Taipei Hotels

Imposing, but calm, and consistently voted as one of the best hotels in Taipei, the Shangri-La has all you need for a great stay, including a heated rooftop pool, a sauna and a spa. Restaurant choices include Japanese, Cantonese and Italian, and a cocktail bar with dazzling skyline views.

A grand old dame of a hotel with four stylish restaurants and all mod cons. Owned by a local businessman, the Sherwood's philosophy is to combine western facilities with Taiwanese hospitality. As such, the hotel tends to attract A-listers including Taiwanese director Ang Lee and Chinese basketballer Yao Ming.

Built in 1952, the Grand Hotel shows off the culture of Taiwan through its Classical Chinese architecture, making it a landmark in itself. As well as exquisite rooms, amenities include a grand ballroom and a business centre, plus an outdoor pool and four restaurants (two Chinese, Italian and a steakhouse). English-style afternoon tea can also be enjoyed.

This mid-sized business hotel in the eastern business district has a distinctly Chinese ambience. It has 176 clean and comfortable rooms equipped with cable television and internet access. Shanghainese cuisine is served at Ning Yuan restaurant on the third floor. The hotel also has a business centre and fitness room.

This hotel does 'boutique luxury' to perfection, with an emphasis on good service. Rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows and park or city views, and there's also a Western and Asian restaurant where the free breakfast is served. The collection of contemporary Taiwanese sculpture is a reason enough to pop in without staying. Children over 12 only.

Although somewhat in need of an upgrade, this hotel in the commercial centre is a solid mid-range choice. Perks include an airport limo service and business and fitness centres, and there's a downstairs cafe and a Cantonese restaurant.

While the decor may be somewhat old-fashioned, the rooms at this modest hotel are a decent size, and are furnished with flat-screen TVs and tea and coffeemaking equipment. Complimentary breakfast is served in the cafe downstairs, and there's a small convenience store next door.

The price is a bargain for Taipei, considering its close proximity to Taipei Central MRT/ train station and Ximending shopping district. The rooms are nothing special, but staff are friendly and Wi-Fi is free. Complimentary breakfast is served in a rooftop cafe.

Set in the lively Shuanglian neighbourhood (and four minutes' walk from the MRT station), this budget hotel offers a raft of freebies: bicycle use, Wi-Fi device, bottled water and snacks, plus breakfast and use of a washer/dryer. Rooms are simple and minimalist but have flat-screen TVs, and there's a 24-hour convenience store next door.