Taiwan Travel Guide for Planning Your Trip

Destination: Taiwan

Taiwan Travel Guide for Planning Your Trip

Destination: Taiwan

TAIWAN TRAVEL GUIDE

In all honesty, I fell head over heels in love with Taiwan. Everything about this beautiful island nation appeals to me: delicious food, friendly and openminded locals, a vibrant culture and a fascinating history. That’s why I’m certain you will love it too!

Despite Taiwan’s small size, there is a lot to do and beautiful attractions and national wonders pop up in every corner. To really get to know Taiwan, you need to take the time and travel through the different regions. However, if you only have time for a short trip, I recommend visiting Taipei, the bustling capital city.

Things to See and Do in Taiwan

Head up Taipei 101
Hike in Taroko National Park
See Shifen Waterfall

Eat at Raohe Night Market
Spend a Night in Jiufen Old Town
Bathe in the Hot Springs

Enjoy the Many Beaches
Visit a Local Temple

Typical Costs When Traveling

Accommodation – Staying at a standard 3-star hotel in Taiwan costs around $30 USD per night, while a room in a hostel is already available for a mere $10 USD per night.

Food – It’s very cheap to eat out in Taiwan, especially if you eat where the locals eat. In that case, you’ll likely spend around $10 USD per day on food.

Transportation – Getting from point A to point B isn’t going to cost you very much in Taiwan. Most big cities have a great subway and bus system with cheap fares.

Suggested daily budget

19-31 EUR / 22-35 USD

(Note: This is a suggested budget assuming you’re staying in a hostel, eating out a little, cooking most of your meals, and using local transportation.

Using the budget tips below, you can always lower this number. However, if you stay in fancier accommodation or eat out more often, expect this to be higher!)

Money Saving Tips

Visit free attractions. Many of Taiwan's amazing attractions are actually for free; this includes Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall, Sun Yat-sen Memorial Hall, Martyrs’ Shrine, and Elephant Mountain Hiking Trail.
Eat at the night market. Night markets are a great place to eat on a budget and to try some local staples. Be sure to try pork pepper bun, stinku tofu and lots of milk tea.

Get an EasyCard. This touch-and-go' card can be used for the Taipei Metro, bus services, designated car parks, stores and government agencies - it's your best friend while in Taipei.
Avoid money exchange fees.This does not only apply to traveling in Taiwan but I do this all the time: simply withdraw money from an ATM while traveling. This gets you the best exchange rate.

WHAT CAN I EXPECT FROM TAIWAN?

Taiwan blew my mind. Seriously, I’m so eager to return and explore more of it. If you enjoy traveling East Asia, especially China, Taiwan is right up your alley. In fact, due to their shared history, Taiwanese culture holds ancient Chinese values very dear.

What I also love about Taiwan is its mix of nature and urban spaces. Whether you love bustling cities or enjoy serene natural beauty – Taiwan has got it all!

TRAVEL INSURANCE FOR TAIWAN

I’m always surprised how many people travel without travel insurance. For me, it’s as essential to travel as buying a plane ticket, backpack or accommodation, and I never go without it.

Although Taiwan is relatively safe, unexpected natural disasters can always happen and I’ve witnessed people getting laptops and phones pickpocketed first hand.

Adequate insurance not only provides you with medical coverage (if you get sick or break your leg), but also covers things like your camera full of epic shots getting damaged or stolen, your flights getting cancelled, or you getting caught up in a natural disaster.

In short, it’s an insurance against potential issues that arise when you’re traveling and can save your life (or at the very least, a lifetime of debt).

BOOK | I recommend booking World Nomads travel insurance

World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.