If you’re staying in Taipei and itching to get out for the day, you’ve got plenty of options that don’t require hauling your bags anywhere overnight. Day trips from Taipei offer a refreshing break from the city’s hum without needing much planning.
Take Jiufen, for instance. Just an hour on the bus or train, and you’re winding through narrow alleys lined with old tea houses and street snacks like taro balls and peanut ice cream rolls. It feels like stepping into a movie set, and on a misty morning, it’s downright magical. Or maybe head to Yangmingshan National Park if you want fresh air and some easy trails. The sulfur vents near Xiaoyoukeng are a local favorite, and the azalea blossoms in spring are stunning if you time it right.
And don’t overlook Tamsui at the river’s edge. It’s a great spot to catch a sunset with a cold drink and try some famous iron eggs, which you won’t find much in the city. When you’re planning your day trips around Taipei, remember: some places get crowded on weekends, so start early or pick a weekday if you can. Public transport can take you most places quickly and cheaply, but renting a scooter or car makes it easier if you want to explore off the beaten path a bit.
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If you have a free day and a love for easy adventures, skip the car rental and rely on Taipei’s MRT and bus system. For example, you can reach Tamsui easily by MRT, then rent a bike to explore the waterfront and nearby streets at your own pace. One underrated spot I love is Bitou Cape, just a bus ride from Taipei where you get beautiful sea views without the hike crowds. Oh, and check the weather ahead,Taipei’s drizzle can quickly turn any outdoor plans soggy, so pack a light raincoat. Trust me, you don’t want to be stuck without one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Got questions about day trips from Taipei? I’ve got you covered.
The simplest way is hopping on the train to Ruifang and then catching a local bus up to Jiufen. The ride itself is scenic, and it usually takes about an hour total. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also take a direct bus from downtown Taipei.
Absolutely. Yangmingshan is a favorite among locals and super accessible by bus or MRT. You can easily do shorter trails like the one to Qingtiangang grassland or the sulfur vents near Xiaoyoukeng without exhausting yourself.
Sure thing. Most buses and trains will have English signs, and many drivers understand basic English. Having a translation app on your phone helps, but places like Jiufen, Tamsui, and Yangmingshan are used to tourists and pretty straightforward to navigate.
Don’t miss Tamsui’s iron eggs, which are chewy and mildly spiced. Jiufen’s peanut ice cream roll is a must-try sweet treat, and if you’re hiking Yangmingshan in winter, grab some steamed sweet potatoes from vendors near the park entrance.
If you’re comfortable riding one, definitely consider it. It gives you freedom to explore places like Pingxi or small villages that public transport might not reach easily. Just be cautious with traffic and weather.
I’d say get moving around 7 or 8 am to beat the crowds and enjoy cooler weather, especially in summer. Plus, parking and bus seats fill up fast later in the day.
