According to forum posts, hotels near Taipei Main Station such as the Rich & Free Hotel offer a central location with easy access to transportation but limited opportunities for meeting fellow travelers. The Amba and Westgate hotels in Ximen are well-reviewed for their proximity to dining, shopping, and the metro, with the Amba being the more affordable option.

Some travelers have recommended staying near the Zhongshan MRT Station for its vibrant nightlife and proximity to the city center. For those looking for a unique experience, the Beitou Springs area offers a retreat with easy access to central Taipei via the subway.

For luxury accommodations, the Palais de Chine at Taipei Main Station is mentioned as a five-star hotel with excellent connectivity to various transport options, making it a convenient choice for exploring the city and beyond.

For brief stays such as an 18-hour layover, options like the NYS Loft Hotel near Taipei Main Train Station are suggested due to their affordability and location, providing a practical spot for rest and refreshment between flights.

According to forum posts, major attractions in Taipei include Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum, and the historic district of Tamsui. The area is well-known for its scenic views along the promenade and rich historical significance.

Travelers have highlighted Beitou for its hot springs and unique architecture. Additionally, the Yehliu Geopark is recommended for its striking geological formations. For those interested in hiking, Elephant Mountain provides excellent views of Taipei 101.

Some travelers said that Shilin and Raohe Street night markets are essential for experiencing Taipei's vibrant street food scene and nightlife. These markets offer a variety of local delicacies and shopping opportunities.

For art and culture enthusiasts, Huanshan 1914 Creative Park and Songshan Cultural and Creative Park are must-visit destinations, known for their exhibitions and artistic atmosphere.

Some travelers recommend staying near Taipei Main Station for ease of access to the airport via the Airport MRT, which takes about 40 minutes. The nearby CityInn Station Branch III is mentioned as a cost-effective and well-rated hotel option.

For sightseeing, users suggest visiting Taipei 101 and Elephant Mountain for views, along with cultural sites like the Sun Yat Sen and Chiang Kai Shek memorial halls. Ximending is recommended for shopping and dining, described as the Harajuku of Taipei.

Travelers have expressed interest in food tours like Taipei Eats, though availability may vary. For early risers, traditional Taiwanese breakfast spots such as Fu Hang Dou Jiang and Yong He Soy Milk King open around 5:30 AM, offering local delicacies.

For navigating the city, the Taipei City MRT is convenient for reaching various tourist attractions. Travelers are advised to manage their layover time carefully, considering travel and wait times, to maximize their short stay.

According to forum posts, Taipei Main Station is a pivotal hub where High Speed Rail (HSR), the regular railway (TRA), and Taipei Metro (MRT) lines converge, making it a central point for accessing various parts of the city and beyond. Some travelers suggested staying near this station for efficient travel across Taipei and to other cities.

Travelers have called out the comprehensive Metro (MRT) and bus services in Taipei, noting their efficiency and extensive network. The availability of the Easy Card was mentioned, which can be used on public buses and the MRT, simplifying fare payments and transfers.

For many users, the airport bus service is a reliable option. The Kuo Kuang bus 1819 runs 24 hours from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei Main Station, costing around NT$140 and taking about 50-55 minutes. This service is frequently used by travelers arriving late at night or early morning.

Some travelers said that for regional travel, such as trips to Sun Moon Lake, public transportation options include the HSR to Taichung followed by a Nantou bus, with the total journey taking around 2.5 hours.

According to forum posts, travelers have recommended several accommodation options near Taoyuan Airport for convenience. The Novotel Taipei Taoyuan International Airport is highly suggested due to its proximity to the airport, located at Airport Hotel Station A14a on the Taoyuan Metro Line. Another option is the City Suites Taoyuan Gateway Hotel, which is near Dayuan Station A15. Additionally, the Four Points by Sheraton Linkou, located at Linkou Station A9, offers easy access to the airport.

For those preferring to stay closer to local attractions during a layover, some users have suggested staying in Zhongli City, where you can find the Novotel Hotel Taoyuan International Airport and explore nearby night markets. This location combines the convenience of airport proximity with local Taiwanese culture.

According to forum posts, EasyCard can be used to pay for various modes of transportation in Taipei, including buses, Taipei Metro, and Taoyuan Metro. It is also accepted on railway trains and in convenience stores, vending machines, and some retail outlets throughout Taiwan.

Travelers have noted that EasyCards can be topped up with cash, and there are co-branded credit card/EasyCard options that allow for automatic top-ups. However, standard credit card top-ups at machines are not supported, leading some users to prefer cash for simplicity.

Some travelers mentioned that while EasyCard is technically accepted by taxis in Taipei, practical experiences vary, with some drivers preferring cash despite having EasyCard signs on their cabs.

There is no deposit refund for EasyCards; the NT$100 cost is a non-refundable purchase price. For tourists, special unlimited MRT passes like the 72-hour pass are available, but these do not cover rides from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei Station on Taoyuan Metro.