When I decided to visit Taiwan, a lot of people asked me – why Taiwan? Honestly, I picked it because I’ve already checked off most other countries on my Southeast Asia list, and that region is hands down my favourite part of the world to explore. I wanted to go back, and Taiwan – a small island nation with a big reputation – felt like the perfect place to experience in one week.
After spending that week there, I realised there was so much more I would’ve loved to do if I’d had more time (this happens to me with almost every country LOL – I’m never satisfied with the number of days I have). Taiwan may look small on the map, but trust me, it packs in a lot.
Let me start with the first thing I absolutely fell in love with: in Taiwan, food is culture. Yes, you could say the same about Thailand, Malaysia, or Vietnam, but the sheer variety of food in Taiwan – fresh, fried, steamed, grilled, you name it – across vegetarian, seafood, and meat options, felt totally unique. Every other outlet is a restaurant, the street food is incredible, and the night markets sell snacks I’d never seen before (I came back home with a suitcase full of them). So, if you’re a foodie, this alone could be your #1 reason to visit Taiwan.
But food isn’t the only highlight. Taiwan also has fantastic infrastructure, which means whether you choose public transport (trains, buses) or private options (taxis or self-drive), you’ll be well connected and able to explore at your own pace. The connectivity is excellent, the roads are smooth, and people are disciplined and organized – which feels like a bonus. There are a few language challenges — most Taiwanese don’t speak much English, but thank God for Google Translate! People are genuinely friendly and happy to help, so don’t hesitate to use translation apps, walk up to them, and ask whatever you need. You’ll be surprised how far a smile, a translated sentence, and a bit of patience can get you. Don’t forget to thank them with a “Xièxiè” pronounced as sheh sheh, your golden word for the trip 
Finding your way around in Taiwan
If you’re staying within Taipei, I highly recommend using public transportation to avoid traffic. For places like Hualien or Jiufen, however, self-drive gives you a lot more flexibility and saves time. I usually prefer renting a car, but on this trip, we were travelling with our senior parents, so we kept the itinerary light and easy. We ended up using a mix of public transport, taxis, and organized tours.
Taxis are surprisingly affordable in Taiwan, so even if you don’t want to drive, it’s still very convenient. Uber works great in Taipei (we didn’t find Uber in Hualien though). With one week in Taiwan, you have enough time to explore Taipei and venture out – whether it’s to Hualien, Taichung, Alishan, or Sun Moon Lake. Each offers something unique depending on what you’re into. We chose Hualien because I’m a sucker for coastal views and mountains – and it did not disappoint.
Weather in Taiwan in December
I loved the weather in Taiwan in December. Taipei was pleasantly warm, with daytime temperatures around 25–26°C and cooler evenings of about 18–19°C. Although December falls within the short dry season, Taipei can still see occasional light showers, so it’s best to be prepared with waterproof clothing.
Hualien, despite being coastal, was noticeably colder and rainier in December, which was a bit of a pity, as the dramatic ocean views from its cliffs truly shine on sunny days, when blue skies bring out the striking turquoise tones of the water.
When you arrive in Taipei
The first (and second) thing I do when I land in a new country is get a local SIM card and exchange some currency. It just makes everything easier from the get-go. Here’s what I recommend doing when you arrive at Taipei Airport:
- Pick up a SIM from Chunghwa Telecom:
Their network coverage is excellent, they offer both physical SIMs and e-SIMs, and the packages are reasonably priced. Connectivity across Taiwan was consistently reliable, even outside the main cities. - Currency exchange:
While exchange rates in the city are slightly better than at the airport, the difference in Taipei isn’t significant. Credit cards are widely accepted across Taiwan, so you don’t need to carry a lot of cash. That said, some street food stalls and night market vendors only accept cash, so it’s always a good idea to have some on hand—especially in a country that feels very safe, with minimal concerns around pickpocketing or petty crime. - EZ Card:
This is Taiwan’s rechargeable public transport card and works across most major cities, including Taipei and Hualien. You can buy it at convenience stores, but I recommend getting it at the airport itself—it allows you to hop straight onto your first train from the airport to the city (or your hotel) without any hassle.
That said, if you’re not a fan of public transport and prefer the convenience of taxis or ride-hailing apps, you can skip the EZ Card altogether and rely on those instead.
Do all apps work in Taiwan
Many of you may already know that apps like WhatsApp, Gmail, Instagram, and Google services don’t work in China without a VPN. Because of this, it’s completely valid (and very common!) to wonder whether the same restrictions apply in Taiwan.
The short answer: don’t worry at all — all apps work perfectly fine in Taiwan.
You’ll have full access to WhatsApp, Gmail, Google Maps, Instagram, Facebook, YouTube, and everything else you’re used to using while travelling. There’s no need for a VPN, and you can stay connected, navigate easily, and post in real time without any restrictions.
Christmas Markets in Taipei
We visited Taiwan in December, so I was naturally curious to see whether we’d come across any Christmas markets. To my surprise, I did find a few in Taipei.
While the dates below are specific to 2025 and will vary slightly from year to year, they reflect the period during which these markets are typically open. As always, I recommend checking the latest dates and timings closer to your travel period.
- German Christmas Market in Corridor Plaza, Taipei Expo Park (28-30 Nov)
Location: Corridor Plaza, Taipei Expo Park (MRT Yuanshan Station)
- Christmasland in New Taipei City (14 Nov – 28 Dec)
Location: Banqiao District (Civic Plaza, Banqiao Station Square, Central Park, Fuzhong Plaza)
- Xinzhongshan Christmas Market (weekends only, 1 – 31 Dec)
Location: Zhongshan Linear Park (between Zhongshan & Shuanglian MRT stations)
Exploring Taiwan in a week – Taipei
Day 1 & 2: Taipei
Taipei city itself requires 2 days, if not more. The city packs a punch – it’s modern yet deeply traditional. Think sleek skyscrapers like Taipei 101 standing proudly next to centuries-old temples, neon-lit streets merging into leafy neighborhoods, and night markets that feel like a daily festival. What I loved most is how livable the city feels — safe, clean, insanely well-connected, and full of character. Whether you’re hopping between cozy cafés, exploring vibrant shopping districts, or wandering through its charming alleyways, Taipei makes it incredibly easy to fall into its rhythm. It’s a city that blends culture, convenience and charm effortlessly.
Here are some places you can explore in Taipei, in 2 days:
Lungshan Temple
This is a fantastic temple, both in terms of its architecture as well as how alive it feels. Locals come here throughout the day to pray, light incense, and seek guidance, and just standing quietly and observing it all is an experience.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
This unique white-against-the-blue-skies monument is very awe-inspiring. The open square, traditional architecture, and the changing of the guards make it worth a stop even if you don’t usually gravitate towards monuments (like me).
Ximending walking street
Ximending is loud, colourful, and chaotic in the best way possible. It’s the kind of place you come to for street food, people-watching, and soaking in Taipei’s younger, trendier side — especially in the evening. It was one of my favourite places to buy lots of snacks & foods to take back home!
Noticeably less touristy & calmer than Lungshan but also less ‘wow’ is the Xingtian Temple. It’s simple, understated, and very local — a nice contrast if you want to see a quieter, more reflective side of the city.
Dadaocheng Wharf Plaza
This ended up being one of my favourite spots to slow down in Taipei. We came here around sunset, walked along the river, grabbed snacks, and just enjoyed watching the city unwind for the evening.
Taipei 101
You really can’t miss Taipei 101 — it dominates the skyline. Whether you go up to the observation deck or just admire it from nearby viewpoints, it’s one of those landmarks that instantly makes Taipei feel iconic. There’s a mall right under the building (and that’s where the original Din Tai Fung is located) which is quite nice to shop, as well as experience a variety of food in the food court.
Xiangshan (Elephant Mountain)
Elephant Mountain is a short but sweaty climb, but the view at the top makes it completely worth it. Be prepared, however, to walk 1080 steps to get to the viewing spot. Watching the city spread out below, with Taipei 101 right in front of you, is one of the best views you’ll get in the city. The sunset from here is spectacular, and you can stay to enjoy the night views of the city too!
Tonghua/Lingjiang Night Market
This night market felt more local and less overwhelming than some of the bigger ones. We came here mostly to eat — and left very full — making it a great place to try classic Taiwanese street food without battling huge crowds.
Recommended hotel for overnight stay in Taipei: Hotel Relax III or K Hotel Taipei Dunnan
Day 3: Yangmingshan National Park & Beitou Hot Springs
This makes for an excellent day trip from Taipei, combining nature, scenic walks, and a touch of relaxation. Start your day exploring Yangmingshan National Park, where you can wander through lush trails, volcanic landscapes, and vibrant flower gardens.
Once you arrive at the Yangmingshan entrance, you can board the shuttle bus 108 (runs every 12-15 min), that loops all major sights. There’s a lot to do and see, so if you’re slightly pressed on time and want to experience the highlights, head to Qingtiangang Grassland for a gentle walk, excellent views, and fantastic photo ops.
Enjoy a nice lunch at Cama Coffee Roasters in Yangmingshan on your way back (taking the 108 shuttle again to return). If you wish to relax a little, enjoy a stroll next to a pond in a park, visit Qianshan Park also not too far from the Yangminshan stop. After soaking in the fresh air and greenery, head to Beitou, a charming district famous for its hot springs. Whether you relax in a public bathhouse or a private spa, it’s the perfect way to unwind after a morning of hiking and exploring. If you have a bit of time, you can visit the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area’s history.
In Beitou, I highly recommend visiting two spots:
- Beitou Thermal Valley: Don’t miss the Beitou Thermal Valley, where you can see steaming emerald-green waters and feel the mist rising from the natural hot springs — it’s an otherworldly sight and a great photo stop. You can walk on a wooden platform along the hot springs or get some great views from above.
- Visit a public or private hot spring: Most private hot spring baths are gender-specific so if you’re a couple or with family of mixed genders, you’ll want to find a public mixed hot spring. We initially planned to visit the famous Beitou Public Hot Spring, but it was unfortunately closed that day. Instead, we popped into a nearby hotel hot spring (Spring City Resort), which turned out to be a great alternative — still relaxing, with the warm mineral-rich water and a quieter, more private vibe than the public bathhouses. Sometimes a little change of plan leads to a surprisingly pleasant experience!
At the end of the evening, head back to Taipei.
Day 4: Yehliu, Shifen & Jiufen
This is another fantastic day trip from Taipei where you can soak in Taiwan’s coastal charm, quirky towns, and stunning scenery all in one go. I’d highly recommend doing it with a rented car, as it gives you maximum flexibility to stop wherever you like and explore at your own pace. We went on an organized group tour through a travel company, which was still enjoyable, but I found myself missing the freedom that a private car or tour would have offered.
Start your day at Yehliu Geopark, where nature has carved some of the most unusual rock formations you’ll ever see — the Queen’s Head and other shapes make for fun photo opportunities and a short, breezy walk along the coast. The drive from Taipei is about 40 min and you can expect to spend about 1.5 hrs here.
Next, head inland to Shifen, a small-town famous for its old railway tracks and sky lanterns. Writing a wish on a lantern and releasing it into the sky is a simple but magical experience, and the quaint streets make it an easy stop to explore on foot. The drive from Yehliu is about 45 min, and you can expect to spend about 1-1.5 hrs here which includes enjoying some local delicacies on the streets and releasing a lantern.
About a 30-minute walk from Shifen Old Street lies Shifen Waterfall. Plan to spend around two hours here, exploring the scenic wooden boardwalk that loops around the falls and offers multiple viewpoints from different angles.
End your day in Jiufen, a hilltop town that feels like stepping into another era. Wander through the narrow, lantern-lit streets lined with teahouses, local snacks, and souvenir shops. If you time it right, you can catch the sunset over the mountains and sea, then settle in for some traditional tea or street food as the town lights up — it’s the perfect cozy end to a full day of exploring.
If you’re in Jiufen during daylight hours, you will also catch sight of one of the most Instagrammable temple roofs in Taiwan – Jiufen Xiahai City God temple – a small yet striking temple perched above the coast, best known for its dramatic golden dragon that frames sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. On clear days, the contrast between the ornate dragon and the deep blue coastline is especially photogenic.
Day 5: Shiding, Thousand Island Lake area & Pinglin
This is one of the lesser-known half-day trips from Taipei, but for me, it turned out to be one of the most rewarding—especially when it comes to views. We found an Uber driver who was happy to take us around for the day at a very reasonable price, which gave us the freedom to explore quieter corners where taxis aren’t easy to find.
Start your day in Shiding, a peaceful riverside town that feels refreshingly untouched by mass tourism. With its old stone houses, tiny tea shops, and slow-paced local life, Shiding is the perfect place to stretch your legs and gently ease into Taiwan’s tea-growing countryside. Walk along the riverside path, soak in the calm, or even step down to the river itself and sit on the stones for a quiet moment. Grab a simple local bite here before heading deeper into the mountains.
Your next stop is a truly offbeat gem — Bagua Tea Garden. This was such a great find: not only can you sample unique regional teas, but it also sits right next to an observation deck with sweeping, almost unreal views over Thousand Island Lake (Qiandao Lake) below.
There are also several hiking trails around the lake that offer fantastic viewpoints. For an easy option, follow the signs to the Crocodile Island Viewing Platform, and then continue down towards Dahu No. 1 Tea Plantation. The trail entrance is conveniently located right across from the tea shop, making it easy to combine a short walk with a scenic tea stop.
If you still have time in the afternoon, make your way to Pinglin Old Town and the Pinglin Tea Museum. Pinglin Old Town is a quiet, understated tea town with small local shops and an easygoing charm. The Tea Museum offers a simple yet insightful look into Taiwan’s tea culture and makes for a fitting, unhurried end to a day spent exploring the landscapes around Thousand Island Lake.
In the evening, return to Taipei.
Day 6-8: Hualien
I chose Hualien because it stood out to me – it is where Taiwan slows down and nature takes centre stage. Framed by the Pacific Ocean on one side and dramatic mountains on the other, it’s the gateway to Taroko Gorge and a perfect base for coastal views, forested hikes, and quiet moments away from the cities. It feels raw, scenic, and refreshingly unpolished — ideal if you’re craving Taiwan’s outdoors at its best.
However, what many blogs didn’t speak about during my research, which is why it’s important that I do – Toroko Gorge was massively impacted by the 7.4 magnitude earthquake that hit Taiwan in 2024. The epicenter was near Hualien County, very close to Taroko Gorge and Taroko National Park. For this reason, while some parts of the Toroko National Park are accessible today, the popular hikes are closed indefinitely.
While in the national park, we saw massive restoration works taking place, but it is believed that restoration and stabilization could take several years. Some slopes near highways and trails may not be fully stable until around 2027 or later.
How to get to Hualien from Taipei
There are multiple high-speed trains that run from Taipei to Hualien and vice versa. You can choose between two types of routes – forest route or coastal. The journey takes about 2.5 hours, and the trains are excellent in terms of seating space, views, etc. and can be booked directly on the Taiwan Railway website here. You will receive an online QR code that needs to be exchanged with physical tickets before the journey, at the train station itself.
Recommended hotel for overnight stay in Hualien: 1999 Homestay
What to do in Hualien in 3 days
Day 1: Toroko National Park
If you’re heading to Hualien and Taroko National Park, I’d highly recommend exploring by car. While you can drive through many parts of the gorge, most trails and scenic footpaths are still off-limits due to landslides and unstable slopes, and tourist buses aren’t running inside the park at the moment.
We decided to go on foot and managed a 7 km loop that treated us to some truly breathtaking views—but honestly, having a car would have made it easier to reach some of the more iconic viewpoints and cover longer distances. Before setting off, stop by the information center—they’ll tell you which trails are open that day.
Pro tip: start early. Most gates close around 5 pm, so hitting the park first thing in the morning ensures you soak in the scenery without rushing—or getting locked in!
Dongdamen Night Market
This was one of the most highly recommended places during my research, but I was quite disappointed with Dongdamen Night Market – possibly because December was off season and Hualien is already suffering from a massive drop in tourist due to Taroko National Park closures – but the vibe in the night market was missing & not comparable at all with those in Taipei. It wasn’t “bustling” as I expected it to be and most shops didn’t open until late.
Day 2: Coastal Discovery
Pine Garden
If you’re unable to rent a car and drive, this destination is reachable on the The Taroko Tourist Shuttle (Route 310). Pine Garden is a tranquil garden set in a beautifully preserved Japanese era villa with sea views and art installations — ideal for a relaxed morning wander. The shady pine paths and quirky exhibits make it an easy, scenic stop. One of the interesting places to visit here is a wartime bomb shelter, a reminder of its past as a Japanese military office during World War II. You can walk through the narrow, dimly lit corridors and see the reinforced concrete walls that once protected soldiers from air raids.
Qixingtan Beach
Also a stop on the Route 310 tourist shuttle, Qixingtan Beach is a stunning stretch of pebbles curving along the Pacific. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll or cycling along the coast, and the turquoise-blue waters make for some truly postcard-worthy photos. The water was icy cold in December, but even in warmer months, swimming isn’t really an option, thanks to the pebbly shore and strong waves — but just soaking in the scenery is more than worth the visit.
Xincheng Old Street
This is a quick stop on the Tourist Shuttle Bus 301 route. It is a laid‑back historic strip near Xincheng Train Station with cozy cafés and local snacks — perfect for a slower morning or afternoon.
Banxia Beach
Yet another destination not on the tourist shuttle bus loop, this quieter stretch of shore is all about mellow coastal vibes, gentle waves and scenic photo ops away from the crowds.
Qingshui Cliff
Unfortunately, Qingshui Cliff is not on the tourist shuttle route, so you’ll need a car to get there — but trust me, it’s worth it. On a clear, sunny day, the basalt cliffs dropping straight into the turquoise Pacific are absolutely jaw-dropping. Even just from the roadside lookouts, the views are unforgettable and make for some seriously Instagram-worthy shots.
Optional:
Xincheng Old Street
This is a quick stop on the Tourist Shuttle Bus 301 route. It is a laid‑back historic strip near Xincheng Train Station with cozy cafés and local snacks — perfect for a slower morning or afternoon.
Banxia Beach
Yet another destination not on the tourist shuttle bus loop, this quieter stretch of shore is all about mellow coastal vibes, gentle waves and scenic photo ops away from the crowds.
Day 3: Liyu Lake & Ruisui Ranch & Hot Springs
This was my favourite day in my Hualien itinerary. Liyu lake was absolutely gorgeous – and can be compared to any other Alpine lake in Europe. One would think they’re in Austria or New Zealand just looking at the beauty of this lake. While it’s quite small, there’s an easy walking loop of about 5 kms around the lake, that offers several picnic spots, relaxation areas and excellent views of the lake from different angles. At the start and end of the trail, there are multiple restaurants so it’s best to grab something to eat before you start walking. You can also choose to go boating in the lake, if you wish.
The day we visited, it was cloudy and rainy. Neverthless, this only to the magic of the lake and didn’t take away anything from the experience. Liyu Lake, while reachable by public transportation, is best connected by car/ taxi, to save time & convenience. If you’re using the bus, check on the timings because connectivity is limited.
You may also head to Chinan National Forest Recreation Area, just a 20-min uphill walk from the lake. For a cheap ticket, the area offers a peaceful escape into Taiwan’s lush mountains, with towering cypress trees, winding walking trails, and serene streams. Perfect for a leisurely hike or a quiet picnic, it’s a place to disconnect and soak in nature.
Optional:
Ruisui Ranch and Hot Springs: This place is another 1 hour from Liyu Lake and best reached by car. You can use buses but with limited connectivity, reliance on the buses really cuts short the time available on hand and this is neither convenient nor advisable.
To continue your relaxed, scenic day amidst nature, Ruisui Ranch is a peaceful rural escape, with rolling pastures, grazing cows, and open skies that make it a great spot to unwind. You can stroll around the ranch, sample fresh dairy products, or just enjoy the pastoral scenery.
You can also visit the nearby Ruisui Hot Springs offer a perfect way to relax after exploring the mountains, soaking in warm mineral-rich waters while surrounded by mountains is a true rejuvenation. You can find more information here.
Overnight in Hualien.
If you have more time in Taiwan:
Unfortunately we only had 9 days but if you do have some more time in Taiwan or want to skip Hualien, here are some other cities that really appealed to me during my research:
Sun Moon Lake: Taiwan’s largest lake is famous for its serene waters, misty mountains, and scenic cycling paths. You can take a boat ride to the small temples dotting the lake, enjoy the lakeside cafés, or simply soak in the peaceful views — especially magical at sunrise or sunset.
How to get there from Taipei: Taipei → Taichung HSR (high speed rail): ~1 hour.
From Taichung HSR → Sun Moon Lake by shuttle/bus takes about 1.5–2 hours.
So total travel time from Taipei is ~3–3.5 hours depending on connections.
Alishan: Alishan is a mountain escape filled with towering cypress trees, hiking trails, and the iconic sunrise over the sea of clouds. Hop on the Alishan Forest Railway for a scenic ride, wander through tea plantations, and breathe in the crisp, fragrant mountain air.
How to get there from Taipei: Taipei → Chiayi HSR Station: about ~1 hour 30–1 hour 45 (HSR Taipei to Chiayi).
Then take a local bus from Chiayi HSR to Alishan (about ~2–2.5 hours).
Total journey is roughly ~3.5–4+ hours one way (depending on connections and waiting times).
Taichung: Taichung blends modern city vibes with cultural charm, from bustling night markets to contemporary art museums and quirky cafés. It’s a perfect stop for urban exploration, local eats, and a taste of central Taiwan’s lifestyle. Nestled in Taichung’s Nantun District, Rainbow Village is a burst of color in the city — a former military settlement transformed into an art playground with every wall splashed in bright murals. It’s tiny but wildly photogenic, perfect for quirky photos and a fun 30–45 minute stop as you explore Taichung.
How to get there from Taipei: By HSR: Taipei → Taichung HSR Station takes about ~1 hour on the high‑speed rail, covering roughly 160 km.
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