Best Hotels in Taipei
Taipei Introduction
Taipei is a colourful city with a rich history and wonderfully delicious culinary scene that celebrates the melting pot of Japanese, American, Chinese and Southeast Asian influences that have shaped it. Fascinating museums and moving memorials share the turbulent history of the capital city of Taiwan, while lush gardens, parks and zoos honour the wondrous natural beauties of the region. Vibrant markets showcase fresh fruits and vegetables, and fabulous street performers make even grocery shopping an event to remember.Hotels in Taipei
Taipei hotels are predominantly mid-range 3-star hotels in and near the city centre, from where guests can easily walk to theatres, restaurants and public transportation. These hotels are air-conditioned and soundproofed, with fitness centres, business centres and in-house restaurants. Luxury hotels in Taipei are of the 5-star variety. These opulent hotels boast exquisite interiors, dramatic rooftop and indoor pools, spectacular views of the city skyline and spas that provide the ultimate in pampering. Rental homes and apartments offer privacy and spacious living areas in addition to bedrooms and kitchens. They often include such amenities as outdoor swimming pools and free WiFi.Where to stay
Criss-crossed by the Keelung River and Tamsui River, Taipei has an abundance of riverfront hotels. The Ximending neighbourhood is where you'll find a couple of luxury hotels in Taipei, with lavishly appointed rooms and fabulous river views, as well as many good mid-range hotels with air conditioning, fitness centres, in-house restaurants and easy access to local food stalls and shops. The Zhongzheng District, with its wealth of 3-star hotels offering free WiFi, free parking and simple but hearty breakfasts, is close to concert halls and theatres, ideal for families who want to be in the heart of the action.Things to see
The National Palace Museum is a must-see while in Taipei with its jaw-dropping collection of Chinese art in jade, ceramics, paint, calligraphy and other modalities. The exquisitely restored Dalongdong Bao'an Temple is a beautiful place to see traditional performance and decorative arts, while the Confucius Temple has fun, interactive displays on the history of Confucius. It may look like an old wine factory from the outside, but inside the fully renovated Huashan 1914 Creative Park is a thriving haven for artists and musicians, surrounded by a delectable array of cafes, bars and restaurants. For a fantastic day trip outside Taipei, take the train to Hualien and explore the soaring marble cliffs and twisting tunnels of the spectacular Taroko Gorge, or see magnificent giant pandas at the Taipei Zoo. Afterwards, board the Maokong Gondola and soar up to the highlands, where you can sample traditional Chinese tea in numerous tea shops.How to get to Taipei
Most travellers to Taipei arrive by plane into Taoyuan International Airport, located about 45 minutes outside of Taipei. The bus is the cheapest route into the city. Board at the airport and it will take you to some of the major Taipei hotels, or drop you at a Metro station where you can catch a cab direct to your hotel. Airport taxis are also available to take you to hotels in Taipei, but they are much more expensive unless you're sharing with other travellers.
