If you’re heading to Taipei and looking for a touch of luxury, Palais de Chine is a standout. When I first walked into the hotel, it was clear this place was going to deliver on its five-star promise. It’s chic, sophisticated, and has an undeniable European vibe that makes it feel different from your average Taipei hotel.
** Disclaimer: This was a press trip in collaboration with the Taiwan Tourism Bureau but all thoughts and opinions are my own.
So, let’s dive into what makes this place special and why it’s worth considering for your stay in Taiwan’s busy capital.
First Impressions
Walking into the lobby, you immediately feel like you’ve stepped into a Parisian hotel. The elegant design, plush seating and dim lighting scream luxury. But, it’s not stuffy. There’s a warm and welcoming feel. The staff greeted us with big smiles and were quick to check us in. They even offered a refreshing tea while we waited, which was much needed after a long flight.
The Rooms
Our room? Wow. Think modern elegance with a traditional touch. The decor blends European classicism with Asian influences. It’s all about rich textures, dark woods and soft lighting. The bed was super comfortable – perfect for a good night’s sleep after a busy day exploring the city. In fact, I fell into a really deep sleep and missed my alarm the next morning!
And the bathroom? A spa-like experience with a deep-soaking tub, rain shower and luxury toiletries. I spent far too long in there, but who wouldn’t?
What really stood out was the attention to detail. From the luxurious linens to the little touches like Nespresso machines and fresh fruit on arrival, you could tell this hotel goes above and beyond for its guests.
Location
One of the best things about Palais de Chine is its location. You’re literally steps away from Taipei Main Station, which makes getting around the city a breeze. Whether you’re hopping on the MRT to visit Taipei 101 or heading to the famous night markets, it’s all really convenient.
Plus, if you’re up for some retail therapy, the hotel is connected to a massive shopping mall, so you can shop to your heart’s content without even leaving the building. I had a blast during our downtime and stocked up on my Taiwanese and Japanese skincare.
Dining
Foodies, you’re in for a treat. The hotel has a few dining options, but let me tell you about the breakfast buffet. It’s huge. There’s a mix of Western and Asian dishes, so you can start your day with anything from a traditional Taiwanese breakfast to a full English spread. Fresh fruit, pastries, made-to-order omelettes, dim sum – you name it, they had it. It was the perfect fuel for a day of sightseeing.
We didn’t get the chance to eat at Le Palais, the hotel’s Michelin-starred restaurant. But if you’re into fine dining, you’ll want to book a table here. I took a sneak peak as we were heading out for the evening. The dishes were beautifully presented. It’s probably worth splashing the cash on this occasion.
Amenities
This hotel has all the amenities you’d expect from a five-star property. Although it doesn’t have a pool, the gym is fully equipped for a good workout (if you’re into that on holiday). There’s also a business centre for those mixing work with pleasure and the hotel’s event spaces are stunning if you’re planning something a bit more formal.
Service
The service at Palais de Chine really stood out. The staff were not only professional but genuinely helpful and friendly. Need a dinner recommendation? They’ve got you. Struggling with directions? They’ll sort you out. I even got a hand-written note from the housekeeping team wishing us a pleasant stay, which was such a lovely touch.
And for those of you who are worried about language barriers, don’t be. The staff speak excellent English, which made things much easier.
What Makes Palais de Chine Special?
What I loved about Palais de Chine is that it combines old-world luxury with modern comforts. It’s the perfect mix of elegance and warmth. Whether you’re staying for a quick city break or a longer trip, you’ll feel pampered from the moment you walk through the door. Now, the moody interiors might not be everyone’s cup of tea but I loved the elegance and charm of this hotel.
For those traveling as a couple, this hotel is super romantic. Between the chic design, the intimate ambiance and the luxurious touches, it’s ideal for a couples’ getaway. But even if you’re traveling solo or on business, the calm, luxurious vibe is still spot-on.
Final Thoughts
Would I stay here again? Absolutely. Palais de Chine hits all the right notes for a luxury stay in Taipei. It’s chic, stylish and super comfortable, with amazing service and unbeatable location. Whether you’re here for sightseeing, shopping or just relaxing, this hotel will make your trip that little bit more special. It’s expensive but trust me, it’s worth it.
So, if you’re heading to Taipei and want a luxurious stay with a European twist, give Palais de Chine a try. You won’t be disappointed.
While you’re here, why not check out my guide on the exciting things to do in Taipei? If you’re exploring more of Taiwan, you might want to check out Taichung, right in the centre of Taiwan.
