Taiwan’s Top Destinations, Best Attractions, Must-Try Foods, Booking Stays & Tour Packages, Culture, and Travel Tips

Taiwan’s Top Destinations, Best Attractions, Must-Try Foods, Booking Stays & Tour Packages, Culture, Travel Tips

Why Visit Taiwan: Culture, Cuisine, and Natural Wonders in Harmony

Small in size but immense in experience, Taiwan is a destination where nature, culture, and urban charm collide. From the towering cliffs of Taroko Gorge to the electric buzz of Taipei’s night markets, Taiwan offers a rich and balanced travel experience for explorers, foodies, and culture-seekers alike.

Stunning Natural Landscapes

Taiwan’s landscapes are a nature lover’s dream. The island is home to dense rainforests, dramatic mountains, thermal hot springs, and sun-drenched beaches.

Taroko Gorge: A marble-walled canyon with hiking trails, suspension bridges, and waterfalls.
Sun Moon Lake: Taiwan’s largest lake, surrounded by cycling paths and misty peaks.
Alishan Mountains: Famous for its sunrise view over a sea of clouds and scenic forest railway.
Kenting National Park: Tropical beaches, coral reefs, and coastal cliffs at Taiwan’s southern tip.
Yangmingshan National Park: Volcanic terrain and hot springs just outside Taipei.

Warm Culture and Traditional Roots

Taiwanese culture is a unique fusion of Chinese heritage, indigenous traditions, and Japanese influences, all blended with a modern democratic spirit. Locals are famously welcoming and helpful—making it an especially safe and friendly destination for solo and first-time travelers.

Temples, festivals, and tea culture remain central to everyday life. Don’t miss:

Longshan Temple (Taipei): A beautifully preserved Buddhist temple that’s active and spiritually vibrant.
Lukang Old Town: A heritage town showcasing preserved architecture and traditional artisan shops.
Indigenous Villages: Particularly in Taitung and Hualien, offering cultural performances and tribal crafts.

World-Famous Cuisine

Taiwan is a culinary paradise. Its food scene combines the bold flavors of Chinese, Japanese, and Southeast Asian cuisines—served everywhere from Michelin-starred restaurants to buzzing night markets.

Beef Noodle Soup: Taiwan’s unofficial national dish, slow-cooked and deeply savory.
Lu Rou Fan (Braised Pork Rice): Comfort food at its finest—flavorful minced pork over rice.
Bubble Tea: Invented in Taiwan, this drink is now a global favorite.
Stinky Tofu: An iconic (and divisive!) fermented street food with a crispy shell and bold aroma.
Gua Bao: Fluffy buns stuffed with pork belly, pickled greens, and crushed peanuts.

Popular night markets include Shilin (Taipei), Liuhe (Kaohsiung), and Fengjia (Taichung)—each a food-lover’s playground.

Urban Sophistication Meets Local Charm

Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taichung, and Tainan offer dynamic cityscapes without the overwhelming crowds of other Asian megacities. Think modern MRT systems, Wi-Fi hotspots, and art museums beside temples, traditional bakeries, and family-run tea shops.

Taipei: Known for Taipei 101, high-tech innovation, and a rich food culture.
Tainan: Taiwan’s oldest city, steeped in tradition, temples, and slow-cooked cuisine.
Kaohsiung: A coastal port city with art districts, harbor views, and relaxed urban energy.

Wellness and Outdoor Recreation

Outdoor enthusiasts will find endless opportunities to hike, cycle, soak, and explore. Taiwan’s vast network of well-maintained trails and hot spring resorts make it a perfect destination for wellness and nature retreats.

Hot Springs: Beitou (Taipei), Jiaoxi (Yilan), and Guanziling (Tainan) are among the best spots.
Cycling Routes: The Sun Moon Lake loop and the East Rift Valley route are scenic and popular with travelers.
Hiking Trails: From Elephant Mountain (easy) to Hehuanshan and Yushan (Taiwan’s highest peak), there’s a trail for every fitness level.

Affordability & Travel Convenience

Compared to other developed countries in East Asia, Taiwan is relatively affordable. Travelers can enjoy:

Street meals for under $3
Comfortable hostels from $15/night
Fast and efficient public transportation via MRT, trains, and buses

Taiwan also offers visa-free entry to many nationalities, efficient airports, and extensive tourist services in English and Mandarin.

Traveler Motivations: Why People Keep Coming Back

Culinary Exploration: Sampling unique flavors from night markets and rural villages to gourmet restaurants.
Nature Escapes: Escaping to the mountains, forests, and coastlines for wellness and solitude.
Cultural Discovery: Learning about local beliefs, attending colorful festivals, and walking centuries-old streets.
Adventure: Surfing in Taitung, hiking remote trails, or paragliding over rice terraces.
Digital Nomad Appeal: Fast internet, a safe environment, and great coffee scenes make Taiwan ideal for remote workers.

Top Destinations & Must-See Attractions in Taiwan

Though small in size, Taiwan offers a wide array of breathtaking attractions and vibrant cities that make it one of Asia’s most compelling travel destinations. From dramatic gorges and misty mountains to lively night markets and heritage towns, here are the top destinations and must-see spots that should be on every traveler’s itinerary.

Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Taiwan

Taipei: The capital city is a dynamic blend of high-tech skyscrapers, ancient temples, and the world-famous Taipei 101. Explore night markets, museums, and nearby hot springs.
Taroko National Park: Home to the awe-inspiring Taroko Gorge, this park features marble canyons, lush forests, and scenic hiking trails.
Sun Moon Lake: A serene mountain lake perfect for cycling, boating, and lakeside retreats. It’s a favorite honeymoon and nature getaway.
Alishan: Famous for its tea plantations, cedar forests, and sunrise train journeys that pass through cloud-covered peaks.
Tainan: Taiwan’s oldest city, rich in temples, colonial history, and traditional street food.
Kaohsiung: A southern port city with an artistic flair, modern waterfronts, and attractions like the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum.
Taichung: A growing cultural hub with creative parks, modern museums, and a gateway to nearby mountains.
Kenting National Park: Located at Taiwan’s southern tip, this tropical park offers beaches, coral reefs, and outdoor adventure.
Hualien: A relaxed coastal town that serves as a base for exploring Taroko Gorge and Taiwan’s eastern wilderness.
Jiufen: A charming hillside village northeast of Taipei, famous for its old tea houses, lantern-lit alleys, and views over the sea.

Top 10 Must-See Attractions in Taiwan

Taipei 101: Once the tallest building in the world, Taipei 101 offers panoramic views, luxury shopping, and green-certified design.
Shilin Night Market (Taipei): The largest night market in Taiwan, packed with iconic snacks and trendy street fashion.
Taroko Gorge: Hike the Shakadang or Zhuilu Old Trail for views of turquoise rivers and towering cliffs.
Sun Moon Lake Ropeway: This scenic cable car connects the lake to the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village.
Alishan Forest Railway: A nostalgic train ride through misty mountains, especially magical during cherry blossom season.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (Taipei): A majestic monument surrounded by gardens and museums.
Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum (Kaohsiung): A massive complex with the world’s tallest seated bronze Buddha.
Rainbow Village (Taichung): A once-abandoned settlement transformed into a living piece of art by a retired soldier-turned-artist.
Jiufen Old Street: A nostalgic blend of teahouses, lanterns, and local sweets—said to have inspired Miyazaki’s *Spirited Away*.
National Palace Museum (Taipei): One of the largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts, spanning over 8,000 years of history.

Best Time to Visit Taiwan

Taiwan has a subtropical climate in the north and tropical in the south. Generally, the best times to visit are:

Spring (March–May): Pleasant weather, cherry blossoms, and outdoor festivals.
Autumn (September–November): Cool, dry, and ideal for hiking and sightseeing.
Summer (June–August): Hot and humid with typhoon risk, but great for beachgoers and surfing in Kenting or Taitung.
Winter (December–February): Mild in the south, cooler in the north and mountains. Great for hot spring visits.

Transportation & Getting Around

High-Speed Rail (HSR)

The Taiwan High-Speed Rail runs along the west coast from Taipei to Kaohsiung, cutting travel time dramatically. It’s fast, clean, and efficient.

Local Trains

Taiwan Railways (TRA): Connects all major towns and scenic areas. Slower but scenic and economical.

Metro Systems

Taipei MRT: User-friendly, punctual, and covers most of Taipei’s attractions.
Kaohsiung MRT: Serves the city center and nearby attractions.

Buses & Car Rentals

Long-distance buses connect cities and towns with comfort and affordability.
Car rental is ideal for exploring Alishan, Taroko, or East Coast regions at your own pace.

EasyCard & iPASS

These rechargeable cards work on MRTs, buses, trains, and even convenience stores—highly recommended for hassle-free travel.

Essential Travel Info & Local Culture in Taiwan

To get the most out of your trip to Taiwan, it’s important to understand both the practical logistics of travel and the cultural nuances that make the country so distinct. Taiwan is known for its warmth, safety, and orderliness—making it one of Asia’s most accessible destinations for international travelers.

International Airports & Entry Points

Taoyuan International Airport (TPE): The main international hub located about 40 km from Taipei. It offers high-speed rail, buses, and MRT access.
Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH): The southern gateway, ideal for exploring Kaohsiung and Kenting.
Taichung International Airport (RMQ): A regional airport serving central Taiwan with growing international connections.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Citizens of over 60 countries—including the US, Canada, EU, Australia, and Japan—can enter Taiwan visa-free for stays ranging from 14 to 90 days.
For longer stays, apply for a visitor or resident visa through TECO (Taipei Economic and Cultural Office).
Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.

Currency & Banking

Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (TWD or NT$). As of recent rates, US$1 ≈ NT$30–32.
ATMs: Widely available. Machines in 7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and post offices accept foreign cards.
Credit Cards: Accepted in major hotels, stores, and restaurants. Smaller vendors prefer cash.
Currency Exchange: Available at banks, airport counters, and authorized money changers. Avoid unlicensed exchangers.

Mobile Connectivity & SIM Cards

Main Providers: Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and FarEasTone.
Where to Buy: Airport kiosks, convenience stores, and telecom branches. Tourist SIM cards offer data and call/text bundles for 3, 5, or 10 days.
eSIM options: Available and compatible with most unlocked devices.
Wi-Fi: Widely available in hotels, cafés, MRT stations, and public areas.

Language Tips

Mandarin Chinese is the official language, though many people also speak Taiwanese Hokkien and Hakka. English is widely used in major cities and among younger generations, especially in tourism-related businesses.

Useful Phrases:

Hello: Nǐ hǎo (你好)
Thank you: Xiè xiè (謝謝)
Yes / No: Shì / Bù shì (是 / 不是)
How much?: Duō shǎo qián? (多少錢？)
Goodbye: Zài jiàn (再見)

Local Customs & Etiquette

Do:

Remove your shoes before entering someone’s home or traditional accommodations.
Use both hands when giving or receiving items like gifts or business cards.
Wait to be seated at formal meals and allow elders to eat first.
Say “不好意思” (bù hǎo yì si) as a polite “excuse me.”

Don’t:

Don’t speak loudly in public or on public transportation.
Don’t point at people with your index finger—it’s more polite to use your whole hand.
Don’t stick chopsticks vertically into a bowl of rice—it resembles a funeral offering.

Health & Safety Tips

Healthcare: Taiwan has excellent public and private hospitals. For non-residents, costs are reasonable by international standards.
Vaccinations: No special vaccinations required, but standard shots (Hep A/B, Typhoid) are recommended.
Water: Tap water is technically safe in many areas, but drinking bottled or boiled water is preferred.
Pharmacies: Easy to find and well-stocked. Many have English-speaking staff.
Emergency Number: Dial 110 for police, 119 for fire/ambulance.

Common Travel Scams & Safety Tips

Taiwan is one of the safest countries in Asia with extremely low crime rates. Nonetheless, keep the following in mind:

Pickpocketing is rare but possible in crowded markets or train stations—keep your valuables secure.
Be cautious with unsolicited tour guides or taxi drivers quoting fixed fares—opt for metered taxis or use ride-hailing apps like Uber or LINE Taxi.
Traffic can be fast and dense—always use crosswalks and pedestrian signals.

Religion & Spiritual Sites

Taiwan’s religious life is a blend of Buddhism, Taoism, Confucianism, and folk religions. You’ll encounter elaborate temples filled with incense, statues, and red lanterns—especially in Tainan, Lukang, and Taipei.

Respect temple etiquette: Dress modestly, speak quietly, and avoid flash photography during ceremonies.
Popular temples: Longshan Temple (Taipei), Confucius Temple (Tainan), Bao’an Temple, and Ciyou Temple.

Sustainable & Responsible Travel

Recycle and dispose of waste properly—Taiwan takes recycling seriously.
Use reusable utensils and water bottles—many public fountains are available for refills.
Support local businesses, artisans, and eco-tours.
Respect wildlife and natural parks by staying on marked trails and not feeding animals.

Food, Stays & Booking a Tour in Taiwan

Taiwan’s travel charm extends far beyond its scenic landscapes and friendly cities. It’s a country where you can feast like royalty on a budget, stay comfortably whether you’re a backpacker or luxury traveler, and book memorable tours with ease. This guide will help you plan how to eat, sleep, and explore in Taiwan with confidence.

Must-Try Taiwanese Dishes

Beef Noodle Soup (牛肉麵): Taiwan’s national dish—slow-cooked beef in rich broth with hand-pulled noodles.
Lu Rou Fan (滷肉飯): Braised pork belly over rice—a savory comfort food found everywhere from night markets to Michelin-rated eateries.
Oyster Omelette (蚵仔煎): A gooey, savory dish topped with sweet-sour sauce, popular in night markets.
Stinky Tofu (臭豆腐): Fermented tofu, crispy outside and soft inside—bold and beloved.
Gua Bao: Steamed buns filled with pork belly, pickled greens, and crushed peanuts—a Taiwanese take on sliders.
Bubble Tea (珍珠奶茶): Invented in Taichung, this sweet drink with chewy tapioca balls is a must-try in its homeland.
Pineapple Cake (鳳梨酥): A buttery pastry with a tangy-sweet filling—popular as a souvenir.

Where to Eat

Night Markets

Shilin Night Market (Taipei): Taiwan’s most famous, packed with street eats, snacks, and shopping.
Fengjia Night Market (Taichung): Huge variety and good prices; try the cheese potato and giant fried chicken.
Raohe Night Market (Taipei): Known for black pepper buns baked in tandoor ovens and barbecued skewers.

Local Favorites & Hidden Gems

Dintaifung (鼎泰豐): Famed for its xiao long bao (soup dumplings). Visit the original store in Taipei for the full experience.
Traditional Breakfast Shops: Try soy milk, youtiao (fried dough), and dan bing (egg crepe) for a delicious start to your day.
Rural Tea Houses: Especially in Maokong or Alishan—enjoy local oolong tea with stunning mountain views.

Where to Stay in Taiwan

Budget (under $30/night)

Meander Taipei Hostel: Modern, social, and centrally located.
Star Hostel Taichung: Cozy and minimalistic with strong eco vibes.
Backpacker 41 (Tainan): Basic but clean, with helpful staff and good Wi-Fi.

Mid-Range ($40–$90/night)

Hotel Relax Series (Taipei): Stylish city hotel chains with good breakfast and convenient MRT access.
Chateau de Chine (Kaohsiung): Great value with artistic decor and local flair.
Sun Moon Lake Hotel: Serene lakeside property with sunrise views and bike rentals.

Luxury ($100+)

Mandarin Oriental Taipei: Elegant rooms and world-class service in the heart of the capital.
The Lalu (Sun Moon Lake): Iconic Zen-inspired resort with infinity pools and lakefront dining.
Silks Place Taroko: Nestled in a national park—ideal for luxury seekers who love the outdoors.

Booking a Tour in Taiwan

Popular Tour Types

Cultural Tours: Explore temples, tea plantations, and old towns like Jiufen and Tainan with expert guides.
Food Tours: Night market hopping, cooking classes, and farm-to-table experiences in Taipei, Kaohsiung, or Yilan.
Nature & Hiking Tours: Taroko Gorge treks, Alishan sunrise tours, or Hehuanshan snow trips in winter.
Cycling Tours: Particularly popular around Sun Moon Lake and Taiwan’s east coast.

Where to Book

Online Platforms:Klook, GetYourGuide, and Viator offer well-reviewed, English-speaking options.
Hotel Front Desks: Many hotels and hostels can help book local tours, sometimes at a discount.
Visitor Centers: Especially in scenic areas like Alishan or Taroko, where rangers provide free guidance or arrange certified guides.

Tips for Booking Tours

Always check inclusions—meals, insurance, gear, entrance fees.
Small group or private tours offer more flexibility and interaction.
English-speaking guides are widely available but may be limited in remote areas—confirm beforehand.
Weather can change quickly in the mountains—check forecasts before booking hikes.

Taiwan

Whether you’re sipping oolong tea at a mountaintop retreat or bargaining for skewers at a neon-lit night market, Taiwan is full of warm surprises. It’s a destination that blends the old and new, the quiet and the electric, all while making you feel right at home. Come for the food, stay for the people, and leave with memories that will make you want to return again and again.

Whether you want to marvel at city skylines, hike forested peaks, relax by a tranquil lake, or explore cultural treasures, Taiwan is packed with destinations and attractions that surprise and delight. With its excellent infrastructure, safety, and hospitality, getting around and discovering Taiwan is as enjoyable as the destinations themselves.

Whether you’re climbing through misty mountain passes or ordering bubble tea in a bustling city lane, knowing the ins and outs of Taiwan’s customs and travel logistics will make your journey smoother and more enriching. Taiwan is a country where tradition and innovation meet—and it welcomes curious, respectful travelers with open arms and endless discoveries.

Whether you’re savoring night market delicacies, sipping tea in the mountains, or booking a hike through a marble gorge, Taiwan serves up diverse experiences with grace and ease. It’s one of those rare places where gourmet dining and grassroots culture coexist, where luxurious resorts and affordable homestays both feel welcoming. Plan well, explore openly, and Taiwan will reward you at every turn.