Less traffic, more breeze: Taipei’s best bike routes uncovered.
If you’ve ever thought, “I want to explore a city, get some fresh air, AND burn off the bubble tea I drank this morning,” then hop on a bike and pedal your way through Taipei! This city is made for cycling. It’s flat, scenic, super safe, and full of surprises (like riverside karaoke machines and vending machines that sell umbrellas — just in case).
So, whether you’re a pro cyclist or just someone who likes to ring the bell for fun, here are the best bike routes in Taipei and some helpful tips to keep your ride smooth.
🛣️ Top Bike Routes in Taipei
1. Riverside Cycling Path (Tamsui River)
This is the king of all bike paths in Taipei. Stretching over 100 km (yes, really!), the riverside path goes through parks, bridges, and neighborhoods — all car-free!
Start from: Dadaocheng Wharf
End at: Tamsui Old Street (if you’re ambitious)
Why ride it?
+ Gorgeous river views
+ Chill picnic spots
+ Cute ducks and herons flying around like they own the place
+ You can reward yourself with fried squid and an ice cream when you reach Tamsui
2. Jingmei Riverside Bikeway (景美溪河濱自行車道)
Looking for a quiet, green ride away from the crowds? The Jingmei Riverside Bikeway is a hidden gem. It stretches along the peaceful Jingmei River and connects to other major bikeways like Xindian River, so you can ride as much (or as little) as you like.
Start from: Jingmei Sports Park or Taipei Zoo area
Route: Follow the riverside trail toward Daonan Riverside Park, cruise past National Chengchi University (NCCU), and enjoy the breeze as you ride toward the Shenkeng direction or loop back toward Xindian
Distance: Left bank approx. 3.8 km / Right bank approx. 8.1 km (loop or connect as you please!)
Why ride it?
+ Super chill path with lots of trees and shade
+ Great views of the river and mountains
+ Connects to fun spots like Shenkeng Old Street (tofu time!)
+ Fewer crowds than the Tamsui route — more peace, less pedal traffic
This route is perfect if you’re in the southern part of Taipei and want to feel like you’re riding through a nature documentary — but with snack stops.
3. Elephant Mountain Area (Sort of…)
Okay, full honesty: you can’t bike up Elephant Mountain unless you’re a superhuman with iron legs. BUT the area around it, like Songshan-Xinyi Riverside Park, is a smooth ride with great views of Taipei 101.
Why ride it?
+ Stunning cityscape views
+ Romantic sunset vibes
+ You can always lock the bike and walk!
4. Around Daan Forest Park
You can’t bike inside Daan Forest Park, but the outer loop is perfect for a breezy ride under the trees. You’ll spot joggers, Tai Chi pros, and maybe even a squirrel or two. You might also be interested in【Taipei Day Tour】Top 10 Dog-Friendly Parks and Green Spaces in Taipei
Why ride it?
+ Easy, short loop (about 1.5 km)
+ Perfect for beginners or lazy Sundays
+ Lots of benches and shade
5. Taipei City Street Cycling (with bike lanes!)
Yes, you can bike in the city! There are bike lanes along major roads like Zhongxiao East and Roosevelt Road. Just stay alert and steer clear of scooters (they sneak up on you like ninjas).
Why ride it?
+ Great for coffee runs and local exploration
+ Urban vibes
+ You’ll feel like a true Taipei local
🚲 How to Rent a YouBike in Taipei (The EasyCard Way)
Renting a YouBike in Taipei is as easy as sipping bubble tea — and just as fun! If you’ve got a local SIM card and an EasyCard (Taiwan’s magic transit card), you’re ready to roll. Read more【About Taiwan】Stay Safe on the Road: A Simple Guide to Traffic Safety in Taiwan
🟡 Step-by-Step Guide
1. Grab an EasyCard – Buy one at any MRT station or 7-Eleven
2. Register It – Use the YouBike 2.0 app or a station kiosk. You’ll need a Taiwanese phone number.
3. Find a Bike – Use the app or just spot the yellow bikes around town
4. Tap and Go – Scan your card, hear the beep, and off you go!
5. Return Anywhere – Dock the bike and wait for the “beep” to confirm it’s returned.
💰 Price Check
+ First 30 minutes: NT$10
+ 30–60 mins: another NT$10
+ After that: charges increase, but still a bargain!
🧠 Pro Tips for Biking Taipei
● Bring water – Humidity is real. Stay hydrated.
● Wear sunscreen – Cloudy doesn’t mean safe.
● Use Google Maps (bike mode) – Avoid busy roads.
● Ring the bell, don’t yell – Be polite!
● Check the weather – Taipei has mood swings.
And that’s the tea. Follow our Facebook for more amazing Taiwan.
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