Best Places to Visit in Taiwan | Travel Guide (2024) | Things to Do, See & Eat
Taiwan Travel Guide
Quick overview of Taiwan with our expert tips and insights. Jump to any section.
Welcome to Taiwan, a captivating island located off the southeastern coast of China. Known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and mouthwatering cuisine, Taiwan offers a truly unique travel experience. From the bustling streets of Taipei, the capital city, to the serene beauty of Taroko Gorge, there is something for every type of traveler to enjoy. Immerse yourself in the rich history and traditions of the indigenous tribes, explore the bustling night markets, or embark on a scenic hike through the lush mountains. With its friendly locals, efficient transportation system, and a wide range of attractions, Taiwan is a destination that should not be missed.
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Best Places To Visit in Taiwan
1. Taipei : The capital city of Taiwan is a bustling metropolis with a mix of modern and traditional architecture. Visit the iconic Taipei 101 skyscraper, explore the night markets for delicious street food, and take a scenic hike up Elephant Mountain for stunning views of the city.
2. Kaohsiung : Located in southern Taiwan, Kaohsiung is a vibrant port city with a rich history and culture. Visit the Lotus Pond to see the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, explore the Pier-2 Art Center for contemporary art, and take a stroll along the Love River for a romantic evening.
3. Tainan : Known as the cultural capital of Taiwan, Tainan is a city filled with ancient temples, traditional markets, and delicious local cuisine. Visit the Chihkan Tower for a glimpse into Taiwan's history, try the famous Tainan-style beef soup, and explore the Anping Old Street for souvenirs.
4. Hualien : Located on the east coast of Taiwan, Hualien is a nature lover's paradise with stunning scenery and outdoor activities. Visit Taroko National Park for breathtaking views of the marble gorge, hike the Qingshui Cliff for a thrilling adventure, and try the local seafood at the Dongdamen Night Market.
5. Taichung : Known as the "city of culture," Taichung is a vibrant city with a mix of modern and traditional attractions. Visit the Rainbow Village for colorful murals, explore the National Museum of Natural Science for interactive exhibits, and try the famous sun cakes at the Fengjia Night Market.
6. Shanghai : Located in eastern China, Shanghai is a cosmopolitan city with a mix of modern and traditional architecture. Visit the iconic Oriental Pearl Tower for stunning views of the city, explore the historic Bund for a glimpse into Shanghai's past, and try the famous xiaolongbao dumplings at Din Tai Fung.
7. Beijing : The capital city of China, Beijing is a city filled with ancient history and culture. Visit the iconic Great Wall of China for a once-in-a-lifetime experience, explore the Forbidden City for a glimpse into China's imperial past, and try the famous Peking duck at Quanjude.
8. Xi'an : Located in central China, Xi'an is a city with a rich history and culture. Visit the Terracotta Warriors for a glimpse into China's ancient past, explore the Muslim Quarter for delicious street food, and take a stroll along the ancient city walls for stunning views of the city.
9. Hangzhou : Located in eastern China, Hangzhou is a city known for its natural beauty and cultural attractions. Visit the West Lake for a peaceful retreat, explore the Lingyin Temple for a glimpse into China's Buddhist culture, and try the famous Longjing tea at a local teahouse.
10. Chengdu : Located in southwestern China, Chengdu is a city known for its spicy cuisine and adorable pandas. Visit the Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding for a chance to see these cute creatures up close, explore the Jinli Ancient Street for traditional snacks and souvenirs, and try the famous hotpot at a local restaurant.
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Tours And Activities In Taiwan
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Food & Drinks To Try In Taiwan
1. Bubble tea: Taiwan is famous for its bubble tea, also known as pearl milk tea or boba tea. This refreshing drink is made with a base of tea, milk, and sweetener, and is typically served with chewy tapioca pearls. It comes in various flavors such as taro, matcha, and fruit flavors, and is a must-try when visiting Taiwan.
2. Stinky tofu: Stinky tofu is a popular street food in Taiwan. Despite its strong odor, it is loved by locals and visitors alike. This fermented tofu is deep-fried and served with a variety of condiments such as pickled cabbage and chili sauce. It has a unique flavor and texture that is definitely worth trying for adventurous eaters.
3. Beef noodle soup: Taiwan's beef noodle soup is a hearty and flavorful dish that is a staple in Taiwanese cuisine. The soup is made with tender beef, aromatic spices, and chewy noodles. It is often garnished with green onions and pickled vegetables, adding a tangy and refreshing element to the dish. This comforting bowl of soup is a must-try for noodle lovers.
4. Gua bao: Gua bao, also known as Taiwanese hamburger or pork belly bun, is a popular street food in Taiwan. It consists of a fluffy steamed bun filled with braised pork belly, pickled mustard greens, and crushed peanuts. The combination of tender pork belly, tangy pickles, and crunchy peanuts creates a delicious and satisfying snack.
5. Oyster omelette: Oyster omelette is a classic Taiwanese dish that is often found in night markets. It is made by frying a mixture of eggs, oysters, and starch to create a crispy and savory pancake. It is then topped with a tangy and slightly spicy sauce. The combination of the crispy pancake and juicy oysters makes for a delightful and flavorful dish.
6. Pineapple cake: Pineapple cake is a popular Taiwanese dessert that is often given as a gift or enjoyed with a cup of tea. It is a buttery pastry filled with sweet and tangy pineapple jam. The pastry is soft and crumbly, while the pineapple filling is sticky and aromatic. It is a delicious treat that showcases the tropical flavors of Taiwan.
7. Taiwanese hot pot: Taiwanese hot pot is a communal dining experience that is popular among locals. It involves cooking a variety of ingredients such as thinly sliced meat, seafood, vegetables, and tofu in a flavorful broth at the table. The cooked ingredients are then dipped in various sauces for added flavor. It is a fun and interactive way to enjoy a meal with friends and family.
8. Taiwanese sausage: Taiwanese sausage, also known as "xiang chang," is a popular street food in Taiwan. It is made from minced pork and various seasonings, giving it a sweet and savory flavor. The sausage is often grilled or pan-fried and served on a stick. It is a delicious and convenient snack that can be enjoyed on the go.
9. Mango shaved ice: Taiwan is known for its sweet and juicy mangoes, and one of the best ways to enjoy them is in the form of shaved ice. Mango shaved ice is a popular dessert in Taiwan, especially during the hot summer months. It consists of finely shaved ice topped with fresh mango slices, mango syrup, and sometimes condensed milk. It is a refreshing and indulgent treat that will satisfy any sweet tooth.
10. Oolong tea: Taiwan is renowned for its high-quality oolong tea. Oolong tea is a partially fermented tea that has a rich and complex flavor profile. It can range from floral and fruity to toasty and earthy, depending on the variety. Drinking oolong tea is a cultural experience in Taiwan, and there are many tea houses and shops where you can sample different types of oolong tea.
Best Time To Visit Taiwan
The best time to visit Taiwan, China is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons. During these times, the weather is mild and comfortable, with lower humidity and pleasant temperatures. Spring is known for its beautiful cherry blossoms and colorful festivals, while fall offers stunning foliage and clear skies. It is advisable to avoid visiting during the summer months (June to August) due to high temperatures, heavy rainfall, and the possibility of typhoons. Winter (December to February) can be chilly in some parts of Taiwan, but it is still a good time to visit if you enjoy festive celebrations such as Chinese New Year.
Flight Calendar For Taiwan
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Transportation To Taiwan
There are several transportation options to travel from Taiwan to China:
1. Flight: The most convenient and fastest way to travel between Taiwan and China is by air. There are numerous flights operating between major cities in Taiwan, such as Taipei, and various cities in China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, and more. The flight duration can vary depending on the specific route and airline chosen.
2. Ferry: It is also possible to travel by ferry between Taiwan and China. There are ferry services available from ports in Taiwan, such as Keelung or Kaohsiung, to ports in China, such as Xiamen or Shanghai. The duration of the ferry journey can range from a few hours to overnight, depending on the distance and the specific ferry service.
3. Train: Although there is no direct train connection between Taiwan and China, it is possible to take a train from Taiwan to the city of Xiamen in China. From Xiamen, travelers can then continue their journey to other cities in China by train. This option requires taking a ferry from Taiwan to Xiamen first and then transferring to the train.
4. Bus: There are also long-distance bus services available between Taiwan and China. These buses typically involve taking a ferry from Taiwan to a port in China and then continuing the journey by bus. The duration of the bus journey can vary depending on the distance and the specific bus service chosen.
It is important to note that the availability and frequency of transportation options may vary, and it is advisable to check with relevant transportation providers for the most up-to-date information and schedules. Additionally, it is recommended to check the visa requirements and entry restrictions for traveling between Taiwan and China, as they may vary depending on the traveler's nationality and the purpose of the visit.