Taiwan is among the most iconic journey locations in Asia. Whenever you see a photograph of Taipei 101, you’ll instantly understand it’s Taiwan. However apart from this constructing that was as soon as the tallest on the earth, Taiwan has lots to supply to vacationers. From wealthy cultural heritage, to trendy cityscape, to gorgeous pure landscapes, it attracts vacationers who’re fascinated with totally 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 evening markets, this island will certainly offer you a visit to recollect.
Taiwan was our final vacation spot earlier than the pandemic unfold around the globe and earlier than international locations closed their borders. The truth is, we even received stranded right here due to it! So after 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 you can observe 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 lots in Taipei, this itinerary is what we extremely suggest.
DAY 1: TAIPEI CITY CENTER
Arrival
- Landing Airport. Whenever you land on the airport, you may change cash or withdraw Taiwan {dollars} from the ATM so you could have native forex instantly. You can even purchase a SIM card or choose one up for those who pre-ordered on-line, so that you’re linked as quickly as you arrive. Listed below are two choices from Klook!
- Make your option to town heart. For those who’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 need a smoother journey, you may ebook a tour package deal with a good company in Taiwan like Edison Excursions, and even from the Philippines.
- Test in at resort. For those who arrive too early to verify in, drop off your luggage on the resort and begin exploring.
Because it’s your first time, it’s finest to see Taipei metropolis heart’s must-visit points of interest.
Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Corridor
In-built 1976 to honor one in all Taiwan’s most vital figures, the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Corridor homes an enormous statue of him in the primary chamber, with a museum and library on the decrease degree.
Tackle: No.21, Zhongshan S. Highway, Zhongzheng District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C)
Nearest MRT Station: Chiang Kai-shek (CKS) Memorial Corridor Station (Purple Line 2 or Inexperienced Line 3)
Open: Day by day, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Payment: 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 extensively considered the Father of the Nation, and this web site celebrates his legacy with a grand statue, displays, and spacious grounds good for a leisurely stroll.
Tackle: No. 505, Part 4, Ren’ai Highway, 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 Payment: FREEBe aware: Since February 2024, the corridor is quickly closed for upkeep. It’s anticipated to reopen in 2026.
Taipei 101
Taipei 101 is essentially 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 take pleasure in breathtaking panoramic views of the capital.
You’ll be able to safe your ticket upfront on-line by accredited reserving websites like Klook!
✅ GET YOUR TAIPEI 101 TICKET HERE!
Tackle: No. 7, Part 5, Xinyi Highway, Xinyi District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Nearest MRT Station: Taipei 101 Station (Purple Line 2)
Hours open: Day by day, 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Entrance Payment: NT$600
Elephant Mountain
Whereas the Taipei 101 Observatory provides an unimaginable view of town, the perfect vantage level is definitely from Elephant Mountain. Most of the metropolis’s iconic postcard photographs had been doubtless taken right here. The perfect time to go to is late afternoon so you may benefit from the skyline by day, catch the sundown, and see town gentle up at evening. Simply take note, it does require a little bit of a climb, so it won’t be appropriate for these with mobility issues.
Path Head: Lane 150, Xinyi Highway, Part 5, Xinyi District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Nearest MRT Station: Xiàngshān Station (Purple Line 2)
Entrance Payment: FREE
Ximending
Ximending is Taipei’s youth district, identified for its vibrant leisure, eating, and purchasing scene. It actually comes alive at evening — shiny, bustling, and filled with power. Consider it as Taipei’s model of Tokyo’s Harajuku. You’ll discover world model shops, bars, cafes, and golf equipment right here.
The preferred space is Ximen Walker Avenue, all the time filled with each vacationers and locals. There are additionally tons of meals choices round, making it a fantastic 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 Payment: FREE
DAY 2: NEW TAIPEI CITY
After exploring Taipei Metropolis, it’s time to move to New Taipei Metropolis. Although it’s a separate municipality, it’s usually grouped with Taipei Metropolis as a part of the Better Taipei Metropolitan Space. Because of an environment friendly transportation system and each cities being progressive, you won’t even discover that they’re totally different cities.
On your second day, let’s swap issues up and escape the skyscrapers and purchasing malls. Journey to the countryside, visiting the charming districts of Ruifang, Pingxi, and Wanli.
Yehliu Geopark
Positioned on the northernmost tip of Taiwan, the Yehliu Geopark is legendary 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.
Nevertheless, it’s a bit out of the way in which in comparison with different points of interest. For those who’re doing it DIY-style, be conscious that the journey to the subsequent cease might take round two hours. To avoid wasting time, we suggest becoming a member of a tour, which minimizes switch and ready occasions. With out stops, it’s solely a few 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 Highway, Wanli District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Entrance Payment: Grownup, NT$120; Little one (6-12 y/o), NT$60
Jiufen Previous Avenue
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 Avenue is now well-known for its teahouse tradition and charming streets. It’s a pleasant place to discover. You’ll be able to browse for souvenirs, take pleasure in tea or espresso in cozy cafés, or savor a meal in one in all its quaint eating places. Widespread spots embody Jiufen Previous Avenue, Shengping Theater, the Gold Mine Museum, Mount Keelung Path, and varied scenic viewpoints.
Location: Ruifang District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
The right way to Get to Jiufen: From Taipei Principal Station, take a practice going to Ruifang Station. Alongside Mingdeng Highway 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
For those who’re a cat lover, the Houtong Cat Village is a must-visit! Positioned only a 15- to 20-minute drive from Jiufen, this former coal-mining city has reworked 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 lovely cats, you’ll discover statues and cat-themed memento outlets. 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 take pleasure in some native treats.
Location: Ruifang District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
The right way 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 manner is to take a direct native practice from Taipei Principal Station to Houtong Station.
Shifen Waterfall
This space will also be a fantastic 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 few 25-minute stroll from the beginning of the path. From there, it’s one other 15 to twenty minutes to succeed in the primary viewing deck.
That’s why becoming a member of a tour is a great 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 snug. Alongside the way in which, you’ll move by stalls promoting snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. Among the refreshments and bites you’ll discover are milk tea, lemon tea, contemporary fruits, and attention-grabbing atis (sugar apples) which can be surprisingly large!
When you resist all of the meals temptations, you’ll attain the first viewpoint close to the cascade, which is ideal for photographs. However for the perfect angle, proceed alongside the path till you attain the major viewing platform for Shifen Falls. Simply take note there are stairs, so it might not be appropriate for these with mobility issues.
Location: Pingxi District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
The right way 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 Avenue
Shifen Previous Avenue is the place you’ll discover the iconic railway observe that serves as the location for releasing sky lanterns. For those who resolve to attempt the exercise, you’ll begin by writing your needs or messages on the lantern. When you’re executed, a workers member will assist gentle it up, and you’ll watch it slowly rise and drift away with the wind.
The Pingxi District is legendary for its Sky Lantern Pageant, held throughout the first lunar month — often 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. For those who are inclined to marvel 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 take pleasure in, like searching for souvenirs or sampling snacks from the stalls that line the tracks.
Location: Pingxi District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
The right way to Get to Shifen Previous Avenue: 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 Avenue.
Raohe Evening Market
After the tour, it’s time to move again to town. For dinner, head to Raohe Evening Market, one of many oldest and most iconic evening 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 great worth.
We had been in a position to attempt two of them. Essentially the most well-known is the Fuzhou Black Pepper Buns, identified for his or her crispy, charcoal-baked pork buns cooked in a conventional brick oven. One other must-try is the Chen Dong Pork Ribs Medical Herbs Soup. It could appear to be largely bones, however the meat is extremely tender and falls proper off. It’s heat, comforting, and flavorful. And whilst you’re right here, be courageous and check out the infamous pungent tofu, or snack on skewers from the various distributors. Then cap off your evening with a traditional Taiwanese milk tea!
Tackle: Raohe Avenue, 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 Payment: 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 heart. Listed below are the potential stops.
Yangmingshan Nationwide Park
Straddling Taipei and New Taipei Metropolis, Yangmingshan is one in all Taiwan’s 9 nationwide parks. It’s a fantastic 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 facet of the park, which is essentially the most accessible and tourist-friendly. Considered one of its well-known landmarks is the flower clock, a favourite picture spot. For those who’re hoping to see cherry blossoms, this is among the finest locations in Taiwan. Simply ensure to go to throughout the proper season. The remainder of the 12 months, the park nonetheless bursts with coloration — because of peach blossoms, plum blossoms, azalea, and thorn apples.
Bounce-off Level: Yangmingshan Nationwide Park Customer Middle, No. 1-20, Zhuzihu Highway, Beitou District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
The right way 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 heart, which additionally serves as the primary entrance to the park.
Beitou Scorching Spring Park
Beitou District is a identified scorching 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.
For those who select to go to one of many many public scorching springs or spas, you may take a soothing stroll by the park and soak within the environment — actually. For those who’re brief on time, not less than attempt the native tea eggs, a well-liked snack usually offered across the space. It’s a singular mixture of nature, wellness, and native taste multi function spot.
Location: Beitou District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
The right way 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 set of round 700,000 artifacts, some relationship again hundreds of years! However right here’s the kicker — solely about 1% of that’s really on show. The remaining? Safely tucked away in vaults underneath tight safety.
The gathering is so huge that it’s exhausting 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. For those who’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 (Purple Line – 2), then take Bus R30 (NT$15)
Hours Open: Day by day 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Entrance Payment: NT$350
Shilin Evening Market
Unfold throughout two ranges, Shilin Evening Market is the most important evening market in Taipei. On the bottom flooring and close by alleys, you’ll largely discover memento outlets and attire shops.
However head all the way 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 positioned proper subsequent to the MRT station.
Tackle: No. 101, Jihe Highway, Shilin District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Nearest MRT Station: Jiantan Station (Purple Line – 2)
Finest Time to Go to: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Entrance Payment: 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 alternative. The truth is, Taiwan boasts one of many highest concentrations of cafés on the earth. You’ll positively discover this in full of life areas like Ximending, the place cafés — each world chains and quirky specialty outlets — appear to pop up on each nook.
Fong Da Espresso
One café you shouldn’t miss is Fong Da Espresso, stated to be the primary to serve iced espresso in Taiwan manner again in 1956. Whereas most cafés as we speak purpose for a stylish, Instagrammable vibe, it stands out by embracing its classic appeal and sticking to its old-school roots with satisfaction.
Tackle: No. 42, Chengdu Highway, Wanhua District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Opening Hours: Day by day, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Fashionable Bathroom
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 slightly bizarre), head to Fashionable Bathroom.
This quirky café-restaurant has been allotting hilariously “crappy” meals and drinks for years, and vacationers can’t get sufficient! All the things is toilet-themed — from the chairs and tables to the decor and even the dishes. You’ll be able to sip tea from a mini urinal and luxuriate in ice cream served in a bathroom bowl. Yep, it’s bizarre…nevertheless it’s additionally a number of enjoyable!
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
Probably the most well-liked pasalubong gadgets 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’ll be able to really make your personal! 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 an effective way to take residence a extra private memento.
Whereas ready to your desserts to bake, you may discover the interactive museum to be taught extra concerning the historical past of pineapple desserts 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 searching for pasalubong, don’t neglect to benefit from the spotlight of the go to: tasting the pineapple cake you made, contemporary and heat from the oven.
Tackle: No. 87, Part 1, Chengtai Highway, Wugu District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Opening Hours: Day by day, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Ever Wealthy Responsibility Free
For those who’re prepared for some severe purchasing, 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 huge flagship retailer in Neihu District. Unfold throughout 5 flooring, it’s filled with every kind of treasures. Plus, you’ll discover some pop-up stalls outdoors including to the purchasing enjoyable!
And naturally, don’t neglect to regulate your flight time! Be sure you catch your airplane!
Tackle: No. 129, Jinzhuang Highway, 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’ll be able to positively do that itinerary DIY-style. Nevertheless, 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. For those who’re touring with a bunch, seniors, folks with mobility issues, or for those who simply need a extra relaxed, hassle-free journey, reserving a tour is a way more handy possibility.
You’ll be able to take a look at Edison Excursions, which is among the hottest tour operators in Taiwan. They’ve been working for many years. To see their provides, you may go to their web site.
For those who favor to speak to Pinoys, listed below are among the journey companies within the Philippines you can 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.by way of.com
Landline: (+63 2) 8555-9444
E-mail: gross sales.ph@by way of.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 a listing of the resorts and hostels we tried in Taipei:
Seek for extra Taipei Inns!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is non-obligatory, however we extremely suggest this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey will be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it provides us peace of thoughts in case of sudden delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, think about PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You’ll be able to GET IT HERE. Don’t neglect to make use of WORTHIT for a particular reasonably priced price.
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2025 6 18 – First uploaded