Your next trip to Taiwan will be anything but boring with our guide on the best things to do and cities to visit!
So, you’ve checked out the best things to do in Taipei, and now you want to know the best things to do in Taiwan? Yes, its bustling capital has all you need for a quick getaway – shopping, good food, cultural spots and more – but there’s so much more to see and many more cities to visit in Taiwan.
Make your way from North to South, and traverse through seaside towns, unreal mountainous regions and stunning national parks. As a repeat visitor to Taiwan (with future trips planned), I’ve personally compiled the best things to do and cities to visit in Taiwan. It might just become your new favourite travel destination, too.
How to get around in Taiwan
First, let’s talk logistics. If inter-city travel seems daunting to you, I’m here to reassure you that navigating Taiwan is a breeze. Within the cities, an EasyCard or iPass is your best friend. These cards can be purchased from convenience stores and metro stations, and used to pay for public transportation and bike rentals. When it comes to travelling from city to city, here are the three main forms of public transportation.
Taiwan High Speed Rail
Best for: Efficient bullet train rides along Taiwan’s west coast
Meet the Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR), aka the bullet train network that takes you from Taipei in the north to Kaohsiung in the south in under 100 minutes. With speeds up to 300km per hour and 12 stations, the THSR offers rides to popular cities including Taichung, Chiayi, Tainan and Kaohsiung.
Tickets can be purchased online or at any THSR station, with options for same-day travel. Business car, standard car and non-reserved car seats are available. I recommend the standard option: you’ll get a guaranteed seat and it’s comfy enough that you don’t need an upgrade. For travelling to major cities in Taiwan, the THSR is my go-to.
Taiwan Railway
Best for: Affordable train rides to over 200 local cities in Taiwan
The Taiwan Railway (TRA) is another popular inter-city transport option. While the TRA runs on a classic rail network and is slower than the THSR, it reaches smaller and more local stations (over 200!) across Taiwan. The TRA circles the entire island, including places on the east coast like Yilan, Taitung and Hualien, while the THSR runs in a straight line along the west coast.
It feels a tad older and more rugged than the THSR, but it’s comfortable enough. Similar to the THSR, you can choose from various train classes. Another plus point: tickets are cheaper than the THSR. I’d opt for the TRA if I’m looking to visit destinations on the outskirts, or want a more affordable ride.
Inter-city buses
Best for: Affordable and comfy bus rides to areas unreachable by train
If you’re looking to reach places that the trains can’t (think Alishan and Sun Moon Lake), consider taking an inter-city bus. Operated by companies like UBus and King Bus, these buses take you on comfy long-distance rides, complete with massive reclining seats, USB ports and WiFi. Due to longer travel times, bus tickets are also typically more affordable.
Tickets can be bought online via third-party platforms like Klook and KKday, in-person at major bus terminals, and at convenience store kiosks.
Cities to visit and things to do in Taiwan
1. Taipei
Taipei is probably the first Taiwanese city that comes to mind. The bustling capital has all you need for a first trip to Taiwan: iconic attractions like the eye-catching Taipei 101 and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, vibrant shopping districts such as Ximending, and classic night markets for the quintessential local experience. Psst: I’ve done a full guide on the best things to do in Taipei, so you don’t miss out on the must-visit spots!
Located in the northern region of the island, Taipei is also well-positioned as a base for day trips in that area. Popular day trips include Jiufen (Think Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away IRL; known for its traditional tea houses, old streets and red lanterns) and Shifen (a historic coal-mining town with a stunning waterfall and sky lanterns); Yangmingshan National Park for hikes, thermal hot springs and grasslands; port city Keelung for coastal landscapes; and Wulai, an indigenous district in New Taipei City with hot springs and waterfalls.
Known for: Taiwan’s vibrant capital with great connectivity, iconic attractions, shopping and street food
Top attractions: Taipei 101; Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall; Shilin and Raohe night markets; Ximending District
How long to spend: 3 to 5 days; it’s a convenient base for day trips to places like Jiufen, Shifen and Keelung
How to get there: Take a 4.5 to 5-hour flight directly from Singapore Changi Airport (SIN) to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). If coming from other Taiwanese cities, take the THSR to Taipei Main Station.
2. Yilan
Yilan is another northeastern city in Taiwan worth a visit. Bordered by mountains, it’s perfectly poised for a nature retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Taipei. There are three main areas to visit in Yilan: Jiaoxi, a relaxing hot spring village with waterfall trails; Yilan City, a slow-paced town with arts and cultural spots; and Luodong, known for the legendary Luodong Night Market.
Another popular spot is Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area in Datong Township. While it’s further away from the city centre of Yilan, it draws crowds for its serene mountainous setting and lush forests. Visit attractions such as the Bong Bong Train, Jiancing Historic Trail and Jiuzhize Hot Spring. Tip: rent a car for convenient exploration of Yilan, or dedicate a day to each town for maximum efficiency!
Known for: A nature escape with mineral-rich cold and hot springs, lush green rice paddies and ocean views
Top attractions: Jiaoxi Hot Springs; Jimmy Park; Luodong Night Market; Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area
How long to spend: 1 to 2 days; it can be done as a weekend trip or a day trip from Taipei
How to get there: From Taipei Main Station, take a local TRA train or an inter-city bus to Yilan Station.
3. Taichung
Bubble tea lovers, pencil in a trip to Taichung. Not only is this city known for its arts and culture scene, but it’s also said to be the birthplace of the iconic Taiwanese drink. Visit the OG outlet of international teahouse chain Chun Shui Tang for its signature bubble milk tea and local specialties, before stopping by other must-visit spots like the 1.5km-long Feng Chia Night Market, Rainbow Village for colourful murals, and the only national-grade fine arts museum in Taiwan, National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts.
Get your dose of fresh air and nature on a trip to Gaomei Wetlands, a 700-hectare ecological conservation area in Taichung. Stroll down a 800m-long wooden boardwalk, snap photos with towering wind turbines, spot mudskippers and crabs, and catch stunning coastal sunsets. I also recommend venturing further to Nantou County’s Sun Moon Lake. As Taiwan’s largest alpine lake, this tranquil area is best explored on a scenic bike or ferry ride.
Known for: The birthplace of bubble tea, with a strong arts and culture scene
Top attractions: Rainbow Village; National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts; Feng Chia Night Market; Gaomei Wetlands; Sun Moon Lake
How long to spend: 2 to 3 days
How to get there: Take the THSR from Taipei Main Station to Taichung Station, or the TRA if you’re coming from neighbouring cities.
4. Chiayi
Situated between Taichung and Kaohsiung, the city of Chiayi often falls under the radar. But if Alishan National Scenic Area is on your bucket list, you can’t skip visiting Chiayi. This city is the gateway to the famous mountainous area with misty forests, and the starting point for most public buses and guided tours. I recommend spending at least a full day – or, if you have time to spare, staying overnight to catch the sunrise and sunset!
Although Chiayi is quieter than other Taiwanese cities, I suggest taking a day to leisurely explore its attractions. Visit Hinoki Village for Japanese-era buildings, charming cafes and souvenir shops, the unique outdoor installation Song of the Forest, Wenhua Night Market with Netflix-featured stores, as well as arts and cultural spots like Chiayi Art Museum, Chiayi Old Prison and the Museum of Old Taiwan Tiles. Don’t forget to give turkey rice a try. This local specialty is a simple yet delicious dish of rice topped with shredded turkey and drizzled with an aromatic sauce.
Known for: The gateway to the breathtaking Alishan National Scenic Area and popular for Netflix-featured local specialties like turkey rice
Top attractions: Alishan National Scenic Area; Wenhua Night Market; Hinoki Village; Chiayi Art Museum; Chiayi Old Prison; Museum of Old Taiwan Tiles; Song of the Forest
How long to spend: 2 days
How to get there: Take the THSR from Taipei Main Station to Chiayi Station, or the TRA if you’re coming from neighbouring cities.
5. Tainan
Tainan is the epitome of a laid-back city that doesn’t need to do much to keep you intrigued. Its charm lies in its slow pace, historic architecture and top-tier local food scene. Fill your itinerary with arts and cultural stops, such as Shennong Street, Tainan Art Museum, Chimei Museum and Tainan Confucius Temple. For souvenirs, Hayashi Department Store is a sprawling five-storey building with everything from snacks to designer clothing and home essentials.
Other historic sightseeing spots include Anping District with its bustling old street, heritage fort and treehouse, as well as the kid-friendly attraction, Ten Drums Cultural Village. If you’re a foodie like me, don’t sleep on Tainan Garden Night Market (it’s one of the island’s largest with nearly 400 stores) and the famous food street, Guo Hua Street. There’s a lot more to this city, so peek at my guide to the best things to do in Tainan!
Known for: The oldest Taiwanese city with historic architecture, temples and one of the best local food scenes
Top attractions: Tainan Art Museum; Chimei Museum; Tainan Confucius Temple; Hayashi Department Store; Tainan Garden Night Market
How long to spend: 2 to 3 days, especially if you’re a foodie!
How to get there: Take the THSR from Taipei Main Station to Tainan Station, or the TRA if you’re coming from neighbouring cities.
6. Kaohsiung
The south of Taiwan beckons with its sun-kissed port city, Kaohsiung. With a massive industrial port, it’s a busy city with roots as a manufacturing and shipbuilding hub. Besides being one of the best places for scenic harbour views, this city is also synonymous with a vibrant arts scene and historic landmarks like the Dome of Light (a public art installation spanning 660 square metres at Formosa Boulevard Station), Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, and the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas at Lotus Pond.
One of my personal favourite spots is Pier-2 Art Centre. A former warehouse district, it’s now an arts enclave with pop-up exhibitions, quirky outdoor sculptures and independent boutiques. If you can’t get enough of the sun and the sea, take a short five to 10-minute ferry ride from KW2 Wharf or Gushan Ferry Terminal to Cijin Island. This gorgeous island is home to Cijin Beach, where you can try surfing at Cijin Surf School & Inn, visit the historic Cijin Lighthouse and enjoy fresh seafood.
Known for: A sun-kissed port city in the South with a vibrant arts scene
Top attractions: Pier-2 Art Centre; Dragon and Tiger Pagodas; Liuhe and Ruifeng Night Markets; Dome of Light; Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum; Cijin Island
How long to spend: 2 to 3 days
How to get there: Take the THSR from Taipei Main Station to Zuoying Station, or the TRA if you’re coming from neighbouring cities.
7. Taitung
Slow down and hit reset at Taiwan’s southeastern coast city, Taitung. Akin to an unpolished gem, this coastal escape is perfect if you want to avoid cities overrun with tourists and bask in pristine nature. The city also has the highest concentration of indigenous people from tribes like Amis and Paiwan, so it’s your chance for cultural immersion.
Within Taitung’s city centre, top attractions include Taitung Forest Park with verdant cycling trails and Pipa Lake, and Tiehua Music Village (a nightlife and creative hub with live performances and craft markets). In the city’s northern region, stop by Chishang for its expansive rice paddy fields best explored on a bike, Sanxiantai (a scenic coastal area with an eight-arched bridge that resembles a dragon) and Xiaoyeliu for unique sandstone rock formations.
Known for: An unpolished coastal escape with breathtaking landscapes, rice paddies and rich indigenous culture
Top attractions: Taitung Forest Park; Tiehua Music Village; Chishang rice paddy fields; Sanxiatai; Xiaoyeliu
How long to spend: 2 to 3 days
How to get there: Take the TRA to various stops in Taitung, including Luye, Chishang and Ruisui
Whether you’re in the mood for vast natural landscapes, bustling metropolises, or slow-paced living, there’s a city for you in Taiwan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fastest way to travel between major cities in Taiwan?
The Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) is the fastest and most efficient way to travel along the western coast to major cities in Taiwan. With speeds up to 300 km per hour, the bullet train connects northern Taipei to southern Kaohsiung in under 100 minutes, and stops at major cities like Taichung and Chiayi. Tickets can be purchased online or at the stations.
How do I get to Taiwan’s scenic east coast destinations like Yilan and Taitung?
As the Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) only travels along the western coast, the Taiwan Railway (TRA) is an alternative that lets you reach eastern destinations like Yilan and Taitung. The TRA is older and runs at a lower speed compared to the THSR, but has more affordable ticket prices.
When should I choose inter-city buses over trains in Taiwan?
Taking inter-city buses is the best choice for budget-conscious travellers, or when heading to mountainous regions like Alishan and Sun Moon Lake, which the trains can’t reach. Operators like Ubus and King Bus offer affordable fares and comfortable amenities like massive reclining seats and USB ports.
Which Taiwanese cities are best for foodies and cultural history?
If you are travelling for food and heritage, Tainan and Taipei are my top recommendations. As Taiwan’s oldest city, Tainan offers rich historic landmarks and architecture, temples and one of the best local food scenes. Meanwhile, Taipei is an ideal complement as a metropolis with vibrant shopping streets, top restaurants, cafes and bars, and great connectivity.
How many days should I plan for an all-around Taiwan itinerary?
To experience a balanced mix of urban culture and nature across major cities like Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung and Taitung, I recommend an itinerary of at least 10 to 14 days. This allows you to spend at least two to three days in each city, while leaving time for inter-city travelling and rest between cities.
