Taiwan
Taiwan means everything to me.
Not just because of my Taiwanese roots, but because I once lived in Kaohsiung for two years to study Chinese — and my family still has deep ties to Taipei.
Even though Taiwan is a small island, it offers a huge variety of experiences. One day you could be devouring mouthwatering street food at a night market, and the next, hiking misty mountain trails or discovering Japanese-era architecture in a quiet town.
Museums, art, temples, tea houses, cities on the west coast, peaceful mountains, and stunning seas on the east — it’s all here.
Taiwan blends rich cultural history with the ease of modern travel. It’s one of the few places where you can hop on a high-speed train, explore coastal villages, and still be back in the city by dinnertime.
In this ultimate guide, I’ll show you what makes Taiwan so special — from city-by-city breakdowns to transportation tips, itinerary ideas, and personal recommendations from my own travels as a Taiwanese-American. Whether you’re planning your very first trip or coming back for more, you’ll find everything you need to explore Taiwan deeply and meaningfully.
This post contains affiliate links, meaning EVERLASTYING will earn a commission if you purchase through our link at no extra cost. Read my disclosure for more information. I appreciate your support 🤍
City guides
Hover a dot to explore
Weather in Taiwan 台灣天氣
Know before you go 出發前須知
Time zone
UTC +8
No daylight saving, so the time never changes.
Language
Mandarin
The official language, plus Taiwanese (台語), Hakka (客家話), and Japanese among older generations. English is common in cities, rarer in rural areas.
Currency
NT Dollar
New Taiwan Dollar (NT / NTD / TWD), and prices include all taxes. You can bring up to NTD 100,000 (~USD 3,000) in cash without declaring it. Learn more
Tipping
Not expected
Fine dining may add a 10–15% service charge. Hotel cleaners love a little extra.
Driving
Drive on the right
Bring your passport, home license, and an International Driving Permit. US travelers can get one through AAA.
Plan your trip 計劃你的旅程
Safety
Very safe, even solo
Just keep an eye on your things like you would anywhere else.
SIM cards + WiFi
Getting connected is easy
- eSIM: grab one through Airalo before you fly. It works the moment you land.
- Physical SIM: Chunghwa, Taiwan Mobile, or FarEasTone counters at Taoyuan Airport (TPE).
- Free WiFi: cafés, malls, MRT stations, and convenience stores.
- Your plan: check roaming first. AT&T charges $12/day.
Plugs
Type A + B · 110V
Same as the US, so leave the adapter at home.
The latest posts
The Do’s and Don’ts in Taiwan
Planning a trip to Taiwan? Before you go, brush up on key etiquette tips to avoid awkward moments and engage yourself in local culture. From dining dos to temple taboos, this guide has you covered! 🏮🇹🇼
【臺南】Tainan City Guide
Tainan is Taiwan's oldest city and its food capital. Here's where to eat, what to see, and what to order before you leave.
10 Best Places to Visit in Taiwan
From the lantern-lit streets of Jiufen to the serene beauty of Sun Moon Lake, your next adventure in Taiwan starts here! ✨🌏
Taiwan Travel Itinerary
Planning a trip to Taiwan? Discover the best of this vibrant country with my expertly crafted itinerary. From busy cities to peaceful landscapes, I've got you covered.
【嘉義】Chiayi Travel Guide
Chiayi might be underrated, but it’s packed with iconic food (&tea!), scenic hikes, and easy access to Alishan. This Chiayi travel guide covers what to eat, explore, and know before you go.
Taiwan Transportation Guide
Confused about getting around Taiwan? Whether it’s riding the HSR, cruising on mopeds, or bus-hopping, this Taiwan Transportation Guide breaks it all down.
Taiwan Packing Guide
Packing for Taiwan can be tricky — one minute it’s hot and humid, the next you’re reaching for a jacket! This Taiwan Packing List covers everything you’ll need for Fall and Winter, so you can travel light, stress less, and still look cute. 😉
【台灣台鐵】Taiwan Railway Guide
Planning to ride Taiwan Railway but not sure how tickets work? This beginner-friendly TRA guide covers how to book Taiwan Railway tickets online, what to expect onboard, and smart tips to avoid booking mistakes.