Things To Do
in Keelung

Keelung, Taiwan is a vibrant port city located on the northern coast, known for its picturesque harbor and rich maritime history. The city boasts a unique blend of traditional Taiwanese culture and modern urban life, making it a captivating destination for travelers. Renowned for its seafood and night markets, Keelung is a culinary delight with an array of local dishes to explore.

With stunning coastal views and nearby hiking trails, visitors can immerse themselves in both the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the area.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the Harbor and Local Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Keelung Harbor, where you can watch the fishing boats come in. Enjoy a traditional Taiwanese breakfast at a local eatery.

afternoon
:

Explore the National Museum of Marine Science and Technology followed by a stroll through the bustling Keelung Night Market to sample local street food.

evening
:

Dinner at a seafood restaurant along the harbor, followed by a visit to the nearby Baiyue Temple to experience local spirituality.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Scenic Views
morning
:

Hike up to the iconic Keelung Mountain for stunning panoramic views of the city and coastline. Pack a light lunch to enjoy at the summit.

afternoon
:

Visit the scenic Yehliu Geopark to marvel at the unique rock formations along the coast.

evening
:

Return to the city for a night walk along the waterfront, enjoying the illuminated views of the harbor, followed by dessert at a local café.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of Noodles$2
🍣Sushi Platter$10
Coffee$3
🍦Ice Cream$2
🍽️Dinner for Two$30

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine
  • Beautiful coastal scenery and outdoor activities
  • Vibrant night market scene
  • Humidity can be uncomfortable in summer
  • Limited English proficiency in some areas
  • Heavy rainfall during certain seasons
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "謝謝" - Thank you
  • "請問廁所在哪裡?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "我不懂" - I don’t understand
  • "這個多少錢?" - How much is this?

Places to Visit in Keelung

Visit one of these nice places.

Keelung Harbor

A picturesque harbor with colorful fishing boats, perfect for sunset photography.

Yehliu Geopark

Famous for its unique geological formations, providing stunning natural backdrops.

Baiyue Temple

A beautifully ornate temple that showcases traditional architecture and offers great views of the city.

Culinary Guide

Food in Keelung

Keelung is a food lover's paradise, especially known for its fresh seafood and vibrant night market scene. Visitors should indulge in the local flavors and street food offerings that represent the rich culinary heritage of Taiwan.

Keelung Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Seafood Congee

A warm rice porridge served with fresh seafood, perfect for breakfast.

Must-Try!

Braised Pork Rice

Tender pork belly served over a bed of fragrant rice, topped with pickled vegetables.

Tempura

A variety of seafood and vegetables deep-fried in a light batter.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Keelung Night Market

A bustling market filled with food stalls, offering a wide variety of local delicacies.

Zhongzheng Park Market

A local market known for its fresh produce and quick bites.

Climate Guide

Weather

Keelung experiences a subtropical climate, characterized by mild winters and hot, humid summers. Average temperatures range from 15°C (59°F) in winter to 32°C (90°F) in summer. Rainfall is frequent, particularly in late summer, making it advisable to carry an umbrella year-round. The city is also prone to typhoons from June to October.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals, using proper greetings and gestures.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start the meal and use chopsticks properly.

Public Behavior

Maintain a calm demeanor and avoid loud conversations in public places.

Safety Guide

Safety

Keelung is generally a safe city for travelers, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to remain vigilant in crowded areas and markets. Always keep personal belongings secure and avoid poorly lit streets at night. Emergency services can be reached easily, and locals are generally helpful towards tourists.

Tipping in Keelung

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Taiwan, but rounding up the bill is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted, and local convenience stores offer easy cash withdrawal.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid weather; ideal for beach outings, but be wary of typhoons.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and clear skies, perfect for hiking and sightseeing.

Winter

Cool and occasionally rainy; dress warmly and enjoy the cozy indoor dining options.

Nightlife Guide

Keelung at Night

Keelung's nightlife is vibrant, primarily centered around its night markets and waterfront bars. The Keelung Night Market is a must-visit for late-night snacking and socializing. There are also several pubs and karaoke bars where locals and visitors gather to unwind. The atmosphere is lively, with street performances adding to the charm of the evening scene.

Hiking in Keelung

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Teapot Mountain

A moderately challenging hike that rewards with stunning views of the coastline and unique rock formations.

Northeast Coast National Scenic Area

Offering various trails with breathtaking views of the ocean and opportunities for wildlife spotting.

Airports

How to reach Keelung by plane.

Taipei Songshan Airport

Located approximately 35 kilometers from Keelung, this airport offers domestic flights and limited international services.

Getting Around

Walkability

Keelung is quite walkable, especially around the harbor and city center. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, some hilly areas may require more effort, so comfortable footwear is recommended. Public transportation is also available for longer distances.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Local Residents

The majority of Keelung's population consists of Taiwanese locals, with a vibrant mix of cultures.

Tourists

Visitors from around the world, particularly from Southeast Asia and Japan, frequent the city for its cultural and culinary offerings.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is extremely popular in Taiwan, with local teams drawing large crowds.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played, both casually in parks and competitively, with many local leagues.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Keelung can be busy, especially during peak hours due to its status as a port city. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient. Biking is also popular, with bike lanes available in certain areas. It's advisable to plan for extra travel time during rush hours.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Keelung.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many local eateries offer vegetarian dishes, but checking with staff is recommended.

Gluten-Free

While options are limited, fresh seafood and rice dishes can often be gluten-free.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Taiwan has a robust healthcare system with both public and private facilities. Keelung has several hospitals and clinics offering quality medical care. Emergency services can be contacted easily, and many healthcare providers speak basic English. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover Taiwan

Read more in our Taiwan 2025 Travel Guide.

Taiwan Travel Guide