#1 Taiwan Travel Guide: Tips For An Unforgettable Journey

Taiwan has become one of East Asia’s most lovable spots in recent years. If you’re looking for a place filled with great food, friendly people, and views that stay with you long after you return home, then this is the perfect destination for you.

This Taiwan travel guide will show you the must-see places, best things to do, and some handy tips to make your trip smoother. Keep reading and you’ll know exactly how to experience everything Taiwan has to offer.

Taiwan Travel Guide – Best Places To Visit In Taiwan

Let’s start with the top places that should be on your bucket list when visiting Taiwan!

1. Taipei City – 臺北市

Taipei is Taiwan’s capital and a city with a little bit of everything. It has modern skyscrapers, busy night markets, historic temples, natural spots for hiking and hot springs nearby. The city is extremely safe and easy to get around thanks to its top-notch public transport system.

The most famous landmarks in the city are the National Palace Museum and Taipei 101, a skyscraper that offers amazing views of the city. You can also hike up to Elephant Mountain to see it from a different perspective.

Don’t forget to check out the vibrant Ximending street and then head to the Old City where Longshan Temple is. The old gates remind you that Taipei has a long history behind all the modern sparkle.

2. Jiufen – 九份

Jiufen is a small mountain town that sits on a hill above the sea. It was once a gold mining village but most people visit it today because of its narrow streets, tea houses, and lanterns that glow in the night. Jiufen is near Taipei, so getting there is simple and you can visit it as a day trip.

The main area is Jiufen Old Street, where you’ll find local shops and viewpoints over the coast. You can also visit the Teapot Mountain trail nearby for a short adventure.

3. Taroko National Park – 太魯閣國家公園

The Taroko Gorge is one of Taiwan’s most stunning natural wonders with its towering marble and granite cliffs, waterfalls and lush forests.

One of the biggest highlights of the park is the Swallow Grotto which is a narrow canyon carved by the Liwu River with dramatic cliffs, and Baiyang Waterfalls. If you’re more on the adventurous side, head down the Zhuilu Old Trail for a once-in-a-lifetime view of the gorge.

If you’re lucky, you’ll also spot wildlife like macaques and deer that roam the park. Remember to arrive early, bring cash for snacks, and check the trail and weather conditions for a smooth visit.

4. Sun Moon Lake – 日月潭

The Sun Moon Lake is Taiwan’s largest lake. The name comes from its shape with one side of the lake resembling the sun and the other the moon. This is an ideal place for chilling among temples with scenic views, and for outdoor activities like biking, hiking, and boat rides.

You’ll want to visit the Wenwu Temple for a breathtaking panorama, the Ci’en Pagoda for the sunset, and the Xuanzang temple for some peaceful contemplation.

For breathtaking views of the lake and mountain take a ride on the cable car. Stop by Ita Thao village to grab some local snacks and soak up the lively atmosphere. If you’re up for a short walk, the Tutingzai Trail offers an amazing viewpoint over the lake. Also, Lalu Island in the center is sacred so you’ll have to admire it from afar.

5. Alishan – 阿里山

Alishan is a famous mountain area known for its misty forests and peaceful walking paths. The trails are mostly easy, winding past ancient trees, wooden bridges and small ponds, which gives the forests a calm, almost magical feel.

One of the biggest highlights is watching the sun rise over the mountains. The view of clouds rolling through the valleys can be truly unforgettable. You’ll also love taking the forest train, chugging through the mist and moving through different parts of the park.

Alishan is worth visiting if you want a break from the cities. Many travelers say the thing that makes Alishan special is its calm atmosphere. Even a short visit gives you a peaceful nature experience that balances out the busy parts of a Taiwan trip.

6. Taiwanese Night Markets

If you want a fast but flavorful and affordable way to experience life across the island, then Taiwan street food is the way to go. Night markets are the heart of the food scene, where you’ll find everything from beef noodles and scallion pancakes to grilled mushrooms and pork pepper buns.

To find the best dishes, always follow the crowds. Stalls with the longest lines usually serve the best food. Watch what locals order and choose the same. Night markets like Raohe, Shilin, and Linjiang are great places to start because they offer many options in one place.

How Do You Say Travel In Taiwanese Hokkien?

Travel in Taiwanese is lí iû, written as 旅遊. You may also hear the phrase lí hîng for a journey, trip, or traveling. It’s written as 旅行.

Easy Taiwanese Vocabulary

What comes to your mind when you hear about Taiwanese Hokkien? You might picture something close to Mandarin, but the two sound completely different. People in Taiwan use Taiwanese Hokkien as a living community language with roots that go back to the 17th century.

Today, you can hear it everywhere across the island. As a traveler, no one will expect you to speak fluently but not everyone speaks English in Taiwan and they will be super impressed if you know some basic Taiwanese phrases. Check out the table below for some words you can use on your Taiwan trip!

Practical Travel Tips For Our Taiwan Travel Guide

Below are all the things you should keep in mind while planning your trip to Taiwan. These tips will also help you understand the culture and etiquette so you can show respect to the locals and have a meaningful journey.

• The best time to visit is from October to December and from March to May because these months are the most comfortable for exploring cities and nature.
  
  
• Avoid visiting during Lunar New Year, summer typhoons, or long holiday weekends.
  
  
• Get an EasyCard for public transport that works on the metro, buses, and shared bikes. You can top it up at convenience stores.
  
  
• Make sure you always carry cash, because some night markets only take coins or small bills.
  
  
• Tipping is not expected and can even be seen as impolite.
  
  
• If you want to rent a car, you need an international driving permit.
  
  
• Learn a few basic phrases, such as how to say hello in Taiwanese, to help with simple interactions. Use a language app like Ling to practice.
  
  
• Carry an umbrella with you because the weather can change fast.
  
  
• Start sightseeing early to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler temperatures.
  
  
• Wash your hands before entering temples.
  
  
• Download an offline map to help navigate areas with a weak signal.
  
  
• Consider visiting one of Taiwan’s 150 small islands, like the Green Island, Orchid Island, and the Penghu archipelago for a more tropical experience.

Taiwan Travel Guide: Frequently Asked Questions

Ready To Pack Your Bags?

This Taiwan travel guide showed you the best spots in Taiwan, how to get around and where to find the most delicious food. From the temples and night markets of Taipei to the cliffs of Taroko Gorge, Taiwan has something for every traveler. With these tips, you’re ready to go and enjoy your trip without any stress.

And remember to learn a few basic phrases, like thank you in Taiwanese, to have an even better experience!

Learn Taiwanese Hokkien For Your Trip!

Unlock the full magic of your travels with the Ling app. Learn Taiwanese on the go, connect with locals, and dive into the local culture. From learning basics like saying hello to more advanced topics, Ling becomes your travel companion and turns every trip into more than just sightseeing.

Start speaking Taiwanese and experiencing the world with confidence today!