One Island, infinite possibilities, uncover Taiwan like never before!
Lanterns glowing in the alleys of Jiufen. Bubble tea in hand as you weave through neon-lit night markets. Towering skyscrapers, misty lakes, coastal bike trails, and centuries-old temples—Taiwan is a full-sensory experience packed into one accessible island. This detailed Taiwan trip itinerary for 5 days breaks down the top three-cities—Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung, so you can make the most out of every stop. Whether you’re planning a short trip or wondering where to go in Taiwan for first timers, this guide will help you explore the best Taiwan tourist spots along the way.
Where to Stay in Taiwan’s Top Cities
Taipei: What to Do in Taipei for First-Time Visitors
Iconic Landmarks & Culture
Nguồn ảnh: english.gov.taipei
Start your journey in Taipei, the buzzing capital. Ride the high-speed elevator to the top of Taipei 101, then wander into Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, where if you’re lucky enough you can catch the ceremonial guard change—it’s truly moving!
For old-world charm, stroll Dihua Street, a preserved historical lane filled with tea shops and herbal medicine stores. A Klook traveler says “It felt like I’d walk into a movie set. The history here speaks through the walls.” These iconic sports are staples in any Taiwan trip itinerary for 5 days.
Where to Eat in Taipei at Night
No trip here is complete without diving into street food. Visit Shilin Night Market or Raohe Street Night Market for Taiwanese sausage, stinky tofu, and grilled mochi. Travelers recommend the pepper pork buns at Raohe—they’re baked in a traditional tandoor-stye oven right before your eyes. If food is your priority, add this to your Taiwan trip itinerary for 5 days!
Taichung: Best Day Tours and Places to Visit in Taichung
Color, Culture, and Instagram Stops
Rainbow Village (Source: Taichung Tourism)
Taichung shines with creativity. Begin at Rainbow Village, where a former soldier transformed his home into a vibrant art mural project. According to Klook reviews, the best time to visit is early morning to avoid crowds. Rainbow Village is not just a mural marvel, it’s a Taiwan tourist spot that blends military history with folk art.
Next, explore the ultra-modern National Taichung Theater and take a slow walk along Calligraphy Greenway, where you can find a quaint cafe serving pineapple cakes and oolong tea.
If you’re wondering where to go in Taiwan for first timers, Taichung should be high on the list for its playful art and accessible city layout.
How to Plan a Day Trip to Sun Moon Lake from Taichung
Nguồn ảnh: Canva
Located just 90 minutes away, Sun Moon Lake is a peaceful oasis surrounded by hills and temples. Travelers often ride a bike to the lakeside trail and stop at Wenwu Temple, a towering structure with views you’ll want to photograph from every angle. Include this in your Taiwan trip itinerary for 5 days if you’re chasing serenity and nature.
For those asking where to go in Taiwan for first timers, Sun Moon Lake offers a blend of nature and cultural sites that feels refreshing from the city.
Kaohsiung: Where to go in Kaohsiung for Scenic and Cultural Highlights
Spiritual and Waterfront Calm
Down south, Kaohsiung offers a slower rhythm. Visit the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas at Lotus Pond—locals believe entering through the dragon’s mouth and exiting the tiger’s reverses bad fortune.
Nearby is Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, a sprawling complex that gives most travelers the chills. The quiet, spacious courtyards here make it a peaceful spiritual retreat.
For first-time travelers still figuring out where to go in Taiwan for first timers, Kaohsiung’s spiritual calm and scenic waterfronts offer a distinct contrast to Taipei’s buzz.
What to do in Kaohsiung for a Sunset Adventure
Explore Pier-2 Art Center, where industrial warehouses now house murals, galleries, and food trucks. Seize the chance to stumble upon a pop-up vinyl shop and stay there for a live band. Later, take the ferry to Cijin Island to enjoy Cijin Seaside Park and catch golden hour over seafood platters. This coastal experience adds a breezy end to your well-balanced Taiwan itinerary.
If you’re mapping out where to go in Taiwan for first timer’s and want something offbeat, Kaohsiung’s art scene and beachside charm are worth it.
Sample 5-7 Day Taiwan Itinerary: What to Do and Where to Go
📍Day 1-2: Taipei
- Visit Taipei 101 and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
- Explore Dadaocheng and Dihua Street
- Dinner at Shilin or Raohe Night Market
- Optional: Beitou Hot Springs or hike Elephant Mountain
📍Day 3: Taichung
- Morning at Rainbow Village
- Dessert at Miyahara
- Walk along Calligraphy Greenway
- Night Food trip at Fengjia Night Market
📍 Day 4: Sun Moon Lake (from Taichung)
- Bike around the lake
- Take a scenic boat tour
- Visit Wenwu Temple and enjoy lakeside cafes
📍Day 5-6: Kaohsiung
- Visit Lotus Pond and Dragon & Tiger Pagodas
- Explore Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum
- Stroll through Pier-2 Art Center
- Ferry to Cijin Island for sunset and seafood
📍Day 7: Back to Taipei or Jiufen Day Trip
- Jiufen Old Street, lantern releases in Shifen
- Option to rest or shop in Taipei
This flexible plan is perfect for anyone wondering where to go in Taiwan for first timers and how to make the most of a 5-day or a week-long trip.
When in Taiwan, Plan Less and Wander More!
Every corner of Taiwan offers something unexpected, whether it’s a hidden alley tea shop or a hilltop shrine with panoramic views. The best part of any Taiwan itinerary is leaving space for spontaneity.
If you’re not sure where to go in Taiwan for first timers, this 5-7 day route across Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung gives a balanced mix of city vibes, cultural sites, and natural escapes.
Nguồn ảnh: eng.taiwan.net.tw
So don’t over-plan, some of the best moments happen unexpectedly. Each Taiwan tourist spot on this 5-7 day route brings you closer to the culture, flavors, and soul of the island. Whichever itinerary speaks to your dream trip, lean into it and let your adventure unfold!
