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How to Plan a Trip to Taiwan? Routes, Costs, Tips & More

Written by Felicia|Updated: 2025-07-22

Planning your first trip to Taiwan? This island is compact, safe, and full of surprises — perfect for travelers looking for a mix of vibrant cities, lush mountains, rich culture, and unforgettable food.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan the perfect Taiwan trip:

In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to organize a smooth and enjoyable Taiwan trip:

  • Where to go and how long to stay
  • When to visit for the best weather
  • How to get in, get around, and find great places to sleep
  • What (and where) to eat
  • Budget expectations and useful local advice

Whether you have a week or two, prefer DIY travel or guided tours, Taiwan offers a travel experience that’s both easy and deeply rewarding.

Visa-free Travel to China:

Starting December 2024, transit travelers from 54 countries can stay for up to 10 days without a visa. Better yet, visitors from France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and several Asian countries enjoy 30-day visa-free stays through 2025.

US, UK, and Canadian passport holders can visit for 6 days visa-free. Learn more details about How to Visit China Without a Visa in 2025>>

Content Preview

  • triangleTop Destinations to Visit in Taiwan
  • triangleHow Many Days to Spend in Taiwan
  • triangleBest Time to Visit Taiwan
  • triangleHow to Get to Taiwan & Where to Start
  • triangleSuggested Itineraries for First-Timers
  • triangleGetting Around Taiwan
  • triangleWhere to Stay in Taiwan
  • triangleWhat to Eat in Taiwan
  • triangleTaiwan Travel Costs & Budget Tips
  • triangleUseful Tips for a Hassle-Free Taiwan Trip
  • triangleTrace Taiwan with Your Local Guide - Asia Odyssey Travel

Top Destinations to Visit in Taiwan

Taiwan may be small, but its charm lies in its warmth, not just the subtropical climate, but the heartfelt hospitality, comforting street food, and laid-back lifestyle.

Taipei 101
Taipei 101
Yehliu Geopark
Yehliu Geopark

Here are the must-visit destinations to get you started:

✔1. Taipei & Surroundings (3–4 Days Recommended)

Taiwan’s capital is your gateway to everything modern, cultural, and tasty. Explore iconic landmarks like Taipei 101, the National Palace Museum, and buzzing night markets like Shilin and Raohe.

Day trips nearby include:

  • Yehliu for its alien-like rock formations
  • Jiufen for nostalgic mountain town vibes
  • Pingxi for sky lantern releases
  • Yangmingshan for hot springs and volcanic trails

✔ Sun Moon Lake - The Heart of the Island

Nestled in central Taiwan, this tranquil lake is famed for its mirror-like waters, biking trails, and indigenous culture. It’s the island’s largest lake and a favorite for couples and nature lovers alike.

National Palace Museum
National Palace Museum
Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake

✔ Alishan - Forest, Sunrise & Mountain Trains

A timeless favorite with its misty mountains, giant cypress trees, and the charming Alishan Forest Railway. Catch the sunrise at Zhushan and sip high-mountain tea at a hillside café.

✔ Tainan - Taiwan’s Historical Capital

Tainan is where tradition lives on. It’s the oldest city in Taiwan, home to centuries-old temples, Dutch forts, and some of the island’s best street food. Come for the history, stay for the taste.

✔ Kaohsiung - Taiwan’s Southern Metropolis

This vibrant port city blends waterfront art, modern architecture, and relaxed vibes. Don’t miss the Pier-2 Art Center, Lotus Pond, and night markets like Liuhe. From Taipei, it’s just 2 hours by high-speed rail.

✔ Kenting - Sun, Sand & Surf at Taiwan’s Tip

Located on the island’s southernmost point, Kenting is all about beaches, coral reefs, and lighthouse views. It’s a popular escape for beachgoers and scooter adventurers.

Alishan Sea of Clouds
Alishan Sea of Clouds
Kenting National Park
Kenting National Park

✔ Hualien & Taroko Gorge - Nature’s Masterpiece (Currently Closed)

Eastern Taiwan is wilder and less developed, with jaw-dropping scenery. Taroko Gorge, a marble-walled canyon carved by rivers, is the crown jewel when open.

Note: As of now (2025,7), much of Taroko National Park is closed due to earthquake damage, so check for updates before planning.

Check out more details with our Taiwan Attractions>>

How Many Days to Spend in Taiwan

Taiwan is compact, well-connected, and surprisingly diverse — which makes it perfect for anything from a short getaway to a longer adventure.

3–5 Days: Quick Taste of Taiwan

Ideal for city lovers or stopovers. Base yourself in Taipei, explore its highlights, and take day trips to Jiufen, Yehliu, or Yangmingshan. You’ll get a great intro to Taiwan’s culture, night markets, and scenic coastlines without rushing too much.

Yangmingshan National Park
Yangmingshan National Park
Jiufen Old Street
Jiufen Old Street

7–10 Days: Classic First-Time Trip

A week lets you see much more. Start in Taipei, then head south to Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and maybe Tainan or Kaohsiung by high-speed rail. You'll experience a good mix of city life, mountains, lakes, and culture.

2 Weeks or More: Deeper Taiwan Discovery

With more time, you can slow down and go beyond the usual route, visit Kenting’s beaches, dive into Tainan’s history, roam Kaohsiung’s art districts, or head east to Hualien and Taroko Gorge (if open). For those who love nature, hiking, hot springs, and local life, 14–16 days is the sweet spot.

Bonus: Some travelers even rent scooters or cars and do a full circle around the island in 2–3 weeks. It’s the ultimate Taiwan road trip!

Best Time to Visit Taiwan

Thanks to its subtropical climate, the island is generally warm and travel-friendly year-round. The most comfortable time to visit Taiwan is from October to April, when the weather is cooler, more stable, and free from the intense summer heat and typhoons.

Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake
Sister Ponds in Alishan Forest Park
Sister Ponds in Alishan Forest Park

The best months are October and November. It's relatively dry, pleasantly warm (but not hot), and ideal for exploring most parts of the island, from cities and mountains to the coast.

  • March to May: Expect mild weather, clear sky and blooming flowers, especially cherry blossom.
  • June to August: It’s hot, humid, and the season of typhoon. Avoid southern Tainan and Kaohsiung, and head to the mountains.
  • September to November: Golden Time for first timers. Whole Taiwan is dry and comfortable for both outdoor activities and cultural experience.
  • December to February: Southern part like Tainan, Kaohsiung and Kenting is warm and cozy. Northern Taipei is rainy and relatively colder.

Learn more details and tips with our Taiwan Weather & Best Time to Visit Taiwan>>

How to Get to Taiwan & Where to Start

Flying into Taiwan

95% international travelers fly into Taiwan.

Taipei Taoyuan Airport
Taipei Taoyuan Airport
Kaohsiung International Airport
Kaohsiung International Airport

There are two major international gateways:

✔Taoyuan International Airport (TPE): Located just outside Taipei, this is Taiwan’s main international hub with direct flights from North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, and Oceania. It’s the best choice for first-time visitors.

✔Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH): Located in the south, Kaohsiung also serves some international routes, mostly from East and Southeast Asia. It’s a good option if you’re planning to start in the south and travel northward.

If you're flying in from nearby cities like Hong Kong, Tokyo, Bangkok, or Seoul, you'll find plenty of short-haul flight options to both cities.

Where to Start Your Taiwan Trip

Most travelers begin their journey in Taipei, the capital city. It offers:

  • Easy airport access via MRT and buses
  • A wide range of accommodations and food
  • Great public transport and day trip options
  • A natural north-to-south route that connects seamlessly to other top destinations like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, Tainan, and Kaohsiung

If you're doing a round-island itinerary, you can start in Taipei and finish in Kaohsiung, or even return to Taipei via Taiwan’s efficient High-Speed Rail (HSR) or local trains.

Night View of Taipei 101, Taiwan
Night View of Taipei 101, Taiwan
Cijin Ferry
Cijin Ferry

Suggested Itineraries for First-Timers

For first-time visitors, most travelers choose one of two popular routes: a 10-day counterclockwise island loop, or a 8-day north-to-south journey from Taipei to Kaohsiung.

10-Day Counterclockwise Island Loop (Full Taiwan Experience)

This classic route takes you from Taipei in the north, down the west coast, around the southern beaches, up the scenic east coast, and back to Taipei.

Day 1–4: Taipei & Jiufen (city sights, street food, culture)

Day 5: Sun Moon Lake (biking, lake cruise, nature)

Day 6: Alishan (mountains, forest train, sunrise)

Day 7: Kaohsiung (harbor city, Pier-2 Art Center, night markets)

Day 8: Taitung (Qixingtan beach, Duoliang Railway Station)

Day 9: Hualien & Taroko Gorge (if open) (hiking, marble canyons)

Day 10: Return to Taipei

Good For: Travelers with 10+ days who want to experience Taiwan’s full variety — cities, mountains, lakes, beaches, and culture.

Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake
Alishan Forest Park
Alishan Forest Park

7-Day Taipei to Kaohsiung Journey (Efficient & Rich in Highlights)

If you have a week, stick to the west side of the island, where high-speed rail makes travel smooth and efficient. This route is packed with iconic sights but doesn’t feel rushed.

Day 1–3: Taipei & day trips (like Jiufen or Yehliu)

Day 4: Sun Moon Lake

Day 5: Alishan

Day 6: Tainan

Day 7: Kaohsiung

Day 8: Kaohsiung to Taipei & fly out

Good For: First-time visitors with limited time who want a classic and comfortable route from north to south.

Only 4–5 days? Stay in Taipei and take day trips to Jiufen, Yangmingshan, or Pingxi.

Have 2 weeks or more? Fine more routes options with our Taiwan Itineraries>>

Getting Around Taiwan

Taiwan is incredibly easy to travel around. You can zip between cities on high-speed trains, cruise through mountain roads on scenic railways, or hop around town by metro or scooter.

Taiwan High Speed Rail Train
Taiwan High Speed Rail Train
Taiwan TRA Puyuma Train
Taiwan TRA Puyuma Train

Here’s how to get around:

✔ High-Speed Rail (HSR) – Fastest Way Along the West Coast

Taiwan’s High-Speed Rail runs along the western corridor from Taipei to Kaohsiung (1.5-2 hours), stopping at major cities like Taichung, Chiayi, and Tainan.

✔ Taiwan Railway (TRA) – Slower, Scenic & More Coverage

TRA trains cover the entire island, including the east coast Hualien and Taitung, mountain regions like Alishan and Taroko, and small towns.

✔ Intercity Buses – Budget-Friendly & Comfortable

Long-distance buses are cheap, clean, and reliable, with routes connecting most cities and towns. UBus, Kuo-Kuang, and Ho-Hsin are some popular companies.

✔ Metro (MRT) – City Travel Made Easy

Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taichung, and Taoyuan have efficient metro systems with English signage and stored-value cards.

✔ Scooter or Car Rental – Explore Off-the-Beaten-Path

In places like Kenting, Taitung, or offshore islands, renting a scooter or car gives you the freedom to explore. You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent legally.

For specific routes like Taipei to Kaohsiung or Kaohsiung to Tainan, check our Taiwan Transportation Guide>>

Taiwan Ubus
Taiwan Ubus
Pier-2 Art Center, Kaohsiung
Pier-2 Art Center, Kaohsiung

Where to Stay in Taiwan

When travel to Taiwan, most people choose to stay in big cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung. Part of them stay in scenic area like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan and Kenting.

  • Taipei (3–4 Nights)

Taipei is your base for food, culture, shopping, and day trips to nearby attractions.

Best Areas:

Ximending – Youthful, fun, close to shopping and night markets

Zhongshan or Da’an – Stylish, walkable, full of cafés and restaurants

Taipei Main Station – Great for transportation links

  • Sun Moon Lake (1 Night)

One night is enough to enjoy a lakeside bike ride, boat cruise, or quiet sunrise. Stay in Shuishe or Ita Thao village for easy lake access

  • Chaiyi (1 Night)

One night for the day trip to Alishan. Alishan hotels are limited and expensive.

  • Tainan & Kaohsiung (2-3 Night)

The two are close to each other with just one-hour drive. You can stay in one place and explore 2 cities.

In Tainan, choose West Central District (close to major historical sites) and Chihkan Tower area.

In Kaohsiung, stay close to Pier-2 Art Center and Love River, or Zuoying area (close to Lotus Pond and HSR Station)

Pier-2 Art Center, Kaohsiung
Pier-2 Art Center, Kaohsiung
Shi Men Ting, Taipei of Taiwan
Shi Men Ting, Taipei of Taiwan

What to Eat in Taiwan

If you come to Taiwan and don’t eat your way through it, did you even visit?

Food is a part of daily life here. From street snacks to traditional comfort food, Taiwan is a paradise for food lovers, and every city has its own specialties.

Don’t worry about looking for the best restaurant. Often, the tastiest bites are served in night markets or humble corner shops.

Night Markets – Where the Magic Happens

Taiwan’s night markets are a feast for the senses. Just follow the smell of sizzling garlic, and you’ll find streets lined with food stalls, games, and crowds of locals.

Find more night markets in our Taiwan Night Market Guide>>

Famous Taiwanese Dishes You Must Try

Beef Noodle Soup (牛肉麵) – Taiwan’s national comfort food. Rich broth, tender beef, chewy noodles.

Lu Rou Fan (滷肉飯) – Braised pork belly over rice. Simple but deeply satisfying.

Gua Bao (刈包) – Like a Taiwanese hamburger: soft bun stuffed with pork belly, pickles, and peanuts.

Find more delicious dishes in our Taiwan Food Guide

Taiwan Food
Taiwan Food
Taiwan Food
Taiwan Food

Taiwan Travel Costs & Budget Tips

Traveling in Taiwan is surprisingly affordable, especially when compared to Japan or Korea.

If you choose to travel independently and use public transportation, costs are generally quite reasonable. On average, you can enjoy a good travel experience for around $100 USD per person per day. With more experience, smart planning, and solid pre-trip research, it's possible to spend even less while still traveling comfortably.

If you prefer a guided group tour, either due to language barriers or not wanting to deal with the complexity of local transport, expect to pay around $120–200 USD per day. These packages typically include:

  • A comfortable private coach
  • Clean and safe hotel accommodation
  • Entrance tickets to major attractions
  • Thoughtfully planned routes and sightseeing schedules

Note: Meals are usually not included, except for hotel breakfasts.

Taiwan High Speed Rail Train Business Car
Taiwan High Speed Rail Train Business Car
Taiwan Food
Taiwan Food

Budget Tips for Taiwan

Use an EasyCard or iPASS – These transport cards save time and give small fare discounts on MRTs, buses, and even convenience stores.

Eat like a local – Night markets and small eateries offer delicious meals for just a few US dollars.

Take advantage of Taiwan’s free attractions – Many temples, nature spots, and museums have free entry or very low fees.

Use the TRA wisely – TRA is affordable, scenic, and covers most parts of the island. For short-distance travel or if you’re not in a rush, it’s a great alternative to the high-speed rail. You can even use an EasyCard or iPASS to tap in and out without buying individual tickets.

For more details, please turn to our Taiwan Trip Cost Guide>>

Sun Moon Lake Cruise
Sun Moon Lake Cruise
Alishan Forest Park
Alishan Forest Park

Useful Tips for a Hassle-Free Taiwan Trip

Taiwan is one of the safest, cleanest, and most traveler-friendly destinations in Asia. Still, a few smart tips can go a long way in making your trip even smoother:

Visa & Entry: Many nationalities (including the US, EU, UK, Canada, Australia, Japan, etc.) enjoy visa-free entry for stays of 14 to 90 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months.

Language & Communication: Mandarin Chinese is the official language. English is widely used in tourist areas, but less so in rural regions.

Money & Payments: Taiwan is mostly a cash-based society, especially in markets, small eateries, and rural areas. Credit cards are accepted in hotels, chain stores, and department stores.

Internet & SIM Cards: Free public Wi-Fi is common in cities and MRT stations. For convenience, pick up a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi at the airport.

Essential Apps: Useful for public transport, like EasyCard, Taiwan Railway app, etc.

Taiwan Food
Taiwan Food
Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake

Trace Taiwan with Your Local Guide - Asia Odyssey Travel

Ready to see the best of Taiwan, from north to south? Asia Odyssey Travel is here to guide your journey around the island. With expert local partners and well-planned routes, we make your Taiwan trip smooth, exciting, and unforgettable.

We offer carefully designed tour packages and in-depth travel guides, including:

Popular Tour Packages: Taiwan Group Tours, Taiwan Tours, Taiwan Family Tours, Taiwan Food Tours

Useful Travel Guide: Taiwan Night Markets, Taiwan Temples, Taiwan Beaches, Taiwan Mountain, Taiwan Food, Taiwan Transportation

Various Destinations: Taipei, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, Kaohsiung

Classic Itineraries: Taiwan Itinerary, Taipei Itinerary, Taichung Itinerary, Kaohsiung Itinerary

If you have any questions about this article, please contact us by submitting the following form and we'll immediately get back to you.

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