Taiwan Travel Guides
Click on an area of Taiwan for a more detailed overview
Things To Do In Taiwan
There is always something exciting to do when backpacking Taiwan
To get you inspired, I have provided some suggestions below.
1. EXPLORE TAIPEI
Taipei was my first stop, and wow - it had everything. I kicked things off at Taipei 101, where I took the elevator up to the top for one of the best skyline views I’ve ever seen. The food in this city is insane - Shilin Night Market became my go-to for dinner. I tried everything from stinky tofu (yep, it’s intense) to the best fried chicken cutlet ever. The National Palace Museum was surprisingly cool too -it’s packed with centuries-old Chinese treasures. And if you’re up for a short hike, definitely climb Elephant Mountain. I did it around sunset, and the city lit up beneath me
2. HIKE THROUGH TAROKO GORGE
Located in Taroko National Park, Taroko Gorge is a breathtaking natural wonder carved from marble. It’s filled with deep canyons, rushing rivers, and dramatic cliffs. Popular hikes like the Shakadang Trail and the Zhuilu Old Trail let you walk alongside crystal-clear waters or along cliffside paths with stunning views. The Eternal Spring Shrine is a picturesque spot where a waterfall flows from the temple into the gorge below. Whether you hike or just drive through, Taroko is a must-see for nature lovers.
3. SOAK IN THE HOT SPRINGS
Taiwan knows how to do hot springs right. I spent a day in Beitou, just outside Taipei, hopping between hot spring baths in the middle of a peaceful, steamy valley. Another time I went to Wulai, where I sat in an outdoor pool overlooking the river and mountains. Total bliss. Jiaoxi on the east coast had a more local vibe, and they even had little public foot baths in the street. Perfect after a long travel day.
4. EXPERIENCE TAIWANESE CULTURE
I didn’t expect to be so drawn to the temples and history, but Taiwan’s culture really pulled me in. Lukang was this old town full of winding alleys and incense-filled temples - it felt like stepping into another time. In Taipei, I stopped by the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, which was massive and impressive, and Longshan Temple was buzzing with energy. Every city had its own flavour, and I loved just wandering and discovering it all.
5. VISIT SUN MOON LAKE
Located in central Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is a serene and scenic getaway. The lake is surrounded by forested mountains and dotted with temples and pagodas. You can rent bikes and ride the picturesque cycling path that circles the lake, take a boat cruise between small lakeside towns, or visit the famous Wenwu Temple. It’s a peaceful place that feels worlds away from Taiwan’s bustling cities.
6. DISCOVER TAINAN
Tainan totally charmed me. It’s Taiwan’s oldest city, and you can feel the history in every street. I explored temples, Dutch forts, and tried local eats that I’d never even heard of before - like coffin bread, which is basically a thick slice of bread filled with creamy stuff. Weird name, amazing taste. Tainan has this slower pace that I really appreciated after the buzz of Taipei.
7. GO FOR A HIKE IN ALISHAN NATIONAL PARK
Alishan was magical. I took the Alishan Forest Railway through misty pine forests, and then woke up at an ungodly hour to catch the famous sunrise over a sea of clouds. Totally worth it. The area is also known for high-mountain oolong tea, so I spent a lazy afternoon sipping tea at a mountaintop cafe. Between the hikes, views, and crisp mountain air, it was one of my favourite spots.
8. EAT EVERYTHING
Food in Taiwan deserves its own journal. Every night market felt like a new adventure. I fell in love with beef noodle soup and lu rou fan (braised pork rice). Xiao long bao (soup dumplings) became a slight obsession - I even made a detour to try the original Din Tai Fung. Mango shaved ice saved me on hot days, and scallion pancakes were my go-to snack. Trust me, come hungry.
9. CHILL ON THE EAST COAST
I spent some time on the east coast around Hualien and Taitung, and it felt like a different world—slower, more relaxed, and ridiculously beautiful. Dulan was this tiny surf town with a really creative vibe. I caught a few live music nights there and even tried surfing (badly). It was the perfect break from the city grind. The coastal drives in that area were also stunning - cliffs on one side, Pacific Ocean on the other.
10. GO ISLAND HOPPING
I made time for a couple of the offshore islands, and they were totally worth it. Green Island had the best snorkelling I’ve done in ages, plus this wild hot spring that’s right next to the ocean. On Lanyu (Orchid Island), I learned about the Tao people and saw flying fish being dried in the sun. It felt like stepping into a different culture entirely. The islands aren’t touristy like the mainland either - just raw, real, and beautiful.
Getting Around Taiwan
High-Speed Rail (HSR)
The Taiwan High-Speed Rail runs along the west coast from Taipei to Kaohsiung, connecting major cities like Taichung and Tainan. It is definitely the fastest way to travel long distances, with journeys that would take several hours by bus or train reduced to just 1 – 2 hours. It’s a bit pricier than other options but worth it for the time saved.
Book tickets in advance for discounts.
Bus
Intercity buses in Taiwan are clean, cheap, and frequent. Companies like UBus, Kuo-Kuang, and Ho-Hsin offer routes between major cities and smaller towns. For budget-conscious backpackers, long-distance buses are a great alternative to trains, especially when traveling overnight.
Scooter Rental
Scooters are a popular way to explore rural areas and scenic spots like Sun Moon Lake or the East Coast. You’ll need an International Driving Permit (with motorcycle endorsement), and some rental shops may require a local license. Always wear a helmet and check local laws before riding.
Taiwan Railway Trains (TRA)
The regular train network is comprehensive and scenic, especially along the east coast. TRA trains are slower than the HSR but more affordable, making them a great choice if you are travelling on a budget. You can choose between express trains like the Puyuma or Tze-Chiang and slower local trains that stop at every station.
Metro Systems
Taipei and Kaohsiung both have efficient MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) systems, ideal for exploring the cities. They’re easy to navigate, with signs in English and contactless payment options. Get an EasyCard or iPASS to make getting around smoother – these cards can be used on most forms of public transport across Taiwan.
Uber
While Grab is widely used across Southeast Asia, it does not operate in Taiwan.
However, Uber is available and widely used in Taiwan, particularly in major cities like Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung . Uber offers a convenient option for backpackers as the app allows for easy ride requests and fare estimates without the need to communicate directly with drivers .
Travel Tips for Getting Around Taiwan
EasyCard
Buy one at the airport or any metro station. It saves time, offers discounts, and works almost everywhere.
Late-Night Transport
MRTs and buses may stop running around midnight. Plan ahead or use taxis (metered and reasonably priced).
Apps to Download
Taiwan Railway, Bus+, Google Maps, and Uber (available in some cities).
Language Barrier
Transport signs are usually in English, but it’s handy to show drivers the destination in Chinese.
Best Time To Visit Taiwan
The best time to visit Taiwan is October to April, when the weather is cooler, drier, and generally more comfortable—especially for hiking, sightseeing, and city exploring.
October to November (autumn) – Probably the sweet spot. The weather is warm but not humid, skies are usually clear, and typhoon season has just ended. Great for hiking, festivals, and exploring both cities and nature.
December to February (winter) – Mild winters in the lowlands (15–20°C / 59–68°F), but it can get chilly in the mountains. Great time for hot springs and avoiding big tourist crowds. It might rain a bit more in the north.
March to April (spring) – Another great time to visit. Everything’s blooming, weather’s warming up but still pleasant. Avoid early April if you don’t want to run into crowds during the Tomb Sweeping Festival.
May to September (summer/typhoon season) – Hot, humid, and prone to heavy rain and typhoons, especially July to September. Still doable, especially for surfing or visiting the islands, but pack light clothes and a rain jacket.
Visa Requirements (updated 2025)
IT IS IMPORTANT TO CHECK VISA REQUIREMENTS SPECIFIC TO YOUR HOME COUNTRY. THE FOLLOWING ADVICE IS FOR UK CITIZENS
As a UK citizen, you can visit Taiwan without a visa for up to 90 days under the visa-exemption program. This applies to travel for tourism, business meetings, visiting family or friends, attending cultural or sports events, and similar short-term activities .
Entry Requirements:
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Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of entry into Taiwan.
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Return or Onward Ticket: You should have a confirmed return or onward ticket.
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Proof of Purpose: It’s advisable to carry documentation supporting the purpose of your visit, such as hotel bookings or business invitations.
Extending Your Stay:
If you wish to stay longer, you may apply for an extension of up to an additional 90 days, totaling 180 days. This extension must be applied for before your initial 90-day period expires .
Activities Requiring a Permit:
If you plan to engage in activities that require special permits - such as employment, formal study, or journalism—you must obtain the appropriate visa or permit before entering Taiwan .
For the most current information and any updates to entry requirements, it’s recommended to consult the Taiwan Bureau of Consular Affairs and the UK Government’s travel advice for Taiwan.
Travel Vaccinations
Before setting off on your backpacking adventure, I would highly recommend speaking to your GP or visiting a travel vaccine clinic to get the latest information on what vaccines to get. Make sure to leave plenty of time as some vaccines require multiple jabs over several months. If you plan on doing certain activities that may increase the risk of disease, such as jungle trekking, make sure to mention this to your health advisor. Remember to check your vaccination record as you may have had some as an infant or during secondary school.
Recommended Vaccinations:
Covid-19
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Influenza
Japanese Encephalitis
Tetanus, Diphtheria and Polio
Typhoid
Measles, Mumps and Rubella (MMR)
Rabies
A Yellow Fever vaccine is not essential for travelling to Indonesia however, if you are travelling from a high risk country you may be required to show a yellow fever certificate. This map shows high risk countries for yellow fever.
Dengue Fever and Zika Virus
A common illness amongst backpackers is dengue fever which is contracted through mosquito bites. Whilst most people who contract the illness don’t know they have it, symptoms can include a high fever (hence the name dengue fever), severe headaches, muscle and joint pain, nausea and vomiting, a rash and swollen glands. Sounds nasty right?!
There is a dengue fever risk in Taiwan, particularly in the southern regions such as Tainan and Kaohsiung. In 2023, Taiwan experienced a significant outbreak, with over 26,000 locally transmitted cases, primarily concentrated in these southern cities.
Make sure you pack a bottle of insect repellent before you arrive in the country along with some longer layers to cover your legs and arms in the evening. The best products are chemical based repellents like DEET, Picaridin and Permethrin. I have also used natural repellents such as lemongrass, which, to my surprise, did work, however its effectiveness was not as good as the chemical products.
Sim Cards / Wifi
Staying connected in Taiwan is relatively easy, however internet speeds can vary depending on where you are. The main phone networks are: Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile and FarEasTone
Chunghwa Telecom offers the most extensive coverage and is the most reliable choice for travellers.
Option 1: Buy an eSIM
Purchasing an eSIM is a great way to access the internet whilst overseas. Personally, this is the easiest option and the option I choose whenever I am travelling outside of my home country. It is simple, affordable and hassle-free. Instead of finding a store and physically swapping out your home SIM for a travel SIM, you can download a data plan to your phone and instantly connect to a mobile network when you land in the country!
The app I use for buying an eSIM is called Airalo. After downloading the app and choosing the SIM you want, it will walk you through how to install and activate the eSIM.
Check out available eSIMs at Airalo.
Option 2: Buy a physical SIM in store
Physical SIM cards are widely available and can be purchased at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, in many convenience stores such as 7-Eleven and FamilyMart, or at official telecom shops across the country. Chunghwa Telecom offers the most extensive coverage and is a reliable choice for backpackers, with prepaid plans that typically include unlimited data for durations ranging from 3 to 30 days. Prices usually range from NT$300 to NT$1000 (around £8–25), and some plans also include local calls and texts. Taiwan Mobile and FarEasTone offer similar plans, with FarEasTone often providing slightly lower rates and international calling credit on select options.
Travel Tip: Taiwanese law requires you to show your passport when purchasing a physical SIM.
Plug Type
The standard plug type in Taiwan is Type A and B. An important item to pack is a universal travel adaptor that can offer conversion to multiple plug types. If you plan on taking any styling tools (hairdryer/curling tong) a converter is worth taking to avoid power surges.
Pack an extension lead! That way you can plug in one adapter for this and still have multiple plugs available!
DOWNLOAD A VPN!
A VPN stands for Virtual Private Network and offers a safer, freer and more secure online experience.
What does a VPN do?
1. It keeps your personal data like passwords, search history, account details and credit card details private.
2. It allows access to home content abroad as well as content from other countries. This is great when you want to watch Netflix shows only available in certain countries.
3. It can be cheaper to book flights and accommodation when connected to a different country.
Click here to give the Surfshark VPN 30 day free trial a go!
Language
The official language spoken in Taiwan is Mandarin Chinese (specifically Taiwanese Mandarin), though many locals also speak Taiwanese Hokkien (commonly called Taiwanese) and some speak Hakka. English is understood in major cities and tourist areas, but not widely spoken in rural regions.
Here are 5 useful Mandarin Chinese phrases:
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Hello – 你好 (nǐ hǎo)
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Thank you – 謝謝 (xiè xiè)
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How much is this? – 這個多少錢？(zhè ge duō shǎo qián?)
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Where is the bathroom? – 廁所在哪裡？(cè suǒ zài nǎ lǐ?)
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I don’t understand – 我聽不懂 (wǒ tīng bù dǒng)
Religion
The main religions in Taiwan are a blend of Buddhism, Taoism, and traditional Chinese folk religion. These often coexist in the same temples and belief systems, with many Taiwanese people practicing elements of all three rather than adhering to just one.
There are smaller communities of Christianity, Islam, and other faiths, but the spiritual culture is predominantly influenced by centuries-old Chinese traditions.
Temples are a big part of daily life in Taiwan and are often beautifully decorated, serving as places of worship, festivals, and community gatherings.
IMPORTANT NUMBERS
Police: 110
Fire: 119
Ambulance: 119
Staying Safe
Taiwan is considered one of the safest countries in the world for backpackers. Violent crime is rare, and petty crime rates are very low, even in large cities. Locals are generally friendly and helpful, and solo travellers, especially women, usually feel comfortable exploring the country day or night. That said, it’s always wise to take basic precautions as you would anywhere!
Common Scams
Scams targeting foreigners are uncommon in Taiwan, but it’s good to stay alert:
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Taxi overcharging: Rare, but confirm the meter is running or use a ride app like LINE Taxi or Uber.
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Fake monks or donation collectors: Politely decline if approached by someone asking for money in tourist areas.
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Tea shop scams (very rare): If invited by a stranger to a tea ceremony, be cautious and ask questions—some places may charge excessive prices.
Traffic and Insurance
Taiwan’s roads can be busy, and scooters are everywhere. While public transport is excellent, watch out when crossing streets:
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Always use crosswalks and look both ways, even on green lights.
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On narrow roads or in night markets, stay alert for scooters weaving through pedestrians.
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When renting a scooter or bike, always wear a helmet and drive cautiously.
Accidents can and do happen when backpacking so make sure to wear a helmet and drive slow, particularly when road conditions are bad. Most importantly, get yourself covered with travel insurance. I recommend SafteyWing as the best backpacker travel insurance. You will also need to get yourself an International Driving Permit in order to legally drive here. Insurance companies will most likely not cover you if you don’t have this.
Natural Disasters
Taiwan is prone to certain natural hazards:
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Earthquakes: Taiwan is on a tectonic fault line. Learn basic earthquake safety (drop, cover, hold on) and follow local alerts.
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Typhoons: From June to October. Check forecasts (like the Central Weather Bureau) and avoid mountain or coastal travel during warnings.
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Heat & humidity: Especially in summer - stay hydrated, use sunscreen, and rest in the shade.
LGBTQ+ Backpackers
Taiwan is a safe, progressive, and welcoming destination for LGBTQ+ travellers, making it a great stop on any backpacking journey. It became the first country in Asia to legalise same-sex marriage in 2019 and has an active, vibrant queer community - especially in Taipei. LGBTQ+ backpackers can expect a high level of acceptance and safety while exploring the country. Public perception is generally tolerant, especially among younger generations. Holding hands or showing affection in public is unlikely to attract negative attention in urban areas. That said, in smaller towns or rural regions, more conservative attitudes might linger, so discretion can be appreciated depending on the setting.
Taipei is the hub for LGBTQ+ nightlife, with areas like Red House (Ximending) offering bars, drag shows, and clubs that cater specifically to queer travelers and locals. Taiwan also hosts one of Asia’s biggest and most joyful Pride parades, held annually in October.
UK Government LGBTQ+ Travel Advice
For Up to Date UK Government Safety Advice: Click Here
Insider Tips
A great way to save money when backpacking is to eat local food. Local food in Taiwan is a great alternative to a Western Food and is delicious! Make sure to try local dishes such as beef noodle soup and stinky tofu!
If you are going to Taiwan for a ‘backpacking’ experience, then make sure to do it properly! Book into hostels instead of hotels - this is a much better way to meet likeminded travellers and keeps to a lower budget. Not all hostels are party party party - if you want some down time to chill out, there are tons of more relaxed hostels to stay in. If you want more privacy but also want to socialise, booking a private room in a hostel is a good option!
Whilst having a phone full of photos is a great way to remember your time backpacking, I would highly reccommend packing a notepad and pen. Writing as little as a sentence a day is really good way of noting down what you got up too, how you felt, any friends you made etc. Putting the photos together with the diary makes an invaluable book to look back on years down the line.
Whilst it is a great idea to have a plan of the kinds of activities you want to do, don’t tie yourself down to anything. With this I mean try not to book anything in advance - as a backpacker plans change ALL THE TIME. Travel agencies and tour companies are dotted all over Indonesia so wait until you arrive to book anything. Activities are often also cheaper when booking in person.
Pick up an EasyCard as soon as you arrive - it’s a rechargeable contactless card used for public transport (MRT, buses, some trains), convenience stores, and even bike rentals. It saves time and small change, and can be topped up almost anywhere.
While Taipei is amazing, Taiwan’s real magic lies beyond the capital. Don’t miss Taroko Gorge, Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, Tainan, or Kenting for beaches and national parks. The island is compact, so it’s easy to cover diverse landscapes in a short time.
Follow my travels on Instagram for fun and exciting reels!