E x p l o r e t h e w o r l d. B r i n g i t s b e a u t y h o m e.
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E x p l o r e t h e w o r l d. B r i n g i t s b e a u t y h o m e.
Taiwan may be a small island, but it certainly knows how to impress! Think lively cities, lantern-lit villages, breathtaking mountain scenery, and beautiful beaches where you can escape the crowds.
One day, you could be admiring Taipei’s famous skyline. The next, you could be sipping tea in a mountain village or exploring centuries-old temples. And if you love the outdoors, Taiwan has plenty of surprises waiting.
But with so many wonderful places to explore, where should you start?
We’ve rounded up 11 of the best places to visit in Taiwan for First-Timers, along with some beautiful beaches worth adding to your itinerary. From famous landmarks to peaceful lakes and coastal escapes, you’ll find plenty of inspiration for your next vacation.
So, let’s explore!
Taipei is a fascinating introduction to the island.
Towering skyscrapers rise above bustling streets, while ornate temples and traditional markets remind you of the city’s history.
And once evening arrives, the night markets bring another side of Taipei to life.
Taipei 101 is one of Taiwan’s most recognizable landmarks.
Once the world’s tallest building, it remains an extraordinary example of modern engineering.
Head to the observation decks for panoramic views of Taipei.
>> Our tip: Visit shortly before sunset on a clear day. You’ll have the chance to admire the city in daylight and watch the buildings illuminate after dark.
If you enjoy history and art, make time for the National Palace Museum.
Its remarkable collection includes Chinese imperial treasures, jade carvings, ceramics, and calligraphy.
Allow at least a few hours to explore.
This impressive landmark features monumental architecture, formal gardens, and exhibitions exploring Taiwan’s history.
The complex also offers an opportunity to understand the country’s complicated political past.
Longshan Temple is one of Taipei’s most atmospheric cultural landmarks.
As incense rises above the courtyards, worshippers gather to pray beneath beautifully decorated roofs.
Be respectful of religious activities and follow photography guidance.
Come hungry!
Shilin is one of Taipei’s best-known night markets, offering street food, shopping, and a lively evening atmosphere.
Try Taiwanese sausages, crispy snacks, and traditional desserts.
Alternatively, visit Raohe Street Night Market for an enjoyable food-focused evening.
For a completely different perspective of Taipei, ride the Maokong Gondola into the surrounding hills.
The area is famous for tea cultivation.
Settle into a tea house, order a pot of local tea, and enjoy the mountain scenery.
>> TravelandHome tip: Allow time to relax here. The pleasure of Maokong isn’t simply the gondola ride. It’s enjoying Taiwan’s tea culture away from the busy city.
>> Worth booking: Taipei 101 observation tickets, guided food experiences, and selected city sightseeing passes.
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Jiufen feels wonderfully atmospheric.
This former mining settlement clings to the mountains overlooking Taiwan’s northeastern coastline.
Narrow streets wind between little shops, traditional tea houses, and food stalls selling local specialties.
As evening approaches, glowing red lanterns transform the streets.
It’s easy to understand why Jiufen is one of Taiwan’s most photographed destinations.
You may have heard that Jiufen inspired Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away.
However, director Hayao Miyazaki has denied the connection.
Fortunately, Jiufen needs no fictional connection to feel magical!
From Taipei, you can travel by bus or combine a train to Ruifang with a local bus.
Depending on your starting point and traffic, allow roughly 1–1.5 hours or longer.
A guided excursion is particularly convenient if you want to combine Jiufen with Shifen Waterfall or Shifen Old Street.
>> Hidden travel tip: Jiufen becomes very crowded during popular daytime hours. Consider staying until evening, when many tour groups depart. Alternatively, stay nearby and enjoy the village at a quieter pace.
Yehliu Geopark is one of northern Taiwan’s most unusual natural attractions.
Over thousands of years, wind, waves, and erosion have shaped the coastline into fascinating rock formations.
The most famous is the Queen’s Head, which resembles the profile of a queen.
However, the surrounding landscape is just as intriguing.
You’ll discover mushroom-shaped rocks, unusual textures, and impressive ocean views.
Yehliu lies on Taiwan’s northern coast.
You can reach it by public bus from Taipei, though a guided excursion may be more convenient.
>> Our tip: Wear comfortable, grippy shoes. Some surfaces can become slippery, particularly after rain.
Yehliu also combines well with a northern coast sightseeing itinerary.
Taichung provides an enjoyable contrast to Taipei.
The city is known for contemporary architecture, creative spaces, shopping, and its thriving food scene.
Even if you’re not attending a performance, this remarkable building is worth seeing for its flowing architectural design.
Fengjia is one of Taiwan’s famous night market districts.
It’s an excellent place to sample street food while exploring the surrounding shops.
The Gaomei Wetlands are particularly beautiful around sunset.
On calm days, shallow water reflects the sky, creating striking views across the coastal landscape.
However, access depends on weather and tidal conditions.
>> Our recommendation: Combine Taichung with Sun Moon Lake if you have enough time. The city makes a convenient starting point for exploring central Taiwan.
Surrounded by forested mountains, Sun Moon Lake is one of Taiwan’s most beautiful natural destinations.
Its name comes from the shapes traditionally associated with different sections of the lake.
However, the real pleasure is the peaceful atmosphere.
Take a sightseeing boat, enjoy a lakeside walk, or rent a bicycle to explore part of the scenic cycling route.
You can also visit Wenwu Temple, which overlooks the lake.
From Taichung, take a connecting bus toward Sun Moon Lake.
The journey generally takes approximately 1.5–2 hours, depending on your departure point and traffic.
Shuishe is convenient for transportation connections and boat excursions.
Meanwhile, Ita Thao offers food stalls, shops, and a lively lakeside village atmosphere.
>> Our favorite idea: Stay overnight. Once many day-trip groups have left, the lake can feel wonderfully peaceful.
Imagine mist drifting between giant trees while a little mountain train makes its way through the forest.
That’s part of Alishan’s appeal.
This mountainous region is famous for its spectacular landscapes, forest railway, ancient trees, and sunrise viewpoints.
Explore the forest trails, admire the towering trees, and enjoy the distinctive mountain atmosphere.
If the weather cooperates, head to a sunrise viewpoint to watch the morning light spread across the mountains.
However, don’t feel disappointed if clouds obscure the sunrise. The forests are beautiful in their own right.
Chiayi is the main gateway to Alishan.
Depending on your schedule, you can travel by a combination of railway and bus services.
The Alishan Forest Railway is a wonderful attraction, but departure times and ticket availability require advance planning.
Check current railway operations before booking your accommodation.
>> A practical tip: Don’t underestimate temperature changes. Even during warmer months, Alishan mornings can feel chilly.
Tainan is one of the best places to experience Taiwan’s cultural heritage.
As you explore its historic streets, you’ll discover ornate temples, old shopfronts, traditional food stalls, and charming neighborhoods.
The city rewards unhurried exploration.
Visit this historic site to learn about Taiwan’s Dutch colonial period and Anping’s maritime past.
Chihkan Tower offers another glimpse into Tainan’s rich history.
Its architecture and grounds reflect different periods of the city’s development.
This historic complex is an important cultural landmark.
Take time to admire the traditional architecture and peaceful surroundings.
If you love atmospheric streets, don’t miss Shennong Street.
Traditional buildings, little galleries, and softly glowing lanterns create a charming setting, especially in the evening.
Tainan is famous for its local cuisine.
Try danzai noodles, milkfish dishes, traditional rice cakes, and regional sweets.
>> A little insider advice: Some of Tainan’s most popular food stalls open early and close once they sell out. Check their opening times rather than assuming they’ll still be serving dinner.
Kaohsiung offers an appealing combination of culture, modern attractions, and seaside scenery.
Its waterfront has transformed over the years, creating lively public spaces and creative districts.
Former industrial buildings now house galleries, creative shops, and cultural attractions.
It’s a lovely neighborhood for a relaxed afternoon.
Lotus Pond is famous for its temples and colorful architecture.
The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas are particularly recognizable.
However, individual structures may close temporarily for restoration, so check access before visiting.
Fo Guang Shan is one of Taiwan’s most impressive Buddhist destinations.
Its monumental architecture, peaceful grounds, and cultural exhibitions make it a memorable excursion.
The nearby Buddha Museum is particularly striking.
Allow plenty of time to explore the complex.
For a relaxed coastal outing, take the ferry from Kaohsiung’s Gushan area to Cijin Island.
The crossing takes only a few minutes.
Once there, you can explore the waterfront, visit Cihou Lighthouse, sample seafood, and enjoy the coastal scenery.
>> Our tip: Visit Cijin in the afternoon, then stay for sunset if conditions are favorable.
Kenting sits near Taiwan’s southern tip and is one of the country’s best-known beach destinations.
You’ll find sandy beaches, dramatic coastal viewpoints, and beautiful ocean scenery.
Visit Eluanbi for its lighthouse and coastal scenery.
Alternatively, head to Longpan Park for beautiful views over the Pacific Ocean.
Take the high-speed train to Zuoying Station in Kaohsiung.
Then continue by bus or private transfer.
The road journey generally takes around two to three hours, depending on traffic and your final destination.
>> Important: Not every beach is suitable for swimming. Check local safety advice, currents, and lifeguard information before entering the water.
The Penghu archipelago lies west of Taiwan’s main island.
It’s famous for its unusual basalt formations, fishing villages, sandy beaches, and island scenery.
Penghu feels quite different from Taiwan’s major cities.
Here, you’ll find traditional coastal communities, beautiful ocean views, and opportunities to explore at a slower pace.
Visit Magong’s historic streets, admire the basalt cliffs, or discover the beaches of Jibei Island.
Jibei is particularly famous for its long sandy spit.
Domestic flights operate from several Taiwanese cities.
Selected ferry services also connect the archipelago with the main island.
However, schedules depend on weather and seasonal demand.
>> Our recommendation: Allow at least two or three days for Penghu rather than squeezing the islands into a mainland itinerary.
Taiwan’s east coast is spectacular.
Mountains rise dramatically beside the Pacific Ocean, creating some of the country’s most impressive scenery.
Hualien is a useful base for exploring the region.
However, planning a visit to Taroko National Park now requires particular care.
The April 3, 2024 earthquake caused extensive damage to Taroko National Park.
Since then, authorities have gradually reopened selected areas and routes. However, some popular trails and attractions remain closed or restricted.
Road access can also change because of repairs, landslides, or severe weather.
For this reason, don’t assume that previously published Taroko Gorge itineraries are still possible.
>> Before visiting, check the official Taroko National Park website for the latest trail and road updates.
Hualien offers a lively food scene, cultural attractions, and beautiful coastal landscapes.
Qixingtan Beach is especially photogenic, with its pebble shoreline and mountain backdrop.
However, dangerous waves and steep underwater drop-offs make it unsuitable for casual swimming.
>> Our advice: Treat Hualien and Taiwan’s east coast as a separate excursion. Allow flexibility for weather and transport disruptions.
Taiwan offers several beautiful beaches, but each has a different character.
Some suit relaxing days by the sea. Others are better for coastal walks, photography, or seasonal water activities.
| Beach | Location | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Fulong Beach | Northeast Taiwan | Sandy beach outings |
| Baishawan | Northern Taiwan | Coastal scenery |
| Xiaowan | Kenting | Resort-area beach experience |
| Baishawan | Kenting | White sand and ocean views |
| Qixingtan | Hualien | Photography and walking |
| Jibei Island | Penghu | Island scenery |
>> Travel tip: Check swimming conditions before visiting. Strong currents and changing weather can affect even the most inviting beaches.
From Taipei’s colorful night markets and Jiufen’s glowing lanterns to Alishan’s misty forests and Kenting’s beautiful beaches, Taiwan has something special around every corner.
And that’s what makes exploring this island so exciting. You can enjoy bustling cities, peaceful mountain scenery, fascinating history, and relaxing coastal escapes, all in one vacation.
Our advice? Don’t try to squeeze everything into one trip. Choose the places that appeal to you most and leave yourself time to enjoy them. After all, some of the best travel memories come from the moments you didn’t plan!
Ready to turn your wish list into a vacation? Our Taiwan Travel Guide covers everything from the best time to visit and how to get around to where to stay, travel costs, and suggested itineraries.
Happy exploring!
>> Ready to plan your trip? Our Taiwan Travel Guide covers the best time to visit, how to get around, where to stay, travel costs, and practical itineraries to help you make the most of your vacation.
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