Taiwan is a treasure trove of culture, food, and stunning scenery; planning a tour of Taiwan can be an enriching experience. Whether you’re drawn to Taipei’s vibrant city life or Alishan’s tranquil tea fields, there’s something for everyone.
But how do you make your adventure truly unforgettable? Having explored Taiwan, from its bustling night markets to its hidden mountain villages, I’m excited to share my top seven tips for planning a fantastic tour in Taiwan. Let’s dive in!
- Choose the Right Season for Your Visit
Taiwan has a subtropical climate, which means seasons can make a big difference in your experience. Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are ideal seasons for a tour in Taiwan. During these months, the weather is pleasant, temperatures are moderate, and you can avoid the heavy rainfall that sometimes hits in summer.
I once visited Taroko Gorge in mid-May, and it was incredible. The weather was warm but not overwhelming, and the trails were vibrant with fresh greenery. Plus, I avoided the high tourist traffic of summer, which made the whole experience much more serene. Avoid typhoon season (typically from July to September), as you might find many attractions closed for safety reasons.
- Explore Taiwan’s Diverse Transport Options
Taiwan has an efficient and affordable transportation system, making it easy to get around. The High-Speed Rail (HSR) is the fastest way to travel between major cities along the West Coast, while regular trains offer a scenic, leisurely experience—perfect for when you’re not in a rush.
The public bus system is excellent for accessing more remote areas, but one tip I’ve learned is to use the extensive scooter rental services in Taiwan. Scootering along the East Coast Highway near Taitung was one of the most liberating experiences I’ve had while on a tour of Taiwan. You can enjoy the coastal views at your own pace, which is perfect for photo stops or just taking it all in.
- Dive Into the Local Night Market Scene
You can’t plan a tour in Taiwan without including a visit to the night markets. These vibrant markets are filled with tantalizing smells and offer a peek into Taiwanese culture through its street food. Shilin Night Market in Taipei is the largest, but I’ve found that smaller markets, like the Luodong Night Market in Yilan, offer a more authentic experience. I still remember the taste of the roasted corn covered in Taiwanese spices—a local favorite I couldn’t get enough of!
Some must-try night market delicacies include stinky tofu (it tastes better than it smells!), oyster omelets, and bubble tea. It’s best to arrive hungry, grab small portions, and share—that way, you taste as much as possible.
- Get Off the Beaten Path
While popular spots like Taipei 101, Sun Moon Lake, and Jiufen are must-sees, visit lesser-known gems during your tour of Taiwan. Taiwan’s beauty lies in its rich diversity, and plenty of lesser-visited attractions are worth exploring.
For instance, consider visiting the village of Neiwan, a small mountain town with historic streets and beautiful river views. I once ended up there after a local in Hsinchu suggested it over a cup of oolong tea. Walking through the old railway station and sampling traditional Hakka snacks made me feel like I’d returned in time.
The Alishan Forest Railway is another hidden gem. It’s a scenic mountain train journey that passes through lush forests and high-altitude tea fields, providing one of the most charming experiences you could wish for in Taiwan.
- Learn Some Basic Mandarin Phrases
While you can generally get by in Taipei and other large cities without knowing Mandarin, having a few basic phrases can enrich your tour of Taiwan, especially in rural areas. Taiwanese people are warm and hospitable, and attempting even a few words in Mandarin or Taiwanese Hokkien can open doors to unique experiences.
I’ve found that saying a simple “ni hao” (你好, hello) or “xie xie” (謝謝, thank you) goes a long way. I still remember the smile of a street vendor in Kaohsiung when I greeted her in Mandarin before buying some mochi. She gave me extra pieces to try—a gesture I wouldn’t have received without a bit of language effort!
- Embrace Taiwan’s Natural Beauty
Taiwan is known for its dramatic landscapes, from coastal cliffs to forested mountains. One of the most memorable parts of my journey was hiking the Zhuilu Old Trail in Taroko National Park. The trail follows a cliff edge that provides spectacular views of the Taroko Gorge below—it’s not for the faint of heart, but if you’re up for it, the reward is breathtaking.
If you’re not into heights, there are plenty of gentler ways to experience Taiwan’s natural beauty. Head to Yangmingshan National Park, which is just a short drive from Taipei. It’s perfect for a day hike or a relaxing soak in a hot spring. Taiwan’s hot spring culture is unique and ideal for unwinding after a long day of exploration.
- Taste Taiwan’s Diverse Food Culture
Food is a highlight of any tour in Taiwan. Beyond the night markets are incredible restaurants and street vendors to explore. Taiwanese cuisine is heavily influenced by Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous flavors, making it incredibly diverse.
For breakfast, try a local Taiwanese breakfast shop. My favorite meal is a traditional “shaobing youtiao” (烤餅油條), which is a sesame flatbread filled with crispy fried dough, often accompanied by warm soy milk. One morning, I stumbled upon a tiny breakfast shop in Tainan where the owner’s mother had been making shaobing youtiao for over 40 years—and it showed. It was one of the best I’ve ever had.
Don’t miss out on Taiwan’s famous beef noodle soup or traditional “biandang” (便當), the Taiwanese version of a bento box commonly found at railway stations. The combination of flavors, often including braised pork, pickled vegetables, and boiled egg, will leave you craving more.
Bonus Tip: Book With a Local Tour Specialist
If you’re looking for a more structured way to see the highlights while also getting a more profound, local perspective, consider booking your tour of Taiwan through a local expert. Companies like Life of Taiwan specialize in tailoring experiences that cover the best of what Taiwan offers—bustling cities or quiet countryside retreats.
Make Your Taiwan Adventure Memorable With Life of Taiwan
If you’re planning a tour in Taiwan, partnering with a local specialist can take your journey from ordinary to extraordinary. Life of Taiwan offers a range of customized tour packages that cater to your preferences, whether you’re interested in cultural heritage, food adventures, or outdoor exploration. Their expertise and passion for Taiwan ensure you’ll experience the island uniquely and personally. Don’t just visit Taiwan—immerse yourself in it.
