Planning a trip to Taipei and considering Miramar Garden Hotel? Located in the Dazhi district, this hotel offers a blend of modern comfort and convenient access to attractions like the Miramar Entertainment Park and the iconic Ferris wheel. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know—from room types and amenities to nearby food options and common booking mistakes. Whether you’re a solo traveler or a family, these insights will help you decide if this hotel fits your needs.
Location & Surroundings: What to Expect
Miramar Garden Hotel sits in the Dazhi area, about a 10-minute drive from Taipei Songshan Airport. The nearest MRT station is Dazhi (Brown Line), which is a 7-minute walk. From there, you can reach Taipei Main Station in 20 minutes without transfers. The hotel is directly connected to the Miramar Shopping Mall and Ferris wheel, making it a great spot for shopping and entertainment. However, if you prefer quieter neighborhoods, note that the area can get busy on weekends. For first-timers, download an MRT map in advance and consider buying an EasyCard for seamless travel.
Room Types & Amenities: Which One to Choose?
The hotel offers standard double rooms, deluxe suites, and family rooms. Standard rooms (about 30 sqm) come with a king or twin beds, a work desk, and a city view. Deluxe suites add a separate living area and bathtub. Family rooms can accommodate up to four with two double beds. All rooms have free Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, minibar, and tea/coffee maker. A common mistake is booking a standard room and expecting a view of the Ferris wheel—only rooms on higher floors facing the mall have that. If the view matters, select “Ferris wheel view” during booking. Also, check if your room includes breakfast; the buffet costs around $20 per person if paid separately.
Dining Options: On-Site Restaurants & Nearby Eats
The hotel houses two restaurants: a Chinese restaurant (Sea Palace) and a Western buffet (Cafe). Sea Palace serves dim sum and Cantonese dishes, while Cafe offers international buffet breakfast and dinner. If you’re on a budget, skip the hotel breakfast and walk to the nearby Dazhi Night Market (10 minutes) for local eats like scallion pancakes and stinky tofu. For coffee lovers, there’s a Starbucks in the mall. One tip: the hotel’s buffet dinner is pricey and average; instead, try the food court in the Miramar mall for more variety at lower prices.
Booking Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
When booking, compare prices on the hotel’s official website versus third-party sites like Agoda or Booking.com. Sometimes the hotel offers perks like late checkout or room upgrades when booking direct. A common pitfall is not checking the cancellation policy—some non-refundable rates save money but lock you in. Also, be aware that the hotel charges a deposit for incidentals (around $50 per night) which is refunded at checkout. If you’re arriving late, inform the hotel in advance to avoid your reservation being canceled. For families, request extra bedding early as they have limited rollaway beds.
Nearby Attractions & Activities
Besides the Miramar Ferris wheel (open until 11 PM), the hotel is close to the Dazhi Riverside Park, perfect for evening walks or cycling. The National Palace Museum is a 15-minute taxi ride away. For shopping, the Miramar mall has a cinema, arcade, and international brands. If you want to explore nightlife, the bars in the Dazhi area are limited; better to head to Xinyi District (20 minutes by MRT). Pro tip: rent a YouBike from the station near the hotel to explore the riverside bike path—it’s scenic and free for the first 30 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the hotel close to Taipei 101?
A: It’s about 20 minutes by MRT (transfer at Daan or Taipei Main Station). Not walking distance.
Q: Does the hotel have a pool or gym?
A: Yes, there’s a small outdoor pool (seasonal) and a 24-hour fitness center. The pool is open from May to October.
Q: Can I check in early?
A: Early check-in is subject to availability. You can request at booking, but it’s not guaranteed. Luggage storage is free.
Q: Is there parking?
A: Yes, the hotel has a parking lot for guests (charges apply). It’s best to reserve a spot in advance.
Final Verdict: Is Miramar Garden Hotel Worth It?
Miramar Garden Hotel is a solid mid-range choice for travelers who want proximity to shopping and entertainment without being in the city center. The rooms are clean and comfortable, though a bit dated in decor. The main draws are the location next to the Ferris wheel and mall, and the easy MRT access. It’s not the cheapest option, but if you book during off-peak seasons (avoid Chinese New Year and summer holidays), you can get good value. For first-timers, avoid booking a standard room without a view, and explore nearby eateries for better food. Overall, it’s a reliable choice—just go in with the right expectations.