Sleep: Taipei

Bold, brilliant and sometimes bonkers — the best hotels in Taiwan’s capital

In many ways, Taipei is a quintessential East Asian metropolis — a bombastic mix of old and new, raucous night markets, excellent public transport and a personality big enough to match its towering, sparkling skyscrapers. Compared to some of its neighbours, Taipei — and Taiwan itself — is one of the region’s more affordable destinations, with a wide range of impressive, great-value hotels, many with central locations and skyline views. If you’re keen on staying in the city, the buzzing Da’an District charms with quaint tea shops and restaurants, Xinyi District is the nightlife hotspot and historic Dadaocheng offers a slice of traditional, 19th-century Taipei. There’s no shortage of places to splurge on, either: the chic mountain getaways of Beitou, for example, tempt deep-pocketed travellers with fine views and luxurious baths fed by hot springs. But wherever you while away your days in this city, you can be sure of a good night’s sleep.

Best for creatives PLAY DESIGN HOTEL

At this boutique design hotel with only five rooms, there’s plenty of emphasis on local talent, with furniture and decor created by Taiwanese craftspeople. Each of the rooms is themed — one is dedicated to tea, another inspired by a laboratory. The whole hotel experience is interactive: a design-your-own-room option lets guests pick out their favourite layout and furniture online beforehand. The location, in lovely Dadaocheng, is also excellent — this is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Taipei, with lots of street food, tea shops and atmospheric streets a short walk away.

ROOMS: From NT$3,600 (£94), room only. stay.playdesignhotel.com