Discover Taipei on Two Wheels - 5 Scenic Riverside Bike Trails + Must-See Attractions and Food Stops! Includes Bike Rental Tips

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Published at 11/29/2023

Key Highlights

Exploring Taipei by bike is an adventure you won't forget. The city's bike paths wind through beautiful riverside parks, offering lush greenery and serene river views. You might even spot fish jumping out of the water, creating ripples that mirror the expansive sky. Biking through such picturesque landscapes is sure to lift your spirits. In this guide, we’ll take you through five of Taipei's best bike trails, highlight must-visit attractions, and point out delicious food stops along the way. Plus, we’ll share some handy tips on bike rentals so you can enjoy a perfect blend of exercise and sightseeing during your trip!

Route 1: Keelung River Riverside Bicycle Path

This route is the longest among the five, but don't let that intimidate you! It's pretty flat, making it perfect for beginners or anyone looking to enjoy a relaxed and scenic bike ride. The path runs along both sides of the Keelung River. On the left bank, you can start from the Lin An-tai Historical House and pedal all the way to the Nanhu Left Bank Riverside Park. On the right bank, your journey begins at the Nanhu Right Bank Riverside Park and concludes at the Meiti Riverside Park. A couple of must-see spots along the way include Dajia Riverside Park and the bustling Raohe Night Market!

"Urban Green Park" Dajia Riverside Park

Welcome to Dajia Riverside Park, a lush urban oasis brought to life by the city's efforts to realign the Keelung River. This expansive park is a breath of fresh air with its sweeping green landscapes and the iconic Miramar Ferris Wheel gracing the skyline. It's a paradise for families and fitness enthusiasts alike, boasting five major play areas and a convenient bike rental service. Kids can have a blast on slides, climbing structures, fountains, sand pits, and sports fields. Dajia Riverside Park is also a floral wonderland. Come autumn and winter, the park is ablaze with tens of thousands of sunflowers, zinnias, and purple foxtail grass. In the warmer months of spring and summer, the park transforms into a vibrant canvas of Persian daisies, offering a stunning, ever-changing backdrop for your strolls and picnics!

Location: 5 Binjiang Street, Zhongshan District, Taipei City

Tempting Delights at Raohe Night Market

Previously, we gave you a glimpse of the vibrant Raohe Night Market. If you missed it, make sure to check out our Taiwan Night Market Recommendations and bookmark it for your next trip! Today, let's take a closer look at two must-visit stalls. First up is Fuzhou Shizu Pepper Cake. After a long bike ride, there's nothing better than biting into this thin, crispy pastry stuffed with tender, juicy meat. Don't let its simplicity fool you—this snack has earned a Michelin recommendation for four years in a row!

Once you've had your fill of tasty treats at the night market, make your way to "Apricot Blossom Village" for some delightful almond tofu! Their version stands out with a unique, slightly more watery texture, but the sweetness hits the spot perfectly. And if you still have a bit of room left, don't miss out on their delicious sago dessert.

Address: Raohe Street, Songshan District, Taipei City

｜Length of the Route: 22 kilometers

｜Estimated Time: 90 minutes

｜Transportation to the Left Bank: Hop off at Yuanshan Station on the MRT, stroll towards Minzu East Road and Xinsheng North Road, cross the underpass, then take a right turn

｜Transportation to the Right Bank: Alight at Yuanshan Station on the MRT, then transfer to bus routes 21 or 247, and get off at Mingshui Road 3 or Dazhi Pumping Station

Route 2: Tamsui River Riverside Bicycle Path

Embark on an adventure along the Tamsui River Riverside Bicycle Path, the second longest bike trail in the area. Starting from Dadaocheng Wharf, this scenic route winds its way through Yanping Riverside Park. Along the way, you'll encounter numerous attractions worth a visit, including the historic Dadaocheng, the charming Bopiliao, and the bustling Ningxia Night Market. This path is ideal for those who love to soak up history and culture. But today, let's dive into a couple of highlights: the Children's New Paradise and the delightful Bremen Pasta.

"The Ultimate Destination" Children's New Playground

If you're planning a cycling tour, make sure to include this charming "children's playground" on your itinerary! What sets it apart from the usual amusement parks is its super affordable pricing – a full admission ticket is just 30 TWD! While some attractions do have an extra fee, it's still a fantastic and budget-friendly stop. Whether you're looking to snap some photos, take a leisurely walk, or try out a few fun rides, this spot has something for everyone. Plus, if you're not a fan of heart-pounding thrills, you'll be pleased to know that most of the attractions here are more relaxed and smaller in scale. And if you find yourself wanting more, there's an option to get a day pass for unlimited access, all for under 50 HKD!

Official Website: Taipei Children's Amusement Park Official Site

Ticket Purchase: Taipei Children's Amusement Park Tickets

Opening Hours: Tuesday to Friday 09:00 AM - 05:00 PM, Weekend 09:00 AM - 06:00 PM

Address: No. 55, Section 5, Chengde Road, Shilin District, Taipei City

"Special Flavor" Bremen Pasta

This charming eatery has quickly become one of my go-to spots, proudly holding a solid 4.3 rating on Google. It's a hit among locals for its budget-friendly yet mouth-watering dishes, though be prepared for a bit of a wait during peak times. The experience begins with choosing your pasta and flavor, but you can also opt for omelet rice or baked dishes if you're in the mood for something different. Depending on how hungry you are, you can either stick with a free base or treat yourself to a creamy soup for a small extra charge. The restaurant's ambiance is simple, cozy, and stylish—perfect for a relaxed meal. And don't forget to save room for their irresistible cheesecake! After indulging in a hearty meal, I often find myself strolling around the nearby Flower Expo to help with digestion. Just a heads up for those with smaller appetites: the portions here are quite generous!

Official Website: Bremen Beiguan Store Facebook

Operating Hours: 11:00 AM - 9:00 PM

Address: No. 36, Jiuquan Street, Datong District, Taipei City

｜Length of the Driveway: 19.6 kilometers

｜Transportation: Take the MRT to Shuanglian Station, then walk along Minsheng West Road towards the Tamsui River to reach the Dadaocheng Evacuation Gate.

Route Three: Jingmei River Riverside Bicycle Path

If you’re looking for a shorter and more leisurely ride, this route is perfect! It’s packed with must-see spots like Jingmei Riverside Park, National Chengchi University (政大), and the zoo. The path is dotted with sports fields, so don’t forget to bring your gear or just join in on a game with the locals. You’ll also find vending machines near the fields, so staying hydrated is a breeze. Previously, I shared the Maokong Tour which also includes the zoo, and now I’ve got a tasty recommendation for you: Mama Goose's Goose Meat Noodle Soup. It’s a must-try!

“Budget-Friendly Delicacies” Mama Goose's Goose Meat Noodle Soup

If you find yourself wandering through Jingmei Night Market, don't miss out on Mama Goose's Goose Meat Noodle Soup, a hidden gem that even caught the attention of Michelin! It's super easy to enjoy their delicious duck noodle soup, and if you're feeling a bit more adventurous, add a plate of their smoked goose meat on the side. Trust me, the smoked goose is a must-try – it's tender, juicy, and has this amazing smoky aroma that will make your taste buds dance. Plus, they have a variety of side dishes chilling in the fridge, perfect for adding a little extra something to your meal. Regulars swear by these sides, saying the seasoning is spot on. Just a heads-up, though: the chili sauce on the table packs quite a punch, so go easy on it if you don't want to set your mouth on fire!

Official Website: Jingmei Goose Mama Facebook

Business Hours: 12:00 PM - 10:30 PM, Closed on Mondays

Address: No. 37-3, Jingmei Street, Wenshan District, Taipei City

｜Length of the Path: Left Bank 3.8 km, Right Bank 8.1 km

｜Estimated Time: Left Bank 25 minutes, Right Bank 40 minutes

｜Transportation: Get off at Zoo Station on the MRT

Route Four: Xindian Stream Riverside Bike Path

Get ready to explore the Xindian Stream Riverside Bike Path, which seamlessly connects Banqiao, Zhonghe, Yonghe, and Xindian. If you visit between October and March, you'll be treated to the delightful sight of migratory ducks and protected birds. Along your journey, you'll come across several popular spots like the Mabangting Memorial Park, Longshan Temple, and Gongguan. The path on both sides leads to Bitan, which we previously featured in our Taipei Couples Tour. This time, let me introduce you to two more fantastic places: the Water Supply Park and the Nanjichang Night Market.

"No Swimsuit Required" Water Park

After a long bike ride, wouldn't it be refreshing to take a dip and have some fun? This unique spot lets you enjoy water activities without the need for a swimsuit. The pools are shallow, making it an ideal place to enjoy the water slides and splash pads. Even during peak season, a full ticket is just 80 TWD, making it an affordable way to cool off. However, it's a good idea to bring an extra set of clothes because staying dry here is nearly impossible! If you still have some energy left, take a stroll over to the Water Supply Museum. With its stunning Baroque architecture, it's also a favorite spot for wedding photography.

Official Website: Water Park Website

Operating Hours: Open from 9 AM to 6 PM in July and August, and from 9 AM to 5 PM during other months. Note, the park is closed on Mondays.

Address: No. 1, Siyuan Street, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City

“High Cost-Performance” Nanji Airport Night Market

If you’re cycling through the area in the evening, make sure to check out the Mengjia Night Market and the Gongguan shopping district. But whatever you do, don’t miss the Nanji Airport Night Market. This hidden gem has a low tourist ratio and is a favorite among locals for its affordable prices and long-established food stalls that are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Start your food adventure with "Xiaodi Rice Cake," found right at the entrance of the market. This is a must-try when you're here. Make sure to order the tube rice cake, which is similar to oil rice but has a chewier and stickier texture. When paired with sweet and spicy sauce, it's an absolute treat. After that, warm up with a bowl of rich pork rib soup and indulge in the tender, flavorful braised pork knuckles. It’s a feast that’s both delicious and satisfying!

When it comes to dessert, you simply can't miss the "Roll Village Peanut Roll Ice Cream." This top-rated spot is known for its all-natural, handcrafted ice cream, featuring two unique flavors: the classic traditional-style and the rich tiramisu American-style. They don't skimp on the peanut powder either—it's sprinkled so generously that it feels like a freebie, and the ingredients are plentiful. The ice cream itself is luxuriously creamy, and the spring roll skin adds a wonderful, chewy texture. Just a heads-up: if you're not a cilantro lover, make sure to let the owner know ahead of time to leave out the "coriander!"

Address: Lane 307, Section 2, Zhonghua Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City

｜Length of the Pathway: 14 kilometers

｜Transportation Options: Take the Taipei Metro to Jingmei Station, Gongguan Station, or Guting Station, and then enjoy a stroll towards the scenic Xindian River

Route Five: Shuangxi Riverside Bicycle Path

Welcome to the final leg of our journey, the charming Shuangxi Riverside Bicycle Path! This short but sweet route stretches from Zhishan Park to Shuangxi Bridge, making it the perfect ride for those who want to explore without straying too far from home. Along the way, you'll encounter some of Taipei's most beloved spots, like the stunning Yangmingshan National Park, the bustling Shilin Night Market, and the delightful Kuo Yuan Ye Museum of Cake. And let's not forget the iconic National Palace Museum. Despite its brevity, this route is brimming with cultural and intellectual treasures. And to top off your adventure, let me recommend a fantastic hot pot restaurant in the area that you simply must try!

"The Strongest Meat Hotpot in Taiwan" - Zang Wang Supreme Hotpot

Welcome to Zang Wang Supreme Hotpot, often hailed as the strongest meat hotpot in Taiwan! This place is a meat lover's paradise, offering an impressive array of top-notch meats and seafood. It's perfect for group outings, thanks to their diverse group packages. The restaurant itself is spacious and bright, with beautifully presented ingredients that are sure to catch your eye. One of the highlights here is the self-service bar, featuring delicious chocolate smoothies made with Hershey's chocolate and coffee brewed from Starbucks beans – a testament to their commitment to quality. If you've got a group of eight with hearty appetites, we highly recommend trying the 168oz "World Beef and Pork Grand Feast for Eight." Even the staff admit it's a challenge to finish, but it's brimming with an incredible variety of ingredients that will leave you more than satisfied!

Official Website: Zao Wang Premium Hot Pot - Tianmu Store Facebook

Reservation System: Zao Wang Premium Hot Pot Tianmu Store Reservation System

Opening Hours: Weekdays 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM, 5:30 PM - 11:00 PM; Weekends 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM

Address: 3F, No. 55, Section 2, Zhongcheng Road, Shilin District, Taipei City

｜Length of Driveway: 3 kilometers on each side

｜Transportation: Head towards Shilin Bridge from Zhishan Station or Shilin Station

Hop on a Bike: Your Guide to Bicycle Rentals in Taipei

Getting around Taipei on a bike is super easy and fun! Here are three top ways to rent a bicycle:

"Exploring Taipei on Two Wheels" with Ubike 2.0

Get ready to pedal around Taipei with ease thanks to the well-established Smile Bike system. Renting and returning bikes at any of the numerous stations is a breeze, especially since the primary mode of payment is the EasyCard. This means all stations are unstaffed, giving you the freedom to rent and return bikes independently. Plus, each bike comes with a handy lock, perfect for those quick pit stops along your journey. It's worth mentioning that Ubike is split into two systems: 1.0 and 2.0. The bikes and docking stations for each system are different and not interchangeable. Right now, the 2.0 bikes are the way to go, as they offer more station options throughout the city. Before you head out, be sure to download the Ubike app. It’s a lifesaver for checking bike and parking space availability, and it helps you locate the nearest station. As for pricing, it's pretty straightforward. For the first four hours, you'll be charged NT$10 per half hour. If your ride lasts between 4 to 8 hours, the rate goes up to NT$20 per half hour. Should you exceed 8 hours, the cost increases to NT$40 for every half hour. While the pricing is clear, there isn't an option for a direct one-day rental. So, plan your ride accordingly!

For more information, check out the official YouBike website: YouBike Website

"Choose from Various Bike Models" Riverside Park Bicycle Rentals

When you arrive at Riverside Park, you have the convenient option of renting a bike right there. Scattered throughout Taipei's Riverside Park are numerous bike rental stations, and in most cases, you can return the bike at a different location. Just make sure to confirm with the rental company about where you can drop off the bike. Pricing details will need to be checked on the day of your visit. The great thing about renting on-site is the fantastic selection of bike models available. Whether you're looking for bikes with baskets, multi-speed gears, different tire styles, or bikes suitable for kids and adults, you'll find plenty of options to suit your needs.

Official Website: Riverside Park Bicycle Rental Website

"In-Depth Bicycle Tours" Bicycle Guided Tours

If you love cycling and want to soak in the sights and tales along the way, then opting for a guided bicycle tour is a fantastic choice. These tours often let you tailor your route to your preferences, and local guides are great at suggesting nearby attractions and mouth-watering food spots. It's a perfect option for those who worry about getting lost, as having a guide to show you the way makes the journey stress-free and enjoyable!

Discover Taipei on Two Wheels: Join the Urban Scenery Bicycle Tour