Taiwan is likely one of the most iconic journey locations in Asia. Once you see a photograph of Taipei 101, you’ll instantly realize it’s Taiwan. However except for this constructing that was as soon as the tallest on this planet, Taiwan has so much to supply to vacationers. From wealthy cultural heritage, to trendy cityscape, to gorgeous pure landscapes, it attracts vacationers who’re eager about completely different sorts of journey. Whether or not you’re seeking to hike by scenic trails, go to temples, or eat your coronary heart out at night time markets, this island will certainly provide you with a visit to recollect.
Taiwan was our final vacation spot earlier than the pandemic unfold all over the world and earlier than nations closed their borders. In actual fact, we even acquired stranded right here due to it! So once we felt that journey goes again to regular, it simply felt proper to make Taiwan our first overseas vacation spot.
And now, we’re sharing with you a pattern itinerary that you may comply with particularly if it’s your first time in Taiwan.
Be aware: This isn’t the precise itinerary we had for our journey. But when it’s your first time and also you wish to expertise so much in Taipei, this itinerary is what we extremely advocate.
DAY 1: TAIPEI CITY CENTER
Arrival
- Landing Airport. Once you land on the airport, you may alternate cash or withdraw Taiwan {dollars} from the ATM so you might have native forex immediately. You too can purchase a SIM card or choose one up for those who pre-ordered on-line, so that you’re related as quickly as you arrive. Listed here are two choices from Klook!
- Make your approach to the town middle. Should you’re on a DIY journey, you may take the practice or experience a bus to succeed in your resort. However for those who’re with a much bigger group, touring with seniors, or simply desire a smoother journey, you may guide a tour bundle with a good company in Taiwan like Edison Excursions, and even from the Philippines.
- Examine in at resort. Should you arrive too early to verify in, drop off your luggage on the resort and begin exploring.
Because it’s your first time, it’s greatest to see Taipei metropolis middle’s must-visit points of interest.
Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Corridor
In-built 1976 to honor one in all Taiwan’s most essential figures, the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Corridor homes an enormous statue of him in the principle chamber, with a museum and library on the decrease degree.
Tackle: No.21, Zhongshan S. Street, Zhongzheng District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C)
Nearest MRT Station: Chiang Kai-shek (CKS) Memorial Corridor Station (Crimson Line 2 or Inexperienced Line 3)
Open: Day by day, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Charge: FREE
Solar Yat-sen Memorial Corridor
One other landmark constructed to honor one in all Taiwan’s founding figures is the Solar Yat-sen Memorial Corridor. Solar Yat-sen is broadly thought to be the Father of the Nation, and this website celebrates his legacy with a grand statue, displays, and spacious grounds excellent for a leisurely stroll.
Tackle: No. 505, Part 4, Ren’ai Street, Xinyi District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C)
Nearest MRT Station: Solar Yat-sen (SYS) Memorial Corridor Station (Blue Line 5)
Open: Day by day, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Charge: FREEBe aware: Since February 2024, the corridor is briefly closed for upkeep. It’s anticipated to reopen in 2026.
Taipei 101
Taipei 101 is probably the most iconic attraction in Taipei. From 2004 to 2012, it held the title of the world’s tallest constructing till it was surpassed by the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. On the high, there’s an observatory the place you may get pleasure from breathtaking panoramic views of the capital.
You may safe your ticket upfront on-line by accredited reserving websites like Klook!
✅ GET YOUR TAIPEI 101 TICKET HERE!
Tackle: No. 7, Part 5, Xinyi Street, Xinyi District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Nearest MRT Station: Taipei 101 Station (Crimson Line 2)
Hours open: Day by day, 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Entrance Charge: NT$600
Elephant Mountain
Whereas the Taipei 101 Observatory provides an unbelievable view of the town, the perfect vantage level is definitely from Elephant Mountain. Most of the metropolis’s iconic postcard pictures had been possible taken right here. The best time to go to is late afternoon so you may benefit from the skyline by day, catch the sundown, and see the town gentle up at night time. Simply take note, it does require a little bit of a climb, so it may not be appropriate for these with mobility considerations.
Path Head: Lane 150, Xinyi Street, Part 5, Xinyi District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Nearest MRT Station: Xiàngshān Station (Crimson Line 2)
Entrance Charge: FREE
Ximending
Ximending is Taipei’s youth district, identified for its vibrant leisure, eating, and procuring scene. It actually comes alive at night time — shiny, bustling, and filled with power. Consider it as Taipei’s model of Tokyo’s Harajuku. You’ll discover international model shops, bars, cafes, and golf equipment right here.
The preferred space is Ximen Walker Road, all the time filled with each vacationers and locals. There are additionally tons of meals choices round, making it an excellent place to seize dinner and wrap up your day.
Location: Ximending, Wanhua District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Nearest Station: Ximen Station (Blue Line 5 or Inexperienced Line 3)
Entrance Charge: FREE
DAY 2: NEW TAIPEI CITY
After exploring Taipei Metropolis, it’s time to go to New Taipei Metropolis. Although it’s a separate municipality, it’s typically grouped with Taipei Metropolis as a part of the Better Taipei Metropolitan Space. Due to an environment friendly transportation system and each cities being progressive, you may not even discover that they’re completely different cities.
In your second day, let’s change issues up and escape the skyscrapers and procuring malls. Journey to the countryside, visiting the charming districts of Ruifang, Pingxi, and Wanli.
Yehliu Geopark
Situated on the northernmost tip of Taiwan, the Yehliu Geopark is known for its hanging rock formations, set towards the backdrop of highly effective waves. It’s no shock that this spot is a favourite for photographers and vacationers alike.
Nonetheless, it’s a bit out of the way in which in comparison with different points of interest. Should you’re doing it DIY-style, be conscious that the journey to the subsequent cease may take round two hours. To save lots of time, we advocate becoming a member of a tour, which minimizes switch and ready instances. With out stops, it’s solely a couple of 45-minute to one-hour drive to the subsequent vacation spot.
Klook provides a day tour that features Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, and Shifen, amongst others. This covers transportation, insurance coverage, and an English-speaking information.
✅ BOOK NEW TAIPEI DAY TOUR HERE!
For may also buy your entrance ticket forward of time on-line right here:
✅ GET YOUR YEHLIU GEOPARK TICKET HERE!
Tackle: No. 167-1, Gangdong Street, Wanli District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Entrance Charge: Grownup, NT$120; Little one (6-12 y/o), NT$60
Jiufen Previous Road
That is like stepping right into a scene from Spirited Away. Whereas it wasn’t the precise inspiration for Hayao Miyazaki’s movie, many say the city’s ambiance strongly evokes the enchanting ambiance of the animated world.
As soon as a gold mining city, Jiufen Previous Road is now well-known for its teahouse tradition and charming streets. It’s a pleasant place to discover. You may browse for souvenirs, get pleasure from tea or espresso in cozy cafés, or savor a meal in one in all its quaint eating places. Standard spots embody Jiufen Previous Road, Shengping Theater, the Gold Mine Museum, Mount Keelung Path, and numerous scenic viewpoints.
Location: Ruifang District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Learn how to Get to Jiufen: From Taipei Principal Station, take a practice going to Ruifang Station. Alongside Mingdeng Street is a bus station (Native Residents Plaza) with routes heading towards Jiufen. Take bus Route 827 or 788. Going again to Taipei metropolis, take bus Route 1062.
Houtong Cat Village
Should you’re a cat lover, the Houtong Cat Village is a must-visit! Situated only a 15- to 20-minute drive from Jiufen, this former coal-mining city has remodeled right into a cat haven. In 2008, an area photographer captured the heartwarming sight of residents caring for deserted cats. Since then, the village has attracted cat fanatics from all around the globe.
Apart from the cute cats, you’ll discover statues and cat-themed memento retailers. The village itself is fantastically scenic, nestled between a stream and a railway. And for those who’re feeling hungry, there are many snack stalls to get pleasure from some native treats.
Location: Ruifang District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Learn how to Get to Houtong Cat Village: If coming from Jiufen, take the practice to from Ruifang Station to Houtong Station. From Taipei Principal Station, take a practice going to Ruifang Station. Then, switch to Pingxi Line to Houtong Station. One other means is to take a direct native practice from Taipei Principal Station to Houtong Station.
Shifen Waterfall
This space can be an excellent lunch cease since there are many eating places and meals stalls round. However for those who’re doing a DIY journey, be prepared for some strolling. The closest practice cease is Shifen Station, which is a couple of 25-minute stroll from the beginning of the path. From there, it’s one other 15 to twenty minutes to succeed in the principle viewing deck.
That’s why becoming a member of a tour is a brilliant possibility, particularly for those who’re touring with seniors or youngsters. Tour buses can park nearer to the strolling path, making the journey a lot shorter and extra comfy. Alongside the way in which, you’ll go by stalls promoting snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. A few of the refreshments and bites you’ll discover are milk tea, lemon tea, recent fruits, and crowd pleasing atis (sugar apples) which are surprisingly enormous!
When you resist all of the meals temptations, you’ll attain the first viewpoint close to the cascade, which is ideal for pictures. However for the perfect angle, proceed alongside the path till you attain the predominant viewing platform for Shifen Falls. Simply take note there are stairs, so it is probably not appropriate for these with mobility considerations.
Location: Pingxi District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Learn how to Get to Shifen Waterfalls: From Taipei Principal Station, take a practice going to Ruifang Station. Then, switch to Pingxi Line to Shifen Station. From there, you’ll attain the waterfalls in about 25 minutes on foot.
Shifen Previous Road
Shifen Previous Road is the place you’ll discover the iconic railway observe that serves as the location for releasing sky lanterns. Should you resolve to attempt the exercise, you’ll begin by writing your needs or messages on the lantern. When you’re performed, a employees member will assist gentle it up, and you may watch it slowly rise and drift away with the wind.
The Pingxi District is known for its Sky Lantern Pageant, held in the course of the first lunar month — normally in February. However you don’t have to attend for the competition to expertise this! Guests can launch sky lanterns year-round for a payment. After all, it’s not for everybody. Should you are inclined to surprise the place these lanterns find yourself after they fall, you would possibly wish to skip it. However there are nonetheless loads of different issues to get pleasure from, like purchasing for souvenirs or sampling snacks from the stalls that line the tracks.
Location: Pingxi District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Learn how to Get to Shifen Previous Road: From Taipei Principal Station, take a practice going to Ruifang Station. Then, switch to Pingxi Line to Shifen Station. The railway tracks run alongside the Shifen Previous Road.
Raohe Evening Market
After the tour, it’s time to go again to the town. For dinner, head to Raohe Evening Market, one of many oldest and most iconic night time markets in Taipei. As of writing, 4 meals stalls right here have Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition — an award given to eateries that serve nice meals at a very good worth.
We had been in a position to attempt two of them. Probably the most well-known is the Fuzhou Black Pepper Buns, identified for his or her crispy, charcoal-baked pork buns cooked in a standard brick oven. One other must-try is the Chen Dong Pork Ribs Medical Herbs Soup. It might seem like largely bones, however the meat is extremely tender and falls proper off. It’s heat, comforting, and flavorful. And when you’re right here, be courageous and check out the infamous pungent tofu, or snack on skewers from the numerous distributors. Then cap off your night time with a traditional Taiwanese milk tea!
Tackle: Raohe Road, Songshan District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Nearest Station: Songshan Station (Inexperienced Line 3)
Open: Day by day, 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Entrance Charge: FREE
DAY 3: NORTH TAIPEI TOUR
On the third day, let’s head north! This space is nonetheless inside Taipei Metropolis, nevertheless it’s extra on the countryside, away from the busy metropolis middle. Listed here are the attainable stops.
Yangmingshan Nationwide Park
Straddling Taipei and New Taipei Metropolis, Yangmingshan is one in all Taiwan’s 9 nationwide parks. It’s an excellent vacation spot for nature lovers and out of doors fanatics. The park’s most iconic function is Qixing Mountain, the tallest dormant volcano in Taiwan, surrounded by scenic climbing trails.
Most guests discover the western aspect of the park, which is probably the most accessible and tourist-friendly. Certainly one of its well-known landmarks is the flower clock, a favourite picture spot. Should you’re hoping to see cherry blossoms, this is likely one of the greatest locations in Taiwan. Simply be sure that to go to throughout the fitting season. The remainder of the 12 months, the park nonetheless bursts with coloration — because of peach blossoms, plum blossoms, azalea, and thorn apples.
Soar-off Level: Yangmingshan Nationwide Park Customer Middle, No. 1-20, Zhuzihu Street, Beitou District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Learn how to Get to Yangmingshan Nationwide Park: From Taipei Principal Station, take Bus 260 to Yangmingshan Nationwide Park Bus Station. It’s only a brief stroll to the customer middle, which additionally serves as the principle entrance to the park.
Beitou Scorching Spring Park
Beitou District is a identified sizzling springs hotspot. Tucked between its peaks are valleys the place nutrient-rich, steamy waters bubble up from underground. It’s a scenic space, particularly round Beitou Scorching Spring Park, which regularly appears mystical when blanketed in steam.
Should you select to go to one of many many public sizzling springs or spas, you may take a calming stroll by the park and soak within the environment — actually. Should you’re brief on time, at the least attempt the native tea eggs, a preferred snack typically bought across the space. It’s a singular mixture of nature, wellness, and native taste multi functional spot.
Location: Beitou District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Learn how to Get to Beitou Scorching Spring Park: Relying in your itinerary, you may alight at any of those practice stations in Beitou from Taipei Principal Station: Beitou Station, Xinbeitou Station, Zhongyi Station, Qiyan Station, Fuxinggang Station, Guandu Station, Qilian Station, Mingde Station, and Shipai Station
Nationwide Palace Museum
The Nationwide Palace Museum holds a group of round 700,000 artifacts, some courting again 1000’s of years! However right here’s the kicker — solely about 1% of that’s truly on show. The remainder? Safely tucked away in vaults below tight safety.
The gathering is so large that it’s onerous to wrap your head round. We’re speaking about 6,000 bronze items, 3,000 calligraphy works, and numerous gems, carvings, and textiles, amongst others. All of them showcase the depth and richness of Chinese language tradition and historical past. Should you’re planning to dive deep, get able to spend hours inside exploring.
Tackle: No. 221, Sec 2, Zhi Shan Rd, Shilin District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan
Nearest MRT Station: Shilin Station (Crimson Line – 2), then take Bus R30 (NT$15)
Hours Open: Day by day 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Entrance Charge: NT$350
Shilin Evening Market
Unfold throughout two ranges, Shilin Evening Market is the biggest night time market in Taipei. On the bottom ground and close by alleys, you’ll largely discover memento retailers and attire shops.
However head right down to the basement, and prepare to really feel hungry, even for those who simply ate. The mouthwatering aroma hits immediately. It’s a maze of about 540 meals stalls and eateries providing native favorites like fried squid, grilled hen tails, breaded hen, Taiwanese sausages, fried buns, and oyster omelette. Better of all, it’s conveniently situated proper subsequent to the MRT station.
Tackle: No. 101, Jihe Street, Shilin District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Nearest MRT Station: Jiantan Station (Crimson Line – 2)
Finest Time to Go to: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Entrance Charge: FREE
DAY 4: CHILLIN’ AND SHOPPIN’
Don’t skip Taipei’s café tradition in your final day! Whereas Taiwan is historically identified for its tea, espresso has now taken the lead because the locals’ drink of selection. In actual fact, Taiwan boasts one of many highest concentrations of cafés on this planet. You’ll positively discover this in energetic areas like Ximending, the place cafés — each international chains and quirky specialty retailers — appear to pop up on each nook.
Fong Da Espresso
One café you shouldn’t miss is Fong Da Espresso, mentioned to be the primary to serve iced espresso in Taiwan means again in 1956. Whereas most cafés right this moment intention for a classy, Instagrammable vibe, it stands out by embracing its classic allure and sticking to its old-school roots with delight.
Tackle: No. 42, Chengdu Street, Wanhua District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Opening Hours: Day by day, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Trendy Rest room
After all, milk tea isn’t taking a backseat! Taiwan is the undisputed bubble tea capital of the world. Most of the most recognizable milk tea manufacturers, like CoCo and ShareTea, had been both born right here or have their headquarters within the nation. However for those who’re searching for a milk tea expertise that’s actually unforgettable (and a little bit bizarre), head to Trendy Rest room.
This quirky café-restaurant has been doling out hilariously “crappy” meals and drinks for years, and vacationers can’t get sufficient! Every part is toilet-themed — from the chairs and tables to the decor and even the dishes. You may sip tea from a mini urinal and luxuriate in ice cream served in a bathroom bowl. Yep, it’s bizarre…nevertheless it’s additionally lots of enjoyable!
⚠️ Don’t preserve your hopes up taste-wise. That is good just for the novelty of its theme. There are a lot better-tasting milk tea locations in Taipei like 50 Lan! We’ll be making a separate article for our meals suggestions.
Branches: Ximending and Shilin
Opening Hours: Ximending – Day by day, 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM; Shilin – Day by day, 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Vigor Kobo Pineapple Cake Manufacturing facility
One of the vital well-liked pasalubong objects from Taiwan is the long-lasting pineapple cake. On the Vigor Kobo Pineapple Cake Manufacturing facility, you are able to do extra than simply purchase a field. You may truly make your individual! They provide a enjoyable workshop the place you may attempt your hand at crafting these candy treats from scratch. No baking expertise? No downside! It’s easy, simple, and a good way to take dwelling a extra private memento.
Whereas ready to your truffles to bake, you may discover the interactive museum to study extra concerning the historical past of pineapple truffles and the way they’re made. One of many enjoyable options right here is the disappearing dandelion wall — give it a contact, and the flowers magically vanish! After purchasing for pasalubong, don’t overlook to benefit from the spotlight of the go to: tasting the pineapple cake you made, recent and heat from the oven.
Tackle: No. 87, Part 1, Chengtai Street, Wugu District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Opening Hours: Day by day, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Ever Wealthy Responsibility Free
Should you’re prepared for some severe procuring, Ever Wealthy Responsibility Free is the place to be. They’ve quite a few shops throughout Taipei, even within the airports, however we headed to their large flagship retailer in Neihu District. Unfold throughout 5 flooring, it’s filled with all types of treasures. Plus, you’ll discover some pop-up stalls exterior including to the procuring enjoyable!
And naturally, don’t overlook to keep watch over your flight time! Be sure to catch your airplane!
Tackle: No. 129, Jinzhuang Street, Neihu District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Opening Hours: Day by day, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
D-I-Y vs Reserving a Tour
You may positively do that itinerary DIY-style. Nonetheless, Days 2 and three will be difficult for those who rely solely on public transportation, because the schedule of buses and trains wants cautious timing. Should you’re touring with a bunch, seniors, individuals with mobility considerations, or for those who simply desire a extra relaxed, hassle-free journey, reserving a tour is a way more handy possibility.
You may take a look at Edison Excursions, which is likely one of the hottest tour operators in Taiwan. They’ve been working for many years. To see their provides, you may go to their web site.
Should you desire to speak to Pinoys, listed below are among the journey businesses within the Philippines that you may ask about Taipei tour packages.
- Constellation Travels Inc.
Web site: www.constellationtravels.com.ph
Cell: +63 956 660 0693 - Journey Warehouse Inc.
Web site: www.twi.com.ph - VIA
Web site: https://ph.through.com
Landline: (+63 2) 8555-9444
E-mail: gross sales.ph@through.com - Ark Journey Specific Inc.
Web site: www.arktravelexpress.com
Landline: (+63 2) 8810-4520 / (+63 2) 8528-0933 - North Star Worldwide Journey Inc.
Web site: www.northstar-travel.com.ph
Landline: (+63 2) 3485-7272
E-mail: inquiry@northstar-travel.com.ph - Ricson Crown Journey & Excursions
Landline: (+63 2) 8352-0797
E-mail: ricsontrvl@yahoo.com - Iloilo Skyways Journey & Excursions
Web site: www.iloiloskywaystravel.com
Landline: (+63 33) 508-0909
E-mail: skyways1995@gmail.com - Levy Journey and Excursions
Landline: (+63 2) 8775-7436 / (+63 2) 8518-8801 / (+63 2) 8579-7215
Cell: +63 917 879 7525
E-mail: levytravelandtours@gmail.com
The place to Keep in Taipei
Right here’s an inventory of the accommodations and hostels we tried in Taipei:
Seek for extra Taipei Resorts!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is non-obligatory, however we extremely advocate this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey will be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it offers us peace of thoughts in case of surprising delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, take into account PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You may GET IT HERE. Don’t overlook to make use of WORTHIT for a particular reasonably priced price.
Updates Log
2025 6 18 – First uploaded
