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Taiwan
Taiwan offers a vibrant mix of modern cities and natural beauty. Visitors can explore Taipei’s bustling night markets and iconic Taipei 101, enjoy the scenic landscapes of Taroko Gorge, and relax in the hot springs of Beitou. Its blend of dynamic city life and stunning nature makes Taiwan a compelling destination.
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Summary
Neighboring Countries
Overview
Months
04. April, 02. February, 01. January, 03. March, 10. October, 11. November, 12. December
Vacation type
Beach, Couple, Family, Nature, Sightseeing, Party, Mountains
Expenses
<100€, <150€, <200€, Over 200€
Temperature
10-20°C, 20-25°C, 25-30°C
Rainfall
50-100mm, 100-150mm
Safety
Safe
Continent
Asia
Currency
New Taiwan dollar
Languages
Chinese
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit Taiwan is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). These seasons offer mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for exploring cities, landscapes, and cultural sites.
- Spring (March to May): Features pleasant temperatures, blooming flowers, and generally good weather for outdoor activities and sightseeing in cities like Taipei and Taichung.
- Autumn (September to November): Provides cooler temperatures and less humidity, which is ideal for exploring the natural beauty of Taiwan, including its mountains and coastlines.
- Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms and a higher risk of typhoons.
- Winter (December to February) is cooler and can be rainy, especially in northern Taiwan, but is still a good time to visit if you prefer fewer crowds and milder weather.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: October-April (Spring/Fall)
Budget Vacation ($40-80/day)
Accommodation: $20-40/night (budget hostels, guesthouses).
Food: $10-20/day (local food stalls, casual eateries).
Activities: $5-15/day (sightseeing, museums).
Transportation: $5-10/day (public transport).
Other Costs: $5/day (small souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($80-200/day)
Accommodation: $40-80/night (mid-range hotels, boutique guesthouses).
Food: $15-30/day (restaurants, local dishes).
Activities: $10-30/day (city tours, historical sites).
Transportation: $10-20/day (private taxis, rental bikes).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs, local experiences).
Luxury Vacation ($200+/day)
Accommodation: $80+/night (luxury hotels, resorts).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining, upscale restaurants).
Activities: $30+/day (private tours, exclusive experiences).
Transportation: $15+/day (private transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury shopping, experiences).
Off-Peak Season: May-September (Summer)
Budget Vacation ($30-70/day)
Accommodation: $15-30/night (budget hotels, hostels).
Food: $10-15/day (street food, budget eateries).
Activities: $5-10/day (beach time, casual tours).
Transportation: $5-10/day (local buses, taxis).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs, minor purchases).
Mid-Range Vacation ($70-150/day)
Accommodation: $30-60/night (mid-range guesthouses, motels).
Food: $10-25/day (cafes, casual dining).
Activities: $5-20/day (local tours, scenic spots).
Transportation: $5-15/day (local taxis, transport).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs, small experiences).
Luxury Vacation ($150+/day)
Accommodation: $60+/night (luxury hotels, upscale resorts).
Food: $20+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $20+/day (private tours, luxury shopping).
Transportation: $15+/day (private taxis, rentals).
Other Costs: $10+/day (luxury activities).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Taipei
- The capital city known for its vibrant night markets, including Shilin Night Market, and landmarks such as Taipei 101, one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world.
2. Kaohsiung
- A major port city with attractions like the Lotus Pond, Pier-2 Art Center, and the scenic Love River.
3. Taichung
- Renowned for its cultural attractions such as the National Museum of Fine Arts, and its bustling Fengjia Night Market.
4. Tainan
- Known for its rich history, traditional temples, and delicious street food. It is the oldest city in Taiwan.
5. Hsinchu
- Famous for its technology industry and the Hsinchu City God Temple. It’s also known for its lively food scene.
Taipei
Islands
1. Penghu Islands
- Also known as the Pescadores, this archipelago offers stunning beaches, unique basalt formations, and historical sites. Popular islands include Penghu Main Island and the smaller islets of Qimei and Wang'an.
2. Kinmen Islands
- Located near the coast of mainland China, these islands are known for their historical significance, well-preserved military fortifications, and beautiful scenery. Kinmen Main Island is the largest and most visited.
3. Matsu Islands
- This group of islands is known for its rich cultural heritage and historical sites, including old military forts and traditional architecture. Nangan and Beigan are among the most visited.
4. Green Island
- Situated off the southeast coast of Taiwan, Green Island is famous for its volcanic landscapes, hot springs, and excellent snorkeling and diving opportunities.
5. Orchid Island
- Located off the southeastern coast, Orchid Island is known for its lush landscapes, traditional Tao culture, and natural beauty. It’s a popular destination for eco-tourism and cultural experiences.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Taroko Gorge
- Explore this stunning marble canyon in Taroko National Park, known for its dramatic cliffs, waterfalls, and scenic hiking trails through lush forests and canyons.
2. Alishan
- Visit this mountain resort area famous for its picturesque sunrise views, ancient forests, and the historic Alishan Forest Railway, offering a serene retreat and beautiful landscapes.
3. Sun Moon Lake
- Enjoy the scenic beauty of this tranquil lake in central Taiwan, with opportunities for boating, cycling around the lake, and visiting nearby temples and scenic spots.
4. Yangmingshan National Park
- Discover this park near Taipei, known for its volcanic terrain, hot springs, hiking trails, and seasonal flower blooms, including cherry blossoms and calla lilies.
5. Kenting National Park
- Explore this tropical park in southern Taiwan, known for its beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and diverse marine life, as well as scenic coastal landscapes and hiking trails.
6. Mount Hehuan
- Hike this high mountain in central Taiwan, offering panoramic views of the surrounding peaks and valleys, with opportunities to see diverse flora and fauna.
Cultural Attractions
1. National Palace Museum
- Visit this renowned museum in Taipei, housing one of the world’s largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts, including ancient ceramics, calligraphy, and paintings.
2. Taipei 101
- Experience this iconic skyscraper in Taipei, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation decks, and explore its shopping and dining facilities.
3. Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
- Explore this prominent landmark in Taipei, dedicated to the former leader of Taiwan, featuring a grand hall, gardens, and a changing of the guard ceremony.
4. Shilin Night Market
- Discover this popular night market in Taipei, known for its wide range of street food, local snacks, and vibrant atmosphere, offering a taste of Taiwanese cuisine and culture.
5. Lukang Old Street
- Stroll through this historic street in Lukang, known for its well-preserved architecture, traditional shops, and local food, reflecting Taiwan’s cultural heritage.
6. Tainan City
- Explore Taiwan’s oldest city, rich in historical sites such as ancient temples, forts, and traditional architecture, along with a vibrant food scene and cultural festivals.
How to get around
1. High-Speed Rail (THSR)
- The Taiwan High-Speed Rail (THSR) is the fastest and most efficient way to travel along Taiwan's west coast. It connects major cities like Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung. Trains are modern, comfortable, and offer stunning views of the countryside. Perfect for long-distance travel between cities.
2. Trains
- Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) operates a well-connected train network that serves the entire island. Regular trains, including express trains, are ideal for reaching places not served by the THSR, such as Hualien, Taitung, and other destinations along the scenic east coast.
3. Taipei Metro (MRT)
- Taipei’s MRT system is one of the most convenient ways to get around the capital. It’s clean, efficient, and covers most areas of interest, including landmarks like Taipei 101, Shilin Night Market, and Elephant Mountain. Kaohsiung also has an MRT system for local travel.
4. Buses
- Buses cover both local and long-distance routes. City buses are common in urban areas like Taipei and Kaohsiung, while long-distance buses connect cities and tourist destinations, including Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and the Taroko Gorge. Intercity buses are a cheaper alternative to trains.
5. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is great for exploring Taiwan’s scenic areas, especially mountainous regions like Alishan or the rugged east coast. Be prepared for city traffic and parking challenges in urban areas, but it's ideal for road trips to places like Kenting National Park and Taroko National Park.
6. Scooter Rentals
- Scooters are a popular mode of transport, especially for exploring smaller towns and scenic areas like Kenting and Penghu Islands. You’ll need a valid international driver’s license to rent a scooter, and it's a great way to experience the local culture.
7. Biking
- Taiwan is very bike-friendly, with designated bike lanes in cities like Taipei and popular bike routes around Sun Moon Lake, Taitung, and along the East Coast. YouBike, the public bike-sharing service, is available in Taipei and other major cities.
8. Taxis
- Taxis are readily available in all cities and can be a convenient option for shorter trips. They are metered, reliable, and relatively affordable. Ride-hailing apps like Uber are also available in Taipei and some other cities.
9. Domestic Flights
- For travel between Taiwan's outlying islands such as Penghu, Kinmen, or Matsu, domestic flights are the fastest option. Airlines like UNI Air and Mandarin Airlines offer frequent services from Taipei and Kaohsiung.
For the best experience, use the THSR or TRA for long-distance travel, the MRT for getting around cities, and buses for affordable regional travel. Scooters or car rentals are ideal for exploring scenic regions, while biking and walking are great for city exploration.
What to eat
1. Beef Noodle Soup
- A flavorful soup made with tender beef, noodles, and spices, a Taiwanese staple.
2. Gua Bao
- Braised pork belly served in a steamed bun with pickled vegetables.
3. Oyster Omelette
- A savory omelette filled with oysters and served with a sweet sauce.
4. Scallion Pancakes
- Crispy pancakes made with dough and green onions, often served as a snack.
5. Bubble Tea
- A tea-based drink with chewy tapioca pearls, a popular Taiwanese beverage.
Beef Noodle Soup
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €450 to €800.
- Cheapest Months: October to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $600 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: October to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $700.
- Cheapest Months: October to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $500 to $900.
- Cheapest Months: October to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $600 to $1,000.
- Cheapest Months: October to March.
- Peak Prices: June to August and December holidays.
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., and Australia do not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days for tourism.
2. Visa-Free Entry
- Many travelers can enter visa-free for short stays, typically up to 90 days, depending on nationality.
3. Visa Application
- Citizens from countries that require a visa must apply for a Taiwan visa at a Taiwanese embassy or consulate before traveling.
4. Types of Visa
- Common visa types include a Visitor Visa: Typically valid for tourism, business, or family visits.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing generally takes 5 to 10 business days, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance if required.
6. Duration of Stay
- Visa-free visitors can stay for up to 90 days; visa holders should refer to their specific visa for duration.
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are generally required for entry, but travel insurance is recommended.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). Credit cards are widely accepted.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally not safe to drink. Bottled water is recommended.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 110V, and plug types A and B (flat pins) are used.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is not customary.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Chunghwa Telecom and Taiwan Mobile.
6. Driving Side
- In Taiwan, people drive on the right side of the road.