Taiwan Travel Guide
Let’s dive into Taiwan! From buzzing night markets in Taipei to peaceful temples and jaw-dropping landscapes, there’s something on the itinerary for everyone. We’ll munch on amazing street food, soak up local traditions and check out quirky spots like Narrow Door Coffee Shop, as well as where to stay.
And if you’re after a rush, Taiwan’s festivals won’t disappoint. Take the Beehive Fireworks Festival – absolutely one of the most thrilling – and dangerous – festivals in the world, with thousands of fireworks blasting in every direction.
Whether you’re wandering the streets of Taichung or exploring Tainan, Taiwan’s mix of modern life, history and incredible festivals will keep you on your toes. Ready to see what makes this island so special? Let’s go!
Taiwan at a Glance
Capital: Taipei
Language: Mandarin (English widely spoken in tourist areas)
Population: 23.5 million
Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)
Time Zone: Taiwan Standard Time (TST), UTC +8
Religions: Buddhism, Taoism, Christianity, and others
Flag: Red background with a blue square in the upper left corner, featuring a white sun with twelve rays
Famous Festivals: Chinese New Year, Lantern Festival, Dragon Boat Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival
Major Exports: Electronics, machinery, petrochemicals, and textiles
Major Landmarks: Taipei 101, Taroko Gorge, and the National Palace Museum
What To Know Before You Go
Spring (Mar-May)
Spring in Taiwan is mild, with temperatures ranging from 18°C to 25°C (64°F to 77°F). It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities and sightseeing, as the weather is comfortable and the island is covered in lush greenery.
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Summer can get hot and humid, with temperatures reaching 30°C to 35°C (86°F to 95°F). It’s also the typhoon season, so be prepared for occasional storms, especially in coastal areas.
Autumn (Sep-Nov)
Autumn offers pleasant temperatures from 20°C to 28°C (68°F to 82°F), making it a great time for hiking and exploring the cities. The fall foliage is a stunning sight in the mountainous regions.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Winter is mild, especially in the south, with temperatures around 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F). In the north, it can get cooler, especially in mountainous areas, where it can dip to around 10°C (50°F). This is a good time to explore the cities and enjoy Taiwan’s hot springs.
Accommodation
Taiwan offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets. Budget hotels range from £20-£50 per night, mid-range options cost £50-£150, and luxury stays start at £150+. Prices in Taipei tend to be higher, while smaller cities and towns offer more affordable alternatives.
Food
Taiwan is famous for its street food, with meals costing around £1-£5. Mid-range restaurants typically charge £10-£20 per person, while upscale dining in cities like Taipei can cost £30+. Alcohol is relatively affordable, with beer prices ranging from £2-£5.
Transportation
Public transportation in Taiwan is efficient and affordable, with metro and bus fares in cities like Taipei costing between £0.50-£1.50. Taxis start around £2, and ride-hailing services like Uber are available, though a bit more expensive. Renting a motorbike costs around £8-£15 per day, while car rentals range from £30-£60 per day.
Activities
Taiwan offers many free attractions such as night markets, temples, and hiking trails. Popular activities like visiting the Taroko Gorge or the National Palace Museum typically range from £5-£20. Adventure activities, including surfing or paragliding, can cost £30-£100, while private tours or luxury experiences may exceed £200.
Currency
Taiwan uses the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). Cash is commonly used, especially for smaller purchases, so it’s advisable to have some on hand.
ATMs & Cards
ATMs are widely available in major cities and tourist spots. Most businesses accept credit and debit cards, though smaller shops may prefer cash. It’s a good idea to carry a travel card or local bank card for convenience.
Tipping
Tipping is not common in Taiwan and is not expected in most situations. However, for excellent service, small tips are appreciated—around NT$50-NT$100 for a taxi driver or hotel porter. Some upscale restaurants may include a service charge, but additional tipping is generally unnecessary.
Public Transport
Taiwan has an excellent public transport system, including the MRT (metro) in major cities like Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung, as well as buses and high-speed rail (HSR) that connects major cities. MRT fares are affordable, and you can easily top up an EasyCard for convenient travel.
Taxis & Ride-Hailing
Taxis are readily available, though they are more expensive than public transport. Ride-hailing services like Uber are also available in major cities.
Bikes
Taiwan is bike-friendly, with many cities offering bike-sharing schemes. You can rent bikes for short trips and explore the city or nearby scenic spots.
Car Rental
Renting a car can be a good option if you plan to visit more remote or rural areas, though driving in the city may not be necessary due to efficient public transport.
Vaccinations
There are no specific vaccinations required for travel to Taiwan, but it’s a good idea to be up to date on routine vaccinations like measles, mumps, rubella, and tetanus.
Travel First Aid
It’s always useful to carry a small travel first aid kit with essentials like pain relievers, rehydration salts, and any prescription medications.
Mosquito Protection
While Taiwan isn’t known for major mosquito-borne diseases, it’s still a good idea to use repellent, especially in rural areas or near water.
Water Safety
Tap water is generally safe to drink, but if you’re uncertain or staying in rural areas, bottled or filtered water is a safer option.
Sun Protection
The sun can be strong, especially during the summer months. Carry sunscreen, wear a hat, and use sunglasses to protect yourself from UV rays.
Prescription Medications
Bring enough prescription medications for the duration of your trip, along with a copy of your prescription, especially if you’re travelling for an extended period.
Local Pharmacies
Pharmacies are widely available and well-stocked, and many carry both local and international brands of over-the-counter medication.
Emergency Numbers
Emergency services in Taiwan can be reached at 110 for police and 119 for fire or medical emergencies.
Pack for the Weather
Taiwan’s weather can vary from hot and humid in summer to mild in winter, so pack layers and a light jacket. Consider an umbrella or raincoat, especially during the summer typhoon season.
Stay Hydrated
Due to Taiwan’s warm climate, it’s important to stay hydrated. Carry a reusable water bottle, especially when exploring outdoor areas.
Respect Local Customs
Dress modestly when visiting temples and religious sites. Be respectful of local traditions, especially when participating in local ceremonies or festivals.
Cash & Cards
While cards are widely accepted in cities, many small shops, restaurants, and markets prefer cash. Keep some small denominations on hand for purchases.
Use Trusted Transport
In cities, public transport is very efficient, but taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber are also reliable for getting around. Be cautious about unlicensed taxis.
Try the Food Safely
Taiwan is famous for its street food, but be cautious if you have a sensitive stomach. Choose busy stalls with high turnover, and avoid foods that may not be freshly prepared.
Learn Basic Mandarin Phrases
Mandarin is the official language, but many people in tourist areas also speak English. Learning a few basic phrases, like “Xie xie” (thank you) and “Ni hao” (hello), can help with communication.
Stay Connected
Getting a local SIM card or portable Wi-Fi device will help you stay connected for navigation and communication during your trip.
Travel Insurance is Essential
Make sure your travel insurance covers health, theft, and cancellations. It’s always good to have coverage in case of emergencies.
