taiwan trip on a budget

Lists by Lukiih 🍀

Practical travel guides with less fluff

• 💰 My 2024 Taiwan Trip Cost: A Budget Breakdown

Taiwan, an island country known for night markets and metro-accessible hiking trails, can be visited with a budget of $45 to $90 a day.

My one-week trip to Taiwan cost a total of $1,956 . In this post, I share:

• 💰 Expected travel costs
• 💡 Budgeting tips
• 💵 How much cash to bring
• ✈️ My trip’s costs by category

Planning a trip? Here’s  what to know about Taiwan .

• Is Taiwan Expensive?
• How Much Is a Trip?
• About My Trip
• Cost Breakdown
• Daily Budget: $102
• Flight: $1,240
• Accommodation: $243
• Transportation: $84
• Entertainment: $224
• Withdrawing Cash
• How Much Cash To Bring
• Cash-Only Places
• Tipping Etiquette

Is Taiwan Expensive To Travel To?

Taiwan is a semi-affordable destination in Asia. It has affordable public transportation and a cheap street food scene, but it also has moderate accommodation prices, and guided tours there can add up.

Taiwan is less budget-friendly than nearby countries like Vietnam, Cambodia, and Thailand. However, it’s more affordable than popular places like Japan, Singapore, and Hong Kong.

💰 Trip Daily Budget for Destinations in Asia

For comparison, I visited these countries in Asia within a year of visiting Taiwan, and here’s how much I spent per day at each one:

*My Cambodia daily budget is high because I splurged on accommodation.

See all my daily budgets .

How Much Is a Trip to Taiwan?

This section covers estimated trip costs depending on your travel style. I share my actual travel expenses further below.

🎒 Budget Traveler – Taiwan Trip Cost

A budget traveler can expect to spend approximately $45 per day or $225 for five days of travel in Taiwan, excluding flights.

Here’s a quick overview of my expenses by travel category:

Traveling Taiwan on a Budget

To travel to Taiwan on a budget, here are some things you’ll need to do:

• 🏠 Accommodation – For the cheapest option in big cities like Taipei, stay at a  dorm-style hostel for as low as $15 a night . In popular cities outside of Taipei, including Kaohsiung, Hualien, and Tainan, you can find hostels for as low as $10 per night .
• 🚇 Transportation – Save money by riding the country’s excellent public transportation. In Taipei, metro rides can cost less than $1 per ride. Train tickets between cities can be as low as $15 one-way (e.g., a train ticket from Taipei to Hualien or a bus ticket from Taipei to Sun Moon Lake).
• 🍜 Food – You can save significantly on food in Taiwan by eating at the numerous night markets. Plenty of cheap eats cost less than $5 per meal.
• ⛰️ Entertainment – Skip the guided tours and prioritize Taiwan’s many indoor and outdoor attractions that are completely free .
• ☀️ Travel Season – For the best deals on accommodations, travel to Taiwan during the low season, which runs from January to February. These are the coldest months of the year, with temperatures dipping into the mid-50s °F.

💰 Mid-Range Budget Traveler – Taiwan Trip Cost

A mid-range budget traveler like myself can expect to spend approximately $90 per day or $450 for five days of travel in Taiwan, excluding flights. I break down my trip expenses by travel category below.

About My Taiwan Trip

To give context to the expenses below, here’s what you need to know about my trip:

• Taipei : 4 days
• Jiufen : 1 day
• Hualien : 2 days
• ✌️ Group traveler – I traveled with one other person, so we were able to split some costs, such as housing.
• ☀️ Low season – I visited in October and November, which is considered the low season.

Taiwan tends to be popular year-round, but the peak season is from May to September .

• 💰 Mid-range budget – I consider myself a mid-range budget traveler, and these expenses reflect that. I don’t aim to travel on a budget, but I’m thoughtful about how and where I spend.
• 🍀 Self-funded – My trips are self-funded, so I paid for everything listed below. None of my excursions or experiences are sponsored.
• 💵 US dollars – All costs listed in this post are per person and in US dollars, converted from Taiwan’s local currency, the New Taiwan Dollar.

The exchange rate was $1 USD = 32 NT at the time of writing.

Total Cost for a Taiwan Trip: $1,956

My one-week trip to Taiwan cost a total of $1,956 , including flights.

See the highlights of my trip in this  Taiwan itinerary .

💰 Cost Breakdown for Taiwan

🗓️ daily budget in taiwan: $102.

My Taiwan trip cost $102 per day , excluding my round-trip flights from and to the United States.

A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend about $90 per day in Taiwan. This generally means not staying in a hostel or luxury hotel, eating at some $$$ restaurants and many $ night markets, and being willing to pay for an Uber, but mostly taking Taiwan’s public transportation.

✈️ Flight Cost to Taiwan: $1,240

My round-trip flight from the East Coast of the United States to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport was $1,240 .

A round-trip flight between the US and Taiwan that costs under $750 is considered cheap; international flights typically cost over $850. 

🏠 Accommodation Cost in Taiwan: $243

My average cost of accommodation in Taiwan was $35 per night. I was able to split accommodations with one other person at all times.

Here are the accommodations I stayed at and how much I paid for each:

Accommodations in Taiwan are relatively affordable. It’s worth researching where to stay as I found that for less than $50 a night , you can get vastly different experiences (e.g., room service vs. not, tourist vs. residential area).

🍜 Food Cost in Taiwan: $165

My average cost of food in Taiwan was $24 per day.

A mid-range budget traveler can expect to spend about $20 per day on food in Taiwan.

Cheapest Meals in Taiwan

Here are the most affordable meals I ate during my trip:

Taiwan is known for its delicious, affordable food. You can easily spend  less than $10 per meal  at a night market or local restaurant. When visiting a night market, remember to bring cash . I share some of my favorite restaurants and night markets here .

Most Expensive Meals in Taiwan

Here are the most expensive meals I ate during my trip:

If you are unfamiliar with Taiwan’s local eats, you can take a highly-rated private street food tour to discover delicious spots .

🚇 Transportation Cost in Taiwan: $84

My average cost of transportation in Taiwan was $12 per day.

Here are the transportation methods I took and how much I paid for each:

Taipei’s public transportation is excellent. If you plan to ride the MRT frequently, like I did, I recommend getting an EasyCard despite the 100 NT (roughly $3) non-refundable fee. At the end of your trip, you can refund any remaining balance.

Despite the busy streets, Taipei’s infrastructure is very cyclist-friendly . I saw visitors taking a Taipei biking tour that looked like a great experience, and I wished I had done it.

⛰️ Entertainment Cost in Taiwan: $224

My average cost of entertainment in Taiwan was $32 per day. This total includes a 5% to 15% tip at certain places.

A typical mid-range traveler in Taiwan can expect to spend about  $25 a day on entertainment.

Costs of Activities and Attractions in Taiwan

Here are all the activities and attractions I paid for and how much each cost:

You can take a guided tour of some of Taipei’s top attractions to learn more about the country’s history and culture .

Free Things To Do in Taiwan

Taiwan is known for its natural beauty, so there are many free outdoor activities and attractions available.

Here are the attractions and activities I did in Taiwan that were free:

• Hike up Elephant Mountain for amazing views of Taipei.
• Visit Lungshan Temple , a beautiful, 300-year-old temple.
• Check out Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall  and the beautiful surrounding park.
• Explore Yehliu Geopark , which is known for its unique rock formations.

See other great free things to do in Taiwan .

Do You Need Cash in Taiwan?

Taiwan’s economy is largely based on cash transactions , especially in non-tourist areas, so bring some cash. I frequently needed to use cash when I visited.

Below are tips on bringing and using cash in Taiwan.

💵 1. Withdraw cash in New Taiwan Dollars.

Taiwan’s currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (NT or NT$), and the  US dollar is not widely accepted.

ATMs are  readily available  in many tourist places in Taiwan, but if your debit card doesn’t reimburse your ATM fees, you’ll want to withdraw a higher amount less frequently to save on fees.

🏧 2. Carry about $20 to $30 worth of cash per day in Taiwan.

On a typical day, a mid-range budget traveler in Taiwan will need  at least $20 i n cash  to cover food, transportation, and attractions. A daily cash expense breakdown can look like this:

• $10 at night markets, cafes and restaurants
• $5 for tipping and entrance fees
• $5 for transportation

On my Taiwan trip, I spent a total of $115 (about $16 per day) in cash . Here’s a breakdown of how I used my cash:

I keep my cash in my crossbody bag , but if you want extra protection against pickpocketing , carry it in a hidden money belt instead.

💵 3. Several places in Taiwan are cash-only.

Based on my experience, the following places in Taiwan tend to be cash-only:

• Public transportation – Surprisingly, none of the MRT kiosks take credit cards.
• Dining – All night markets and most restaurants were cash-only. Only bigger and more established places took credit cards (e.g., Din Tai Fung, Chia Te).
• Tours – All tour guides had to be tipped with cash.
• Spas and other service providers – All three haircut and spa places I visited were cash-only.

💰 4. Tipping is not customary in Taiwan.

Tipping is not widely customary in Taiwan. However, there are some exceptions to this rule:

• Dining – Several nicer restaurants will add a 10% service charge for dine-in.
• Tours – Tour guides and some service workers (e.g., haircutters, masseuses) will accept and appreciate tips, so bring cash for them.

See other essential travel tips for Taiwan before visiting.

Taiwan Trip Planner 2024

To make your travel planning easier , download the trip planner below and use it as a starting point. The planner has country-specific travel information, an itinerary, a packing list, and a map with key places pinned.

The trip planner is built on Notion, which I use for all my travel planning (I genuinely love this tool). If you don’t have Notion, creating an account is free .

Thoughts? Questions? Leave a comment below .

Taiwan Travel Guides

• 🇹🇼 Planning a Trip to Taiwan: 11 Practical Things To Know
• 🧋 Taiwan Guide: 5-7 Day Itinerary + 20 Great Things To Do
• 🏮 Jiufen Day Trip: Firsthand Review & Tips
• 🍃 Taroko Gorge Day Trip: Firsthand Review & Tips

🧋 Support Lukiih

Lists by Lukiih is a humble website that I fund with my own savings. If you find my tips helpful, I appreciate you saying thanks with a bubble tea !

Thank you so much, this was really helpful.

Glad you thought so, Harsha!

Thank you so much! Planning a last minute travel to Taiwan and this was super helpful with the recent cost breakdown and details. The pictures are great too! Glad you had a great time, now I’m also looking forward to Taiwan!

Hey SK, glad to hear this was helpful. Enjoy Taiwan; I loved it!

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The Cost of Travel in Taiwan: My 2024 Budget Breakdown

If you’d have told me back when I first started travelling that Taiwan would end up being  my favourite place on the planet , I’d have blinked multiple times in surprise.

Let’s face it: it doesn’t sound like  that exciting a place. Back then, I didn’t know anybody who had been, knew very little about it, and pictured it as an island blanketed in factories and electronics.

I was delighted, then, to discover that Taiwan is all about the dazzling cities, beautiful beaches, impressive architecture, spectacular scenery, delicious street food, and some of the friendliest people I’ve ever met . After spending four weeks on the island during that initial trip, I’ve since paid two additional month-long visits to this kickass country. Yes, I’ve spent three whole months in Taiwan and I’m still keen to return to explore further.

Having spent so much time in this wonderful place, I feel qualified to share how much you should plan to budget for a trip to Taiwan, especially as I’ve tried out several different travel styles during each visit.

I’ve spent a month travelling solo on the tightest backpacker budget I could manage, and averaged $22 a day .

I spent a month travelling as part of a couple in mid-range-priced guesthouses, and averaged $35 a day.

And I spent a month as a digital nomad, basing myself in an apartment in Taipei for a full month, averaging $50 a day .

Let’s take a look at how much of my expenses I spent on accommodation, transportation, food, and activities. First up: how to travel in Taiwan on a backpacker budget!

How to Travel Taiwan on a Budget

Taiwan was my first destination in Asia and the first place to show me just how affordable backpacking could be.

Rather than staying in the cheapest dorm room I could find, like I had been doing in Europe, I could afford to book the highest-rated hostel in town because it was just $10 a night ; I could head to a street market and find an entire meal for a couple of dollars; take a train across the length of the island for the price of a 30-minute journey back home in the U.K.

I spent $599.82 in 27 days. That’s $22.22 per day! 

Let’s take a look at my budget breakdown to see how affordable travel in Taiwan can be.

How to Save on Accommodation in Taiwan

If you’re looking to stretch your dollar as much as possible, aim to stay in dorm rooms in hostels. For some reason, private rooms in hostels and budget guesthouses in Taiwan are strangely expensive — often as much as $50 a night, whereas you’ll be able to grab a dorm bed for around $10 in most places. If you’re a solo traveller, dorm rooms are definitely the way to go, and hostels in Taiwan are clean, modern, and great value for money.

I’ve stayed in so many hostels in Taiwan over the three months I’ve spent travelling there, so I’ve put together a list of where I most recommend staying (all prices are listed in USD, as that’s where the majority of my readers are based):

Taipei:  A six-bed dorm in  Star Hostel Taipei East at $24/night         There’s a reason why this is the top-rated hostel in the city: it offers up so much for your money. What I love most about this spot is its location, between Daan and Xinyi, which are two of my favourite neighbourhoods in the city! The hostel itself is slick, modern, and well-designed, with a cosy common area and clean, comfortable dorm beds. I wouldn’t consider staying anywhere else in Taipei. Check out prices and availability here .

Taichung:  A four-bed dorm in Stray Birds Taichung Hostel at $20/night         If you’re going to check out beautiful Sun Moon Lake while you’re in Taiwan, Taichung is the best place to base yourself, as it’s expensive to stay beside the lake. And Taichung is a worthy destination in its own right, with plenty of museums, parks, and night markets to explore. Stray Birds Hostel is in a great location, close to my favourite park in the city. And it’s *beautiful* — the design is seriously impressive. The staff are welcoming and friendly, the common room is lovely, and the terrace is the perfect place to have breakfast each morning. Check out prices and availability here .  Kaohsiung:  A six-bed dorm at With Inn Hostel for  $19/night         If only every hostel was as wonderful as With Inn! The staff are what make staying in this hostel so great, as they’re always only too happy to help out with any questions, assist you with travelling to your next spot, and offer plenty of recommendations for restaurants and bar. This is yet another well-designed hostel in Taipei, with a beautiful roof terrace and garden, wonderful dorm rooms, and plenty of amenities. Overall, it offers great value for money. Check out prices and availability here . 

Tainan: A four-bed dorm at Cao Ji Book Inn Hostel for $26/night Tainan is full of excellent hostels, but my favourite is Cao Ji Book Inn Hostel. This place is particularly cool because it’s a hostel that’s book themed! There’s even a library! How awesome is that? It’s also the highest-rated hostel in town. The property’s aesthetic is just as interesting as you’re imagining, there’s a super-fun rooftop area to hang out on and chat with travellers, and it’s right beside the train station. Throw in some amazing staff and you’ve got yourself the perfect hostel. Check out prices and availability here . 

Hualien: A six-bed dorm at   Shining Forest Hostel  for  $16/night         What I love about Shining Forest Hostel was the friendliness of the owners (yes, this is a common theme in Taiwan!) It’s a family-run hostel, and Owen and his mother are so kind and welcoming. It’s in a great location, beside the train station and close to the excellent night market. I highly recommend staying here for both the owners and the Taiwanese breakfast they cook up for you every morning. So good! Finally, there are free bicycles to hire from the hostel and free coffee, tea, and cookies!  Check out prices and availability here . 

How to Save Money on Transportation in Taiwan

I used a mix of transportation in Taiwan, ranging from daily metro trips in Taipei, to hopping on a local train around the country, to checking out the high-speed rail between Taichung and Kaohsiung. If you’re on a budget, local trains are definitely the way to go.

Fortunately, trains in Taiwan are available to book through 12Go Asia , which is one of my secret weapons when it comes to travel throughout Asia. It makes booking onward travel so simple and convenient! Instead of having to buy train tickets in advance from the train stations, you can just book your ticket online instead and have peace of mind that you have a seat.

Here were my costs for transportation in Taiwan:

Ten days of metro use in Taipei: $3.60 Local train from Taipei to Taichung: $12.03 High-Speed Rail from Taichung to Kaohsiung: $26.13 Local train from Kaohsiung to Hualien: $17.43 Local train from Hualien to Taipei:  $13.00

How to Save on Food in Taiwan

Food in Taiwan is cheap, thanks to the plethora of night markets in every city. I always recommend eating the local food and doing so on the streets. Not only is the street food safe, but you’ll gain a cultural insight into Taiwanese life, too. In fact, the only time I got sick in Taiwan was when I ate in a restaurant rather than at a street food stall. Most dishes are around $1-2 per meal at the markets, so local is definitely the way to go!

For food, I paid $248.56  for four weeks of backpacking across Taiwan. That works out to $9 a day.

How to Save Money on Activities in Taiwan

The great thing about Taiwan is that many of the activities you’ll want to do in the country are free.

Entry to Taroko Gorge is free, as is the entrance to the Kaohsiung temples , as is the entrance to Sun Moon Lake, as is the entrance to the temples I visited in Taipei .

The only things I paid for in Taiwan was my bus tour around Taroko Gorge ( $7.92 ) and my minivan tour of the Lotus Pond temples ( $4 ), making my activities budget extremely low for my four weeks of travel.

While I limited most of my activities to free things, like hiking, prioritising museums with free entry, and wandering through markets on foot, Get Your Guide does list several budget tours that receive exceptional reviews.

I definitely want to jump on this Taipei street food tour  ($46), as Taiwanese food is one of the most underrated cuisines on the planet and I’ve always wanted to delve deeper into the food scene. This one introduces you to 10 new dishes! I also love the sound of Beitou Hotsprings and Yangmingshan Volcano Tour ($147), too. If you’re not confident on scooters, having somebody else show you around and explain the significance of the different trails is a great way to explore one of the prettiest parts of Taiwan. Finally, I’m totally adding this small group tour to the northeast coast of Taiwan ($77) to my next itinerary for Taiwan.

The Mid-Range Couple Budget

Several years later, I returned to Taiwan, but this time with my boyfriend in tow. My budget had expanded over that time, too, and I was looking to stay in mid-range guesthouses and hotels. When it comes to transportation, my boyfriend and I travelled across the island in much the same way as I had as a backpacker, and definitely still ate mostly street food! Activity costs were low once more.

The Cost of Mid-Range Accommodation in Taiwan

I didn’t stay in hostels while I was travelling in Taiwan this time around, instead opting to stay in the best-rated guesthouses in the country. Here’s what the costs looked like for us (this is for the total cost of the room, rather than just my share):

• Taipei : Old Door Hostel and Bar  at $64 per night
• Kaohsiung : Kindness Hotel at  $85 per night
• Kenting:   Kenting My Home at  $27 per night
• Hualien:   Aria 2 Home  at  $81 per night

Transportation

Transportation was similar to my first visit: a mix of metro use in Taipei, the High Speed Rail, local trains for much of the rest of the country, and a scooter rental in several places. Here’s my breakdown in detail:

• High speed train from Taipei to Kaohsiung:  $46.70
• Return ferry ride from Kaohsiung to Qijing Island: $1.58
• Bus from Kaohsiung to Kenting:  $10.15
• A day’s scooter rental in Kenting: $9.50
• Bus from Kenting to Kaohsiung: $10.15
• Train from Kaohsiung to Hualien City:  $17.65
• A day’s scooter rental in Hualien: $12.66
• Train from Hualien City to Taipei: $13.74
• Taipei metro costs for our 10-day stay: $10.93
• Return bus from Taipei Airport to Taipei: $9.06

Food was vastly different to my first visit! With my eating horizons now having widened to roughly 18 million times the size they were before, I dove headfirst into night market eating and surfaced several hours later with a duck tongue in my mouth. I ate mostly on the streets when it came to lunches and dinners, but usually headed to a cafe for a bread-based meal for breakfast.

My total food costs came to: $525.41.

Once more, many of the activities we did in Taipei were free, like access to Taroko Gorge, Kenting National Park, Yingge Ceramics Museum, and exploring the temples of Lotus Pond.

The only entrance fee we paid was for Taipei’s Museum of Contemporary Art, which was $1.58 .

The-Basing-Yourself-in-Taipei Budget

Taipei is fantastic for digital nomads! If it wasn’t for my extrovert boyfriend needing to know roughly 7,984 people in a city in order to keep his energy levels high, we would have seriously looked at making it our home base.

For this particular trip to Taiwan, we spent our entire month in Taipei. We booked out an Airbnb apartment for 30 days, didn’t even leave the city for any day trips, and spent the vast majority of our time eating our way around the city.

Accommodation

Our Airbnb apartment  came to $105 per night . We were in the heart of the Xinyi district, a few minutes’ walk away from Taipei 101, surrounded by dozens of cafes and restaurants, and my favourite night market in the city: Tonghua!

No real transportation costs came up during the month.

We used the metro to get around and I paid  $3.25 for a month’s worth of rides. We also paid  $15.00  each way for a transfer from and to Taipei’s airport.

Street food galore! Our main reason for being in Taipei was to eat, and because we didn’t really have much of a kitchen in our apartment, we ate out for every meal. There were lots of date nights, lots of visits to international restaurants, and many, many wanders around the night market. Western breakfasts in cute coffee shops were around $7 , lunches at restaurants in shopping malls and international restaurants around our neighbourhood were roughly $10 each, and our evening meals were predominantly from Tonghua night market and were around $4 a meal.

I spent $650 on food for the month.

All of our activities (mostly hiking in the nearby mountains, walking in parks, and wandering around markets) were completely free in the city!

And that’s how much it costs to travel in Taipei! To summarise, these are my daily costs for these different travel styles (so that means only my share of the accommodation is included):

Solo backpacker on a tight budget:  $22.22 per day As part of a couple on a mid-range budget: $34.71 per day As part of a couple based in Taipei for a month: $50.03 per day

And if the affordable prices aren’t enough to convince you to visit, check out my post about why Taiwan is my favourite country to give yourself a nudge towards booking your flight.

Have you been to Taiwan? How did my travel expenses stack up against yours?

Related Articles on Taiwan 💗 Why Taiwan is My Favourite Place in the World 👯‍♀️ Taiwan Has the Friendliest People in the World 🧳 How to Pack for a Trip to Taiwan 🏙 26 Incredible Things to Do in Taipei, Taiwan 🇹🇼 The Incredible Temples of Lotus Pond, Taiwan 🎀 Tickled Pink at the Barbie Cafe in Taipei 🏥 Eating at a Hospital Themed Restaurant in Taipei 😽 The Hello Kitty Restaurant in Taipei

Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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61 comments.

Love the three different scenarios!

Thanks! :-)

I’m surprised it cost the most to be based in one place! Just out of interest how to you keep track of your daily spending? Do you use an app or are you just meticulous at writing everything down?

I need to track most of it for taxes anyway (as a travel writer, my travel expenses count as business expenses), so I usually type everything up in a spreadsheet on my laptop at the end of the week/whenever I remember. Sometimes I use Trail Wallet, but I forget to use it a lot, so it’s mostly just an Excel spreadsheet on my laptop.

I like the different categories of budget breakdown you provided in this post! Also, a colleague of mine is in Taiwan right now and she’s sending pictures every now and then: what an incredibly gorgeous country! I can’t believe why it wasn’t properly on my radar before!

Thanks! :-) One of the greatest things about Taiwan is that it’s not really known as much of a tourist destination, so when you do visit, the locals are so excited to see you in their country :-)

I loved how you did this post in the different budget categories!

I’ve never been to Taiwan but everyone I know who has been there loved it!

Thank you! :-)

Went in Taiwan last April for ten days. I loved it so much. I wasn’t even going to consider it but I had to visit my Taiwanese friends. They showed me around, made me taste the best food, helped me book activities and were generally the best hosts. The food ohmygod so may options and so good and loving the coffee culture that’s developing. I will go back again for sure.

Isn’t it such an amazing country?! :-)

Dude I’m sold. This looks awesome. I haven’t been to Asia (except for Turkey), and I travel with my dog so it seriously complicated trip planning. But I’m defintely going to research if this is feasible for me (plus dog).

Yay! My work here is done :-)

I have read all your posts about Taiwan and the country has made it to the top of my Places To Visit list because it sounds totally awesome! Thanks for the detailed budget information, I always like to know how much I can expect to spend in a country.

Yay!! I’m so happy to hear that! :-)

I was very impressed with this information. Unfortunately, when I have used your link to the hostel you said cost you $27.28 the site shows $80 or more…So, some other expenses you wrote looked a bit too less than it is in reality. I reality would like to travel to Taiwan, but still can’t make up my mind. You have amazing information on all your blogs. I loooove all of them and wish you the best and safest travel time. Thank you very much.

Yeah, the Airbnb owner offers a monthly discount of around 50% off the daily rate for those who stay long-term. And as I said in the post, the $27.28 was my share.

Hi Lauren. Nice info, and really useful, especially since you seem way better at keeping track of your expense than i am (i do a status of assets every quarter :-) ) Since you are looking at adding these regularly, could i suggest a couple of additional info which would be useful, for comparison: first the year of each scenario, and maybe time of year), so inflation can be added (if i look at your Flip Flop hostel price, current cost from your link is 50% higher), and each compared properly. I assume you are using US$ but maybe a note. In this case it’s obviously not NT$ because of the magnitude, but it makes things easier for the reader, if you get in country with not so obvious difference AU$, NZ$, CA$, BZ$ etc. As a solo traveller i do appreciate that you differentiate the solo, vs couple scenarios as this as many impacts and allows me to adjust the info. thanks again for all your work…

Thanks for your suggestions.

Good suggestions – I had the identical questions about how old the prices were.

Great summary, though, and nice to see a variety of travel styles clearly spelled out for comparison.

Not super old — I was last in Taiwan in 2016 and updated the prices in this post a couple of weeks ago to ensure they’re accurate.

well it has always been in my list and after reading your blog it seems like i can visit it soon. Thanks a lot for such a clear budget description.

Glad you found it useful, Sahil! :-)

This is great – we’ve been inspired by your love of Taiwan to visit as part of our round the world trip and will be arriving in March, can’t wait! just wanted to ask what your absolute top highlights from Taiwan have been? We only have a couple of weeks so want to make sure we don’t miss any of the best spots. Thanks :)

Hi Lauren!! Thanks for sharing your post on Taiwan – my bf and I are going in April this year for 9 days (not including travel) and cannot wait!! We are just debating about making Taipei the base for the whole time or take the first 4 nights in Taipei then maybe do a couple of days cycling possibly on the east coast or just a few days somewhere else in the north region. In your opinion for a first timer to Taiwan – could 9 days being based in Taipei with day trips cover a variety of activities? We like hiking, biking, city activities but def lots of nature! Thanks in advance :) Kira

Honestly, either would be a great option! But yep, nine days based in Taipei would allow you to hop around and do lots of day trips in nearby regions. Public transport is fast and efficient, which makes it easy to get around.

Went to Taiwan last year and it was an awesome experience! I enjoyed reading through your article, brings back a lot of great memories. This will be very helpful to travelers looking at Taiwan as their next destination. :)

Thanks, Agness! :-)

You inspired me to visit Taiwan. I just made up my mind and booked a flight, luckily there’s a budget airline that cost me $40 for a roundtrip airline promo ticket (mla-taipei-mla). My travel will be on September, I hope I could catch a nice autumn view.

I’m so happy to hear that, Lerma! I hope you have a wonderful time there :-)

We are now visa free in Taiwan starting June. Nice! I’ll be there this June. Although I applied for tourist eVisa last month and paid for it. If I only knew we will be visa-free this June lol.

Ah, that’s such good news for you! Where are you from?

My friend and I booked our flights for Taiwan (from Canada) today! :) I’ll spend 3 weeks with her, and then 3 weeks on my own. (I am a solo travel blogger after all!)

I’m thinking of basing myself in Taipei and getting some work done for those last 3 weeks. And that part will be over Chinese New Year, so not sure what to expect… I’m bookmarking your post in any case. Thanks!

Yay! I know you’ll have a wonderful time there :-) And six weeks is a great amount of time to spend in the country, even if it’s just basing yourself in Taipei and working.

Informative post! I’ll be going to Taiwan soon for my second visit and though I’ll be staying with friends this helped point me in the right direction for my budget. Thank you!

Hope you have a lovely time in Taiwan! :-)

Fantastic and detailed post, thank you! Heading to Taiwan at the end of the year and looking to recreate the first trip you took :)

Amazing! You’ll have a fantastic time :-)

Any Idea about car hire. medium car suitable for beach equipment Lauren? Thanks you all the information by the way :)

Ah, sorry. I’ve never rented a car in Taiwan.

Oh my goodness $22 a day! That’s just amazing and divine street food as well. Hopefully hitting Taiwan next year, thanks for the tips.

Sweet! You’ll love it there :-)

Thanks LAUREN for wonderful blog, Keep sharing.

Hi Lauren! I have plans of going to Taiwan too. In fact, I was looking for a budget fare. Thanks for sharing! I’ll read from time to time.

Haha, thanks!

Great informative article! Thanks. We have plans of going to Taiwan in November. I checked airbnb room houses and all the rate/price says “(the published price) per night” .Is this price per person per night or per room per night basis? There will be two of us travelling.

I tried to contact a airbnb seller to ask but he just replied with a total computation based on number of nights. So I still don’t know.

Airbnb lists the price of the room per night.

Hey Lauren, I loved your posts about Taiwan! I am part Taiwanese and I am looking forward to learn more about my family’s culture when I visit for two weeks in early October. I plan to visit Taipei, Taichung, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan Forest, Taroko Gorge, and Shifen and Jiufen. I originally wanted to plan a budget of $100 US dollars a day but I am inspired by how little you had to spend and how much you were able to save for the rest of your stay there! I am more into nature, eating at night markets, and looking for free or almost free attractions so this was perfect! Any advice you could give before I head on my travels?

Great post! I’m about to relocate to Taipei for several months, this is a great guide to living/traveling cheap! Can’t wait!

I just have one question. How is it possible that you only spent $3.25 for a month’s worth of Metro rides, when the cheapest fares are NT20 one way via MRT, NT15 by bus, or NT1280 for the new 30-day pass.

I can’t figure how one could possibly spend less than $30-40 US for a month of Metro rides…

Oh, just because I’m a big walker and really enjoyed the neighbourhood I was in, so spent the majority of my time there. I probably only took the metro 3 or 4 times over that month and walked everywhere else :-)

My son would like to study abroad in Taiwan next year. I began looking at flights and came up with ones that costs more than $5000. Is that the norm? Any recommendations on airlines? He would be flying out of Houston.

Definitely not! I wouldn’t expect to pay more than about $500. What dates are you looking for? Take a look at Skyscanner to get the best prices and Secret Flying to see if there are any deals. There’s currently a flight from NYC to Taipei for $500 return for early next year for example: https://www.secretflying.com/posts/new-york-taipei-taiwan-426-roundtrip/

Thank you! He is hoping to be there next Sept-Jan

Those tours all look amazing but as a solo traveler it doesn’t seem like a can book most of them. Or at least it seems like the cost will drastically increase. Is there anyway to book them once there and join a group? The food tour especially seems awesome but I’d hate to pay the private tour price.

I was born and raised (mostly) in Taiwan. I’m so glad that you had such a great experience there! :) I left home when I was 16 and have been trying to visit once a year every since. The food is unbelievable :D

Taiwan always be no 1 of my bucket list. Reading your blog make me want go there as soon as possible. But I need to complete other plan first and maybe on 2020 I will go there

I’ll keep my fingers crossed for you :-)

Hi, thanks so much – I sortof had the same thoughts as you on whether there was enough to do in Taiwan so you have convinced me! It sounds amazing! And I love that it’s relatively cheap! Do you think it’s safe as a solo female traveller? Also they had a big earthquake when I was planning to go last time so am a bit nervous – any thoughts?

HI Lauren – great article. I’m planning on going here with my boyfriend next week so about 3 weeks and what probably fall under this range “A month travelling as part of a couple in mid-range-priced guesthouses, and averaged $35 a day”.

What currency have you provided the budget in? And is that per person or for the both of you?

Interesting blog on taiwan and very insightful. Will be visiting Taipei and Kaohsuing in three weeks time, any tips on local cuisine places to try and must see places will be helpful. Thank you.

Hi Lauren! Thank you for sharing great tips! I love that you included the expenses…huge help! I’ll be visiting Taiwan next year and I’ve been saving money so I have enough budget on my trip!

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Taiwan Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

Taiwan is one of the most underrated budget destinations in Asia. It offers a beautiful — and super affordable — mix of east and west, blending the culture and cuisines of mainland China , Japan , and Hong Kong . And all with a fraction of the crowds.

I don’t think enough people visit Taiwan. I spent time here as an English teacher and have revisited the country since. There is a lot to do there: hiking the mountains, eating at night markets, drinking at tea houses, lounging on beaches, and enjoying the country’s amazing nightlife. No matter your interests, Taiwan won’t disappoint — especially if you’re a foodie. The food here is some of the best in the region!

This travel guide to Taiwan can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this underrated island!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Taiwan

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Taiwan

1. Visit Jiufen

Jiufen is one of Taiwan’s most popular tourist destinations. Founded during the Qing dynasty, Jiufen boomed as a gold mining town in the 1890s. Here, you can find all kinds of historic tea houses built into the hillside. The center of the city and its historic streets and buildings are all preserved and look as they did 100 years ago. Try the snacks on offer, visit one of the many tea houses, and do some hiking if you have time. It’s a pretty easy day trip from Taipei but you should aim to come early to beat the crowds. If your itinerary allows for it, consider spending a night here so you can experience it without the daytripper crowds.

2. Soak in the Hot Springs

Especially fun to visit in winter, the Beitou Hot Springs are just 30 minutes from downtown Taipei and you can get there on the MRT (you need to go to Xinbeitou station). There are lots of resorts, spas, and inns in the area which, with a vast array of wildlife and fauna, really feel like you’ve traveled much further afield. Visit the Hot Springs Museum, the Xinbeitou Historic Station, and Thermal Valley (a sulfurous lake nearby that has walking trails) while you’re here. There are also some really cool temples here, including the tiny wooden Puji Temple.

3. Explore Taroko National Park

Located southeast of Taipei, this national park offers visitors a chance to hike through beautiful mountainous terrain and gorges. It spans almost 250,000 acres and is one of only nine national parks in Taiwan. With loads of cliffs and waterfalls to explore, it’s a really stunning place to visit. Head to the Zhuilu Suspension Bridge for some amazing views and to the Eternal Spring Shrine or to the Changing Temple for a bit of culture and history. Some suggested walking trails include Shakadang, Changchun, Swallow Grotto, and Lushui-Heliu. Entrance to the park is free.

4. Visit Taipei 101

Formerly known as Taipei World Trade Center, this was the tallest building in the world from when it opened in 2004 until 2010 (when the Burj Khalifa took its place). Standing 508-meters (1,667-feet) tall, it towers over Taipei. There is an observation platform on the 89th floor (at 382-meters high). You can also go up to the 91st floor for an outdoor platform. If you’re needing some retail therapy (and can fit anything else in your bags), there’s a shopping mall at the bottom.

5. Explore the night markets

Taipei is home to dozens of night markets. Shulin Night Market, Raohe Night Market, Tonghua Night Market, Snake Alley, and Ningxia Night Market are all worth spending some time exploring but there are over 30 to choose from in Taipei alone. The food at these markets is the best (and cheapest) in the city. So much so that a few have even been given Michelin Bib Gourmands!

Other Things to See and Do in Taiwan

1. visit taipei.

Taipei is the epicenter of the country. Here there are sprawling food markets, a wild nightlife, spacious parks, and all kinds of interesting and quirky museums. Plus, the nearby mountains are full of easy and accessible hikes. Be sure to take a free walking tour, visit the National Palace Museum, see some temples (especially Confucius Temple and Bao-an Temple), and visit the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. I can’t sing the praises of this city highly enough (I lived here when I taught English). For even more on the city, here’s my full list of things to do in Taipei!

2. Go island hopping

The Pescadores Islands (known locally as Penghu) is an archipelago off the west coast between Taiwan and China. There are 90 islands in the region, perfect for exploring on a day trip. You can take a boat tour that visits several islands in the region, allowing you to snorkel, see sea turtles, and wander through traditional aboriginal villages and explore temples galore. Expect to pay around 1,500 TWD for a one-day multi-island tour.

3. See Tianhou Temple

Located in Taipei, this is one of the oldest temples in the city. Tianhou (also known as Mazu Temple, after the deity Mazu, goddess of the sea) was built in 1746 and is one of three major temples in Taiwan from the Qing period. It’s a beautiful Taoist temple filled with mythological creatures, incense, lucky goldfish, and people paying respect to the gods. Admission is free.

4. Hit the beach

The beaches of Kenting on the southern tip of the island are the best place to enjoy the summer weather. White Sand Bay is the most popular beach and a great place to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. Other beaches worth checking out are Fulong Beach, South Bay, Dawan Beach, Laomei Beach, and Little Bali Bay.

5. See the Lantern Festival

The famous Taiwan Lantern Festival is held every February/March and involves releasing hundreds of paper lanterns into the sky. There’s also a huge parade with floats, most of which relate to the year’s animal (from the Chinese zodiac). Thousands of people gather to watch and take part. To ensure the environment is protected, make sure you use a biodegradable eco-friendly lantern.

6. Hike Jade Mountain

Jade Mountain (also known as Yushan), the highest peak in Taiwan and East Asia with its peak at almost 4,000 meters above sea level, is a popular hike. If you don’t hike, there’s a special train that takes you to the peak before dawn (150 TWD). Most people do the hike over a couple of days, however, you can do it in a single day if you wake up super early and hike but that will mean over 10 hours of hiking. You’ll also need permits in advance so talk to your hotel or hostel staff as they can help you arrange those.

7. Tour Fo Guang Shan Monastery

This Zen monastery in Kaohsiung is a massive complex with eight towering pagodas that flank the monastery’s Big Buddha (which, at 36-meters tall, is the highest seated bronze Buddha in the world). Built in 1967 and spanning over 74 acres, the complex has a spacious outdoor walkway lined by manicured gardens as well as the huge pagodas. There are also over 14,000 statues of the Buddha here. Admission is free (donations are welcome) and there’s a delicious vegetarian restaurant inside with a huge buffet.

8. Visit the National Palace Museum

This museum, located in Taipei, has a collection of over 70,000 artifacts from Imperial China. Most of the collection was brought to Taiwan during the Chinese Civil War (1929–1947). In addition to their permanent exhibits, there are also rotating exhibits throughout the year as well as a section for children. There are free daily tours in English as well as a detailed audio guide if you’d rather explore yourself. Admission is 350 TWD.

9. See the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Officially known as Liberty Square, this national monument was built in 1976 in honor of Chiang Kai-shek, former president of the Republic of China. He ruled mainland China from 1928 to 1949, and then in Taiwan from 1949 until his death in 1975. The memorial also houses a library and a museum that documents Chiang Kai-shek’s life and career. Tours in English are available daily but must be booked in advance. Admission is free.

10. Take a cooking class

Taiwan is a foodie’s dream and I always overindulge while I’m here. Noodle soups, incredible rice dishes, amazing buns, dumplings, and scallion pancakes are just some of the tasty local offerings. While cooking classes here are a little pricey, I think they are worth it if you really want to learn about the food. The cooking skills (and recipes) make a great souvenir to take home too. Expect to pay around 2,000 TWD for a class.

11. Go hiking

Taipei has plenty of hiking trails just outside town that are easily accessible. There are easy, moderate, and challenging trails, as well as both short and full-day hikes. Some suggested trails to check out are Xiangshan (easy, 45minutes), Bitoujiao (moderate, 2-3 hours), Jinmianshan (easy, 1.5 hours), Huang Didian (hard, 5 hours), and Pingxi Crag (moderate, 2-3 hours).

12. Visit Orchid Island

Located 64 kilometers (40 miles) off the southeastern coast, this lush, volcanic island offers hiking, swimming, diving, and amazing hot springs. There are also underground houses here, built to avoid the numerous typhoons that ravage the region. The island is home to only 5,000 people too. Visit the Lanyu Flying Fish Cultural Museum to learn about local culture. Flights from Taipei take just over an hour and cost around 4,500 TWD.

13. Hike Wuling Peak

For more hiking, head to Wuling Peak on Hehuan Mountain. Located in Central Taiwan, it stands 3,275 meters (10,744 feet) above sea level and makes for a good day trip for anyone looking to spend more time outdoors. The peak here is so high you can actually look down into a sea of clouds below. A round-trip hike takes around 2-3 hours. Be sure to bring a raincoat as well as water and sunscreen.

14. Explore the Northern Coastline

Head to the coast to see the otherworldly lunar-like landscapes at Yehliu Geopark. There are all kinds of unique rock formations here, including one that looks like Queen Elizabeth (which took over 4,000 years to form). It’s a popular tourist attraction so try to get here early to beat the crowds. Admission is 120 TWD.

15. Visit Tainan

This is Taiwan’s oldest urban area, established by the Dutch East India Company in 1624. Located in the south near Kaohsiung, Tainan was the capital of Taiwan from 1683-1887. There are all kinds of temples to visit here (don’t miss the Confucius Temple), several night markets, a historic old town, and a massive department store reminiscent of the Ginza district in Tokyo. There is also a nearby mangrove and wildlife reserve (it’s part of Taijiang National Park) just 30 minutes away by car.

16. Explore Taichung

Taichung is located in west-central Taiwan and is the second-largest city in the country. Spend some time walking the Parkway (a corridor of greenery perfect for walking and exploring), visit the Feng Chia Night Market, see the botanical garden, and explore the massive National Museum of Natural Science. If you’re a history buff, don’t miss the Taichung Folklore Park which is home to several traditional Taiwanese homes and buildings that showcase the country’s history.

Taiwan Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels dorms with 6-8-bed cost between 300-700 TWD per night. A private room costs anything from 1,000-3,000 TWD. Every place has free Wi-Fi and most hostels have self-catering facilities and include free breakfast.

Budget hotels start at 950 TWD for a small room with a double bed. Most rooms have AC but free breakfast is rarely included.

Airbnb is available around the country with private rooms starting at 650 TWD per night, though they average at least triple that. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 1,000 TWD (though prices average triple that). Book early to find the best deals.

Wild camping is generally prohibited but there are lots of campgrounds around the country. Expect to pay at least 300 TWD for a basic plot without electricity.

Food – Taiwanese cuisine is a mix of influences, from Chinese, Japanese (owing to the Japanese occupation), and Western traditions. Seafood is a huge staple, with squid, crab, and shellfish being especially popular. Braised pork, oyster omelets, fish balls, and stinky tofu are just some of the many dishes you can find around the country.

Food at the outdoor markets costs around 35-100 TWD depending on what you get. An order of dumplings costs around 100 TWD. Noodle soup or a basic rice dish costs around 70 TWD.

A meal at a simple sit-down restaurant serving local cuisine costs around 120 TWD.

Western food costs between 100-400 TWD. Burgers (often made with pork rather than beef) are on the lower end while pizza is on the higher end.

Fast food is pretty popular here. MosBurger (the best fast food joint in the country) costs around 165 TWD for a combo meal. Sushi, one of the most popular food options, costs 300–450 TWD for a meal. (Plates at the conveyor belt places are around 30 TWD each.

A three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant costs 500 TWD. A beer or a latte/cappuccino costs around 80 TWD while a bottle of water costs 21 TWD.

For a week’s worth of groceries including staples like rice, seasonal produce, and seafood, expect to pay 2,000-2,500 TWD.

Backpacking Taiwan Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 1,050 TWD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat some street food, cook some meals, limit your drinking, do free walking tours, and take public transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of 2,700 TWD per day, you can stay in an Airbnb, enjoy some Western food, drink more, take the bus between cities, and do more paid activities like museum visits and cooking classes.

On a “luxury” budget of 5,600 TWD per day, you can stay in a hotel, rent a car or take the train between cities, take guided tours to the islands, go diving, eat out at any restaurant you want, and visit as many attractions as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in TWD.

Taiwan Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Taiwan is an affordable country so you don’t need to worry about breaking the bank here. As long as you stick to local cuisine and limit your drinking, it’s hard to spend a lot of money. Here are a few tips to keep your spending in check:

• Skip the high-speed trains – The high-speed trains in Taiwan are super convenient but expensive. Stick to the slower local trains, which are about 50% cheaper than the HSR.
• Eat at the food markets – The food in Taiwan is world-class and the best food is at the night markets that dot all the cities.
• Avoid Western food – Western food is twice the price of Taiwanese food. It’s also not amazing so stick to the local cuisine to save money.
• Take free walking tours – Taipei, Jiufen, Tainan, and Kaohsiung all have free walking tours from companies like Like It Formosa . They’re my favorite walking tour company in Taiwan. Their tours are fun, informative, and free. Just remember to tip your guide at the end.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here needs to be boiled before drinking so bring a bottle with a filter to ensure you have safe drinking water. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to you can be sure you water is safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Taiwan

Taiwan has plenty of fun and affordable hostels. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• Formosa 101 (Taipei)
• Star Hostel (Taipei)
• T-Life Hostel (Taichung)
• Fuqi Hostel-Heping (Tainan)

How to Get Around Taiwan

Public transportation – All of the major cities have public transportation that is fast, safe, and reliable. Fares start at 15 TWD and go up depending on how far you travel. Taipei and Kaohsiung both have metro systems with tickets costing between 20-65 TWD. A single-day pass in Taipei costs 150 TWD, while a day pass in Kaohsiung costs 180 TWD.

Bus – The bus is the cheapest way to get around Taiwan. Intercity coach buses are available to all major cities around Taiwan, including Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung. They are comfortable, modern, safe, and have air conditioning (too much, usually, so bring a sweater). The two main intercity bus companies are Ubus and Kuo-Kuang Bus. For fares and timetable information, visit taiwanbus.tw.

A bus from Taipei to Kaohsiung takes around five hours and costs 600-1,000 TWD while the three-hour trip from Taipei to Taichung costs as little as 90 TWD.

Train – The high-speed trains (HSR) in Taiwan are super convenient, however, they only go down the west side of the island and are very expensive. For example, a ticket from Taipei to Kaohsiung costs around 1,500 TWD.

The “local” trains are much more affordable, often 50% cheaper. The trip from Taipei to Kaohsiung on a local train costs just 845 TWD. It’s also just 515-800 TWD from Taipei to Tainan and 675-800 TWD from Taipei to Taichung via the local train.

The HSR line doesn’t pass through city centers, so you either need to take a bus or train from the HSR station, which also costs more time and money.

Flying – Domestic flights are relatively affordable, however, they are much more expensive than the bus or train. The two-hour flight from Taipei to Kaohsiung costs more than 4,000 TWD.

Flights to neighboring Hong Kong start at 3,600 TWD and take five hours (they can be as much as 6,500 TWD so it’s best if you’re flexible with your dates) while flights to Singapore take five hours and cost around 3,500 TWD.

Car Rental – Driving here is safe, however, car rentals here are expensive, usually costing at least 1,500 TWD per day. You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a vehicle here. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Taiwan

July and August are the hottest months in the country and the most popular time to visit. Temperatures often hit 35°C (95°F) and prices are a little higher as well. It’s a great time to visit if you want to hit the beach.

The shoulder months of May-June and September-October offer the best balance of crowds, weather, and price. It’s still warm enough to enjoy the outdoors and do some hiking without getting rained out.

Winters in Taiwan are a little rainy but still warm, with daily highs around 18–20°C (65-68°F). Prices are a bit lower and it’s the perfect time to visit the relaxing (and relatively empty) hot springs. Expect big crowds in Taipei in December-January for the Chinese New Year.

How to Stay Safe in Taiwan

Taiwan is very safe, consistently ranking well on the Global Peace Index as one of the safest destinations in the world. Crimes against tourists are super rare. Overall, you are unlikely to encounter any problems in Taiwan and I never felt unsafe in the country. There are no scams here, everyone is super nice, and crime is super rare. It’s a great place to visit. My friends who live here also never have problems.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here for all those reasons. However, the standard precautions you take anywhere apply here too (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). There are numerous solo female travel blogs that can provide more specific tips.

Earthquakes are common in the region so make sure you’re familiar with your accommodation’s emergency exits. Between July and November, typhoons can occur so make sure you stay up to date on the latest weather — especially if you’re near the coast or out hiking.

110 is the emergency number for police while 119 is the emergency number for fire and ambulance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Taiwan Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Taiwan Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on China travel and continue planning your trip:

The 23 Best Things to Do in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Itinerary: What to Do in 4 (or More) Days

My Favorite Restaurants in Hong Kong

What Hitchhiking Solo as a Female in China Taught Me

7 Lessons Learned from 3 Months in China

How to Travel the Trans-Siberian Railway

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• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Cost of Travel in Taiwan? How To Travel Taiwan on a Budget!

Categories Asia , Cost of Travel , Taiwan

Taiwan had been on my Asia wishlist for years and when planning a trip to China and Japan I knew I had to squeeze a trip to Taiwan in too! I had no idea how much it costs to travel to Taiwan and I was hoping I wouldn’t find it expensive backpacking Taiwan.

However, I am happy to say that Taiwan IS a really budget-friendly country to visit! To help you work out your Taiwan Budget, it’s not as cheap as some South-East Asian Countries like Vietnam, but let’s be honest and say that these days all of South East Asia isn’t really cheap to travel, so I’d say that the cost of travel in Taiwan is very similar to that of Thailand and Indonesia and Taiwan is definitely not as expensive as nearby Japan to visit!

So let’s get into how much I spent in just over one week in Taiwan and general travel costs in Taiwan like how much is food in Taiwan and how much is accommodation in Taiwan, so you know prices for Taiwan budget travel and how to visit Taiwan on a budget! 

Find What You're Looking For Easily Here:

Explore Taiwan in a Budget!

My Taiwan Travel Costs!

I spent 8 days and 8 nights in Taiwan on a budget and spent NT$8,300 / £203.00 / $268.00 USD  NOT including accommodation.

WITH accommodation in hostel dorm rooms, roughly, I would have spent an extra £120.00 and in a private rooms in hostels, roughly, I would have spent an extra £240.00. 

This did include all of my transport costs around the Cities and Country. 2 meals a day & snacks  (breakfast was included in my hostel accommodation) and entrance fee’ s to a few things, and that’s all I needed to spend money on in Taiwan which is why the cost of travel in Taiwan can be so cheap!

FIRST TIMERS GUIDE TO TAIWAN

I’ve been to Taiwan twice. I love the country so much! I have written lots of posts to help you visit Taiwan, start with my 8 Helpful Tips For Planning a Trip to Taiwan from Start to Finish and the Best Places to Visit in Taiwan !

TAIWAN SIM CARD The best way to stay connected in Taiwan is to buy this EasyCard & Sim Card package deal in advance . You’ll need an EasyCard to get around on transport in Taiwan anyway and at the same time you can get a Taiwan Sim Card with 4G and pick them up at Taipei Taoyuan Airport when you land!

GETTING AROUND TAIWAN

The Metro within cities in Taiwan is really great, easy to use and so safe. You’ll need an EasyCard which you top up with credit to use the metro and buses. To get around Taiwan, I loved travelling by train . As a tourist, we can’t use the direct Taiwan train booking system. Instead you can go to a train station a few days before and purchase your ticket, or book online in advance using 12GO Asia !

Taiwan Transport Cost

You’ll need to purchase an EasycCard when you arrive which you’ll use all over the country on the metro and buses, this is NT$100 / £2.45 / $3.23 USD and non-refundable.

Be sure to get an Easy Card at the start of your trip in a metro station or even  pick an Easy Card and Sim Card package deal in their airport via this service .

I spent on average NT$100 / £2.45 / $3.23 USD per day on my EasyCard when in Taipei and Kaohsiung City using the metro all day.

Regional Trains

Train costs in Taiwan will vary depending on where you are visiting in the country, how far it is and whether you’re getting a High-Speed Train or Regular Train. Train Journeys from City to City will be between NT$500 / £12.25 / £16.20 and NT$1200 / £29.40 / £38.90.

If you are on a budget in Taiwan try to get trains that take longer as they will be cheaper than High-Speed Trains or look at buses in Taiwan to help with your Taiwan budget as they tend to be cheaper than trains, but slower!

Related Posts:

• 2 Week Taiwan Itinerary!
• 1 Week Taiwan Itinerary!
• Best Places to Visit in Taiwan!

Taiwan Food Costs

Night market food  .

This is where you’ll eat most nights in Taiwan whether you’re in Taiwan on a budget or not!

Prices of foods in Taiwan’s Nigtht Markets will vary depending on what it is but the general prices for one item are between NT$30 / 73p / 86c and NT$120 / £2.93 / $3.88. Most items are in the middle at about NT$50-60. I usually got 3-4 things in the night market so it can make for a fairly cheap dinner in Taiwan.

Meals in Restaurants

Decent meals in restaurants will be between NT$200 / £4.89 / £6.47 and NT$350.00 / £8.56 / $11.33, but the best thing about Taiwan is that like all Asian Countries there is an abundance of street food and small locals cafes where food is much cheaper (half the prices of above) where you can eat if you are on a budget when travelling Taiwan.

Most hostels will offer re-fillable water but a bottle of water in a supermarket like 7/11 is around NT$25.00 / 61p / 80c.

Bubble Tea / Coffee

The average price of a bubble tea or coffee from a tea or coffee shop is NT$80.00 / £1.95 / $2.60, again this will depend on where you are and what you have, it could be a bit more, or a bit less!

I didn’t drink any alcohol so I can’t tell you the costs of alcohol.

To help you plan your trip around Taiwan, have a look at all of my Taiwan Blog Posts here!

Taiwan Attraction Costs

I spent a bit of money on attractions and entrance fee’s in Taipei but not in my other two stops of Hualien and Kaohsiung at all.

My most expensive cost was the entrance ticket to Taipei 101 at NT$600.00 / £14.70 / $19.45 and then the Cable Car to Maokong in Taipei at NT$200 / £4.89 / £6.47

Taiwan Accommodation Costs

As always the biggest chunk of money will be spent on accommodation. Note again that my cost above did not include accommodation as everyone has different preferences. 

Firstly I’ll say that I was really impressed with the quality of the hostels in Taiwan, firstly when researching them on HostelWorld and Booking.com and then when staying in the 3 I stayed at.

All of them were very clean, organised and helpful in telling me about the area.

In Taipei, the price of staying in a dorm room in a hostel  is about NT$610.00 / £15.00 / $20.00 a night.

The cost of a dorm room in cities decreases a bit once you’re out of Taipei I found, for example in Hualien and Kaohsiung it is NT$450 / £11.00 / £14.50.

The cost of a private room in a hostel in Taiwan is about NT$1225 / £30.00 / $39.00, this could be less or more depending on the hostel and location but when halved if sharing a room doesn’t come to much more than a dorm room.

It seems pretty standard for hostels in Taiwan to include breakfast or offer breakfast at a good rate so keep this in mind when booking as it’ll save you money on another meal in the day!

There are plenty of hotels in Taiwan too. I didn’t look into any of these but if you are backpacking Taiwan you’ll be fine in the hostels in Taiwan whether you stay in dorm rooms or get a private room depending on your budget and preference. 

Get an idea of accommodation prices in Taiwan on HostelWorld and Booking.com  and I would recommend booking in advance to get the best accommodation price!

TAIWAN ITINERARY HELP

Here are my top Taiwan itinerary posts to help your plan your trip:

• 1 week Taiwan Itinerary!
• 18 Best Places to Visit in Taiwan!
• How to Plan a Trip to Taiwan!

TAIWAN ON A BUDGET

Taiwan isn’t the cheapest country but it’s not the most expensive either and can be travelled on a reasonable budget. Here’s my post on the cost of travel in Taiwan and how to travel Taiwan on a budget !

Extra Costs in Taiwan

I didn’t get a sim card as I found the public WIFI in Taiwan to be really good and plentiful but if you need a Prepaid Sim Card in Taiwan  you’ll be looking at between NT$300.00 – NT$700.00 / £7.50 – £17.60 depending on how long you stay and how much data you need. Basically, Sim Cards are pretty good value in Taiwan!

I personally recommend buying this EasyCard & Sim Card package deal in advance . You’ll need an EasyCard to get around on transport in Taiwan anyway and at the same time you can get a Taiwan Sim Card with 4G and pick them up at Taoyuan Airport when you land.

If your phone is locked or you don’t want to go to the hassle of getting a sim card, I suggest getting a portable wifi device for Taiwan  which you can get delivered to your home free of charge 2-3 days before you leave for Taiwan!

I hope this helps you plan your Taiwan trip or convince you to go if you agree that you can travel Taiwan on a budget!

• For more of my posts on Taiwan see:
• All My Taiwan Blog Posts

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How to plan a free and easy trip to Taiwan on a budget

Taiwan has reopened to all travelers on October 13 after closing their borders for almost two and a half years! I am so thrilled by the news as I miss Taiwan so much! I can’t wait to revisit and rediscover Taiwan, especially after I have organized a series of virtual Taiwan travel sessions with Taiwan Tourism Bureau, Singapore .

For your next trip to Taiwan, you don’t have to take pre-departure or on-arrival Covid-19 test (if you can fully vaccinated) and quarantine is not required. You just have to wear mask, take rapid antigen test, and monitor your health for 7 days.

I have received many questions about how to plan a free and easy trip to Taiwan. To celebrate Taiwan reopening, I have put together this step-by-step guide with travel hacks so you can enjoy the best of Taiwan on a budget. Time to visit the heart of Asia, Taiwan!

Table of Contents

Where to visit in Taiwan

Taiwan is more than Taipei! Other than Taipei in northern Taiwan, there are many places to visit and experience and one trip is not enough. Have you visited other regions of Taiwan beyond the capital city?

Taiwan is home to vibrant cities, charming small towns, and rich nature. Do you know that Taiwan has 13 scenic areas? These scenic areas are framed by gorgeous coastlines, towering mountains, and cultural and historical spots.

Inspired by Rick Steves’ Europe travel guides and the useful overview he uses to recommend must-see sights in Europe, I have adapted his method for Taiwan to recommend top destinations for first-time and repeated travelers. Here are my recommendations for you to start planning your itinerary for Taiwan!

One week in Taiwan (For first-time travellers)

Taipei (3 days)

• Taipei is the launchpad to explore Taiwan! With 3 days, you can enjoy a packed itinerary and check out highlights like the youthful Ximending district, Taipei 101 and the Xinyi area, cultural and historical attractions like National Palace Museum, National Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, Longshan Temple, and famous night markets like Shilin, Raohe, Shida, Ningxia, and more. 3 days is just for a sneak preview of Taipei!
• If you have more days, add day trips to Danshui, Yangmingshan, Maokong and Taipei Zoo (if you have traveling with children), and Beitou hot springs.

Hualien (2 days)

• I visited Hualien twice and both times I wish I have more time. Easily accessed from Taipei, Hualien is nestled between the Central Mountain Range and the Pacific Ocean. Taroko Gorge National Park is the star attraction in Hualien. 

Alishan and Chiayi (3 days)

• Alishan or Mount Alishan is one of the most popular sightseeing spots in Taiwan and it’s fun for first-time travelers because you can take the nostalgic Alishan Forest Railway up the mountains. Check out my comprehensive guide to Alishan to plan your mountain getaway.
• If you have more days, add day trips from Taipei to visit the Northeast and Yilan Coast National Scenic Area (Jiufen, Pingxi, Jiufen, Jinguashi, Yeliu, and Yilan). Here’s a guide to Northeast and Yilan Coast National Scenic Area and itineraries for best day trips from Taipei .
• You can also embark on day trips to Taichung and Tainan. Travel tip: A local’s favorite hiking spot, Lishan can be accessed from Taichung. Check out my guide to Lishan and the Tri-Mountain National Scenic Area here .

One week in Taiwan (For repeated travellers)

Kaohsiung (2 days)

• Kaohsiung is Taiwan’s second largest city after Taipei. Located in southern Taiwan, it’s an exciting metropolis surrounded with a dynamic landscape of mountains and coastlines.
• Highlights of Kaohsiung: Love River, Pier-2 Art Centre, Hamasen Railway Cultural Park, Lotus Lake, Qijin/Cijin Island, and busy night markets like Liuhe night market and the local’s hunt, Ruifeng night market.
• If you have more days, add day trips to Fo Guang Shan, the tranquil Buddhist monastery, and Meinong, a rustic Hakka village with lush fields and traditional houses.

Taitung (3 days)

• Taitung is my favorite region in Taiwan! Taitung embodies the best of Taiwan’s nature and culture and it’s great for “slow travel” exploration.
• With 3 days, you can base yourself in Taitung City and explore 2 major scenic areas: East Rift Valley National Scenic Area and East Coast National Scenic Area .
• If you have more days, add multi-day trips to Green Island and Orchid Island for amazing island escapades filled with snorkeling and diving, hiking, and immersive cultural experiences.  
• Check out these guides to Taitung for your trip: Rhythm of South-Eastern Taiwan: Guide to Cycling in Taitung and Top 10 Experiences in Taitung, Southeastern Taiwan .

Chiayi City and Chiayi County (2 days)

• Chiayi City is more than a transportation stop on the way to Alishan. It has many fascinating cultural and historical sites like Chiayi train station, Hinoki Village, and Chiayi Art Museum.
• Enjoy the best Taiwanese local and street food here. Here’s my 72-hour itinerary to Chiayi City and Insider’s Guide to Chiayi’s Cultural and Culinary Secrets for more recommendations.
• Other than Chiayi City, check out Chiayi County, the expansive area that surrounds Chiayi City and covers 3 major national scenic areas: Alishan National Scenic Area, Southwest Coast National Scenic Area, and Siraya National Scenic Area.

Penghua (3 days)

• Penghu is a massive group of outer islands in Taiwan. Penghu National Scenic Area consists of over 90 islands (about 20 islands are inhabited) in the Penghu archipelago.
• Highlights of Penghu: Qimei Island and its famous twin-hearts stone weir, Jibeiyu or Jibei Island and its picturesque sand bar, and paradise-like beaches. Start planning island escapades with my guide to the islands of Penghu .

Pingtung and Kenting (2 days)

• Discover different sides of Taiwan in Pingtung County! Tucked in the southern tip of Taiwan, this tranquil region hides Hengchun, the old city that’s the gateway to Kenting National Park and Dapeng Bay National Scenic Area. Spend a relaxing day at Xiaoliuqiu, a beautiful island, and venture to the most southern capes of Taiwan at Eluanbi and Maobitou.

Looking for more places to visit in Taiwan? Check out my guide to 10 best places to visit in Taiwan .  

When to visit Taiwan?

Do you know that Formosa 福爾摩沙 is the old name of Taiwan? In 16th century when the Portuguese found the island, they called it Formosa, which means beautiful island, as they were blown away by its beauty.

Blessed by the warmth of subtropical climate and cool temperatures in high attitude regions, Taiwan experiences comfortable weather throughout the year and produces dazzling flowers and delicious fruits throughout the seasons.

Here’s a summary of what you can enjoy when you visit Taiwan in different seasons.

Taiwan in Spring (Mar to May)

• Spring is gorgeous in Taiwan as it you can enjoy flowers like plum and cherry blossoms decorating the landscape. The shades of Taiwanese cherry blossoms are darker pink. White sakura flowers can be seen at higher attitude in the mountains and in national parks like Alishan , Sheipa Leisure Farm , and Wuling Farm .
• Gorgeous calla lily blankets Yangmingshan from March to May. Check out the best flower viewing spots in leisure farms in Taiwan here .
• Fruits like sweet peaches and lychees flourish in the gentle spring weather.
• Try to avoid the rainy season that starts in Taipei around May and spread southwards till June.

Taiwan in Summer (Jun to Aug)

• Summer is the festival season! Some popular festivals are Dragon Boat Festival and Taiwan International Hot Air Balloon Festival in Luye Highlands, Taitung.
• Indulge in summer activities like island hopping, swimming, snorkeling, diving, and more! Top summer destinations are the outer islands like Penghu, Green Island, and Orchid Island.
• Travel activity is high in August due to summer school holidays so book your accommodation and train tickets in advance.
• Take note that August to September is the peak season for typhoons (sometimes typhoons can also hit anytime from May to October).
• Enjoy juicy fruits like watermelons, mangoes, and longans in summer.

Taiwan in Autumn (Sep to Nov)

• Autumn starts in late September and November is the best period to see autumn colors. Immerse in fall colors in the Tri-Mountain National Scenic Area that encompasses 3 mountains–Lion’s Head Mountain, Baguashan, and Lishan. Near Lishan, Fushoushan Farm and the 1956 Maple Valley are popular sightseeing spots for autumn foliage.
• Celebrate Mid-Autumn Moon Festival in September with the locals and enjoy mooncakes and tea.
• Participate in the well known flower festival Xinshe Sea of Flowers in Taichung that runs from late November to December.  

Taiwan in Winter (Dec to Feb)

• The cool winter weather is perfect for marathons. Big scale marathons like Taipei Marathon attracts locals and foreigners.
• Winter is the perfect season to enjoy hot springs. Taiwan is covered with hot spring resorts, boutique B&Bs with baths, and even natural hot springs in the mountains. In Taipei, you can soak in the hot springs in Beitou. If you plan to head south, browse Taitung Cozy Hot Spring Festival 台東暖湯季 website to find your desired hot spring!
• Try fruits picking (oranges, grapes, and strawberries) in winter.
• Celebrate New Year’s eve in Taipei with the spectacular Taipei 101 firework show.
• The Chinese New Year celebrations usually take place in late January to early February so join the festivities. Take note that most shops will be closed on the first few days in the new year period. Don’t miss vibrant lantern festivals in places like Taipei, Pingxi, and Kaohsiung.

How to get to Taiwan?

Once you have selected the places to visit in Taiwan and confirmed your travel dates, it’s time to book your air tickets to Taiwan!

Step 1 : Use Skyscanner to have a quick overview of the types of airlines flying to your destinations and the range of air fares.

Step 2: After you have selected your desired flights, book your air tickets directly on the airline website.

Airports in Taiwan

There are 4 international airports in Taiwan: Taoyuan International Airport , Kaohsiung International Airport , Taichung International Airport , and Taipei Songshan Airport . Taoyuan International Airport is the main international airport that welcomes visitors from all over the world.

Here are some general tips based on my experiences traveling around Taiwan and my money-saving hacks. Remember to always book your air tickets in advance (as early as you can to secure good fares)!

China Airlines : China Airlines is Taiwan’s national carrier and it operates a wide network of domestic and international routes. There are flights connecting Singapore to Taipei (via Taoyuan International Airport) to Hualien, Kaohsiung, and even Penghu. China Airlines is having promotions for economy air tickets promotion so find out more here .

EVA Air : Eva Air flies a fully international network. Even though I have never travel3: by EVA Air, I heard good reviews of the airline from friends who took EVA Air to the United States and transited in Taiwan. EVA Air operates the Singapore-Taipei route (via Taoyuan International Airport) and they also fly to other parts of Taiwan like Hualien and Taitung. EVA Air offers promotions for air tickets if you use credit cards like HSBC and DBS/POSB so check out the deals here .

Singapore Airlines : Singapore Airlines has frequent flights to Taoyuan International Airport. It’s always nice to fly SIA but air tickets can be more expensive. One good to way to fly SIA is to redeem flights using KrisFlyer miles. You just need 33,000 miles to redeem Economy Saver return trip (Singapore-Taipei/Taoyuan). I have been using credit cards to redeem air tickets using miles and I’m saving my miles for a trip to Taiwan.

The credit cards I recommend for earning miles for flight redemption:

• Citi PremierMiles Credit Card : Use my code ( s1152801010N) to get up to 30,000 Citi Miles (which can be easily converted to KrisFlyer miles).
• Citi Rewards Credit Card: Use my code ( s1152801010N) to get up to 30,000 Citi Thank You Points (which can be easily converted to KrisFlyer miles).
• American Express Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer Credit Card: Use my link and earn 5,000 KrisFlyer miles with minimum spending and 10,000 miles if you are new to AMEX.

STARLUX Airlines : STARLUX Airlines is a new luxury boutique airline and it flies the brand new Airbus A330neo that connects Singapore to Taipei (via Taoyuan International Airport).

Low-cost carriers like Scoot and Jetstar

I have taken flights on both airlines to Taiwan a number of times as their flights are value for money and the flight time to Taiwan from Singapore is just 4-5 hours. Scoot has flights to Taipei (via Taoyuan International Airport) and Kaohsiung. Jetstar used to run frequent flights to Taiwan and they may resume the flights soon.

Domestic travel

There are many airlines running domestic flights all over Taiwan. Sometimes taking domestic flights to get from one city to another is faster and cheaper than taking train and other modes of transportation. There are 16 domestic airports. I took a domestic flight with DailyAir from Taitung Airport to Orchid Island Airport. It was an interesting experience flying above the ocean and islands in a small propeller plane with 19 seats!

Find more about domestic airports here .

How to get around Taiwan?

You can travel around Taiwan via convenient and affordable public transportation. Depending on which regions you are visiting, you can rely on trains, buses and ferries. Here are my insider tips to traveling around Taiwan efficiently and cheaply!

There are 2 major railway systems Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA) 臺鐵 and Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) 台灣高鐵 . Both railways have been enhancing their facilities and services to cater to international travelers and offering more sightseeing train routes.

Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA) 臺鐵

Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA) operates a reliable railway system connecting cities and small towns around the island. There are several types of passenger trains such as intercity, Fuxing, Juguang, Ziqiang, and more. You can select the train that suits your budget and time.

TRA runs scenic train lines that are popular with locals and tourists. Look at the TRA train map below to see the main stations and key train routes. The train lines highlighted in the blue and white boxes are the “sightseeing” lines.

Near Taipei, the well known Pingxi line brings you to stations like Ruifang, Houtong (also known as the cat village), Shifen for its waterfalls, and of course Pingxi old street where you can enjoy fascinating scenes of trains chugging along tracks close to the streets.

The most picturesque train routes in Taiwan are the long-distance train lines that run along the mountains and coastlines m from Yilan to Hualien to Taitung (a combination of the Yilan line, North-link line, Hualien Port line, and Taitung line).

If you are a fan of retro trains, check out Breezy Blue 藍皮解憂號 , a “romantic blue” diesel-powered vintage train that traverses the South-link line between Taitung and Fangliao station. Another unique train experience is Future Express 鳴日號 , a premium train with business-class cabins, lounge cars, and the luxurious Future Express Kitchen 鳴日廚房 that serves fine dining meals. Here’s more information about these special train and railway travel experiences in Taiwan .

Tips for TRA tickets:

• Book your tickets on TRA website or TRA app (台鐵e訂通). The app is very user-friendly and you can check train timings and book tickets with it. You can also purchase and print the tickets in convenient stores.
• Advanced reservations for weekend and special scenic train routes are highly recommended. If you plan to visit Taitung, you have to plan in advance to secure the hard-to-get tickets for the train that connects Taipei and Taitung. The scenic train ride will take 4-5 hours and you’ll be treated to gorgeous vistas of the ocean and mountains for the stretch between Hualien and Taitung. If you are planning to visit Taitung, check out my guides to the top 10 experiences in Taitung and cycling in Taitung .

Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) 台灣高鐵

Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) connects cities and towns in Taiwan with its fast and comfortable trains. It takes only 1.5 hours to travel between Taipei and Kaohsiung.

The 12 THSR stations form the “Western Corridor” of Taiwan as they connect Taoyuan and Taipei in the north to Zuoying (Kaohsiung in the south). THSR and TRA train lines complement each other so you can take THSR to city centers and then transfer to TRA to reach smaller towns.

THSR tickets are more expensive than local trains operated by TRA but you gain time and convenience.

Tips for TRA tickets

• Save money by buying your tickets early on THSR website. The earlier you purchase your tickets, the cheaper the “early bird” tickets. Check out the “early bird” promotion here .
• Buy THSR train passes if you plan to travel to different places over a few days.

Overview of Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) passes

Non-Taiwanese tourists on short-term visit (less than 180 days) are entitled to purchase value-for-money THSR passes. There are 5 types of THSR passes:

• One-way ticket : This is not really a train pass but a discounted ticket (20% off adult fare and 50% off child fare) for 1 ride in a reserved seat in a standard car between the selected destinations on the selected date.
• Flexible 2-day pass (Adult NT 2,500 / Child NT 1,250) : Unlimited rides on TSHR trains for any 2 days of a designated 7-day period.
• 3-day pass (Adult NT 2,200 / Child NT 1,000) : Unlimited rides on THSR trains for 3 consecutive days.
• 5-day standard joint pass (Adult NT 2,800 / Child NT 1,400) : Unlimited rides on Taiwan Railway Chu-Kuang Express or trains at a lower price than Chu-Kuang Express for 5 day, and on THSR trains for any 2 days within the designated 5 days.
• 5-day express joint pass (Adult NT 3,600 / Child NT 1,800) : Unlimited rides on Taiwan Railway Tze-Chiang Limited Express or trains at a lower price than Tze-Chiang Limited Express for 5 days, and on THSR trains for any 2 days within the designated 5 days.

Find out more about the passes on THSR website .

How to buy THSR passes?

• Taiwan High Speed Rail website
• Klook (Use my special Klook promo code WENDYKLOOK to enjoy 5% any Klook purchases (no min. spend; capped at USD $10). ⁣

Buses complement train travel as they provide connections to small cities and towns. There are 3 main types of buses:

Local, Intercity, and highway buses

Local buses bring you around a city or town like Taipei, Taichung, and more. Intercity or highway buses cover long distance through national and provincial highways. You can take a highway bus from Taipei to Kaohsiung to reduce your transportation cost. The highway buses are mostly operated by private companies like Kuo-Kuang Motor Transport 國光客運 , Ubus 統聯客運 , and Kamalan 葛瑪蘭汽車客運 (connect Taipei, Yilan, Taoyuan, and Hualien). You can search for intercity buses on Klook!

Taiwan Tourism Shuttle 台灣好行

Taiwan Tourist Shuttle bus service is a lifesaver for travelers who do not drive as it is super convenient. From the major attractions, local train stations to High Speed Rail stations, the shuttles take you to the main tourist attractions in Taiwan. They offer access to many scenic routes at very affordable prices.

I explored Taitung without a car thanks to Taiwan Tourist Shuttle that runs regular buses along the East Coast National Scenic Area and they provides important connections between Chiayi and Alishan. Check out Taiwan Tourist Shuttle bus routes here !

Taiwan Tour Bus 台灣觀巴

Taiwan Tour Bus offers bus tour itineraries along with the major scenic spots of Taiwan. The hassle-free bus tour packages include pre-planned itineraries, meal plans, and sometimes even accommodation for multi-day tours.

Taiwan is great for road trips as you can enjoy more flexibility and freedom to explore places in Taiwan. Renting a car is easy in Taiwan and there are many car rental shops and services. Remember to apply for your International Driving Permit (for Singaporeans) to rent vehicles and drive in Taiwan. Please take note that cars on Taiwan roads drive on the right side (Singaporean drive on the left side). Check out the traffic rules before traveling in Taiwan here and you can browse rental cars here .

Taiwan is surrounded by stunning offshore or outlying islands so enjoy island excursions and island-hopping trips to relax and experience a different side of Taiwan. You can read more about the islands to visit here and how to take ferries to the islands here .

Highly recommended offshore islands include:

• Penghu : Penghu is the most scenic and massive group of outer islands in Taiwan. Penghu National Scenic Area 澎湖國家風景區 consists of over 90 islands (about 20 islands are inhabited) in the Penghu archipelago. Start planning an island escapade with my guide to the islands of Penghu .
• Green Island : My first outer island visit in Taiwan was Green Island. It was such an idyllic trip!
• Orchid Island : My favorite island in Taiwan. This special island is home to the native Tao people, also known as Yami, who preserve the culture and custom of their island passionately. Both Green Island and Orchid Island are part of Taitung so find out more information and travel tips for Green Island and Orchid Island .
• Matsu : I have never visited Matsu but I heard great reviews. The Matsu islands consist of dozens of islands and it is known for the famous Matsu Temple.
• Kinmen : An island cluster with historical buildings and rich culture. Check out Kayla Cosmos 金門女孩’s videos about traveling around Kinmen here.

Tips for taking ferry rides in Taiwan

• Book your ferry tickets in advance for popular routes (especially in summer and during special events/festivals).
• There are different types of ferries you can choose from. High speed ferries are usually the best choice as they bring you to the island much faster but they cost more. High speed ferry rides tend to be choppy so prepare your sea sickness pills.

Taiwan is considered the “Cycling Capital of Asia” with its impressive networks of cycling routes spread all over its diverse landscape where over 70% of the island is covered by mountains. Cycling is so popular in Taiwan that 2021 was designated as the “Year of Cycling Tourism” to celebrate the cyclist-friendly facilities and infrastructure, and promote the healthy sports of cycling.

Do you know you can cycle around the island? The 968km Taiwan Cycling Route No. 1 encircles the entire island. Here are some useful websites with tons of information about the routes, sights, and facilities: Taiwan Cycling Route No. 1  website and 2021 Year of Cycling Tourism websites ( English ) ( Chinese ).

I had fond memories of cycling in Taitung, especially in Chishang and around Green Island. My dream is to cycle around Taiwan! Interested to plan a cycling trip? Check out my guide Rhythm of South-Eastern Taiwan: Guide to Cycling in Taitung and Top 10 Experiences in Taitung, Southeastern Taiwan .

Where to stay in Taiwan?

Book your accommodation as early as possible! The earlier you book, you have more options with cheaper rates. Accommodation is one of the biggest travel expenses so I tend to spend time looking around for the best deals.

Here are some of my travel tips to secure convenient and affordable accommodation ranging from hotels to hostels for your next trip to Taiwan!

Hotel rates for Taiwan are reasonable and I usually don’t have to pay too much to stay in convenient areas in Taipei near Taipei Main Station or Ximending. I like to choose hotels near major train stations (not more than 1 km away).

There are many hotel websites that you can use to book hotels. Quoting Rick Steves again, he advises traveler to use general hotel websites to research for options and rates and book directly with hotels. I try to do that for small hotel chains that I prefer like CityInn Hotel in Taipei and Traveler Inn in Taitung. But if the rates offered by websites like Booking.com are better, I will book with the platform.

Here’s a list of websites I usually use:

• Agoda : I use Agoda the most as they usually offer cheaper rates than other booking platforms. You can earn Agoda PointsMax and use them to offset the cost of your next hotel booking. Their customer service is generally responsive and friendly. Check out their discount coupons !
• Booking.com : I use Booking.com too as I find their rates cheaper than other websites and their customer service is generally responsive and friendly.
• Trip.com : Like the other websites, Trip.com offers competitive rates. Their customer service is quite good too. Join their telegram group to receive regular alerts about discount deals.
• Traveloka : Traveloka is gaining popularity. I have used them to book hotels in Singapore and some countries. Use my exclusive promo code wendywritesTVLK and enjoy 5-10% discount for your hotel bookings!⁣ Join their telegram group to receive regular alerts about discount deals.
• Expedia : I use Expedia when I find good rates (usually because of credit card promotions).

Tips to enjoy discounts when booking hotels:

• Use Skyscanner to compare and find the best hotel rates! Skyscanner shows you all the rates from a range of booking platforms like Agoda, Booking.com, Expedia and more!
• Always check if there are credit card promotions for the websites. Many hotel booking websites have regular partnerships with companies/banks (like AMEX, Mastercard, Standard Chartered, POSB/DBS and more) and they offer discounts when you book using the credit cards.
• Use ShopBack (use my link to enjoy $5 when you sign up) when you book the hotels to enjoy cash back! ShopBack is a cash back reward program that allows online shoppers to receive a small percentage of their purchases on the platform. When you click on the Booking.com link on the ShopBack website or app and book your hotels using the link via ShopBack, you’ll receive a percentage of your booking price. The cash back percentage can be quite generous from 6 to 14%! I have saved quite lot for my hotel bookings thanks to ShopBack!

Staying in a minsu is a great way to enjoy Taiwan as you can save money and experience the Taiwanese hospitality. Minsu is like a guest house, homestay or bed-and-breakfast experience. They are run my locals and they usually provide a limited number of cosy or specially designed rooms in places located outside the city like in the mountains, farm areas, and more. Minsu stays commonly come with breakfast and dinner (made using fresh ingredients from the region).

I had wonderful memories of friendly minsu hosts and their thoughtful services. During my minsu stay in Cingjing, the host invited us to join a free trip to Mount Hehuan to see snow as there were spaces in a car booked by other guests. And the most beautiful view I enjoyed from a minsu was at Bell Cottage B&B (貝爾莊園民宿) at Luye Highlands in Taitung as we saw hot air balloons floating in the sky every morning and evening during the Taiwan International Hot Air Balloon Festival .  

I used to stay in hostels around Taiwan when I traveled solo to save money. There have been some hits and misses but most of my experiences were pleasant. Hostels in Taiwan are generally clean and safe so if you are backpacking or traveling on a budget, staying in hostels is a good choice.

I haven’t used Airbnb in Taiwan. But I don’t think I can save much when I book through Airbnb when I travel alone or with a companion. I usually book hotels or minsu so I don’t have to worry about check in and out times and security.

How to save money?

Check out more travel hacks to save money for your trip to Taiwan!

Currency exchange and credit cards

Here are some of the platforms I have used to get Taiwan dollars (NT):

Wise : Wise is a convenient platform to transfer money and change currencies. It is free to register for an account and apply for a Wise debit card (just pay 9 USD for a physical card).

How to use the Wise card in Taiwan? You just have to top up your account with funds transferred from your local bank. Then you can exchange currencies easily (like Singapore dollars to Taiwan dollars) using the Wise app. You can store Taiwan dollars in your WISE app and use your WISE debit card (physical card or e-card via your phone’s e-wallet like Apple Pay) when you make purchases/payments in Taiwan. You can also just use your Wise’s auto convert feature so you don’t have to exchange Taiwan dollars in advance and you can pay using your Wise card and the payment made in Taiwan will be converted automatically to Taiwan dollars with the lowest possible fees. I love using my Wise card to make payment in Taiwan.

Create a Wise using my link and enjoy fee-free money transfer of up to $900 SGD.

YouTrip : YouTrip works like Wise and it allows you to exchange up to 150 foreign currencies with no fees. Sign up with my link to earn $5 SGD. Start saving Taiwan dollars for your next trip to Taiwan!

Travel insurance

Remember to purchase your travel insurance once you have booked your air tickets! In this Covid-19 environment, you may want to pay abit more to have Covid-19 coverage just in case if your trip is affected by any Covid-19 disruptions. Here are some travel insurance companies that offer travel insurance for Singaporeans.

1. FWD : I have recently purchased FWD travel insurance for my family. I like that I can enhance your coverage with COVID-19 add-on benefit and they have an app that facilitates claims easily. I have no issues making claims so far. Check out the policy coverage and cost here (use my link to get extra 2% discount on top of their existing promotional code TRAVEL25). If you are planning a more complex trip that requires more coverage, read their policy wordings carefully.

2. Income : I have been purchasing Income travel insurance for many years. Recently, I find that FWD offers more comprehensive travel insurance packages recently. But Income is always reliable and you can add their Covid-19 travel extension .

3. MSIG : They offer some comprehensive travel insurance coverage and rates. However, for my recent trip to Turkey, my luggage was damaged during transit and their claim process/response was so troublesome that I gave up trying to make a claim.

There are many other travel insurance options and you can check out websites like Singsaver and Moneysmart to see a summary of travel products and promotions. Sometimes these aggregator/third party websites offer quite attractive perks and discounts if you purchase through them. However, before you make any purchase through these websites, check the official travel insurance company website to cross-check the policy coverage and final cost.

Some credit cards come with complimentary travel insurance if you use them (like AMEX Singapore Airlines KrisFlyer and Citi PremierMiles) to purchase the air tickets. But please note that the coverage offered is very limited. So you are planning a long trip and would like adequate coverage, you should buy a separate travel insurance!

I hope this guide to planning a free and easy trip to Taiwan is helpful! For latest updates about traveling to Taiwan, please check Taiwan Tourism Bureau Singapore’s social media platforms regularly ( Facebook and Instagram )!

I strongly believe in empowering travelers to know better, travel better! I value privacy and transparency. The article contains affiliate links so I may be compensated to run the website and continue to create content if you make a purchase at no extra cost to you.

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2024 taipei taiwan travel guide blog with diy itinerary, things to do, tourist spots, tips and budget for first-timers.

Traveling to Taiwan for the first time this 2024? Let this Comprehensive Taipei Taiwan Travel Guide Blog 2024 with Sample DIY Taiwan Itinerary (PDF), list of top things to do in Taipei, and breakdown of expenses help you plan your trip. Best of all, Filipinos can enter Taiwan Visa-Free! Read on this post to learn more!

Updated 2024 first-timer's travel guide blog to taipei, taiwan, if you're looking for a trip to taiwan package from the philippines , this is not a packaged tour. but i could help you plan your trip diy (do-it-yourself) style. now, let’s get started., quick facts about taipei taiwan.

• Currency - New Taiwan Dollar (NTD / NT$)
• Language - Mandarin Chinese. Learn a few Mandarin words and phrases before traveling to Taiwan.
• Weather - 4 Seasons (Winter/Spring/Summer/Fall)
• Electricity - 110 Volts at 60 Hertz (uses Type A socket with 2 flat pins and type B socket with 2 flat pins and an extra prong for grounding)
• Time Zone: - UTC+08:00

Visa Requirements to enter Taiwan

Requirements for visa-free entry to visit taiwan for filipinos.

• An ordinary/regular passport with remaining validity of at least six months from the date of entry (Diplomatic & official passport holders are not eligible for visa-free treatment);
• A return ticket or a ticket for the traveller's next destination and a visa for that destination if it is required;
• No criminal record in Taiwan;
• A proof of accommodation (hotel) booking or host/sponsor's contact information /or arrangements of tour, travel, visit, events and meeting etc.
• Sufficient travel funds.

Cheap Flights to Taipei Taiwan

How to Get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei City?

Taoyuan airport mrt.

• AIR BUS: Taoyuan Airport Shuttle Bus - Taoyuan Airport (TPE) to/from Taipei City
• Kuokuang 1819 Bus: Taipei & Taoyuan Airport (TPE) Round-trip Bus Ticket

Private Car Transfer

Weather in taiwan, when is the best time to visit taiwan, how many days to spend in taiwan, taiwan time zone, useful mandarin words and phrases.

• Hello - Nĭ hăo (sounds like Nee how)
• Thank You - Xièxiè (sounds like Shieh-shieh)
• Good morning - Zǎo (sounds like Zhow)
• Goodnight - Wǎn'ān (sound like One-un)
• I don't understand - Tīng bù dǒng (sound like teeng boo dong)
• How much? - Duō shǎo qián (sounds like dwo shaow chyen?)
• Excuse Me / Pardon / Sorry - Bù hǎo yìsi (sounds like boo haow eeh si)
• Where is…? - Zài nǎli (sounds like dzaiy nah lee)
• I want to go to… - Wǒ yào qù… (sounds like wo yaow chyoo)
• Restroom - Cèsuǒ (sounds like Tse soo-oh)

Where to Exchange Taiwan Currency?

Pocket Wifi Rental and Data SIM/eSIM in Taipei

Taiwan data sim card & esim, pocket wifi rental in taiwan.

How to Get around Taipei?

Taipei transport fun pass, taipei unlimited fun pass.

• Taipei 101 Observatory

National Palace Museum

• Main Building of Chiang Kai-Shek Shilin Residence
• Miramar Entertainment Park Ferris Wheel
• Taipei Children’s Amusement Park
• Tamsui Historical Museum
• Tamsui to Fisherman’s Wharf roundtrip ticket

Gold Museum

• Yeliu Geopark

Juming Museum

• Sky Lantern Police Station Electric Sky Lantern ticket
• National Museum of Marine Science & Technology

5-DAY JOINT TRAIN PASS (THSR+TR)

Maokong gondola.

Where to Stay in Taipei?

SLEEPBOX HOSTEL XIMEN

• Mixed Dormitory - PHP 926.00 per person
• Female Dormitory for 8 - PHP 927.00 per person
• Standard Double Room, 1 Double Bed - PHP 1,806.00 for 2 persons

ANGELS' HOSTEL - TAIPEI XIMEN

• Shared Male Dormitory - PHP 512.00 per person
• Shared Female Dormitory - PHP 512.00 per person
• Shared Dormitory, Mixed Dorm (1 Double Bed) - PHP 1,617.00 for 2 persons

GRAND HYATT TAIPEI

INN CUBE XIMEN

• Room Selected By Hotel, Shared Bathroom - PHP 1,001.00 for 1 person
• Room, Shared Bathroom (Bunk Bed) - PHP 1,717.00 for 2 persons
• Double Room, Shared Bathroom - PHP 1,860.00 for 2 persons

SHILIN HOME TAIPEI

• Double Room - PHP 2,957.00 for 2 persons
• Twin Room - PHP 2,957.00 for 2 persons
• Triple Room - PHP 3,827.00 for 3 persons
• Quadruple Room - PHP 4,697.00 for 4 persons

CITY INN HOTEL PLUS XIMEN

• Standard Room - PHP 3,858.00 for 2 persons
• Elite Double - PHP 4,328.00 for 2 persons
• Twin Room - PHP 5,034.00 for 2 persons
• Deluxe Room - PHP 5,034.00 for 2 persons
• Triple Room - PHP 6,672.00 for 3 persons
• Family Room - PHP 7,562.00 for 4 persons

ART INN HOSTEL XIMEN TAIPEI

• Twin Room - PHP 1,500.00 for 2 persons
• Standard Quadruple Room - PHP 4,000.00 for 4 persons
• Family Room - PHP 5,387.00 for 6 persons

TOP-RATED HOTELS IN TAIPEI

Here are the popular and highly-regarded hotels in taipei, taiwan with excellent ratings from previous guests. you can save as much as 50% discount on published room rates when you book in advance., other hotels & hostels in taipei, here are the other popular and top-rated hotels in taipei, taiwan. book now to save as much as 50% off on your hotel bookings.

• Hotel Papa Whale - See rates and room availability
• San Want Hotel - See rates and room availability
• New Riverside Suites - See rates and room availability
• Hotel Midtown Richardson - See rates and room availability
• Sato Castle Motel - See rates and room availability
• Westgate Hotel - See rates and room availability
• Amba Taipei Ximending - See rates and room availability
• CitizenM Taipei North Gate - See rates and room availability
• Fortune Hiya Taipei - See rates and room availability
• Just Sleep Hotel Ximending - See rates and room availability

THINGS TO DO IN TAIPEI + TOURIST SPOTS & ATTRACTIONS

Taipei 101 and Observatory

Travel tip:.

Elephant Mountain

Martyrs' Shrine

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

• Memorial Hall - 09:00 AM - 06:00 PM, daily
• Memorial Parl - 05:00 AM - 12:00 MN, daily

Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall

Hop on hop off bus ticket prices:.

• 4 Hour Pass - PHP 454.00
• 1 Day Pass - PHP 1,059.00

Longshan Temple

Bopiliao Historical Block

Shilin Night Market

Miramar Entertainment Park

Dadaocheng District

Chiang Kai-Shek Shilin Residence

Ximending Shopping District

And just outside Taipei...

Side trips and day tours from taipei.

Shifen Waterfalls

Pingxi Old Street

Jiufen Old Village

Nanya Rock Formations

Ying Yang Sea

Yehliu Geopark

Top Best Things to do in Taipei, Taiwan

Visit the taipei 101 observatory.

• Taipei 101 is one of Taiwan's most popular tourist attractions and most photographed landmarks. This is one of the reasons why I've been wanting to visit Taiwan is to see and climb the famed Taipei 101 . Read more here.

Climb Elephant Mountain and Enjoy the Best View of Taipei

• If you're wondering where to get the best view of the city and of Taipei 101 , I highly suggest that you climb the Elephant Mountain . It requires a hike to the stairs to get to the viewpoint where you will be greeted with an amazing view of Taipei City and the towering Taipei 101 dominating the city's skyline. The best time to visit is during the late afternoon to catch the sunset. Read more here.

Eat, Shop, and Wander at the Best Night Markets in Taipei

• Food trip and shopping are two of the best ways to enjoy a visit to Taiwan. Forget about bars and night clubs. The night markets are the best places to visit at night when in Taiwan! The night market is a Taiwanese cultural tradition that you should experience when visiting Taiwan. Eat, shop, stroll, and immerse yourself with the night market culture as you share the experience with the Taipei locals and tourists visiting Taiwan. Read more here.

Taipei City Double Decker Sightseeing Bus Tour

• This tour is a Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour to some of the major tourist spots and attractions in Taipei. Composed of 23 bus stops and 2 routes, it gives you the convenience of taking the bus that goes to the different interesting sites in Taipei. With this tour, you can choose to hop off at any stop for sightseeing, and hop back on when the next bus on the schedule arrives. Read more here.
• Jiufen Village and Northeast Coast Tour in New Taipei City, Taiwan
• This northeast coast tour in New Taipei City will bring you to some scenic spots in Taiwan, such as the Bitou Cape, Nanya Rock Formations, and Ying Yang Sea. The highlight of this tour is the visit to Jiufen Village which is an old mining town that is now a popular tourist destination near Taipei City. Located in the mountain area of Ruifang District in New Taipei City, Taiwan, Jiufen Village is a quaint village with rich history and culture to tell. Read more here.

Shifen Waterfalls, Pingxi Old Street, and Keelung Miaokou Market

• This tour will bring you to Shifen Waterfalls which is located within a beautiful forested mountainside in Pingxi District, New Taipei City. It is popular tourist destination that is about 20 meters high and 40 meters wide, making it the broadest waterfall in Taiwan. Also not to be missed is the Pingxi Old Street which is located near a train station that is rich in culture and history to tell. You could end your tour with a visit to Keelung Miaokou Street where you could explore the different shops and food stalls in the area. Read more here.

Pineapple Cake Making Workshop in Taipei

• Don’t miss this workshop that will let you to experience the handmade process of pineapple shortcake making when visiting Taiwan. Located in Shilin District , The Kuo Yuan Ye Museum of Cake and Pastry is a pastry culture and making museum in Taipei, Taiwan. Read more here.

The Shu's Pottery DIY Workshop

• Learning pottery making for the very first time is such an awesome and memorable experience. There's no better way to learn it than from the guidance of experts and from a place rich in history. This is recommended for your group of friends, family, and even kids. Read more here.

Soap Making Workshop at TeaSoap since 1957

• This activity will surely bring out the creativity in you. It's an ideal activity and new things to do in Taiwan that the family, group of friends, and kids of all ages will surely love and enjoy. Read more here.

Blue Dye Making Workshop at The Can

• This traditional Taiwanese cloth dyeing technique can still be found in Sanxia District in New Taipei City. Because of the abundance of the dye plant called "Da Jing" in the area, Sanxia became the center of the cloth dyeing industry of Northern Taiwan during the late Qing dynasty. To keep the tradition alive, locals have set up dyeing workshops along the old streets of Sanxia to let other people learn and appreciate the art of Blue Dye . Read more here.

Best Food and Must-eats in Taipei

Din Tai Fung

Meat boss hot pot in taipei, buffet options.

• Eatogether in Taiwan
• Chao Guo Shabu in Banqiao Station
• Cafe83 at Sun Yat-Sen Memorial Hall Station
• Mantanghung Spicy Hot Pot at Taipei City Hall Station
• Jing He Jia at Fuzhong Station

Other Tours and Experiences in Taiwan

A Day at Sun Moon Lake

Yangmingshan National Park & Hot Springs Tour

Taiwan's Northern Coast

Fo Guang Shan and Cheng Ching Lake

Wuling Farm Day Tour from Taipei

Sightseeing Carpool Between Taipei and Hualien (via Jiufen)

Gaomei Wetland & Rainbow Military Community

Leofoo Village Theme Park

Thousand Island Lake & Pinglin Tea Plantation

Taroko Gorge, Swallow Grotto, & Seven Star Lake Day Tour

Qingshui Cliff Sea Kayaking in Hualien

Alishan National Forest Recreation Area

Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen and Shifen Shuttle Bus from Ximen

Sample 5 days and 4 nights taipei diy itinerary.

• Arrival in Taiwan
• Check-in at the Hotel
• City tour via Hop on Hop off sightseeing bus tour
• Dinner and Taipei at Night Tour
• Back at the hotel/hostel
• Morning walk in Taipei, go to Bopiliao Historical Block
• Jiufen Village and Northeast Coast Tour
• Jingmei Night Market Tour and Dinner
• Half day Explore Taipei City Tour
• Visit Taipei 101 Observatory
• Climb Elephant Mountain
• Dinner at Tonghua Night Market
• Join the FREE Taipei Walking Tour Historic Route
• Explore Bopiliao Historical Block
• Shop for pasalubong
• Walk around Ximending Shopping District
• Dinner at Shilin Night Market
• Prepare for departure
• Check out of the hotel
• Flight back to Manila

Taipei Trip Budget and Expenses

List of basic expenses.

• Accommodation: PHP 1,000 - 5,000 per night
• Food: PHP 500 - 800 per day
• Transportation: PHP 300 - 400 per day
• Taipei 101 Observatory Ticket - PHP 859 per person
• Half-day Explore Taipei City Tour - PHP 1,704 per person (includes entrance ticket to the National Palace Museum)
• Taipei at Night Tour - PHP 2,324 per person (includes dinner at Din Tai Fung )
• Jingmei Night Market Tour - PHP 842 per person (includes tasting 12 local snacks)
• Taipei Sightseeing Hop on Hop off Bus Tour
• 4 Hour Pass - PHP 454.00 per person
• 1 Day Pass - PHP 1,059.00 per person
• Jiufen Village and Northeast Coast Tour: PHP 2,014 per person
• 4G Pocket WiFi Rental: PHP 133 per day
• Airport Transfers: PHP 1,390 per way good for 4 persons

Sample Expenses for 14,000 PHP Budget

• Train to Taipei - 272.00
• Hostel (1st night) - 512.00
• One day Bus Tour via Klook - 1,059
• Food Expenses - 300.00
• Dinner and Taipei at Night Tour via Klook - 2,324
• TOTAL - 4,467
• Hostel (2nd night) - 512.00
• Jiufen Tour - 2,014.00
• Jingmei Night Market Tour via Klook - 842.00
• Transportation - 60.00
• TOTAL - 3,728
• Hostel (3rd night) - 512.00
• Explore Taipei via Klook - 1,704
• Taipei 101 Observatory Ticket via Klook - 859.00
• Elephant Mountain - Free
• Transportation - 100.00
• Food Expenses - 500.00
• TOTAL - 3,675.00
• Hostel - 512.00
• TOTAL - 1,112.00
• Train to Taoyuan Airport - 272.00
• TOTAL - 772.00

GRAND TOTAL = 14,086.00 per person

• Round trip airfare Manila-Taipei-Manila
• NAIA terminal fee and travel tax
• Budget for pasalubong and tips
• Food expense for snacks

You can download a PDF copy of this Taiwan DIY Itinerary Travel Guide, HERE .

Sample 3 Days 2 Nights (3D2N) Itinerary for 8,000 Pesos

Day 1 - gold museum, jiufen and miramar entertainment park.

• 06:00 - Arrival in Taipei. Take the Airport Express to Taipei Main Station
• 07:30 - Leave bags at the hotel/hostel
• 08:00 - Have Breakfast at JSP Ximen
• 08:10 - Eat breakfast at JSP Ximen
• 08:40 - Walk to Ximen Bus Stop Station
• 09:00 - Take the city bus number 965 to Gold Museum
• 10:10 - Gold Museum Tour
• 11:50 - Lunch
• 12:30 - Gather and head to Jiufen by taking bus 965
• 13:00 - Explore Jiufen Old Street
• 14:30 - Gather and take bus 965 to Taipei
• 15:30 - Arrive at Taipei's Beimen MRT Station
• 15:45 - Take the MRT Green line and alight at Nanjing Fuxing
• 16:00 - Transfer the MRT brown line and take the train to Jiannan Rd. Station
• 16:30 - Go to Miramar Entertainment Park, ride the Ferris Wheel
• 18:30 - Dinner
• 20:00 - Head back to Ximen by taking the MRT Brown Line from Jiannan Rd. Station to Nanjing Fuxing
• 20:30 - Transfer to MRT Green Line to Ximen Station
• 21:00 - Back at the hotel/hostel

Day 2 - National Palace Museum, Shilin Residence, Dadaocheng, and Taipei 101

• 07:00 - Breakfast
• 08:00 - Take the MRT to Shilin Station and transfer to the Bus Red 30 (R30) which will take you directly to the National Palace Museum.
• 09:10 - Arrive at National Palace Museum, explore
• 10:50 - Gather at the exit and take the bus Bus Red 30 (R30) and head to Main Building of Chiang Kai-Shek Shilin Residence
• 11:10 - Tour of Main Building of Chiang Kai-Shek Shilin Residence
• 13:00 - Lunch
• 14:00 - Take the MRT to Daqiaotou Station. Take exit 1 and walk towards Dadaocheng district
• 15:00 - Arrive at Dadaocheng district
• 15:45 - Explore the district of Dadaocheng
• 18:00 - Dinner
• 19:00 - Walk back to Daqiaotou Station
• 19:30 - Take MRT from Daqiaotou Station to Dongmen Station and transfer to red line to Taipei101/World Trade Center Station.
• 20:00 - Arrive at Taipei 101 and visit Shou Xing Fang for souvenir shopping
• 20:30 - Go up to Taipei 101 Observatory
• 22:00 - Take the MRT back to Ximen Station
• 22:30 - Back at hotel/hostel

Day 3 - Yehliu Geopark and Juming Museum

• 06:00 - Leave bags at the hotel/hostel
• 06:30 - Breakfast
• 07:00 - Take the MRT from Ximen to Taipei Main Station then transfer the MRT Red Line to Tamsui Station
• 08:30 - Arrive at Tamsui Station. Take the Taiwan Tourist Shuttle service 862 to Yehliu Geopark
• 10:00 - Arrive at Yehliu Geopark, explore
• 12:00 - Lunch
• 13:00 - Depart for Juming Museum by taking Bus 862
• 13:30 - Tour Juming Museum
• 15:30 - Gather at the entrance of Juming Museum
• 15:45 - Take the Bus 862 back to Tamsui Station
• 17:00 - Arrive at Tamsui Station. Take the MRT Red Line to Taipei Main Station then transfer to Ximen Station via the Blue Line.
• 17:40 - Arrive at Ximen Station/Taipei Main Station and Go to the hotel to pick-up bags
• 18:00 - Take the Airport Express Train to Taoyuan Airport
• 19:00 - Arrive at Taoyuan Airport. Check-in for your flight.
• You will be staying in a hostel for 1,000 pesos per night.
• Your food expenses is 800 pesos per day.
• You'll be taking the Airport Express Train from and to the Airport for 544 pesos round trip.
• You will be using a 3-day Unlimited Taipei Fun Pass worth 3,243 pesos. You can buy Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass here .

Breakdown of Expenses:

• 3 days Unlimited Taipei Fun Pass - PHP 3,243
• Hostel for 2 nights - PHP 2,000
• Food for 3 days - PHP 2,400
• Round trip Airport Express Train - PHP 544

TOTAL - PHP 8,187 per person

Taiwan travel blogs.

• Sample Taiwan Itineraries for 3, 4, 5 Days Tour
• 10 Free Things to Do in Taipei + Tourist and Attractions
• Taipei Taiwan Night Markets: Est, Shot and Explore!
• 3 Awesome Ways to Explore and Discover Taipei, Taiwan
• Taipei 101 & Elephant Mountain (Best Views of Taipei + Travel Tips)
• Top Best Budget Hotels and Hostels in Taipei, Taiwan
• The Perfect 3-Day Itinerary for Taipei using the Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass
• Sample 2 Days Nantou, Taiwan Itinerary using the Nantou Fun Pass

I hope this COMPREHENSIVE TAIPEI TAIWAN TRAVEL GUIDE BLOG for First-timers help you in planning a memorable Taiwan Adventure! Enjoy and have fun in Taiwan!

Follow my adventures on youtube @pinoyadventurista, 10 comments :.

Hi my husband is working in taiwan for almost 4 years and i will visit him this may 2018...in this case do i still need to show in the immigration a hotel accommodation or is it enough to show to them the address where my husband is staying as my proof of accommodation?

Great to know this TAIWAN VISA-FREE ACCESS for Filipinos is extended until July 31, 2019! I'm planning a trip soon, this Taipei Budget Travel Guide with sample DIY Itinerary is very helpful. This First-Timer's Travel Guide to Taipei, Taiwan is such a big help especially for first-timer like me.

Indeed, there are so many THINGS TO DO IN TAIPEI. I used this as my travel guide. Get to Know the City on a Hop On Hop Off Tour. Get a Killer View of Taipei from the Taipei 101 Observatory. Eat Your Way Through Shilin and Raohe Night Markets. Get Artsy at a Museum or Creative Park. Go on a Free Walking Tour. Feel Tiny at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. Planning a trip to Taiwan sometime soon? This is a comprehensive DIY itinerary travel guide that covers attractions and activities every first timer’s should not miss.

yong iti's mo is "for your eyes only" we cant even print it. enable mo naman yan para ma print ng readers and followers

yong iti portion mo is "for your eyes only" we cant even print it. enable mo naman yan para ma print ng readers and followers, i mean not the whole post

Hi. Me and my brother are planning to travel to Taiwan next month. It will my first time while second trip for my brother because he's already been to SG last year. Question, cos i'll be really on a tight budget for this trip like everything will be budgeted. Im just afraid that i'll be checked regarding my financial capability. Well, im actually employed for two years already but i dont have that "show money" thing. Is it okay? Thank you so much.

Hi, paano po kapag sa apartment ng bf/gf ka magtitigil for the rest of your vacation? Okay lang po bang sabihin na you'll be staying at your boyfriend's or girlfriend's place?

I love how detailed you are when explaining everything! Thank you for this! Excited to visit Taiwan again!

Thank you for this guide! Super detailed and helpful! God bless 🙏

thank you for this is very helpful. can i ask if how much money needed for my bank to not get offloaded if i want to travel i taiwan.

Looking for Budget Travel Guide Blogs, Hotel Reviews, and Sample DIY Itineraries? Welcome to Pinoy Adventurista, "Your Next Ultimate Adventure Starts Here!" Pinoy Adventurista is one of the Top Travel Blogs in the Philippines and the World. In 2013, he visited all the 81 provinces in the Philippines.

Jea Wanders

A Travel & Food Blog by Jec & Dea

Taiwan Itinerary & Budget 5D4N + Travel Guide

Taiwan has been on our bucket-list ever since it opened it’s doors to Philippine passport holders. Meaning, Filipinos could enjoy visa-free entry to Taiwan for up to 14 days, but only for a trial period which was until July 2018 only. We missed the trial period but it seemed Taiwan really wanted to see us so visa-free privilege was extended until July 2019!

Update: Visa-free privilege is extended until July 2020!

Our Taiwan Trip Summary

Our trip consisted of Taipei City, Taichung, Yangmingshan, and Northeast tour. We stayed for 5 days and 4 nights at King Plaza Hotel , a budget hotel with good location and comfortability. We spent around 18,000  PHP  (≈10,760 NTD or 350 USD) per person including airfare, travel tax, hotel accommodation, transportation, food, tours, pocket wifi rental, admission fees, pasalubong , everything (will share breakdown later in this post).

Some of the highlights on our trip were the cherry blossoms, THSR or Taiwan High Speed Rail train experience, night markets, and of course, the Northeast Coast tour!

Tip: You can book your flight to Taipei via 12Go Asia for a hassle-free booking experience!

There are lots of places to stay around Taipei that you can choose according to your budget and location preferences. A common tip is to choose a hotel close to an MRT station.

You can also find discounted rooms in Taipei via Agoda. It’s easy, convenient, and cheaper! You may begin your search below.

And here’s a route map of Taipei MRT.

Here’s a map of the places we covered, including the transportation terminals. Click the icon on top left corner to see legend.

Taiwan Itinerary

The original game plan was to have a half-day Taipei City tour on our first day (Chiang Kai Shek, Sun Yat Sen, Taipei 101, Elephant Hill). But due to delays in Taoyuan Airport immigration (there were huge lines), it was already 3pm when we started our tour.

We did not expect the huge lines to think that it was Monday in a first world country. The immigration process was fast though, only took about 3 minutes, while falling in line took more than an hour! Then after the immigration, another line for Klook and KKday vouchers. Well, I thought this only happens in the Philippines.

Nonetheless, hats-off to Cebu Pacific. No delayed flights, we arrived at our destination on time! Good job!

Note: Philippines and Taiwan have no time difference

DAY 1 –  Chiang Kai Shek, Hangzhou Xiao Long Bao, & Feng Wang Pineapple Cakes

March 11, 2019 (Monday)

07:30 AM Departure from Manila 10:00 AM Arrival at Taoyuan Airport 12:30 PM  Board MRT to Taipei City 01:30 PM Arrive at Taipei Main Station; Check-in at King Plaza Hotel ; Quick rest 03:10 PM  Board MRT (Red line) from Zhongshan Station to Chiang Kai Shek Station 03:30 PM Arrive at Chiang Kai Shek Memorial Hall ; Explore; Photo-ops 04:45 PM  Early dinner at Hangzhou Xiao Long Bao (just beside CKS Memorial Hall) 05:20 PM  Pineapple cake tasting at Feng Wang Pineapple Cakes (we also bought a box) 05:30 PM  Back to Chiang Kai Shek for cherry blossoms 06:00 PM  Board MRT (Red Line) from Chiang Kai Shek Station to Taipei Main Station 06:20 PM Arrive at Taipei Main Station; Reserve THSR Seats for tomorrow 09:00 PM Lights off

We redeemed our THSR (Taiwan High Speed Rail) tickets and reserved our seats in advance so that we could go straight at the boarding gate the next day. We chose the 8AM schedule for Taipei to Taichung, and 2PM for Taichung to Taipei.

In case you missed your schedule, you can still board the train at the non-reserved seats. The seats there are just the same as the reserved ones, only that it’s a first come first serve basis.

THSR operates from 5:00 am to 11:30 pm. Train leaves every 30 minutes.

Note: Our THSR vouchers were booked ahead of time (few days before our flight) via Klook . THSR vouchers purchased from Klook are not actual THSR tickets so you still need to queue at the ticket booth. Advantage? It’s cheap ! We got THSR tickets for only 889 PHP each via Klook. Regular price is 750 NTD (≈1,200 PHP) if you purchase at the THSR station. So we saved around 300 PHP per way, a total of 1,200 PHP for the two of us. Thanks Klook!

DAY 2 –  Zhongshe Flower Market & Tai’an Cherry Blossoms

March 12, 2019 (Tuesday)

07:00 AM Breakfast buffet at King Plaza Hotel 08:00 AM  Board THSR train from Taipei Main Station to Taichung Station 09:00 AM Arrive at Taichung Station; Transfer to TRA train (just 5-10min walk) 09:20 AM  Board TRA train from Xinwuri Station to Tai’an Station 10:20 AM Arrive at Tai’an Station; Walk to Zhongshe Flower Market 10:50 AM Arrive at Zhongshe Flower Market ; Explore; Photo-ops 12:30 PM Lunch at a local restaurant (no english name) in front of Zhongshe FM 01:20 PM Back to Zhongshe Flower Market 02:00 PM Taxi to Tai’an Police Station/Tai’an Sakura 02:10 PM  Arrive at Tai’an Police Station/Tai’an Sakura;  Explore; Photo-ops 03:00 PM Taxi to TRA Tai’an Station; Wait for train 04:15 PM  Board TRA train from Tai’an Station to Xinwuri Station 05:15 PM  Arrive at Xinwuri Station; Transfer to THSR Station 05:30 PM  Board THSR train from Taichung Station to Taipei Main Station 06:30 PM Arrive at Taipei Main Station; Quick rest at hotel 07:30 PM Dinner at Ningxia Night Market 09:00 PM Lights off

As you can see, we missed our 2pm THSR schedule for Taichung to Taipei Main Station. That’s okay as long as you board the train within the day. We took the non-reserved seats this time which was still no hassle as the train wasn’t full.

DAY 3 –  Yangmingshan + Taipei City Short Trip

March 13, 2019 (Wednesday)

07:00 AM Breakfast buffet at King Plaza Hotel 08:00 AM  Board MRT (Red line) from Zhongshan Station to Jiantan Station 08:15 AM  Arrive at Jiantan Station; Wait/queue for bus going to Yangmingshan Park 09:00 AM  Board R5 Bus bound to Yangmingshan bus terminal 10:00 AM  Arrive at Yangmingshan bus terminal; Walk to Flower Clock 10:15 AM  Arrive at Yangmingshan Park ; Explore Yangming Fountain and Flower Clock 12:00 PM  Board a bus to Taipei Main Station 01:00 PM  Arrive at Taipei Main Station; Lunch at TKK Fried Chicken 02:00 PM  Boart MRT (Red line) to Taipei 101 Station 02:15 PM  Arrive at Taipei 101 Station; Walk to Taipei 101 Building; Photo-ops 02:45 PM  Walk to Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall 03:00 PM  Arrive at National Dr. Sun Yat Sen Memorial Hall ; Explore; Cherry blossoms 04:15 PM  Board MRT (Blue line) from Sun Yat Sen Station to Ximen Station 04:30 PM  Arrive at Ximen Station; Explore Ximending Night Market 06:00 PM  Dinner at Modern Toilet Restaurant 07:00 PM  Explore more of Ximending 09:00 PM  Lights off

Our original itinerary for Day 3 was Yangmingshan and Tamsui tour. But since we failed to see Taipei 101 on our first day (it’s something we cannot miss) and there’s no other day we can visit that landmark, we cancelled our Tamsui trip and proceeded back to Taipei City.

DAY 4 –  Yehliu, Shifen, & Jiufen Day Tour

March 14, 2019 (Thursday)

07:00 AM Breakfast buffet at King Plaza Hotel 08:30 AM  Meet-up with KKday tour organizer at Taipei Main Station East Gate 1 08:45 AM Departure from Taipei Main Station; Start Northeast Tour 10:00 AM  Arrive at Yehliu Geopark ; Explore; Photo-ops 11:00 AM  Departure from Yehliu Geopark 11:50 AM  Arrive at Shifen Old Street; Sky Lantern ; Quick lunch 01:00 PM  Arrive at Shifen Waterfall ; Explore, Photo-ops 01:50 PM  Depart from Shifen 02:30 PM  Arrive at Jiufen Old Street ; Explore; Street foods 04:00 PM  Have some coffee at Family Mart (so cold in Jiufen, coffee much needed) 06:00 PM  Have some tea at Skyline Tea House (fronting Amei Tea House) 07:00 PM  Explore more of Jiufen at night 08:00 PM  Depart from Jiufen via public bus 09:30 PM  Arrive at Taipei City; Board MRT (Green line) from Beimen Station to Zhongshan Station 11:00 PM  Lights off

Our Day 4 was set for Northeast Tour which we availed from KKday. It was an exciting and hassle free tour! Yehliu Geopark, Shifen Old Street & Waterfall, and Jiufen Old Street are located quite far from each other, thus, difficult to DIY. Not to mention there are no direct trips going to each site. This tour, in all honesty, was my most favorite!

This KKday tour was set to end at 5:30 PM, which means no opportunity to witness the beauty of Jiufen Old Street at night time. So what we did was skip the KKday tour-bus back to Taipei City. We just took a public bus from Jiufen bus terminal (near Family Mart) bound to Taipei City.

We were supposed to book the Northeast Tour via Klook but upon reviewing the package inclusions, Shifen Waterfall was not included but had the pineapple cake making in the itinerary. Since our desire to see Shifen Waterfall outweighs the pineapple cake making experience, we decided to book in KKday.

Note: At Skyline Tea House, they don’t serve meals for non-chinese/taiwanese guests. Only teas. I’m just not sure why.

DAY 5 – March 15, 2019 (Friday)

06:00 AM  Board MRT to Taoyuan Airport 07:00 AM  Arrive at Taoyuan Airport; Breakfast at Food Court 08:00 AM  Check-in; Immigration; Wait for boarding 10:30 AM  Board plane back to Manila 01:00 PM  Arrive at NAIA

No more tours on Day 5.

Budget Breakdown

I will use PHP currency because most of our expenses were paid in PHP via advance online booking in Cebu pacific, Agoda, Klook, and KKday.

Exchange rate varies from time to time. In our case, we withdrew cash from ATM at Taoyuan Airport using BDO MasterCard. Exchange rate was around 1.733 PHP per 1 NTD. Plus BDO service fee of 3.5 USD (≈182 PHP) per transaction. Exchange rate at NAIA money changer was 1.95 PHP per 1 NTD, which would be a big loss for us in case we choose to exchange money there.

You may also exchange your PHP to USD at NAIA, then USD to NTD at Taoyuan Airport.

Plane Ticket : It was a promo ticket that we availed during Cebu Pacific 12.12 sale

Travel Tax : We opted to pay this online to skip the long lines at the airport, but of course with a convenience fee of 100 PHP per person

King Plaza Hotel : The cheapest we can find when considering location, buffet breakfast, and bathtub! Eliminating the breakfast in our food budget was a big advantage for us. You can book rooms at King Plaza Hotel here .

Pocket WiFi : We availed this here . Do take note that price varies (minimally) from time to time along with exchange rate.

EasyCard + 1way Airport MRT Ticket:   We availed this here . Do take note that EasyCard is empty so you still need to top-up load in any 7-Eleven and Family Mart stores. Price also varies (minimally) from time to time along with exchange rate.

THSR Vouchers: We availed this here . Price varies (minimally) from time to time along with exchange rate.

Northeast Taiwan Day Tour Package:  We availed this here . Price varies (minimally) from time to time along with exchange rate.

Yehliu Geopark Admission Ticket:  We availed this here . Price varies (minimally) from time to time along with exchange rate.

EasyCard Load:  We initially topped-up 300 NTD load, then additional 200 NTD when it was near empty. You will see your remaining load whenever you tap your card at MRT, bus, 7-Eleven, Family Mart, and any stores accepting EasyCard payments. Note that you can only top-up a minimum of 100 NTD per transaction. Unused load is refundable but the card deposit is not (instant souvenir!). Our 500 NTD load was basically spent for train rides (except THSR), bus rides, and pasalubong (at a grocery store with “24” in its name).

Zhongshe Flower Market Entrance Fee:   Price is 150 NTD during tulip season. It’s cheaper during non-tulip season (around 120 NTD).

Shifen Lantern: Price depends on the number of colors. Cheapest is 100 NTD for 1 color. We didn’t want to spend much here since we just want to experience it and it’s not of a big importance for us.

Food Budget:   460 NTD (≈800 PHP) per person per day was more than enough for us. Foods were surprisingly filling even without rice! With that budget, we were able to eat some of Taiwan’s food trademark: Xiao Long Bao, Bingsu (Snow Ice), Stinky Tofu, Milk Tea (everyday!), and so much more!

And that’s pretty much it! It’s not the cheapest way to explore Taiwan but it’s not luxurious as well. If it’s your first time visiting Taiwan, this itinerary may suit you. You may also add Maokong Gondola, Tamsui, and Alishan if you will be staying a little longer.

You see, Taiwan is not so difficult to DIY because of their very efficient (and fast) transportation system!

If I will be asked to turn back time, I’d exchange Yangmingshan to Maokong Gondola (given that we need to return to Taipei City in the afternoon).

How about you? Have you also explored Taiwan? How’s your first Taiwan trip? Share it in the comments!

Are you in Pinterest? Pin it for later!

Read Next . . .

More international travel content:

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• Tokyo DIY City Tour for 2 Days
• Kimono Experience in Tokyo
• Mt. Fuji DIY Day Tour from Tokyo
• Karuizawa, Nagano Day trip
• Nikko,Tochigi Day Trip

Hi there! Some of the links in this website are affiliate links. This means I will earn a commission if you decide to book through my links, at no additional cost to you. This helps me to continue sharing useful guides and stories on this blog. Thank you for your support! . Ready to travel? Find great accommodation deals in Agoda , destination activities via Klook , and easy transportation options via 12Go Asia ! .

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About Author

Hi, I'm Dea! A traveler who loves good food and an electronics engineer based in PH. I like creating itineraries and daydreaming about the places. As weird as it might sound, I find the planning part as enjoyable as the trip itself. I love sunsets, beaches, and staycation trips. And I'm a worshipper of God—the source of my everything! I once wandered aimlessly in life, until Jesus found me! Now, I just wander around wonderful places as I marvel at His creation ❤️

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18 Comments

You have a new theme? it’s beautiful and your blog is informative and beautiful photos. Keep safe!

Glad you appreciate the new look. Thank you! 😊

Thank you for posting a very detailed Taiwan IT…. really very informative and very helpful. Looking forward to enjoying Taiwan with all your notes and recommendations.

Hi Bonita. Glad you find it informative and helpful. Happy travels! 🙂

wow very informative kesa magbook ako ng package 🙂 Thank you so much

Thank you! Enjoy your vacay 🙂

Awesome Day Dea!

Your blog is such an ease on my perplexing mind trying to weave our trip this coming Feb. Please continue doing so. Lovely photos.

Sam (aka Godheard Manalo)

Glad to help! Thank you for the compliments, Sam. Have a great trip to Taiwan! 😊

My husband and I are planning on a 5D4N trip to Taiwan on the 15fh of this month and while searching for a perfect itinerary I came across your blog. For first timers like us to explore Taiwan, your post is really very informative and of great help. We will surely take note of your recommendations and what you’ve shared for us to enjoy this trip. Been considering to look into Klook and the King Plaza Hotel (we are on a budget too!😂). Looking forward to the night markets for our food trips and we want to experience the Modern Toilet Restaurant too. Loved you photos by the way. 👍

Thank you again for the great ideas. God bless!

Hi, Kathy! I appreciate your feedback 😊 I’m so glad this post helped you in any way. If you have other questions I’d be willing to help the best way I could. Enjoy your trip with your hubby! God bless you 😊

Hi Dea! Looks like you packed quite a bit in your short trip to Taiwan. Loved your pictures and the blossoms look amazing. A very well planned and written post. Cheryl

Thanks, Cheryl! Appreciated the compliments. Thanks for dropping by! 🙂

Lovely and very informative post! It was so nice you got to go to Zhong She Flower Market! 💖🌸

Thanks! It was a lovely place indeed. Thanks for dropping by 🙂

You explored Taiwan more than I did! Very detailed post! Keep exploring and blogging. More power!

Taiwan is a small country with unlimited beauty! We’ve only seen very little of it 😉 Keep exploring and sharing too! God bless! 🙂

This post is very detailed and informative! I also loved your pictures (lalo with the cherry blossoms <3 )

Btw, thank you for stopping by my blog 🙂 I am glad to have met a Filipino blogger here on WordPress 🙂 More power to you!

Loved you photos too! I haven’t heard about Qingjing Farm until I saw your link comment on my FB post. Thanks for sharing. Keep it up! 🙂

Thank you too for stopping by. God bless you! 🙂

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Welcome traveler!

We're Andre & Lisa, adventurers and experienced budget travelers.

We have over two decades of travel experience and  since 2018 have led a full-time nomadic lifestyle.

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TAIWAN TRAVEL GUIDE

Country Introduction

Taiwan is a vibrant island nation where ancient traditions meet cutting-edge modernity. Underrated by Western travellers, but as we discovered, those who make it here are in for a real treat. It is no secret why the old name of Taiwan, Formosa, which comes from the Portuguese Ilha Formosa for "beautiful island", was chosen. Nestled in the heart of East Asia, Taiwan boasts an array of breathtaking landscapes, from the lush, mountainous terrains of Taroko National Park and Gorge to the serene, sun-kissed beaches of Kenting. From the bustling metropolitan city of Taipei to the incredible beauty of nature at Yangmingshan National Park, you are sure to enjoy your visit to Taiwan. Top it off with sensational food, traditional festivals, and exuberant temples and you might just think this is the best of all of Asia on one tiny island.

Taiwan's rich cultural tapestry is woven from its indigenous heritage, historic Chinese influences, and contemporary global trends, offering visitors a unique and diverse experience. Beyond its cultural and culinary delights, Taiwan is renowned for its warm hospitality. The friendly locals are always ready to share their rich customs and guide you through their beautiful homeland.

We spent just over a month exploring the north and northeast regions of Taiwan during April and May 2019. As the rainy season was approaching early, we postponed venturing south, but will definitely be back to explore more of this wonderful country.

DO YOU NEED A VISA FOR TAIWAN?

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Let iVisa take the pain out of travel planning and assist you with Electronic visas, Travel Authorizations, Visas on Arrival, and even Paper Visas. They can also help with Health Declarations and Embassy Registrations. If you're from the US, they provide a One-Stop Shop to renew your Passport securely and error-free.

⬇️ REGIONAL GUIDES ⬇️

Travel guide.

⬇️ COUNTRY GUIDE ⬇️

Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (NT$) - Current conversion rate here .

Electricity:  110V AC electricity. Power outlets are both flat two-prong sockets (type A) and flat three-prong sockets (type B) which will also accept type A plugs. Be sure to pack a universal travel adaptor so you can still use all your electronic gadgets.

Safety:  Most parts of Taiwan are incredibly safe to travel in. Even petty crime rates are fairly low, but pick-pocketing and bag-snatching do occur, especially in locations frequented by tourists, so keep your belongings close. Whatever you do, don’t travel without travel insurance! We would suggest checking out World Nomads  or SafetyWing , for travel insurance as they have the best coverage for active travellers.

Natural Disasters : Taiwan is located in the Ring of Fire, which makes the tiny island one of the most earthquake-prone places in the world. There are also risks of typhoons, especially from July to November, and tourists are recommended to refrain from visiting the mountains during these periods.

Language:  The official language of Taiwan is Taiwanese Mandarin, which is a variety of Mandarin Chinese. However, the native language of about 70% of the population is Taiwanese Hokkien. Very little English is understood or spoken, particularly outside of the main tourist areas, so it can be a bit of a challenge to get by in most of Taiwan. Be sure to have Google Translate at hand!

Fun Fact : In Taiwan, the number 4 (like the number 13 in America) is considered unlucky!

RELATED POSTS:

How to get around TAIWAN

Visit TAROKO NATIONAL PARK, Taiwan

What to see and do in TAIPEI

Taiwan Budget Report (31 nights) 2019

Public Holdays

1 January, Republic Day/New Year’s Day

28 February, Peace Memorial Day

4 April, Children’s Day

1 May, Labour Day

10 October, National Day (Double Tenth Day)

There are also several observances that are widely observed (the dates of these holidays vary from year to year):

Chinese New Year

Tomb Sweeping Day (Qing Ming)

Dragon Boat Festival

Mid-Autumn Moon Festival

Hungry Ghost Festival

Taiwan is known for its myriad of festivals and holidays which include traditional and modern ones, those originating in ancient China and the West, aboriginal festivals, farm & temple fairs as well as art and music festivals. Participating in these festivals may prove to be some of your most memorable Taiwan experiences. Here are some of the most noteworthy ones:

Chinese New Year:  This is the most important festival of the year and many shops and restaurants remain closed for three days. The best time for visiting and experiencing the atmosphere is the days leading up to the festival as well as the fourth to fifteenth days after when you can enjoy listening to Taiwanese New Year songs. (Jan / Feb)

Ching Ming Festival: Also known as Tomb-Sweeping Day (4 / 5 April), Taiwanese will pay respects at their ancestors' graves.

Buddha's Birthday:  Colorful but simple ceremonies are held at Buddhist monasteries that generally consist of washing a statue of the Buddha. Celebrated on the 8th day of the 4th month of the lunar calendar (April / May).

Dragon Boat Festival:  This festival honours Qu Yuan, a patriotic official from the state of Chu during the Warring States period of Chinese history who committed suicide by jumping into a river when Chu was conquered by Qin. Dragon boat racing takes place and rice dumplings are traditionally eaten on this 5th day of the 5th month of the lunar calendar (May / June).

Hungry Ghost Festival:  This festival runs throughout the 7th month of the Chinese calendar (August). It is believed that the gates of heaven and hell open during this period allowing hungry ghosts to roam freely in the living world. In order to appease the ghosts and prevent misfortune, many Taoists and Buddhists will offer food and burn joss paper. Traditional Chinese performances such as opera and puppet shows are also held to appease these wandering spirits.

Mid-Autumn / Moon Festival:  Legend has it that on this day, Chang'e, known as the Moon Goddess of Immortality, fled to the moon and it is believed that the moon shines brightest on this day. The festival is celebrated with many lanterns which are quite a beautiful sight. Mooncakes are also eaten on this day so be sure to try some. Celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar (Sept / Oct).

Double Ninth Day : This day is also known as Chongyang Festival and is celebrated on the 9th day of the 9th lunar month. It is a day to respect and remember ancestors.

QUICK BOOKING RESOURCES

SEASONS AT A GLANCE

Most destinations have different times of the year when they’re more or less popular with tourists. 

Peak Season

Shoulder Season

Off Peak Season

BEST TIME TO VISIT TAIWAN

Best time to visit

The best time to visit Taiwan is during Spring and Autumn when the weather is warm and pleasant and it is the shoulder season for tourism which means it’s not that busy.

Spring  (March to May) is a beautiful season in Taiwan as the colours bloom in full force. For those who love to hike, this is the best time to visit Taroko National Park, Yangmingshan National Park, the Alishan National Scenic Area, and the Elephant Mountain. The blooming of cherry blossoms, especially in Alishan and Yangmingshan National Park. This season is also great for visiting night markets and exploring the scenic beauty of Sun Moon Lake. Towards the end of May and June, the rainfall starts increasing in frequency. The Dragon Boat Festival also happens in May / June.

Summer (June to August) arrives towards the end of June and the temperatures go up quite a bit, and the rainfall also increases. The weather in Taiwan over these months will be hot and humid, with June being the rainiest month. The weather is slightly more bearable in the northern part of the country. While the weather can be intense, summer is perfect for beach activities in Kenting and exploring Taiwan’s eastern coast. Peak tourist season is considered to be from July to August but it can be incredibly hot and humid during these months, and hotel rates are also higher. The Dragon Boat Festival also happens in May / June. Typhoons are also common during this season, so be sure you check the weather forecast before travelling.

Autumn (September to November) sees the entire country beginning to cool down and despite the occasional shower, there is much less rain during this period. The southern part of the country remains warm, while the north begins to cool down. This is a great time to visit south and east Taiwan, especially Taroko National Park, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan National Scenic Area, the Yushan (Jade Mountain) or exploring tea plantations in Maokong. September celebrates the Birthday of Confucius, and October the Mid-Autumn Moon Festival.

Winter (December to February) is considered the low tourist season so this is when to visit Taiwan if you want to travel on a budget, as there will be great discounts all over the country. Depending on where you are, it may be rather wet though. December is the coldest month in Taiwan and it gets rather chilly in the north, but the temperature is still mild compared to European winters. The biggest attraction of this season is the hot springs, in particular, Beitou.  There are also amazing mountain retreats at Yangmingshan National Park. The southern beaches will be significantly warmer and drier than the north. The Chinese New Year (December - January) is a wonderful celebration to experience all across the country.

Some additional considerations to keep in mind:

Typhoon Season : Typically from July to September, typhoons can bring heavy rain and strong winds. If you plan to visit during this period, keep an eye on weather forecasts and be flexible with your travel plans.

Festivals : Taiwan hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, such as the Lantern Festival in February/March, the Mid-Autumn Festival in September/October, and the Double Ten Day in October. These festivals offer unique cultural experiences.

BEST TIME FOR:

Snow Sports

Taiwan offers a unique opportunity for snow sports enthusiasts, particularly during the winter months. The winter season typically occurs from December to February, when Taiwan’s higher elevations receive the most significant snowfall. January is considered the coldest month.

The most renowned location for snow in Taiwan is Hehuanshan, a high mountain area where snowfall is more common and where there was once a ski lift in operation. While skiing and snowboarding facilities are not as prevalent as in other countries, there are areas like Snow Mountain and the Aurora Ski School that cater to winter sports. However, it’s important to note that snowfall in Taiwan is not guaranteed and is usually limited to the highest peaks. Therefore, while there are opportunities for snow sports, they are not as extensive or reliable as in countries with colder climates. Additionally, indoor ski schools like City Ski in Taichung provide opportunities for skiing and snowboarding lessons and experience.

While Taiwan itself has limited opportunities for snow sports, there are several excellent locations in nearby countries that are known for their snow sports facilities, such as:

Japan : Japan is renowned for its snow quality and has numerous ski resorts. Some of the top ones include:

Tomamu in Shimukappu

Kagura in Chubu

Shiga Kogen and Happo One in Nagano

Niseko Ski Resort in Niseko

Rusutsu Resort in Rusutsu

Kiroro Ski Resort in Akaigawa

South Korea : South Korea also has some great ski resorts, such as:

High1 Ski Resort in Jeongseon

Yongpyong Ski Resort in Pyeongchang

Hiking and trekking

Taiwan has some of the most spectacular outdoor activities in the world, varying from stunning coastal walks to high mountain peaks. Taiwan offers a variety of hiking and cycling opportunities that cater to different levels of experience and interest.

NOTEWORTHY HIKES IN TAIWAN:

Taiwan is a hiker’s dream with a staggering 286 mountain peaks above 3000 meters. Some of the best hikes include:

Qixing (Seven Star) Mountain : Located in Taipei City, this hike is known for its wildflowers, butterflies, and excellent views of Taipei.

Wuliaojian Ridge : This adventurous trail is located west of Taipei in Sanxia District.

Holy Ridge in Shei-pa National Park : This world-class route connects Xueshan (Snow Mountain), Taiwan’s second-highest peak, with Dabajianshan, offering breathtaking views from a ridgeline above 3,000 meters.

Mianyue Line Trail in Alishan Forest Recreation Area : This unusual route provides a unique experience along a defunct old logging railway.

Zhuilu Old Trail in Taroko National Park : This trail is renowned for its spectacular views.

NOTEWORTHY CYCLING IN TAIWAN:

Taiwan is often referred to as the “Bicycle Kingdom” due to its extensive bike route network and vast bike manufacturing heritage. Some noteworthy cycling opportunities include:

Taiwan Cycle Route No.1 : This is a 968 km bicycle route around the island of Taiwan.

Epic Ride Taiwan : They offer quality, creative, and excellently planned cycling tours in Taiwan.

The best time for these outdoor activities is Spring (March to May) and Autumn (September to November) when the weather is mild and it's not too wet. But always be prepared for some rain! 

It's worth noting that the typhoon season in Taiwan usually begins in April and does not end until November. However, typhoons happen most frequently from July to September with the most severe typhoons usually occurring in August and September. Please keep this in mind when planning your outdoor activities in Taiwan.

Best Beaches

Taiwan may not have the best-known beaches in Asia, but there is no shortage of beautiful beaches and warm seawater. Taiwan offers a variety of beautiful beaches, with options ranging from golden sand to unique black volcanic ash shores. Here are a few noteworthy beaches in Taiwan:

Fulong Beach : Located just a short train ride away from Taipei in New Taipei City, this long gorgeous golden-sand strip of beach is a hotspot for many of those in the younger generation. There are many activities that can be done at this beach, such as hopping on a banana boat, jet skiing, and kayaking. It is easily accessible from Taipei, making it a perfect spot for a quick getaway.

Wai’ao Beach : Sitting on the northeastern side of the island in Yilan, Wai’ao Beach is an ideal place for vacationers to visit and experience some of the excellent things that Taiwan is known for. The beach itself is unique because the sand is made from black volcanic ash.

Taimali Beach : If you’re simply talking about beauty, Taimali in Taitung County is one of the best beaches in Taiwan.

Qingshui Cliffs : Located in Hualien County, Qingshui Cliffs offers stunning views and a unique beach experience.

The best time to visit these beaches is anytime from May through October. During the summer the weather is warm and suitable for beach activities and water sports. Watch out for occasional typhoons from June to September.

However, it's advisable to avoid weekends if you're looking for a more tranquil experience. Another thing to note is that swimming is not allowed at all beaches due to strong currents.

Taiwan is increasingly recognized as a top surf destination in Asia, offering a variety of spots suitable for different skill levels. The island's East Coast is particularly renowned for its beautiful, wild beaches and consistent waves, making it a paradise for surf enthusiasts. The island provides a variety of surf spots that cater to different skill levels. Here are some of the top surfing spots in Taiwan:

Wushi Harbor, Yilan : This is one of the busiest surf spots in Taiwan due to its convenience to Taipei.

Jialeshui, Kenting : This is one of the most famous longboarding waves for surfing in Taiwan.

Fulong, New Taipei City : Fulong offers a great white sand beach that’s friendly for all.

Jinzun, Taidong : Jinzun harbor has a main spot where many surf competitions are held.

Daxi, Yilan : Daxi is another popular spot in Yilan.

Taiwan has all-year-round surf, with two distinct surf seasons: Winter (October to March) along the east coast and Summer (April to September) along the south coast.

The high season for surfing in Taiwan is from November to March, which starts around the same time as the Taiwan Open of Surfing. During the winter, the Northeastern Monsoon brings in bigger waves and longer wave periods. The east coast can be especially good for more experienced surfers during this time.

Summer is generally calmer, though typhoon swells (normally a couple of days before or after a storm) can produce great conditions. Summer is an ideal time for less experienced surfers. Conditions can be very flat at times, but most surf shops will be able to give you a good idea of when you can still get a good session in.

Remember, the best time of day to surf in Taiwan is generally just after dawn and right before sunset. With its friendly locals, delicious cuisine, and stunning landscapes, Taiwan provides not just great surfing opportunities but also a rich cultural experience. 

Taiwan is a hidden gem for kitesurfing enthusiasts, beckoning with its mesmerizing kitesurfing spots. Taiwan offers a variety of kitesurfing experiences, with spots around Taipei being particularly notable for their good winds and accessibility to different shores. Here are some of the top kitesurfing locations in Taiwan:

Tainan : Located on the southwestern coast of Taiwan, Tainan offers excellent opportunities for kitesurfing with its long stretches of coastline and favorable wind conditions.

Kenting : Kenting stands out as a premier kitesurfing destination in Taiwan, attracting riders with its consistent winds and crystal-clear waters.

Penghu : Penghu,  an archipelago in the South China Sea, is another gem in Taiwan’s kitesurfing crown, renowned for its picturesque scenery and fantastic wind conditions.

Wushih Harbor : Wushih Harbor emerges as a favored spot among kitesurfers seeking a thrilling and challenging riding experience.

Red Beach : near the Danshui River mouth is a popular location.

GuanYin Beach : in Taoyuan is popular among enthusiasts.

The main wind season is during the northeast monsoon season from October to March. However, windy days of 20+ knots are not uncommon during the off-season summer months with the peak kitesurfing season typically running from May to September. 

Please note that there is a brief rainy season in late May/June and there are occasional typhoons during July-September which make kitesurfing impossible. So make sure to check out the local conditions and be aware of any typhoon warnings!

For more details on kite surfing in Taiwan expand this section!

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TAIWAN TRAVEL COSTS

Travel Cost Section

VALUE RANK:

The cost of traveling to Taiwan can vary widely depending on factors such as your travel style, duration of stay, choice of accommodation, dining preferences, and planned activities. Here's a breakdown of some typical expenses to consider when budgeting for a trip to Taiwan:

Flights : The cost of airfare to Taiwan depends on factors such as your departure location, the time of booking, and whether you choose economy, premium economy, or business class. Prices can range from a few hundred dollars to over a thousand dollars for a round-trip ticket. For the finding the cheapest flights always check SkyScanner .

Accommodation : Accommodation costs vary based on the type of lodging you choose. Hostels and budget guesthouses typically range from $15 to $30 per night, mid-range hotels from $50 to $100 per night, and luxury hotels can cost $100 or more per night.

Transportation : Within Taiwan, transportation costs can include Taipei Metro fares (ranging from $0.50 to $1.50 per ride), intercity train tickets (approximately $20 to $50 depending on distance and class), intercity bus fares (around $5 to $20 depending on distance), and taxi fares (starting at around $2.20 with additional charges based on distance).

Food : Taiwan is known for its diverse and delicious cuisine, with options to fit any budget. Street food and local eateries offer affordable meals ranging from $2 to $5, while casual restaurants typically cost $5 to $15 per meal. Mid-range restaurants may range from $15 to $30 per meal, and fine dining establishments can cost $30 and above per meal.

Attractions and Activities : Entrance fees to attractions such as museums, temples, and national parks generally range from $1 to $10 per person. Guided tours or activities, such as hiking tours or city tours, can range from $20 to $100 depending on duration and complexity.

Miscellaneous : Additional expenses may include purchasing a SIM card for mobile data (ranging from $5 to $20 depending on data allowance), souvenirs and shopping, travel insurance, and any unforeseen expenses.

Overall, the cost of traveling to Taiwan can vary widely depending on your preferences and travel plans. A budget traveler might aim to spend around $50 to $100 per day, while mid-range travelers might budget $100 to $200 per day or more. It's essential to research and plan your trip carefully to ensure that you budget appropriately for your desired level of comfort and experience.

If you want to get an idea of how much we spend travelling, see our Taiwan Budget Report (30 nights) 2019 .

FIND DISCOUNT FLIGHTS TO TAIWAN

Travel tips for taiwan.

Travelling to Taiwan can be an exciting and enriching experience with its vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and stunning natural landscapes. Here are some travel tips to help you make the most of your trip:

Try the Street Food : Taiwan is famous for its street food culture. Don't hesitate to try local specialties like beef noodle soup, stinky tofu, and bubble tea from street vendors and night markets. These culinary experiences are not to be missed.

Use Public Transportation : Taiwan has an excellent public transportation system, especially in Taipei. Utilize the Taipei Metro, buses, and trains to get around efficiently and affordably. Consider getting an EasyCard for convenience and discounts on transportation fares.

Explore Beyond Taipei : While Taipei offers plenty to see and do, don't miss the opportunity to explore other parts of Taiwan. Visit the stunning Taroko Gorge in Hualien, the historic city of Tainan, or the scenic Sun Moon Lake in Nantou.

Respect Local Customs : Taiwanese people are polite and friendly, and it's essential to respect local customs and etiquette. For example, it's customary to remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain temples. Learning a few basic phrases in Mandarin, such as "hello" (nǐ hǎo) and "thank you" (xièxiè), can also be appreciated.

Stay Connected with Free Wi-Fi : Many public places in Taiwan offer free Wi-Fi, including airports, metro stations, and cafes. Download offline maps and translation apps to navigate the city and communicate with locals more easily.

Experience Traditional Festivals : If possible, plan your trip around one of Taiwan's traditional festivals, such as the Lantern Festival or the Dragon Boat Festival. These celebrations offer a unique insight into Taiwanese culture and traditions.

Stay Safe and Hydrated : Taiwan is generally a safe destination for travelers, but it's essential to take standard precautions. Stay hydrated, especially during hot and humid weather, and be cautious when crossing the street, as traffic can be hectic in urban areas.

Prepare for the Weather : Taiwan has a subtropical climate with distinct seasons. Pack accordingly, especially if you plan to visit mountainous areas where temperatures can be cooler. Typhoon season typically occurs from June to October, so be aware of weather forecasts and potential travel disruptions during this time and always carry an umbrella or raincoat.

Respect Nature : Taiwan is blessed with beautiful natural landscapes, including mountains, forests, and beaches. Practice responsible tourism by following designated trails, disposing of waste properly, and respecting wildlife.

Try Temple Etiquette : If you visit temples or religious sites, dress modestly and remove your hat before entering. Be mindful of taking photos, especially during worship or ceremonies, and avoid touching or disturbing sacred objects.

GETTING AROUND TAIWAN

Transport from one place to the next is very easy in Taiwan and is quite efficient. There are well established public transport systems across the entire country. We recommend using BookAway  or 12Go website  to view bus, boat, and train schedules ahead of time. Skyscanner.com  or Kiwi.com  are handy tools for finding great flight deals

Here are some helpful details about the various public transport options in Taiwan:

Taipei Metro (MRT) : The Taipei Metro, also known as the MRT, is the rapid transit system serving Taipei and New Taipei City. It consists of several lines covering most of the city and connecting major attractions, shopping districts, and transportation hubs. Fares are distance-based and range from NT$20 to NT$65 per ride. Discounts are available for using an EasyCard or purchasing multi-day passes.

Taiwan Railways (TRA) : Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) operates the train services throughout Taiwan, connecting major cities and towns. TRA offers different types of trains, including express, local, and high-speed rail (THSR). THSR, also known as Taiwan High-Speed Rail, is a convenient option for travelling long distances between major cities, with trains reaching speeds of up to 300 km/h.

Intercity Buses : Intercity buses provide transportation between cities and towns across Taiwan, complementing the train network. Various bus companies operate routes with different levels of comfort and amenities. Some popular operators include Ubus, Guoguang Bus, and Kamalan Bus. 

City Buses : Each city in Taiwan has its own bus system, providing coverage within the city and surrounding areas. City buses are an affordable way to get around, with fares typically ranging from NT$15 to NT$30 depending on the distance travelled. Taipei also has an extensive network of YouBike stations, allowing travellers to rent bicycles for short trips within the city. 

Taxi : Taxis are readily available in Taiwan's cities and can be hailed from the street or hired from taxi stands. Taxi fares start at around NT$70 to NT$85 for the first 1.25 to 2 kilometres, with additional charges based on distance travelled and waiting time.

Ferry Services : Ferry services operate between Taiwan's main island and outlying islands such as Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu. These ferries provide an alternative mode of transportation for travellers wishing to explore Taiwan's island destinations.

Airport Transportation : Both Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) and Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) are well-connected to the city centers by public transportation. The Airport MRT line serves Taoyuan Airport, providing fast and convenient access to downtown Taipei. Airport buses also operate between the airports and various locations in Taipei and other cities.

When using public transportation in Taiwan, it's advisable to purchase an  EasyCard (悠遊卡) for convenience. EasyCards can be used on MRT, buses, and even for payment at convenience stores and some taxis. Additionally, English signage and announcements are prevalent on public transportation, making it accessible for tourists.

Travel Tips Section

REGIONS & HIGHLIGHTS OF TAIWAN

Taiwan is a diverse island with a wide range of attractions spread across its various regions. Here are some of the main regions worth visiting in Taiwan and their highlights:

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN NORTHERN TAIWAN :

Taipei : Explore Taiwan's vibrant capital city, known for its bustling night markets, modern skyscrapers, and cultural attractions such as the National Palace Museum and Taipei 101. Don't miss Shilin Night Market, famous for street food and shopping.

Longshan Temple is a historic and beautifully ornate temple.

Elephant Mountain is a popular hiking spot with stunning city views. Be sure to check our complete Guide for What To See And Do in Taipei .

Jiufen : Visit this charming mountain town with narrow streets, old tea houses, and stunning views of the coastline. Jiufen is famous for its nostalgic atmosphere and was the inspiration for the anime film "Spirited Away."

Pingxi : Known for the Sky Lantern Festival.

Yangmingshan National Park : Enjoy hiking trails, hot springs, and volcanic landscapes in this beautiful national park located just north of Taipei.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN EASTERN TAIWAN :

Taroko Gorge : Marvel at the breathtaking scenery of Taroko Gorge, one of Taiwan's most stunning natural wonders. Explore marble cliffs, rushing rivers, and scenic hiking trails in this dramatic gorge. See our Blog Post on How to See Taroko National Park . 

Hualien : Base yourself in Hualien to explore Taroko Gorge and enjoy its laid-back atmosphere, local cuisine at the Hualien Night Market, and proximity to scenic coastal areas like Qixingtan Beach.

East Rift Valley : Discover picturesque countryside, lush rice paddies, and indigenous culture in the East Rift Valley, which stretches from Hualien to Taitung.

Sanxiantai : Natural landscape with a picturesque footbridge.

Taitung Forest Park : Urban park with lakes, trails, and birdwatching.

Luye Highland : Popular spot for paragliding and hot air balloon rides.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN CENTRAL TAIWAN :

Sun Moon Lake : Visit Taiwan's largest lake, known for its tranquil beauty, surrounded by forested mountains and dotted with temples and hiking trails. Take a boat ride on the lake and visit nearby attractions like Wenwu Temple and Ci'en Pagoda.

Taichung : Explore Taiwan's second-largest city, known for its vibrant arts scene, shopping districts, and night markets. Don't miss the colorful Rainbow Village and the scenic Gaomei Wetlands.

Fengjia Night Market : One of the largest and most popular night markets.

Xitou Nature Education Area : Forest reserve with bamboo groves and hiking trails.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN SOUTHERN TAIWAN :

Kaohsiung : Experience Taiwan's second-largest city, known for its modern skyline, lively night markets, and cultural attractions such as the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Memorial Center and Lotus Pond.

Tainan : Discover Taiwan's oldest city, renowned for its rich history, temples, and traditional Taiwanese cuisine. Visit historical sites like Anping Fort, Chihkan Tower, and the oldest Confucius Temple.

Liuhe Night Market : Popular market with a variety of street foods.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN WESTERN TAIWAN :

Chiayi : Explore the gateway to Alishan National Scenic Area, famous for its mountain railway, towering cypress trees, and stunning sunrise views. Don't miss the Alishan Forest Railway and the Sacred Tree.

Miaoli : Experience rural Taiwan in Miaoli, known for its idyllic countryside, hot springs, and Hakka culture. Visit attractions like Shengxing Railway Station and Flying Cow Ranch.

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN TAIWAN'S OUTLYING ISLANDS :

Penghu : Discover Taiwan's tropical paradise, with pristine beaches, coral reefs, and historic sites. Enjoy water sports, island hopping, and exploring traditional fishing villages.

Kinmen and Matsu : Explore Taiwan's offshore islands, known for their military history, fortifications, and unique cultural heritage. Visit landmarks like Kinmen's Shuitou Village and Matsu's Beihai Tunnel.

Sights and Highlights section

WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN TAIWAN

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Admire the Taipei 101

This beautiful building is synonymous with the city of Taipei. Having held the title of the world’s tallest building from 2004 to 2010 and with its unique form, shaped like a stalk of bamboo emerging from the city, one can clearly understand why Taipei is so proud of this building.

Insider Travel Tip:  The lines to the Taipei 101 can get busy which is why we recommend  booking your tickets online.  Collect your ticket at the self-service ticket machine for convenience.

Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall

Free to visit, the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall is situated within Liberty Square, which also houses the classical-Chinese style National Theatre and National Concert Hall. If you are inside the Memorial Hall on the hour, you can see the changing of the guards.

Visit Taroko Gorge in Taroko National Park

Taroko National Park and Gorge can easily be visited from almost anywhere in Taiwan and are indeed very impressive and should not be missed. You can access the park either by arranged tour, private guide, by public bus or by your own transportation. See our Blog Post on How to See Taroko National Park . Each option has its pros and cons, however, we recommend renting a scooter if you are comfortable doing so. If you’re short on time but want to see the best of Taroko, we recommend this day tour from Taipei .

Visit Hualien & Qixingtan Scenic Area

If you want to escape the big cities and enjoy the beauty of the nature of Taiwan, the relaxed town of Hualien and the incredibly beautiful coastline of the Qixingtan Scenic Area are must-see.

Sun Moon Lake

At the foothills of Taiwan’s Central Mountain Range, Sun Moon Lake is surrounded by forested peaks. East of the lake, the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village is a theme park with a section devoted to re-created indigenous villages. The Sun Moon Lake Ropeway cable car offers views of the mountains and water.

Dragon and Tiger Pagodas at Lotus Lake

Located in a scenic area, on the edge of Lotus Lake, these two pagodas are possibly the most popular attractions in the port city of Kaohsiung. Visitors enter the temple through the dragon’s mouth and exit through the tiger’s mouth and can enjoy a view of the lake from the top of each tower.

Taste The Local Cuisine At A Night Market

A typical night market in Taiwan may sell anything from food to clothing to fortune-telling services. The variety of food on offer can be staggering and you're sure to be surprised by the interesting and unique combinations. We have made a bunch of videos of our experiences at night markets all across Taiwan (see here) - and NEVER left hungry! If you're on the hunt for anything besides food many a bargain can be had, and wherever prices are not displayed, haggling is expected. Discover the best of Taiwan night market food with the help of a local guide

SUGGESTED ITINERARIES FOR VISITING TAIWAN

One-week itinerary: best of taiwan highlights.

Day 1: Arrival in Taipei

Arrive in Taipei and check into your accommodation.

Explore Taipei's bustling Ximending district, known for shopping, street food, and entertainment.

Visit the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper for panoramic views of the city.

Day 2: Taipei City Tour

Day 3: Day Trip to Jiufen and Keelung

Day 4: Taroko Gorge

Day 5: Sun Moon Lake

Day 6: Alishan

Day 7: Departure from Taipei

Two-Week Itinerary: Comprehensive Taiwan Experience

Follow the one-week itinerary above and extend your stay with the following additional days:

Day 8: Tainan

Travel to Tainan, Taiwan's oldest city, known for its rich history and cultural heritage.

Visit historical sites such as Anping Fort, Chihkan Tower, and the Confucius Temple.

Enjoy traditional Taiwanese cuisine at Tainan's famous night markets.

Day 9-10: Kenting National Park

Day 11-12: Kaohsiung

Day 13-14: Penghu Islands

Day 15: Departure from Taipei

These itineraries offer a comprehensive overview of Taiwan's diverse attractions, including cultural landmarks, natural wonders, and vibrant cities. Feel free to adjust the itineraries based on your interests and preferences.

WHAT TO EAT IN TAIWAN

What To Eat Paragraph

Taiwanese cuisine is, in essence, Taiwanese but is also greatly influenced by Japanese and Chinese. What makes the cuisine so special is the Taiwanese passion for food, influences from many different countries, and the fact that most cities and towns are famous for a special dish of their own. Taiwan is synonymous with night-market food culture and you will be hard-pressed to not find an amazing meal on every street corner and at attractive prices. All you have to do is find the nearest night-market and you will be in heaven no matter what your preferences. Vegetarians are also better catered for than in most other countries.

A Guide To The FOOD Of Taiwan

Taiwan SWEETS And SNACKS

Keep an eye out for the following must-try foods:

Beef Noodles - Often regarded as Taiwan’s national dish and there are many different varieties and variations. Essentially it is a noodle soup with chunks of extremely tender stewed beef and a dash of pickles.

Oyster Omelette - Made from eggs, oysters, and the leaves of a local chrysanthemum, topped with sweet red sauce. To be honest, we did not enjoy this!

Taiwan Sausage - Usually made from emulsified pork, this sausage is crispy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and quite sweet in taste. Usually served on a stick or with some garlic.

Stinky Tofu - Possibly the most famous Taiwanese delicacy, stinky tofu is fermented tofu with a strong odour often likened to rotting garbage. It's usually sold only by outdoor stalls, as the smell would overwhelm most restaurants!

Pepper Pork Buns - Crunchy, flaky outer dough shell topped with sesame seeds and containing a filling of peppery marinated pork with loads of scallions. It’s cooked in a cylindrical clay oven similar to an Indian tandoori oven and half of the joy of this dish is watching them being made.

Iron Eggs - These eggs have been stewed repeatedly and then air-dried so that they’re even more flavourful. They are usually vacuum packed and available in most convenience stores.

Scallion Pancake - This flaky pastry with chopped scallions makes for a delicious snack any time of the day. When served alone, it will often have a sprinkling of white pepper and cinnamon – a very unexpected combination that is absolutely delightful!

Pineapple Cake - This is a very traditional sweet snack which many people take a box of these home as a gift from Taiwan. One reason why it’s so popular as a gift is because the pineapple is considered an auspicious symbol in Taiwanese, meaning “incoming fortune”. The candied pineapple is contained within a buttery shortbread crust that just melts in your mouth and is surprisingly not overly sweet.

Peanut Ice Cream Roll - Vanilla ice-cream, fresh coriander, and crushed peanuts are rolled into a very thin pancake making for the most refreshing and delicious, albeit odd combination!

High Mountain Oolong Tea - Taiwan's specialty High Mountain Oolong teas are fragrant and light.

Pearl Milk Tea - Aka "bubble tea" or "boba tea", is a milky tea with chewy balls of tapioca added, drunk through an oversized straw. Invented in Taiwan in the early 1980s and a huge Asia-wide craze in the 1990s, it can still be found at nearly every coffee/tea shop.

LGBTQ IN TAIWAN

WHERE TO STAY IN TAIWAN

From $3 hostels to $100 hotels, Taiwan has a huge variety of accommodation options. Cities like Taipei, Taichung and Kaohsiung will have the best variety, but will also be more expensive. However, competition can be fierce so if your dates are flexible and you can stay for a longer period there are plenty of bargains. During April 2019 we spent 4 weeks in and around the North & Northeast of Taiwan and ended up spending an average of $30 per night.

For your first visit to Taiwan, choosing the right base is crucial to exploring the island's diverse attractions, from bustling cities to serene natural landscapes. Here's a breakdown of top areas and accommodations:

Where to stay in Taipei:

Taipei is the vibrant capital city of Taiwan, renowned for its bustling night markets, historic temples, and modern skyscrapers, offering a perfect blend of culture, cuisine, and convenience.

Budget:  Consider staying at the Meander Taipei Hostel for affordable dorm beds and a central location near Taipei's main attractions and transportation hubs.

Mid-range:  The Green World Hotel Zhonghua provides comfortable accommodations with modern amenities and easy access to Taipei's shopping and dining districts. The hostel offers dormitory-style accommodations with bunk beds as well as private rooms. Common areas include a communal kitchen, lounge area, and rooftop terrace where guests can socialize and enjoy views of the city. Meander Taipei Hostel is popular among backpackers and budget travelers due to its affordable rates and lively ambiance.

Luxury:  Opt for the luxurious ambiance of the Mandarin Oriental Taipei , a luxurious five-star hotel located in the Da'an District of Taipei, Taiwan. It is renowned for its impeccable service, luxurious accommodations, and elegant design. The hotel features spacious rooms and suites that are beautifully appointed with high-end amenities and contemporary decor.

Best Value Tip:  Visit Taipei during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for better accommodation rates and milder weather, while still enjoying vibrant festivals and cultural events.

Where to stay in Taichung:

Taichung is Taiwan's cultural and artistic hub, known for its lively art scene, scenic parks, and vibrant street food culture, offering a relaxed atmosphere and easy access to nearby attractions like Sun Moon Lake.

Budget:  Consider staying at the Loft 18 Hostel for affordable rooms and a central location near Taichung's art galleries and night markets.

Mid-range:  The Tempus Hotel Taichung-Dadun provides comfortable accommodations with contemporary design and easy access to Taichung's shopping and entertainment areas.

Luxury:  Opt for the luxurious ambiance of the Evergreen Laurel Hotel Taichung , featuring upscale rooms, a rooftop pool, and panoramic city views.

Best Value Tip:  Explore Taichung's local markets and food streets for affordable and delicious dining experiences, especially for Taiwanese snacks and delicacies.

Where to stay in Kaohsiung:

Kaohsiung is Taiwan's second-largest city, known for its bustling harbor, scenic waterfront, and cultural attractions like the Lotus Pond and Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, offering a mix of urban energy and natural beauty.

Budget:  Consider staying at the Kiwi Express Hotel - Kaohsiung Station for affordable rooms and a central location near Kaohsiung's train station and night markets.

Mid-range:  The Airline Inn - Kaohsiung Station provides comfortable accommodations with modern amenities and easy access to Kaohsiung's shopping and dining districts.

Luxury:  Opt for the luxurious ambiance of the Grand Hi-Lai Hotel , featuring upscale rooms, multiple dining options, and panoramic views of Kaohsiung Harbor.

Best Value Tip:  Take advantage of Kaohsiung's efficient public transportation system, including the MRT and buses, for affordable and convenient travel around the city.

CHOOSE ANOTHER DESTINATION

Recent blog posts, plan your trip, visa services, let ivisa take the pain out of travel planning and assist you with electronic visas, travel authorizations, visas on arrival, and even paper visas. they can also help with health declarations and embassy registrations. if you're from the us, they also provide a one-stop shop to renew your passport securely and error-free..

FLIGHTS Find a cheap flight by using  Sky scanner  or  Momondo . These are our favourite  flight search engines. They index other travel websites and airlines across the globe to easily find you the best deal.

ACCOMMODATION

Booking.com is our number one resource for researching and booking accommodation. In addition to Booking.com , we have found  Agoda.com to consistently returns the cheapest rates in Southeast Asia. 

TRANSPORT ​

DiscoverCars.com is a leader in online car rental bookings; we compare car rental deals from many companies so that you can choose which is best for your trip.  12Go   connects the world door-to-door, from transfers to flights, under the same user-friendly ticket.

INSURANCE Travel insurance can protect you against unexpecte d illness, injury, theft, and cancellations.

Heymondo (International Travel Insurance)

World Nomads   (Travel / medical insurance for long-term travellers and nomads)

SafetyWing Nomad Insurance (Travel / medical insurance for long-term travellers and nomads)

Need more help to book your trip? Check our complete resource page  for all the best companies to use when you travel. You will only find the companies we use ourselves.

Please note that some of the links above may be affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you,

we may earn a commission if you end up making a purchase.

How I Traveled Solo in Taiwan for 5 Days with 15k All-IN Budget + Itinerary

I traveled solo to Taiwan for 5 days with a budget of Php 15,000 ($293 USD) ALL-IN . Y es, you read that right! ALL-IN, including airfare, food, and accommodation . So if you are a first-time international traveler, Taiwan is actually perfect for you. The country has a top-notch metro system that is easy and convenient even for non-Chinese speaking travelers.

Though it is small, Taiwan is home to beautiful nature parks, hiking trails, incredibly cheap yet amazing food, bustling night markets, and architectural landmarks that will wow you. Taiwan is Currently Visa-Free for Filipinos They recently just extended it until July 2020. Yet, another reason why you should add this to your travel bucket list!

Table of Contents

When to Visit Taiwan

You’ll want to avoid the Typhoon season during June-October. Summer season June-August can be crazy hot and humid just like Manila! January-February is mostly peak season where accommodations and fares are more expensive due to the Chinese New Year. So you must also try to avoid that.

According to my research, the best time to travel in Taiwan is during Fall or Spring Season (November-April). December is also okay due to the cooler temperature.

How to Get to Taiwan

Fortunately, I was lucky to find a Php 4,000 round-trip ticket (Manila to Taipei & Taipei to Manila) from Cebu Pacific . I booked it roughly a month before my trip. Make sure to include travel insurance from Travelsure which only costs around P298 pesos!

During my travels, I find it cheaper when you book at least a month before your scheduled trip. And the best prices are around 3 months before the trip!

I would suggest preparing at least Php 4,000 – Php 6,000 pesos for your airfare to Taiwan.

Book Flight Tickets From Manila to Taipei Here

Where to Stay in Taiwan

I find it easier to go to places when you are staying in any nearby MRT stations. You’ll be able to go anywhere to the airport and all the tourist spots around Taiwan. Choose a location near Taipei Main Station or Ximen Station .

I booked a 1 bedroom with shared bathroom through AirBnB and it cost me Php 3600 for a 5-day stay in Datong District which is 8-minutes away from Taipei Main Station. I find AirBnB accommodations a lot cheaper (Get a Php 2000 discount from AirBnb here !). However, booking through Agoda or Booking.com is also a good option to find affordable accommodation.

Affordable hotels in Taipei costs around Php 1,000-Php 3,000 per night. Hostels can be as cheap as Php 500 – Php 1,500 per night . If you are going for an affordable option prepare at least Php 3,000 – Php 6,000 for your accommodation.

Taiwan Currency and Exchange

Taiwan’s currency is called New Taipei Dollar (NTD) . The exchange rate of 1 NTD to PHP is  Php 1.65 .

Exchange your money through the airport or banks to get better rates. During weekends, the banks are closed and the exchange rate outside the airport is more expensive. You may also withdraw through ATMs scattered across Taiwan but you may get charged for each transaction. If you are bringing a credit card, make sure to also inform your bank that you will be traveling abroad to avoid any issue.

Taiwan Must-Haves for Traveling

I booked through KLOOK  so I can have an easy and hassle-free experience during my travels.

Pocket Wifi or 4G Sim

One of the most important things that you’ll need in Taiwan is an internet connection. It will help you navigate through places, upload pictures in social media and help you stay connected with your friends and family.

Alternatively, you can get a sim card with a 3-day, 5-day or 7-day plan. The internet connection is surprisingly fast and efficient so you won’t have to worry about anything.

Taipei EasyCard

I highly recommend getting the EasyCard here in Taiwan. This small card enables you to hop-on and off on buses, MRT stations, taxi cabs, you-bikes, convenience stores and paying for entrance fees in tourist spots in Taiwan. Just top it off with money in any convenience store and you are ready to go.

I would suggest putting at least 600 NTD in your easycard. It should be enough getting to places for 5 days in Taiwan.

How to Get Around Taiwan

Taiwan’s mrt.

Taiwan’s MRT system is one of the best, cleanest, fastest, and most efficient train system that I’ve ever seen. It is fairly easy to navigate through places as the signs have English translations. You can get almost anywhere in Taiwan using their MRT. Make sure to get your Easycard for a hassle-free ride so you no longer have to get tickets every time and also I notice whenever I use the EasyCard, I get around 10% discounts.

If you are coming from Taoyuan International Airport before 11 pm, you can walk through the Airport MRT, ride and arrive at any station like Taipei Main Station or Ximen Station. It costs around 160 NTD or Php 263 from the Airport MRT to Taipei Main Station and vice versa. No need for a private car transfer from the airport or taxi cabs to your hotel!

Their MRT also has lockers to store your belongings. It only costs around 50 NTD for 3 hours. I found it very useful after checking out of my Airbnb room and still have plenty of time before my flight. I just stored my luggage, kept the passcode and walk off.

Yellow Taxi Cab

Surprisingly, taxi cabs are not that expensive. They are everywhere so it will be easy to find them and get a ride. They will usually stop by you if the drivers feel that you need a ride. The taxi cabs are metered, the fare starts around 70 NTD or P115.

Tip: Make sure to have the Chinese translations of the places you want to go to since not everyone can speak English.

Hop-on and Hop-Off Bus

Double-decker hop-on and hop-off buses frequently roam the road. It is really easy to spot one on stations and ride. You just need the passes. a 4-hour pass is 470 NTD or Php 445 and a 24-hour pass is 540 NTD or Php 889 .

You-bikes are scattered around the city. It’s pretty easy to find them anywhere. You will need a Taiwanese sim card and an EasyCard in order to use a you-bike. Here is a detailed guide on how to use You Bikes .

It costs around 5 NTD or Php 8.23 for a 30-minute ride and an 8-hour rental is around 40 NTD or Php 65.86 . It is a pretty cheap, fun and exciting way to explore the city.

Taiwan Must-See Places

Day 1 and 2 – tour around the city.

I did a DIY tour around the city and so can you. You can easily go to these places through MRT stations. Most of the stations are named after the tourist spots like the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial, Taipei 101 and Shilin. But if you don’t feel confident, you can book a FREE WALKING TOUR from Klook. It is completely free but you’ll just have to give a tip the tour guide.

• Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial
• National Palace Museum ( Entrance Fee: 350 NTD or Php 576 )

• Taipei 101 ( Entrance Fee: 600 NTD or Php 98 7)
• Taipei Zoo ( Entrance Fee: 60 NTD or Php 98 )
• Maokong Gondola ( Fare: 1 stop 70 NTD or Php 115 , 2 Stops 100 NTD or Php 164 , 3 Stops 120 NTD or Php 197 )
• Elephant Mountain

• Ximending Shopping District
• Shilin Night Market
• Ningxia Night Market

Day 2 and 3 – Northern Coast Tour

Since the Northern Coast is not in the city, I decided to join a day tour from KKDAY . It covers Yehliu Geopark, Shifen Old Street, Shifen Waterfall, and Jiufen Old Street. The tour only cost Php 845 or 520 NTD or 16.55 USD . However, it does not cover all the entrance fees and food. Only the roundtrip transfers and tour guide.

• Yehliu Geopark ( Entrance Fee: 80 NTD or Php 130 )
• Shifen Old Street

In Shifen, you can write on your own sky lantern. A single-colored lantern costs 150 NTD or Php 246 and a multi-colored one is  200 NTD or Php 329.

• Shifen Waterfall ( Entrance Fee: 80 NTD or Php 131 )

• Jiufen Old Street

Our tour guide Amy was very active, funny, attentive and very helpful. She will tell you about the history and culture of each place, she will also guide you on the best places to eat, must-try foods and where you can buy the cheapest souvenirs.

You can also book a Northern Coast Tour from Klook.

Day 4 and 5 – The Colorful Taichung

From Taipei Main Station, you can ride by TRA and it cost about 241 NTD for standard and 375 NTD for Express. The journey will take about 2.5 hours to 3.5 hours. You can also take the High-Speed Rail which is more expensive. 670-750 NTD for Standard to 965-1060 NTD for Business Class.

• Wuling Farm ( Entrance Fee: 130 NTD or Php 214 )
• Zhongshe Flower Garden ( Entrance Fee: 120 NTD or Php 197 )
• Rainbow Village

Summary and Breakdown of Expenses

Php 4,000 – P6,000

Transportations

600 NTD or Php 987

Accommodation

Php 3,000 – Php 6,000

Food in Taiwan is extremely affordable. Here is a guide of must-try foods in Taiwan . A meal for one person can cost about 100 NTD / Php 164 – 200 NTD / Php 329. Depending on how thrifty or how hungry you are, you might spend about 300 NTD / P439 to 600 NTD / Php 969 per day or even less!

Prepare at least Php 2,000-Php 2,500 for food in 5 days.

Activities and Entrance Fees

Here is a detailed guide on what kind of souvenirs and snacks you can bring back from Taiwan. An estimated budget of P1,000-2,500 should be enough to bring to your family and friends.

I actually spent around Php 14,800 during my 5-day stay in Taiwan. If you follow my guide and expenses breakdown, this should cost you about Php 12,500 to Php 18,500. It all depends on how you are going to manage your finances. But a Php 15,000 all-in budget to Taiwan? Definitely doable!

Taiwan Adventures | Solo Travel | The Geekly Gal Vlog

4 responses to “How I Traveled Solo in Taiwan for 5 Days with 15k All-IN Budget + Itinerary”

Wow! That looked like one great trip! Not to mention, affordable. I’m sure to save up for one of my next travels. Will consider Taiwan. Thanks for sharing.

Thanks for sharing your experience. One day, with my family, we will achieve our travel goals. Do you have an estimate also if family of 5 to 6 ang magvi-visit?

Fast estimation for 5-6 family in Taipei around 30-40k budget for accomodations, food and tours. I am going to post a Bangkok Travel soon and I’ll be traveling with my family! I’ll list down the cost and everything.

Hoping to go to Taiwan soon with my family, but I am worried that we can’t push through with the budget that we have. Thanks for your post, I got ideas that we can use for our trip!

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Ultimate Taiwan Itinerary For 2 Weeks – Cities, Nature & Food

Table of Contents

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Looking for a Taiwan itinerary that includes cities, street art, hiking, food markets and culture? Whether you’re browsing for a potential future trip or already have it booked, I’m extremely jealous. My 2 weeks in Taiwan were spectacular: full of hiking, eating and culture. In fact, Taiwan was favourite new destination of 2019 and it had South Korea, Romania, Bulgaria and the Czech Republic to compete with. Not only is Taiwan colourful, friendly and extremely beautiful, but it’s also very affordable. Oh, and Taiwanese food is to die for! In this guide, I’m going to share my Taiwan itinerary including the best destinations around the island. I’ll tell you what to see, do and eat in each place and share my transport tips for getting around, as well as general Taiwan tips and inspo.

Check out my other 2 week Asia itineraries to Malaysia , Vietnam , Bali and South Korea .

Planning your Taiwan itinerary

As you can see from the map, the majority of the popular locations are on the coast. For that reason, I’d recommend travelling around Taiwan in a circular direction . I flew into and out of Taipei, visiting the attractions on the east coast first, reaching Kaohsiung (Taiwan’s second-biggest city) in the south midway through my trip, and finally seeing the west coast attractions en route back to Taipei. Another option is starting in Taipei and leaving from Kaohsiung, or vice versa.

TAIWAN ESSENTIALS Accommodation  – Booking.com / Hostelworld Getting around – car hire / bus / train ( 12Go ) Activities: GetYourGuide / Viator Guidebook: Lonely Planet Taiwan Staying connected: Taiwan e-SIM card / Asia e-SIM (inc Taiwan)

How long to spend in Taiwan?

With two major cities, several historic smaller cities, beaches and hiking opportunities aplenty, I’d suggest spending 2 weeks in Taiwan to see a bit of everything. If you have less time, it’s probably better to base in Taiwan then Kaohsiung and take day trips to the other destinations mentioned.

2 week Taiwan itinerary overview

• Days 1-5 – Taipei 
• Days 6-7 – Hualien and Taroko National Park
• Days 8-9 – Kaohsiung
• Dys 10-11 – Kenting National Park OR Tainan
• Days 12-14 – Taichung.

How to get around Taiwan

When spending 2 weeks in Taiwan, you’ll probably wonder how to get around. Taiwan is a relatively small island and, thanks to the speedy rail network , it’s easy to move about. Unlike other Asian countries where gruelling night buses are the norm, you’ll never spend more than a few hours in transit. Train is the best way to get around during your Taiwan itinerary. They’re modern, clean and efficient. You can book regular trains on the Taiwan Railways website but personally I could never get it to accept my payment card. While you can usually turn up at the train station on the day and get a seat, you’ll want to be careful during peak periods and weekends. To avoid disappointment, book your tickets the day before at the train station. High-Speed Trains in Taiwan are more expensive but faster. Unlike regular trains, these can easily be booked online using 12Go , my favourite website for Asia travel.

As of 2024, Klook also have 30% discount voucher on fast trains!

How to get around cities

Metro: the MRT is the best way to get around Taipei. There are 6 lines servicing 83 stops. Journeys cost between 20 and 65 NT$, payable by cash or card at ticket machines. You’ll receive a blue token to access the barriers. Alternatively, you can get multi-day Taiwan metro passes or an EasyCard to reduce the hassle of buying a ticket each time. 

Bus: this is another convenient way to explore Taiwanese cities especially outside of Taipei where there’s no Metro system. 

Taxi: these are readily available in Taiwanese cities and not overly expensive, although certainly more than public transport. You can go to an ibon machine in any 7-11 store to order one. 

Tip – get an EasyCard before you begin your Taiwan itinerary. You’ll get a discount on MRT, bus and ferry journeys plus you can pre-load credit to save time on buying individual tickets. Buy yours now to pick up at the airport.

Stay connected with a Taiwan SIM card

Especially as a solo traveller in Taiwan , you may want to stay connected. I recommend an Airalo e-SIM that you can download to connect as soon as you land. Browse packages from 7-30 days from $4.50 or, if you’re visiting other countries on your trip, check out Airalo’s Asialink card covering 18 countries including Taiwan.

Days 1-5: Taipei

Does five days in one city sound excessive? Trust me, you’re going to need it if you want to see Taipei to its fullest and explore the surrounding area. There are some awesome day trips so it’s worth basing there for a good few nights. If you’re tight on time, I’d recommend tours with GetYourGuide or Viator as you can visit several places during one day. The same places will take multiple days to explore via public transport.

Where to stay in Taipei

• Hostel: For a top-rated hostel in Taipei centre, it doesn’t get much better than Flip Flop Hostel Garden. This spacious hostel is filled with natural light and includes a shared lounge, sun terrace, tour desk and kitchenette. Check availability from $21 .
• Budget hotel: for a clean and conveniently located budget hotel in the heart of Taipei, stay at Iff In. Rooms come with daily housekeeping, coffee makers, a desk and a TV.  Check availability from US$45 .
• Mid-range: Just 5 minutes from Taipei Main Station and the Artist Village, K Hotel Tianjin features air-conditioned rooms, a 24-hour front desk, delicious breakfast, and facilities for disabled guests. Check availability from US$72 .
• Splash-out: With a fabulous outdoor pool, lounge area, fitness centre, terrace, bar, and restaurant, the views alone make a stay at Hilton Taipei Sinban worth it. Each modern room has a city view and includes an abundant buffet breakfast. Check availability from US$222 .

Read next: 3 and 5 day Taipei itinerary for first-timers

Taipei is such a colourful and diverse city. I didn’t have huge expectations simply because it’s not as well known as other Asian capitals like Seoul and Bangkok . However, I ended up liking it as much if not more. Exploring the gaming arcades and quirky cafes of Ximending couldn’t be more different to hiking in Yangmingshan National Park and visiting old-fashioned Jiufen Village. In Taiwan , the modern and traditional meet perfectly. Foodies will also be impressed by the number of night markets, authentic Taiwanese restaurants and modern, hipster cafes. I could easily imagine living in Taipei and not running out of things to do.

Getting to Taipei

Fly into Taoyuan International Airport . I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights.

From the airport to the city, catch the Taoyuan Airport MRT (6am-11pm) to Taipei Main Station on the purple Jichang Line (40 minutes) for NT$160. Alternatively, take the 1968 or 1962 bus for NT$120 (up to 1 hour 20 minutes) or the 1819 night bus.

This is how I would recommend spending the first 5 days of your Taiwan itinerary…

Day 1 – explore Taipei

• Take a free walking tour with Tour Me Away to learn about Taiwan’s rich history. Before this informative tour, I had no idea that Taiwan had been ruled by China, Japan and briefly Holland.
• Wander quirky Ximending neighbourhood often called the Harajuku of Taiwan , alive with street performers, boutiques, street food and neon billboards. It feels quirky and high-tech all at once.
• Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and Longshan Temple , two of Taipei’s most famous temples. Longshan Temple is a traditional folk temple where you’ll see locals at worship.
• Eat at Huaxi Night Market for dinner, also known as Snake Alley after the famous dish served there. If you don’t fancy trying reptile, there are plenty of other tasty Taiwanese street foods to sample instead!
• Head up Taipei 101 for cityscape views. Entrance is NT$ 600 ($20) so a little steep. To reduce queuing, get a ticket in advance .
• If you’d rather save your money, head for a free skyline view by hiking Elephant Mountain for sunset . This isn’t a hard hike however it’s very busy and crowded at this time of day.

Day 2 – Jiufen Village

Visit Jiufen Village , an iconic village dating back to the gold mining days of Japanese rule. Not only is the quaint village fun to explore with a fantastic food market, but it’s surrounded by mountains and beautiful countryside not far from the coast. If you have time, explore the surroundings including Jinguashi known for its geopark and shrine , or hike up Teapot Mountain if you’re feeling energetic. Factor in lunch at Jiufen Market; I can personally vouch for the bubble tea, peanut ice cream rolls and taro ball dessert. It’s easy to take a day trip to Jiufen by bus from Taipei from NT$90 each way, book a private transfer for US$30 or opt for a guided tour visiting Jiufen and the northeast coast highlights inc Jinguashi (great for meeting other travellers and learning from your local guide).

Alternative option – take a guided tour visiting Jiufen, Pingxi and Yehliu Geopark (below, days 3 and 5) for just US$35. Although you’ll have limited time in each place, you’ll free up two days to do extra things such as visit Tainan city later in this Taiwan itinerary. Another variation is to visit both Jiufen and the Pinxi Line (inc Houtong & Shifen) during one day by public transport rather than spreading them across two days.

Read next: my Taipei to Jiufen and Shifen day trip

Day 3 – Pingxi Line

An adventure along the Pingxi Line is recommended while spending 2 weeks in Taiwan. The penultimate stop is Shifen , a village set along a railway line where people release colourful lanterns and make wishes. Take a walk or e-bike ride to Shifen Waterfall . On the way to Shifen, you can stop at Houtong Cat Village which is exactly what it says on the tin: a village where cats rule the roost! Afterwards, you can continue further to Pingxi Village . Make it back to Taipei in time for sunset and hike Elephant Mountain or check out another food market.

Related activity: Pingxi sky lantern & Shifen Waterfall tour from Taipei

Day 4 – Yangmingshan & Beitou

Get lost in nature at Yangmingshan National Park north of Taipei by hiring a car or taking a day tour . Highlights of the park include exploring Qingtiangang grasslands, Lenshuikeng Hot Spring and climbing Mt Datun. To relax on the way home, swing by Beitou Hot Springs on the outskirts of Taipei. Relax in the hot pools, learn about the region’s history at the neighbouring museum and marvel at the Thermal Valley. When back in Taipei, stop for dinner at Shilin Night Market . This is a modern and vibey night market where you can try everything from noodles to bubble tea and the national dish of stinky tofu (I’m not a fan).

Day 5 – Yehliu Geopark

Take a half-day trip to Yehliu Geopark , an amazing area of natural geology where the rock formations look like something from a different planet.

There are lots of fun rock sculptures including one named The Queen’s Head due to its resemblance to a women’s side profile wearing a crown. It’s easy to catch a bus to Yehliu or take a day tour . In the afternoon or evening, you could catch a 2-hour train to Hualien. Since the journeys are so short in Taiwan, it makes sense to save yourself a day and travel after sightseeing.

Food experiences in Taipei

The food in Taipei is fantastic and there are so many affordable, world-class food markets like Raohe , Shilin , Linjiang and Jingmei . If you’re feeling overwhelmed, there are countless food experiences run by local guides. Here are a few of the best:

• Private food tasting with 10 tastings ($70)
• Night food tour with famous Din Tai Fung xiao long bao dumplings ($50)
• Cooking class: xiao long bao, beef noodle soup & bubble tea ($65)

Read next: the best Taiwanese foods to try

Day 6-7: Hualian & Taroko National Park

To experience Taiwan’s nature, you need to add Taroko National Park to your Taiwan itinerary. Before my trip, I had no idea it was so beautiful and untouched. Now when I think of the most naturally beautiful places in Asia, one of the first places that comes to my mind is Taiwan. There’s nowhere to stay in Taroko National Park so I would suggest spending two nights in Hualien city with a day to go hiking in the middle.

Where to stay in Hualien

• Hostel: For a convenient base right beside the train station and the bus stop for Taroko, you can’t do better than the On My Way Hostel. The staff are so kind and friendly (even walking me to the train station with a hostel umbrella when it was raining) and host evening movie nights in the common area. Check availability from US$15 .
• Budget hotel: Most air-conditioned rooms at Fly House have a sea view and balcony. This cosy homestay is just moments away from the beach and Dongdamen Night Market. Check availability from US$36 .
• Mid-range:  Each spotless room at Near B&B has a city or mountain view. The homestay is spacious and conveniently located, with a shared lounge and kitchen. Check availability from US$60 .
• Splash-out: Hualien isn’t known for its luxury hotels, but you’ll find space to unwind in a deluxe room with a garden, river and mountain view at Happiness is Coming. The property has a barbecue, sun terrace, and bike rental available. Check availability from US$163 .

In a rush? Take a guided day trip to Taroko from Taipei rather than staying overnight

Getting to Hualien

Take a Taiwan Railways train in 2-3 hours from Taipei Main Station. There’s no fast train yet but watch this space. Tickets cost between NT$250 and 500. For a cheaper, slower way to travel (3.5 hours), you can also take a bus from Nangang Bus Station.

Day 6 – Taroko Gorge

Head off hiking in Taroko National Park. It’s easy to catch a shuttle bus from Hualien into the park and back. Alternatively, you could drive or take an organised day tour with a guide . Add an extra day if you’re a big hiking fan. I spent one day hiking in the park which was enough for me but I spoke to a guy who’d spent more than a week travelling to Taroko each day for hiking!

Read next? my guide to visiting Taroko National Park

For the evening you can head to Dongdamen Market which is a lively night market in Hualien. It’s enormous with several alleyways of stalls serving everything from noodles to sushi to stinky tofu. The highlight was a Taiwanese delicacy called coffin toast. This is a deep-fried sandwich stuffed with meaty curry. It was delicious and, better yet, the prices were super low, probably due to the lack of foreign tourists.

Day 7 – travel day

Your longest travel journey during this 2 week itinerary in Taiwan will be from Hualien down south. It takes 6 hours by train to Kaohsiung or 8 hours to Kenting on the bottom tip of the island. Pack a good book and spend the day soaking up Taiwan’s impressive scenery.

Days 8-9: Kaohsiung

For such an awesome city, Kaohsiung is relatively unknown. That’s generally the case with much of Taiwan but I can’t imagine it staying that way for long. Kaohsiung was one of my favourite places during my 2 weeks in Taiwan. The second-largest city in Taiwan will impress art and culture lovers with its vibrant pagodas, quirky outdoor galleries and colourful street art.

Where to stay in Kaohsiung

• Hostel: I enjoyed my stay at Dreamwell Hostel . Not only are there comfy double rooms if you don’t fancy a dorm, there are also language exchange evenings that help you get to know the locals. Check availability from US$12 .
• Budget hotel: The Cloud Hotel is an excellent option in the city centre for simple but elegant accommodation with a buffet breakfast. Air-conditioned rooms include a TV and minibar. Check availability from US$36 . 
• Mid-range: For a centrally located 4* hotel which doesn’t break the bank, Harbour 10 Hotel offers a 24-hour front desk, fitness centre, modern rooms, and restaurant with a delicious breakfast. Check availability from US$68 .
• Splash-out: Book a stylish room with a view at Silks Club. This 5* hotel features an infinity pool, gourmet restaurant, SPA and wellness centre, and a gym with a dedicated personal trainer. Rooms include a capsule coffee machine, motorised electric curtains and luxurious bedding. Check availability from US$235 .

Read next: Things to do in Kaohsiung

Getting to Kaohsiung 

Arrive into Kaohsiung Main Station via Taiwan Railways or Zuoying Station by High-Speed Railway train. If you’re travelling on a budget, there are also buses which are slower and cheaper than the train. As of 2023, Klook are offering 30% off HS trains from Kaohsiung; grab your voucher here .

Day 8 – Kaohsiung

Spend a day exploring the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas which, unsurprisingly, are a set of two twin pagodas, one shaped like a dragon and one like a tiger. For good luck, you must enter via the dragon’s mouth and exit through the tiger’s. You can also climb to the top of the pagoda and look out over the peaceful lily pad lake.

If you have time during your Taiwan itinerary, another option in Kaohsiung is visiting Fo Guang Shan Temple and Buddha Museum . This Buddhist cultural centre and museum is 30km from Kaohsiung and takes 45 minutes to reach by bus. The 36-metre Buddha statue at the centre is one of the largest in Taiwan. Don’t miss Ruifeng Night Market one evening while visiting Kaohsiung. This atmospheric street market is visited by young Taiwanese people as well as whole families. Here I tried scallion pancakes, seafood takoyaki balls and waffles.

Day 9 – Cijin Island

Spend the morning visiting Cijin Island which is connected to Kaohsiung by boat and bridge. I caught the bus there as it was cheaper and quicker, then caught the ferry home. Cijin Island is best known for the Rainbow Church , a colourful art installation that’s become popular on Instagram. Nearby are a few other installations like the giant shell beside the Cijin Shell Museum.

Pier 2 Art Center : The benefit of catching the ferry back to the mainland is that you’ll arrive near Pier 2 Art Center, one of the most colourful places in Kaohsiung. Unlike most galleries, the art isn’t on the walls but all through the streets. Grab a map at the tourist office then spend a couple of hours wandering the neighbourhood where you’ll see giant modern art sculptures as well as urban murals and hidden details. Linya Street Art Village : Stop here before the end of the day. Again, this isn’t a specific location but a whole neighbourhood full of art. Even if you’re not a street art fan, it’s very impressive. Catch the orange metro line to Weiwuying Station  and you’ll find the art as soon as you exit.

Alternative option – combine your preferred Kaohsiung attractions into 1 day and visit Tainan , the ancient capital, on day 9.

Days 10-11: Kenting National Park

Beautiful beaches in Taiwan? This really is the island that has everything. In Kenting National Park you can expect palm trees, sunshine and sea views. If you’re in need of some beach chills during your 2 week Taiwan itinerary, this is the place. The best place to stay in Kenting National Park is Hengchun which is a pleasant town with four well-preserved city gates. However, it’s more of a place to stay while exploring the national park. As well as scenic lakes, you can relax on one of the many beautiful beaches in Kenting. After a day of exploring, have dinner at Hengchun Night Market. Of course it wouldn’t be Taiwan without a night market!

Getting to Kenting

Most travellers come from Kaohsiung on the Kenting Express bus. Board it from Kaohsiung Main Station (where regular trains arrive) or Zuoying Station (where the High-Speed Railway arrives). If coming from Hualien , get off the train after 4 hours in Fangliao rather than staying on ’til Kaohsiung. Walk a block to the bus station and catch a 1-hour bus to Kenting. Buses take 2-3 hours and leave every 30 minutes. 

Alternative day 10-11 – Tainan

Taiwan’s oldest city is full of cultural treasures dating back to its days as the Qing dynasty capital from 1683–1887. Temples and fortresses – most of which can be seen during a day – make it worth a visit.

Where to stay in Tainan

• Budget hotel: At Home In Tainan, guests love the bright and clean interior, cute indoor plants, friendly host, and convenient location just moments from Tainan Central. There is a shared lounge and kitchen onsite. Check availability from US$34 .
• Mid-range: If you’re looking for a 4* hotel, Fushin Hotel Tainan includes a restaurant, fitness centre, 24-hour front desk, and top-rated breakfast. Rooms have a city view, TV, desk, sofa and complimentary toiletries. Check availability from US$78 .
• Splash-out: Located in downtown Tainan, Shangri-La’s Far Eastern Plaza Hotel is a 5* hotel with two swimming pools, a fitness centre, a sauna, a hot tub, and four different food and bar options ranging from cosy to elegant. Choose your own pillow before winding down in a spacious room with Asian-inspired decor. Check availability from US$129 .

Things to do in Tainan include :

• Marvel at Amping Treehouse near the small, historic town of Anping. This abandoned warehouse overgrown with banyan tree roots will remind you of Angkor Wat! Nearby, soak up views from Anping Fort.
• Visit Luermen Mazu Temple – this shrine dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea holds great significance to Taiwanese people, dating back 300 years. It can be reached by train from Tainan South Station. Free entry.
• Seek out quirky shops, street art and sculptures at Blueprint Creative Park . This is a fun and colourful stop.

Note – if you spent 3 days in Taipei rather than 5, you may be able to squeeze in Kenting AND Tainan.

Getting to Tainan

Catch a 1-hour Taiwan Railways train from Kaohsiung Main Station to Tainan Railway Station or a High-Speed Trains in just 15 minutes(!) from Kaohsiung Zuoying. Book on 12go or use Klook’s 30% discount voucher .

Day 12-13: Taichung

My final stop during 2 weeks in Taiwan was Taichung, an awesome city on the west coast of Taiwan, around 3 hours from Taipei. The colourful Rainbow Village has put it on the map but there are a couple of other things to do including day trips to scenic Sun Moon Lake. If you like Instagrammable spots, Taichung is well worth adding to your Taiwan itinerary. Even if you don’t, Taichung is worth a quick visit.

Where to stay in Taichung

• Hostel: For cosy private pods and a stylish bistro area to relax in, I would recommend Getcha Hostel & Bistro . If you don’t want bistro food, it’s near to one of the city’s biggest and most atmospheric night markets, Yizhong Street Market, as well as the bus stop to the Rainbow Village. Check availability from US$12 .
• Budget hotel: Conveniently located within walking distance to the downtown train station, stays at Sparrow Hotel also include room service and a helpful 24-hour front desk. Rooms have air-con, complimentary toiletries, a TV, and a refrigerator. Check availability from US$32 .
• Mid-range: Just 0.8km from Taichung Train Station, Holiday Inn Express Taichung Park is a comfortable and contemporary hotel featuring a fitness centre and 24-hour front desk. The onsite restaurant serves local cuisines and a buffet breakfast. Modern rooms highlight the views over Taichung Park with floor-to-ceiling windows. Check availability from US$69 .
• Splash-out: For a stylish 5* hotel in the centre of Taichung, you won’t find better than Le Méridien Taichung. The hotel offers a 24-hour gym, bar, onsite ATM and tour desk. Guests love the comfortable dining space at breakfast, executive lounge, huge windows with an excellent view, and modern design. Check availability from US$222 .

Day 12 – Rainbow Village

Explore the Rainbow Village of Taichung . Rather than an intended urban art gallery like those in Kaohsiung, this wasn’t invented as a photo opportunity but by a local man trying to see his home from demolition. The heartwarming story of the Rainbow Grandpa will tell you all you need to know about Taiwanese people. He began drawing on walls of the village after demolition was planned, hoping to cheer up local children. Some local artists heard his story and helped decorate the village with colourful murals which eventually ended up saving the village. If you’re very lucky, you might visit the Rainbow Grandpa as he still lives nearby!

This should take half a day so why not head into town afterwards and sample local food and the original bubble tea cafe? Check out my guide to the best food in Taichung which includes Instagrammable ice creams at Miyahara. For the rest of the day, you can wander the shops and parks of Taichung before the day at Yizhong Street Market . Here I tried stinky tofu and, while I never will again, I loved this busy and bustling market.

Getting to Taichung

Taichung Station serves Taiwan Rail services while Taichung HSR station serves High-Speed trains. Whether you’re coming from Tainan, Kaohsiung or Taipei, it’s easy to catch a train to Taichung. Book on 12go if getting the High-Speed train.

Day 13 – Sun Moon Lake

Take a day trip to Sun Moon Lake to end your Taiwan itinerary. I had to miss this due to terrible weather but it looks gorgeous. It takes 2 hours each way to get to Sun Moon Lake from Taipei so I would recommend setting off as early as possible so you can spend a whole day there. You can board the Sun Moon Lake Shuttle Boat and explore the island at the heart of the lake. You can also swoop over it upon a cableway or admire the scenery by cycling around the 12km bike path running around the lake.

Day 14: Head back to Taipei and fly away!

Leaving was a sad day for me because I’d had the best 2 weeks in T aiwan. The greenery and natural beauty of this little island blew me away, as did the quirky, colourful cities and the friendly people. I know I’ll be back someday to eat more dumplings and take more photos of the colourful street art.

Best season to visit Taiwan 

Spring and autumn (March-April and October-November) are great times for your Taiwan itinerary with pleasant weather and little rain.

Summer (June-August) is hot and humid while rainy season from May-September sees strong showers. However, Taiwan is a year-round destination and, even though I visited in May, I managed to avoid rain for the most part or at least plan my activities around it.

Winter (December-February) may be low season but it’s never freezing so you can take advantage of the cheaper prices and lack of crowds. Just pack warm clothes.

Tips for visiting Taiwan

• It can be a tough country for vegetarians but look out for cheap & cheerful buffet restaurants where you can fill your plate with veggies. 
• Although tap water is technically ok to drink, it’s better to be safe. Bring a reusable water bottle that you can replenish with filtered water at your accommodation.
• Many younger people and those working in tourism speak English. However, there will be times when no one does… So have the Google translate app to hand or pack a Mandarin dictionary .
• Read all my Taiwan travel tips !

Is Taiwan worth visiting?

Absolutely! Taiwan is worth visiting for the nature, hiking, cool cities, colourful temples, vibrant night markets and xiao long bao (soup dumplings) to name just a few things. It’s one of my favourite places I’ve travelled and I’d certainly recommend visiting sooner rather than later.

How much to budget for 2 weeks in Taiwan?

Taiwan is certainly an affordable destination. Accommodation is more expensive than other Asian destinations like Taiwan and Vietnam but cheaper than South Korea and Japan. Luckily, transport and food is VERY affordable; on a parr with Southeast Asia. You can get a fantastic meal for a couple of dollars especially if you eat at night markets!

Read next: complete guide to Taiwan budget travel

During two weeks in Taiwan I spent $400 USD or $30 USD a day! This was a hostel, street food and public transport budget so increase it to stay in hotels, eat at nice restaurants and take taxis.  Average prices:

• Accommodation: hostels dorms from US$15, hostel private rooms from US$35, hotel rooms from US$40
• Food and drink: street food meals for around US$2.50, sit-down restaurant meals for US$5, bubble tea & coffees for US$2.50
• Public transport journeys : 20-80 NT$ ($1) for Metro journeys, 15 NT$ (50 cents) for bus journeys, 300-700 NT$ ($10-25) for inter-country train journeys. 

Taiwan essentials

• Copy of Lonely Planet Taiwan
• A Lonely Planet Mandarin phrasebook
• A power bank to keep your devices alive
• Sustainability: stainless steel reusable water bottle to reduce the use of plastic bottles
• Alternatively, a filtering water bottle that allows you to safely drink tap water.

Thanks for reading Taiwan itinerary

Check out some of my other Taiwan posts:

• 17 Taiwan tips for travellers
• Solo female travel in Taiwan
• Complete Taiwan budget guide & spending tips
• How to spend 5 days in Taipei
• The best Taiwanese foods to try
• Things to do in Jiufen and Shifen
• How to visit the Rainbow Village, Taichung
• How to get to Yehliu Geopark from Taipei
• Taichung food guide
• 10 fun facts about Taiwan

See you next time for more adventures,

For more content, follow me on Instagram , Facebook , Twitter and YouTube .

Ps. Liked my 2 week Taiwan itinerary? Pin this for later!

TAIWAN QUICK LINKS Getting there – it’s easy to arrive by flight. I use Skyscanner to find the best-value flights, using the ‘search by month’ tool to find the cheapest dates. To stay connected, buy an e-SIM with Airalo and use data as normal. Browse their Korea SIM packages . In my opinion, Lonely Planet offer the best guidebooks. Get the latest Lonely Planet Taiwan . Car hire – I recommend RentalCars.com for car hire in Taiwan and around the world. For Taiwan High Speed Trains , use 12Go . The search feature allows you to compare prices and durations. I use Booking.com for accommodation. They have the best range of hotels and self-catering apartments, plus you can filter by review score and price to find the best-rated budget places. For hostels, I use Hostelworld . To save money on accommodation, I use Trusted Housesitters , a website that connects homeowners going away and travellers who can sit their homes & pets. For activities, I use GetYourGuide and Viator as they both have a huge range of affordable tours. Need travel insurance ? I use True Traveller (for UK & Europe residents) since it’s affordable but covers everything you’d need including various activities, valuables and pre-existing conditions. Unlike some companies, they insure you if you’re already travelling / don’t yet have your flight home booked. Get a quote . For travel insurance for other nationalities, I recommend Hey Mundo and for long-term digital nomad travellers, I suggest Safety Wing . Check out my resources page for more travel discounts and tips!

Rose is a solo traveller from the UK who has been on the road since 2015. She wants to show other women that solo travel isn't scary and doesn't have to be expensive! Rose has lived in Mexico, Canada and all over Asia, seeking out food, bubble tea and street art wherever she goes!

3 thoughts on “ Ultimate Taiwan Itinerary For 2 Weeks – Cities, Nature & Food ”

This sounds like a fab itinerary! The day at Yangmingshan National Park and Beitou Hot Springs sounds especially awesome, but I would love all those hikes and natural areas.

I already wanted to visit to Taiwan for the food, but it sounds like there is sooo much more that I would love!

I really want to visit Taiwan one day. It wasn’t on the top of my list (I really wanted to check out more of Europe) but your images definitely just moved it up A LOT. It looks gorgeous there.

Taiwan seems to be an awesome country. It has everything: beautiful cities, awesome nature and even great street art. Thank you for great tips and tempting itinerary.

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How to visit Taipei on a budget

Oct 20, 2023 • 12 min read

Eating on a budget is easy in Taipei © Charlesimage / Shutterstock

Taiwan is a thrilling East Asian destination deserving of your recognition.

The capital city of Taipei is where most travelers start their adventure, and despite being the nation’s most expensive city, a visit can still be done without breaking the bank. Here’s how to visit Taipei on a budget.

Is Taipei budget-friendly?

Absolutely! A number of the best Taipei attractions come free or very cheap, including visits to most museums, temples and parks around the city.

The secret to exploring Taipei on a budget is to move through the city like a resident – eating Taiwanese food, mastering public transport and quelling the urge to buy Western brands.

How much money do I need per day in Taipei?

That all depends on how easy you find it to integrate. If you’d like to tick off the more touristic attractions – by dining at Din Tai Feng and scaling Taipei 101 – you would have to budget around 2,000NTD (about $61US) per day. Add luxury hotel accommodations to the mix and you could be looking at as much as 5,000NTD (about $154US) per day.

To explore Taipei on a budget, however, we recommend sticking to small guesthouses or hostels, dining at local restaurants and moving out into nature when looking for things to do.

Travelers willing to stay in low-cost accommodation will find it relatively easy to stick to a more modest 1,000NTD ($31US) per day, perhaps as little as 600NTD ($18.55US) for the most frugal backpacker lifestyle.

Master the subway system with an EasyCard

One key aspect of budget travel in Taipei is to quickly figure out the public transport system. Compared to other metropolitan cities, Taipei’s transport system is very affordable and immaculately clean, with fees of around 20-30NTD for a single subway journey (inside an 11-kilometer radius) or 15NTD for a single bus fare.

Though there is an option to buy a daily or weekly travel pass, or even an unlimited Fun Pass that also covers all the big attractions, the city’s EasyCard is the best way to travel without limits on the subway (MRT), bus, Maokong gondola and YouBike system (at 10-30% less than a single ticket, plus discounts for multiple uses).

And, if you exceed the cost of a day pass with multiple journeys on your EasyCard, cardholders are reimbursed automatically at the end of the month.

To buy an EasyCard, simply ask at the information booth in any metro station, any 7-11 convenience store or find the automated card machine with the EasyCard logo. The one-off card fee is 100NTD, and you can top up any amount.

Hop on a YouBike and cycle the riverside

Taipei City’s YouBike system is free for rides up to 30 minutes and 10NTD per half hour for the first four hours – the half-hourly price increases the longer you have it. You’ll often find these bikes left undocked on the street while riders linger over lunch in Daan Forest Park or drinks at Dadaocheng Wharf – they’re that cheap!

In order to use a YouBike, you’ll need to register your EasyCard with a local phone number (easily done on the automated screens beside docking stations), and this is a good reason to pick up a prepaid SIM card at the airport when you arrive.

Nab a data plan on arrival

Contrary to what you might expect, Taiwan’s airports are the cheapest places to buy prepaid SIM cards, making onward connections and Google Search emergencies all the more convenient.

Even for a short trip, having data and internet access will allow you to navigate through the city with ease, discovering little-known gems championed on the dustiest corners of the internet.

Of the various companies offering prepaid SIM cards, Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile and T-Star all offer good rates (around 300NTD for three days or 500NTD for 10 days). For extra savings, try booking your SIM in advance on Klook before picking up at Taoyuan Airport. For long-term usage, T-Star is the only provider available for tourists.

Travelers squeezing every penny can alternatively make use of the free 4G service offered in certain areas across the city (such as Ximen and Xinyi districts) and inside most Taipei Metro stations. This service is slightly more inconvenient and less reliable than having your own data plan, but for free-and-fast 4G, you can’t complain.

Jump on the airport express bus from Taoyuan to Taipei

By all means, get a taxi from Taoyuan International Airport into Taipei City center, but be prepared to pay around 1,100NTD for the privilege. Thankfully, there are two convenient and cheap alternatives; the Taoyuan Airport subway line (MRT) and the 1819 Kuo Kuang bus service, which both run to Taipei Main Station.

Most importantly, you’ll pay a tenth of what you would for a taxi with a slightly longer journey time (just over one hour), costing 160NTD for the MRT and 135NTD for the bus.

Go high-end when picking a hostel

Hostel living has developed into a bit of an art form in Taiwan, influenced heavily by Japanese minimalism and capsule concepts. As such, budget travelers can consider booking an upscale hostel at a relatively low cost, opting for either a dormitory bed or a double room.

Despite being your biggest daily expense, dorm beds can allow you to cut costs to around 300-600NTD per night, while double rooms are priced similarly to hotel rooms, between 1,000-1,500NTD.

Solo travelers will get better value from dorm offerings, many of which have pod partitions and privacy curtains with clean and modern shared bathrooms.

Explore the night market crowds for cheap street eats

If the Taiwanese are famous for one thing, it is their dedication to late-night snacking. Perhaps the best places to find cheap eats in Taipei are the local night markets, dotted around the city in various unassuming spots and operating until 11 p.m. most nights.

Head to Songshan’s Raohe Night Market or otherwise search online for your nearest "夜市 (night market)" and join the streams of locals to snack on skewers of various meats – barbequed, roasted and braised. Give the fermented delicacy of stinky tofu a fair review while you’re at it.

You can wash it down with an inordinate variety of teas and tofu puddings, jazzed up with aloe vera, tapioca and brown sugar toppings.

Get your fill of fresh produce

Granted, eating out in Taiwan is never going to break the bank, and most accommodations don’t have kitchen facilities, but preparing yourself a spread of Taiwan tropical fruits is the very least you can do for your taste buds.

Even in the capital, you’re never far from farmland in Taiwan, meaning that domestic fruit and veggies are both flavorful and cheap. Eat local and in season for the lowest prices, sampling locally grown mango, watermelon and pineapple in summer (arguably the juiciest in the world), wax apple and custard apple (AKA Buddha’s head) in spring, and dragonfruit in fall.

Get busy on weekdays

There are a great many attractions in and outside Taipei worthy of your time. Weekday trips to the best sites can sometimes be cheaper; for example, discounted rides on the Maokong Gondola and ice skating at Taipei Arena .

By traveling on a weekday, you’ll also be avoiding the weekend crowds enjoying day trips near Taipei , maybe even nabbing a good seat on popular public services such as Pingxi Old Railway and trains running towards Keelung, Fulong Beach and Jiufen village.

​​Get savvy with museum admissions

Doing your research before heading out could help save a day’s budget and stop you from making the mistake of arriving on a Monday (they’re all closed).

The Taipei Fine Arts Museum offers free entry on Saturday evenings, and the National Palace Museum opens its doors for free on several special holidays (including New Year’s Day and National Day on October 10).

You can also combine your ticket purchases on top Taipei attractions to save money, adding the Miramar Ferris Wheel or Taipei 101 to your National Palace Museum ticket (350NTD for regular admission to the museum plus 50NTD for the Ferris Wheel or 470NTD for Taipei 101).

Avoid 101 and scale Elephant Mountain instead

The trouble with the view from Taipei 101 Observatory is that there’s no view of Taipei 101, the city’s most iconic building. For this disappointing discovery, you’ll have to fork out 600NTD. Savvy travelers will instead find the tallest structure nearby and scale that for better (and cheaper) views of the Taipei skyline.

My recommendation is the Elephant Mountain trailhead. Just a 20-minute walk from Taipei 101 or five minutes from Xiangshan MRT station, it leads visitors up a steep jungle track toward an exceptional cityscape with 101 in the center, framed by forest and mountains.

Free for all, this hiking trail is one of the city’s most popular, though foot traffic remains low outside of peak sunset-watching hours.

Ditch the mall and head straight to Yangmingshan

The icy allure of AC may tempt you to hide in a department store to avoid the sweltering afternoon heat (especially from May to August ), but to truly appreciate the free wonders of Taipei, you’ll need to get a sweat on.

Don your lightest clothing and set out in the early morning or late afternoon to visit Yangmingshan , a verdant mountain range that dominates the area just north of Taipei City, with 10 hikeable peaks to choose from. You can arrive at a trailhead within 50 minutes by bus from central Taipei, immersing yourself in nature on trails of varying difficulty (all for free).

All of the major peaks can be done in one (long) day of hiking for those with some experience. But if you don’t have 10 hours to spare, consider hitting one or two of the peaks via the Mt Datun trailhead (to conquer the main, south and west Datun peaks) or the Erziping trailhead.

If volcanic activity is your thing, head to Xiaoyoukeng for fumaroles and sulfur crystals (taking the S15 bus to Lengshuikeng from Jiantan or Shilin MRT station) before hiking to Qingtiangan Grasslands to help clear the eggy smell from your nose.

Fly to Taipei in winter

A solid piece of advice for any traveler is to fly to Taipei in winter (or during the short-lived autumn), from November to March. By doing so, you can swerve the typhoons and heavy rains that descend on the island throughout summer, also avoiding the extreme heat from May to August (regularly exceeding 35°C). And, as a bonus, you’ll save money.

The last thing you want is to break your budget by hailing a taxi on a humidity-induced whim, so traveling in the cooler months certainly helps cut costs. Walking and cycling become more amenable in winter, allowing cheap travel throughout the city and long, meandering rides along the city’s riverside bikeway without breaking into too much of a sweat.

As well as winter savings, budget travelers may consider the shoulder seasons of September and October and April and May to save money on flights and accommodation. Times you’ll want to avoid include Chinese New Year (early February), when everything in Taipei shuts down for several days and travel options outside the city skyrocket in price and inconvenience. August and December also see a rise in flight fares due to extra demand during school holidays.

Travel during Ghost Month

"Ghost Month" is a traditional Taoist festival running for one month on the Chinese calendar (around August). At this time, it is said the gates of the underworld open, and spirits are released to roam around and visit loved ones.

Though the spirits are not considered malicious, many locals avoid certain activities that may be inauspicious. Of these activities, travel is a big no-no, as is swimming in the sea or whistling at night.

Fearless and budget-conscious travelers can pay attention to when this festival starts in order to take advantage of lower accommodation fees in popular destinations near Taipei, such as Jiufen, Jiaoxi and Wulai Village.

Bathe with locals at Beitou Public Hot Springs

For the few weeks of the year when Taipei is cool enough to warrant a steaming bath, you may like to try a hot spring visit. Up in Beitou, you’ll find a range of hot springs resorts fed by mineral springs from Beitou’s Thermal Valley on the northern cusp of the city center (accessible by subway just 30 minutes from Taipei Main Station).

While you can certainly splash out on an upscale hotel to rival that of Japan’s best onsen towns at half the price, travelers on a smaller budget who don’t mind cleansing their pores alongside Taipei’s community of old folk can pay the 40NTD entrance fee to bathe at Beitou Public Hot Springs, arguably where the real party’s at.

Eat noodles, not pasta

Avoiding Western food while in Taipei will not only save you a good deal of cash, but it will also help bring you closer to authentic Taiwanese food culture. Even if there are no pictures to help you decipher a hand-scrawled menu in Chinese characters, don’t let that stop you from dining at a restaurant.

As a workaround, you can point to dishes of photos from reviewers on Google Maps or take a chance on the owner’s English skills (the younger they are, the more likely they’ll understand you).

A slightly more time-consuming method (but definitely the best way to score points with the locals) would be to learn Mandarin phrases for top Taiwanese dishes and numbers and then recite them when in search of food. For example, "yi wan" means "one bowl," and "neo row me-en" means "beef noodle." The vendors will at least pretend to be super impressed.

Consider exploring more of East Asia

Once in Asia, regional travel becomes a whole lot more affordable. Onward flights to the Philippines , Japan , South Korea and Indonesia are all offered by local budget airlines such as Scoot, Tiger Airways, JetStar Asia and Peach, with the best prices on weekdays outside of holiday seasons.

Take the slow train on day trips from Taipei

You might like the idea of speeding down the length of the country in the time it takes to watch an Ang Lee movie but traveling on the nation’s high-speed rail system (HSR) – modeled on the Japanese Shinkansen – is not the most affordable way to travel.

The cost of traveling 300 kilometers per hour from Taipei to Kaohsiung (Zuoying station) is 1,490NTD, though tickets with non-reserved seats do come slightly cheaper.

If time is on your side, consider taking a regular train to closer destinations such as Yilan or Hualien. This way you’ll save wildly, even on express train bookings. Prices to Yilan on the Taiwan Railway rarely exceed 200NTD, and it takes less than two hours, while Hualien’s Taroko Gorge becomes accessible within three hours at 400NTD.

Daily costs

Hostel room (dorm): 300-600NTD

Basic room for two: 700-1000NTD

Nice room for two: 1000-1500NTD

Self-catering apartment (including Airbnb): 1500-2000NTD

Public transport ticket: 35NTD

Coffee: 100-150NTD

Bubble tea: 50NTD

Night market meal for two: 200NTD

Restaurant meal for two: 600NTD

This article was first published May 11, 2022 and updated Oct 20, 2023.

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• Travel Planning Guide

Taiwan Travel Budget - Visit Taiwan on a Budget or Travel in Style

• Taiwan Costs

• Is Taiwan Expensive?
• How much does a trip to Taiwan cost?
• Tainan City
• Taiwan Hotel Prices
• Taiwan Cities: Hotel Prices by City
• Best Luxury Hotels in Taiwan
• Best Beach Hotels in Taiwan
• Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in Taiwan
• Best Hotels for One Night in Taiwan
• Best Cheap Hotels in Taiwan
• Best Party Hotels in Taiwan
• Best Hotels for One Week in Taiwan
• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in Taiwan
• Best Adults Only Hotels in Taiwan
• Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in Taiwan
• Best Business Hotels in Taiwan
• Best Hotels for Scuba Diving in Taiwan
• Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in Taiwan
• Best Family-Friendly Hotels in Taiwan
• Hostel Prices & Reviews
• Taiwan Tour Prices
• The Best Family-Friendly Tours to Taiwan
• The Best Historical Tours in Taiwan
• The Best Christmas & New Years Tours in Taiwan
• The Best Adventure Tours to Taiwan
• The Best Sightseeing Tours in Taiwan
• The Best Cultural Tours in Taiwan
• The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Taiwan
• The Best Tours for Seniors to Taiwan
• How much does it cost to travel to Taiwan? (Average Daily Cost)
• Taiwan trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

How much do package tours cost in Taiwan?

Is taiwan expensive to visit.

• How much do I need for a trip to Taiwan?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Budgeting Tips & Challenges
• Cost of Accommodation
• Cost of Transportation
• Cost of Food
• Cost of Sightseeing & Entertainment
• Cost of Alcohol & Nightlife
• Travel Guide

Taiwan is a diverse country known for it's beauty, culture, food, and exciting activities. To help plan your trip within your budget, our travel cost guide has everything you need for your journey. With tips and prices for hotels, food, activities, and transit, you can enjoy every moment without worrying about your budget.

How much does it cost to travel to Taiwan?

You should plan to spend around $113 (NT$3,622) per day on your vacation in Taiwan. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $17 (NT$541) on meals
• $11 (NT$363) on local transportation
• $142 (NT$4,556) on hotels

A one week trip to Taiwan for two people costs, on average, $1,583 (NT$50,708) . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 113 NT$ 3,622
• One Week Per person $ 791 NT$ 25,354
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 1,583 NT$ 50,708
• One Month Per person $ 3,391 NT$ 108,660
• One Week For a couple $ 1,583 NT$ 50,708
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 3,165 NT$ 101,416
• One Month For a couple $ 6,783 NT$ 217,320

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to Taiwan cost?

A one week trip to Taiwan usually costs around $791 (NT$25,354) for one person and $1,583 (NT$50,708) for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to Taiwan on average costs around $1,583 (NT$50,708) for one person and $3,165 (NT$101,416) for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in Taiwan will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to Taiwan on average costs around $3,391 (NT$108,660) for one person and $6,783 (NT$217,320) for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Organized tours are usually more expensive than independent travel, but offer convenience and peace of mind that your trip has been planned by a travel expert.

The average price for an organized tour package in Taiwan is $337 per day. While every tour varies by total price, length, number of destinations, and quality, this is the daily average price based on our analysis of available guided tours.

• Private 3-Day Tour to Sun Moon Lake and Alishan 3 Days - 4 Destinations $ 516
• Around Taiwan (Private) 6 Days - 9 Destinations $ 1,615

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Taiwan is a moderately priced destination to visit. It's about average with most other countries for travel costs. The prices for food, accommodation, and transportation are all fairly reasonable.

Within Asia, Taiwan is moderately priced compared to the other countries. The overall cost of travel here is comparable to South Korea or Japan.

For more details, see Is Taiwan Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to Taiwan?

The average Taiwan trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these Taiwan travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Realistic Expectations for Your Travel Budget

Having a realistic perspective on your budget is crucial. While many like to think of themselves as "budget" travelers who can scrape by on just $41 a day, most people find this way of traveling less enjoyable. Consider what you really love about travel and consider your previous travel experiences. Are you more inclined to stay in hostels, or do you prefer resorts or vacation rentals? Is dining out a priority for you? Your answers to these questions will shape your overall travel budget significantly.

Who Exactly is a Budget Traveler?

You may have heard that it's possible to visit Taiwan for around $41 a day, but if you want to maintain any level of comfort, you should be ready to spend considerably more.

While budget travelers might manage to travel on that amount, it often means staying in hostel dormitories, eating at budget restaurants or fast food joints, using public transport or walking, and sticking to free attractions.

Are You Considered an Average Traveler?

For couples or families traveling for fun, it's common to stay in mid-range hotels, dine at well-known restaurants, and visit the big museums and attractions that charge entry fees. You won't want to miss all of the major sights and attractions. As most activities are not free, you'll be spending at least some money on your trip. Given this, a more realistic daily budget would be around $113 per person, per day.

In Taiwan, you'll find plenty of hotels and vacation rentals to suit your needs. If you're traveling with a partner, friends, or your kids, then hotel costs will be divided, making it easier on your budget. Family-friendly destinations like Taitung City, Hengchun Township, and Ji'an Township offer hotels and restaurants with options tailored for kids. Some good places to stay are Summer Moonlight Vacation House in Taitung City or The Light in Hengchun Township. For more family- and couple-friendly places to stay, check out our hotel guide for Taiwan here .

What Luxury Travel Looks Like

If you're seeking a deluxe vacation that includes premium service and amenities, expect to pay around $334. This budget will cover luxurious hotels, award-winning dining, extravagant tours, and private transportation, landing you in the "luxury" travel range. You might even find yourself vacationing in high-end spots like Tainan City and Taipei. Also, make the most of your time by booking a high-end multi-day tour such as Abandoned Taiwan - offered by Crooked Compass.

Accommodation Budget in Taiwan

The wide range of prices for hotels and accommodation in Taiwan can be very surprising. Some destinations have much higher price tags than others, and even within the same areas you can find a big difference between the budget-friendly and higher-end hotels. Also, during peak season, prices are much higher. You can save a good bit of money if you travel during the low season or shoulder seasons, as room prices adjust according to the overall demand. Booking in advance can often save you money, too.

Average Daily Costs

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in Taiwan is $71 (NT$2,278). For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in Taiwan is $142 (NT$4,556). This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 71 NT$ 2,278
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 142 NT$ 4,556

Hotel Prices in Taiwan

Looking for a hotel in Taiwan? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in Taiwan based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $67. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Link World Hotel Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 120
• San Want Residences Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 70

Local Transportation Budget in Taiwan

The cost of a taxi ride in Taiwan is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $11 (NT$363) per person, per day, on local transportation in Taiwan.

• Local Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 11 NT$ 363

Local Transportation Tips

Recommended services.

• Taipei City to Taoyuan Airport Private Transfer Viator $ 46
• Taipei Private Transfer: Taiwan International Airport to Keelung Cruise Port Viator $ 115

What did other people spend on Local Transportation?

Typical prices for transit in Taiwan are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the overall transportation costs in Taiwan. Keep in mind that your individual costs will vary based on your method of transit, as hired cars such as taxis are generally much more expensive than public transportation.

• Easycard NT$ 300
• Easycard NT$ 65

Food Budget in Taiwan

While meal prices in Taiwan can vary, the average cost of food in Taiwan is $17 (NT$541) per day, based on the spending habits of previous travelers.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 17 NT$ 541

When dining out, the average daily cost for food in France is around $17 (NT$541) per person, with previous travelers spending from $6 to $46. Generally, breakfast and lunch cost less than dinner, but this will depend on the type of restaurant and what you order.

Typical meal prices in Taiwan are as follows:

• Breakfast: $2 to $5
• Lunch: $3 to $7
• Dinner: $5 to $12
• Fast Food or Street Food: $3

If you're planning to take a tour, make sure you know which meals are included beforehand. You might be on the hook to pay for some of the food yourself which can add to your budget.

When traveling with children, look for restaurants with a kids menu. This can save you plenty of money as these options tend to be much lower in price. Some restaurants don't list the kids' options on their menu, so ask the waiter before you order.

Many hotels include breakfast in their price, while some add it on as an extra charge. The price and quality can vary depending on the hotel. Knowing ahead of time can help you decide if you need to spend even more money. Maybe it's worth your money for the delicious buffet at the hotel. Or, perhaps you should just go to a nearby bakery or cafe that's much cheaper.

Carry a water bottle with you instead of buying drinks everywhere. It's also good for the environment.

Taking a food tour or cooking class is a great way to experience the culture in Taiwan. After all, cuisine is one of the reasons why so many people visit. A few of the best culinary activities here include:

• Street Food Cooking Class in Taipei : Gua Bao/Lu Rou Fan/Boba Tea for $75 details
• Xiao long bao, Pork thick soup, Bubble milk tea. (Taiwan Cooking Class)-B for $65 details
• Xiao Long Bao, Chicken vermicelli with mushroom and sesame oil, Tofu strips salad, Bubble milk tea. Taiwan Traditional Delicacies Experience-A (Taipei Cooking Class) for $77 details
• Taste Taipei: Private 6H Food Tour from Keelung Shore Excursion for $189 details

Recommended

• Street Food Cooking Class in Taipei : Gua Bao/Lu Rou Fan/Boba Tea Viator $ 75
• Xiao long bao, Pork thick soup, Bubble milk tea. (Taiwan Cooking Class)-B Viator $ 65

What did other people spend on Food?

Listed below are typical food prices in Taiwan, based on the actual spending of previous travelers. These figures provide an estimate of what you might expect to pay for meals. However, your personal expenses will depend on your dining preferences, the restaurants you choose, and what you decide to order.

• Louisa coffee NT$ 95
• Lunch NT$ 150
• Lunch NT$ 115
• Dinner NT$ 200
• Lunch NT$ 60
• Lunch NT$ 95
• EasyCard NT$ 1,000
• Lunch at The Can NT$ 220

Entertainment Budget in Taiwan

Entertainment and activities in Taiwan typically cost an average of $17 (NT$539) per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 17 NT$ 539

Entertainment Tips

Local tours that last a few hours can be a great way to explore Taiwan. Prices vary by the type of activity or tour, the dates, and the size of the group. Here are a few of the highest rated tours by previous visitors:

• Taipei Memory - 2 Days Tour for $200 details
• Private Cruise Tour from Keelung: Trip to Taipei for $210 details
• 2-Hour Private Dadaocheng Walking Tour for $35 details
• Guided Historical Tour in Taichung with Suncake DIY Experience for $45 details

Recommended Activities

• Taipei Memory - 2 Days Tour Viator $ 200
• Private Cruise Tour from Keelung: Trip to Taipei Viator $ 210

Alcohol Budget in Taiwan

The average person spends about $17 (NT$543) on alcoholic beverages in Taiwan per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 17 NT$ 543

Alcohol Tips

Sure, nightlife is a top travel activity, but if you want to save money, reducing how much you drink is a great way to start.

Tasting tours and nightlife activities are very popular in Taiwan. A few of the favorites from previous visitors include:

• Taipei Nightlife: Taipei Pub Crawls (2 Different Routes) for $30 details
• Taipei Nightlife: Taipei Pub Crawls (2 Different Routes) Get Your Guide $ 30

Budgeting and Travel Tips

• Taiwan is a hot spot for travelers, and as a result, prices can skyrocket when peak season rolls around. Typically, the biggest crowds flock to Taiwan during the summer months, and that's when hotels book up fast and accommodation costs shoot through the roof. If you're looking to save some cash, consider planning your trip during the shoulder or off-peak seasons when things are a bit quieter and easier on the wallet.

Related Articles

Taiwan on a budget.

At A Glance

• In general, Taiwan uses the Minguo calendar which counts the years since the establishment of the Republic of China in 1911. To determine the current year in AD simply add 1911. For example, 2015 is 104 in Minguo. Months and days are kept according to the standard Gregorian calendar, although the lunar calendar is used to determine most holidays.
• Several languages are spoken in Taiwan including Taiwanese, Mandarin, Hakka and several other Asian languages. There are also several aboriginal Austronesian languages spoken. In the North most people speak Mandarin as this is where you will find the highest concentration of "mainlanders". Taiwanese is also spoken there. In the south Taiwanese is more common.
• The Taiwanese currency, the New Taiwan dollar, can be exchanged both on the island and off of it. There are no restrictions. You will generally get the best rate if you wait to exchange your money after you arrive. Most banks will exchange money and there is a 24 hour currency exchange window at the airport.
• As is true throughout most of Asia, night markets are a popular activity in Taiwan. Night markets offer visits plenty of entertainment, shopping and food. Most are open air markets that are packed full of vendors selling anything and everything. Larger cities usually have a night market daily, but smaller cities may only have them once a week.
• There are any number of interesting souvenirs in Taiwan, but some of the most popular things to buy include Jade, electronics such as computers, tea, and lingzhi. Lingzhi is a Chinese herb that has many supposed health benefits without many side effects. It tends to be expensive as it has gained a reputation throughout East Asia. If you decide to buy Jade it is important to make sure what you are buying is real. Do some research before you spend a significant amount of money on anything.

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We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Taiwan Travel Budget: How Much Does It Cost To Travel Taiwan

By: Author Lotte

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2022

Categories Taiwan

Taiwan isn't on the radar of many travelers and I don't understand why. I really feel this small island deserves much more attention as it has much to offer!

Perhaps it's because travelers feel it will be too expensive and I admit I also wasn't sure what to expect from the cost of travel in Taiwan.

However, after spending a month in Taiwan I can safely say that it's a very affordable country!

In this post, you will find a full Taiwan trip budget breakdown and clever budget-saving tips in order to make the most of your money in Taiwan.

Taiwan travel budget

Disclosure: Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you!). We're very grateful when you use our links to make a purchase:-).

How to travel Taiwan on a budget

Wondering how much money to bring to Taiwan? You may be surprised to learn that during our trip around Taiwan we spent approximately  2065 NT / €63 / $69 per day  as a couple.

Is Taiwan cheap? Is Taiwan expensive? This obviously depends on your personal opinion, but for us, the daily amount we spent was similar to several countries in Southeast Asia.

While not among the cheapest places we traveled ( Sri Lanka is the cheapest country we've been to so far ) we were pleasantly surprised by how affordable Taiwan actually is.

In the infographic below you can find a detailed budget breakdown of our Taiwan trip to give you a quick overview of how much (or actually how little) you can spend during your trip in Taiwan.

Of course, the amount you’ll spend depends on your style of travel, the length of your trip, and the type of accommodation you choose.

However, compared to countries such as  Japan ,  New Zealand ,  Canada , and  Europe , Taiwan is a very affordable destination.

Generally speaking, you can travel around Taiwan on a budget of $35-$70 per day (per person). As you can see in the infographic, we spent $69 per day as a couple.

I’ll explain more about the total costs of a trip to Taiwan, plus how much we spent on accommodation, food, transport, and activities further on in the post.

Taiwan budget: facts and figures

• I traveled with my husband , and all the Taiwan expenses mentioned are for the two of us together.
• I quote prices in the New Taiwan Dollar ( NT ) ,  as well as in Euros ( € ) and US Dollars ( $) . When we were in Taiwan, €1 was around 33NT  and $1 was around 30NT. Of course, the exchange rate varies, you can check the current rate here .
• I spent 29 days in Taiwan, on an average day we spent 2065NT (€63/$69). I found prices in Taiwan to be fairly similar throughout the country.
• Our Taiwan trip budget includes all our travel costs in Taiwan, it does not include the costs of our tickets to Taiwan.
• Our Taiwan trip started in Kaohsiung and ended in Taipei . We also visited Kenting National Park , Tainan , Taichung, Sun Moon Lake , and Hualien .

How to save money when planning a trip to Taiwan

The good news is: traveling to Taiwan on a budget is definitely possible!

That being said, it's important to plan carefully, look for discounts, and be flexible with your itinerary to make the most of your travel budget for Taiwan.

I hope this post will give you an idea of the costs of traveling in Taiwan, as well as some practical tips about how to stretch your travel budget.

Avoid peak season (travel during shoulder season instead)

While there is no such thing as one main high season in Taiwan, there are some times of the year when domestic travel is at its peak. These are times to avoid because that's when accommodation prices are at their highest.

The busiest times when it comes to domestic travel are the Lunar New Year, the summer months (July and August), and, to a lesser extent, the weekends.

If you have the option to be flexible with your travel dates and avoid these months/times, this is a great way to save money on your Taiwan trip.

For example, we often made sure to avoid National Parks and popular day trip and weekend trip options (such as Sun Moon Lake and Kenting National Park) during the weekends.

Instead, we visited big cities. In our experience, hotel prices were generally lower there during the weekend, perhaps because there are fewer business travelers during those days.

Save money on flights

You can look for discounts on flights to Taiwan on websites like Kiwi.com . Try different travel dates and see how this affects the price of your flight.

Generally, the cheapest days to fly are Tuesday, Wednesday, and Saturday. Airlines often offer discounted fares on these days, so it's worth checking the booking sites and comparing prices on different days of the week.

You’ll get a better deal by booking your flight in advance. For domestic flights 1-3 months before your trip is ideal.

Although, within Taiwan, you don't really need to fly as the country is fairly small and you can easily cover the distances by high-speed rail (read more below).

For international flights, it’s best to book 2-8 months in advance. Tickets to Taipei (Taoyuan International Airport) are pretty much always the cheapest option but keep an eye open for tickets to Kaohsiung International Airport (the second-largest airport in Taiwan) as well.

Lastly, you may be able to find cheap flights if you're willing to be flexible with your departure and arrival times.

Sure, it’s not ideal to arrive in the middle of the night, but if it saves you hundreds of dollars it’s worth losing one night of good sleep.

✈️ Click here to find the best ticket deals

Book your accommodation in advance

Once you've got your flights booked, it’s time to research budget accommodation. I always use Agoda and Booking to find the best value-for-money accommodation for our trips.

I recommend checking both platforms before you book to make sure you get the best deal.

Please note that Agoda includes taxes in their price whereas Booking doesn't always include this. Make sure to check this before finalizing your booking.

Also, if you're in a country with hefty ATM fees or a limit on how much cash you can withdraw per transaction it can be better to book with Agoda as you can often pay online with your credit card (thereby reducing your need for cash).

Buy an EasyCard

I recommend that as soon as you arrive in Taiwan, you pick up an EasyCard .

You can use this pass all over Taiwan to pay for public transport (MRT, bicycles, buses, trains, ferries, etc.). What's more: an Easy Card gives you a discount on transport fares and saves you the hassle of having to pay with coins.

You can top up your credit in 7-11 and Family Mart (you can also pay with your EasyCard in these shops and several others).

Book discounted high-speed rail tickets online

An excellent way to save money is by booking discounted train tickets for Taiwan's efficient and comfortable high-speed rail online.

This great deal is only available to foreign travelers and it makes train travel in Taiwan even more enjoyable and affordable. ? Book discounted HSR tickets here .

Cost to travel Taiwan: our average daily expenses

Now that you know some great ways to save money in the planning phase of your Taiwan trip, it's time for a deep dive into our Taiwan expenses. Our daily budget can be divided into four categories:

• Accommodation costs : 37% of our daily expenses
• Transportation costs: 13% of our daily expenses
• Cost of food and drinks: 42% of our daily expenses
• Activity costs + miscellaneous expenses : 8% of our daily expenses

1. Where to stay in Taiwan on a budget

I was expecting accommodation to be more expensive but there is plenty of budget accommodation available in Taiwan!

We only stayed in private rooms (no dorm rooms), on average we spent  775NT / €23 / $26 per day . We stayed at hotels (booked via Agoda or Booking ) and accommodations via Airbnb.

In the table below you can find the places we stayed at, but I’ve also written a separate post about  our accommodation in Taiwan .

* Unfortunately, the Airbnbs we stayed at in Kaohsiung and Taipei are no longer available due to Covid-19. I've done my utmost to find a suitable alternative (see table) .

I've also updated the prices, which have increased since our trip to Taiwan. That being said, I still think the hotels listed are good and comfortable budget hotels in Taiwan that won't break the bank and offer excellent value for money.

Budget hotels we stayed at in Taiwan

• Kenting Light Blue Bed and Breakfast (Henghun) : a lovely B&B that is centrally located and offers great value for money. Large rooms with comfortable beds and shared bathroom facilities (very clean!). Book here .
• Honey B Trip B&B (Hualien) : this was our favorite accommodation in Taiwan. Our room was very big with a super comfortable bed. We even had a sofa and a small desk. The bathroom was modern with an excellent shower. Book here .
• 85 Good Time Hotel   85時光-高雄85大樓 (Kaohsiung) : situated in the famous 85 Sky Tower and a great place to base yourself for your Kaohsiung trip. The rooms have air conditioning, very comfortable beds, and a private bathroom. Book here .
• Itathao Hotel (Sun Moon Lake) : an affordable place to stay at Sun Moon Lake, especially compared to most other hotels in this area. A tasty Chinese breakfast is included in the price. Large double rooms with a beautiful mountain view. Book here .
• Modern Inn (Taichung) : rooms are beautifully designed and have a private bathroom and comfortable beds. The staff is very accommodating and the train station is only a 10-minute walk. Book here .
• Tie Dao Hotel (Tainan) : the location of the hotel is perfect, across the train station. Small but spotless room with a comfortable bed and a modern bathroom. Book here .
• Comma Boutique Hotel (Taipei) : a lovely place to stay in Taipei that won’t break the bank. Rooms are spacious and clean, with a modern ensuite bathroom. Rooms on higher floors offer a nice view over Taipei. Book here .

2. How to get around Taiwan on a budget

Let’s take a closer look at public transportation in Taiwan. There are many ways to travel around the country, such as high-speed trains, local trains and buses, taxis, and MRT (in Taipei and Kaohsiung).

What's more: getting around by public transport in Taiwan is easy and not expensive. We traveled by train, shuttle bus and local buses, MRT, taxi, and bicycle (my personal favorite).

A popular and affordable way to get around Taiwan is by bus. Buses are available in and between all major cities and towns, and they offer a wide range of routes to help you get to your destination.

For larger distances (Taipei to Taichung for example) you can take the high-speed train in Taiwan ( buy discounted tickets online ), which is the best way to get from one city to another quickly, and comfortably.

If you need help navigating the public transportation system, many tourist information centers offer maps and assistance.

How much did we spend on transportation in Taiwan?

Our average transport expenses were  260NT / €8 /$9  per day. You can find detailed information about how much it costs to travel from place to place in my Taiwan itinerary .

3. Our food costs in Taiwan

Taiwan is a foodie's paradise, with many delicious dishes to try! Some of the best things to eat in Taiwan include:

• Beef noodle soup
• Pork belly buns
• Oyster omelet
• Dan bing (scallion pancakes)
• Gua bao (Taiwanese hamburgers)
• Stinky tofu

All of these dishes are packed with flavor and are sure to have your taste buds dancing.

How much did we spend on food and drinks in Taiwan?

Good news: Taiwanese cuisine is not only really tasty, but it’s also very affordable! That is if you eat local food at local restaurants.

Eating Western Food always triples the price of dinner when traveling around Asia. So when it comes to food, eat at local restaurants and try delicious street food at some of the famous Taiwanese night markets whenever you have the chance.

Anyway, let's talk numbers .

We spent most of our Taiwan travel budget on food and drinks. On an average day, we spent 870NT / €27 / $29 .

My favorite things to eat (and drink) in Taiwan were beef noodles (both with soup and dry), Chao zhou noodles, dumplings with pork filling, bubble tea, and the amazing fresh fruit that was for sale everywhere.

In conclusion, while food prices in Taiwan are quite low but you'll probably still spend most of your Taiwan budget on food as there are simply too many tasty things to eat…

4. Cost of activities in Taiwan (+ miscellaneous expenses)

Make sure to take advantage of the many free activities that Taiwan has to offer.

Explore imposing and beautiful buildings (such as the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall), visit interesting museums (like the National Palace Museum), and admire ancient temples (like the Longshan Temple in Taipei).

Visit cultural cities such as Tainan , Taichung , and Taitung or go hiking in one of Taiwan's nine National Parks. Doing so will help you make the most of your vacation while still sticking to your budget.

Consider booking a few organized tours

When planning your Taiwan trip, it's worth looking into tour companies that offer affordable tours that can help you save money while still getting the best experience.

Klook is the largest tour operator in Taiwan, but Get Your Guide has been working really hard on growing their offers as well so be sure to check out those websites as well when you're planning your Taiwan activities.

Some of the most worthwhile tours and activities in Taiwan are:

Admire the view from the Taipei 101 Observatory : formerly the world's tallest building, Taipei 101 is one of the most popular tourist attractions and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Taipei . Get to the top of Taipei 101 in one of the world's fastest elevators (in just 37 seconds). Check availability .

Sun Moon Lake day trip : capture the stunning scenery of one of Taiwan's most scenic areas and immerse yourself in the natural beauty surrounded by mountains and rivers. Check availability .

Explore historic sites in Tainan : Tainan is the former capital of Taiwan and is famous for its history and culture. If you plan to visit several historic sites, be sure to purchase a Tainan Historic Sites Pass to save money .

Take a day trip to Taroko National Par k : discover the Taroko Gorge, one of the top nature wonders in Asia. Venture along the Swallows' Grotto Trail, get lunch at Tianxiang and visit the town's iconic red suspension bridge. Click here to book a day trip from Hualien or  book a day tour from Taipei .

Day trip from Taipei : visit Yehliu Geopark and the wonders of Queen's Head. Explore Jiufen Old Street, set off sky lanterns in Shifen Old Street, and admire the Golden Waterfalls. Check availability .

How much did we spend on activities in Taiwan?

We spent 160NT / €5 / $5  on paid activities (such as scooter rental, cinema tickets, and entrance fees for museums) and miscellaneous things (see below) on an average day.

Most things we did in Taiwan were free, you can find more details about all our Taiwan activities in my other Taiwan posts.

Miscellaneous costs in Taiwan

Miscellaneous costs may not be the correct term since the only expense in this category is a  Wifi router with unlimited data .

You can pick up this router at Taipei or Kaohsiung airport upon arrival. I think this Wifi router offers amazing value for money.

We connected up to 4 devices to it without any connectivity problems! Staying online was therefore not an issue in Taiwan.

Travel insurance costs

I didn't include the cost of travel insurance in our Taiwan budget breakdown because we use our travel insurance for all our trips, not just for our Taiwan itinerary.

However, that doesn't take away the fact that making sure you have proper travel insurance is super important .

It helps protect you and your belongings in the event of a mishap during your travels. Furthermore, it provides coverage for medical expenses, trip cancellation, lost or stolen items, and more.

Also, having good travel insurance will provide you peace of mind, knowing that if something goes wrong, you have a safety net in place.

With so much to consider when planning a trip, having the right travel insurance can help ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey without stressing out about things that can go wrong.

Plan your Taiwan trip like a pro with these tools: ? Pick up an EasyCard for cashless payments and to use public transport. ? Book discounted tickets for Taiwan's high-speed rail. ? Stay connected with a  Taiwan Wifi router . ? Plan your journey with the  T aiwan Lonely Planet . ?️ Find your dream accommodation on Booking.com or Agoda . ? Book the best tours via Klook or Get Your Guide . ?️ Travel safely and get reliable travel insurance from Safety Wing .

Our Taiwan expenses: in conclusion

I started this post by stating Taiwan isn't expensive and that it's easy to travel to this lovely island on a budget.

I hope this guide provides some insight into the average daily travel budget for Taiwan . Feel free to ask any questions you may have and enjoy planning your Taiwan vacation!

This post was updated in December 2022.

Steve Cummings

Sunday 16th of August 2020

It is a great breakdown of costs. As a resident of Taiwan, and doing a round trip of Taiwan right now with my wife, I would say you all did a great job. Your food portion of the budget looked quite expensive. My wife and I are working on a budget of 600NT for the two of us. We are quite frugal and want to experience a bunch, but not spend the most. We were lucky to have an amazing fish hot pot at Dapu lake for 100 NT each. Great post for sure. The food is amazing, the sights are great, and Taiwan is a great place to visit.

Monday 17th of August 2020

Thank you for reading and how wonderful you are living in Taiwan and making a roundtrip at the moment! I agree we spent quite a lot on food;-) It's definitely possible to spend less, especially if you speak Chinese and can eat at local places where there isn't even a menu. The fish hot pot sounds amazing! Enjoy your trip and I hope you find many more great food stops:-)

Saturday 21st of September 2019

FANTASTIC READING! EXACTLY WHAT I WAS LOOKING FOR, I WAS PLANNING ON GOING TO TAIWAN FOR 7 DAYS. AS I'M ON A PENSION AND WAS CONCERNED ABOUT THE COST. BUT I'VE SAVED UP ENOUGH TO GO FOR 7 DAYS NOW I'VE READ YOU ARTICLE, THANK YOU VERY MUCH. BREAK DOWN OF EVERY THING! I'VE LOOKED AT MANY BUT YOURS IS THE BEST BY FAR. SO IF ME AND MY WIFE GO WITH 1000 USD FOR 7 DAYS YOU THINK WE CAN HAVE A NICE TIME? MY FRIEND WHO WENT THERE SAID HE FOUND THE NORTH BETTER THAN THE CITY. WE LIKE TO TRAVEL, SO HOPE WE CAN FOLLOW YOU ON PLACES YOU HAVE BEEN. THANK YOU VERY MUCH, JOHN

Monday 30th of September 2019

Thank you very much reading and for your kind comment:-) With 1000 USD I think you will have a great time traveling Taiwan! I did like Taipei but it's also very worthwhile to explore other places, such as the Sun Moon Lake and Kenting or closer to Taipei (Beitou or Wulai).

Have a great trip! Lotte

Friday 8th of February 2019

Fantastic information! This will be quite useful when we will spend 3 months in Taiwan in our slow travel journey. Which of area of Taiwan do you think it's convenient with nature around? Thinking of spending a month going around the island in a car, already have 1 month booked in Taipei. Any tips are so welcome, thank you!

Monday 11th of February 2019

Wow 3 months in Taiwan sounds amazing! I think exploring the island by car is an excellent plan. The East Coast is the most beautiful in my opinion though if you have a car you can also explore the center of Taiwan which is very mountainous and beautiful hiking opportunities. Because we were limited to public transport we didn't get to visit those places but definitely would if I had a car and a month! Enjoy your trip:-)

Thursday 4th of October 2018

Hi! We are planning to travel as a family of four; we have 2 kids ages 6 and 3. Any recommendations on kid friendly things to do?

Thanks! Awesome blog.

Saturday 13th of October 2018

Thank you for your kind words, happy to hear you like my blog:-) About your question, I think there are lots of things to do with kids in Taiwan! In Taipei you could go to the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall or ride the Maokong Gondola. In Kaoshiung it's fun to take the ferry to Qijin Island. At the Sun Moon lake you can go boating if weather permits and in Tainan Anping Old Fort may be an interesting place to visit. I hope this helps! You can check out my Taiwan itinerary for more ideas about things to do: https://www.phenomenalglobe.com/taiwan-1-month-itinerary/.

Enjoy your trip! Lotte

Friday 20th of July 2018

Hey thats a really useful guide thank you! What time of year did you go? Are those average prices per person, or total as a couple? We are going for 2 weeks in November as a couple so its really helpful to see this! Thanks

Monday 23rd of July 2018

Thanks you, I'm happy to help:-) About your questions, I was in Taiwan in May 2017. All the prices I mention in the post are for the two of us together (so not per person). Have a wonderful trip in November!

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5D4N Taiwan Itinerary Under ₱10K — Taipei, Yilan, Keelung and Beyond

Discover the top tourist spots in this budget Taiwan itinerary covering Taipei, Yilan, Keelung, and Beitou.

I’d admit, Taiwan wasn’t the first county I had in mind when looking for a budget-friendly travel destination. But after our recent trip starting from the bustling Taipei, to charming Yilan, and historic Keelung, I’m convinced this is perhaps the best hidden gem.

With a budget of just ₱10,000, we’ll show you the best places to enjoy delicious local cuisine, immerse yourself in the vibrant night markets, and explore stunning natural landscapes without breaking the bank.

So if you’re ready to embark on an adventure that’s equal parts affordable and unforgettable, here’s the perfect 5-day, 4-night Taiwan itinerary to help you make the most of your trip.

Taiwan Trip Budget Breakdown

Activities: ₱5,931 Transport: ₱2,663 Night Market Food: ₱883 TOTAL:  ₱9,476 (1PHP = NT$0.56)

*flights and accommodation weren’t included as prices fluctuate depending on seasonality. We also travelled in a group of four, which means that we were able to split food and some transport costs.

(This also does not include the tour in Pinglin District.)

Day 1: Jiufen, Shifen & Surrounds

Jiufen old street.

If you’re looking for tasty street food in a scenic place, take a day trip to the streets of Jiufen . This alleyway inspired by Spirited Away is filled with cheap but delicious food stalls that will leave you wanting more. Here are some of our most-recommended eats from Jiufen.

1) A-Jou Peanut Ice Cream Roll (~₱90): Contrary to the name, peanut ice cream rolls are actually savory. Peanuts, pork, and cabbage are rolled crepe-style to make for a unique dessert. This isn’t sold in a lot of night markets in Taiwan, so I recommend you buy one immediately if you come across a stall that sells this.

2) Ah Po Taro Balls (~₱90): Taro balls are one of the most popular desserts in Taiwan that can be eaten hot or cold. And what better way to know what it tastes like than getting it from the region where it originated?

3) Zhang Ti Traditional Fish Balls (~₱153): Enjoy traditional rice meals like the ones they sell here in Manila but with a Taiwanese twist. Their lo rou fan (braised pork rice) tastes similar to pork adobo, while their dried noodles are like pansit with thicker sauce.

4) Discover Grilled Sausages (~₱72): Taiwanese sausages are usually served in sticks and are great when you want to snack as you go!

Cost: ~₱405 (~NT$226) Opening hours:  10AM – 9:30PM

A-Mei Tea House

While we didn’t get to try out the tea in A-Mei Tea House (we’re reserving tea time for later 😉), we visited the place to take photos here since it has a stunning view of Jiufen.

It’s typically swamped with tourists not only because of its tea experiences and ceremonies but also because it’s rumored to have inspired certain scenes from Spirited Away .

Cost: Free if you’re just passing by (~₱535/pax for the tea experience) Opening hours:  8AM – 7PM (Mon – Thu), 8AM – 10PM (Fri – Sun)

Shifen Waterfall

Perhaps one of the most famous natural beauties in all of Taiwan, the 40m cascading Shifen Waterfall is a must-add to your Taiwan itinerary. If you’re visiting on a sunny day, you might even be lucky enough to be greeted with the sight of a rainbow radiating over its lake.

Entrance fee:  Free Opening hours:  9AM – 6PM Address:  No. 10, Gankeng Road, Nanshan Village, Pingxi District, New Taipei, Taiwan 226

Shifen Old Street

If you’ve had a friend visit Taiwan, then I bet you’ve probably seen them post this place on their Instagram feed.

Tourists come to Shifen Old Street not only to walk along its famous train tracks but also to light up and fly sky lanterns for good luck. Just go to one of the many nearby shops that sell lanterns and write down your wishes. Legend has it that gods will be reading whatever’s on the lantern so go manifest it, bestie! ✨

Cost: ~₱360/lantern (~NT$200) Opening hours:  24 hours Address:  No. 81, Shifen Street, Pingxi District, New Taipei, Taiwan 226

Golden Waterfall

If you’re looking for a more unique-looking waterfall to add to your Taiwan itinerary (because let’s face it, the Philippines still has better ones 🤭), then consider visiting the Golden Waterfall .

The water from here is a rusty orange color which is a result of mineral reactions and mining activity from the town of Jinguashi. Going on a rainy day is better as you’ll get to see the water flow in all its glory.

Entrance fee:  Free Opening hours:  24 hours How to get there:  Drive 40 mins from Yehliu Geopark

Yehliu Geopark

Walk through the 1.7 km-long cape that is the Yehliu Geopark . It’s giving Mars vibes with the quirky and unique rock formations scattered all over the place. But what makes it really impressive is the fact that everything’s formed by the greatest artist that ever lived: Mother Nature!

Our personal favorites include the Cute Princess Head, the Elephant Rock, and the Fairy Shoe. However, the show-stealer of the park is called the Queen’s Head (pictured above) — which resembles Queen Elizabeth if you squint really, really hard and look at it from certain angles. Kinda looks like Disney’s Maleficent if you ask me!

Entrance fee:   ~₱216 Opening hours:  8AM – 5PM How to get there:  Drive 45 mins from Taipei Main Station

Day 2: Taipei City

Gaki hip museum.

This place is one for the Instagram books! Gaki Hip celebrates Taiwanese culture in modern, hip fashion with immersive experiences and exhibitions. Boba tea lovers will love the room dedicated to the Taiwanese staple.

Or if you’re looking to add a playful twist to your feed, take a picture in a giant claw machine filled with unicorns. We even got to exchange inspiring anonymous messages with other museum visitors thanks to the “stranger note exchanger” exhibit.

*Note:  Gaki Hip is only open until 12 May 2023, but check out the Gaki Hip page  for details of future exhibitions. For similar alternatives in Taipei, check out the  Taipei Astronomical Museum .

Entrance fee:   From ₱645 Opening hours:  11:30AM – 8 PM Address:  13F, No. 66, Section 1, Zhongxiao West Road, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, 100

It’s a no-brainer to include Taipei 101 in your Taiwan itinerary if you’re visiting for the first time. It’s hard to miss what was once the world’s tallest building, as it sticks out in the best of ways.

The 101-storey building resembles a giant bamboo stalk and is nothing short of magnificent to view, especially if you take a short hike up Elephant Mountain. Or choose to feel like a god by viewing the entire city from the tower observatory instead.

Cost: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: No. 7, Section 5, Xinyi Road, Xinyi District

Jinmianshan Hiking Trail

If you don’t want to pay for a Taipei 101 observatory ticket or fight crowds in Elephant Mountain, then you might enjoy climbing the Jinmianshan Hiking Trail instead.

While the trail is beginner-friendly, it can be quite steep at times. However, the aunties climbing with you will give you that extra motivation you need! It took around an hour to reach the windy peak where we were rewarded with a picturesque view of the city.

Cost:  Free Opening hours:  24 hours How to get there:  Walk 11 mins from Xihu Station to trailhead, then hike 1hr to peak

Ningxia Night Market

Make sure you always add a night market to your budget Taiwan itinerary since you’ll most likely get a lot of good food for cheap. We tried the Ningxia Night Market which has incredibly diverse food options to choose from. Some highlights from our food trip here include:

1) Fried chicken bites (~₱144): I’ve made it my personal mission to try fried chicken in every country I visit, these did not disappoint! There are various flavors to choose from — my favourite was the chili pepper.

2) Mozzarella churros (~₱117): Churros stuffed with mozzarella sounded crazy enough to work, so of course we had to try it. It’s like those Kdrama corndogs but made tastier because they use churros instead of pancake mix!

3) Lok Lok (~₱117): Grilled skewers are a Taiwanese night market staple, and you can never go wrong with trying them out! Just choose the meat that you want and they’ll cook it in front of you.

4) Mochi balls (~₱45/pc): Mochi here are different because these balls are fried, and then rolled in different powdered flavors like peanut and black sesame.

Cost: ~₱423 (~NT$237) Opening hours:  5PM – 1AM Address: 103, Taiwan, Taipei City, Datong District, Ningxia Rd, 寧夏夜市

Read also: 25 Unique Things To Do In Taiwan Besides Visiting Night Markets

Day 3: Beitou

Travelling here is easy: just ride the MRT Red Line to Xinbeitou Station.

Water House (private bathhouse for two)

Beitou is the land of hot springs, so of course we had to try one out for ourselves! For this trip, we went to the Water House in Xinbeitou for a relaxing bath.

We opted for the private room instead of the public hot spring because we were tired from the trip, and wanted some total R&R. The Japanese-styled interior added to the mellow vibe that we were after.

And take note you will still need to wear appropriate swimwear to enter!

Cost: ~₱1,680/90 mins (NT$933) Opening hours: 24 hours Address: Water House, No. 248, Guangming Rd, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan 112

Beitou Hot Spring Park

After taking a long bath, take a stroll down Beitou Hot Spring Park to continue the “zen”-liness of your trip. Explore grasslands and see the famous hot spring fountain that encapsulates what the region is all about.

Then get an immersive experience of what it feels like to be a dumpling in a steamer, as you feel the steam from natural hot sulfur springs blowing in your face. Warning: it may not be a pleasant experience when you’re visiting during summer!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 24 hours Address: No.250 Guangming Road, Beitou District, Beitou, Taipei Taiwan

Beitou Hot Spring Museum

A museum about hot springs may not be for everyone, but for the curious travellers this may be a worthwhile stop.

The Beitou Hot Spring Museum was built during the Japanese colonial period with exhibitions, baths, and historical relics that showcase the history of the region. Great for a quick photo-op!

Entrance fee: Free Opening hours: 10AM – 6PM, closed on Mondays Address: No. 2, Zhongshan Rd, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan 112

Junjianyan Hiking Trail

Another beginner-friendly hiking trail, making it great to take on with friends.

On the way, you’ll see beautiful rock formations and lush greeneries. When you reach the peak of Junjianyan Hiking Trail , you’ll be greeted with a view of the Taipei 101, and the Pacific Ocean coastline. Or if you’re lucky, you’ll even be able to watch airplanes fly by!

Just be sure to go here during the weekdays since a lot of tourists tend to visit on weekends, although the good news is it’s still less frequented compared to other hiking trails like the Elephant Mountain Trail , and the Hushan Hiking Trail .

Opening hours: 24 hours Address: Qiyan Rd, Beitou District, Taipei City, Taiwan 112 How to get here: Alight at Qilian Station to start from National Yang Ming Chiao Tung University entrance

Day 4: Yilan

Nanao river.

Add some thrill to your Taiwan itinerary by rafting along the smooth waters of the Nanao River . Enjoy the beauty of the countryside in an exciting way that will simultaneously get your adrenaline rush pumping.

The weather was pretty cold when we went (close to 10°C). But the waterfalls and the memories we made screaming together made the whole thing worth it.

Cost: ~₱1,778/pax (~NT$987) Activity time slots: 9AM or 1PM Address : Na Sun Na Gu Leisure Farm, No.2, Jinyang Rd, Nan’ao Township, Yilan County 27246, Taiwan

*Pro-tip: Book the 9AM slot so you’ll be able to fit in the other activities for the day.

Zhang Mei Ama’s Farm

Relax after river rafting and visit some cute little creatures at Zhang Mei Ama’s Farm . It’s a great place for families and friends alike since you’ll get an up-close experience with some animals you may not have encountered before.

Feed Sika Deer, pet capybaras, or take some photos of kangaroos. They also offer cooking classes and vegetable harvesting for a more hands-on experience.

Cost: ~₱360/pax (NT$200) Opening hours: 9AM – 5:30PM on weekdays, 8:30AM – 1:30PM on weekends Address: 266, Taiwan, Yilan County, Sanxing Township, 行健溪一路二段161號

Read also: 8D Eastern Taiwan Itinerary: The Gateway to Nature’s Best Adventures (Yilan, Hualien, Taitung and Kenting)

Day 5: Keelung City

Heping island park.

Enjoy great ocean views and see more beautiful rock formations in the shape of a mushroom when you visit Heping Island, much like the ones you’d see in Yehliu Geopark. We were able to hike through the Huanshan trail where we caught an amazing view of waves crashing against the coastline.

There’s even a public swimming pool to take a dip in, cabin houses, and numerous food stalls for you to explore here.

Entrance fee:   ~₱216/pax (NT$120) Opening hours:  8AM – 6PM Address:  No. 360, Pingyi Road, Zhongzheng District, Keelung, Taiwan 202

Zhengbin Port Color Houses

Located south of Heping Island is a popular Instagrammable spot named the Zhengbin Port Color Houses . As the name suggests, tourists love taking pictures against the backdrop of colorful houses, built during the Japanese occupation. It’s pretty similar to the Colors of StoBoSa attraction in La Trinidad, Benguet.

Cost:  Free Opening hours:  24 hours Address:  No. 72, Zhengbin Road, Zhongzheng District, Keelung City, Taiwan 202

Wangyou Valley

The 40-minute scenic trail along Wangyou Valley was made even more special by the fact that it wasn’t packed with tourists when we went (probably because it rained earlier in the day). This made for a peaceful hike where we were able to fully bask in the beautiful views nature had to offer.

Entrance fee:  Free Opening hours:  24 hours Address: Zhongzheng District, Keelung City, Taiwan 202

Keelung Miaokou Night Market

Photo credit: @gz.huang_ via Instagram

Keelung Night Market is probably the most famous night market in the city, so we had to put it in our Taiwan itinerary to see if there was anything remarkable about it.

True enough, we noticed that unlike most night markets in Taiwan, many food stalls had English, Japanese, and Mandarin to cater to tourists.

Nutritious Sandwich from Keelung Night Market

Some of the food we tried here included rice toppings, and a milk-flavored Pao Pao Ice Cream (Taiwanese shaved ice with toppings). One of the more unique food items we tried was called a Nutritious Sandwich — fried dough bread filled with braised egg, cucumber, tomato, and meat topped with sweet mayonnaise.

As always, we left the night market with both our stomachs and wallets feeling happy!

Total food cost: ~₱566 (~NT$315) Opening hours:  12PM – 12 AM (Mon – Sat), 8AM – 12 AM (Sun) Address:   No. 20, Aisi Rd, Ren’ai District, Keelung City, Taiwan 200

Extra Day: Pinglin District

Got some extra time in Taiwan? We’d recommend this unique half-day tour in Pinglin from Taipei!

While we could’ve just gone to all the attractions below ourselves, it was more convenient to book a tour so we didn’t have to worry about how to get from point A to point B.

Cost: ₱2,135/pax (NT$1,186) Tour timings: 1PM – 6PM Pick-up point: MRT Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station

Bagua Tea Garden and Thousand Island Lake

The Bagua Tea Plantation  in  Shiding was our first stop, where the Taiwan-famous Baozhong oolong tea is grown and cultivated. This place was reminiscent of Banaue Rice Terraces, especially with the amazing views both of them have to offer.

From here, you get to see the emerald waters of the Thousand Island Lake. They’re incredibly crystal clear that citizens actually drink water from here. But perhaps one of the things that made this part of the trip memorable was the lack of tourists in the area, making it a peaceful trek.

Entrance fee:  Free Opening hours:  24 hours How to get there:  Drive 50 mins from Zhongxiao Xinsheng Station

Pinglin Tea Museum

Tea culture is such a big thing in Taiwan, just like how wine is so ingrained in Italian culture. This is why learning about tea — how it’s made, its cultural significance, and how to appreciate it better — is a worthwhile activity when you’re here.

The  Pinglin Tea Museum even has interactive exhibits, like one where we got to smell the different types of tea.

Cost:  From ~₱143 (NT$80), included in tour Opening hours:  9AM – 5PM (Mon – Fri), 9AM – 5:30PM (Sat – Sun) Address:  No. 19-1, Shuisongqikeng Road, Pinglin District, New Taipei City

Shiding Old Street Tea Tasting

And of course, a trip to Pinglin wouldn’t be complete without a tea-tasting experience. We headed to Xuanziwu in Shiding Old Street where a tea master taught us a lot of things about Taiwanese tea culture such as tea ceremony customs.

After learning about how tea should be made, we tried three different types of tea:  baozhong  oolong tea, tung ting  oolong tea, and the honey-scented grasshopper black tea, which was our personal favourite!

Cost:  Included in tour Opening hours:  9AM – 8PM Address:  No. 31, Pinglin St, Pinglin District, New Taipei City, Taiwan 23241

Accommodation in Taipei

To make your trip to Taiwan more convenient (no lugging around your suitcases!) and affordable, it may be better to stay in one accommodation for all nights. They have a remarkable train and bus system anyway, so returning to your accommodation shouldn’t be a huge problem.

We recommend staying near the Taipei Main Station as it’s a common pick-up point for the day trips in this itinerary.

Finders Hotel: ~ ₱2,945 /night  (sleeps 2) SleepBox Hotel: ~₱1,472/night Beimen Wow Poshtel: ~₱1,145/night

Transport for day trips

Taiwan has a robust public bus and train system, so getting from one attraction to another is relatively easy. It’s your most budget-friendly option when travelling alone or with only one partner. Just be sure to secure an EasyCard (Taiwan’s transportation card) when you’re there.

For our trip, we chose to take day trips from Taipei, instead of riding public transportation to get to the different places quicker. This is an option you might prefer when you’re a group of four like us. Less time lining up for trains and buses, more time for quick naps!

It also comes with the added benefit of our drivers letting us in on what locals like to do and go to. Here are the arrangements we went for:

–  Day tour to Jiufen, Shifen and Yehliu –  Private charter to get around Keelung –  Half-day tour to Shiding

For Beitou, we just chose to ride the MRT since it didn’t involve any line transfers from Taipei Main Station.

Planning your Taiwan itinerary on a budget

Visiting Taiwan for our company bootcamp trip made me realize that it’s a great country to visit with friends since it’s beautiful and affordable… as long as you visit the right places.

I have two major tips when you’re laying out your Taiwan itinerary:

1) Plan in advance. Accommodation and flights take up a lot of your travel expenses, but both these things can be booked in advance for cheap. Watch out for any piso fare or airline anniversary sales, and travel fairs.

2) Look for options. Sometimes, it’s just more ideal to try the cheaper route (e.g. taking the train to Beitou) but it’s also important not to tire yourself out when travelling, so taking day tours may be more ideal. Personally, we like browsing through Klook and checking our options there, and tour/admission fees are even cheaper at times.

Check out some of our Taiwan itineraries and guides: – 9D Taiwan Itinerary Under S$100/day From Taipei to Kaohsiung – Exploring Taiwan by High-Speed Rail — Guide to Maximising your THSR Pass – Taipei Day Trip: Shifen & Jiufen Guide To All The Must-Eat-See-Dos

Which places are you definitely placing in your Taiwan itinerary? Share your thoughts with us in the comments!

For more travel inspiration, follow us on  Facebook ,  Instagram ,  YouTube , and  Telegram !

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Planning a trip to Taiwan can be exciting, as the island is full of culture, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. From bustling markets to peaceful mountains, there’s something for every traveler. A solid plan is key to making the most of your visit. One tool that will help you stay connected during your journey is a Taiwan tourist eSIM . This ensures reliable internet access for maps, bookings, and more, helping your trip go smoothly.

1. Understand Taiwan’s Geography

Before creating your itinerary, it’s important to familiarize yourself with Taiwan’s layout. The island is long and narrow, combining city life and nature. The west coast is home to busy cities like Taipei and Taichung, while the east offers serene landscapes.

Many tourists start in Taipei in the north and gradually move south to explore the different regions. A Taiwan eSIM will help access maps and navigate these diverse areas efficiently.

2. Identify Must-See Attractions

Once you understand Taiwan’s geography, decide on the key attractions you want to visit. Highlights in Taipei include Taipei 101, Ximending, and Shilin Night Market. Consider visiting Jiufen for its historical charm and Taroko National Park for breathtaking hikes outside the city.

Make sure to include some relaxation in your itinerary. Taiwan is known for its hot springs, particularly in Beitou and Wulai. Your Taiwan eSIM will help you check hours, get directions, and find nearby attractions without hassle.

3. Plan Around Festivals and Events

Taiwan hosts a variety of cultural festivals throughout the year. The Lantern Festival and Dragon Boat Festival are just two events that draw visitors. These festivals offer a special opportunity to experience Taiwan’s traditions up close.

It’s smart to check festival dates in advance and include them in your itinerary if they align with your travel dates. Having a Taiwan travel eSIM makes looking up festival information easy, booking tickets, and staying updated on event schedules.

4. Plan Your Transportation

Thanks to its well-developed transportation system, getting around Taiwan is simple. The high-speed rail (HSR) connects major cities, making it easy to travel long distances quickly. Taiwan’s metro and bus systems are reliable and affordable for local travel.

Consider getting an EasyCard for convenient access to public transportation. Using your Taiwan travel eSIM, you can check train schedules bus routes, and book tickets online, ensuring your transportation plans run smoothly.

5. Budget for Accommodations and Food

Taiwan offers a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. If you’re traveling during a busy season, booking accommodations in advance is wise. Websites and apps make comparing prices and finding the best deals easy.

When it comes to food, Taiwan is a street food paradise. Night markets are found in nearly every city, offering a range of dishes from beef noodle soup to bubble tea. Your Taiwan travel eSIM helps you look up restaurant reviews, find must-try dishes, and even locate nearby night markets.

6. Be Prepared for Emergencies

Taiwan is a safe country, but it’s always good to be prepared for emergencies. Whether you need medical help or need to contact local authorities, your Taiwan travel eSIM will allow you to look up emergency services quickly.

Stay connected and informed using your eSIM to find nearby hospitals, pharmacies, or clinics. It’s also helpful for accessing translation apps if you need assistance from locals.

7. Leave Room for Spontaneity

While planning is essential, allowing room for flexibility can lead to some of the best travel experiences. Taiwan is full of hidden gems that may not be on your original itinerary, like a tucked-away temple or an unexpected local event. Your Taiwan travel eSIM makes it easy to adjust your plans on the go.

Whether you extend your stay in a charming town or visit a new attraction, staying connected ensures you can adapt without stress. Flexibility allows you to enjoy the surprises Taiwan has in store for you entirely.

Planning the perfect trip to Taiwan doesn’t have to be overwhelming. You can create a well-rounded itinerary by exploring both the island’s urban and natural sides, prioritizing key destinations, and staying connected with a Taiwan travel eSIM. Taiwan offers many experiences, from vibrant city life to peaceful natural escapes. With a little planning and some flexibility, your trip to Taiwan will be one to remember. Stay connected, easily explore, and make the most of your Taiwanese adventure.

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Discover the Best Places to Stay in Kaohsiung: Top Accommodations for Every Traveler

Welcome to Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s bustling port city that offers unique experiences for every type of traveler. Whether you’re a backpacker, a luxury seeker, or a family on vacation, this guide will help you find the best places to stay in Kaohsiung.

Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Kaohsiung

Sinsing district: for first-time visitors.

Sinsing District is the heart of Kaohsiung and a prime location for tourists. It’s close to major attractions like the Liuhe Night Market, Central Park, and Formosa Boulevard Station. Staying here ensures you’re in the middle of the action, with easy access to shopping, dining, and sightseeing.

Lingya District: For the Vibrant Nightlife

For those who love nightlife, Lingya District is the place to be. It’s home to the 85 Sky Tower and Sanduo Shopping District. There’s no shortage of late-night entertainment, with numerous bars, clubs, and night markets.

Sanmin District: For Budget Travelers

Sanmin District is known for its budget-friendly accommodations and proximity to Kaohsiung Main Station. It’s perfect for travelers looking to save money while still being close to the city’s main attractions.

Yancheng District: For Culture and History Enthusiasts

Yancheng District offers a blend of old and new, with historic sites like the Pier-2 Art Center. This district is an ideal choice for those who want to explore Kaohsiung’s cultural heritage.

Gushan District: For Nature Lovers

Gushan District is home to the beautiful Shoushan (Monkey Mountain) and the scenic Sizihwan Bay. It’s a haven for nature enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and beach activities.

Top Accommodations in Kaohsiung

Luxury hotels.

For those seeking luxury, Kaohsiung has some amazing hotels that offer top-notch amenities and services. One of the best experiences can be found at the Grand Hi-Lai Hotel , which offers stunning views of the Love River and impeccable service.

Boutique Hotels

Boutique hotels in Kaohsiung combine style, comfort, and a personal touch. The PAPO’A Hotel is a top choice for travelers looking for a chic and intimate lodging experience.

Budget Accommodations

If you’re traveling on a budget, there are plenty of affordable options in Kaohsiung. Paper Plane Hostel is highly recommended for its clean facilities, friendly staff, and convenient location near public transport.

Family-Friendly Hotels

Kaohsiung is a great destination for families, and there are many hotels that cater to this demographic. Hotel Indigo Kaohsiung Central Park offers family rooms and a variety of kid-friendly amenities that ensure a comfortable stay for everyone.

Unique Stays

For those looking for a unique experience, Kaohsiung offers a variety of interesting lodging options. Consider staying in a refurbished container at the In Young Hotel , which offers an unusual and memorable stay near the harbor.

Transportation and Accessibility

Getting around Kaohsiung is quite easy, thanks to the efficient public transportation system. The Kaohsiung MRT, buses, and YouBike bike-sharing program make it convenient to explore the city.

Kaohsiung International Airport serves many international and domestic flights, making it the main gateway to the city. From the airport, it’s easy to catch a taxi or take the MRT to your accommodation.

Practical Information for Travelers

Kaohsiung experiences a tropical climate, so it’s best to pack light, breathable clothing. The local currency is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD), and credit cards are widely accepted. Free Wi-Fi is available in many public areas, but it doesn’t hurt to have a local SIM card for convenience.

When it comes to cultural etiquette, be sure to respect local customs. Greetings are usually polite and reserved, and it’s always good practice to learn a few basic Mandarin phrases to enhance your interactions with locals.

Overall, Kaohsiung offers a wide variety of accommodations and an abundance of attractions to explore. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or coming back for more, there’s always something new to discover in this vibrant city.

Kaohsiung promises a delightful experience full of culture, history, and modern amenities. No matter where you choose to stay, you’re sure to create memorable experiences in this beautiful city. Remember to explore its diverse districts, each offering something unique and spectacular.

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Last Updated: September 25, 2024

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