Taipei, Taiwan
Welcome to the gateway of Taiwan, an island of stunning natural beauty and technological prowess. Cruises to this port, primarily serviced by lines like Princess Cruises, Holland America Line, and Celebrity Cruises, offer a seamless entry into the vibrant capital city. Passengers are drawn to the incredible culinary scene, from world-class restaurants to bustling night markets, and the fascinating blend of ancient traditions and ultra-modern architecture.
For more information on Taipei, visit our sister site Amazing Atlas to read the Taipei City Guide
Most passengers head directly into the capital to explore its world-renowned attractions. A visit to the iconic skyscraper Taipei 101 is a must for panoramic city views from its observatory, located about a 45-minute drive from the port. For a cultural deep-dive, the National Palace Museum houses one of the world's largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts. Another popular sight is the majestic Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, where you can witness the impressive changing of the guard ceremony.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Several fascinating destinations are located very close to the port in Keelung, offering alternatives to a full day in the capital. The Yehliu Geopark, only a 30-minute drive away, is famous for its otherworldly rock formations sculpted by the sea, including the renowned "Queen's Head". Another popular choice is the historic mining town of Jiufen Old Street, about 40 minutes from the port. Its narrow, lantern-lit alleyways are filled with traditional teahouses, food stalls, and souvenir shops, offering a glimpse into old-world Taiwan.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Cruise ships dock at the Port of Keelung, not directly in the capital city. The port is located about 25 kilometers (15.5 miles) from the city center, and the journey typically takes 40-60 minutes by vehicle, depending on traffic. Due to the distance, transportation such as cruise line shuttles, organized tours, taxis, or local trains is necessary to reach the main attractions. The Keelung port terminal itself has basic amenities, and the surrounding city offers its own attractions, including a vibrant night market, should you choose to stay local.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The official currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD). While some tour operators may accept US dollars, they are not used for general transactions in shops or restaurants. Major credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, department stores, and larger establishments in the city. For smaller vendors and at night markets, cash is essential. ATMs are widely available at the port and throughout the city for withdrawing local currency.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Taiwan is widely regarded as a very safe destination for travelers. The capital and its surrounding areas have low crime rates, and it is generally safe for tourists to explore independently. Standard precautions should be taken against pickpocketing in crowded areas like public transport and night markets. The primary safety concern is often the busy traffic, so exercise caution when crossing streets. Overall, visitors can feel comfortable and secure while exploring.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
The region has a humid subtropical climate. The most popular cruising seasons are spring (March-May) and fall (September-November), which offer warm and pleasant weather ideal for sightseeing. Summers are hot and humid with a higher chance of rain and thunderstorms. Winter is mild and can be damp. It is important to note that the typhoon season officially runs from June to October, which may affect cruise itineraries, so packing a raincoat or umbrella is always a wise precaution.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
To get from the Port of Keelung to the capital, passengers have several options. Most cruise lines offer shore excursions or shuttle services directly to the city center. Taxis are readily available at the port terminal for a direct but more expensive journey. For independent travelers, the Keelung train station is a short walk from the port and offers frequent, affordable train service to the city's Main Station. Once in the capital, the MRT (subway) system is highly efficient, clean, and the best way to navigate between major sights.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Shopping is a premier activity for visitors. For high-end luxury brands, the area around the Taipei 101 mall is the top destination. The youthful Ximending district is packed with trendy boutiques, department stores, and quirky shops. For unique souvenirs, look for pineapple cakes, high-mountain oolong tea, and jade. No shopping trip is complete without visiting a night market like the famous Shilin Night Market, which offers countless stalls of food, clothing, and electronics where bargaining is sometimes possible.
Last updated on February 9, 2026
Maximize your limited time in Taipei with a private layover tour designed around a custom-made itinerary. Admire iconic landmarks such as the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, the Martyr's Shrine, and the Dalongdong Baoan Temple. You can also choose to enjoy panoramic views from the Taipei 101 skyscraper or discover the city's best spots for dining and shopping.
If you love Taiwan's famous Xiao Long Bao, this class will teach you how to make the juicy soup dumplings yourself. In this hands-on class, you will uncover the secrets to crafting this iconic dish along with two other local favorites. You'll also learn to prepare the rich flavors of Braised Beef Noodle Soup and mix the perfect Bubble Milk Tea.
See Taipei through the eyes of a local on a private city tour that combines major highlights with hidden gems. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you'll avoid large crowds while visiting landmarks like the Chiang Kai Shek Statue, Bao’an Temple, and Maji Market. This unique tour includes storytelling, city secrets, and a complimentary local treat for the perfect overview of the city.
Experience authentic Taiwanese cooking with recipes inherited from local mothers, using fresh seasonal fruits and vegetables to prepare delicious and healthy delicacies. With instructors who speak English, Chinese, and Japanese, this class is a journey to create lasting memories. You will savor not just Taiwan’s delicacies, but also the stories and local human touch behind the food.
Immerse yourself in Taipei’s history and authentic flavors with a cooking class in the Dadaocheng district. Your journey begins at Dihua Old Street and a traditional market before you learn to cook classic Taiwanese dishes from scratch. These intimate, LGBTQ+-friendly sessions are limited to six people, with a daily rotating menu featuring dishes like Braised Beef Noodle Soup and Luroufan. This experience transforms a simple meal into a history lesson on old Taipei.
Discover the charm of Northern Taiwan on this private tour, beginning with a visit to the Houtong Cat Village. You will then experience releasing a sky lantern in Pingxi and stroll through historic Jiufen Old Street, famously the inspiration for Miyazaki’s Spirited Away. The tour concludes by admiring the stunning Shifen Waterfall and exploring Shifen Old Street, with convenient hotel pick-up and drop-off in Taipei City included.
Embark on a private Keelung shore excursion to explore three iconic destinations: the geological wonders of Yehliu Geopark, historic Jiufen, and the charming Houton Cat Village. Throughout the tour, your knowledgeable guide provides insightful commentary, creating a personalized experience tailored to your interests. This tour offers Muslim-friendly services, including halal meal options and prayer facilities. A reminder that many food stalls only take cash, so please bring NTD.
Explore the rich history of Keelung on a private walking tour that begins within easy walking distance of the cruise port. Led by an experienced local youth team, this three-hour walk uncovers the city’s hidden corners and lesser-known stories. With a knowledgeable, bilingual guide, you will gain an intimate introduction to Keelung’s culture and its connection to Taiwan's broader history at a comfortable pace.
Delve into Chinese culture with a unique and informative experience focused on the traditional art of calligraphy. This activity is designed for anyone with an interest in learning more about this ancient cultural practice. You will gain valuable insight into the art form in a focused and engaging session.
Create your perfect day in and around Taipei with a completely custom 8-hour private tour. Work with a local guide to design an itinerary based on your personal preferences, whether for your own journey or a business trip. This convenient and customized service ensures you see exactly the attractions you want to see.
Travel to northern Taiwan's most popular tourist attractions with the expertise and convenience of your own private guide. Choose to visit iconic destinations such as historic Jiufen Old Street or the unique landscapes of Yehliu Geopark. You can also opt to explore the natural beauty of Yangmingshan National Park on this personalized tour.
Discover scenic Northern Taiwan on a private day tour from Taipei where you will be amazed by the unique landscapes in Yehliu Geopark. Explore the historical beauty of Jiufen, which inspired an Oscar-winning animation. Finally, make a wish as you release a traditional sky lantern to fly over Pingxi.
Discover scenic Northern Taiwan on a private day tour from Taipei focused on two iconic destinations. Explore the beauty of historical Jiufen, wandering the streets that inspired an Oscar-winning animation. Afterward, travel to Pingxi to make a wish as you release a traditional sky lantern into the sky.
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through Taiwan's most picturesque landscapes. This tour will guide you through the wonders of Jiufen, Shifen, and Pingxi. Prepare for a day filled with wonder as you see the enchanting lantern-lit skies of Shifen, the majestic Shifen Waterfall, and the stunning Golden Waterfall.
Join a Keelung shore excursion to the charming towns of Jiufen and Shifen. First, get lost in Jiufen's labyrinth of ancient alleyways, filled with tantalizing street food, quirky shops, and iconic tea houses. Then, travel to Shifen to launch a sky lantern, feast on Taiwanese snacks, and watch mesmerizing waterfall shows. Please remember to bring NTD, as many food stalls are cash-only.
Embark on a private tour of Yangmingshan National Park, an extinct volcanic terrain with breathtaking views of fumaroles and cityscapes. Choose the leisure route for a relaxed experience on scenic grassy trails or select the hiking route to climb to the top of Seven Star Mountain. This unforgettable tour includes the convenience of hotel pick-up to discover the park's natural beauty.
On this 4-hour walking food tour, you'll sample over 10 tastings while exploring the bustling XinYi District. Enjoy some of Taipei's best street food, including the famous "Taiwanese burger" and bubble tea, all with massive views of Taipei 101. The tour also visits the Songshan Cultural and Creative Park to sample soup dumplings and gives you the chance to taste the notorious "stinky tofu."
Dive into the historical streets of Dadaocheng for a taste of mid-19th century Taipei. On this food tour, you will eat your way through Dihua street, sampling signature dishes from charming local restaurants. Discover why Dadaocheng is a favorite neighborhood while exploring its photogenic architecture and alleyways.
Learn to cook healthy Taiwanese delicacies using recipes passed down from local mothers. This class utilizes prosperous, seasonal vegetables and fruits from across the island. The experience is more like a chat with friends than a formal lesson, as you discuss the importance of key ingredients like the fried shallot in Taiwanese cuisine.
Embark on a private day tour of Taiwan's Golden Triangle, taking you on an adventure through three treasured destinations. The tour begins with the quirky and unique rock formations of Yehliu Geopark. You will then explore the charming, historic streets of Jiufen before visiting Shifen to experience releasing a sky lantern.
No ships scheduled in port today.
Last updated on June 13, 2025
Taxis and pre-booked tours are convenient from Keelung Port to Taipei's attractions; public trains and buses are also available for a more local experience to reach the city center.
Near Keelung Port, explore Miaokou Night Market and Chung Cheng Park. A short ride takes you to Taipei's iconic Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum, and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.
Near the port in Keelung, the Miaokou Night Market is a must-try for local street foods like fresh seafood, tempura, and various Taiwanese snacks.
The local currency is New Taiwan Dollar (1 USD = 29.37 TWD). ATMs are widely available at Keelung Port, in banks, and convenience stores for withdrawing New Taiwan Dollars. Currency exchange counters are also found at the port and in banks.
Cruises typically visit during pleasant spring (Mar-May) or fall (Sep-Nov) weather; pack light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and an umbrella or light rain jacket as showers are possible.
Fulong Beach and Baishawan Beach are accessible from Keelung Port by taxi or a combination of public transport, offering sandy shores for relaxation, though they require some travel time.
Cruise lines offer convenient excursions to Taipei's highlights, Jiufen, and Yehliu Geopark. Independent exploration via taxi or pre-booked private tours can offer more flexibility.
Shopping near Keelung Port includes local items at Miaokou Night Market. For wider selections, visit Taipei's Ximending district or Taipei 101 mall; popular souvenirs include Taiwanese tea, pineapple cakes, and jade.
The charming old mining town of Jiufen and the unique coastal rock formations at Yehliu Geopark are popular and relatively short trips from Keelung Port.
Taipei 101, once the world's tallest building, features a massive 660-ton tuned mass damper to counteract sway from typhoons and earthquakes, which visitors can see.
On average cruises from Taipei are extremely affordable compared to other ports. The diagram below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises from Taipei. Prices are roughly equal throughout the year.
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