Quick Summary
Planning a trip to Taiwan? This comprehensive guide walks you through the best places, from vibrant Taipei to breathtaking Taroko Gorge.
Discover must-see attractions, essential travel tips, accommodation advice, transport hacks, safety tips, budget breakdowns, and personal insights to make your trip unforgettable.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a returning traveler, this guide has everything you need for a smooth, enriching Taiwan adventure.
Why Taiwan Should Be Your Next Travel Destination
When I first stepped off the plane in Taipei, I was immediately captivated by the seamless blend of modernity and tradition, bustling night markets, and stunning natural landscapes just a train ride away. Taiwan offers an extraordinary mix of culture, nature, and food that few places can match. From the towering Taipei 101 to the dramatic cliffs of Taroko Gorge, this island packs a punch for any traveler.
In this guide, I’ll share everything I learned on my journey — including insider tips, safety advice, budget planning, and how to get around — so you can enjoy a smooth and unforgettable trip.
What You’ll Find in This Guide
- • Best places to visit from Taipei to Taroko Gorge
- • How to get there and get around Taiwan
- • Safety tips and emergency contacts
- • Accommodation options and where to stay
- • Typical costs and suggested travel budget
- • Best times to visit and length of stay recommendations
- • Recommended tours and activities
Must-See Places: From Taipei’s Urban Charm to Taroko’s Natural Majesty
Taipei: The Energetic Heart of Taiwan
Taipei is where tradition and futuristic architecture collide. You cannot miss the Taipei 101 skyscraper — it was once the world’s tallest building and offers an unparalleled city view from its observation deck. For cultural immersion, Longshan Temple and the National Palace Museum are absolute must-visits.
And, of course, the night markets — Shilin Night Market and Raohe Street Night Market — provide mouthwatering street food experiences like stinky tofu, bubble tea, and pepper buns. I found these bustling spots great for tasting local flavors and picking up souvenirs.
Jiufen and Pingxi: Nostalgic Mountain Towns and Sky Lantern Magic
Just a short train ride from Taipei, Jiufen is a charming hillside village with winding streets filled with teahouses and artisan shops. The views of the Pacific Ocean from here are breathtaking. Nearby Pingxi is famous for its sky lantern festival — writing your wishes on lanterns and releasing them into the night sky is a deeply memorable experience.
Sun Moon Lake: Serene Beauty in the Mountains
Located in central Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is renowned for its crystal-clear waters surrounded by forested hills. Rent a bike to circle the lake, visit the Ci’en Pagoda for panoramic views, and take a relaxing boat ride.
I found the peaceful vibe here the perfect counterpoint to Taipei’s urban energy.
Taroko Gorge: Taiwan’s Natural Wonder
This marble-walled canyon is a jaw-dropping showcase of nature’s power. Hiking trails like Shakadang Trail and Zhuilu Old Trail reveal turquoise rivers, waterfalls, and lush forests.
The Taroko National Park visitor center offers excellent maps and safety tips. I recommend allowing at least two full days here to explore thoroughly.
Getting to Taiwan and Navigating Around the Island
Most international travelers arrive at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), about 40 minutes from Taipei. From the airport, the Taoyuan MRT connects efficiently to Taipei Main Station, making transfers easy.
For travel within Taiwan, the High-Speed Rail (HSR) and Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA) trains are the backbone. The HSR connects Taipei to southern cities like Kaohsiung in under two hours — super fast and reliable. For Taroko and the East Coast, TRA’s scenic routes are your best bet. Within cities, Taipei and Kaohsiung have excellent metro systems.
I always found buying an EasyCard handy — it works on trains, buses, and even convenience stores, so you don’t have to fumble for cash.
Where to Stay: Best Accommodation Options
Taipei: The Okura Prestige Taipei
Luxury lovers will enjoy this 5-star hotel with top-notch amenities and a central location. From around ₩18,000 TWD (~$600 USD) per night. Official Site
Hualien: Silks Place Taroko
A luxurious stay right inside Taroko National Park. Rooms start at ₩9,000 TWD (~$300 USD). Perfect for nature enthusiasts. Official Site
Budget Option: Meander Taipei Hostel
Perfect for backpackers and budget travelers. Clean, cozy dorms and private rooms from ₩800 TWD (~$26 USD) per night.
Budgeting Your Taiwan Trip
Taiwan is very budget-friendly. Street food meals cost around 100–150 TWD (~$3-5 USD), while mid-range restaurants average 300–600 TWD (~$10-20 USD). Accommodation varies from 500 TWD for hostels to over 3000 TWD for luxury hotels per night.
Transportation via HSR can range from 700 to 1500 TWD depending on distance. An EasyCard recharge for metro and buses usually costs 500–1000 TWD for a week’s travel. Overall, I recommend budgeting about 2000–3000 TWD (~$65–100 USD) per day for a comfortable trip including meals, transport, and sightseeing.
Safety and Essential Tips
Taiwan is generally very safe for travelers. Just practice normal precautions like securing your belongings and staying aware in crowded areas. Tap water is safe to drink, but I usually prefer bottled water on hikes. If you have food allergies, be sure to communicate clearly or have a translation card, as some street food may contain nuts or seafood.
- • Taiwan is generally very safe for travelers; petty crime is rare.
- • Carry a copy of your passport and keep emergency contact numbers handy.
- • Public Wi-Fi is widespread, but consider a local SIM or portable Wi-Fi device.
- • Weather can vary — pack layers and rain gear if visiting in spring or autumn.
- • Learn basic Mandarin phrases or use translation apps — English is limited outside big cities.
- • Respect local customs and temple etiquette, such as removing shoes where required.
When to Visit and How Long to Stay
The best time to visit Taiwan is in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) for pleasant weather and fewer typhoons. I spent 10 days exploring Taipei, Jiufen, Sun Moon Lake, and Taroko Gorge — a well-balanced itinerary that allows you to savor both city life and nature.
Recommended Tours & Activities
I highly recommend joining a guided tour of Taroko Gorge to safely explore hidden trails and learn about local geology. In Taipei, cooking classes, tea ceremonies, and night market food tours are fantastic ways to dive deep into the culture. Booking through platforms like WakaAbuja makes planning easier.
Final Thoughts
Taiwan offers a uniquely rewarding travel experience with its blend of lively cities, tranquil nature, rich culture, and incredible food. Whether it’s your first trip or a return visit, this island promises memories that will last a lifetime. Pack your bags, embrace the adventure, and enjoy every moment from Taipei’s skyscrapers to Taroko’s majestic cliffs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Taiwan safe for solo travelers?
Yes, Taiwan is known for its safety and friendly locals. It’s ideal for solo travelers, including women.
Do I need a visa to visit Taiwan?
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many countries enjoy visa-free entry for up to 90 days. Check the official immigration website before traveling.
What language is spoken in Taiwan?
Mandarin Chinese is the official language. Taiwanese Hokkien and Hakka are also spoken locally. English is common in major tourist areas but limited elsewhere.
How do I get from Taipei to Taroko Gorge?
Take the Taiwan Railway (TRA) train from Taipei Main Station to Hualien, then a local bus or taxi to Taroko National Park.
What is the currency used in Taiwan?
The New Taiwan Dollar (TWD) is the official currency. ATMs are widely available, and credit cards are accepted in many places.
