Best Taiwan Tours & Trips

Do I Need a Visa to Travel to Taiwan

For many nationalities, including citizens of the United States, Canada, the UK, Australia, and numerous European and Asian countries, travel to Taiwan for tourism purposes does not require a visa for short stays. Visa-exempt entry is typically granted for 90 days or less.

For any planned stay exceeding the visa-free period or for purposes other than tourism, you must obtain a visa prior to arrival.

Best Time to Travel to Taiwan

The best time to visit Taiwan is during the autumn months of September to November. Average temperatures range from 22–28°C (72–82°F), offering comfortable weather and clear skies. The next best season is spring, from March to May, with average temperatures between 18–25°C (64–77°F). Cherry blossoms bloom around Alishan during this period, though occasional rainfall may occur.

How Many Days in Taiwan Is Enough

5 days is sufficient for visiting major cities like Taipei and Sun Moon Lake, allowing you to see the main attractions. In 7 days, you can also explore cities such as Taichung or Kaohsiung. For a full island exploration, plan for at least 10-14 days.

Getting Around Taiwan

Between Cities: The primary mode of intercity travel is high-speed rail. Running along the west coast from Taipei in the north to Kaohsiung in the south, the high-speed rail network connects major cities, significantly reducing travel times. For instance, the journey from Taipei to Kaohsiung takes approximately 90 minutes. The older, more extensive train network operated by the Taiwan Railway Administration covers the entire island, including the scenic east coast and smaller towns, offering a slower pace of travel.

Within cities: In major cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung, the subway and bus systems can take you to various destinations. It is highly recommended that you purchase an EasyCard upon arrival.

Major Cities in Taiwan and Their Attractions

Taipei: As Taiwan's capital, it serves as the starting point for most trips to Taiwan. Major landmarks include the towering Taipei 101 skyscraper and the historic Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. The National Palace Museum houses an extensive collection of Chinese imperial artifacts, while Shilin Night Market is a must-visit destination for sampling local street food.

Kaohsiung: A port city in southern Taiwan with a warmer climate. The city has modern urban facilities and cultural and creative spaces. For example, Pier-2 Art Center is a cultural and creative district converted from old warehouses, featuring numerous exhibitions and cafes. Lotus Pond is also home to many historic buildings, including the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas and the Spring and Autumn Pavilions.

Hualien: Located on Taiwan's eastern coast, Hualien serves as the gateway to Taroko National Park, home to some of Taiwan's most renowned natural landscapes. The park features breathtaking marble cliffs, deep gorges, and challenging hiking trails like the Chulu Old Trail.

Taichung: Located in central Taiwan, it is home to the vibrant Rainbow Village and Fengchia Night Market, one of Taiwan's largest night markets.

5-Day Taiwan Travel Itinerary

● Day 1: Begin by visiting the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall in downtown Taipei, where you can watch the hourly changing of the guard ceremony. Afterward, explore the nearby National Taiwan Museum. In the evening, ascend Elephant Mountain to admire the sunset view of Taipei 101, then enjoy dinner at Raohe Night Market.

● Day 2: Today, we leave downtown Taipei for Jiufen Old Street, with its cartoonishly narrow alleys. Next, we head to Yehliu Geopark to observe the coastal rock formations. In the evening, we return to central Taipei to spend the night in bustling Ximending.

● Day 3: Explore Longshan Temple and the historic Bopiliao Old Street. Experience the tea culture via the Maokong Gondola. Afterward, you can take the subway to Beitou Hot Springs to enjoy some relaxation time.

● Day 4: Take the high-speed rail to Taichung, then transfer to a dedicated shuttle to Sun Moon Lake. Enjoy the lake views from Xuanguang Temple or take a boat tour to watch the sunset.

● Day 5: You can take a quick tour of Rainbow Village in Taichung, or return to Taipei depending on your schedule.

Cuisine and Street Food in Taiwan

Taiwan has a diverse culinary culture, especially in the night markets of each city. Among its offerings, beef noodle soup stands as a classic comfort food, featuring slow-cooked beef, tender noodles, and a savory broth. Next comes the renowned Din Tai Fung xiaolongbao, along with the delicious oyster omelette, made with fresh oysters and eggs.

If you enjoy bubble tea, it originated in Taichung as a sweet milk-based tea beverage and has consistently been one of the most popular drinks.