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Is it safe to travel to Taiwan right now? The latest travel advice after earthquake and aftershocks

More than 200 aftershocks have hit the country following the April 3 earthquake

Taiwan  is one of Asia’s most underrated travel destinations, with a magnetic capital city in  Taipei  and a stunning mountainous landscape. Located at the crossover of the South and East China Sea, the island nation offers travellers a long list of adventures .

However, Taiwan experienced the strongest earthquake in 25 years earlier this month, as a 7.4 magnitude quake struck the east coast of the island on April 3. It  was also felt in southern Japan , eastern China and the Philippines .

Just over two weeks on, more  than 200 aftershock tremors were felt throughout the night on April 23. H ere is what we know so far about travelling to Taiwan in the wake of the latest earthquakes. 

Is it safe to travel to Taiwan? 

Travelling to the country has not been officially advised against and no casualties were reported after the tremors early this morning. Schools and offices closed on Tuesday in  Hualien, which was at the epicentre of the quakes . One of the more than 200 tremors felt last night had a magnitude of 6.1. It struck at 2.30am local time, but the aftershocks reportedly continued through the night and caused buildings to sway, according to Al Jazeera . 

Where was impacted by the earthquake? 

The epicentre of the original earthquake was around 18km south of Hualien, with the surrounding county being the worst-hit area, according to local officials.

Today’s aftershocks were again centred around Hualien on the east coast and caused buildings across large parts of northern, eastern and western Taiwan to shake. A 5.8 tremor was also felt in the capital of Taipei at 8am local time this morning. 

How close is Taiwan to Japan? 

Taiwan and Japan are 2,163km apart. While this might sound like a long distance, tsunamis have been known to travel up to 5,000km, and small tsunami waves were experienced on the coasts of Japan’s Miyako and Yaeyama islands after the initial April 3 quake. 

What’s the latest UK Foreign Office advice? 

The UK Foreign Office updated its Taiwan travel advice page on April 3, stating: ‘On Wednesday 3 April 2024 at 07.58 local time, a magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck Eastern Taiwan with shocks felt all across the island including Taipei. Aftershocks continue to occur and you should expect travel disruption. You should consult the Central Weather Administration website and other official sources for more information.’

What are your rights if you’ve booked a trip? 

Until the UK Foreign Office issues advice against all but essential travel to Taiwan, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to cancel your travel plans without any penalties. To see what can be done, it’d be best to contact your accommodation, flight or trip provider.  

Have flights to Taiwan and Japan been cancelled?

So far, there’s no news of flights to either Taiwan or Japan being cancelled, but just to be sure, it’s best to check with your airline directly if you have one booked. 

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The Perfect Taiwan Itinerary And Complete Taiwan Travel Guide

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: March 5, 2024

Categories Taiwan

Did you know Taiwan has the largest number and density of high mountains in the world? While this island may be small in size, it has much to offer!

From beautiful beaches to modern skyscrapers and from colorful street art to delicious cuisine, Taiwan has it all.

This Taiwan itinerary will guide you around the highlights of this green island that used to be called ‘Ilha Formosa' (meaning ‘ beautiful island ‘ in Portuguese). A fitting name as Taiwan is absolutely gorgeous!

Taiwan itinerary

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

Itinerary for Taiwan and Taiwan travel map

In the map below you can find our Taiwan itinerary, at the end of the post you can download this map.

Click here for the interactive map

The ultimate Taiwan itinerary

• Day 1-3: Kaohsiung
• Day 4-6: Kenting National Park
• Day 7-9:  Tainan
• Day 10-11:  Taichung
• Day 12-13: Sun Moon Lake
• Day 14-19:  Taipei (part I)
• Day 20-23: Hualien and the Taroko Gorge
• Day 24-29:  Taipei (part II)

Important things to know when planning a trip to Taiwan

Taiwan is a great destination year-round, however, Spring (March-April) and Autumn (October-November) are the most popular times to visit. From mid-May until September, monsoon season causes a lot of rain, especially on the East Coast. We visited in May and while we did experience some rain, the weather was good on most days. However, we did adjust our travel plans because of the (terrible) weather forecast, and instead of traveling the entire length of Taiwan's East Coast (in the pouring rain), we opted to spend more time in Taipei (where it was still sunny). During Summer (June until August) Taiwan is hot and humid with temperatures rising above 30 degrees Celsius. Winter is low season in Taiwan, though it usually doesn't get that cold (around 10 degrees).

The official currency in Taiwan is the  New Taiwan dollar  ( NT $) .   Here  you can find the current exchange rates, at the time of writing €1 is approximately 34NT$ and $1 approximately 30NT$.

Plan your Taiwan trip like a pro with these tools: ? Pick up an EasyCard for cashless payments and to use public transport. ? Book discounted tickets for Taiwan's high-speed rail. ? Stay connected with a  Taiwan Wifi router . ? Plan your journey with the  T aiwan Lonely Planet . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Klook or Get Your Guide . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Taiwan travel tips

In general traveling around Taiwan is very easy. This beautiful small country is safe and well-organized and, as I already mentioned, the people are super friendly.

Nevertheless, here are some travel tips to make your Taiwan trip even easier (and cheaper!).

Buy an EasyCard

I recommend that as soon as you arrive in Taiwan, you pick up an EasyCard .

You can use this pass all over Taiwan to pay for transport (MRT, bicycles, buses, trains, ferries, etc.). The Easy Card gives you a discount on transport fares and saves you the hassle of having to pay with coins.

You can top up your credit in 7-11 and Family Mart (you can also pay with your EasyCard in these shops and several others).

Pick up a Wifi router at the airport

During our trip to Taiwan, we used a portable Wifi router with unlimited data to stay online.

We could connect all our devices (and we have a lot ) and had excellent reception everywhere in Taiwan (except in the tunnels on the East coast). Click here to book your Wifi router .

You can pick up the router upon arrival at Taoyuan international airport or Kaohsiung airport and use it throughout your Taiwan trip.

You can simply return the device to the service counter where you picked it up, or use a 24-hour drop-off box available at the airports mentioned above if you happen to have to catch a flight outside of business hours.

Be prepared to use Google Translate a lot

While the people in Taiwan are very friendly and always willing to help, I was surprised to learn that many Taiwanese don't speak English. At all.

They will still try to help you through and Google Translate makes it a lot easier. You can download the app for free in the App Store or the Play Store .

Our Taiwan trip: facts and figures

• I traveled with my husband; our trip started in Kaohsiung and ended in Taipei. Our Taiwan trip itinerary was  29 days in   total.
• We traveled around Taiwan by public transport (train, bus, and MRT). In Kenting National Park and Hualien, we rented a scooter. In Kaohsiung, Tainan, Taichung, and Taipei we used the public bicycle rental systems, bus, and MRT to get around.
• During our trip around Taiwan, we spent approximately   2065 NT / €63 / $69 per day as a couple. If you want to know more about the costs of our Taiwan trip , check my budget breakdown .
• I have written detailed guides for most places we visited in Taiwan, in these guides you can find detailed information about our day-to-day activities, transportation, and detailed information about our accommodation . You can find the links to those posts in the itinerary below.

Where to find great budget accommodation in Taiwan

In the table below you can find our Taiwan accommodation. I’ve also written a separate post about the places we stayed in Taiwan with more details about these places.

Note: Prices for these hotels depend on the time of year and how far in advance you book. Therefore, the prices mentioned above are a rough indication of the price per night to help you compare the different options. Use ‘click here' to see the latest prices on Agoda and Booking and book ahead to get the best deal.

* Unfortunately, the Airbnbs we stayed at in Kaohsiung and Taipei are no longer available due to Covid-19. I've done my utmost to find a suitable alternative (see table) .

How to spend a month in Taiwan

Ideally, if you have a month in Taiwan as we did, you'd make a full circle around the island. You can either start and end your trip in Taipei or in Kaohsiung, as these are the largest hubs for international flights.

As I mentioned above, unfortunately, we didn't get to finish our Taiwan loop because monsoon season started and the East Coast was soaking wet.

Nevertheless, we had a lot of fun during the additional time we spend in Taipei and I don't regret making this decision. Below you can find our day by day one month Taiwan trip.

If you have less time available to explore Taiwan, don't worry, I've got you covered. Further on in the post, I also suggest shorter options (5, 7, and 10 days, plus 2 and 3 weeks) for your Taiwan travel itinerary.

Day 1 – 3: Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung isn't a well-known city, at least I had never heard of it before traveling to Taiwan. Of course, that could also just be me being ignorant…

Anyway, Kaohsiung is the third-largest city in Taiwan and this is where we started our trip. Kaohsiung is an important harbor city but also has many interesting sights.

My recommended activities for Kaohsiung are:

• Cycle the bicycle trail along the Love River . Worthwhile stops are the Kaohsiung 228 Peace Memorial Park, Zhongdou Wetlands Park, Botanical Garden, and the Lotus Pond.
• Cycle around the Lotus Pond. Another great bicycle trail goes around the Lotus Pond, on the south side of the lake you can find the colorful Tiger and Dragon Pagodas.
• Visit Qijin Island . This small island is only a 5-minute ferry ride from the mainland. Here you can explore the Cijin Coast Park, admire the view from the Cihou Lighthouse and visit the Maritime Museum.

Book your Kaohsiung accommodation: 85 Good Time Hotel

Click here to read about more things to do in Kaohsiung .

Day 4 – 6: Kenting National Park

From busy Kaohsiung, we traveled to the green Kenting National Park, in the South of Taiwan.

Fun fact: did you know there are 9 National Parks in Taiwan ?

Kenting National Park is beautiful, the beaches are pristine and the empty roads through lush green jungle make it the perfect place for a scooter road trip.

Some of the best places to visit in Kenting are:

• Maobitou Park : a great spot to admire the beautiful ocean views and impressive rock formations.
• Hengchun night market: try out lots of typical Taiwanese dishes and snacks and wash them down with a boba (bubble tea).
• Kenting town: take an hour or so to explore the town, but leave plenty of time to relax on a pretty Kenting beach, with white sand and stunning blue water.

Book your Kenting accommodation: Light Blue Bed & Breakfast

Click here to read about more things to do in Kenting .

Day 7 – 9: Tainan

Our next destination was Tainan, the oldest city in Taiwan and one with a Dutch history which made it extra interesting for us (being from the Netherlands and all).

Back in 1624, the VOC (Vereenigde Oost-Indische Compagnie or United East India Company in English) built Fort Zeelandia in Tainan and used the city as their ruling and trading base.

Besides the Dutch Fort, there are many beautiful temples in Tainan. In fact, there are more Buddhist and Taoist temples in Tainan than in any other Taiwanese city! The top spots in Tainan you should visit are:

• Koxinga’s Shrine : an impressive shrine dating from 1663. Also, take a stroll around the stylish garden in front of the complex.
• Fort Zeelandia: this fort was built by the Dutch in the early 17th century and used as a trading outpost. It's a great place to learn about (part of) the tumultuous history of Taiwan.
• National Museum of Taiwan History : another excellent place to learn about Taiwanese history and its many invaders throughout the decades (the Portuguese, the Dutch, the Chinese, and the Japanese).

Book your Tainan accommodation: Tie Dao Hotel

Click here to read about more things to do in Tainan .

Day 10 – 11: Taichung

Unfortunately, it was raining during the majority of our time in Taichung. We made the most of it though and went to the movies, ate wood-fired oven pizza, and hung out in cute cafes.

However, if the weather is a bit nicer, you can easily spend three days here as there are many things to do in this interesting city! Highlights in (and around) Taichung are:

• Rainbow Village : a short distance from Taichung city center you can find what is perhaps the most colorful village in the world. Painted by Huang Yong-Fu in a desperate attempt to preserve his home that was about to be torn down by the government, this artsy village has now become one of Taiwan’s most famous attractions!
• Chun Shui Tang Cultural Tea House : the birthplace of Taiwan's famous boba, aka bubble tea. Here you can take a bubble tea-making class and learn how to create these delicious and highly addictive concoctions yourself.
• Taichung Second Market : an authentic wet market with 100 years of history. Here you can eat local dishes created from secret family recipes handed down for generations!

Book your Taichung accommodation: Modern Inn

Click here to read about more things to do in Taichung .

Day 12 – 13: Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake is the largest lake in Taiwan and a very popular place to visit. It sure is a gorgeous place, unfortunately, the rain that found us in Taichung followed us to Sun Moon Lake.

We had planned to do lots of outdoor activities, like cycling around the lake and hiking up Mt. Shuishe.

Instead, we spent most of our time in the Starbucks in Shuishe Village, running outside whenever the rain stopped for a brief moment to take pictures of the still beautiful-looking lake.

Nevertheless, there are tons of things to do at Sun Moon Lake when the weather is nice:

• Follow (part of) the Yuetan Bike Path : a 29 kilometers bike route that goes around Sun Moon Lake. You can also opt for a shorter section of approximately 12 kilometers.
• Ride the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway‭: from the Ropeway, you can enjoy the best views over the lake and forested mountains.
• Visit the Wenwu Temple and Ci En Pagoda : these beautiful constructions‭ are highly worth a visit, and both can be reached with the  Round-The-Lake-Bus .

Book your Sun Moon Lake accommodation: Itathao Motel

? Discount : if you're planning a trip to Sun Moon Lake,  check out the Sun Moon Lake ropeway combo pass , which includes the ropeway, bike rental, and a boat trip over the lake.

Day 14 – 19: Taipei (part I)

I loved Taipei! I'm not usually one for big cities for a long period of time, but I really enjoyed our time in Taipei, the capital city of Taiwan. We spent 12 days there in total and still didn't run out of things to do.

What I loved most about Taipei is how easy it was to get away from the busy part of town and find some peace and quiet.

There is so much nature just a subway ride away from the center! For example, we hiked a mountain trail in the Maokong area and didn't come across anyone else.

I've written an extensive post about Taipei and a blog about day trips from Taipei , but to sum up, here are some of the main Taipei highlights to add to your Taipei itinerary.

Admire the view from the iconic Taipei 101

Go up to the observation deck on the 91st floor for marvelous birds-eye views of Taipei city ( purchase a fast-track ticket here ).

Explore the National Palace Museum

This huge museum houses one of the world's largest collections of ancient Chinese artifacts and is highly worth a visit. Click here to buy your ticket online .

Hike the Elephant Mountain trail

A steep but short walk to the top of Elephant Mountain (a 183-meter high hill) offering beautiful views over Taipei and the aforementioned Taipei 101.

Visit Chang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall

The Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is a huge and impressive building. Try to time your visit to coincide with the changing of the guards (every hour on the hour from 10 am to 4 pm).

Also visit the nearby Gate of Great Centrality and Perfect Uprightness, National Concert Hall, and the National Theater.

Eat your way around Shilin Night Market 

Shilin Night Market is one of the best night markets in Taiwan, and also one of the largest in the country. Sample some famous street food dishes such as stinky tofu, fried buns, bubble tea, and oyster omelet.

There are so many food stalls you'll inevitably find yourself coming back a second night to try out more typical Taiwanese foods and snacks.

Take a day trip to Maokong

This is a pretty little village on the outskirts of Taipei that can be reached via the Maokong gondola ( buy your online ticket here ) or bus.

There are several great hiking trails around the village, which is known for the cultivation of high-quality tea.

Book your Taipei accommodation: Comma Boutique Hotel

Click here to read about more things to do in Taipei .

Day 20 – 23: Hualien and the Taroko Gorge

The East coast was my favorite part of Taiwan and I have only seen a small section! There are steep cliffs, a stunning blue ocean, marble mountains, and a green jungle.

It's much less populated than the rest of Taiwan, only 4% of the Taiwanese live on the East Coast. We spent 3 days in Hualien and used this relaxed city as a base to explore the famous Taroko Gorge and the area south of Hualien.

Some of the best things to do around Hualien are:

• Qinshui Cliffs : the combination of the steep cliffs and the vivid blue color of the ocean is a spectacular sight.
• Taroko Gorge: one of the most popular places to visit in Taiwan and rightly so, it's a beautiful place. There are hiking trails, waterfalls, rope bridges, and amazing views wherever you look. Click here to book a day trip from Taipei or take a Taroko tour from Hualien city .
• East Coast National Scenic Area : we rented a scooter and went for an adventurous drive along the coast and mountainous area south of Hualien.

Book your Hualien accommodation: Honey B Trip B&B

Click here to read about more things to do in Hualien .

Day 24-29: Taipei (part II)

Because of the approaching typhoon season, it was already very rainy on the East Coast. Therefore we did not continue south to Taitung ( cycling Taiwan’s east coast is a very popular option) but went back to Taipei instead.

In Taipei, we had mostly sunny days for the remainder of our trip and there was a lot more to do in and around Taipei so this was the best option for us.

But I sure would love to see more of the East coast of Taiwan!

Alternative Taiwan itineraries (5, 7, and 10 days + 2 and 3 weeks)

Taiwan itinerary 5 days.

If you just have 5 days to travel around Taiwan, don't worry! While you cannot see everything the island has to offer, you can get a taste and feel of the country.

This is how I would spend a Taiwan 5 day itinerary:

• Day 1-2: Taipei
• Day 3: make a day trip from Taipei (such as Beitou, Tamsui, Wulai, Maokong , or Yehliu Geopark )
• Day 4: travel to Sun Moon Lake
• Day 5: explore Sun Moon Lake and return to Taipei

Taiwan itinerary 7 days

For a 7-day Taiwan itinerary, I'd suggest the following:

• Day 3: make a day trip from Taipei (such as Beitou, Tamsui, Wulai, Maokong or Thousand Island Lake and the Shiding tea township )
• Day 5: explore Sun Moon Lake and travel to Taichung ( book HSR tickets with a discount here )
• Day 6: Taichung
• Day 7: Taichung and return to Taipei

With this Taiwan 1 week itinerary, you will get to explore the buzzing capital as well as Taiwan's second-largest city, Taichung, and one of Taiwan's absolute highlights: the beautiful Sun Moon Lake.

Taiwan itinerary 10 days

This 10 day Taiwan itinerary not only includes the two major cities of Taiwan (Taipei and Taichung), but also the two most beautiful natural sights: Taroko Gorge on the East Coast and Sun Moon Lake in the middle of the Island.

• Day 3: make a day trip from Taipei (such as Beitou, Tamsui, Wulai, or Maokong )
• Day 4: travel to Hualien
• Day 5: visit Taroko Gorge
• Day 6: travel to Sun Moon Lake
• Day 7: Sun Moon Lake
• Day 8-9: Taichung
• Day 10: Return to Taipei

For days 4-10 of this Taiwan 10 day itinerary, it's easiest to rent a car as this will allow you to explore Taroko Gorge independently.

It's also the easiest way to travel from the East Coast to the West coast. If you opt to travel via public transportation, the best way to travel from Hualien to Sun Moon Lake is via Taipei.

Taiwan 2 week itinerary

If you have 2 weeks in Taiwan, I'd recommend traveling either from North to South or vice versa. Your 2 week Taiwan itinerary could look like this:

• Day 1-3: Taipei
• Day 4-5: Sun Moon Lake
• Day 6-7: Taichung
• Day 8-9: Tainan
• Day 10-11: Kenting National Park
• Day 12-14: Kaohsiung

This 2 week Taiwan itinerary is especially suitable for people looking to travel in one direction instead of a loop.

Taiwan 3 week itinerary

If you don't mind a fast-paced itinerary, you could make a complete loop around Taiwain in three weeks. For this 3 week Taiwan itinerary, I'd suggest the following route:

• Day 6-8: Taichung
• Day 9-10: Tainan
• Day 11-13: Kaohsiung
• Day 14-15: Kenting National Park
• Day 16-17: Taitung
• Day 18-20: Hualien and Taroko Gorge
• Day 21: Return to Taipei

You will be traveling a lot with this 3-week itinerary for Taiwan and I'd recommend avoiding monsoon season (which is especially bad on the East Coast).

This itinerary for 3 weeks in Taiwan will show you very different sides of Taiwan. You'll explore several interesting cities, spend enough time at the most beautiful lake in Taiwan and also visit two National Parks (Taroko and Kenting).

Planning a trip to Taiwan: in conclusion

I had a great time in Taiwan and hope this post will help you plan your trip to this wonderful little island.

You can download the map and table with the transport information below. If you have any questions, leave a comment or send me a message !

This post was updated in November 2022.

ViaTravelers

Tuesday 7th of September 2021

Hello, Lotte! Thank you for thsi great blog! Taiwan is such a fascinating place to visit, and I love the Itinerary you gave. It makes an almost two-week trip to Taiwan packed and great!

Monday 4th of October 2021

Thanks for your kind words about my Taiwan itinerary:-) It's such a great country, too bad it's been closed since Covid... Anyway, enjoy your time in Amsterdam (I saw you went on a canal boat trip on your IG).

Monday 18th of January 2021

Thanks so much for sharing such an amazing post of your experience in Taiwan! I've always wanted to visit this country, and your post helped me add even more to my Taiwan must-visit list.

Sunday 24th of January 2021

Thank you for reading my Taiwan post and great to hear it's inspired you (even more) to visit this amazing island. I really loved our time there and would love to go back to explore more (and eat more delicious food...) One day!

Sunday 3rd of January 2021

Thank you so much for all this information. I truly appreciate it! I have been Virtual traveling since C19 and once this pandemic is contained and global green light turns on, Ilike to take my boys (husband and son) to Taiwan. Stay safe and god bless. Thank you

Sunday 10th of January 2021

Hi May Twu,

Thank you for reading my post and most welcome! For now, virtual travel is what will have to do... Hopefully, things will improve in 2021 with vaccine campaigns starting up. I hope you can visit Taiwan in the near future!

Stay safe and thanks again! Lotte

Tuesday 14th of May 2019

Hi. Thanks for the very informative itinerary!

May I know which month did you went to Taiwan? Thanks.

You are welcome! We went to Taiwan in May and left at the start of June. Have a nice trip:-)

Thursday 22nd of February 2018

Thank your for post, it's very useful! Taiwan looks really amazing.

Saturday 24th of February 2018

Thank you, Taiwan is amazing indeed:-)

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17 things you need to know before visiting Taiwan

Oct 29, 2023 • 7 min read

Taiwan is a breeze to visit, but it doesn’t hurt to know a few things before you go © Getty Images / iStockphoto

Taiwan is a breeze to visit, with easy-to-navigate transport systems, handy convenience stores at every turn, and endless restaurants that just hit the spot. 

That said, it doesn’t hurt to prepare a little before you go. Here are some tips from a Taipei resident of seven years.  

1. Book accommodation early

Taiwan’s sweeping range of lodgings means you can live like a multimillionaire or a monk, although it's at the midrange hostels and B&Bs that you’ll get the best deals.

Rooms sell like hot dumplings during summer, Lunar New Year and national holidays. Book at least two months ahead. In Kenting , Jiufen  and Alishan , spots favored by local vacationers and glampers, early reservation is key. Aside from pitching a tent, the cheapest sleeps are at temples with guest rooms.

To hike Taiwan’s highest mountains , you’ll need a permit or two, and the process can take weeks. If you want to stay in the cabins , you’ll need to apply for those as well. The process may not be a walk in the park, but Taiwan’s breathtaking high mountains will reward you generously.  

2. Make restaurant reservations

Eating will be an important part of your trip, and reservations are strongly advised for weekend dining. A few days will do for most restaurants, though Michelin-starred tables, such as RAW and Le Palais , need to be reserved a month or two in advance. Book by phone or on Facebook. A growing number of places will also let you reserve with Google. For walk-in-only hotspots, get there early or get ready to see Taiwan’s famous queue culture in action. 

Dinner service usually begins at 5:30pm and starts winding down in less than three hours. This means your restaurant options grow thin after 8pm — but then street food-filled night markets are always an option.

3. Tap and go with EasyCard or iPass

EasyCard is Taiwan’s contactless smartcard that you can use on the metro, local buses and trains (except high-speed rail), as well as convenience stores and supermarkets. You’ll also need it (and a local phone number) for Youbike, Taiwan’s electronic bike-sharing service. The card itself costs NT$100, and you can top up at any metro station or convenience store. Any unused money is refundable, so don’t lose your card.

iPass is Kaohsiung ’s version of Easycard, which is issued by Taipei. The two are interchangeable. 

4. Download those transportation apps

The government’s bilingual apps are wonderful for checking routes, fares, arrival and departure times, and even whether or not you can bring your cello on board. You can purchase digital train tickets via T Express  (for high-speed rail) and 台鐵e訂通  (for railway), or simply use the apps for information and buy tickets at the station counters.

Taiwan’s metro systems are straightforward, but apps like Taipei's  台北捷運Go  can help you make better decisions about whether to get the day pass or whether you should just bus it. Taiwan’s bus apps give similar information to Google Maps but with more accurate arrival times.

5. Convenience stores are little shops of wonder

Taiwan’s convenience stores let you buy prepaid phone cards, print and photocopy, buy train and concert tickets, send and pick up local packages and use the ATMs.  You can do most of this on an automated kiosk while basking in the aroma of tea-infused eggs, roasted sweet potatoes or whatever decent-tasting rice or pasta dish a fellow customer happens to be reheating for indoor-seated enjoyment. Bear in mind not all kiosks have full English translations, so ask a staff member for help if you need it. Many convenience stores have toilets open to the public, too.

6. Pack enough prescription meds for your trip

If you’re on a specific antidepressant drug, blood pressure medication,or contraceptive pill, bring enough with you to be safe. If you need flu and cold medicine, head over to Watson’s or Cosmed for Tylenol or its local equivalents.  

Sanitary products can be easily purchased from supermarkets and drugstores. Some cafes and restaurants even provide them for free in the women’s toilets. 

7. Be considerate on public transport

The metro  and  buses  have priority seating that's a different color from the other seats. Most Taiwanese who are not elderly, pregnant or physically challenged would never think of sitting there, but in recent years, detractors have been questioning whether age and appearance are accurate reflections of need, arguing that it’s fine for anyone to use the seats until someone needier comes along. Whatever you choose to do, it helps to be aware of these dynamics.

Taiwanese metro commuters take the 'no eating and drinking' rule very seriously. Chewing gum and sips of water are frowned upon. Carriages are also quiet. Your chances of overhearing someone’s life story are disappointingly low. 

8. Tipping is not customary (but it is appreciated)

You are not expected to tip at restaurants, whether or not they levy a 10% to 15% service charge (many do). Taxi drivers don’t expect tips, but you may hear a brighter " xie xie"  (thank you) if you round up to the next dollar. It is courteous to give the porter at better hotels NT$100. If you’re happy with a massage or a tour guide, add 10% to the bill. 

9. Wear whatever you like, but dress respectfully at temples 

While middle-aged Taiwanese tend to dress conservatively, young urbanites in Taipei and Kaohsiung are sartorially quite open-minded. That said, clothes that show more skin, such as crop tops or halternecks, are much less commonly worn than in London or New York, for example, and may get some stares.

It’s a different story when you visit a temple – here, wearing clothes that cover the thighs, shoulders and midriff is regarded as a sign of respect. 

10. Take off your shoes when entering homes 

Taiwanese do not wear outdoor shoes inside their homes. If your host offers you a pair of slippers, accept or propose going with socks. 

It is not customary to remove shoes before entering a temple, especially in urban temples, though the rule may be enforced in a particular hall housing a sacred relic or a fragile heritage building.

11. You can get by without much Chinese

Most Taiwanese in the major cities know at least some English. Naturally, the further you go from the metropolitan areas, the less prevalent the language is. But with the friendliness and hospitality of the Taiwanese, and some help from good old Google Translate, you can get pretty far.

12. Bring your reusable water bottle

Taiwan’s tap water is officially deemed safe to drink; however, it’s hard to know for sure if the pipes in a particular building are up to par. 

Using your own drinking water bottle is by far the cheapest, greenest and safest way to hydrate. There are water fountains in all metro and train stations, public facilities, such as information centers, libraries and museums, and even temples. When checking in at your lodging, ask reception where the water dispenser is.

13. Taiwan is affected by frequent natural disasters

This includes earthquakes, typhoons, floods and landslides. Avoid mountainous areas after quakes and heavy rains. Strong winds often mess up sailing schedules to and from Taiwan’s islands, and cross-island buses may stop running after a landslide. Check with the relevant authorities before heading to the station or pier with your umbrella. 

14. Be wary of where you smoke

Smoking is banned in all indoor public places, such as hotels, restaurants, shopping malls and metro stations, and this is strictly enforced. Smoking at alfresco cafes is common.

15. Taiwan is great for solo women travelers 

Taiwan has a very low crime rate, and many solo women travelers report feeling safer here than in other destinations. Some train and metro stations have nocturnal women-only wait zones that you can take advantage of, especially if traveling alone at night. 

16. Taiwan is a welcoming place for LGBTIQ+ travelers

The first country in Asia to legalize same-sex marriage, Taiwan is friendly and progressive, especially Taipei, home of the Chinese-speaking world's most vibrant Pride parade. Kaohsiung, which has its own Pride, comes a close second. In terms of nightlife, however, Taipei wins hands down. Useful resources include Utopia , Taiwan Tongzhi (LGBTQ+) Hotline Association  and Taiwan LGBT Pride .

17. Taiwan is fantastic for toilets

Free and usually spotlessly clean facilities are everywhere. While most public toilets are the squat style, there are usually at least one or two stalls with sit-down facilities. They often also have toilet paper. Western-style toilets are standard in hotels and apartments. Many restaurants ask you not to flush used toilet paper but to put it in the wastebasket beside your throne.

This article was first published Oct 22, 2022 and updated Oct 29, 2023.

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Taiwan travel advice

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Check out the general travel tips for staying safe and healthy in Taiwan, risks of preventable diseases and what to pack.

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Taiwan covid live updates

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Taiwan FAQs

Read our frequently asked questions about travelling to Taiwan including the current entry restrictions, covid rules, driving side, electrical plugs used and much more.

Are there entry restrictions to Taiwan due to Covid-19?

Taiwan is open for tourism from the UK. Numerous self-administered tests required during 7 days of semi isolation. Check out Ministry of Health & Welfare, Taiwan for more information.

Do I need to quarantine in the UK if I travel from Taiwan?

You do not need to quarantine on arrival in the UK from Taiwan. The UK no longer requires a passenger locator form, Covid-19 test or proof of vaccination.

What is the time difference between Taiwan and the UK?

The time difference between Taiwan and the UK is UK time+8 hours .

What is the main language spoken in Taiwan?

The main language spoken in Taiwan is Chinese . Learn a language for Taiwan with Rosetta Stone * , Mondly * and Busuu * .

What is the currency in Taiwan?

The currency in Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar ( TWD ).

Which plugs are used in Taiwan?

Taiwan uses electrical plug type A + B (110 Volts) .

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They drive on the right side of the road in Taiwan. Find out more about driving in Taiwan with International Drivers Association * .

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Yes, UK passport holders do need a visa to enter Taiwan. Check Taiwan visa requirements for all passport holders with VisaHQ * and iVisa.com * .

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Can I travel to Taiwan from the United Kingdom?

Most visitors from the United Kingdom, regardless of vaccination status, can enter Taiwan.

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The Ultimate Taiwan Itinerary for 2024

This post may contain compensated links. Find more info in our disclosure policy

Having completed our own amazing two week Taiwan itinerary exploring the cities, mountains and scenic areas of Taiwan we’ve put together our recommended Taiwan itinerary. From chaotic Taipei to the beauty of Taroko Gorge to the natural wonder of Alishan, Taiwan is breathtaking and one of our favorite places to visit in Asia.  For those of you planning your own Taiwan itinerary, we wanted to share our Taiwan travel guide including the best things to do and what to see in Taiwan. 

Table of Contents

Taiwan Itinerary and Route

Most visitors touring around Taiwan either pick up a rental car and self-drive or use a mix of high-speed trains, tourist shuttles and taxis/private drivers to explore the country.

By rental car: With its excellent roads and good driving standards, Taiwan is the perfect country for a road trip. We followed a circular route starting and ending in Taipei, Taiwan’s capital city and the point of arrival and departure for most Taiwan travellers – check prices now!

By public transport:  this Taiwan itinerary can also be completed by a mix of trains and buses. On the west coast of Taiwan, the major cities are serviced by High-Speed Rail – check prices here!

  Click here to reserve Taiwan Rail tickets!

Taiwan Route and Map

Here is a map of the route we recommend taking around Taiwan.

The Route:  Taipei – Taichung – Alishan – Kaohsiung – Kenting – Taitung – Taroko Gorge – Taipei

Click here for the Google map

How to Use This Google Map:  Click on the grey star at the top of the map and this map will be added to your Google Maps account. You can then view it on your phone or computer in Google Maps by clicking on the menu button, going to “Your Places” and selecting this map. We use these maps all the time as you can set out your itinerary ahead of time and quickly reference the saved maps.

Renting a car in Taiwan

Navigating Taiwan by rental car is relatively easy and we highly recommend renting a car in Taiwan if you are comfortable driving. The roads are high-quality, driving standards are generally good and fuel is extremely cheap (compared to the UK and Ireland). We also used our rental car as part of our Taipei itinerary for the day trips from Taipei.

We’re huge fans of road trips and have driven rental cars in almost 50 countries so we have a lot of experience renting cars in foreign countries. Klook.com is a great option as it includes international rental car companies as well as some local options. Book your car now with Klook.com  where you will find the best rental car prices.

Taiwan itinerary tip: An International Driving Permit is mandatory when renting a car in Taiwan so make sure to get an IDP in your home country before departure if you are planning on driving a rental car.

Book your rental car with Klook!

Taiwan itinerary tip: Taipei is extremely well serviced by public transport and its subway is easy to navigate. As such, a rental car isn’t necessary in the city. If you are starting your Taiwan itinerary in Taipei, we recommend only picking up a car after you’ve explored Taipei rather than reserving at the airport on arrival. We picked up our rental car on our last morning in Taipei and left the city immediately for Taichung.  

Sim Card & Internet

As with most countries, having mobile data during a trip is invaluable for navigation and research. There are lots of options on arrival at Taipei’s Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) – we reserved a Chunghwa Telecom 4g sim through Klook who offer a slightly discounted rate on the airport price – click here for prices!

Taiwan itinerary tip: the Chunghwa desk only opens at 8am so make sure your flight times will work if you reserve in advance.

  Click here to reserve a SIM card!

How long to spend in Taiwan

From the chaotic Taipei to the magnificent sunrises in Alishan, the peaceful Taroko Gorge and the colourful Taichung there’s a lot to squeeze into a Taiwan itinerary. We recommend budgeting around 14 nights to explore Taiwan at a leisurely pace. This will allow you enough time to visit all the major sights and explore each destination fully.  You might wish to cut some things out if you have less time.

Best Time To Visit Taiwan

Depending on your tolerance to high temperatures, you may want to plan your visit to coincide with the cooler months! During the summer, temperatures are consistently over 30° and typhoon season is in full force. Spring and Autumn are a great time to visit Taiwan and its mild winters also mean the winter months are a good option.

Taiwan itinerary tip:  We visited Taiwan at the end of September and we managed to experience a heatwave as well as some typhoons which luckily changed direction at the last minute! The temperatures in Taipei were stifling and we had to retreat to air-conditioned buildings until late in the afternoon.

Daily Taiwan Itinerary

We’ve outlined our day to day Taiwan itinerary as a starting point for planning your own Taiwan experience.

Days 1 to 4: Taipei

Taiwan’s capital city really surprised us with the wide variety of things to see and do. After arriving at Taipei’s Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport we recommend spending the next three or four nights in Taipei. This will allow you to explore the main sights and to enjoy everything that this fun and chaotic city has to offer. We took the train from Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) to Taipei Main Station – click here for tickets

Buy your MRT tickets to Taipei now

An EasyCard makes travel around Taipei and Kaohsiung incredibly easy. The EasyCard is a travel card that you can pre-order in advance and pick up in Taoyuan International Airport. You can preload the card with credit and use it on the metro and buses in Taipei. You can also bundle it with a sim card option that you can pick up at the same time – check prices now!

Buy your EasyCard now

From toilet-themed restaurants to colourful temples, stunning nature and awesome day trips, there’s plenty to squeeze into 4 days in Taipei. Check out our round-up of the best things to do in Taipei for more detailed information and photos of each of the attractions. Also check out our detailed Taipei itinerary to help you plan your time in the city. If you are travelling with kids make sure to check out our guide to the best things to do in Taipei with kids .

Where to Stay in Taipei

There are many great accommodation options in Taipei.

• CityInn Hotel Plus Ximending Branch–  we stayed in the CityInn Ximending branch and highly recommend both the location and the hotel. Rooms are compact but fantastic value, service is excellent and the hotel is just a few moments walk from the MRT, a Taipei essential  –  check prices now!
• Taipei Garden Hotel – another great option located close to Longshan Temple and Ximending –  check prices now!
• Dandy Hotel, Daan Park – clean, comfortable and located across the street from Taipei’s biggest park, Daan Forest Park –  check prices now!            

Book your Taipei hotel now

Day 1: Taipei 101, Maokong Gondola and Shilin Night Market

Start the day with a trip to the observation deck of Taipei 101, Taipei’s most iconic building. The 101 story building resembles a giant bamboo stick and the 91st-floor outdoor observation deck offers amazing 360-degree views of the city.

We booked our tickets for Taipei 101 via Klook and highly recommend it. You can reserve your timeslot in advance and for the best price using the Klook app. It’s super simple and avoids waiting in extra lines when Taipei 101 gets busy.  Taiwan activities were mostly discounted when we booked in advance –  check prices now!

Book your Taipei 101 ticket now

From Taipei 101 make your way to the Taipei Zoo MRT Station where the scenic Maokong Gondola cable car departs. The 30minute glass-bottomed cable car stops at the colourful Zhinan Temple before continuing to the quaint mountaintop village of Maokong known for its tea plantations and tea shops.

Taiwan Itinerary tip:  We purchased combo tickets for the Maokong Gondola and an evening double decker sightseeing tour from Klook in advance and it was awesome value. The gondola is closed most Monday’s so make sure to plan your trip around the gondola’s opening hours – click here to purchase the gondola and night tour combo tickets!

Click here to purchase Gondola tickets

Finish the day with a visit to Shilin Night Market, Taipei’s largest night market with over 500 stalls. There are some incredible Bid Gourmand stalls serving dishes such as Hai You Pork Ribs and Bin Small Sausage in Large Sausage, where the sausage wrapped in sticky rice is a huge hit. There’s a lot more to Shilin than just food and you can do everything from playing arcade games to praying in the temple located in the centre of the market.

Day 2: Elephant Mountain, CKS Memorial Hall, Ximending and Raohe night market

Start the day with a short but steep sunrise hike up Elephant Mountain which rewards with some of the best views of Taipei. The trail is well maintained with plenty of rest stops and some awesome viewing platforms.

After admiring Taipei from Elephant Mountain it’s time to explore the history of Taiwan with a visit to the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. The CKS Memorial is an important Taiwanese landmark erected in honour of the first president of Taiwan.

A themed cafe is a Taipei staple and a trip to the Modern Toilet Restaurant in Ximending is as novelty as they come. The entire restaurant is toilet themed. Meals are served in toilets, drinks in bedpans and the seats are full-sized toilets! Having filled up on poo themed dishes take a stroll around Ximending, one of Taipei’s quirkiest neighbourhoods.

If you prefer a serious foodie treat, eat at the Fuhung Noodle Restaurant. The shop is located just north of Ximending and is home to some of the best noodles we’ve ever had.

Longshan Temple is next on the agenda. Longshan is Taiwan’s most famous and well-loved temple and is located in the historic neighbourhood of Wanhua.

If you still have some energy, the Raohe Night Market is a short MRT ride away and is perfect for an early evening walk through.

Taiwan itinerary tip: our favourite dish in Raohe was the Fuzhou Shizu Black Pepper Buns. They are not to be missed!

Day 3: Taipei park, the world’s highest Starbucks and Beitou Hot Springs

Start the morning with a visit to one of Taipei’s parks. Our favourites are Daan Forest Park, Taipei’s largest park, the Huashan 1914 Creative Park, a repurposed art, design and cultural venue and 228 Peace Memorial Park, a poignant tribute to the thousands of Taiwanese who died in the February 28, 1947, massacre.

In the past it was possible to visit the world’s highest Starbucks which was located on the 35th floor at Taipei 101 and offered spectacular views of Taipei. Unfortunately in 2019 the store was closed and was not replaced. The Starbucks is now located in the mall at the base of Taipei 101.

Spend the afternoon at the Beitou Hot Springs which are just 30 minutes outside Taipei and accessible via the MRT. There is a wide range of options for bathing in the hot springs: there are less expensive public hot springs as well as private baths and upscale hotels and resorts. As well as bathing, the scenic Beitou Hot Spring Park is beautiful to explore together with the Hot Spring Museum and Library which are located within the park.

Day 4: Jiufen, Shifen and Yehliu Geopark

Taipei is surrounded by amazing natural beauty and a day trip outside the city is an essential addition to any Taipei itinerary. Shifen, Jiufen and the Yehliu Geopark are a great combination to discover a taste of Northern Taiwan.

The Yehliu Geopark contains a fascinating collection of unique geological formations in an otherworldly landscape created by sea erosion. It’s a beautiful coastal walk and a very popular stop outside Taipei.

The old street in the charming town of Jiufen is a tourist magnet with visitors indulging in local specialities such as glutinous rice cakes, peanut ice cream and fish balls in between souvenir shopping. The A-Mei Tea House is one of the most prominent landmarks in Jiufen and offers both great tea and great views!

Shifen is famous for both its old street and its scenic waterfall. The old streets of Shifen, located around the railway track, are where visitors congregate to release colourful lanterns bearing their wishes in life.

Taiwan itinerary tip : we visited Jiufen, Shiefen and Yeuhliu Geo Park using our rental car. If you prefer to use a tour, Klook offers a great shuttle bus options which ferries passengers between the key sights of Jiufen, Shifen and the Yehliu Geo Park on the North East coast of Taiwan –  click here to reserve shuttle bus tickets!

Click here to reserve shuttle bus tickets

Days 5 and 6: Taichung

After a few days of exploring Taipei, it’s time to head south to Taichung, Taiwan’s second-largest city. Taichung is busy and colourful and was a surprise hit in our Taiwan itinerary! There are lots of things to do Taichung and it is also the gateway for the immensely popular Sun Moon Lake, one of Taiwan’s most popular tourist attractions.

Where to Stay in Taichung

Taichung is a surprisingly large city and choosing where to stay can be tricky. We recommend:

• CityInn Hotel Plus – Taichung Station Branch – we loved the CityInn brand in Taiwan. Located in east Taichung beside Taichung’s main train station, the CityInn Hotel Plus is a great option. Rooms are clean and modern and the extra facilities like free common areas with coffee/refreshments and on-site laundry are invaluable –  click here to book now!
• La Vida Hotel – Regularly rated as one of the best hotels in Taichung, La Vida Hotel is a great option for those who want easy access to the Feng Chia Night Market. With European designed rooms the hotel is super comfortable and great for a stay in Taichung –    click here to book now!
• The Hung’s Mansion – where we chose to stay in Taichung and it’s a great option if you are driving like we were. With free parking, large comfortable rooms and great food, Hungs Mansion is also a short walk to the incredible Feng Chia Night Market – click here to book now!

Book your Taichung hotel now

How to get to Taichung

I t took us around 2 hours to drive between Taipei and Taichung .  I t takes one hour to travel by High-Speed Rail between Taipei and Taichung –  click here to buy rail tickets!

Buy your rail tickets here

Things to do in Taichung

Taichung deserves at least one full day to explore and, if we were to return, we’d allow two days! Start the morning at Rainbow Village , Taiwan’s most colourful neighbourhood before heading north of the city to the beautiful Zhongshe Flower Market. As well as a sea of flowers, props such as pianos, swings, and tractors make for great fun and great photo opportunities.

Taiwan itinerary tip:  tour buses arrive at Rainbow Village shortly after its 8am opening so we recommend arriving as close to 8am as possible. Zhongshe Flower Market tends to get busy in the afternoon when families congregate for barbeques.

Animation Alley is a great pit stop with its cartoon and Magna themed street art.

The 921 Earthquake Museum is a poignant place to visit: it is located on the site of a former junior high school and crosses the fault on which the earthquake occurred. The exterior remains as it did after the earthquake on Tuesday, 21 September 1999.

There are endless food and drink options in Taichung: our three favourites are Chung Shiu Tang, the touted home of Taiwan’s famous bubble tea, Miyahara for its Pineapple Cakes and I’m Talato, an ice cream shop with an ice cream floatie filled pool.

Round up the day with a trip to Feng Chia Night Market where the food is good and the clothing unique.

Day 7: Sun Moon Lake

How to get to Sun Moon Lake: Sun Moon Lake is a 1hour 15-minute drive from Taichung and is easily accessible by bus from both Taichung (approximately 2 hours) or Alishan (up to 3.5hours).

The cycle path surrounding the turquoise blue waters of Sun Moon Lake is one of the most popular ways to explore the Sun Moon Lake area. There’s also a scenic gondola cable car that offers beautiful views of the lake and connects it with the Formosa Aboriginal Cultural Village.

Our other favourite stops were the Ci-En Pagoda and the Wen-Wu Temple . The 8 story Ci-En Pagoda requires a short uphill hike and is renowned for its views over the lake while the Chinese style Wen-Wu is vibrant and loud and there are lovely views of the lake over the burnt orange rooftops.

Finish the day with some street food at Ita Thao before returning to Taichung for the night.

Taiwan itinerary tip: the drive between Taichung and Sun Moon Lake takes about 75 minutes so we preferred to base ourselves in Taichung. Sun Moon Lake accommodation tends to be more expensive given its tourist draw and we were happy to drive.

Where to stay in Sun Moon Lake

If you wish to stay in the Sun Moon Lake area, some good options are:

• Fleur de Chine Hotel Sun Moon Lake: expensive but excellent with beautiful views over the lake – check prices now!
• Mei Jen House: homestay with great rooms, a vegan breakfast and an awesome sunrise tour. A great small but budget-friendly option in Sun Moon Lake – check prices now!

Book your Sun Moon hotel now

Day 8: Alishan

A mix of wilderness and tea plantations characterize the mountainous Alishan National Scenic Area. The Alishan sunrises are legendary in Taiwan and our time in Alishan was a highlight of our trip. From chasing the ‘Yun Hai’, the coveted sea cloud sunrise, to the historic railway and the stunning hiking trails Alishan is an excellent addition to any Taiwan itinerary.

Where to Stay in Alishan

• Alishan House/Alishan Hotel – the best hotel in the Alishan National Scenic Area and where we spent our night in Alishan. Rooms are expensive but the location is outstanding. It is worth the extra for the upgrade from the dated standard room in the old building to a superior room in the new building. Guests are not allowed to drive into the Scenic Area but the hotel runs a regular shuttle bus between the car park and the hotel – check prices now!
• Wankou Hotel: 5 minutes walk from the train station, Wankou Hotel is a good less expensive option to Alishan House. Nice views, clean rooms and good value accommodation – check prices now!
• Cing Shan Hotel : basic option located close to the train station, rooms are compact – check prices now!

Book your Alishan Hotel now

How to get to Alishan

The High-Speed Railway takes less than 40 minutes between Taichung and Chiayi Station and, from Chiayi, the bus takes 2 hours. Direct buses from Sun Moon Lake take up to 3.5hours. The drive from Taichung took around 3 hours in total.

Things to do in Alishan

There are 5 Wonders of Alishan and, although luck and weather dependent, most visitors strive to see them all. The 5 Wonders of Alishan are:

• Alishan Forest Railway
• The forest trails
• The sea of clouds

Taiwan itinerary tip: With some planning it’s possible to see Alishan’s Wonders during a one-night stay. If you wish to explore more extensively or at a more leisurely pace then extend the stay to two nights.

Aim to arrive in Alishan in the afternoon and take advantage of some of the stunning hiking trails in the area. Our favourite hike was to the Sacred Tree, estimated to be 3,000 years old before it collapsed in 1997. It’s located at the Sacred Tree (Shenmu) Railway and the trails pass giant red cypress trees which are over 1,000 years old.

After exploring the Alishan trails make sure to catch a famous Alishan sunset – we watched it from the amazingly located observation deck at the Alishan House Hotel , one of the best sunset spots in the Alishan Scenic Area.

Click here to reserve the Alishan House Hotel

It’s an early start in order to catch the legendary Alishan sunrise. We arranged our shuttle bus to the train station through the Alishan House Hotel on arrival the previous afternoon. After a 4:30 am wake-up call, we boarded the train to Chusan and watched the sunrise from the viewing platform.

After checking out we stopped by the Alishan Post Office and posted a traditional Alishan wooded postcard before leaving for Kaohsiung.

Day 9: Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung is a large port city in Southern Taiwan. Although we used it as a stopover between Alishan and Kaohsiung, we soon discovered it is vibrant and charming in its own right.

Where to stay in Kaohsiung 

• Grand Hi La –  one of the best hotels in Kaohsiung. With a perfect location in the centre of the Sanduo shopping district, Hotel Cozzi has luxurious rooms and high-end furnishings which make for a truly amazing stay – check prices now!
• Hotel Cozzi  – this large luxury hotel is conveniently located above a shopping mall right in the centre of Kaohsiung and is a great option for exploring the city. There are lots of restaurants close to the hotel –  check prices now!
• Hotel Dua –  g reat transport connections via the adjacent MRT station the Hotel Dua is a great location for exploring the city  –  check prices now!

Book your Kaohsiung Hotel now

How to get to Kaohsiung

Take the bus from Alishan to Chiayi Station (journey time is around 2 hours 10 minutes) and, from there, take the train to Kaohsiung, a further 2 hours 10 minutes. Our drive time was around 3 hours in total.

Things to do in Kaohsiung

We only had a half day to explore Kaohsiung as we used the city as a stopover on our journey between Alishan and Kenting. The city deserves at least to days to see properly and if you are staying in the city, some of the best things to do in Kaohsiung are:

• Kaohsiung Night Markets: the Ruifeng Night Market is considered one of the best night food markets in Taiwan and its stalls serve up a mouth-watering array of local delicacies.
• Lotus Pond and the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas: visitors to Kaohsiung are encouraged run into the mouth of the dragon and out of the tiger’s jaws at the 7-story twin Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. The reward is a reversal in fortune and a turn from bad luck to good.
• Cycle Cijn Island: Cijn Island is a black sand beach on a narrow strip of island in the city. The island, accessible by ferry or bridge, is a popular day excursion in Kaohsiung.
• Dream Mall: Kaohsiung’s Dream Mall is the largest in Taiwan and East Asia and even boasts an amusement park with a Ferris Wheel on its rooftop!
• Pier 2: once an abandoned warehouse site, Pier 2 now houses a large scale open air public art display. The quirky sculptures and artworks are a real treat and the area is vibrant and lively and one of the best places to visit in Kaohsiung.

Day 10 and 11: Kenting

The seaside town of Kenting is located at the southern tip of Taiwan and is famous for its picturesque beaches and lush green national park.

Where to stay in Kenting

Accommodation in Kenting is a mix of resort-style beachside hotels and smaller, boutique-style options.

• Caesar Park Hotel – resort hotel with direct beach access and an abundance of kids activities including a kids recreation centre in the basement –  check prices now!
• Chateau Beach Resort – located by the beach, just 5 to 10 minutes from Kenting Main Street. The hotel has stunning ocean views and a nice pool area – check prices now!
• Amanda Kenting – we opted for the smaller Amanda Kenting Hotel. The Moroccan themed hotel has great rooms, a lovely indoor pool and free exotic costume rental for photos! – check prices now!

Book your Kenting Hotel now

How to get to Kenting:

take the Kenting Express Bus from Kaohsiung’s Zuoying HSR station to Kenting. The journey time varies between 2 and 3 hours. The drive time is less than 2 hours.

Things to do in Kenting

Kenting is the perfect spot for some rest and relaxation. While we didn’t follow a strict itinerary, our favourite activities included:

• a ride on the Kenting Hai World Semi Submarine with its glass-bottomed panoramic views of the Kenting coral reefs
• paddling in the tidepools and shallow swimming spots
• visiting Baisha White Sand Bay, a beautiful beach which featured in the movie The Life of Pi
• exploring Kenting National Park and its lighthouse
• standing at the southernmost point in Taiwan which is marked by an observation station
• indulging in the street food, clothes and carnival games at the Kenting Night Market
• Snorkeling in Wanlitong Beach

Day 12: Taitung

Taitung is a sprawling, coastal town and a popular stopover between Kenting and Taroko Gorge. It is home to the Beinan Cultural Park, one of the largest and most important cultural sites in Taiwan. Taitung also acts as a gateway to the volcanic islands of Green Island and Orchid Island.

Where to stay in Taitung

• Kindness Hotel – clean and comfortable option with good breakfast and evening night snacks in Taitung city –  check prices now!
• Papago International Resort – although one hour outside Taitung it is a great location for a stopover between Kenting and Taroko Gorge. Lovely outdoor pool, hot tub and hot springs with a children’s playground – check prices now!
• Inn by the Village – located close to the railway, rooms are modern and spacious and the breakfast decent – check prices now!

Book your Taitung hotel now

How to get to Taitung:

take the bus from Kenting to Fanglaio (journey time 1 hour). From there, take the train between Fanglaio and Taitung (90 minutes). The drive time is 2 hours 30 minutes.

Things to do in Taitung

If you have time to explore Taitung some of the best things to do are:

• Beinan Cultural Park: the largest and most important cultural site in Taiwan. It was excavated in the 1980s when thousands of slate coffins were unearthed together with jewellery, pottery and tools.
• Brown Road: home to the famous Mr Brown Taiwanese Coffee and surrounded by rice fields and mountains.
• Orchid Island and Green Island: volcanic islands off the coast of Taitung famous for snorkelling, hot springs, coastal scenery and strong Aboriginal culture.

Day 13 and 14: Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge is another stunning stop in Taiwan. Taroko means magnificent and splendid and the mesmerizing scenery makes it more than deserving of the name. The steep mountains are covered in thick forest and a deep gorge carved out by the Liwu River, winds through the forest floor.

Where to stay in Taroko Gorge

Visitors to Taroko Gorge can stay in the Taroko National Park, close to the entrance to the park or in nearby Hualien where the trains from Taipei arrive and depart. We recommend staying in the park for both the close to nature experience and the convenience for sightseeing.

• Silks Place Taroko: we treated ourselves to a gorge view room in the luxury Silks Place Taroko which is located in the heart of the Taroko National Park. The facilities are amazing: there’s a rooftop outdoor pool (where we enjoyed a movie screening in the evening) and hot tubs, an indoor pool and tennis courts – check prices now!
• Taroko Village Hotel: located less than 1km from Swallow Grotto, the Taroko Village Hotel is a less expensive option to Silks Place for guests wanting to stay inside the Taroko National Park – check prices now!
• Chateau de Chine Hotel Hualien: if you opt for Hualien the Chateau de Chine Hotel is a good choice with its colourful exterior and spacious themed rooms– check prices now!

Book your Taroko Gorge Hotel now

How to get to Taroko Gorge:

we drove from Taitung to the Taroko National Park (around 4 hours). Public transport services the nearby city of Hualien, a 4-hour bus journey from Taitung. If you are arriving from Alishan you can take the bus to Taroko Gorge. If you are arriving from Taipei, an express train serves Hualien.

How to get around Taroko Gorge: there are a few options for navigating Taroko National Park. We used our rental car to explore. Many guests use a taxi/private car or rent a motorbike. If you are based in Hualien, it’s easy to join a tour – reserve a Taroko Gorge tour here!

Things to do in Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge is all about nature and most visitors spend the day hopping between its best short trails, bridges and viewpoints!

Begin the day with a hike through the relatively easy 4km Baiyang Trail which rewards with a stunning water curtain as well as magnificent views of the gorge along the way. Start early to avoid the crowds, bring a flashlight to navigate the tunnels and beware of the monkeys! Due to loose rock visitors are only allowed to the entrance of the first Water Curtain.

The next stop is the ever-popular Swallow Grotto, one of the best places from which to view the gorge. It is a short and flat footpath in the middle of the park and the surrounding river walls are lined with swallow nests

The Taroko Eternal Spring Changchun Shrine is one of the most popular sites in the park. The stunning temple sits atop a natural spring and was built in honour of the many who lost their lives building the highway through Taroko National Park.

We also loved the Chingxi Suspension Bridge and the Cimu Bridge. On the way out of the park make sure to stop at the stunning Qinghui Cliffs where visitors have the opportunity to admire the three distinct color tones that make up the Pacific Ocean

Taiwan itinerary tip: some of the trails in Taroko Gorge are closed due to weather damage so make sure to check the official website for the latest trail availability. There is a Visitor’s Centre at the entrance to the park which also provides trail information.

Day 15: Depart Taipei

Day 15 is a day of leisure until it’s time for your flight from Taipei.

How to get to Taipei: take the bus from Taroko Gorge to Hualien or Xincheng Station and then hop on the train to Taipei. The drive took around 3 hours.

For more on Taiwan

• Check out our round up of the best things to do in Taipei!

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Travel Vaccines and Advice for Taiwan

A small island off the coast of China, Taiwan is a destination known for its tropical temperatures and gorgeous landscapes. It boasts cultural attractions in its many beautiful cities as well as many stunning views in its many forests and national parks. This small but versatile island has something to offer to every type of traveller.

On This Page: Do I Need Vaccines for Taiwan? Do I Need a Visa for Taiwan? What is the Climate Like in Taiwan? How Safe is Taiwan? Visit Pagodas and Pavilions in Kaohsiung Port What Should I Pack for Taiwan? Embassy of the United Kingdom in Taiwan

Do I Need Vaccines for Taiwan?

Yes, some vaccines are recommended or required for Taiwan. The National Travel Health Network and Centre and WHO recommend the following vaccinations for Taiwan: COVID-19 , hepatitis A , hepatitis B , Japanese encephalitis , rabies and tetanus .

See the bullets below to learn more about some of these key immunisations:

• COVID-19 – Airborne – Recommended for all travellers
• Hepatitis A – Food & Water – Recommended for most travellers to the region, especially if unvaccinated.
• Hepatitis B – Blood & Body Fluids – Recommended for travellers to most regions.
• Tetanus – Wounds or Breaks in Skin – Recommended for travelers to most regions, especially if not previously vaccinated.
• Japanese Encephalitis – Mosquito – Recommended depending on itinerary and activities. Recommended for extended travel, recurrent travellers and travel to rural areas. Most common May to October, throughout island.
• Rabies – Saliva of Infected Animals – Moderate risk country. Vaccine recommended for long-stay travellers and those who may come in contact with animals.

See the tables below for more information:

Dengue and chikungunya are both present in Taiwan. The mosquito-borne infections pose a threat to travellers of all kinds. Ensure you bring repellent and netting for your trip.

See our vaccinations page to learn more about these infections and vaccines. Ready to protect yourself? Book your travel health appointment today by calling or schedule online now .

Do I Need a Visa for Taiwan?

A visa is not required for travel to Taiwan that last less than 90 days. Passports must have at least six months validity for entry. Proof of yellow fever vaccination may be required if you are travelling from a region where yellow fever is present.

Sources: Embassy of Taiwan and GOV.UK

What is the Climate Like in Taiwan?

Taiwan’s climate varies between subtropical and tropical. But, the whole country is likely to have high temperatures and a humid climate for much of the year. Summers can be excessively hot and humid, with heavy rainfall and even typhoons. November to April has milder weather and milder temperatures. This is the most popular time for tourism.

• Taipei – In the capital city of Taipei, located in the northeast, rain is a common occurrence. Even in the winter months Taipei often receives abundant rainfall. In winter, the temperatures usually will not dip below 10. Summer temps can be in the 30’s.
• Tainan – A city located in the south of the island, Tainan experiences temperatures like Taipei. But, Tainan receives much less rainfall outside of monsoon season. This means that its winters and springs are much drier.
• Yushan – The city of Yushan is located in central Taiwan, in the mountains. Due to the altitude, Yushan has much colder temperatures than sea-level tropical cities. Temperatures often dip below freezing in the winters. Summers rarely reach higher than 15 degrees.

How Safe is Taiwan?

Taiwan is a country with minimal street crime as well as minimal violent crime. It’s always smart to be aware of your surroundings and be cautious with your belongings. But, very few visitors to Taiwan will be the victims of crime.

The most dangerous events in Taiwan are typhoons that occur in the humid summer months. Earthquakes can also cause hazardous situations. Pay attention to any local natural disaster warnings.

Visit Pagodas and Pavilions in Kaohsiung Port

Most visitors will visit Taipei, the capital city of Taiwan. But few travel out to Kaohsiung, a vibrant city located on the southwestern coast of the island. Kaohsiung is Taiwan’s largest port city, and it offers all the attractions of a busy, bustling city with cultural and historical jewels.

Some of the most well-known attractions in Kaohsiung are the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. The largest Confucian temple in Taiwan is also nearby.

If you want to experience the natural beauty of Taiwan, only an hour and a half trip from Kaohsiung is the Maolin National Scenic Area. This region has stunning forests, gorges, and waterfalls.

What Should I Pack for Taiwan?

Many American brands of goods and clothing are available in Taiwan, but it’s still a good idea to be prepared. When going to Taiwan, it’s always important to pack the essentials, such as:

• Rain Gear – With the unpredictable weather in the country, especially during the summer, a good umbrella and raincoat are a must.
• Light Layers – The climate in Taiwan tends to be very warm, so be sure to bring clothing that can keep you cool. But, the temperature can drop at nights, so a few outer layers are a good idea. If you’ll be in the mountains in winter, you’ll probably want some heavy layers too.
• Mosquito Repellent – Because Taiwan is a tropical island, mosquitoes are common. These insects often carry diseases of various types. Ensure you’re protected with repellents.
• Hand Sanitizer and Tissues – You may find that some public toilets in Taiwan are missing some basic necessities, such as hand soap or toilet paper. Be prepared for this by bringing a bottle of Purell and a pack of tissues everywhere you go.

Embassy of the United Kingdom in Taiwan

If you are in Taiwan and have an emergency (for example, been attacked, arrested or someone has died) contact the nearest consular services. Contact the embassy before arrival if you have additional questions on entry requirements, safety concerns or are in need of assistance.

British Office Taipei 26F, President International Tower No. 9-11, Song Gao Road, Xin Yin District Taipei 11073 Taiwan Telephone: +886 (2) 8758 2088 Emergency Phone: +886 2 8758 2088 Fax: +886 (2) 8758 2050 Email: [email protected]

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Taiwan travel guide

Sitting pretty as one of Asia’s best-kept travel secrets, the spicy, scenic island of Taiwan makes a habit of smashing visitor preconceptions.

Outsiders tend to see this country as notable only for its technological prowess – an image reinforced by the global prominence of ‘Made in Taiwan’ stickers – but in reality this is a destination that serves up awe-inspiring panoramas, a rainbow of different cultures and a startlingly rich history.

Alongside night markets, cycle trails and hot springs, there are gleaming skyscrapers, hulking mountains and sparkling lakes. When you factor in the manageable size of the island, which is less than half the size of Scotland, the appeal becomes even more significant.

Taiwan is one of the few places on Earth where ancient religious and cultural practices still thrive in an overwhelmingly modernist landscape. This juxtaposition is expressed most clearly in Taipei, where futuristic marvels like Taipei 101 – one of the tallest buildings in the world – share the city with incense-fogged temples and indigenous communities.

This mix of different influences is wonderfully showcased by the island’s cuisine – a lip-smacking blend of Chinese, Japanese and aboriginal fare.

Like many aspects of life in Taiwan, its diverse cuisine makes sense when you look at the island’s history. Following five decades of Japanese rule, in 1949 a liberated Taiwan became a refuge for the Chinese Nationalist Party and their supporters, who fled here during the Chinese Civil War. To this day, Taiwan remains a product of this period – a maverick sovereign state still viewed with uneasiness by Beijing.

History buff or not, there’s much to enjoy in Taiwan. Away from the sleek towers of the cities, it’s the valleys, lakes and gorges of the countryside that tend to leave the greatest impression. The fact that comparatively few tourists make it here is more to do with a lack of awareness than a lack of things to do – hikers, cyclists, divers, surfers, pilgrims and gourmands will all find a little slice of heaven in this corner of Asia.

36,188 sq km (13,972 sq miles).

23,395,600 (UN estimate 2016).

647 per sq km.

President Lai Ching-te since 2024.

Premier Cho Jung-tai since 2024.

Travel Advice

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice .

The UK does not recognise Taiwan as a state and has no diplomatic relations with Taiwan, so limited consular services are available to British nationals. Please refer to the British Office in Taipei for further information.

Before you travel

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes:

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated.

Travel insurance

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport , for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Taiwan set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the Taipei Representative Office in London or the Taipei Representative Office in Edinburgh . Entry procedures are being regularly reviewed, so may change at short notice.

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Taiwan.

Epidemic prevention period

When you arrive in Taiwan, the authorities advise that you observe a 7-day self-initiated epidemic prevention period, but you no longer need a negative test result before going out. The authorities are no longer providing free rapid test kits on arrival. You can use your booked accommodation and you can move freely during the 7 days.

This self-health management scheme is provided as guidance by the Central Epidemic Command Center (CECC), and members of the public are free to decide whether to follow it. Please consult the Centres for Disease Control website for the latest guidance.

Passport validity requirements

To enter Taiwan, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the day you arrive.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can spend up to 90 days in Taiwan without a visa. You can extend this by a further 90 days once you have arrived in Taiwan. You can get more information on entering Taiwan without a visa (‘visa-exempt entry’) from the Taiwan Bureau of Consular Affairs. This applies if you travel:

• as a tourist
• to visit family or friends
• to attend business meetings, cultural or sports events

If you plan to stay in Taiwan for longer than 180 days, you must have a visa before you arrive. If you stay beyond the time given on your visa, you will get a fine and risk being deported from Taiwan.

There are specific rules for naturalised British citizens born in the People’s Republic of China and holders of British National (Overseas) passports wishing to enter under the visa waiver scheme.

You should contact the Taiwan Bureau of Consular Affairs or Taiwan National Immigration Agency for further information.

Applying for a visa

If you are in the UK and need a visa, apply at your nearest Taipei Representative Office . If you are in Taiwan, apply through the Taiwan National Immigration Agency .

Alien Resident Certificate and Alien Permanent Resident Certificate holders

If you already hold a resident certificate, you do not need a visa to enter Taiwan.

If you hold a Youth Mobility Scheme visa for Taiwan , you can apply to switch to a working visa or a visa to study a degree course at undergraduate level or higher.

Submit your application to the  Bureau of Consular Affairs  for consideration. You can then apply for an Alien Resident Certificate (ARC) at your local  National Immigration Agency (NIA) Service Center  once your application has been approved. Contact the  Bureau of Consular Affairs  or  National Immigration Agency  for further information.

Vaccination requirements

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Taiwan guide .   

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods you can take into or out of Taiwan . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. Contact the Customs Administration for further information.

Animal products

Do not bring animal products into Taiwan without authorisation. If you are caught with any animal products, you may face a heavy fine. Customs officials have increased inspections due to concerns about African Swine Fever Virus in pork products, particularly from the People’s Republic of China.

Bringing money into Taiwan

Declare cash or travellers cheques if the value is higher than 100,000 New Taiwan Dollar (NTD) or 10,000 US dollars. You will get a certified declaration to show you brought it in with you. If you do not, your money could be seized when you leave. Contact the Customs Administration for further information.

International bank transfers can be slow. Most of the ATMs in 7-11 stores accept international cards. Other ATMs may accept them, but not all do.

American Express, Citibank and Thomas Cook branches accept their own-brand travellers cheques. You may need your receipt as well as your passport when you cash them.

There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on staying safe abroad and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad .

Terrorism in Taiwan

Although there’s no recent history of terrorism in Taiwan, attacks cannot be ruled out.

Advance fee frauds

Fraudsters often send letters, faxes and emails to individuals and companies in the UK and elsewhere. They offer large sums of money if the recipient sends various ‘advance fees’ to Taiwanese bank accounts. The fraudsters are not specifically targeting recipients. They get contact details from telephone or commercial directories.

The National Crime Agency ( NCA ) investigates advance fee frauds in the UK. Do not reply to this type of communication. The NCA website has more information.

Laws and cultural differences

Illegal drugs and penalties.

Avoid any involvement with illegal drugs, including cannabis, while in Taiwan. Drug laws are stricter than in the UK. Legal definitions of supply or trafficking may be different from in the UK, including the quantities of drugs involved. If you’re found guilty of smuggling, trafficking, possession or use of illegal narcotics, you can expect to get a severe prison sentence or, in some cases, the death penalty.

LGBT+ travellers

Taiwan has some of Asia’s most progressive policies on LGBT+ rights and discrimination on the grounds of gender and gender identity is illegal. Taiwan’s Pride parade, held annually in October, is the largest regular LGBT+ event in Asia, attracting high numbers of participants from the region and internationally.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers .

Transport risks

Road travel.

If you are planning to drive in Taiwan, see information on driving abroad .

You need a 1949  international driving permit ( IDP )  as well as a UK driving licence to drive in Taiwan. You cannot buy an IDP outside the UK, so get one before you travel.

Once in Taiwan, you will need to take your passport, IDP and a passport photograph to a local Motor Vehicles Office to get your IDP validated. Your validated IDP will last up to 12 months.

If you stay longer, you will need to get a new IDP and get it validated. Or you can exchange your UK driving licence for a Taiwan driving licence at a Motor Vehicles Office. The British Office in Taipei cannot provide support on individual applications.

If you do not want to exchange your UK driving licence, you can take a local driving test to get a Taiwan driving licence.

Driving standards and road rules

Roads and vehicles are well-maintained, but scooters and motorcycles often weave in and out of traffic. Be alert when crossing roads as vehicles might not stop at pedestrian crossings.

The alcohol limit for drivers in Taiwan is about a quarter of that in England. If you drive while over the limit, you may get a heavy fine and possible imprisonment. If you are a passenger, you may also be fined.

Extreme weather and natural disasters 

If there is a typhoon or an earthquake, check the Taiwanese authorities’ websites for public announcements and details of which roads, schools and office buildings have been closed:

• Directorate-General of Personnel Administration
• Directorate General of Highways

Typhoon Gaemi is currently expected to cause hazardous weather conditions in Taiwan between Tuesday 23 July and Thursday 25 July. Its current trajectory will see it affecting areas north of Chiayi and Taitung. Greater Taipei, Taoyuan and Yilan are likely to see high winds and heavy rain.

The typhoon season in Taiwan normally runs from May to November. There’s a risk of road blockages and landslides after typhoons, especially in central and southern Taiwan.

Listen to typhoon alerts on the ICRT, BCC and PRS radio stations, and monitor the websites of the  Central Weather Administration  and the  Japan Meteorological Agency .

See our  tropical cyclones page  for advice about how to prepare effectively and what to do if you’re likely to be affected by a hurricane or typhoon (tropical cyclone).

Earthquakes

Taiwan lies in a seismically active zone and tremors are recorded throughout the year. The US Federal Emergency Management Agency has guidance about what to do before, during and after an earthquake .

Taipei City Government have created a online digital booklet with useful information on how to keep safe during an earthquake, typhoon and other types of natural and man-made disasters.

Before you travel check that:

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Emergency medical number

Call 119 and ask for an ambulance.

Unlike in the UK, an ambulance crew will not usually include a paramedic.

Contact your insurance company promptly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.

Vaccinations and health risks

At least 8 weeks before your trip check:

• the latest information on vaccinations and health risks in TravelHealthPro’s Taiwan guide
• where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page

There has been a significant increase in cases of  dengue fever in the south of Taiwan (including the cities of Kaohsiung and Tainan). Take  precautions to avoid mosquito bites . See key updates from the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control .

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.

Read best practice when travelling with medicines on TravelHealthPro .

The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad .

If you’re bringing any prescribed medicine into Taiwan, bring the prescription issued by your doctor, hospital or clinic that shows the medicine is for your personal use. The amount of medication you bring must be consistent with the amount stated on the prescription. You cannot bring cannabis oil or cannabis-derived medication into Taiwan, even if it’s legally prescribed elsewhere.

For further information on the legal status of a specific medicine, contact the  Taipei Representative Office in London .

Healthcare facilities in Taiwan

Taiwan’s health and dental facilities offer a range of routine, emergency and outpatient services. Some have English-speaking staff. Hospitals operate on a ’pay as you use’ basis. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment in Taiwan including possible repatriation.

FCDO has a list of English-speaking doctors in Taiwan .

There is also guidance on healthcare if you’re living in Taiwan .

COVID-19 healthcare

Taiwan Centers for Disease Control says that if you test positive for COVID-19 and have mild symptoms you do not need to report your case or self-isolate. You should rest at home and wear a mask when outside. Seek medical care if you experience severe symptoms. You can contact the Taiwan Centers for Disease Control helpline on 1922.

Travel and mental health

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health . There is also mental health guidance on TravelHealthPro .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office ( FCDO ) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.

Emergency services in Taiwan

Ambulance and fire: 119

Police: 110

Coastguard: 113

Domestic abuse and sexual assault hotline: 113

Any further assistance: 0800 024 111 (‘Information for Foreigners in Taiwan’ helpline)

Contact your travel provider and insurer

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.

Refunds and changes to travel

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans , including:

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a provider
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claim

Support from FCDO

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:

• finding English-speaking  lawyers ,  funeral directors  and  translators and interpreters  in Taiwan.
• dealing with a  death in Taiwan
• being  arrested or imprisoned in Taiwan
• getting help if you’re a  victim of crime
• what to do if you’re  in hospital
• if you’re affected by a crisis , such as a terrorist attack

Contacting FCDO

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

You can also contact FCDO online .

Help abroad in an emergency

The UK does not have diplomatic relations with Taiwan. The British Assistance and Services Section of the British Office in Taipei can provide certain limited consular assistance. In cases of genuine emergency, the British Office may be able to issue you with an emergency travel document.

FCDO in London

You can call FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad.

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours)

Find out about call charges

Risk information for British companies

The  Overseas Business Risk service  offers information and advice for British companies operating overseas on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.

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Taiwan Travel Tips: 24 Essential Things To Know Before You Go

30 May 2020.

Exceptionally beautiful, well organised and unfailingly friendly, Taiwan is a wonderfully easy place to travel.

With spectacular hiking trails and fairytale forests, tastebud-tingling street eats and world-class tea, a rich culture and fascinating history, mindboggling mountains and remote natural hot springs, along with the warmest welcome I’ve ever encountered, my five weeks in Taiwan made for one of my favourite trips of 2019. 

From traveller safety and sticking to your budget to local food and avoiding the crowds, these are my top Taiwan travel tips to help you fall in love with this place just as much as I did. 

* This post includes affiliate links and any purchases made through these links will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. *

1  |  Download These Useful Apps For Your Trip

From breaking through the language barrier and deciphering streetside menus to figuring out the train network and finding the right hiking trails, these apps will make travelling in Taiwan a whole lot easier and can all be used offline.

Google Translate   |   Normally I just muddle way through any language difficulties with a few key phrases, an awkward smile and plenty of charades, but given many of us won’t be able to read the alphabet here, Google Translate is an absolute lifesaver. Make sure you download the Chinese dictionary before arriving and you’ll be able to use the instant translate option by hovering your phone over any sign or menu. It’s not always entirely accurate, but it’s better than nothing.

Google Maps Offline  |   You can download a map of the entire island of Taiwan offline which is incredibly useful for navigation and includes all train stations, bus stops, MRT routes, restaurants and attractions. Litter your map with stars to keep track of your top destinations.  

Maps.Me  |  While Google Maps is great for cities, Maps.Me is perfect for any hiking adventures. The island is a veritable maze of tiny tracks and many of them are captured on this app. It also often has the Chinese place names written in English characters which can be very useful. 

2  |  You probably won’t need a visa to visit Taiwan

Unlike China which has a complicated visa application process, many nationalities are able to visit Taiwan visa free.

Citizens of Australia, Canada, the USA, the EU and the UK, among others, are able to visit for up to 90 days without a visa, while a number of other nations are eligible to visit visa-free for shorter periods of 14 to 30 days or apply for an e-visa.

Nationals from most countries in South America, Africa and Southern Asia will require a visa. See here for further information.

3  |  Taiwan Is Not Technically A Country

Officially, Taiwan is called the Republic of China and exists as a province of the People’s Republic of China (aka China), but it has many of the hallmarks of an independent nation, including a democratically elected President, military forces and a constitution.

In short, it’s a little complicated.

On the international stage, Taiwan is not widely recognised, in large part because this would severely disrupt any political relationship with China. Taiwan has been barred from having a seat at the UN and for major international events where China is also participating, it is either refused as an independent participant or allowed to participate under the name of ‘Chinese Taipei’, such as in the Olympic Games.

Today, the discussion around Taiwanese independence or unification is a polarising one with tensions escalating in recent months, though surveys show the majority of locals believe leaving things as they are is the best way forward. 

That said, to simplify things I have referred to Taiwan as a country throughout these guides.

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4  |  outside of the cities, english is not widely spoken.

The language barrier was definitely something I was concerned about before arriving in Taiwan, especially as I wouldn’t be able to read the language either.

But I really needn’t have worried.

In general, English is not widely spoken, but virtually everyone I met was so wonderfully warm and welcoming that they would go out of their way to help you and if all else failed it was Google Translate to the rescue.

That said, at the very least learning a few basic phrases like ‘Nihao’ or ‘She She’ is always worthwhile .

5  |  You will feel welcomed

‘Welcome to Taiwan!’

This was a phrase I was greeted with countless times during my trip, often accompanied by open arms, a toothy grin, a handshake and the occasional selfie. 

As a blonde-haired, blue-eyed traveller, I never had any hope of blending in in these parts, but I certainly never expected to be welcomed with such genuine warmth at every step of the way.

There was that couple who walked me to the correct bus stop in Taipei when they saw I was visibly lost, the fellow hiker that spent hours chatting about her favourite trails to ensure I got to experience the best of the mountains, the passengers who jumped up without question to help me retrieve my heavy bags off the train and the many, many people who would stop me during the day just to say hello and wish me a pleasant trip. 

Perhaps sweetest of all though was on one of the rare occasions when I had hitched a ride through the mountains with a fellow traveller instead oh waiting several hours for the bus. The couple who had kindly taken us had reached their final destination at a busy viewpoint, but instead of just dropping us by the roadside to continue on our way, they ran around the car park asking every single person if they were heading in our direction. When that failed they stood on the roadside and flagged down each passing car until they found one that would take us.

Of all the things I loved about Taiwan, and there were many, the unwavering kindness in ways both big and small was what left me truly humbled and made the place an absolute joy to explore. This kind of hospitality is not something I’ll be forgetting in a hurry.

6  |  It’s a reasonably affordable destination

Taiwan falls somewhere between expensive Japan and wallet-friendly South East Asia. 

For a five-week trip that mostly involved street food and hostels, along with the odd luxury like a couple of days of diving, a foot massage and a handful of hotel stays thrown in for good measure, my daily budget came out to €32.  

Prices for a hostel dorm bed generally start at around €10 but can be considerably higher in more remote areas like Green Island or Hehuanshan . Popular destinations like Alishan will also command higher rates, especially over weekends and during cherry blossom season. For private rooms, family-run homestays or small guesthouses usually present the best value rather than hotels.  

Street food and local dishes are slightly more expensive than elsewhere in Asia, but munching your way around a night market is unlikely to break the bank (and should not be missed!). 

Local long-distance transport is very reasonably priced and will get you virtually anywhere in the country, while the west coast’s High Speed Rail is a fast and efficient option for anyone not on a tight travel budget. 

GET PLANNING:  HOW TO PLAN THE PERFECT DAY TRIP TO TAROKO NATIONAL PARK

7  |  avoid popular spots on weekends and holidays.

Locals and weekenders absolutely love getting out of the city to explore the countryside and with such astounding natural beauty at every turn, why wouldn’t you.

This does however mean that some of Taiwan’s most beloved spots can become exceptionally crowded on weekends and holidays which can detract somewhat what from their beauty so are best avoided during these periods if you can manage. 

Places that are easily accessible from Taipei, such as Taroko Gorge , Yangmingshan National Park , Jiufen and Shifen, generally receive the most visitors, but destinations that lie further afield and make for an excellent overnight trip ( Sun Moon Lake and Alishan , for example) can also become very busy with visitors. 

Of course, planning your trip around the day of the week isn’t always possible, but if you can, I’d suggest visiting during the week. If weekends are your only option, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and make an early start when you arrive.

8  |  There are many ways to spell things in English

Translating complex Chinese characters phonetically into English words isn’t always straightforward and often leads to places having several different spellings.

The ‘Zh’ sound is one of the most confusing as it is widely used and can also be written using variations of ‘Sh’, ‘Ch’ or ‘J’ characters.

Just know that if it looks vaguely correct and seems to be in the right location, there’s a good chance it’s the same place.

Well, except for Taichung and Taitung, they’re completely different.

9  |  It’s a perfect destination for solo female travel

Travelling to a new destination as a solo female never fails to bring with it a host of questions.

Is it normal for women to be out alone? How conservatively do I need to dress? Is it safe to wander around at night?

Thankfully, I have never felt quite so safe in a place as I did in Taiwan. Everyone I encountered was nothing short of welcoming, extremely kind and respectful. No gawking stares. No catcalling. No creepy whispers as you walk by.

Though I always take the usual precautions when I travel, here I felt comfortable enough to loosen the reigns a little which was wonderfully refreshing and meant I could confidently explore cities alone at night, go hiking solo and even went as far as to hitchhike in the mountains rather than wait for a bus which is something I never normally do.

Taiwan is the highest-ranking nation in Asia and among the top in the world overall when it comes to gender equality and it really shows.

10  |  You’ll Always Find A Bargain Online

For some of Taiwan’s most popular and iconic experiences, you’ll find some excellent deals online on anything from transport to dining out.

If it’s something you’re planning to do anyway, why wait needlessly in a queue or pay more than you need to!

Popular choices include early-bird discounts for the High Speed Rail , skip-the-line access to the Taipei 101 Observatory , pre-ordered meals at the incredibly popular Din Tai Fung , one of Taipei’s best restaurants, or discounted boba milk tea from the always busy Xing Fu Tang . 

For more great deals on transport, tours, foodie adventures and day trips, check here . 

READ NEXT:  THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ALISHAN | TAIWAN’S MAGICAL ANCIENT FOREST

11  |  it’s an incredible destination for hiking, just don’t forget your permit.

For avid hikers and lovers of the outdoors, Taiwan is an absolute dream destination.

From dramatic emerald hills that cascade toward the windswept sea, to dense bamboo forests that feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook, to high alpine peaks that reward you with unparalleled vistas, there’s really no better way to experience Taiwan than with a pair of dusty boots and the trail at your feet.

You’ll find a vast network of hiking trails that crisscross the island and make it incredibly easy to get off the beaten path, and while many are well-marked and free to access, there are a handful of more challenging tracks or those where numbers are restricted that do require you to have a permit.

Some are easy to secure just a few weeks in advance, whereas others involve a slightly complicated application process and need to be applied for months in advance. There are also occasionally two different permits required for a hike – a National Park Entry Permit and Mountain Entry Permit (sometimes called a Police Permit).

If you’re a keen hiker hoping to head into the mountains, I’d highly, highly recommend locking your plans in early so that you can acquire the appropriate paperwork on time and avoid being disappointed.

Popular hiking trails that will require a permit are the Zhuilu Old Trail in Taroko Gorge , Yushan, Taiwan’s highest peak, and Shei Pa National Park which is famous for its high ridge trail.

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Hehuanshan: A Comprehensive Guide To Taiwan’s Alpine Paradise (That Doesn’t Require A Permit!)

12  |  get an easycard as soon as you arrive.

Do yourself a favour and pick up an EasyCard as soon as you arrive in Taiwan.

They’re available at the airport and convenience stores like 7-11 and Family Mart and can be used on public transport throughout the country, often giving a reduced fare.

Most importantly, it will also save you from having to rummage around for the correct change every time you need to jump on the metro or bus.

The card itself is $100 (€3) and you can top up your balance as needed. Then, simply tap on and off for every trip.

If you’re someone who likes to plan ahead, you also can order your EasyCard in advance for collection at the airport here . When I bought mine in Taipei, it was cash only so buying it in advance means you can collect your card directly from the counter rather than searching for an ATM in your post-flight sleep-deprived state.

13  |  Public Transport Is Excellent

Public transport in Taiwan is efficient and widespread making travelling across the country a breeze. 

In Taipei, the metro or MRT is frequent, cheap and easy to use, while the vast web of local trains and buses make a number of day trip destinations in northern Taiwan easily accessible. Within other major cities, buses will be your bread and butter of getting around.

For travel further afield, local trains ( TRA ) are cheaper, slower and more frequent than the high-speed trains and cover a much wider network in Taiwan, travelling up and down both sides of the country and often rewarding you with incredible scenery along the way, particularly on the mountainous east coast. Check fares and timetables here .

Travelling down the west coast only, the Taiwan High Speed Rail ( THSR ) runs between Taipei and Kaohsiung’s Zuoying Station in just 2 hours. Though they’re quite a bit more expensive than the slower local trains, they’re incredibly efficient for anyone short on time and offer generous discounts for multi-day tickets and early bird purchases (sometimes up to 35%). Check the timetable here or get a discount for advance bookings here .

Taiwan’s mountainous heart is the only place that is somewhat challenging to reach. For popular destinations, there are generally dedicated ‘tourist shuttles’ or long-distance buses though services are often infrequent and reliable timetables hard to find. Your guesthouse should be able to point you in the right direction.

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14  |  take care when renting a scooter.

Travelling by scooter is a way of life for locals and a rite of passage for travellers in virtually all of Asia. But while many countries may turn a blind eye to unlicensed and inexperienced foreigners, Taiwan generally takes a stricter stance.

Officially, you are required to have either a motorbike license or an International Drivers License that covers motorbikes. A regular driver’s license isn’t good enough.

That said, there are exceptions and not every operator is stringent in following regulations, but after a series of tragic accidents involving tourists over the years, enforcing of the rules is becoming more common.

The good news is that you’ll virtually always find electric scooters available for rent alongside the usual petrol variety, and while these tend to be slightly more expensive and slower, they can be hired without an official license as well as being better for the environment.

15  |  Prices increase during weekends and flower season

Another darn good reason to avoid travel on the weekends is that as Friday and Saturday roll around, it’s not uncommon for accommodation prices to double, capitalising on the many of weekend tourists heading out to explore more of this beautiful island.

Destinations that become wrapped up in cherry blossom fever can also command far higher prices than usual during peak times.

If you’re on a tight budget, plan ahead and try to avoid key tourist areas during these times, or find accommodation that won’t hit you with a price hike.

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16  |  there’s a great hostel scene.

As a budget traveller, you’ll have no issue finding affordable, high-quality hostels in every major city in Taiwan.

From modest and homely hideaways to trendy well-designed spaces, most hostels have embraced the capsule-style of bed with a light, power socket and shelf, and a roll down blind or curtain to offer an extra level of privacy.

Many hostels are also surprisingly roomy, with some even providing double dorm beds as the norm, making it far too easy to escape into your own little bubble at the end of a busy day, separate from the noisy packers and late-night light-turner-on-erers.

Search for your Taiwan accommodation here.

17  |  Don’t Miss The Night Markets

Tightly packed bodies jostle between food stalls, smoke billows into narrow laneways, large woks simmer away with century-old recipes and intoxicating aromas fill the air.

You can’t possibly visit Taiwan and not spend at least an evening or two absorbed in the clamour of its night markets. Aside from being a feast for the senses, they’re one of the best places to sample Taiwan’s street food and local delicacies. 

Taiwanese cuisine is very much a melting pot derived from various ethnicities with Japanese and Chinese flavours being prominent, alongside the influence of indigenous and Hakka communities. These were some of my favourite dishes.  

Beef Noodle Soup   |    Taiwan’s national dish, this hearty concoction of braised beef, noodles and a flavour-packed spiced broth is one not to miss.  

Dumplings   |   Steam ’em, fry ’em, stick ’em in a soup, there are a hundred different ways to enjoy the humble dumpling, all of them delicious and sure to put you into a blissful food coma many times during your trip. The standard filling contains pork, but there are numerous restaurants that offer veggie options as well.   

Scallion Pancakes   |    This was the very first thing I ate in Taiwan and I’m still craving one all these months later! A flaky, crispy roti-style flatbread woven with finely chopped green onions, this simple street snack can be found across Taiwan and is so damn good. You can choose your own fillings like cheese, smoked chicken or peppered beef, but my go-to was fried egg, Thai basil and spicy sauce. Yum!

Peanut Ice Cream Roll   |   A wafer-thin crepe filled with a generous sprinkle of shaved peanut brittle, vibrant fruity ice cream and garnish of fresh coriander (cilantro). The lot is bundled into a small burrito and is a textural sensation. Some stalls try to skip over the coriander bit, but in my humble opinion, this is where the real genius lies.        

Stinky Tofu   |    Ok, so this wasn’t exactly one of my favourites, but you kinda can’t leave Taiwan without giving it a go. While it’s an acquired taste and the stench can be… overwhelming – it’s certainly a dish that you’ll smell long before you see – it’s also one of Taiwan’s most beloved delicacies. The tofu is prepared in a brine of fermented milk, vegetables, meat and aromatics where it may sit for months before being served.

Taiwanese Hamburgers  |    A fluffy steamed bun stuffed with sticky pork belly and some greenery, these tasty handfuls will leaving you wanting just another bite. Though this is the typical version, many shops also offer veggie options with either mushroom, tofu or egg as the main filling.      

There are dozens of night markets scattered around Taiwan, so be sure to arrive with an empty belly, wander slowly and munch your way through all the things! 

18  |  Bring a set of reusable cutlery

Between the chaotic night markets, ancient hole-in-the-wall eateries and fantastic sit-down restaurants, dining out in Taiwan is an experience in itself.

Unfortunately, many places prioritise convenience over all else and will often only provide you with disposable single-use plastic cutlery, even if you’re eating in.

Instead of churning your way through what will literally be hundreds of unnecessary and completely avoidable pieces of plastic by the end of your trip, pack a set of reusable utensils in your day bag ready to be used at any occasion.

I carryied around a pair of chopsticks, a metal fork and a tablespoon in my handbag and used them on a daily basis. If you’re a lover of takeaway drinks, adding a thick reusable straw and/or a collapsible cup is also a good idea.

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19  |  boba tea is life.

I had my first ever boba milk tea on my second day in Taipei and it was love at first sip.

So, naturally, I dove straight into making up for lost time. 

Though now popular across the world, this delectably creamy and deliciously refreshing drink originated in Taiwan and you can’t walk a block here without passing several tea shops. Some specialise in green tea and fruit infusions, some focus on flavoured tapioca pearls and others strictly serve up the milky varieties. 

They’re all well-loved, they’re all found everywhere and the only thing for it is to try them all for yourself. 

My favourite was the signature brown sugar boba milk tea from perennially popular Xing Fu Tang. The mix of luxuriously creamy tea and not-too-sweet sticky caramel tapioca balls had me craving one every single day.

20  |  It’s not the best for vegetarians, but you can make it work

Full disclosure, I’m not a vegetarian, but I do try to limit my meat consumption to just a couple of times a week. In Taiwan, however, that wasn’t always easy with night markets being particularly challenging.

All major cities have dedicated vegetarian restaurants, but in small towns and mountains villages you may need to plan ahead.

In case your body is crying out for a vitamin kick and a healthy dose of fresh produce which the cuisine decidedly lacks, be sure to stock up with everything you’ll need for hiking and road snacks in the city as supplies in the countryside are often limited.

21  |  You’ll probably end up eating at a convenience store (and that’s totally fine!)

With so many delicious street eats to choose from, it may sound a little nutty to dine in a 7-11, but chances are it will happen at least once during your trip.

I had read a lot about the ubiquitous convenience stores before arriving in Taiwan and had quietly scoffed thinking I would never actually eat there while I had one of the world’s best foodie destinations on my doorstep.

Turns out, these shops are actually pretty bloody, well, convenient, and I, like many, many other travellers ended up eating here on more than one occasion.

Of course, sampling local delicacies from unassuming hole-in-the-wall eateries is an experience you absolutely shouldn’t miss in Taiwan, but when you’re running late for the train, are craving a familiar dish (hello green curry!), or just need a cheap eat in an expensive tourist town, these stores can be a lifesaver.

They’re always an affordable and reliable choice and I also heard from several vegetarian travellers that in smaller towns where veggie restaurants were limited, these were often the best option.

22  |  Typhoon Season is June to October

Typhoons generally hit Taiwan between June and October when a deluge of rain is dumped across the country accompanied by strong winds.

Surprisingly, this is peak tourist season and one of the most popular times for travel across the region, but expect to be met by gloomy skies, frequent rainy days and hot, humid conditions.

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23  |  when to go petal peeping.

Cherry blossom fever has become a global phenomenon in recent years and Taiwan is no exception. But along with these delicate white florals, the country also plays host to a number of other blooms that attract hoards of visitors to witness the landscapes erupting in a riot of colour.

With flower festivals in full swing, these tend to be the busiest time of year for certain regions so be sure to plan accordingly.

Cherry Blossoms  |   Springtime means cherry blossoms! In Yangmingshan National Park , blooms can arrive as early as February usually peaking by early March, while the higher altitude of Alishan means a later season between March and April. Other popular spots for cherry blossoms include Wuling Farm in the heart of the mountains and around Tianyuan Temple in New Taipei.

Rhododendrons  |  Next up on the flower enthusiast calendar is the rhododendron season where thousands of tiny florals unfurl across Taiwan’s landscapes and high mountains peaks. Taroko National Park and Hehuanshan are popular places to see the blooms with the peak viewing period lasting from April to June.

Daylilies  |   Arriving in late summer, golden daylilies blanket the lush plateau of Liushishishan or Sixty Stone Mountain that rises from the vast checkered plains of the East Rift Valley . Visit between August and September for the best of the blooms.

24  |  The Best Time To Visit Taiwan

Between the monsoonal rains, cherry blossom fever and oppressive summer mugginess, it can be hard to determine when the best time to visit Taiwan actually is.

While summer is when tourism booms across the country, the searing heat, crowds and high chance of storms mean this isn’t an ideal time to plan your trip.

Anytime between late autumn and spring are far more pleasant when you’ll be welcomed with comfortable temperatures, fewer visitors and low season prices for accommodation and tours. The only downside is that some tour operators or transport routes to popular summer destinations may not be running at full capacity.

Avid hikers should prepare for chilly conditions in the mountains outside of summer, while flower enthusiasts should consider visiting in spring when much of Taiwan bursts into colour.

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The UK ETA for Taiwanese Citizens: A Complete Guide

Taiwanese citizens traveling to the United Kingdom (UK) will be required to obtain a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in 2024.

ETA is a new digital travel permit that is mandatory for citizens of countries that can visit England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland without a visa for short trips. This includes citizens of Taiwan.

It will simplify travel to the UK for visiting family and friends of approximately 51,000 Taiwanese residing in the UK. The ETA also benefits about 26,000 Taiwanese citizens who visit the UK yearly for leisure, business, or study.

This guide offers all the information on the UK ETA for Taiwanese citizens, including eligibility, requirements, the application process, and travel implications.

Why is the UK ETA being introduced for Taiwanese citizens?

The UK ETA aims to improve the security of the UK border and allow the government more control and oversight over individuals entering the country.

The system seeks to help prevent illegal immigration, thwart organized crime syndicates, and identify potential threats to national security before they even arrive on UK soil.

The ETA is also designed to improve border control and streamline the immigration process for pre-verified, low-risk travelers.

Benefits of the UK ETA for Taiwanese Citizens

The ETA is an electronic document that grants permission to pre-screened non-visa nationals to travel to the UK. It is not a visa, so applicants can skip the complex and lengthy acquisition process.

For Taiwanese citizens, the UK ETA presents benefits that include the following:

Quick and easy process

Applying for a UK ETA is entirely online and paperless. Taiwanese applicants can complete the application in less than 20 minutes. They also do not need to visit consulates or visa offices for an in-person interview or to submit documents.

It generally takes three days to process an ETA application. Travelers will receive the decision, whether approved or rejected, via the email address they provided.

If granted, the ETA will be linked to the passport they used to apply, so there is no need to print it out.

Affordable fee

A UK ETA application costs £10 each. The price is comparable to similar digital travel permits imposed by other countries.

For instance, the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) of the United States (US) costs US$21 (£17).

Australia’s electronic travel authorization (ETA) costs AU$20 (£10), while Canada’s electronic travel authorization (eTA) costs CA$7 (£4).

Once operational, the European Union’s upcoming European Travel Information Authorization System (ETIAS) will cost €7 (£6).

Long validity period

Most digital travel permits are valid for a year to five years or when the passport it is linked to expires.

The UK ETA will be valid for multiple short visits over two years. Travelers only need to apply for an ETA every two years or when their passport expires, whichever comes sooner, not every time they visit the UK.

How the UK ETA system will affect Taiwanese travelers

Currently, Taiwanese citizens do not need an ETA to travel to the UK.

However, once the system opens for Taiwanese citizens in 2024, they must apply and obtain an approved UK ETA before traveling to the UK.

It is required regardless of the mode of transport used, whether arriving on a flight, on a ship (e.g., as part of a cruise), or over land, such as through the rail tunnel connecting Britain and France.

A UK ETA is valid for the following travel purposes:

• Short-term stay for less than six months (180 days) for tourism, short-course study, visiting friends and family, and permitted business activities and medical treatments.
• Short-term stay for up to three months (90 days) on the Creative Worker visa concession
• Transiting through the UK (i.e., changing planes), whether or not passing through UK border control

ETA Eligibility Guidelines for Taiwanese Citizens

To be eligible for an ETA, Taiwanese citizens must meet the following conditions:

• Be a national of a country that has a visa-waiver status with the UK. Taiwan is included in the list of countries whose citizens need an ETA to travel to the UK.
• Have a biometric passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date from the UK.
• No intent to stay, work, or study in the UK for longer than six months.
• No criminal record and past immigration breaches in the UK or elsewhere.

All travelers, including children and babies , will need an ETA before traveling to the UK. Parents and guardians can apply for an ETA on their behalf.

Individuals with a history of immigration breaches, criminal convictions, or incarcerations of more than 12 months in the UK or elsewhere may be denied an ETA. These travelers should consider getting a UK visa instead.

Taiwanese citizens planning to stay in the UK for more than six months or to work will still need an appropriate UK visa. The new ETA system does not affect these travelers. The UK visa application and processing will also remain unchanged.

UK ETA Application Requirements for Taiwanese Citizens

Taiwanese citizens eligible for a UK ETA must prepare the following application requirements:

• A valid biometric passport issued by Taiwan, whose citizens do not need a visa to travel to the UK for short trips.
• A recent digital passport photo
• A valid email address
• A working electronic payment method, such as credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay

How to Apply for a UK ETA

Taiwanese citizens can apply for a UK ETA through the official UK government website or app.

The UK ETA application process is entirely online and paperless, so visiting consulates or visa offices is unnecessary. It only takes a few minutes to complete once all the necessary documents and information are ready.

Below is a step-by-step guide on how Taiwanese citizens can apply for an ETA.

1. Upload or take a photo of the passport you will use to travel to the UK.

Ensure you include the picture and the two lines of numbers and letters at the bottom.

2. Upload a recent passport photo or take a picture using your device’s camera.

Images should be saved as a jpeg file or with the file extension .jpg. Children aged nine and under will not need to upload a passport photo.

3. Fill in all the required information.

These include personal information (i.e., name, birth date), passport details, employment details, home address, and contact information.

4. Answer questions on security and eligibility. 

Like any other UK visitor, Taiwanese ETA applicants must truthfully disclose criminal records, past immigration offenses, and any associations with or membership in any unlawful or illegal groups or organizations.

5. Pay for the UK ETA application online.

A UK ETA application costs £10 each. To submit the application, you must pay the fee online using a credit or debit card, Apple Pay, or Google Pay.

After completing the UK ETA online application, travelers will receive a confirmation through the email they provided.

Tips on for Applying for a UK ETA

Applying for an ETA is simple, but there is still room for errors. To avoid common mistakes, follow these guidelines for a swift and efficient UK ETA online application.

• Provide or capture clear, high-quality photos of your passport and yourself. Ensure the images comply with passport photo specifications and are in full color without filters or effects.
• Make sure you provide the correct data and are as accurate as possible. Giving false or incorrect information and even withholding information could result in delays or your application being refused.
• Check beforehand if your online payment method works and if you have enough funds to pay for the application online.
• Be sure to review and double-check the data you provided in your ETA application before you submit.

After submitting the UK ETA application, travelers can no longer amend or withdraw it. Should Taiwanese travelers need to correct simple mistakes in their ETA application, they can quickly do this by re-submitting the application and paying the fee again.

Processing and Receiving the ETA for Taiwanese Nationals

Upon receipt of a UK ETA online application, the system will cross-verify the details submitted against several security databases in the UK and worldwide to check if the applicant is qualified for an ETA.

It typically takes three days (72 hours) for applicants to receive a decision on their ETA application via the email address provided.

Many travelers receive a decision within hours of submitting their application. Still, some applications may take more than three days to receive a decision.

Taiwanese citizens are recommended to apply for a UK ETA before booking their travel to the UK to prevent delays or other issues.

If an ETA application is denied, the applicant can choose to complete a new ETA application form and pay the fee again. However, this is only recommended if they can establish the reason for the initial rejection and address it before doing so.

Being denied an ETA does not mean the applicant is banned from traveling to the UK. The alternative to a UK ETA is an appropriate UK visa: a Standard Visitor visa, Temporary Work visa, or Transit visa.

However, getting a visa is a more complicated and longer procedure, so adjust travel plans accordingly.

Traveling with a UK ETA

A UK ETA is digitally linked to an individual’s passport. It is valid for two years, allowing multiple short visits lasting up to six months per visit.

Taiwanese travelers must apply for a new ETA after two years or when their passport expires, whichever comes first, to continue being allowed to travel to the UK.

Departure to the UK

Since it is an electronic document, Taiwanese travelers don’t need to bring a physical copy of their ETA. 

Still, they can print it and carry the paper copy with them or be prepared to show the ETA decision email in their inbox in case of unprecedented circumstances.

For travelers with multiple passports, make sure to travel to the UK with the passport used in the application.

Before boarding a plane, ship, or train, carriers will check if travelers have the appropriate permission-to-travel document by scanning their passports. 

Carriers will only allow boarding to Taiwanese travelers who can present a valid UK ETA or visa.

Those still waiting on the decision on their ETA applications will also not be permitted to board.

Arriving in the UK

An ETA does not guarantee entry into the UK. Upon arrival, Taiwanese citizens with an approved UK ETA must still submit their identity documents to the UK Border Force or go through an electronic passport gate (eGate), if available.

Be prepared to provide proof of onward travel upon request. This typically means presenting a ticket to leave the UK within six months of arrival.

If asked, Taiwanese travelers must also show evidence that they have enough funds to support themselves during their entire stay in the UK and their journey home.

Travelers with a valid ETA may still be refused entry into the UK if they fail a border check or meet other entry conditions.

Once past border security, Taiwanese citizens with an approved ETA can freely travel between the UK’s four constituent countries: England, Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

Taiwanese visitors can use all modes of transportation within the UK, such as trains, ferries, and local flights. Before boarding a ferry or an internal flight within the UK, they only need to present an ID, usually a passport or driving license.

Important Note: A UK ETA is not valid in Ireland or other European countries.

A UK ETA does not allow entry to the Republic of Ireland and other European countries. The UK is not a member of the European Union or the Schengen Common Travel Zone.

Taiwanese citizens visiting Ireland or other European countries must inquire about the country’s entry requirements before booking their travel.

Travelers can check the UK ETA FAQ page for more information.

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The Perfect 2 Week Taiwan Itinerary (2024 Guide)

• Last Updated: August 3, 2024

Check out this detailed and customizable 2 week Taiwan itinerary that includes the highlights of this incredible island!

Taiwan, an island nation in East Asia, is a captivating blend of rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural landscapes, and vibrant modernity.

From its bustling cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung to its serene countryside dotted with lush mountains, hot springs, and picturesque coastlines, Taiwan offers so many cool experiences for travelers.

This 2 week Taiwan itinerary takes you around the island so you can get a comprehensive introduction to the nation. You’ll have time in cities, small towns, and national parks as you explore Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Hengchun, Hualien, and more.

Check out our recommendations for how to spend 2 weeks in Taiwan!

Table of Contents

Train for traveling between cities

Bus, metro, or taxi for traveling within cities, guided tours, free walking tours, national palace museum, taipei fine arts museum, chiang kai-shek memorial hall, longshan temple, parks and gardens, night markets, hike elephant mountain, yangmingshan national park, beitou hot springs, shifen waterfall and shifen old street, yehliu geopark, private day tour, budget: old door hostel and bar, mid-range: evergreen laurel hotel, luxury: san want residences, rainbow village, national taiwan museum of fine arts, zhongshe flower market, feng chia night market, day trip to sun moon lake, budget: allegro hostel, mid-range: green hotel west district, luxury: dream 12 hotel, anping old street, luermen mazu temple, shennong old street, chihkan tower, hua yuan night market, dragon and tiger pagodas, fo guang shan buddha museum, ruifeng night market, cijin island, day trip to kenting national park, budget: ahiruyah guesthouse, mid-range: the cloud hotel, luxury: grand hi lai hotel, qixingtan beach, pine garden, hualien cultural and creative industries park, shrines and temples, dongdamen night market, day trip to taroko gorge national park, budget: xiang pin hotel, mid-range: 1999 b&b, luxury: shanghai time, return to taipei, if you prefer less travel time…, if you prefer more time in nature…, if you prefer more time in cities…, the ultimate guide to 2 weeks in taiwan.

Here is our ultimate 2 week itinerary for exploring the highlights of Taiwan. We’ll include suggestions for accommodation and how to get around via public transport, rental car, or booking tours.

How to get around during 2 weeks in Taiwan

Getting around Taiwan is relatively easy, thanks to its well-developed transportation infrastructure. You can choose how you want to travel during your 2 week Taiwan itinerary! The main options are rental car or train for traveling long distances around the island. Metro, bus, or taxi are available for getting around within cities.

A rental car is the easiest option because you’re fully in charge of your own schedule. You can drive wherever you want whenever you want, which makes your Taiwan itinerary super flexible.

You don’t necessarily need a car in Taipei, as it is a big, developed city with good public transport. A popular way to explore Taiwan may be to spend a few days in Taipei, then rent a car to continue on your road trip around the island.

Or you can rent a car right when you arrive at Taoyuan International Airport and just have that vehicle for the duration of your Taiwan itinerary. But for those who aren’t super comfortable driving in foreign countries, public transport and tours are available as well!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

One of the most convenient ways to travel between cities is by train. The high-speed rail (HSR) connects major destinations such as Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung, and more. The HSR offers fast and comfortable rides, though it is a bit more expensive than the standard train.

Additionally, Taiwan’s extensive railway network provides access to various towns and scenic areas, offering travelers the chance to explore the island’s diverse landscapes and cultural sites.

You can easily do this 2 week itinerary using just public transport, with train being the main travel method between cities.

If you are taking train journeys during your two weeks in Taiwan, try to book your tickets in advance to ensure the journey isn’t sold out, especially on weekends!

Within cities, Taiwan offers efficient public transportation systems, including buses and metros.

Taipei boasts an extensive metro system, known as the Taipei Metro or MRT, which covers most areas of the city and its suburbs. The MRT is clean, reliable, and easy to navigate, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

In addition to the metro system, buses serve as a convenient mode of transportation, with routes reaching every corner of the city and beyond. For day trips outside of Taipei, the public bus is the most popular public transport option.

For those seeking a more flexible option, taxis and ride-sharing services are also available throughout Taiwan. They are, of course, a more expensive option so you’d only want to take a taxi for short distances if you’re traveling on a budget.

Guided tours are also handy for taking day trips and exploring within cities. If you don’t want to rent a car or take public transport, you can book fully guided experiences that also include the benefit of a knowledgeable local guide.

Tours are also a pricier option, so you may only want to book a few here and there throughout your 2 week itinerary. We’ll include plenty of tour options for those who do prefer the convenience and enhanced experience of a guided tour with transport!

2 Week Taiwan Itinerary

Now let’s get into the itinerary! This Taiwan itinerary involves a bit of hopping around so you can see as much of the island as possible in two weeks! At the end, we’ll provide some modifications if you’d prefer to travel more slowly.

Also, every traveler is different and has their own preferences. So we’ll also recommend some ways to spend more time in nature or spend more time in cities. Use this Taiwan itinerary as a guideline so you can curate your perfect adventure!

Day 1-5: Taipei (2 day trips)

Begin your 2 week itinerary in Taipei , the capital city of Taiwan. Around 5 days is a great amount of time for getting acquainted with the city and taking a couple of day trips.

Taipei has a captivating blend of tradition and modernity, where ancient temples stand alongside sleek skyscrapers. There is so much to see and do, from night markets to unique neighborhoods to historic monuments and more.

Here are some of the top activities to include during your 5 days in Taipei! You can do as much or as little as you like before heading off on the rest of your Taiwan itinerary.

Check out this 3 Days in Taipei Itinerary for more inspiration!

Walking tours are the perfect introduction to any new city. Taipei has two amazing free walking tour companies to choose from. Both companies offer a range of free walking tours where you can explore the city, chat with your local guide, and learn about the area’s history and culture.

TourMeAway has a historic Old Town walking tour and also a Longshan Temple cultural walking tour. They also offer pub crawls and private tours!

Like It Formosa has another great historic walking tour , as well as private tours and food tours of Taipei.

For the best views of Taipei City, visit the tallest skyscraper in Taiwan!

Formerly the tallest building in the world, this architectural marvel dominates Taipei’s skyline with its unique design inspired by traditional Asian pagodas and bamboo. The observation decks are the main draw, as you get an excellent aerial view of the city.

Museums and landmarks

Another great way to explore Taipei is visiting the various museums and cultural landmarks. Here are a few of the city’s top attractions!

The National Palace Museum is a must-visit during your Taipei itinerary. It houses one of the most extensive collections of Chinese imperial artifacts and artworks in the world. Visitors can marvel at treasures spanning thousands of years, including ancient bronzes, exquisite ceramics, delicate jade carvings, and renowned calligraphy scrolls.

Art lovers can also visit the Taipei Fine Arts Museum , dedicated to contemporary Taiwanese and international art. The museum showcases paintings, sculptures, multimedia installations and more, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists to showcase their talents.

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall stands as a majestic tribute to the former leader of the Republic of China, situated at the heart of Taipei. Visitors can explore the vast plaza, home to the National Concert Hall and the National Theater. The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall itself houses a museum displaying artifacts, photographs, and documents chronicling Chiang’s life and the evolution of Taiwan under his leadership.

As the oldest and most famous temple in Taipei, Longshan Temple (also called Bangka Lungshan Temple or just Lungshan Temple) is another must-visit. The temple is an architectural masterpiece as well as an important religious, cultural, and spiritual monument. It’s free to enter Longshan Temple, but remember to wear modest clothing to respect the culture!

Taiwan’s capital city is home to several exquisite parks and gardens for those in need of some greenery.

One such gem is Daan Forest Park , a sprawling green space in the heart of the city. Boasting lush vegetation, serene ponds, and meandering pathways, Daan Forest Park provides a tranquil retreat for outdoor activities.

Taipei Botanical Garden is another lovely option. The garden has a diverse collection of both indigenous and exotic plant species, as well as themed areas including a bamboo garden, aquatic plants section, and tropical rainforest zone.

Dajia Riverside Park , located on the banks of the Keelung River, is another great place to go for a walk and get some fresh air while you visit Taipei.

You’ll probably visit plenty of markets during your 2 weeks in Taiwan, but here are some Taipei options to get the ball rolling! Most night markets in Taiwan open at 5pm and run until 11pm or later.

You can find lots of delicious street food as well as souvenirs, drinks, and other goods at a night market. Foodies can even join a guided walking tour and try local dishes at a night market if they want a more immersive experience.

But during your 5 days in Taipei, try to visit at least one or two of these iconic markets. They are scattered all over the city so you’re sure to find somewhere that’s near your accommodation!

• Shilin Night Market, Shilin District – the largest and most famous market
• Huaxi Night Market, Wanhua District – conveniently located near Longshan Temple
• Raohe Night Market, Songshan District – a historic market
• Ningxia Night Market, Datong District – a smaller market of just one street
• Nanjichang Night Market, Zhongzheng District – one of the cheapest markets

An excellent addition to any Taiwan itinerary is hiking Elephant Mountain. Located just on the outskirts of Taipei near the Taipei 101 Observatory, this short but steep hike rewards you with breathtaking views of the city.

Depending on your fitness level, the Elephant Mountain hike is around 30-50 minutes. For the best natural colors, do the hike at sunrise or sunset!

Day trips from Taipei

With 5 days in Taipei, you’ll have plenty of time for a day trip or two! The two most recommended day trips from Taipei are:

• Yangmingshan National Park & Beitou Hot Springs
• Jiufen & Shifen Waterfall (and Yehliu Geopark if you have time)

Yangmingshan National Park and Beitou Hot Springs are both north of the Taipei city centre, whereas Jiufen and Shifen Waterfall are both east of the city centre. Yehliu Geopark is northeast and can be combined with Jiufen and Shifen Waterfall.

Here is some more info about these day trip recommendations!

• Driving time from Taipei: 25 minutes – 1 hour depending where in the park you go
• Public transport: Bus from Taipei Main Station, Jiantan, Shilin, Shipai, or Xinbeitou MRT Stations
• Tour: Beitou Hot Springs and Yangmingshan Volcano Tour

Full of mountains, volcanoes, hiking trails, hot springs, wildflowers, and lush green fields, there is so much to see and do in Yangmingshan National Park.

Visitors can embark on scenic hikes along well-marked trails, such as the popular Xiaoyoukeng Trail , which leads to a mesmerizing volcanic crater with steaming fumaroles. Those looking for more challenging hikes can conquer the peaks of Mount Datun or Mount Qixing as well!

Additionally, Yangmingshan is renowned for its vibrant flora, with seasonal displays of cherry blossoms, azaleas, and rhododendrons painting the hillsides. Viewing the cherry blossoms at Flower Clock or soaking in the scenery at the Qingtiangang grasslands are also highlights of the park.

• Driving time from Taipei: Around 40 minutes
• Public transport: Take the metro to the Xinbeitou MRT station

On the way back to Taipei, do yourself a favor and stop at Beitou Hot Springs for a rejuvenating evening in a natural hot spring.

Renowned for their therapeutic properties, these natural geothermal springs have attracted visitors for centuries seeking relief from ailments and stress.

Beyond the hot springs, Beitou offers charming attractions such as the Beitou Hot Spring Museum , which provides insight into the history and cultural significance of the area’s thermal springs.

• Driving time from Taipei: Around 1 hour
• Public transport: Bus from MRT Zhongxiao Fuxing Station
• Tour: Jiufen Night View and Shifen Day Tour

Another one of the best day trips from Taipei is Jiufen, a picturesque village perched on the verdant hillsides overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Renowned for its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional teahouses, and stunning ocean views, you’ll find a more relaxed pace of life here than in the city.

Once a prosperous gold mining town, Jiufen’s quaint alleyways are now lined with boutique shops, street food vendors, historic buildings, and enticing tea houses.

Spend a few hours wandering the scenic streets, sipping tea, tasting local food delicacies, and learning about the history and culture of this beautiful country.

• Driving time from Taipei: 40 minutes
• Public transport: Train from Taipei Main Station

Just 40 minutes away from Jiufen is Shifen Waterfall, a highlight of northern Taiwan. As one of Taiwan’s most scenic waterfalls, Shifen plunges dramatically over a horseshoe-shaped cliff, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of natural beauty. Surrounding the waterfall is a tranquil forested area, providing a serene backdrop for leisurely walks and picnics.

Visitors can also explore the nearby Shifen Old Street, a charming village renowned for its historic railway line and iconic sky lanterns.

From Shifen Waterfall, walk a few minutes down the road to Shifen Old Street. This charming village is set on a historic railway line and is known for its sky lantern tradition. Here, visitors can write their wishes on colorful lanterns before releasing them into the sky.

• Public transport:
• Tour: Shifen, Jiufen, and Yehliu Guided Day Trip

Yehliu Geopark is a geological wonderland renowned for its otherworldly rock formations and stunning coastal landscapes.

Shaped by centuries of natural erosion and weathering, the park is home to an array of unique rock formations, including the iconic “Queen’s Head” and “Candle Rock,” which have been sculpted into fantastical shapes by the forces of nature.

Visitors can wander along the park’s well-maintained pathways, marveling at the intricate patterns and textures of the rocks while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding sea.

This makes a great half-day trip from Taipei, or you can combine it with your visit to Shifen Waterfall and Jiufen as it’s in a similar area!

Another option is booking a private day tour of northern Taiwan from Taipei. You can help plan the itinerary and choose which attractions and sights you’d like to visit on your day out of the city!

This is the perfect option for couples or small groups who don’t want a busy group tour, but don’t feel like renting a car and driving themselves. You’ll have a private driver guide to bring you to the best sights.

Where to Stay in Taipei

Here are some accommodation options for a range of budgets. The city is quite large and spread out, so ideally you’d want to stay somewhere central near Taipei Main Station. That will make it easier to hop around and take transport.

But if you have a rental car and you’d prefer somewhere more secluded, you can also find accommodations in quieter parts of the city’s outskirts. A homestay, guesthouse, or Airbnb is also an amazing option where you can stay with locals and have a more intimate, personalised experience!

But for those hoping to stay in downtown Taipei, here are some of the best options.

Old Door Hostel and Bar is one of the top-rated hostels for those who want to save money. With a rustic, cozy common area, free Wifi, and a convenient location near Taipei Main Station, this place has everything budget travelers may need!

For a more upscale stay in Taipei, Evergreen Laurel Hotel has affordable prices in the heart of the city center. With warm, modern furnishings, friendly staff, room service, and an airport shuttle, you’re getting great value for money here.

If you want a five-star treatment in your own Taipei studio apartment, look no further than San Want Residences . When you stay in the spacious studio apartments here, you can enjoy the on-site fitness center, art gallery, business centre, and all-day complimentary coffee and tea in the lounge.

Day 6 & 7: Taichung and Sun Moon Lake

Now that we’ve covered 5 days in Taipei, it’s time to continue on your Taiwan trip! Whether you’ve got a rental car, you’re about to hire one for the rest of the Taiwan itinerary, or you’re boarding the train, it’s time to head down the West Coast towards Taichung. It’s about 2 hours from Taipei to Taichung.

Taichung is another one of the largest Taiwanese cities and is known as the gateway to Sun Moon Lake. Spend 2 days here, with one day exploring the city and one day venturing out to the iconic lake.

Things To Do In Taichung

While spending a couple of days in Taichung, here are some of the top attractions you may want to include! You’ll definitely want to take a day trip out to Sun Moon Lake while visiting Taichung as well.

Rainbow Village is a vibrant and whimsical art installation in Taichung that is one of the most adorable things to see while visiting Taiwan.

Originally a modest settlement built for military veterans, the village was transformed into an open-air art gallery by one resident, Huang Yung-Fu, affectionately known as “Grandpa Rainbow.” He painted every surface of Rainbow Village with playful murals, whimsical characters, and intricate designs, transforming the plain buildings into a colorful masterpiece.

The National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts , situated in the cultural heart of Taichung, showcases the diverse and vibrant world of Taiwanese and international art. Established in 1988, this sprawling museum has a rich collection of artworks spanning various genres, mediums, and periods.

From traditional Chinese paintings and calligraphy to modern sculptures and multimedia installations, the museum allows travelers to engage with the local history, culture, and design.

This picturesque destination captivates visitors with its rows of flower beds, including colorful roses, sunflowers, tulips, and more.

Zhongshe Flower Market also offers a range of attractions, including funny photo spots, decorative windmills, and quaint pavilions where visitors can relax and take in the serene countryside scenery.

It’s located about 40 minutes north of Taichung, so you could also stop here on your drive from Taipei to Taichung as it’s on the way!

Taiching is home to Taiwan’s biggest night market, Feng Chia. A hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment, the market is packed with maze-like alleys of food stalls, fashion boutiques, and game booths.

Here you can embark on a culinary adventure, shop for souvenirs, watch street performers, and just soak in the chaotic but exciting energy of this iconic market.

Read next: 15 Awesome Things to Do in Taipei, Taiwan

• Driving time from Taichung: 1.5 hours
• Public transport: Bus or train from Taichung Train Station
• Tour: Sun Moon Lake & Qingjing Farm Shared Tour

Sun Moon Lake is one of the most popular sights on any Taiwan 2 week itinerary. As Taiwan’s largest alpine lake, this stunning natural wonder is a beautiful place to visit on a day trip.

Stroll along the lakeside promenade or rent a bicycle and cycle around the scenic trails. Or take to the water and explore on a paddleboard !

But catching boat rides around the Sun Moon Lake is the best way to cover the most ground. You can book a hop on hop off boat ticket and spend the whole day cruising around this beautiful body of water.

Also be sure to check out Wenwu Temple on the northern shores of the lake. This architectural marvel and spiritual relic is not only a fascinating landmark, it also provides the best views of Sun Moon Lake.

Where to Stay in Taichung

Taichung is a sprawling city, so there are lots of accommodation options. It’s also cheaper than Taipei! You can stay anywhere around the city, but you may want to be near a bus station or metro station so you can hop around to different areas without a car.

Save money during your Taiwan itinerary by staying at Allegro Hostel ! You can stay in private rooms for super cheap prices and still enjoy nice amenities and a great location near public transport.

This eco-friendly, centrally located hotel offers amazing value for a lovely stay. Green Hotel West District has clean, modern stylings, air conditioning, free Wifi, and 24/7 service.

Dream 12 Hotel offers a luxurious stay in a nice area between Taichung’s North District and Central District. With excellent service, public transport and attractions within walking distance or a short drive, and stunning amenities such as swan feather bedding and an LCD TV, this hotel has everything you need!

Day 8: Tainan City – 1 day on the way to Kaohsiung

From Taichung, continue south towards Kaohsiung which is where you’ll spend the next two days. It’s only about 2.5 hours between Taichung and Kaohsiung, so you can stop in Tainan along the way to spend a few hours exploring another one of Taiwan’s cities.

Things To Do In Tainan

Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city, is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and culinary delights. If you choose to stop in Tainan on your 2 week itinerary, here are some sights you may want to include during your day of exploring.

Welcome to the oldest street in Taiwan! This charming alley is lined with traditional red-brick buildings, ancient temples, and quirky shops.

Visitors can wander through the maze-like alleys, immersing themselves in the rich history of the area, which was once a bustling trading port during the Dutch colonial era. Nearby, Anping Fort provides a glimpse into Taiwan’s military history, with well-preserved ramparts and cannons overlooking the waterfront.

Luermen Mazu Temple, located in Tainan’s Anping District, is dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea and protector of fishermen. This historic temple has a rich history dating back over three centuries.

Inside, worshippers and visitors alike pay their respects to Mazu and offer prayers for safe voyages and prosperity. The temple’s vibrant atmosphere, especially during annual festivals honoring Mazu, provides a fascinating glimpse into Taiwan’s cultural traditions and spiritual practices.

Named after the legendary Chinese deity Shennong, Shennong Old Street is home to well-preserved Qing Dynasty-era buildings, traditional temples, and quaint shops selling a variety of local goods and handicrafts. Visitors can wander through the narrow cobblestone lanes and get a dose of history during their Taiwan 2 week itinerary!

For a deeper dive into Tainan’s past, visit Chihkan Tower . This historic site, also known as Fort Provintia, served as the administrative center during the Dutch and Qing dynasties and now houses a museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to Tainan’s colonial history.

No visit to Tainan is complete without indulging in its famous street food, especially because the city is often considered the “food capital of Taiwan.” Visitors can embark on a gastronomic adventure at Hua Yuan Night Market, feasting on local specialties such as coffin bread, oyster omelettes, and savory rice cakes.

If you’re heading to Mainland China, check out our Complete China Travel Guide!

Day 9 – 12: Kaohsiung – 3 days

After exploring Tainan for the day, continue south to Kaohsiung where you’ll find your accommodation and hang out for the next 3 days of your 2 week itinerary.

Things To Do In Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second biggest city, is a vibrant metropolis on the island’s southwestern coast. Renowned for its bustling port, Kaohsiung seamlessly blends industrial prowess with natural beauty, boasting picturesque waterfronts, lush parks, and iconic landmarks. Here are the top activities to include in your 3 days here!

This is probably the most famous sight in the city. Situated on the shores of Lotus Pond, these ornate structures capture the essence of traditional Chinese temple design. As visitors pass through the jaws of the Dragon and Tiger entrances, they are believed to symbolically cleanse themselves of past troubles and emerge reborn.

Inside, vibrant murals depict scenes from Buddhist mythology and offer glimpses into ancient wisdom. You can also climb to the top of the two pagodas for amazing views!

The Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum is a magnificent testament to Buddhist culture, philosophy, and artistry. This sprawling complex serves as a pilgrimage site and cultural landmark, and houses an extensive collection of Buddhist artifacts, scriptures, and statues.

At the heart of the museum stands the towering statue of Amitabha Buddha, one of the tallest bronze statues in the world. Surrounding the statue, visitors can explore beautiful landscaped gardens, tranquil ponds, and ornate pavilions.

Ruifeng Night Market is like a foodie paradise that really comes to life when the sun goes down. You can’t help but be drawn in by the incredible smells and sounds that fill the air, pulling you into a world of delicious street eats.

And it’s not just about the food – you can also score some awesome finds while browsing through stalls selling everything from trendy clothes to quirky souvenirs.

Another cool place to visit on your 2 week itinerary of Taiwan is Cijin Island, a hidden gem just a short ferry ride away from Kaohsiung. As you step off the ferry, you’re greeted by sandy beaches, picturesque bike paths, and charming seafood stalls serving up fresh catches of the day.

A fun way to explore the island is by bike! There are lots of bike rental shops on the main street when you get off the ferry. Once you’ve got your wheels, spend a few hours cruising around this beautiful island.

Historic landmarks, like the Cijin Lighthouse and Fort Cijin, offer a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage. Be sure to check out the cool shells and artifacts at the Cijin Shell Museum , walk through the cool contemporary art installation known as Rainbow Church, and admire the amazing murals in Linya Street Art Village.

• Driving time from Kaohsiung: 2 hours
• Public transport: The Kenting Express Bus travels directly between Kaohsiung and Kenting National Park
• Tour: Classic Kenting Day Tour from Kaohsiung

If you want to dedicate one of your days in Kaohsiung to exploring the southern tip of Taiwan, take a day trip to this beautiful seaside national park. Kenting National Park is a natural wonderland of stunning coastline, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.

Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails that wind through lush forests, discover hidden waterfalls, or venture underwater to witness the colorful marine life thriving in the park’s clear blue waters. Go surfing at Xiaowan Beach, watch the sunset from Maobitou Park, or just get lost and admire the tranquil coastal views.

You can also try lots of water sports in the park, including paddleboarding , whale watching, snorkelling, and scuba diving .

Beyond its natural beauty, Kenting is also steeped in cultural significance, with historical landmarks like the Eluanbi Lighthouse and Longpan Park providing glimpses into the region’s rich heritage.

Where to stay in Kaohsiung

The most convenient area to stay in the city is near Kaohsiung Main Station. You’ll be right in the heart of the city within walking distance or a short metro ride to the central train station, which makes it easy to get around.

Again, if you have a car, you have more flexibility to stay in some more secluded guesthouses or Airbnbs further out of the city.

For a nice but affordable stay in Kaohsiung when you visit Taiwan, this lovely guesthouse near the main train station has you covered. It’s a cozy hostel that offers cheap dorms and nice private rooms for couples.

This futuristic and impressive hotel is tastefully designed yet doesn’t cost a fortune. The Cloud Hotel is right in the heart of the city and has free breakfast, excellent staff, and quality amenities.

The Grand Hi Lai Hotel is a stunning property with world class service. Guests can enjoy the onsite spa, fitness centre, swimming pool, and beautiful rooms with sea views!

Day 13 & 14: Hualien

From Kaohsiung, it’s time to head north up the East Coast. You have one more stop on your itinerary before you return to Taipei and finish up your time in Taiwan.

This is the longest travel day you’ll have, as it’s about 6.5 hours driving from Kaohsiung to Hualien. If you’re taking public transport, you can book a train from Kaohsiung Main Station to Hualien Train Station and arrive in about 4.5 or 5 hours.

Things To Do In Hualien

Hualien is another one of the major cities in Taiwan. You can spend a day exploring the city’s highlights and spend one day exploring the nearby wonder of Taroko National Park. Here are the top activities and sights in Hualien!

Qixingtan Beach, with its sweeping crescent of golden sand and sapphire waters, is a serene oasis on Hualien’s coastline. It’s located just north of the city center and is accessible via public transport.

For nature lovers, you can head 30 minutes outside town to the beautiful Liyu Lake. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride or scenic bike ride around Liyu Lake, surrounded by stunning mountains and offering opportunities for fishing and birdwatching.

Another way to soak in the natural beauty of Hualien is wandering through the historic buildings and landscaped greenery of Pine Garden , a former Japanese military officer’s residence turned cultural heritage site.

If you’re looking for a dose of art and culture, check out the Hualien Cultural and Creative Industries Park. Browse through local handicrafts, art galleries, and boutique shops housed in beautifully restored warehouses at this cultural hub.

Hualien is also home to some stunning shrines and temples. The magnificent Hualien Martyrs’ Shrine and the historic Ji’an Qingxiu Temple are some of the most impressive landmarks in the city. The Sheng An Temple is a beautiful Taoist landmark and the Xiangde Temple is surrounded by lush mountain scenery.

This iconic night market in the city offers a feast for the senses. Amidst the delicious food aromas, visitors can also peruse a variety of merchandise, including clothing, accessories, and souvenirs, while immersing themselves in the lively atmosphere.

Read next: 26 AWESOME Things to Do in Beijing, China

• Driving time from Hualien: 40 minutes
• Public transport: Public shuttle bus from Hualien Train Station
• Tour: Taroko Gorge English-Guided Tour From Hualien

Aside from the attractions in the city, the main reason why travelers visit Hualien is to explore Taroko Gorge National Park!

Carved by the Liwu River over millions of years, Taroko Gorge stretches for 19 kilometers through towering marble cliffs, plunging valleys, and cascading waterfalls, earning it the nickname “The Marble Gorge.”

Hikers can explore an extensive network of trails in the park. The hikes offer breathtaking views of the gorge and allow you to discover hidden shrines, temples, and dramatic rock formations along the way.

The Shakadang Trail is only 4km and is one of the most beautiful trails in the park. Ambitious hikers can take on the Zhuili Old Trail, which is 10km long and snakes along a dramatic cliffside.

Cultural enthusiasts can delve into the rich history and traditions of Taiwan’s indigenous peoples at the Taroko National Park Headquarters, where interactive exhibits and guided tours offer insights into the region’s heritage and conservation efforts.

One of the park’s most iconic attractions is the Eternal Spring Shrine, also called Changchun Shrine. Perched precariously on a cliffside, it’s one of the most notable landmarks in the park. Whatever you choose to do, Taroko Gorge is an absolute must on any Taiwan itinerary!

Where to stay in Hualien City

Here are some of the top accommodation options in Hualien where you can spend your last few nights in Taiwan.

You can find some really cheap hotels in Hualien, Xiang Pin Hotel being one of them. Stay right in the heart of the city near the best attractions and enjoy your own private room and bathroom for a super affordable price.

For a cozy, homey experience in the city, choose the 1999 B&B . With a range of double rooms and a family room, here you can stay amidst the adorable decor and enjoy free Wifi, free toiletries, and a restaurant and terrace on site.

There aren’t many high-end luxury hotels in Hualien, but you can get the nicest hotels and guesthouses in the city for very affordable prices or you can rent your own villa. Shanghai Time is an entire villa with mountain views, quirky decorations, and quality amenities.

After 2 days in Hualien, continue driving north up the East Coast and return to Taipei! Or take the train or bus from Hualien to Taipei. There are lots of options as it’s a popular route, and the journey is only about 2.5 hours.

On your drive north, consider a stop at the stunning Qingshui Cliff, located just 45 minutes north of Hualien. Here you can admire a final panoramic view of the bright blue waters and rugged coastline before you head back into the city!

2 Weeks In Taiwan Itinerary Modifications

Here are some suggestions for modifying your Taiwan itinerary to suit your travel style!

If you want less driving and moving around, you could cut out the southern part of the island and just drive from Taichung across to Hualien which is 5 hours. This 2 week itinerary would look something like this:

• 7 days in Taipei (with more time for day trips and exploring the city)
• 3 days in Taichung
• 4 days in Hualien City (with more time for exploring Taroko National Park)

Some people are not huge city lovers, and our 2 week Taiwan itinerary does include quite a few cities.

One way to modify the itinerary to include more time outdoors is to just spend fewer days in Taipei. Beach lovers can then add more days to their time in Hengchun in the south, and hiking lovers could add more days to one of the various national parks.

Alishan also offers amazing trekking. So during your drive down the East Coast of Taiwan, you could skip Taichung or Tainan and instead spend a day or two hiking in Alishan.

For those who prefer the hustle and bustle of a city, you can easily modify this 2 weeks in Taiwan itinerary. Just remove any of the waterfalls, lakes, and national parks and spend more time sightseeing!

For example, you could skip Taroko National Park and spend 2 whole days exploring Hualien City, which has so many cool things to do.

Or you could skip Sun Moon Lake and spend 2 whole days exploring Taichung. There are so many options to create your perfect 2 week itinerary for Taiwan!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

Gabby Boucher

Hi, We’re Alesha and Jarryd!

We’ve been traveling the world together since 2008, searching for the planet’s best destinations and adventures.

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