Guide: 5 Best Hotels in Taipei | Redeeming Points & Free Nights
Introduction
Taipei, the vibrant capital city of Taiwan, is a destination where culture, modernity, and luxury converge. For travelers who value exceptional experiences without breaking the bank, finding the perfect hotel can be a game-changer.
In this curated guide, I’ll aim to explore Taipei's top five hotels from a redemption perspective. These hotels, namely the Regent Taipei, Le Meridien Taipei, Kimpton Daan, Grand Hyatt Taipei, and W Taipei, offer not only outstanding accommodation but also the opportunity to make the most of your loyalty points or rewards. Each of these hotels boasts its own unique charm and style, providing a spectrum of unforgettable experiences that cater to different tastes and preferences. Points and award availability are some of the grading criteria, along with the luxury and service vibes.
So let’s deep dive into my top 5 hotels in Taipei (Redemption Perspective)!
Regent Taipei
If you have the IHG free night certificate or have 40,000 points to spare from IHG, the Regent Taipei is perhaps one of the best redemptions in the IHG Rewards Program, due to its spectacular breakfast buffet, its rich history of 5-star service and its fantastic location in Taipei.
First up, the Regent Taipei. The Regent Taipei stands as a stellar choice within the IHG One Rewards program, given its award availability in terms of points and free night certificate redemption. This classic luxury hotel's exceptional breakfast buffet is the biggest standout feature, offering a wide array of delectable options to start the day in indulgence. From diverse culinary delights to fresh and lavish spreads, the breakfast experience at Regent Taipei is a gastronomic delight and one that often forces you to think twice about lunch.
Moreover, the hotel boasts extensive amenities, including a state-of-the-art fitness center and a rejuvenating spa, allowing guests to maintain their wellness routines and unwind in opulent comfort. I found the fitness centers to be great, and the trainers were incredibly kind and helpful. The focus on well-being is a testament to the hotel's commitment to providing a comprehensive and satisfying stay. Adding to its allure is the Regent Galleria, an adjoining luxury shopping haven and Michelin guide dining paradise. The plethora of restaurants and shops within this complex complement the overall experience, offering a convenient and diverse range of options for guests to explore and enjoy.
With an average redemption rate of under 40,000 points per night, compared to the typical cash rate exceeding $250-450 per night, the value proposition is easily evident. This substantial point saving allows members to stretch their rewards further, making the Regent Taipei an excellent redemption choice for those seeking both luxury and affordability within the IHG One Rewards program.
Le Meridien Taipei
If you have any 50K Marriott Free Night Certificates or 50,000 Bonvoy Points from Marriott, this underrated hotel is a fantastic redemption in the Marriott portfolio. Stunning rooms, insanely popular location and a ton of amenities make this one of my favorite hotels in Taipei.
Up next, the Le Meridien Taipei. I’ve stated in my review of this hotel, but I’ll say it here as well: I do believe the Le Meridien is the better hotel than the W Taipei.
Le Meridien Taipei stands as a hidden gem within the Marriott Bonvoy program, offering an unparalleled value per point redemption. This luxurious hotel boasts an enviable location that places guests at the epicenter of culture, commerce, and culinary delights. Situated in the prestigious Xinyi District, the property allows for effortless exploration of iconic landmarks like Taipei 101 and the ridiculously beautiful hike of Elephant Mountain.
Beyond the exceptional location, the rooms at Le Meridien Taipei further enhance the value proposition for Marriott Bonvoy members. These elegantly appointed accommodations feature modern amenities, opulent furnishings, and stunning views of the city or nearby mountains. Whether guests opt for a classic guest room or indulge in one of the suites, they are met with a level of luxury that far exceeds the points required for redemption. The impeccable service and attention to detail ensure that every stay is a memorable experience.
The value per point is great when you’re able to find availability for nights under 40,000 points, making Le Meridien Taipei an exquisite option for Marriott Bonvoy members to redeem their hard-earned points while enjoying the comfort and sophistication of Taipei's finest hotel. This combination of an exceptional location and sumptuous rooms epitomizes the essence of the Marriott Bonvoy program – offering remarkable value for travelers seeking a taste of elegance and culture in the heart of Taiwan's bustling capital.
Kimpton Da An Taipei
Boutique is the name of the game for the Kimpton Da An hotel, and it’s a fantastic redemption if you have any IHG Free Night Certificates or 40,000 IHG points. Located close to various Michelin star restaurants, top bars in the world and the original Din Tai Fung, this is a great hotel for couples looking to feel a bit extra in Taipei!
Here comes the Kimpton Daan Taipei! The allure of this hidden boutique retreat extends beyond its mesmerizing interiors. Step into the gastronomic wonderland that defines the Kimpton Daan Taipei experience. Dining here is not just a meal—it's a symphony of flavors that caresses your taste buds with the finesse of a virtuoso. The restaurant, The Tavernist, is an enchanting journey through Taiwan's diverse culinary tapestry. From the vibrant street food stalls to the finest haute cuisine, every dish is a celebration of Taiwanese flavors. It also serves a fantastic breakfast that IHG Diamond members can take advantage of.
One of the standout features at Kimpton Taipei is the daily happy hour. It's not just a token gesture but a genuine, social experience. Guests can enjoy complimentary wine, cocktails, and appetizers, creating a convivial setting that fosters connections and adds immense value to your stay. This warm, inclusive touch sets the Kimpton Taipei apart and makes it a superb choice for IHG One Rewards redemptions.
At 40,000 IHG points per night (or less!), this is fantastic redemption for those with IHG certificates or points to spare. Visiting Taipei hotels during peak times can get a bit expensive, so this is viable option for those wishing to visit the bustling capital of Taiwan. The Kimpton Daan beckons you to unravel the tales spun by your taste buds, making each point spent a testament to the lavish and delightful redemption that awaits in the IHG Rewards Program.
In summary, Kimpton Taipei is a standout choice in the IHG One Rewards program. Its unique boutique design, inclusive happy hour, and curated breakfast experience make it an unforgettable stay. Moreover, the exceptional value in terms of points, typically under 40,000 points per night versus the cash rate of over $300, solidifies its position as a fantastic redemption option. So, for those seeking a blend of luxury, culture, and affordability, the Kimpton Taipei is a clear winner within the IHG One Rewards portfolio.
Grand Hyatt Taipei
This stalwart of a hotel continues to be the very reason why I continue to hold Hyatt free night certificates. Globalists are treated like royalty here and the breakfast buffet is one of the very best in Taiwan, with only the Regent Taipei as its only immediate rival. This is a fantastic redemption for those with the Hyatt free night certificate (Cat 1-4) or 15,000 Hyatt points.
The 1st international hotel to land in Taipei, Taiwan 25 years ago, the Grand Hyatt Taipei continues to provide luxury service as it continues its rounds of renovations. This hotel continues to draw international clientele from all over due to its expansive fitness center, a salon, spa, heated outdoor pool, lounge, 9 restaurants and a ton of massive conference spaces. The fitness center is one of the biggest in the country, with it sprawling over 40,000 square feet. You won’t have a problem finding equipment, that’s for sure!
It is still my #1 choice of Hyatt free night certificate redemptions, for many reasons:
Spectacular Breakfast Buffet: The Grand Hyatt Taipei offers a breakfast experience that's nothing short of exceptional, and one that can easily knock you into a morning nap if you’re not careful! The buffet is a culinary feast, with an array of international and local dishes that cater to every palate. From freshly steamed dim sum to Taiwanese favorites like the egg pancakes and breakfast sandwiches to made-to-order omelets, it's a perfect start to the day. The quality and variety of options truly make it a standout feature, and is only rivaled by the Regent Taipei.
Extensive Amenities: For folks that love to exercise, the hotel boasts an impressive range of amenities that cater to both leisure and business travelers. The fitness center is well-equipped, and the spa provides a sanctuary of relaxation. It's perfect for those seeking to unwind after a busy day of exploring Taipei or attending meetings. If you want to swim, go for it! It’s heated all year round.
Exceptional Value: One of the most appealing aspects of the Grand Hyatt Taipei in the World of Hyatt loyalty program is the value it offers in terms of points redemption. At just 15,000 points per night, it's a fantastic deal. Considering the typical cash rate of over $300 a night, redeeming points at this rate is a smart choice for budget-conscious travelers who want to experience luxury without breaking the bank.
In summary, the Grand Hyatt Taipei is a superb redemption choice in the World of Hyatt program. The exceptional breakfast buffet, extensive amenities, and outstanding point value make it one of the most attractive option for travelers looking to make the most of their World of Hyatt hotel program.
W Taipei
The influencer’s choice. Just kidding. The W Taipei is still one of the most sought after hotels in Taipei, and with various reasons. Unbeatable views, similar locations to Le Meridien Taipei and the Grand Hyatt Taipei, and the W presence is something that a lot of aspirational travelers look forward to. IT’s a great use of 65,000 Marriott points, though sometimes you may find reward nights even cheaper!
Opened back in 2011, this lavish and bright hotel quickly became one of the hottest hotels in town, mastering the art of bold luxury, contemporary designs and a top bar in Taiwan that is now destination for some of the top celebrities in Taipei. The W Taipei stands out as a great redemption choice within the Marriott Bonvoy program. (Though the Le Meridien Taipei may be slightly better for those with families)
Its prime location is a major draw. Situated in the heart of Taipei's vibrant Xinyi District, this hotel offers unrivaled access to the city's most iconic attractions, upscale shopping, and a dynamic nightlife scene. It's a true urban oasis that makes exploring the city a breeze. In addition, the exquisite rooms at the W Taipei elevate the stay to a luxurious experience. With their contemporary design, stunning city views, and top-notch amenities, they effortlessly blend style with comfort.
In summary, the W Taipei is an great alternative to the Le Meridien Taipei in the Xinyi District, and is fantastic when redeeming certificates are available. Its central location, exquisite rooms, and the favorable points vs. cash ratio still makes it a great redemption choice. Whether you're exploring Taipei or seeking a luxurious escape, this hotel seamlessly combines convenience and style for an unforgettable stay.