From the towering Taipei 101 to the serene beauty of Taroko Gorge, Taiwan is a unique place.
Whether you’re sampling street food at a busy night market or soaking in a mountainside hot spring, it’s an exciting and fascinating place to explore.
Despite its compact size, the island is packed with experiences. Ancient traditions meet cutting-edge modernity. You can hike lush mountains by day and indulge in world-class cuisine by night.
Vibrant cities, stunning natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage – Taiwan has it all.
In this Taiwan travel guide, I’ll walk you through the top places to visit, helping you experience the island’s authentic charm and avoid tourist traps.
From the lively streets of Taipei to the tranquil shores of Sun Moon Lake, here’s how to make the most of your trip.
Need help planning your next trip? Hire me as your Personal Travel Planner!
Table of Contents
Toggle- Where to Stay in Taiwan
- My Favourite Things to Do in Taiwan
- 1. Visit Taipei 101
- 2. Admire the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
- 3. Indulge at Taiwan’s Night Markets
- 4. Hike in Taroko National Park
- 5. Relax in Yangmingshan National Park
- 6. Explore Sun Moon Lake
- 7. Discover the Temples and Unique Atmosphere of Tainan
- The Best Time to Visit Taiwan
- How Long Do You Need in Taiwan?
- FAQs About Visiting Taiwan
- Is Taiwan safe for travellers?
- What should I pack for a trip to Taiwan?
- How do I get around Taiwan?
- Final Thoughts
Where to Stay in Taiwan
For first-time visitors, Taipei is the perfect base. The city has a wide range of accommodation options to suit all budgets, from sleek hotels to cosy boutique stays.
In the Ximending District, known as the “Harajuku of Taipei,” you’ll find a vibrant atmosphere full of shops, restaurants, and nightlife. If you like being in the centre of the action, Ximending is a great choice.
For a quieter stay, consider the Daan District. This area is more residential, with boutique hotels and guesthouses. It’s relaxed yet still close to Taipei’s main attractions.
Getting around Taipei is easy, thanks to its excellent MRT system. Wherever you stay, the city’s highlights are just a short ride away. Uber is popular and affordable, too.
If you have extra time, I also recommend spending a few days in Tainan to experience a totally different side of Taiwan.
My Favourite Things to Do in Taiwan
1. Visit Taipei 101
No trip to Taiwan is complete without a visit to Taipei 101, one of the world’s tallest buildings and an icon of modern Taipei.
Take the high-speed elevator to the 89th-floor observation deck for panoramic views of the city and surrounding mountains. On a clear day, the views are breathtaking.
After taking in the sights, head to the basement level to dine at the original Din Tai Fung restaurant. Their xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) are legendary.
Don’t be surprised if there’s a queue, but trust me, it’s worth the wait.
You can also grab a virtual queue number to reserve yourself a place in the line, then head off and grab a drink while you wait.
2. Admire the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall is one of Taipei’s most iconic landmarks, surrounded by tranquil gardens, ponds, and pavilions.
The grand white-marble hall, with its blue-tiled roof and towering statue of Chiang Kai-shek, is a striking symbol of Taiwan’s cultural heritage and political history.
Don’t miss the hourly changing of the guard, an impressive ceremony of precision and tradition.
Inside, you’ll find a museum detailing the life and legacy of Chiang Kai-shek, as well as other exhibits on Taiwan’s history.
3. Indulge at Taiwan’s Night Markets
Exploring Taiwan’s night markets is an essential part of any visit. Two of my favourites are Raohe Street Night Market and Shilin Night Market, both in Taipei.
Raohe Street Night Market is more traditional and compact. It’s perfect for sampling local favourites like black pepper buns (incredible), grilled squid, various noodle and rice dishes, and a range of sweet treats.
If you’re feeling adventurous, this is also a great place to try Taiwan’s infamous stinky tofu. I tried hard to like it, though I never quite succeeded. Maybe you’ll have better luck.
Shilin Night Market is the largest and most famous night market in Taiwan. It offers everything from oyster omelettes, scallion pancakes, and beef noodle soup to clothing and souvenirs.
Both markets are a feast for the senses and a great way to experience the energy of Taiwanese street food culture.
4. Hike in Taroko National Park
Taroko National Park is a highlight of any trip to Taiwan. It’s home to the dramatic Taroko Gorge, one of Taiwan’s most breathtaking natural wonders.
Towering marble cliffs, crystal-clear rivers, hilltop pagodas, and lush greenery make this a must-visit destination.
Try the Shakadang Trail for an easy but rewarding hike along the river. For a more adventurous trek, tackle the Zhuilu Old Trail, which offers breathtaking views from its cliffside path.
Taroko Gorge is an adventurer’s dream, but it’s also perfect for a leisurely day out. Whether you’re an avid hiker or just want to soak in the scenery, it’s an unforgettable place.
5. Relax in Yangmingshan National Park
Just outside Taipei, Yangmingshan National Park is a peaceful escape known for its hot springs, volcanic landscapes, and seasonal beauty.
Don’t miss the Beitou Hot Springs, where you can soak in therapeutic waters surrounded by nature.
You can also explore the Sulfur Valley Recreation Area, with its bubbling springs and steaming vents.
Yangmingshan is also famous for its cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. There are many trails of varying lengths that are great ways to take in the scenery.
6. Explore Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake is another of Taiwan’s most picturesque destinations, surrounded by misty mountains and calm, reflective waters.
Cycle along the lakeside bike path or take a boat tour to explore landmarks like Wenwu Temple and Lalu Island. Stroll the trails or enjoy a cup of locally grown tea at a waterfront café.
Just outside the village of Ita Thao, the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway offers a spectacular ride up into the hills, with aerial views of the lake and its surrounding dense forests.
At the top station, you can either return to the lake or take a connecting cable car to the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village, an amusement park located in the next valley.
While I didn’t have time to visit, I’ve heard mixed reviews. Some people I spoke to felt the representation of Indigenous culture was overly commercialised and lacked authenticity.
As I haven’t been, I’ll reserve judgment. But if you’ve visited, I’d love to hear your thoughts.
7. Discover the Temples and Unique Atmosphere of Tainan
As Taiwan’s oldest city, Tainan is a treasure trove of history and culture.
Tainan’s temples offer a glimpse into the island’s spiritual heritage, and the city’s ancient streets are full of surprises.
Visit the Chihkan Tower, a former Dutch outpost, and the Tainan Confucius Temple, one of the oldest in Taiwan.
Try to spend a day or so wandering the narrow maze of backstreets between Qingnian Road and Kaishan Road. This is where I lived during my time in Tainan, and it has a magical atmosphere.
Tainan is also a food lover’s paradise. Be sure to try danzai noodles, coffin bread, and the city’s famous milkfish dishes.
Old House 1933 (老厝1933) is one of my favourite restaurants in Tainan and a local favourite. It’s an old-school Taiwanese-style barbecue place set inside an incredible old wooden house.
This intimate Japanese-style izakaya serves some of the best Japanese food ever in traditional wooden surroundings. The staff are super friendly too, and happy to recommend their favourite dishes and sakes.
The Best Time to Visit Taiwan
Taiwan is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your plans.
In spring (March to May), you can expect mild weather and blooming flowers, including cherry blossoms in the mountains – perfect for hiking and outdoor activities.
Autumn (September to November) offers cooler temperatures and low humidity, great for exploring cities and the countryside.
Summer (June to August) is best for beaches and islands, though expect heat, humidity, and occasional typhoons.
Winter (December to February) is great for hot springs, festivals, and quieter sightseeing.
How Long Do You Need in Taiwan?
To fully experience Taiwan, I recommend spending at least two weeks on the island.
This gives you enough time to experience Taipei, visit Taroko National Park, unwind at Sun Moon Lake, and discover the magic of Tainan.
If you’re short on time, a week in Taiwan can still give you a good overview. However, you’ll need to be selective and prepared for a more fast-paced itinerary.
For those with even more time, Taiwan rewards slow travel. You could easily spend a month here or more, discovering lesser-known towns and other hidden gems.
FAQs About Visiting Taiwan
Is Taiwan safe for travellers?
Yes, Taiwan is one of the safest destinations in Asia. Crime rates are low, and public transport is reliable. Petty theft is rare, but staying mindful of your belongings is always a good idea.
What should I pack for a trip to Taiwan?
For a trip to Taiwan, pack comfortable clothing, sturdy walking shoes, and an umbrella for sudden rain showers. Bring sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and any medication you need. If visiting in winter, pack warmer layers, especially for northern regions and higher altitudes.
How do I get around Taiwan?
Taiwan has excellent public transport, and getting around is easy and affordable. High-speed trains connect major cities, while regional trains and buses reach smaller towns. The Taipei MRT is excellent, and Uber is great for shorter journeys. Hiring a car is fairly straightforward, although you typically need an International Driver’s Permit (IDP).
Final Thoughts
Taiwan is a unique destination with a mix of tradition, modernity, and natural wonder.
Whether you’re hiking through marble gorges, relaxing in hot springs, or indulging in the culinary delights of a night market, Taiwan offers a travel experience that’s both authentic and unforgettable.
If you’re looking to escape the crowds and discover a different side of Asia, Taiwan should be at the top of your list.
