Verified Facts
To determine where to stay in Taiwan, consider the top areas such as Taipei's Ximending, Zhongshan, and Da'an, as well as Kaohsiung's Lingya and Gushan, which offer a range of options for different types of travelers.
Best Areas to Stay
For each of the top areas, the following characteristics can be noted:
Ximending (Taipei)
Best For: Backpacker / Luxury
Vibe: Ximending is known for its vibrant nightlife, shopping, and dining scene, with a mix of trendy bars, clubs, and restaurants. The area is also home to the famous Red House Theater and has a lively atmosphere.
Price Range: $30-100/night
Pros: Convenient location, wide range of accommodation options, and easy access to public transportation. Ximending is also a hub for shopping and entertainment, with many restaurants and bars to choose from.
Cons: The area can be noisy and crowded, especially at night.
Zhongshan (Taipei)
Best For: Business / Family
Vibe: Zhongshan is a bustling commercial area with a mix of office buildings, shopping malls, and restaurants. The area is also home to the Taipei Main Station, making it a convenient location for travelers.
Price Range: $50-150/night
Pros: Convenient location, easy access to public transportation, and a wide range of accommodation options. Zhongshan is also a hub for business and commerce, with many office buildings and conference centers.
Cons: The area can be crowded and noisy, especially during rush hour.
Da'an (Taipei)
Best For: Luxury / Family
Vibe: Da'an is an upscale area with a mix of high-end shopping malls, restaurants, and hotels. The area is also home to the famous Da'an Park, making it a great location for families.
Price Range: $80-200/night
Pros: Convenient location, easy access to public transportation, and a wide range of high-end accommodation options. Da'an is also a hub for shopping and dining, with many upscale restaurants and malls.
Cons: The area can be expensive, and some areas can be quite crowded.
Lingya (Kaohsiung)
Best For: Backpacker / Budget
Vibe: Lingya is a lively area with a mix of night markets, shopping streets, and restaurants. The area is also home to the famous Lotus Pond, making it a great location for nature lovers.
Price Range: $20-50/night
Pros: Convenient location, easy access to public transportation, and a wide range of budget-friendly accommodation options. Lingya is also a hub for nightlife, with many bars and clubs to choose from.
Cons: The area can be noisy and crowded, especially at night.
Gushan (Kaohsiung)
Best For: Family / Budget
Vibe: Gushan is a scenic area with a mix of parks, museums, and restaurants. The area is also home to the famous Kaohsiung Harbor, making it a great location for families.
Price Range: $30-80/night
Pros: Convenient location, easy access to public transportation, and a wide range of budget-friendly accommodation options. Gushan is also a hub for culture and history, with many museums and historical landmarks.
Cons: The area can be quite far from the city center, and some areas can be quite crowded.
Accommodation Types
| Type | Price Range (USD/night) | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hostels | $10-30 | Budget/Social | Great for backpackers and solo travelers, with dorm rooms and shared facilities. |
| Guesthouses | $20-50 | Mid-range/Local | Family-run guesthouses with a homey atmosphere, often with shared facilities. |
| Hotels | $50-150 | Comfort/Business | Wide range of options, from budget-friendly to luxury, with private rooms and amenities. |
| Boutique Hotels | $80-200 | Experience | Unique, design-focused hotels with a personal touch, often with upscale amenities. |
| Resorts | $100-300 | Relaxation | Luxury resorts with extensive amenities, often located in scenic areas. |
| Apartments/Airbnb | $30-100 | Long stays/Families | Fully furnished apartments, often with kitchen facilities, great for long-term stays or families. |
Booking Tips
- Book in advance, especially during peak travel seasons (June to August and December).
- Use online booking platforms such as Booking.com, Agoda, or Expedia to compare prices and find deals.
- Consider negotiating prices, especially for long-term stays or off-season bookings.
- Be aware of seasonal pricing, with prices tend to be higher during peak travel seasons.
- Read reviews and check the location before booking, to ensure it meets your needs.
- Use travel apps such as Google Maps or TripAdvisor to find and book accommodations.
- Be cautious of scams or fake listings, and always use reputable booking platforms.
Safety & Location Tips
- Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas or at night.
- Avoid walking alone in dimly lit or isolated areas.
- Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps, and always check the driver's ID before getting in.
- Be mindful of pickpocketing or scams in tourist areas.
- Keep valuables secure and consider using a hotel safe or locker.
- Research the area before booking, to ensure it is safe and convenient for your needs.
- Consider staying in areas with easy access to public transportation, such as near MRT stations or bus stops.