Taipei tours

Things to do in Taipei

Taipei hums with life, where the neon of skyscrapers meets the calm of ancient temples tucked in quiet lanes. Tours in Taipei reveal the city's dual nature: bustling night markets where the aroma of stinky tofu and mango shaved ice fills the air. Picture a private tour where you skip the lines at Taipei 101 and the stories of its towering presence unfold. Feel the city's pulse on a walk through Ximending's vibrant streets, buzzing with street performers and trendsetters. A food and wine tour here lets you savour Xiao Long Bao, each bite a burst of flavour. With your local guide, Taipei becomes more than a location; it becomes a narrative, told in sensory detail. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Taipei. Explore Taipei your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Taipei tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Taipei for every interest, including: Layover tours: Meet at Taoyuan Airport or Songshan Airport and zip in on the Airport MRT for a loop of Longshan Temple, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and Taipei 101, with a quick beef noodle or pineapple cake stop before you’re back in time for boarding. History tours: Walk Dihua Street’s Qing-era shophouses and the Xiahai City God Temple, then compare Japanese-era landmarks like the North Gate with a curated visit to the National Palace Museum for highlights from Silk Road artefacts to Qing court treasures. Food and Drink tours: Start at a classic soy milk shop for you tiao and warm doujiang, sample xiaolongbao on Yongkang Street, then graze Raohe or Ningxia Night Market for pepper buns, oyster omelettes, and bubble tea, finishing with a tea tasting in Maokong reached by gondola. Getting around: The MRT and buses cover the city well and most neighbourhoods are walkable; if you prefer, your guide can arrange a chauffeured tour or private car to save time between tastings and sights. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Taipei inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Exploring Taipei on a private walking tour with a local guide opens up a world of neighborhoods teeming with character and charm, each offering unique experiences. - Ximending: Often referred to as the Harajuku of Taipei, this area is ideal for young travelers and those young at heart, with its vibrant street art and trendy shops. - Dadaocheng: Known for its historic buildings and artisanal shops, this neighborhood appeals to cultural tourists and those interested in Taipei's rich history. - Zhongshan District: A blend of the old and new, this area is perfect for families and multi-generational groups looking for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences. - Beitou: Famous for its hot springs, this neighborhood is a must-visit for wellness enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation. Day trip ideas from Taipei Use Taipei as your base and slip out to nearby towns, hot springs, and sea cliffs for easy day trips that fit well as private tours without rushing. - Jiufen and Shifen: Walk narrow lanes packed with street snacks, ride the old Pingxi Line, see the photogenic Shifen Waterfall, and release a sky lantern. If you like local food, train history, and simple views, your tour can lean into those stops. - Yehliu and Keelung: Explore Yehliu Geopark’s wind‑carved rocks, then head to Keelung for the harbour, Miaokou night market, and sea views. Great for coastal walks, geology, and seafood tastings in one loop. - Tamsui and Bali Left Bank: Stroll the riverside, visit Fort San Domingo, ferry across to Bali for cycling paths and quiet cafes, and catch a strong sunset if skies are clear. Good if you want a slower pace with heritage, snacks, and water scenery. - Beitou and Yangmingshan: Learn hot spring culture at the museum, soak in public baths, then continue up to fumaroles, flower fields in season, and short hikes. This suits you if warm pools and nature are your thing, and your tour can match the walking level you prefer. - Wulai: Ride into green hills for a waterfall, riverside paths, and Atayal culture, with options to try mountain foods and hot springs. A solid pick for simple nature, light walking, and a close look at local life. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Taipei most travellers miss.