Tai-Wander no more! Here’s exactly where to go in Taiwan and how to start your dream itinerary
If you’ve been wondering where to go in Taiwan for your next trip, you’re in the right place. Taiwan is a favorite destination for a reason, it’s so close to the Philippines, visa-free for Filipinos (up to 14 days as of 2025), and filled with unique experiences. From bustling night markets and temples to jaw-dropping mountains and colorful lantern festivals, it’s a country that truly has it all.
So if you’re planning a short getaway or building a longer Taiwan itinerary, here are the must-visit places you can’t miss.
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Where to Go in Taiwan for City Life: Taipei
My Taiwan journey began in Taipei, and right away I knew it was a city worth lingering in. Towering above it all is Taipei 101, once the tallest building in the world, where I went up to the observatory deck and saw sweeping views of the city framed by mountains. For history and culture, the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall impressed me with its white walls, blue roofs, and the grand ceremonial changing of the guards.
But for me, Taipei’s magic truly came alive after dark. I still remember squeezing through the lively lanes of Raohe Night Market with the smell of stinky tofu and pepper buns fresh from the day oven, and of course bubble milk tea to go. When I wanted something trendier, I headed to the youthful district of Ximending, where the shopping, cafes, and street performances felt like Taiwan’s own version of Harajuku.
Where to Go in Taiwan for Nostalgia: Jiufen and Shiufen
Just a short train ride from Taipei lies Jiufen, a hillside town with winding alleys that seem frozen in time. Originally a gold mining settlement, Jiufen has become famous for its lantern-lit streets, teahouses with misty mountain views, and alleys filled with snacks and souvenirs. Walking down Old Jiufen Street, I was hit with the sweet smell of roasted sweet potatoes and peanut ice cream rolls. My favorite treat was the chewy taro balls, perfect while overlooking the misty hills. Many say Jiufen inspired the setting of Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away, and once I was there, I understood why.
Nearby is Shifen, home to the stunning Shifen Waterfall, often called Taiwan’s Little Niagara. It's a cascading curtain of water that looks especially magical after the rain. But the true highlight for me was the Shifen Old Street, where I wrote my wish on a colorful sky lantern and watched it float into the night sky. It was a tradition that felt both personal and unforgettable.
Where to Go in Taiwan for Art and Nature: Taichung
Next stop is Taichung, Taiwan’s creative capital where modern art, vibrant culture, and natural beauty come together. One of my favorite spots was the Rainbow Village, it was once a quiet neighborhood transformed into an open-air art gallery. You’ll find yourself standing there, surrounded by bright murals painted on every wall, it feels like stepping inside a storybook.
Another must-see was the National Taichung Theater, an architectural marvel with curved, flowing walls that made me feel like I’d stepped inside a sculpture. For Instagram-worthy moments, I couldn’t resist taking photos at Zhongshe Flower Market, where fields of tulips, lavender, and sunflowers stretched endlessly with windmills and gazebos scattered throughout. As the sun set, I headed to the Gaomei Wetlands, where the reflection of wind turbines against the glowing horizon created one of the most breathtaking scenes of my trip.
Where to go in Taiwan for Coastal Views: Kaohsiung
Heading further south brought me to Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s laid-back port city with a surprising blend of tradition and modern energy. I started at the Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, where the enormous 108-meter golden Buddha towered over peaceful courtyards. Standing there was a moment of calm I didn’t expect from such a big city.
For something lighter, I loved strolling through the Pier-2 Art Center, a collection of old warehouses turned into colorful art spaces, cafés, and galleries. Food lovers like me can’t skip the Liuhe Night Market, to this day I still think about the fresh grilled squid and oyster omelets I tried. And lastly, for a breezy escape, I took a short ferry to Cijin Island, where biking along the coast with the sea breeze in my face turned out to be one of my favorite Taiwan memories.
Where to Go in Taiwan for Adventure: Hualien and Taroko Gorge
If your heart is set on natural wonders, Hualien and Taroko Gorge National Park will leave you speechless. For me, it was the crown jewel of my Taiwan itinerary. Hiking the Shakadang Trail, I was mesmerized by turquoise waters so clear I could see the stones beneath. Crossing suspension bridges with marble cliffs towering on both sides felt surreal like being inside a postcard.
The gorge is dotted with shrines and suspension bridges that add to its mystical charm. At the Eternal Spring Shrine, I stood in awe as a waterfall cascaded beneath the small temple perched on a cliff. After a day of exploring, I ended at Qixingtan Beach, where watching the sun sink between the mountains and the sea was the quiet finish I didn’t know I needed.
BONUS: Seasonal Taiwan Experiences
Photo credit: @oliviajuanda
If you want to make your Taiwan itinerary extra special, timing your trip right makes all the difference. I was lucky enough to visit in spring, and seeing cherry blossoms in Yangmingshan was truly memorable:
- Spring (Mar-Apr): Cherry blossoms in Yangmingshan and Alishan
- Summer (Jun-Sep) - Beach days in Kenting + Dragon Boat Festival
- Autumn (Oct-Nov) - Red and Gold foliage in Alishan and Yangmingshan
- Winter (Dec-Feb) - Hot spring getaways in Beitou + Lantern festivals
All Tracks Lead Here
Now you know exactly where to go in Taiwan, the next step is simple: map out your Taiwan itinerary and make it happen! Every stop will leave you with experiences that will surely stay long after the trip ends. Taiwan has a way of turning even ordinary days into an adventure, and yours is just waiting to be written. See you in Taiwan!
