Discover Taipei’s vibrant nightlife spots with our ultimate guide to the best hotspots in the city. Explore the most exciting and lively venues for a night out in Taipei.
Exploring Taipei’s Night Markets
Taipei is famous for its bustling night markets, which are a must-visit for any visitor to the city. The choices are nearly endless, with many Michelin-rated food stalls and a wide variety of street food to try. The major night markets in Taipei, such as Raohe, Shilin, Ningxia, and Tonghua, are open and bustling every night of the year. Additionally, there are off-the-beaten-track markets like Nanjichang, Gongguan, Huaxi, Shida, and Jingmei, which offer a more local experience. These markets are a great place to sample Taiwanese street food, shop for souvenirs, and experience the vibrant energy of Taipei at night.
Must-Try Foods at Taipei’s Night Markets
– Stinky Tofu: A pungent, fermented tofu dish that is a popular snack at night markets.
– Xiao Long Bao: Delicious soup dumplings filled with pork and steamed to perfection.
– Scallion Pancakes: Crispy, flaky pancakes filled with scallions and other savory ingredients.
– Bubble Tea: A Taiwanese specialty, bubble tea is a sweet, milky tea with tapioca pearls at the bottom.
Best Time to Visit Night Markets
Most night markets get going around 5 PM, making it a great time to visit and avoid the crowds. The big markets tend to become uncomfortably crowded from around 7 to 10 PM, but they become more manageable again from 10 PM till closing time around midnight. This makes it ideal for both early birds and night owls to explore the markets and enjoy the local flavors of Taipei.
Trendy Bars and Lounges
If you’re looking for a trendy and upscale evening experience, Taipei has a variety of bars and lounges to choose from. These establishments offer unique cocktails, stylish ambiance, and often feature live music or DJs. Some of the most popular trendy bars and lounges in Taipei include:
Alchemy
Located in the Da’an district, Alchemy is a hidden speakeasy-style bar known for its creative and expertly crafted cocktails. The intimate and sophisticated atmosphere makes it a popular choice for those looking for a classy night out.
Ounce
Another speakeasy-style bar, Ounce is tucked away in the Zhongshan district and offers a wide selection of specialty cocktails. The bar’s dimly lit interior and vintage decor create a chic and mysterious vibe, perfect for a night of indulgence.
Hanko 60
For a taste of old-world elegance, Hanko 60 is a must-visit lounge in Taipei. This establishment exudes sophistication with its classic cocktails, refined decor, and attentive service. It’s the ideal spot for a luxurious and relaxing evening.
These trendy bars and lounges are perfect for those who appreciate fine drinks, stylish surroundings, and a touch of glamour in their nightlife experience. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to unwind in a sophisticated setting, Taipei’s upscale bars and lounges have something to offer for everyone.
Live Music and Performance Venues
If you’re a fan of live music and performance, Taipei has a variety of venues to choose from. Whether you’re into underground music, jazz, or traditional Chinese opera, there’s something for everyone to enjoy in the evening. Some popular venues include:
Revolver
Revolver is a well-known underground music venue in Taipei, hosting a range of DJs, bands, and themed events. It’s a favorite among locals and expats alike for its diverse music offerings and lively atmosphere.
Sappho
For those who appreciate live jazz, Sappho is the place to be. This cozy venue offers an intimate setting for enjoying live jazz performances by talented musicians.
TaipeiEye
If you’re interested in traditional Chinese/Taiwanese opera, TaipeiEye is the premier opera house in the city. With rotating performances that showcase stunning outfits, acrobatics, martial arts, and traditional music, it’s a cultural experience not to be missed.
These venues provide a range of entertainment options for those looking to enjoy live music and performances in Taipei at night.
Nightclubs and Dance Floors
If you’re looking to dance the night away, Taipei has a vibrant nightlife scene with plenty of options for nightclubs and dance floors. From big night clubs like Myst, Wave, and AI Night Club in the ATT4Fun building near Taipei 101 to underground music venues like Revolver, Triangle, Pipe, Legacy, and The Wall, there’s something for everyone. For expat-oriented pubs, check out On Tap and Brass Monkey. If you’re into live jazz, Sappho is the place to be. The city also offers a range of themed events and DJs at various venues. Whether you’re into electronic dance music, live bands, or underground music, Taipei has it all.
Top Nightclubs and Dance Floors in Taipei:
– Myst
– Wave
– AI Night Club
– Revolver
– Triangle
– Pipe
– Legacy
– The Wall
– On Tap
– Brass Monkey
– Sappho
With a diverse range of options, you’re sure to find a nightclub or dance floor that suits your taste in Taipei.
Remember to always check the latest event schedules and entry requirements before heading out to these venues.
Rooftop Bars with Stunning Views
For a breathtaking view of Taipei at night, head to one of the city’s rooftop bars. These bars offer a stunning panorama of the city skyline and are perfect for a romantic evening or a fun night out with friends. Some popular rooftop bars in Taipei include:
1. Barcode Rooftop Bar
Located in the Da’an District, Barcode Rooftop Bar offers a stylish and modern setting with panoramic views of the city. Sip on a cocktail and enjoy the twinkling lights of Taipei from this trendy rooftop spot.
2. Marquee Restaurant & Bar
Situated in the Xinyi District, Marquee Restaurant & Bar boasts a spacious rooftop terrace with sweeping views of Taipei 101 and the surrounding area. It’s a great place to unwind and take in the city’s beauty.
3. WET Bar & Lounge
Perched atop the W Taipei hotel, WET Bar & Lounge offers a chic and sophisticated rooftop experience. Enjoy a drink by the poolside while gazing at the city skyline and Taipei 101 in the distance.
These rooftop bars provide a memorable way to experience Taipei at night and are perfect for capturing stunning photos of the city’s illuminated landscape.
Late-Night Eateries and Street Food
Taipei is famous for its bustling night markets, which are open and bustling every night of the year. Some of the major night markets in Taipei include Raohe, Shilin, Ningxia, and Tonghua. These markets offer a wide variety of street food options, including many Michelin-rated food stalls. The markets get going around 5 PM and remain open till around midnight, making it a great option for late-night snacking.
24-Hour Restaurants
If you prefer to sit and enjoy a meal, Taipei has numerous 24-hour restaurants to choose from. These establishments offer a variety of cuisines, from dim sum and beef noodles to ramen and late-night Taiwanese breakfast. Some of the best 24-hour restaurants in Taipei are compiled in the article, providing options for those looking for a late-night dining experience.
Craft Beer and Cocktails
For those interested in craft beer and cocktails, Taipei offers a plethora of options. There are several breweries and craft beer bars in the city, as well as hidden speakeasy-style bars and turn-of-the-century style absinthe and whiskey bars. Cocktail lovers will be equally impressed with Taipei’s array of temptations, including a range of “hidden” speakeasy-style bars and other unique cocktail experiences.
Night Clubs and Live Music
Taipei offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with options ranging from big night clubs to expat-oriented pubs and underground music venues. The city is also home to live jazz and folk/nostalgic Taiwanese live music venues, providing entertainment for those looking to enjoy a night out without necessarily focusing on drinking.
Non-Booze-Oriented Activities
For those who prefer non-booze-oriented activities, Taipei offers a range of options for evening and late-night entertainment. From traditional Chinese/Taiwanese opera performances to visiting famous landmarks such as Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and Longshan Temple at night, there are plenty of cultural and historical experiences to be had in the city after dark.
In conclusion, Taipei offers a vibrant and diverse nightlife scene with a range of exciting and unique spots to explore. From lively night markets to trendy bars and clubs, there is something for everyone to enjoy in this bustling city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Taipei’s nightlife is sure to offer unforgettable experiences.
