Travel to Taiwan

Taiwan, a captivating island nation off the coast of mainland China, offers a remarkable blend of ultra-modern cities and serene natural landscapes. It's a place where neon-lit metropolises like Taipei hum with energy, yet just a short train ride away, you can find mist-shrouded mountains, tranquil hot springs, and a coastline dotted with picturesque fishing villages. The pace of travel here is adaptable; you can immerse yourself in the urban buzz of a single city or embark on a scenic road trip to discover its diverse regions. Taiwan offers exceptional value, providing a high quality of experience – from culinary delights to efficient transport – at very reasonable prices, making it an accessible yet exotic destination.

Cities to explore in Taiwan

Pively covers multiple cities in Taiwan. Click a card for the full guide — flights, hotels, budget and multi-destination itineraries.

Which city to pick

For first-time visitors, **Taipei** is an unmissable starting point, offering a whirlwind of night markets, temples, modern architecture, and excellent museums like the National Palace Museum. If your focus is on history and gastronomy, the ancient capital of Tainan (not currently covered by Pively) is unparalleled. For nature enthusiasts, Hualien (not covered by Pively) is the gateway to the breathtaking Taroko Gorge. If you prefer a more laid-back urban setting with a burgeoning arts scene, Taichung (not covered by Pively) is a great choice. However, for the quintessential Taiwan experience combining urban exploration, culinary adventure, and convenient access to surrounding nature, Taipei remains the top recommendation for most travelers.

Regions to know

Northern Taiwan

Dominated by the vibrant capital, Taipei, this region is the island's political and economic heart. Expect a fast-paced urban experience alongside accessible natural escapes like Yangmingshan National Park for hot springs and hiking. The northern coast offers charming towns and dramatic geological formations. Recommended duration: 3-5 days if based in Taipei, longer for day trips.

Eastern Taiwan

Characterized by its dramatic coastline and the towering Central Mountain Range, Eastern Taiwan is a haven for nature lovers. Think Taroko Gorge's marble cliffs, lush valleys, and the pristine beaches near Taitung. It’s slower-paced and ideal for scenic drives or cycling. Recommended duration: 4-7 days for exploring the coast and national parks.

Central Taiwan

Home to Taiwan's highest peaks, this region boasts stunning alpine scenery, tea plantations around Alishan, and the beautiful Sun Moon Lake. It’s perfect for hiking, enjoying cooler mountain air, and experiencing rural life. The city of Taichung offers a more relaxed urban vibe compared to Taipei. Recommended duration: 3-5 days for key highlights.

Southern Taiwan

The gateway to tropical vibes, Southern Taiwan features warm weather, vibrant cities like Kaohsiung with its artistic flair and harbor, and historical sites such as Tainan, the island's oldest city. Kenting National Park offers beaches and water sports. Recommended duration: 4-6 days for a mix of city and coast.

Suggested itineraries

7j — Taipei & Northern Explorer

Spend 4 days in Taipei exploring its markets, museums, and distinct neighborhoods. Dedicate 3 days to exploring northern Taiwan: a day trip to Jiufen (historic mining town) and Shifen (for sky lanterns), followed by a day exploring the hot springs and volcanic landscapes of Yangmingshan National Park. Travel between locations primarily via Taipei's efficient MRT and local buses/trains.

10j — Island Highlights: North to East

Begin with 4 days in Taipei. Take the High-Speed Rail (HSR) south to Taichung (2 days, explore Rainbow Village and Gaomei Wetlands). Then, travel east via train to Hualien (3 days) to experience the stunning Taroko Gorge. Return to Taipei via the scenic eastern coastal railway. This route balances city life with natural wonders.

14j — Cross-Island Adventure

Start with 5 days in Taipei. Take the HSR to Tainan (3 days) for historical immersion and food. Travel inland to Alishan (2 days) via bus/train for tea plantations and mountain scenery. Continue to the east coast, exploring Taroko Gorge from Hualien (3 days). Conclude by returning to Taipei via the eastern railway (1 day). This itinerary covers diverse landscapes and cultural experiences.

Best time to go

The shoulder seasons, spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November), offer the most pleasant weather across Taiwan. Spring brings blooming flowers and milder temperatures, ideal for exploring both cities and mountains. Autumn provides comfortable warmth and lower humidity, perfect for hiking and enjoying the outdoors. Summer (June-August) is hot, humid, and prone to typhoons, especially in the north and east. Winter (December-February) is cool and damp in the north, while the south remains mild. Major holidays like Chinese New Year (late Jan/Feb) and Mid-Autumn Festival (Sept/Oct) are vibrant but see crowded conditions and higher prices. The Taipei Lantern Festival (usually Feb) is a spectacular event.

Practical tips

Visa: Most EU, US, and UK passport holders can enter Taiwan visa-free for 90 days. Other nationalities should verify requirements with their local Taiwanese embassy or representative office well in advance.
Currency: The New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). Currently, 1 EUR is roughly 35 TWD. Credit cards are widely accepted in larger establishments, but cash is essential for night markets, smaller eateries, and local transport. ATMs are plentiful.
Language: Mandarin Chinese is the official language. English proficiency varies; it's most common in tourist areas and among younger people in Taipei. Download a translation app and learn basic phrases like 'Xie xie' (thank you).
Transport: Taiwan boasts an excellent public transport system. The High-Speed Rail (HSR) efficiently connects major cities along the west coast. Regular trains (TRA) cover the rest of the island. Buses are extensive for intercity and local travel. Taipei has a world-class MRT system. Renting a car is possible but often unnecessary and challenging in cities due to parking.
SIM / eSIM: Purchasing a local SIM card or eSIM upon arrival is recommended for data. Major providers include Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and Far EasTone. Expect to pay around $15-30 USD for 10-20GB of data for a week or two.

Culture & etiquette

Tipping is not customary in Taiwan; service charges are often included in bills. When dining, wait for elders to start eating and avoid sticking chopsticks upright in rice bowls. It's polite to accept offered tea. Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially in religious sites. Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered) when visiting temples or churches. Avoid loud behavior in public spaces and on transport. Public displays of affection are generally understated.

Daily budget

Taiwan offers great value. A frugal traveler could manage on $45-60 USD per day, staying in hostels ($20-30/night), eating street food and local eateries ($15-20/day), and using public transport. A standard mid-range budget would be $80-120 USD per day, allowing for comfortable 3-star hotels ($50-70/night), a mix of local and nicer restaurants ($30-40/day), and entry fees. A comfort budget of $150+ USD per day would include 4-star hotels, fine dining, private tours, and more shopping.