excellent for flexibility and comfort, suited for travelers who prefer a personalized, private experience.
7. Private Full-Day Northern Taiwan Tour by Car from Taipei
This full-day private tour offers a curated experience around northern Taiwan’s key sights. Your driver, Vincent Lee, is highly rated for his knowledge and kindness, guiding you through Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, and Pingxi. The itinerary is flexible, and stops include photo opportunities and local markets. Many reviews mention the calm, safe driving, and the ability to personalize the stops. It’s perfect for travelers who want to see a lot but at their own pace, with expert guidance along the way.
Bottom Line: A great choice for those seeking an efficient, tailored day with local insights and flexibility.
8. Taipei: Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals
This 3-hour journey introduces you to Taipei’s vibrant food scene with 10 tastings of local favorites. Led by a guide like June, you’ll explore the streets of Shida Night Market, Taipei University, and Yongkang Street, sampling dishes like pork buns, fried chicken, and lu rou fan. The personalized approach ensures you experience authentic flavors and learn about dining customs. Reviewers appreciate the warm, engaging guides and the variety of foods. If you’re a serious foodie looking for an authentic taste of Taiwan, this tour offers a fun, relaxed way to explore.
Bottom Line: A must-do for foodies wanting a deep dive into Taipei’s street eats with expert guidance.
9. From Taipei: 5-Day Best of Round Taiwan Island Tour
For travelers wanting to see more of Taiwan beyond Taipei, this 5-day guided tour covers Sun Moon Lake, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Kenting, and the East Coast. Staying in luxurious 5-star hotels, this trip is perfect for those who want comfort and convenience. Tour guide Alan Chou earns praise for his engaging commentary and cultural insights. The itinerary balances sightseeing with relaxation, making it suitable for those with a week to spare. The reviews mention the good mix of activities and well-chosen hotels. This is a solid option if you want a comprehensive, well-organized introduction to Taiwan.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a comfortable, all-inclusive experience of Taiwan’s highlights over several days.
10. From Taipei: Thousand Island Lake and Pinglin Tea Plantation
Escape the city to enjoy peaceful landscapes at Thousand Island Lake and learn about Taiwan’s tea culture at Pinglin. The 5-hour tour includes a scenic stop at the lake, a visit to Pinglin Tea Museum, and a tea tasting at a local tea house. The tour offers a quiet, relaxing experience suitable for those who want to combine nature with cultural exploration. Reviewers note the knowledgeable guide Kevin and the beautiful scenery. It’s especially good for travelers craving a break from urban life and interested in Taiwan’s tea traditions.
Bottom Line: Perfect for nature lovers and tea enthusiasts looking for a calm, cultural day trip.
11. Taipei: 4-Hour Morning City Cycling Tour with Breakfast
Start your day with a Taiwanese breakfast and explore Taipei by bike. This 4-hour tour takes you through lively markets like the Morning Market, temples, and streets less frequented by travelers. The route is flat and manageable, making it suitable for all fitness levels. It’s ideal for active travelers who want an energetic start while sampling local breakfast specialties. Reviewers praise the balance of sightseeing and food, with some mentioning the helpfulness of guides.
Bottom Line: A lively, active way to see Taipei’s day-to-day life and sample its breakfast cuisine.
12. Taipei: Classic Landmarks Day Tour
If you prefer a rundown of Taipei’s most iconic sights, this 9-hour tour covers the National Palace Museum, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Lungshan Temple, and Taipei 101. The guide crafts a balanced day of history, culture, and modern architecture. Reviewers appreciate the efficient pacing and the knowledgeable guide, Wes, who shares insightful commentary. It’s perfect for first-timers who want a structured, full-day introduction to the city.
Bottom Line: Ideal for newcomers wanting a thorough, guided introduction to Taipei’s main attractions.
13. From Taipei: Beitou and Yangmingshan National Park Day Tour
Experience Taiwan’s volcanic landscapes and hot springs on this 9-hour tour. Highlights include the Thermal Valley, Yangmingshan Flower Clock, and a foot bath in Beitou. The guide Kevin offers detailed explanations about Taiwan’s geothermal activity and hot spring culture. Many reviews commend the well-organized itinerary and the peaceful scenery. This trip suits travelers interested in geology, nature, or relaxing in hot springs. It’s a full-day adventure that combines outdoor exploration with cultural insights.
Bottom Line: Excellent for nature lovers and those curious about Taiwan’s volcanic phenomena and hot springs.
14. Taipei: Street Food & Hidden Eats Night Market Food Tour
Explore Taipei’s bustling night markets on this 3-hour food adventure. Starting at Yongkang Street, you’ll sample dishes like pork buns, fried chicken, and tofu pudding, ending with a secret dish. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour helps you discover the city’s best eats while soaking in the lively atmosphere. Reviewers love the variety of street foods and the local insights provided. It’s perfect for night owls and those eager to taste authentic Taiwan street cuisine.
Bottom Line: An energetic, flavorful experience for night market explorers—bring your appetite.
15. From Taipei: Pinglin Tea Culture and Maokong Guided Day Tour
For tea lovers, this 9-hour tour showcases Taiwan’s tea traditions with visits to Maokong and Pinglin. Ride the Maokong Gondola for scenic city views, then explore Pinglin’s Tea Museum and enjoy tastings at a local tea house. The tour emphasizes learning about tea from seed to cup, often including a tea brewing demonstration. Reviewers praise the friendly guides and the peaceful landscapes. This is a great choice for those wanting a cultural, relaxing day centered around Taiwan’s famous tea.
Bottom Line: Ideal for tea enthusiasts and travelers seeking a calm, cultural experience.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Taipei
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and time. If you’re eager to see the iconic city sights in one day, the classic landmarks tour offers a thorough overview. For a more personal experience, the private scenic or full-day private tours provide flexibility. Food lovers should check out the street food or top 10 Taiwan dishes tours for authentic flavors. Nature enthusiasts might prefer the Yangmingshan hot springs or Thousand Island Lake. Booking early, especially for popular tours, ensures you get your preferred time and spot.
Final Thoughts
Taipei offers a wide range of tours catering to every interest, from city sightseeing to nature and food adventures. Whether you want to ascend Taipei 101 for skyline views, explore historic Old Streets, or relax with a tea tasting, there’s something for you. For a balanced experience that combines culture, scenery, and local flavor, the Shifen, Jiufen, and Yehliu guided trip is a top choice. For more personalized exploration, consider a private car, especially if you prefer to tailor your day. No matter what, booking your tours in advance will help ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences in Taipei.