Craving a travel experience that blends culture, nature, and flavor all in one?
From my experience through Taiwan’s vibrant city streets, serene mountains, and peaceful coastlines, I can confidently share the best Taiwan things to do.
In this blog, you’ll find insights into iconic landmarks, scenic day trips, and local food experiences that truly stood out to me.
Having visited the island extensively, I’ll offer personal tips, recommendations, and practical advice to help you navigate Taiwan smoothly and make the most of your visit.
Let’s step into an immersive and unforgettable journey across this incredible island.
Why is Taiwan Worth Visiting?
Taiwan is a vibrant and welcoming destination that offers a mix of modern cities and natural beauty.
The island is easy to visit, with efficient transport connecting bustling streets, night markets, and serene mountains or beaches.
Its landscapes are diverse, from lush forests and high mountains to calm lakes and scenic coastlines.
Food is a highlight, with street stalls and small restaurants serving everything from dumplings and oyster omelets to bubble tea.
Temples, local festivals, and traditional practices provide a glimpse into Taiwan’s culture and history.
Friendly locals make it easy to feel comfortable while experiencing. Overall, Taiwan offers a variety of memorable experiences for any traveler.
Taiwan Travel Essentials (Read Before You Plan)
Before you start roaming in Taiwan, it helps to know a few basics. These necessities make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
Best Time to Visit Taiwan: Taiwan has a subtropical climate. Spring and autumn offer comfortable weather and clear skies.
Visa & Entry Requirements: Most travelers need a visa or entry permit. It’s important to check the rules for your country before booking your trip.
Getting Around (MRT, High-Speed Rail, EasyCard): Cities have easy-to-use metro systems, and high-speed rail connects major cities quickly. The EasyCard works for most transport and saves time.
Budget Expectations (Daily Cost Breakdown): Daily costs vary depending on travel style. Street food and public transport make it easy to travel on a budget, while hotels and attractions may increase costs.
How Many Days You Need in Taiwan: A short trip of 3-5 days lets you see Taipei and nearby attractions. Spending one to two weeks allows you to visit multiple regions comfortably.
Planning ahead with these important things will help you make the most of your Taiwan trip.
Best Taiwan Things to Do and Places
Taiwan blends modern attractions, historic landmarks, and scenic views, showcasing its culture, architecture, and landscapes.
1. Visit Taipei 101 For Skyline Views
Taipei 101 is one of the tallest buildings in the world. Its observation deck provides sweeping views of the city and mountains.
Inside, visitors can visit shops, restaurants, and see the massive wind damper that stabilizes the tower.
2. Hike Elephant Mountain For The Best City Viewpoint
Elephant Mountain is a short but popular hike in Taipei. The trail leads to lookout points offering incredible views of Taipei 101 and the city skyline.
It’s a favorite for sunrise and sunset photography and an easy urban escape.
3. Visit Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall And Its Grand Plaza
This historical landmark honors former President Chiang Kai-shek. The grand plaza features gardens, ponds, and walking paths.
Visitors can watch the changing of the guard ceremony and visit exhibits detailing Taiwan’s history and political heritage.
4. See Historical Treasures At The National Palace Museum
The National Palace Museum houses one of the largest collections of Chinese art and artifacts worldwide.
Visitors can view paintings, ceramics, jade carvings, and ancient relics while learning about centuries of Chinese history in a thoughtfully curated space.
5. Experience Local Worship At Longshan Temple
Longshan Temple is a centuries-old temple where locals come to pray and perform rituals.
Its intricate architecture, statues, and carvings showcase Taiwanese religious culture, making it a must-visit site to experience the island’s spiritual traditions firsthand.
6. Walk Through Jiufen Old Street In The Evening
Jiufen Old Street is a historic mining town with narrow alleyways and lanterns. You can stroll past tea houses, street food stalls, and souvenir shops.
The evening lights make the town feel lively while offering views of the nearby mountains and ocean.
7. Release A Sky Lantern In Shifen Village
Shifen Village is famous for its sky lanterns. Visitors can write wishes on the lanterns and release them over the railway tracks.
The village also has waterfalls and walking trails, making it a relaxing spot to experience local culture and scenic beauty.
8. Visit Shifen Waterfall For Nature Views
Shifen Waterfall, known as the “Little Niagara of Taiwan,” offers a beautiful natural setting.
The surrounding forest and walking trails let visitors enjoy the flowing water and greenery. It’s perfect for photos, short hikes, and a peaceful break from the city.
9. Relax In Beitou Hot Springs
Beitou Hot Springs is a popular spot for soaking in mineral-rich waters. The area has public and private baths, museums, and walking paths.
Visitors can enjoy a calming experience while learning about the history of the hot springs in this mountainous region.
10. Ride The Maokong Gondola Over The Tea Hills
The Maokong Gondola takes you above scenic tea plantations and mountain trails. At the top, you can visit tea houses, enjoy panoramic views, and taste local teas.
It’s an easy way to combine sightseeing, photography, and a cultural experience in one trip.
11. Eat Your Way Through Shilin Night Market
Shilin Night Market is one of Taipei’s largest and most famous night markets.
You can sample a variety of Taiwanese street foods, from fried chicken to bubble tea, while visiting shops selling clothes, souvenirs, and local snacks in a lively atmosphere.
12. Try Local Street Food At Raohe Night Market
Raohe Night Market offers a mix of traditional foods and small local shops. Visitors can enjoy pork pepper buns, stinky tofu, and fresh fruit drinks.
The market’s vibrant energy, colorful lights, and narrow lanes make it a memorable culinary experience.
13. Taste Xiaolongbao At Din Tai Fung
Din Tai Fung is a globally recognized restaurant famous for its xiaolongbao, or soup dumplings. Each dumpling is carefully made with thin dough and flavorful filling.
Visitors can watch chefs prepare them while enjoying a clean and comfortable dining environment.
14. Have A Traditional Taiwanese Breakfast Experience
A traditional Taiwanese breakfast includes soy milk, fried dough sticks, rice rolls, and pastries. Small local shops serve these dishes early in the morning.
Trying them gives insight into daily local life and offers a filling start before experiencing the city.
15. Walk Through Ximending Shopping District At Night
Ximending is a lively shopping and entertainment district in Taipei. At night, the area is full of neon lights, street performers, and food stalls.
Visitors can shop for clothes, accessories, and souvenirs while enjoying the dynamic city atmosphere and local snacks.
16. Hike Through Taroko Gorge National Park
Taroko Gorge is a stunning natural park with marble cliffs, rivers, and forested trails.
Visitors can hike paths of varying difficulty, see suspension bridges, and enjoy scenic viewpoints. It’s ideal for nature lovers and anyone who enjoys fresh mountain air.
17. Cycle Around Sun Moon Lake Scenic Route
Sun Moon Lake offers a scenic cycling path around its clear waters. Cyclists can enjoy mountain and lake views, small local cafes, and peaceful stops along the way.
The route is suitable for beginners and experienced riders seeking a relaxing experience.
18. Watch Sunrise In Alishan Forest Area
Alishan Forest is famous for its mountain railways, forest trails, and sunrise viewpoints.
Visitors can wake early to see the sun rise above clouds, visit walking paths, and enjoy the fresh mountain air. It’s a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts.
19. Visit Kenting National Park For Beaches And Water Activities
Kenting National Park in southern Taiwan is known for its beaches, coral reefs, and water sports.
Visitors can swim, snorkel, or simply relax on the sand. The park also offers walking trails and scenic viewpoints along the coastline.
20. Visit Yangmingshan National Park Trails
Yangmingshan National Park features hot springs, flower fields, and hiking trails.
Visitors can walk through volcanic landscapes, enjoy panoramic city and mountain views, and see seasonal blooms. It’s a refreshing escape from the city without traveling far.
21. Visit Houtong Cat Village And Interact With Cats
Houtong Cat Village is a small former mining town now home to many friendly cats.
Visitors can stroll through streets lined with shops, cafes, and cat sculptures, feeding and playing with cats while enjoying the quaint village atmosphere.
22. Walk Along Dihua Street For Culture And Local Goods
Dihua Street in Taipei is known for its historic buildings and traditional shops.
Visitors can visit herbal stores, tea houses, and craft shops, experiencing the city’s heritage while buying souvenirs or sampling local snacks along the lively streets.
23. See Colorful Murals At Rainbow Village In Taichung
Rainbow Village is a small area covered in vibrant murals painted by a local artist.
Walking through, visitors can see creative artwork on walls, enjoy photo opportunities, and learn about the village’s history and its efforts to preserve the neighborhood.
24. Visit Lotus Pond And Dragon Tiger Pagodas In Kaohsiung
Lotus Pond features scenic walking paths, temples, and iconic pagodas.
The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas stand at the water’s edge, inviting visitors to enter through the dragon and exit through the tiger. It’s a cultural and picturesque experience.
25. Visit Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum Complex
Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum is a large Buddhist complex with halls, gardens, and a massive Buddha statue.
Visitors can visit exhibitions, learn about Buddhist culture, and walk through peaceful grounds, experiencing the spiritual and architectural significance of the site.
26. Walk Along Gaomei Wetlands During Sunset
Gaomei Wetlands is a scenic area with boardwalks through tidal flats and reed fields.
Visitors can enjoy walking paths, birdwatching, and the reflection of the sunset on the water, creating a peaceful and photogenic experience near Taichung.
27. Take A Coastal Trip Along the Taitung Shoreline
Taitung’s coastline features rugged cliffs, sandy beaches, and clear waters.
Driving or cycling along the shore gives visitors opportunities to stop at small fishing villages, enjoy local seafood, and take in panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
28. Ride the Taiwan High-Speed Rail For Fast City Travel
The Taiwan High-Speed Rail connects major cities quickly and comfortably.
Travelers can cover long distances in under two hours, enjoying modern trains, convenient stations, and easy access to Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung, and other key destinations.
29. Visit A Tea House Experience In Maokong
Maokong is famous for its tea plantations and scenic gondola rides.
Visitors can relax at a tea house, sample freshly brewed local teas, and enjoy mountain views while learning about tea production and the traditions of Taiwanese tea culture.
30. Try Bubble Tea From Its Place Of Origin
Taiwan is the birthplace of bubble tea, and tasting it locally offers the freshest experience.
Visitors can try classic milk tea with tapioca pearls or experiment with different flavors at specialty shops across Taipei and other cities.
31. Take A Ferry Ride To Cijin Island From Kaohsiung
Cijin Island is a short ferry ride from Kaohsiung. Visitors can visit beaches, seafood markets, and lighthouses while cycling or walking along coastal paths.
The trip offers both scenic ocean views and a relaxing escape from the city.
Best Day Trips from Taipei
Taipei is close to scenic towns, hot springs, and nature spots: enjoy culture, history, and natural beauty just a short trip from the city.
Jiufen and Shifen Day Trip: Stroll Jiufen’s alleys and tea houses, then visit Shifen for lanterns and waterfalls. Enjoy local snacks and capture scenic photos in one cultural and scenic outing.
Beitou Hot Springs Escape: Relax in mineral-rich hot springs, visit parks and museums, and enjoy a calming break from the city’s pace.
Yangmingshan Nature Getaway: Hike trails, see flower fields and volcanic landscapes, and enjoy panoramic city and mountain views in a refreshing natural retreat.
Pingxi Railway Line Experience: Ride the Pingxi Line, release sky lanterns, enjoy scenic views, and visit historic villages while sampling local snacks.
These day trips offer quick escapes from Taipei, letting you experience nature, culture, and history without long travel.
Food Experiences You Should Not Miss in Taiwan
Taiwan is a food lover’s haven: enjoy street snacks, night markets, and local restaurants for a taste of authentic flavors.
Must-Try Taiwanese Street Foods: Sample oyster omelets, stinky tofu, fried chicken, scallion pancakes, and bubble tea for a true taste of Taiwan.
Best Night Markets to Visit: visit Shilin, Raohe, and Ningxia markets for food stalls, local snacks, and lively nighttime energy.
Popular Restaurants and Local Eats: Visit Din Tai Fung and local eateries for xiaolongbao, seafood, and classic Taiwanese dishes in a cozy setting.
Vegetarian Food Options: Enjoy tofu, vegetable dumplings, noodles, and other vegetarian dishes available at street stalls and specialized restaurants.
Taiwan’s food scene offers flavors for every palate, making every meal a memorable part of your trip.
Suggested Taiwan Itineraries
Taiwan has plenty to see and do: these itineraries help plan your visit based on how many days you have for a smooth and enjoyable trip.
3-Day Taiwan Itinerary:
Focus on Taipei’s highlights, including Taipei 101, night markets, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and a day trip to Jiufen or Shifen for culture and scenic views.
5-Day Taiwan Itinerary:
Visit Taipei and nearby day trips, then head south to Taichung or Sun Moon Lake, enjoying nature, temples, and local cuisine along the way.
7-Day Taiwan Itinerary:
Combine Taipei, Taichung, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Kaohsiung. Experience city life, mountain trails, hot springs, and cultural landmarks while balancing sightseeing and relaxation.
10-Day Taiwan Itinerary:
Cover Taipei, Taichung, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, Kaohsiung, Taitung, and Kenting. This extended itinerary includes nature, cultural sites, coastal drives, and plenty of local food experiences for a complete Taiwan trip.
These itineraries make it easy to plan your Taiwan trip, whether you have a few days or over a week to visit.
Taiwan Travel Tips That Make Your Trip Easier
Traveling in Taiwan is smooth once you know a few local tips. These points help you save time, stay safe, and enjoy your trip without hassle.
- Learn a few basic Mandarin phrases and use translation apps for directions, ordering food, and shopping. Many younger locals speak some English.
- Carry cash for night markets and small shops, while credit and debit cards work in larger stores, restaurants, and hotels.
- Taiwan is generally safe. Follow public rules, respect local customs, and keep a low profile in temples and public transport.
- Buy a prepaid SIM card or portable Wi-Fi at the airport or convenience stores to have reliable internet for maps, translation, and communication.
Following these tips makes getting around Taiwan easier and your trip more enjoyable.
Final Thoughts
Experiencing Taiwan’s things to do firsthand was unforgettable. From hiking scenic trails and relaxing in hot springs to seeing vibrant night markets and cultural landmarks.
I loved tasting local street food, visiting temples, and taking short day trips outside the city. Taiwan’s easy transport and friendly locals made the visit simple and enjoyable.
Each day felt full yet relaxing, leaving lasting memories of the island’s beauty and culture.
Start planning your trip now and enjoy the best Taiwan things to do for a realistic experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Local Currency In Taiwan?
The official currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). Cash is widely accepted, and ATMs are available in cities for easy withdrawals.
Can I Use Credit Cards Everywhere In Taiwan?
Credit cards work in most hotels, restaurants, and large stores, but smaller shops and night markets usually prefer cash.
Is Tipping Expected In Taiwan?
Tipping is not customary. Service charges may be included in restaurants, but small gestures like rounding up the bill are optional.
Are There Any Vaccinations Required Before Visiting Taiwan?
No mandatory vaccinations are required for general travel, but routine vaccines like tetanus and hepatitis are recommended.
Is Taiwan Accessible For Travelers With Disabilities?
Many public transport systems, attractions, and hotels have accessibility features, though some historic sites and older areas may have limited access.
