Taipei has excellent dining and entertainment facilities, and a lively night life. There are many restaurants serving food from every region of China and from around the world, clubs, cinemas beer houses, karaoke bars and restaurants, although expatriates report that theatres are lacking. Taipei is also a major retail centre, with options ranging from the many popular night markets to high-class shopping malls.

There is a lively expatriate social scene in Taipei, with many social functions and events organized regularly by expatriate associations, trade organizations and international schools.

Taiwan also has many colourful festivals throughout the year, including Chinese New Year, the Lantern Festival, Dragon Boat Festival and Mid-Autumn Moon Festival.

Favoured leisure pastimes for expatriates in Taiwan include hiking in the scenic national parks, diving or snorkelling among the coral reefs off the southeast coast, or soaking in the hot mineral springs which are found all over the island.

Basketball and baseball are reportedly the most popular sports in Taiwan, with golf also becoming increasingly popular. Other sports played by many Taiwanese people include badminton, volleyball, football and tennis.