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Taiwan Itinerary And Complete Taiwan Travel Guide

Taiwan, a small island nation in East Asia, is a destination that packs a punch. From bustling cities and serene temples to breathtaking natural landscapes and vibrant cultural experiences, Taiwan offers something for every traveler. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, crafting the perfect Taiwan itinerary can seem overwhelming. But don’t worry—this comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know to plan an unforgettable trip to Taiwan. From must-visit attractions and hidden gems to practical tips and budget-friendly advice, this Taiwan travel guide has got you covered.

Taiwan Itinerary: Explore the Heart of Asia

Table of contents

Why Taiwan Should Be on Your Travel Bucket List

Taiwan is often overlooked in favor of its more famous neighbors like Japan, South Korea, and China. However, this underrated gem has so much to offer. Here’s why Taiwan deserves a spot on your travel bucket list:

  1. Diverse Landscapes: From towering mountains and lush forests to pristine beaches and hot springs, Taiwan’s natural beauty is unparalleled.
  2. Rich Culture: A blend of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous influences, Taiwan’s culture is unique and fascinating.
  3. Food Paradise: Taiwan is famous for its street food, night markets, and culinary delights like beef noodle soup and bubble tea.
  4. Affordable Travel: Compared to other Asian destinations, Taiwan is budget-friendly, offering great value for money.
  5. Friendly Locals: Taiwanese people are known for their warmth and hospitality, making visitors feel right at home.

Whether you’re planning a short getaway or an extended trip, this Taiwan itinerary will help you make the most of your time on the island. Let’s dive into the details!


Taiwan Itinerary: How to Plan Your Trip

Planning a Taiwan itinerary depends on how much time you have and your interests. Below, we’ve outlined sample itineraries for 7, 10, and 14 days, covering Taiwan’s highlights and hidden gems.


7-Day Taiwan Itinerary: The Highlights

Day 1–2: Taipei

  • Day 1: Arrive in Taipei and explore the city’s iconic landmarks, including Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and Longshan Temple.
  • Day 2: Take a day trip to Jiufen and Shifen. Wander through Jiufen’s charming old streets and release a sky lantern in Shifen.

Day 3–4: Taroko Gorge (Hualien)

  • Day 3: Travel to Hualien by train and explore Taroko National Park. Hike the Swallow Grotto Trail and visit the Eternal Spring Shrine.
  • Day 4: Spend another day in Taroko Gorge, exploring lesser-known trails or relaxing in the park’s natural hot springs.

Day 5–6: Kaohsiung

  • Day 5: Take the train to Kaohsiung and visit the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum and Lotus Pond.
  • Day 6: Explore Cijin Island, known for its beaches and seafood, and stroll along the Love River.

Day 7: Return to Taipei

  • Day 7: Head back to Taipei for some last-minute shopping at Ximending or a visit to the National Palace Museum before your flight.

10-Day Taiwan Itinerary: Explore More

Day 1–3: Taipei

  • Day 1–2: Follow the same itinerary as the 7-day plan.
  • Day 3: Visit Yangmingshan National Park for hiking and hot springs.

Day 4–5: Sun Moon Lake (Nantou)

  • Day 4: Travel to Sun Moon Lake and take a boat tour or bike around the lake.
  • Day 5: Visit the Wenwu Temple and the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village.

Day 6–7: Alishan

  • Day 6: Take a scenic train ride to Alishan and explore the forest trails.
  • Day 7: Wake up early to catch the famous Alishan sunrise.

Day 8–9: Tainan

  • Day 8: Travel to Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city, and visit Anping Fort and Chihkan Tower.
  • Day 9: Explore Tainan’s food scene and historic temples.

Day 10: Return to Taipei

  • Day 10: Head back to Taipei for your flight.

14-Day Taiwan Itinerary: The Ultimate Adventure

This 14-day Taiwan itinerary is designed to give you the ultimate adventure, covering everything from bustling urban centers to serene mountain retreats and tropical beaches. Each day is packed with activities, tips, and recommendations to help you make the most of your trip. Let’s dive into the details!


Day 1: Arrival in Taipei

Highlights:

  • Arrive at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE).
  • Check into your accommodation in Taipei.
  • Explore the vibrant Ximending district.

Activities:

  • Ximending: Known as the "Harajuku of Taipei," this area is perfect for shopping, street food, and people-watching.
  • Dinner at a Night Market: Head to Shilin Night Market or Ningxia Night Market for your first taste of Taiwanese street food.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Star Hostel Taipei Main Station ($15/night).
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Midtown Richardson ($60/night).
  • Luxury: W Taipei ($200/night).

Day 2: Taipei City Tour

Highlights:

  • Explore Taipei’s iconic landmarks.
  • Visit the National Palace Museum.

Activities:

  • Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall: A grand monument surrounded by beautiful gardens.
  • Longshan Temple: One of Taipei’s oldest and most famous temples.
  • National Palace Museum: Home to one of the world’s largest collections of Chinese art and artifacts.
  • Elephant Mountain (Xiangshan): Hike up for a panoramic view of the Taipei skyline.

Food:

  • Lunch: Beef noodle soup at Yong Kang Beef Noodle.
  • Dinner: Din Tai Fung for their famous xiao long bao (soup dumplings).

Day 3: Day Trip to Jiufen and Shifen

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Highlights:

  • Visit the charming old streets of Jiufen.
  • Release a sky lantern in Shifen.

Activities:

  • Jiufen: Wander through the narrow streets, visit tea houses, and enjoy the views of the coast.
  • Shifen Waterfall: Known as the "Niagara Falls of Taiwan."
  • Sky Lanterns: Write your wishes on a lantern and release it into the sky.

Transportation:

  • Take a train to Ruifang Station (3),thentransfertoabustoJiufen(3),thentransfertoabustoJiufen(1).

Day 4: Yangmingshan National Park

Highlights:

  • Explore the volcanic landscapes and hot springs of Yangmingshan.

Activities:

  • Hiking: Choose from trails like the Qixing Mountain Trail or the Xiaoyoukeng Trail.
  • Hot Springs: Relax in the Beitou Hot Springs after your hike.

Food:

  • Lunch: Pack a picnic or eat at a local restaurant in the park.
  • Dinner: Return to Taipei for dinner at a night market.

Day 5: Travel to Sun Moon Lake

Highlights:

  • Arrive at Sun Moon Lake, one of Taiwan’s most beautiful lakes.

Activities:

  • Boat Tour: Take a boat ride around the lake.
  • Wenwu Temple: Visit this picturesque temple overlooking the lake.

Accommodation:


Day 6: Sun Moon Lake and Alishan

Highlights:

  • Explore more of Sun Moon Lake before heading to Alishan.

Activities:

  • Biking: Rent a bike and cycle around the lake.
  • Travel to Alishan: Take a bus or train to Alishan.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Alishan House ($50/night).
  • Mid-Range: Alishan Shermuh Hotel ($80/night).

Day 7: Alishan National Scenic Area

Highlights:

  • Watch the sunrise over the sea of clouds.
  • Explore the forest trails.

Activities:

  • Sunrise: Wake up early to catch the famous Alishan sunrise.
  • Hiking: Explore trails like the Sacred Tree Trail and the Sisters Pond Trail.
  • Alishan Forest Railway: Take a scenic train ride through the forest.

Day 8: Travel to Tainan

Highlights:

  • Arrive in Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city.

Activities:

  • Anping Fort: Explore this historic fort built by the Dutch.
  • Chihkan Tower: Visit this former Dutch outpost turned Chinese-style pavilion.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Tainan Wushantou Hostel ($20/night).
  • Mid-Range: Shangri-La’s Far Eastern Plaza Hotel Tainan ($100/night).

Day 9: Explore Tainan

Highlights:

  • Discover Tainan’s rich history and culture.

Activities:

  • Shennong Street: Wander through this charming street lined with traditional houses.
  • Confucius Temple: Visit one of Taiwan’s oldest Confucius temples.
  • Food Tour: Sample Tainan’s famous snacks like dan zai noodles and coffin bread.

Day 10: Travel to Kaohsiung

Highlights:

  • Arrive in Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second-largest city.

Activities:

  • Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum: Visit this massive Buddhist complex.
  • Lotus Pond: Explore the temples and pagodas around the lake.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Kindness Hotel Kaohsiung ($30/night).
  • Mid-Range: Hotel Indigo Kaohsiung ($100/night).

Day 11: Cijin Island and Love River

Highlights:

  • Explore Cijin Island and the Love River.

Activities:

  • Cijin Island: Relax on the beach, visit the lighthouse, and enjoy fresh seafood.
  • Love River: Take a boat ride or stroll along the riverfront.

Day 12: Travel to Kenting

Highlights:

  • Arrive in Kenting, Taiwan’s tropical paradise.

Activities:

  • Beaches: Relax on Kenting’s white-sand beaches.
  • Kenting National Park: Explore the park’s trails and scenic viewpoints.

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Kenting My Home Hostel ($20/night).
  • Mid-Range: Chateau Beach Resort ($80/night).

Day 13: Explore Kenting

Taiwan famous Sightseeing attractions. Kenting National Park

Highlights:

  • Enjoy water sports and explore Kenting’s natural beauty.

Activities:

  • Snorkeling and Diving: Explore the coral reefs.
  • Eluanbi Lighthouse: Visit the southernmost point of Taiwan.
  • Night Market: Enjoy fresh seafood at Kenting Night Market.

Day 14: Return to Taipei

Highlights:

  • Travel back to Taipei for your flight.

Activities:

  • Last-Minute Shopping: Visit Ximending or Taipei 101 for souvenirs.
  • Relax: Enjoy a leisurely meal or visit a tea house before heading to the airport.

Final Thoughts

This 14-day Taiwan itinerary offers the ultimate adventure, covering everything from bustling cities and historic temples to stunning natural landscapes and tropical beaches. With detailed activities, accommodation options, and tips for each day, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through Taiwan. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the wonders of this beautiful island!


Complete Taiwan Travel Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Now that you have a Taiwan itinerary, let’s dive into the details of traveling in Taiwan, including transportation, accommodation, food, and more.


1. Getting to Taiwan

  • International Flights: Most travelers fly into Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) near Taipei. Direct flights are available from major cities worldwide.
  • Visa Requirements: Many nationalities, including the U.S., Canada, and most of Europe, can enter Taiwan visa-free for up to 90 days.

2. Transportation in Taiwan

Taiwan’s transportation system is efficient and affordable. Here’s how to get around:

Public Transport

  • MRT (Metro): Available in Taipei and Kaohsiung, with fares starting at $0.50.
  • Trains: Taiwan High-Speed Rail (HSR) connects major cities, while Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA) covers smaller towns.
  • Buses: Affordable and widely available for both urban and intercity travel.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

  • Taxis: Metered and affordable, with starting fares of $2.50.
  • Ride-Sharing: Uber and local apps like TaxiGo are available.

Scooters and Biking

  • Scooters: Rent a scooter for 15–15–20 per day (requires an international driver’s permit).
  • Biking: Use bike-sharing systems like YouBike in Taipei.

3. Accommodation in Taiwan

Taiwan offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget:

Budget

  • Hostels: 10–10–20 per night (e.g., Star Hostel Taipei Main Station).
  • Guesthouses: 20–20–30 per night.

Mid-Range

  • 3-Star Hotels: 40–40–80 per night (e.g., Hotel Midtown Richardson).

Luxury

  • 5-Star Hotels: $100+ per night (e.g., W Taipei).

1. Luxury Hotels in Taiwan

For travelers seeking the ultimate in comfort and service, Taiwan’s luxury hotels are second to none. Here are some of the best:

W Taipei

  • Location: Taipei.
  • Highlights: Stylish rooms, rooftop pool, and stunning city views.
  • Price: $200+ per night.
  • Book Here: W Taipei.

The Landis Taipei

  • Location: Taipei.
  • Highlights: Elegant rooms, award-winning restaurants, and a central location.
  • Price: $150+ per night.
  • Book Here: The Landis Taipei.

Silks Place Taroko

  • Location: Hualien (near Taroko Gorge).
  • Highlights: Luxurious rooms, hot springs, and breathtaking mountain views.
  • Price: $180+ per night.
  • Book Here: Silks Place Taroko.

Hotel Royal Chiao Hsi

  • Location: Yilan.
  • Highlights: Hot spring baths, spacious rooms, and beautiful gardens.
  • Price: $150+ per night.
  • Book Here: Hotel Royal Chiao Hsi.

2. Mid-Range Hotels in Taiwan

For travelers who want comfort and convenience without the luxury price tag, Taiwan’s mid-range hotels offer excellent value. Here are some top picks:

Hotel Midtown Richardson

  • Location: Taipei.
  • Highlights: Modern rooms, central location, and friendly service.
  • Price: $60+ per night.
  • Book Here: Hotel Midtown Richardson.

CityInn Hotel Taipei Station Branch

  • Location: Taipei.
  • Highlights: Comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and close to public transport.
  • Price: $70+ per night.
  • Book Here: CityInn Hotel Taipei Station Branch.

Hotel Quote Taipei

  • Location: Taipei.
  • Highlights: Stylish design, cozy rooms, and a great location.
  • Price: $80+ per night.
  • Book Here: Hotel Quote Taipei.

The Tango Hotel Taipei

  • Location: Taipei.
  • Highlights: Spacious rooms, modern amenities, and a central location.
  • Price: $75+ per night.
  • Book Here: The Tango Hotel Taipei.

3. Budget Hotels and Hostels in Taiwan

Taiwan is a budget traveler’s paradise, with plenty of affordable and comfortable options. Here are some of the best:

Star Hostel Taipei Main Station

  • Location: Taipei.
  • Highlights: Clean and social, with free breakfast and a cozy atmosphere.
  • Price: $15+ per night.
  • Book Here: Star Hostel Taipei Main Station.

Meander Taipei Hostel

  • Location: Taipei.
  • Highlights: Friendly staff, free Wi-Fi, and a great location.
  • Price: $12+ per night.
  • Book Here: Meander Taipei Hostel.

Flip Flop Hostel Garden

  • Location: Taipei.
  • Highlights: Beautiful garden, clean rooms, and a relaxed vibe.
  • Price: $25+ per night.
  • Book Here: Flip Flop Hostel Garden.

Door Hostel

  • Location: Taipei.
  • Highlights: Modern design, friendly staff, and a central location.
  • Price: $20+ per night.
  • Book Here: Door Hostel.

4. Unique Stays in Taiwan

For travelers looking for something different, Taiwan offers a range of unique accommodation options:

Capsule Hotels

  • Space Inn (Taipei): A stylish capsule hotel with modern amenities.
    • Price: $20+ per night.
    • Book Here: Space Inn.

Hot Springs Resorts

  • Grand View Resort Beitou (Taipei): A luxurious hot springs resort with stunning views.

Farm Stays

  • Cingjing Skyline Guesthouse (Nantou): A charming guesthouse on a working farm.
    • Price: $50+ per night.
    • Book Here: Cingjing Skyline Guesthouse.

5. Tips for Booking Hotels in Taiwan

Here are some tips to help you find the best hotels in Taiwan:

Book in Advance

  • Peak Seasons: Book at least 2-3 months in advance for popular travel periods like spring and fall.
  • Last-Minute Deals: Occasionally available, but risky during peak seasons.

Use Booking Platforms

  • Comparison Websites: Use platforms like Booking.comAgoda, and Hostelworld to compare prices.
  • Loyalty Programs: Sign up for loyalty programs to earn discounts and rewards.

Consider Location

  • Near Public Transport: Staying near MRT stations or bus stops can save you time and money.
  • Outside City Centers: Accommodation is often cheaper in suburban areas.

6. Final Thoughts

Taiwan’s diverse accommodation options cater to every type of traveler, from budget-conscious backpackers to luxury seekers. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Taipei, hiking in Taroko Gorge, or relaxing on the beaches of Kenting, there’s a perfect place to stay for you. With this guide and booking links, you’re ready to book your ideal hotel and start planning your unforgettable trip to Taiwan. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the wonders of this beautiful island!


4. Food and Dining

Taiwan is a food lover’s paradise. Here’s what to try:

Street Food

  • Beef Noodle Soup: 3–3–5.
  • Bubble Tea: 1.50–1.50–3.

Night Markets

  • Shilin Night Market (Taipei): Try pepper buns and stinky tofu.
  • Fengjia Night Market (Taichung): Known for its variety of snacks.

Restaurants

  • Local Eateries: 5–5–10 per meal.
  • Fine Dining: $30+ per person.

5. Activities and Attractions

Taiwan offers a mix of cultural, natural, and modern attractions:

Cultural

  • Temples: Longshan Temple (Taipei), Fo Guang Shan (Kaohsiung).
  • Museums: National Palace Museum (Taipei).

Natural

  • Taroko Gorge: Hiking and scenic views.
  • Sun Moon Lake: Boat tours and cycling.

Modern

  • Taipei 101: Observation deck and shopping.
  • Ximending: Trendy shopping district.

6. Budget Tips

  • Travel Off-Peak: Avoid holidays for cheaper flights and accommodation.
  • Use Public Transport: Get an EasyCard for discounted fares.
  • Eat Street Food: Delicious and affordable meals at night markets.

In this guide, we’ll share detailed budget tips to help you save money while enjoying all that Taiwan has to offer. Whether you’re a backpacker, a solo traveler, or a family on a budget, these tips will help you stretch your dollars and make the most of your trip.


1. Affordable Accommodation

Accommodation is one of the biggest expenses for travelers, but Taiwan offers plenty of budget-friendly options.

Stay in Hostels

  • Cost: 10–10–20 per night for a dorm bed.
  • Recommended Hostels:

Book Budget Guesthouses

  • Cost: 20–20–30 per night for a private room.
  • Recommended Guesthouses:
    • Flip Flop Hostel Garden ($25/night).
    • Door Hostel ($20/night).

Use Booking Platforms

  • Comparison Websites: Use platforms like Booking.comAgoda, and Hostelworld to find deals.
  • Loyalty Programs: Sign up for loyalty programs to earn discounts and rewards.

2. Eat Like a Local

Taiwan is famous for its street food and night markets, where you can enjoy delicious meals for just a few dollars.

Street Food

  • Cost: 1–1–3 per dish.
  • Must-Try Dishes:
    • Beef Noodle Soup ($3).
    • Stinky Tofu ($2).
    • Bubble Tea ($1.50).
    • Scallion Pancakes ($1).

Night Markets

  • Cost: 5–5–10 for a full meal.
  • Popular Night Markets:
    • Shilin Night Market (Taipei).
    • Raohe Night Market (Taipei).
    • Fengjia Night Market (Taichung).

Convenience Stores

  • Cost: 2–2–5 per meal.
  • Options: Bento boxes, onigiri, and microwaveable dishes.

3. Use Public Transportation

Taiwan’s public transportation system is efficient, affordable, and easy to navigate.

MRT (Metro)

  • Cost: 0.50–0.50–2 per ride.
  • Tip: Get an EasyCard or iPass for discounted fares.

Trains

  • Local Trains: 3–3–10 for short distances.
  • High-Speed Rail (HSR): $50 for a one-way ticket from Taipei to Kaohsiung (book early for discounts).

Buses

  • Cost: 0.30–0.30–5 per ride, depending on the distance.
  • Tip: Use apps like Google Maps or Bus+ to plan your routes.

Biking

  • Cost: Free or 1–1–2 per hour for bike rentals.
  • Tip: Use Taipei’s YouBike system for short trips.

4. Explore Free and Low-Cost Activities

Taiwan offers plenty of free and affordable activities for budget travelers.

Free Activities

  • Hiking: Explore trails in Yangmingshan National Park or Taroko Gorge.
  • Temples: Visit Longshan Temple (Taipei) or Fo Guang Shan (Kaohsiung).
  • Beaches: Relax at Fulong Beach or Kenting Beach.
  • Night Markets: Wander through Shilin or Raohe Night Markets.

Low-Cost Activities

  • Museums: Entry fees are typically 5–5–10 (e.g., National Palace Museum).
  • Hot Springs: Beitou Hot Springs costs 10–10–20 for a day pass.
  • Day Trips: Visit Jiufen or Shifen for 10–10–20 (transportation included).

5. Travel Off-Peak

Traveling during off-peak seasons can save you money on flights, accommodation, and activities.

Avoid Holidays

  • Chinese New Year: Flights and accommodations are more expensive.
  • Summer Holidays: Prices spike during July and August.

Weekday Stays

  • Hotels: Accommodation is often cheaper on weekdays than weekends.

6. Save on Flights

Finding affordable flights to Taiwan is key to staying within your budget.

Book Early

  • Best Time to Book: 2–3 months in advance for the best deals.

Use Flight Comparison Tools

Consider Nearby Airports

  • From the U.S.: Check flights from multiple cities (e.g., Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle).
  • From Europe: Compare prices from different hubs (e.g., London, Paris, Amsterdam).

7. Use Transportation Cards

Using a transportation card is the most convenient and cost-effective way to get around Taiwan.

EasyCard (悠遊卡)

  • Cost: $5 for the card, plus additional value to load.
  • Uses: MRT, buses, trains, convenience stores, and some taxis.

iPass (一卡通)

  • Cost: Similar to EasyCard.
  • Uses: Works in Kaohsiung and other southern cities.

8. Drink Tap Water

Taiwan’s tap water is safe to drink, so bring a reusable water bottle to save money on bottled water.


9. Take Advantage of Free Wi-Fi

Many public spaces, including MRT stations and convenience stores, offer free Wi-Fi.


10. Join Free Walking Tours

Cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung offer free walking tours, which are a great way to explore and learn about the local culture.


11. Sample Itinerary for Budget Travelers

Here’s a 7-day budget-friendly itinerary for Taiwan:

Day 1–2: Taipei

  • Visit Longshan Temple and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.
  • Explore Shilin Night Market.
  • Hike Elephant Mountain for a free view of the city skyline.

Day 3: Day Trip to Jiufen and Shifen

  • Take a train to Jiufen ($5) and explore the old streets.
  • Visit Shifen Waterfall and release a sky lantern ($10).

Day 4–5: Taroko Gorge (Hualien)

  • Take a train to Hualien ($10).
  • Rent a scooter ($20) and explore Taroko National Park.

Day 6–7: Kaohsiung

  • Take a train to Kaohsiung ($15).
  • Visit Fo Guang Shan and Liuhe Night Market.
  • Relax at Cijin Beach.

Final Thoughts

Traveling in Taiwan on a budget is not only possible but also incredibly rewarding. With affordable accommodation, cheap and delicious food, efficient public transportation, and plenty of free activities, Taiwan is a dream destination for budget-conscious travelers. By following these budget tips, you can experience the best of Taiwan without spending a fortune. Start planning your budget-friendly adventure today!

Taiwan is a destination that offers something for everyone, from stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural experiences to delicious food and friendly locals. With this Taiwan itinerary and complete travel guide, you’re ready to plan an unforgettable trip to this beautiful island. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Taipei, hiking in Taroko Gorge, or relaxing on the beaches of Kenting, Taiwan will leave you with memories to last a lifetime. So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to explore the heart of Asia!


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