Taiwan is likely one of the most iconic journey locations in Asia. Whenever you see a photograph of Taipei 101, you’ll instantly realize it’s Taiwan. However other than this constructing that was as soon as the tallest on the earth, Taiwan has rather a lot to supply to vacationers. From wealthy cultural heritage, to fashionable cityscape, to gorgeous pure landscapes, it attracts vacationers who’re desirous about completely different sorts of journey. Whether or not you’re seeking to hike by scenic trails, go to temples, or eat your coronary heart out at evening markets, this island will certainly offer you a visit to recollect.
Taiwan was our final vacation spot earlier than the pandemic unfold world wide and earlier than international locations closed their borders. Actually, we even received stranded right here due to it! So after we felt that journey goes again to regular, it simply felt proper to make Taiwan our first in another country vacation spot.
And now, we’re sharing with you a pattern itinerary you could comply with particularly if it’s your first time in Taiwan.
Word: This isn’t the precise itinerary we had for our journey. But when it’s your first time and also you wish to expertise rather a lot in Taipei, this itinerary is what we extremely suggest.
DAY 1: TAIPEI CITY CENTER
Arrival
- Landing Airport. Whenever you land on the airport, you possibly can alternate cash or withdraw Taiwan {dollars} from the ATM so you could have native forex instantly. You can even purchase a SIM card or choose one up in case you pre-ordered on-line, so that you’re linked as quickly as you arrive. Listed below are two choices from Klook!
- Make your strategy to town heart. If you happen to’re on a DIY journey, you possibly can take the prepare or trip a bus to achieve your lodge. However in case you’re with an even bigger group, touring with seniors, or simply desire a smoother journey, you possibly can guide a tour bundle with a good company in Taiwan like Edison Excursions, and even from the Philippines.
- Examine in at lodge. If you happen to arrive too early to verify in, drop off your luggage on the lodge and begin exploring.
Because it’s your first time, it’s finest to see Taipei metropolis heart’s must-visit sights.
Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Corridor
In-built 1976 to honor one among Taiwan’s most essential figures, the Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Corridor homes a large statue of him in the principle chamber, with a museum and library on the decrease degree.
Handle: No.21, Zhongshan S. Highway, Zhongzheng District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C)
Nearest MRT Station: Chiang Kai-shek (CKS) Memorial Corridor Station (Crimson Line 2 or Inexperienced Line 3)
Open: Every day, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Charge: FREE
Solar Yat-sen Memorial Corridor
One other landmark constructed to honor one among Taiwan’s founding figures is the Solar Yat-sen Memorial Corridor. Solar Yat-sen is broadly thought to be the Father of the Nation, and this web site celebrates his legacy with a grand statue, displays, and spacious grounds good for a leisurely stroll.
Handle: No. 505, Part 4, Ren’ai Highway, Xinyi District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C)
Nearest MRT Station: Solar Yat-sen (SYS) Memorial Corridor Station (Blue Line 5)
Open: Every day, 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Entrance Charge: FREEWord: Since February 2024, the corridor is briefly closed for upkeep. It’s anticipated to reopen in 2026.
Taipei 101
Taipei 101 is essentially the most iconic attraction in Taipei. From 2004 to 2012, it held the title of the world’s tallest constructing till it was surpassed by the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. On the high, there’s an observatory the place you possibly can get pleasure from breathtaking panoramic views of the capital.
You’ll be able to safe your ticket prematurely on-line by accredited reserving websites like Klook!
✅ GET YOUR TAIPEI 101 TICKET HERE!
Handle: No. 7, Part 5, Xinyi Highway, Xinyi District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Nearest MRT Station: Taipei 101 Station (Crimson Line 2)
Hours open: Every day, 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Entrance Charge: NT$600
Elephant Mountain
Whereas the Taipei 101 Observatory affords an unimaginable view of town, the most effective vantage level is definitely from Elephant Mountain. Lots of the metropolis’s iconic postcard photographs had been probably taken right here. The best time to go to is late afternoon so you possibly can benefit from the skyline by day, catch the sundown, and see town gentle up at evening. Simply remember, it does require a little bit of a climb, so it won’t be appropriate for these with mobility considerations.
Path Head: Lane 150, Xinyi Highway, Part 5, Xinyi District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Nearest MRT Station: Xiàngshān Station (Crimson Line 2)
Entrance Charge: FREE
Ximending
Ximending is Taipei’s youth district, identified for its vibrant leisure, eating, and buying scene. It actually comes alive at evening — shiny, bustling, and filled with vitality. Consider it as Taipei’s model of Tokyo’s Harajuku. You’ll discover world model shops, bars, cafes, and golf equipment right here.
The most well-liked space is Ximen Walker Avenue, all the time filled with each vacationers and locals. There are additionally tons of meals choices round, making it an awesome place to seize dinner and wrap up your day.
Location: Ximending, Wanhua District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Nearest Station: Ximen Station (Blue Line 5 or Inexperienced Line 3)
Entrance Charge: FREE
DAY 2: NEW TAIPEI CITY
After exploring Taipei Metropolis, it’s time to move to New Taipei Metropolis. Although it’s a separate municipality, it’s typically grouped with Taipei Metropolis as a part of the Higher Taipei Metropolitan Space. Because of an environment friendly transportation system and each cities being progressive, you won’t even discover that they’re completely different cities.
On your second day, let’s change issues up and escape the skyscrapers and buying malls. Journey to the countryside, visiting the charming districts of Ruifang, Pingxi, and Wanli.
Yehliu Geopark
Positioned on the northernmost tip of Taiwan, the Yehliu Geopark is known for its placing rock formations, set in opposition to the backdrop of highly effective waves. It’s no shock that this spot is a favourite for photographers and vacationers alike.
Nonetheless, it’s a bit out of the best way in comparison with different sights. If you happen to’re doing it DIY-style, be conscious that the journey to the following cease may take round two hours. To avoid wasting time, we suggest becoming a member of a tour, which minimizes switch and ready instances. With out stops, it’s solely a couple of 45-minute to one-hour drive to the following vacation spot.
Klook affords a day tour that features Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, and Shifen, amongst others. This covers transportation, insurance coverage, and an English-speaking information.
✅ BOOK NEW TAIPEI DAY TOUR HERE!
For may also buy your entrance ticket forward of time on-line right here:
✅ GET YOUR YEHLIU GEOPARK TICKET HERE!
Handle: No. 167-1, Gangdong Highway, Wanli District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Entrance Charge: Grownup, NT$120; Youngster (6-12 y/o), NT$60
Jiufen Outdated Avenue
That is like stepping right into a scene from Spirited Away. Whereas it wasn’t the precise inspiration for Hayao Miyazaki’s movie, many say the city’s ambiance strongly evokes the enchanting environment of the animated world.
As soon as a gold mining city, Jiufen Outdated Avenue is now well-known for its teahouse tradition and charming streets. It’s a pleasant place to discover. You’ll be able to browse for souvenirs, get pleasure from tea or espresso in cozy cafés, or savor a meal in one among its quaint eating places. Fashionable spots embrace Jiufen Outdated Avenue, Shengping Theater, the Gold Mine Museum, Mount Keelung Path, and varied scenic viewpoints.
Location: Ruifang District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
The way to Get to Jiufen: From Taipei Major Station, take a prepare going to Ruifang Station. Alongside Mingdeng Highway is a bus station (Native Residents Plaza) with routes heading towards Jiufen. Take bus Route 827 or 788. Going again to Taipei metropolis, take bus Route 1062.
Houtong Cat Village
If you happen to’re a cat lover, the Houtong Cat Village is a must-visit! Positioned only a 15- to 20-minute drive from Jiufen, this former coal-mining city has remodeled right into a cat haven. In 2008, an area photographer captured the heartwarming sight of residents caring for deserted cats. Since then, the village has attracted cat lovers from everywhere in the globe.
Other than the cute cats, you’ll discover statues and cat-themed memento retailers. The village itself is superbly scenic, nestled between a stream and a railway. And in case you’re feeling hungry, there are many snack stalls to get pleasure from some native treats.
Location: Ruifang District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
The way to Get to Houtong Cat Village: If coming from Jiufen, take the prepare to from Ruifang Station to Houtong Station. From Taipei Major Station, take a prepare going to Ruifang Station. Then, switch to Pingxi Line to Houtong Station. One other method is to take a direct native prepare from Taipei Major Station to Houtong Station.
Shifen Waterfall
This space may also be an awesome lunch cease since there are many eating places and meals stalls round. However in case you’re doing a DIY journey, be prepared for some strolling. The closest prepare cease is Shifen Station, which is a couple of 25-minute stroll from the beginning of the path. From there, it’s one other 15 to twenty minutes to achieve the principle viewing deck.
That’s why becoming a member of a tour is a great possibility, particularly in case you’re touring with seniors or youngsters. Tour buses can park nearer to the strolling path, making the journey a lot shorter and extra snug. Alongside the best way, you’ll move by stalls promoting snacks, drinks, and souvenirs. Among the refreshments and bites you’ll discover are milk tea, lemon tea, contemporary fruits, and attention-grabbing atis (sugar apples) which are surprisingly enormous!
When you resist all of the meals temptations, you’ll attain the first viewpoint close to the cascade, which is ideal for photographs. However for the most effective angle, proceed alongside the path till you attain the predominant viewing platform for Shifen Falls. Simply remember there are stairs, so it is probably not appropriate for these with mobility considerations.
Location: Pingxi District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
The way to Get to Shifen Waterfalls: From Taipei Major Station, take a prepare going to Ruifang Station. Then, switch to Pingxi Line to Shifen Station. From there, you’ll attain the waterfalls in about 25 minutes on foot.
Shifen Outdated Avenue
Shifen Outdated Avenue is the place you’ll discover the iconic railway monitor that serves as the location for releasing sky lanterns. If you happen to resolve to attempt the exercise, you’ll begin by writing your needs or messages on the lantern. When you’re performed, a employees member will assist gentle it up, and you’ll watch it slowly rise and drift away with the wind.
The Pingxi District is known for its Sky Lantern Pageant, held in the course of the first lunar month — normally in February. However you don’t have to attend for the pageant to expertise this! Guests can launch sky lanterns year-round for a charge. After all, it’s not for everybody. If you happen to are likely to marvel the place these lanterns find yourself after they fall, you may wish to skip it. However there are nonetheless loads of different issues to get pleasure from, like purchasing for souvenirs or sampling snacks from the stalls that line the tracks.
Location: Pingxi District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
The way to Get to Shifen Outdated Avenue: From Taipei Major Station, take a prepare going to Ruifang Station. Then, switch to Pingxi Line to Shifen Station. The railway tracks run alongside the Shifen Outdated Avenue.
Raohe Evening Market
After the tour, it’s time to move again to town. For dinner, head to Raohe Evening Market, one of many oldest and most iconic evening markets in Taipei. As of writing, 4 meals stalls right here have Michelin Bib Gourmand recognition — an award given to eateries that serve nice meals at a superb worth.
We had been capable of attempt two of them. Essentially the most well-known is the Fuzhou Black Pepper Buns, identified for his or her crispy, charcoal-baked pork buns cooked in a standard brick oven. One other must-try is the Chen Dong Pork Ribs Medical Herbs Soup. It might appear like largely bones, however the meat is extremely tender and falls proper off. It’s heat, comforting, and flavorful. And when you’re right here, be courageous and check out the infamous pungent tofu, or snack on skewers from the numerous distributors. Then cap off your evening with a traditional Taiwanese milk tea!
Handle: Raohe Avenue, Songshan District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Nearest Station: Songshan Station (Inexperienced Line 3)
Open: Every day, 5:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Entrance Charge: FREE
DAY 3: NORTH TAIPEI TOUR
On the third day, let’s head north! This space is nonetheless inside Taipei Metropolis, nevertheless it’s extra on the countryside, away from the busy metropolis heart. Listed below are the attainable stops.
Yangmingshan Nationwide Park
Straddling Taipei and New Taipei Metropolis, Yangmingshan is one among Taiwan’s 9 nationwide parks. It’s an awesome vacation spot for nature lovers and outside lovers. The park’s most iconic function is Qixing Mountain, the tallest dormant volcano in Taiwan, surrounded by scenic mountain climbing trails.
Most guests discover the western facet of the park, which is essentially the most accessible and tourist-friendly. One among its well-known landmarks is the flower clock, a favourite photograph spot. If you happen to’re hoping to see cherry blossoms, this is likely one of the finest locations in Taiwan. Simply make sure that to go to throughout the correct season. The remainder of the yr, the park nonetheless bursts with coloration — because of peach blossoms, plum blossoms, azalea, and thorn apples.
Leap-off Level: Yangmingshan Nationwide Park Customer Middle, No. 1-20, Zhuzihu Highway, Beitou District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
The way to Get to Yangmingshan Nationwide Park: From Taipei Major Station, take Bus 260 to Yangmingshan Nationwide Park Bus Station. It’s only a brief stroll to the customer heart, which additionally serves as the principle entrance to the park.
Beitou Sizzling Spring Park
Beitou District is a identified scorching springs hotspot. Tucked between its peaks are valleys the place nutrient-rich, steamy waters bubble up from underground. It’s a scenic space, particularly round Beitou Sizzling Spring Park, which frequently seems to be mystical when blanketed in steam.
If you happen to select to go to one of many many public scorching springs or spas, you possibly can take a calming stroll by the park and soak within the environment — actually. If you happen to’re brief on time, at the least attempt the native tea eggs, a preferred snack typically offered across the space. It’s a singular mixture of nature, wellness, and native taste multi function spot.
Location: Beitou District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
The way to Get to Beitou Sizzling Spring Park: Relying in your itinerary, you possibly can alight at any of those prepare stations in Beitou from Taipei Major Station: Beitou Station, Xinbeitou Station, Zhongyi Station, Qiyan Station, Fuxinggang Station, Guandu Station, Qilian Station, Mingde Station, and Shipai Station
Nationwide Palace Museum
The Nationwide Palace Museum holds a set of round 700,000 artifacts, some courting again hundreds of years! However right here’s the kicker — solely about 1% of that’s really on show. The remaining? Safely tucked away in vaults beneath tight safety.
The gathering is so large that it’s arduous to wrap your head round. We’re speaking about 6,000 bronze items, 3,000 calligraphy works, and numerous gems, carvings, and textiles, amongst others. All of them showcase the depth and richness of Chinese language tradition and historical past. If you happen to’re planning to dive deep, get able to spend hours inside exploring.
Handle: No. 221, Sec 2, Zhi Shan Rd, Shilin District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan
Nearest MRT Station: Shilin Station (Crimson Line – 2), then take Bus R30 (NT$15)
Hours Open: Every day 8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Entrance Charge: NT$350
Shilin Evening Market
Unfold throughout two ranges, Shilin Evening Market is the most important evening market in Taipei. On the bottom flooring and close by alleys, you’ll largely discover memento retailers and attire shops.
However head all the way down to the basement, and prepare to really feel hungry, even in case you simply ate. The mouthwatering aroma hits immediately. It’s a maze of about 540 meals stalls and eateries providing native favorites like fried squid, grilled rooster tails, breaded rooster, Taiwanese sausages, fried buns, and oyster omelette. Better of all, it’s conveniently situated proper subsequent to the MRT station.
Handle: No. 101, Jihe Highway, Shilin District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Nearest MRT Station: Jiantan Station (Crimson Line – 2)
Greatest Time to Go to: 5:00 PM – 1:00 AM
Entrance Charge: FREE
DAY 4: CHILLIN’ AND SHOPPIN’
Don’t skip Taipei’s café tradition in your final day! Whereas Taiwan is historically identified for its tea, espresso has now taken the lead because the locals’ drink of selection. Actually, Taiwan boasts one of many highest concentrations of cafés on the earth. You’ll positively discover this in energetic areas like Ximending, the place cafés — each world chains and quirky specialty retailers — appear to pop up on each nook.
Fong Da Espresso
One café you shouldn’t miss is Fong Da Espresso, mentioned to be the primary to serve iced espresso in Taiwan method again in 1956. Whereas most cafés at this time purpose for a stylish, Instagrammable vibe, it stands out by embracing its classic allure and sticking to its old-school roots with delight.
Handle: No. 42, Chengdu Highway, Wanhua District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Opening Hours: Every day, 8:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Fashionable Rest room
After all, milk tea isn’t taking a backseat! Taiwan is the undisputed bubble tea capital of the world. Lots of the most recognizable milk tea manufacturers, like CoCo and ShareTea, had been both born right here or have their headquarters within the nation. However in case you’re in search of a milk tea expertise that’s actually unforgettable (and a bit of bizarre), head to Fashionable Rest room.
This quirky café-restaurant has been doling out hilariously “crappy” meals and drinks for years, and vacationers can’t get sufficient! All the pieces is toilet-themed — from the chairs and tables to the decor and even the dishes. You’ll be able to sip tea from a mini urinal and revel in ice cream served in a bathroom bowl. Yep, it’s bizarre…nevertheless it’s additionally quite a lot of enjoyable!
Branches: Ximending and Shilin
Opening Hours: Ximending – Every day, 11:30 AM – 10:00 PM; Shilin – Every day, 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
Vigor Kobo Pineapple Cake Manufacturing unit
Probably the most fashionable pasalubong gadgets from Taiwan is the enduring pineapple cake. On the Vigor Kobo Pineapple Cake Manufacturing unit, you are able to do extra than simply purchase a field. You’ll be able to really make your individual! They provide a enjoyable workshop the place you possibly can attempt your hand at crafting these candy treats from scratch. No baking expertise? No downside! It’s easy, straightforward, and a good way to take house a extra private memento.
Whereas ready in your truffles to bake, you possibly can discover the interactive museum to be taught extra in regards to the historical past of pineapple truffles and the way they’re made. One of many enjoyable options right here is the disappearing dandelion wall — give it a contact, and the flowers magically vanish! After purchasing for pasalubong, don’t overlook to benefit from the spotlight of the go to: tasting the pineapple cake you made, contemporary and heat from the oven.
Handle: No. 87, Part 1, Chengtai Highway, Wugu District, New Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Opening Hours: Every day, 8:30 AM – 5:30 PM
Ever Wealthy Responsibility Free
If you happen to’re prepared for some severe buying, Ever Wealthy Responsibility Free is the place to be. They’ve quite a few shops throughout Taipei, even within the airports, however we headed to their large flagship retailer in Neihu District. Unfold throughout 5 flooring, it’s filled with all types of treasures. Plus, you’ll discover some pop-up stalls exterior including to the buying enjoyable!
And naturally, don’t overlook to control your flight time! Be sure you catch your airplane!
Handle: No. 129, Jinzhuang Highway, Neihu District, Taipei Metropolis, Taiwan (R.O.C.)
Opening Hours: Every day, 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
D-I-Y vs Reserving a Tour
You’ll be able to positively do that itinerary DIY-style. Nonetheless, Days 2 and three could be difficult in case you rely solely on public transportation, because the schedule of buses and trains wants cautious timing. If you happen to’re touring with a bunch, seniors, folks with mobility considerations, or in case you simply desire a extra relaxed, hassle-free journey, reserving a tour is a way more handy possibility.
You’ll be able to take a look at Edison Excursions, which is likely one of the hottest tour operators in Taiwan. They’ve been working for many years. To see their affords, you possibly can go to their web site.
If you happen to favor to speak to Pinoys, listed here are a few of the journey businesses within the Philippines you could ask about Taipei tour packages.
- Constellation Travels Inc.
Web site: www.constellationtravels.com.ph
Cellular: +63 956 660 0693 - Journey Warehouse Inc.
Web site: www.twi.com.ph - VIA
Web site: https://ph.through.com
Landline: (+63 2) 8555-9444
E-mail: gross sales.ph@through.com - Ark Journey Specific Inc.
Web site: www.arktravelexpress.com
Landline: (+63 2) 8810-4520 / (+63 2) 8528-0933 - North Star Worldwide Journey Inc.
Web site: www.northstar-travel.com.ph
Landline: (+63 2) 3485-7272
E-mail: inquiry@northstar-travel.com.ph - Ricson Crown Journey & Excursions
Landline: (+63 2) 8352-0797
E-mail: ricsontrvl@yahoo.com - Iloilo Skyways Journey & Excursions
Web site: www.iloiloskywaystravel.com
Landline: (+63 33) 508-0909
E-mail: skyways1995@gmail.com - Levy Journey and Excursions
Landline: (+63 2) 8775-7436 / (+63 2) 8518-8801 / (+63 2) 8579-7215
Cellular: +63 917 879 7525
E-mail: levytravelandtours@gmail.com
The place to Keep in Taipei
Right here’s an inventory of the inns and hostels we tried in Taipei:
Seek for extra Taipei Motels!
Have Peace of Thoughts Whereas Touring!
Getting a journey insurance coverage is elective, however we extremely suggest this, particularly when touring overseas. Journey could be unpredictable, and although we hope we’ll by no means use it, having it offers us peace of thoughts in case of sudden delays, cancellations, or emergencies.
For worldwide locations, think about PGA Sompo’s TravelJOY Plus insurance coverage. You’ll be able to GET IT HERE. Don’t overlook to make use of WORTHIT for a particular inexpensive fee.
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