Taiwan is without doubt one of the most iconic journey locations in Asia. Whenever you see a photograph of Taipei 101, you’ll instantly comprehend it’s Taiwan. However other than this constructing that was as soon as the tallest on the earth, Taiwan has rather a lot to supply to vacationers. From wealthy cultural heritage, to fashionable cityscape, to gorgeous pure landscapes, it attracts vacationers who’re focused on totally different sorts of journey. Whether or not you’re trying to hike by way of scenic trails, go to temples, or eat your coronary heart out at night time 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. In actual fact, we even obtained 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 in a foreign country vacation spot.
And now, we’re sharing with you a pattern itinerary you can observe particularly if it’s your first time in Taiwan.
Notice: This isn’t the precise itinerary we had for our journey. But when it’s your first time and also you wish to expertise rather a lot 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 might have native foreign money instantly. You may also purchase a SIM card or choose one up in case you pre-ordered on-line, so that you’re related as quickly as you arrive. Listed below are two choices from Klook!
- Make your method to town middle. In the event you’re on a DIY journey, you may take the practice or experience a bus to achieve your resort. However in case you’re with an even bigger group, touring with seniors, or simply need a smoother journey, you may e-book a tour bundle with a good company in Taiwan like Edison Excursions, and even from the Philippines.
- Verify in at resort. In the event you arrive too early to test 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 every of Taiwan’s most vital 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: Every day, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Payment: FREE
Solar Yat-sen Memorial Corridor
One other landmark constructed to honor one in every of 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 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 Street, Xinyi District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C)
Nearest MRT Station: Solar Yat-sen (SYS) Memorial Corridor Station (Blue Line 5)
Open: Every day, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Payment: FREENotice: 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 way of 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: Every day, 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Entrance Payment: NT$600
Elephant Mountain
Whereas the Taipei 101 Observatory affords an unimaginable view of town, the very best vantage level is definitely from Elephant Mountain. Most of the metropolis’s iconic postcard pictures have been seemingly 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 night time. Simply take into account, it does require a little bit of a climb, so it may not be appropriate for these with mobility issues.
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 Payment: FREE
Ximending
Ximending is Taipei’s youth district, recognized for its vibrant leisure, eating, and procuring scene. It actually comes alive at night time — vivid, bustling, and filled with vitality. Consider it as Taipei’s model of Tokyo’s Harajuku. You’ll discover international model shops, bars, cafes, and golf equipment right here.
The most well-liked 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 ideal 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 typically grouped with Taipei Metropolis as a part of the Higher Taipei Metropolitan Space. Because of an environment friendly transportation system and each cities being progressive, you may not even discover that they’re totally different cities.
To your second day, let’s swap issues up and escape the skyscrapers and procuring 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 known for its placing 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 best way in comparison with different points of interest. In the event you’re doing it DIY-style, be aware 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 affords 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 Payment: Grownup, NT$120; Youngster (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’ll be able to browse for souvenirs, take pleasure in tea or espresso in cozy cafés, or savor a meal in one in every of its quaint eating places. Well-liked spots embrace Jiufen Previous Road, Shengping Theater, the Gold Mine Museum, Mount Keelung Path, and varied scenic viewpoints.
Location: Ruifang District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
How you can Get to Jiufen: From Taipei Fundamental 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
In the event you’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 remodeled right into a cat haven. In 2008, a neighborhood photographer captured the heartwarming sight of residents caring for deserted cats. Since then, the village has attracted cat lovers from everywhere in the globe.
Except for 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 in case you’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.)
How you can Get to Houtong Cat Village: If coming from Jiufen, take the practice to from Ruifang Station to Houtong Station. From Taipei Fundamental Station, take a practice going to Ruifang Station. Then, switch to Pingxi Line to Houtong Station. One other approach is to take a direct native practice from Taipei Fundamental Station to Houtong Station.
Shifen Waterfall
This space will also be an ideal lunch cease since there are many eating places and meals stalls round. However in case you’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 achieve the principle viewing deck.
That’s why becoming a member of a tour is a great choice, particularly in case you’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 best way, you’ll move by stalls promoting snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. Among the refreshments and bites you’ll discover are milk tea, lemon tea, recent fruits, and attention-grabbing atis (sugar apples) which are surprisingly big!
When you resist all of the meals temptations, you’ll attain the first viewpoint close to the cascade, which is ideal for images. However for the very best angle, proceed alongside the path till you attain the predominant viewing platform for Shifen Falls. Simply take into account there are stairs, so it will not be appropriate for these with mobility issues.
Location: Pingxi District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
How you can Get to Shifen Waterfalls: From Taipei Fundamental 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 positioning for releasing sky lanterns. In the event you resolve to attempt the exercise, you’ll begin by writing your needs or messages on the lantern. When you’re completed, a workers 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 throughout the first lunar month — often in February. However you don’t have to attend for the pageant to expertise this! Guests can launch sky lanterns year-round for a payment. In fact, it’s not for everybody. In the event 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 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.)
How you can Get to Shifen Previous Road: From Taipei Fundamental 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 Night time Market
After the tour, it’s time to move again to town. For dinner, head to Raohe Night time 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 worth.
We have been capable of attempt two of them. Essentially the most well-known is the Fuzhou Black Pepper Buns, recognized 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 principally 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 take a look at the infamous smelly 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: Every 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 middle. Listed below are the potential stops.
Yangmingshan Nationwide Park
Straddling Taipei and New Taipei Metropolis, Yangmingshan is one in every of Taiwan’s 9 nationwide parks. It’s an ideal vacation spot for nature lovers and out of doors lovers. The park’s most iconic function is Qixing Mountain, the tallest dormant volcano in Taiwan, surrounded by scenic mountain climbing trails.
Most guests discover the western facet of the park, which is essentially the most accessible and tourist-friendly. One in all its well-known landmarks is the flower clock, a favourite photograph spot. In the event you’re hoping to see cherry blossoms, this is without doubt one of the greatest locations in Taiwan. Simply ensure that to go to throughout the precise season. The remainder of the yr, the park nonetheless bursts with colour — because of peach blossoms, plum blossoms, azalea, and thorn apples.
Leap-off Level: Yangmingshan Nationwide Park Customer Middle, No. 1-20, Zhuzihu Street, Beitou District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
How you can Get to Yangmingshan Nationwide Park: From Taipei Fundamental Station, take Bus 260 to Yangmingshan Nationwide Park Bus Station. It’s only a quick stroll to the customer middle, which additionally serves as the principle entrance to the park.
Beitou Scorching Spring Park
Beitou District is a recognized 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 frequently appears mystical when blanketed in steam.
In the event you select to go to one of many many public scorching springs or spas, you may take a soothing stroll by way of the park and soak within the environment — actually. In the event you’re quick on time, at the very least attempt the native tea eggs, a well-liked snack typically offered across the space. It’s a novel mixture of nature, wellness, and native taste multi functional spot.
Location: Beitou District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
How you can Get to Beitou Scorching Spring Park: Relying in your itinerary, you may alight at any of those practice stations in Beitou from Taipei Fundamental 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 relationship again 1000’s of years! However right here’s the kicker — solely about 1% of that’s really on show. The remaining? Safely tucked away in vaults below tight safety.
The gathering is so huge that it’s arduous 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. In the event 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: Every day 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Entrance Payment: NT$350
Shilin Night time Market
Unfold throughout two ranges, Shilin Night time Market is the most important night time market in Taipei. On the bottom ground and close by alleys, you’ll principally discover memento retailers and attire shops.
However head right down to the basement, and prepare to really feel hungry, even in case you 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 Payment: FREE
DAY 4: CHILLIN’ AND SHOPPIN’
Don’t skip Taipei’s café tradition in your final day! Whereas Taiwan is historically recognized 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 the earth. You’ll positively discover this in full of life 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 approach again in 1956. Whereas most cafés right now purpose for a classy, Instagrammable vibe, it stands out by embracing its classic allure and sticking to its old-school roots with pleasure.
Tackle: No. 42, Chengdu Street, Wanhua District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Opening Hours: Every day, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Trendy Bathroom
In fact, 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, have been both born right here or have their headquarters within the nation. However in case you’re searching for a milk tea expertise that’s really unforgettable (and somewhat bizarre), head to Trendy Bathroom.
This quirky café-restaurant has been meting out 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 rest room bowl. Yep, it’s bizarre…nevertheless it’s additionally a number 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 – Every day, 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM; Shilin – Every day, 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Vigor Kobo Pineapple Cake Manufacturing facility
Probably the most standard 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 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, straightforward, and an effective way to take residence a extra private memento.
Whereas ready to your muffins to bake, you may discover the interactive museum to be taught extra concerning the historical past of pineapple muffins 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, recent and heat from the oven.
Tackle: No. 87, Part 1, Chengtai Street, Wugu District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Opening Hours: Every day, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Ever Wealthy Obligation Free
In the event you’re prepared for some severe procuring, Ever Wealthy Obligation 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 all types of treasures. Plus, you’ll discover some pop-up stalls exterior including to the procuring enjoyable!
And naturally, don’t neglect to control your flight time! Be sure you catch your airplane!
Tackle: No. 129, Jinzhuang Street, Neihu District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Opening Hours: Every 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. Nonetheless, Days 2 and three may be difficult in case you rely solely on public transportation, because the schedule of buses and trains wants cautious timing. In the event you’re touring with a gaggle, seniors, individuals with mobility issues, or in case you simply need a extra relaxed, hassle-free journey, reserving a tour is a way more handy choice.
You’ll be able to take a look at Edison Excursions, which is without doubt one of the hottest tour operators in Taiwan. They’ve been working for many years. To see their affords, you may go to their web site.
In the event you want to speak to Pinoys, listed here are a number of 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.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 a listing of the lodges and hostels we tried in Taipei:
Seek for extra Taipei Resorts!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is optionally available, however we extremely suggest this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey may be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it provides 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’ll be able to GET IT HERE. Don’t neglect to make use of WORTHIT for a particular reasonably priced charge.
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2025 6 18 – First uploaded
