Taiwan independent travel guide (2025): top things to do, popular tourism attractions, itinerary planning, accommodation, food, transportation, weather, and more - everything you need to know (updated November 2025) | Trip.com

About Taiwan

Recommended trip: 5–10 day(s)

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Taiwan Local Travel Guide 2025

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Taiwan Brief Guide

Taiwan is an enchanting island renowned for its blend of cultural influences and natural wonders. Its diverse culture is shaped by aboriginal, Chinese, Japanese, and Western influences, thus creating a rich tapestry of traditions and customs. Taiwan is celebrated for its vibrant food scene, where night markets serve as culinary hubs offering a plethora of dishes like bubble tea, beef noodles, and the unique stinky tofu. Among the top attractions, Taipei stands out with its iconic Taipei 101, bustling night markets, and rich historical sites. Outside the capital, the scenic beauty of Taroko Gorge, the tranquil Sun Moon Lake, and the historical depth of Tainan attract many visitors. These places not only attract tourists but also offer insights into Taiwan's complex history and cultural diversity.

Taiwan Must-try local experiences

1. Explore the Iconic Taipei 101 Ascend to the top of Taipei 101 for breathtaking views of Taipei. Then, hike up Elephant Mountain for a panoramic view of the city's skyline, especially stunning at sunset. 2. Wander through Taroko Gorge's Natural Splendor Experience the natural beauty of Taroko Gorge with its marble cliffs, waterfalls, and lush forests. Hike trails like Shakadang and Zhuilu Old Trail for stunning views. 3. Step back in Time at the Taipei Palace Museum Discover a vast collection of Chinese art and artifacts at the Taipei Palace Museum, showcasing thousands of years of history and culture. 4. Experience the Tranquility of Sun Moon Lake The Sun Moon Lake offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and lush greenery. Take a boat ride, cycle around the lake, or visit the Wenwu Temple for a cultural experience. 5. Explore Jiufen and Shifen Wander through the charming streets of Jiufen, a historic gold mining town. Visit at dusk for a magical atmosphere with glowing lanterns in Shifen. 6. Experience the Night Markets Dive into the bustling atmosphere of Taiwan's night markets, such as Shilin Night Market or Ningxia Night Market in Taipei, for a taste of local street food and unique shopping experiences. 7. Release a Sky Lantern in Pingxi Experience the magic of releasing a sky lantern in Pingxi, a tradition believed to bring good luck. Write your wishes on the lantern and watch it float away. 8. Admire the Blooming Cherry Blossoms In spring, catch the breathtaking sight of cherry blossoms in full bloom at Yangmingshan National Park, where you can also enjoy hot springs and volcanic landscapes. 9. Sample the Local Cuisine in Taiwan Region Indulge in the diverse flavors of cuisine in Taiwan, from beef noodle soup and oyster omelets to shaved ice desserts and bubble tea. Explore night markets for an authentic culinary adventure. 10. Visit the Creative Parks Explore creative parks like Huashan 1914 Creative Park and Songshan Cultural and Creative Park in Taipei for unique shops, art exhibitions, and cultural events. 11. Capture the Beauty of Alishan Take stunning photos of the sunrise over the sea of clouds at Alishan, a picturesque mountain area known for its scenic railway, ancient trees, and tea plantations. 12. Relax in a Hot Spring Unwind and rejuvenate in one of Taiwan's natural hot springs, known for their therapeutic properties. Beitou and Wulai are popular destinations for hot spring resorts.

Taiwan Best cities to visit

Hualien City is a must-visit for tourists. As a transportation hub where you can enjoy the beauty of the Pacific Ocean, it is a good place to ride bicycles and enjoy yourself in a relaxing atmosphere. The place is completely suffused with an artistic atmosphere, bookshops and cafés. With the pleasant scent and flavor of old-fashioned food, you'll find the charm of Hualien. The center of the city is the intersection of Zhongshan, Zhongzheng, and Zhonghua roads. This is called the "Golden Triangle" and is very lively There is a veritable forest of shops and businesses of all kinds. It is also a popular gathering place for gourmets.

Taiwan Transportation

Taiwan is primarily accessed by air, with major international airports like Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport and Kaohsiung International Airport serving as the main gateways. Direct flights are available from various large cities across the globe, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, and Australia. These flights connect Taiwan to the world, making it a reachable destination for international travelers.

Taiwan Best Time to Visit

The best times to visit Taiwan are from February to April and from October to December. These periods offer favorable weather conditions with low rainfall and comfortable temperatures, which is ideal for exploring the outdoors and participating in local events like the Lantern Festival. Additionally, the autumn months of October and November provide clear skies and low humidity levels, making it a great time for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Taiwan Useful Guide

Be aware of natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons. For road safety, be mindful of local driving rules and always use crosswalks, as pedestrian safety is a concern. In emergencies, dial 110 for police, and 119 for fire and ambulance services. Always have travel health insurance and be prepared for the different emergency numbers across specific cities or regions when needed.