Originally Posted by
mettaworldpeace
Will be in Taipei for a one-night layover, so taking a chance to see the city. Trying to decide between the Courtyard Nangang and the Courtyard Downtown - which one should I go for? Primary consideration is easy access to the airport (preferably by train), and secondly easy public transport access to food/attractions (mainly the Palace Museum).
One night is simply not enough for Taipei! I would not recommend national palace on a one day trip, it's far from the city center and not that convenient from either location (requires multiple transfers or a taxi ride).
But to answer your question, it really depends. Nangang is a bit farther from the airport but actually more convienient (assuming you're flying into Tayoan not Songshan) but there is a direct charter bus (bus 1843) for about 5$. You can also take the airport MRT to Taipei Main Station and transfer to the High Speed Rail to Nangang Station. Courtyard Nangang is directly on top of the Nangang Station with rail, HSR, MRT, and bus stops. Haven't stayed at Downtown Courtyard, but the surrounding area is more lively with alot of tourist attractions and good restaurants in Zhongshan district. Nangang is a bit more residential and requires MRT/HSR to go anywhere you'd want.
Piece of advice: Skip out on Shilin (the most famous tourist trap night market) and either go to Ningxia (closer to Downtown CY) or Raohe (closer to Nangang) night market.
If you have more questions lmk, love Taipei very much!