Taiwan may be a small island, but it packs a massive punch for travelers. With its mix of lush mountains, buzzing night markets, pristine coastlines, and vibrant traditions, Taiwan is one of Asia’s most underrated travel gems. If you’re into hiking, history, street food, or city life, there’s something for everyone.
Here’s a complete guide to the best things to do in Taiwan for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.
Things to Do in Taiwan
1. Explore the Bustling Streets of Taipei
Taiwan’s capital city is the perfect place to start your journey.
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Taipei 101: Ride one of the world’s fastest elevators to the top for sweeping views of the city.
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Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall: A grand historical monument with gardens, ponds, and changing of the guard ceremonies.
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Ximending District: Taipei’s youth culture hub, full of fashion shops, food stalls, and karaoke bars.
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Night Markets: Don’t miss Shilin Night Market and Raohe Night Market for street eats like stinky tofu, bubble tea, and Taiwanese sausages.
2. Visit Taroko Gorge National Park
One of the most stunning natural attractions in Taiwan, Taroko Gorge is a marble-walled canyon with hiking trails, waterfalls, and temples carved into cliffs.
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Shakadang Trail and Swallow Grotto offer scenic walks
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Eternal Spring Shrine is one of the most photographed spots
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Easily accessible from Hualien City, a great base for exploring the park
3. Relax at Sun Moon Lake
Nestled in central Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is the island’s largest body of water and a haven of serenity.
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Rent bikes and cycle the lakeside trail
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Visit the Wenwu Temple and Ci’en Pagoda
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Take a scenic boat ride or try stand-up paddleboarding
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Stay overnight at a lakeside guesthouse or resort
4. Discover Taiwan’s Tea Culture in Maokong
Tea lovers should head to Maokong, on the outskirts of Taipei, for mountain views and traditional tea houses.
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Take the Maokong Gondola for sweeping city and mountain views
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Visit a tea plantation or museum
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Sip high-mountain oolong tea while watching the sunset
5. Hike in Alishan National Scenic Area
Known for its alpine forests, misty mornings, and sunrise views, Alishan is a dream for hikers and nature lovers.
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Ride the historic Alishan Forest Railway
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Catch the sunrise at Zhushan with a sea of clouds
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Walk through ancient cedar forests and scenic trails
6. Soak in a Hot Spring
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Taiwan is a volcanic island, so naturally, it has fantastic hot springs. Some top spots include:
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Beitou (just north of Taipei): public baths, hot spring hotels, and a thermal valley
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Jiaoxi in Yilan: great for hot spring foot spas and resorts
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Wulai: traditional Atayal village with hot springs and waterfalls
7. Explore the Beaches and Coral Reefs of Kenting
Head south to Kenting National Park for beaches, tropical weather, and ocean fun.
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Swim or snorkel at Baisha or Nanwan (South Bay)
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Visit the Eluanbi Lighthouse and southernmost point of Taiwan
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Enjoy the lively Kenting Night Market
8. Dive Into History at Tainan
Taiwan’s oldest city, Tainan, is rich in cultural heritage and historic temples.
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Visit Chihkan Tower, Anping Fort, and Confucius Temple
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Sample Tainan’s famous street foods like danzai noodles and shrimp rolls
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Explore centuries-old streets and charming alleyways
9. Take a Day Trip to Jiufen and Shifen
Just outside Taipei, these old mining towns are packed with charm and nostalgia.
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Jiufen: A hilltop village famous for its tea houses and narrow streets (some say it inspired Spirited Away)
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Shifen Waterfall: Taiwan’s broadest waterfall, also known as “Little Niagara”
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Release a sky lantern with your wishes at Shifen Old Street
10. Eat Your Way Across the Island
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Taiwan is a street food paradise. Some dishes to try include:
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Beef noodle soup
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Lu rou fan (braised pork rice)
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Oyster omelet
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Bubble tea
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Scallion pancakes
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Gua bao (pork belly buns)
Don’t leave without exploring a night market in every city you visit!
Plan Your Trip
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Language: Mandarin Chinese (English is moderately spoken in cities)
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Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)
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Transport: The Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) makes travel between cities fast and easy
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Best Time to Visit: October to April for cooler weather and fewer typhoons
Frequently Asked Questions About Taiwan
1. Where is Taiwan located?
Taiwan is an island nation in East Asia, located off the southeastern coast of China. It’s bordered by the East China Sea, Philippine Sea, South China Sea, and Taiwan Strait.
2. Do I need a visa to visit Taiwan?
It depends on your nationality. Many countries, including the U.S., Canada, EU nations, and some African and Asian countries, enjoy visa-free entry for short stays. Always check Taiwan’s current visa policy before traveling.
3. What is the best time to visit Taiwan?
The best times are October to April, when the weather is cooler and drier. Spring (March–May) and autumn (October–November) are particularly pleasant. Summer (June–August) can be hot and humid, with a chance of typhoons.
4. Is Taiwan safe for travelers?
Yes, Taiwan is considered very safe. Violent crime is rare, and petty theft is uncommon. It’s also LGBTQ+ friendly and welcoming to solo travelers.
5. What language is spoken in Taiwan?
The official language is Mandarin Chinese. Taiwanese Hokkien and Hakka are also spoken. In cities and tourist areas, some locals speak basic English, especially younger people.
6. What currency is used in Taiwan?
The currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD or NT$). Credit cards are accepted in many places, but cash is still preferred in small shops and night markets.
Final Thoughts
If you’re hiking through misty mountains, tasting your way through night markets, or learning about ancient traditions, Taiwan offers something for every kind of traveler. It’s welcoming, easy to navigate, and filled with experiences that leave a lasting impression.
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