10 Best Places to Visit in Taiwan

Guide
Written By Melinda
HOSHINOYA Guguan luxury hot spring resort in Taichung surrounded by lush mountains

HOSHINOYA Guguan in Taichung

Taiwan is a beautiful country with a perfect blend of cityscapes, rich history, mouthwatering cuisine, and breathtaking scenery, from mountains to the sparkling blue seas. 

Whether it’s your first time planning your visit or coming back for more adventures, I’ve put together a list of my personal favorite unique spots to help you discover the best that Taiwan has to offer. 

From hidden gems to iconic must-visit spots, here are my top seven must-visit spots in Taiwan you won’t want to miss when you’re visiting!

View Taiwan Travel Guide

Northern Taiwan

Iconic A-Mei Teahouse glowing with lanterns at night in Jiufen, a charming mountain village near Taipei

Jiufen, New Taipei City

I visited Jiufen as a kid, but I didn’t even remember it — so revisiting it with my partner was a dream come true!

This historic mountain town is packed with gold-mining history, delicious street food, and quaint shops. At night, the lantern-lit streets and the iconic A-Mei Teahouse will make you feel like you’re being transported straight into a Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away vibe — pure magic!

    • EXPLORE JIUFEN OLD STREET

      Stroll the old street, browse cute shops, and taste Taiwanese favorites like taro balls and stinky tofu.

    • AFTERNOON TEA AT A-MEI TEAHOUSE

      Perfect for tea lovers, Taiwanese snacks, and amazing photo ops of the ocean in the background

    • HALF-DAY GUIDED TOUR

      Don’t want to do the planning or logistics? Let someone do it for you!

  • 💡 TIP: Jiufen stays book fast, especially on weekends & holidays — book early to secure your favorite stay!

  • Spring or autumn (March - April, November - December).

    Visit early (10 AM–Noon) for fewer crowds, or in the evening for the enchanting lantern-lit atmosphere.

Shangri-La Far Eastern Hotel in Taipei featuring a luxurious room view of the iconic Taipei 101

Staying at the Shangri-La Far Eastern in Taipei City

Taipei City

There’s an endless amount of things to do in Taipei City, and each time I go back, there’s more to discover!

You can shop, eat at cute cafes, dine in stunning city-view restaurants, and find local eats that are to die for — many aren’t even on Google Maps! You can also explore endlessly or chill at a park if you need some time away from the city. There are tons of activities and night markets to explore, and you’ll never run out of things to do!

Eastern Taiwan

Hualien County

My first time visiting Hualien was an elementary school bike camp — where we biked into the mountains, and at night I saw fireflies for the first time. I thought it was incredible even then.

Many years later as an adult, my friends visiting from the UK put Taroko Gorge on their must-see list, and I realized I hadn't actually been back as an adult and saw the beauty on their Instagram stories, which made me want to plan another trip to visit.

Earlier this year on a ride to the train station after celebrating New Year's in Taiwan, our driver happened to be from Hualien — he had so much to say about it that it got me even more excited to go.

When I finally returned, even for a short stay, I fell in love with the nature and the views. It really hit me: Taiwan has cities on the west coast, and on the east, it's all mountains, nature, and sea.

    • Taroko Gorge
      Dramatic marble canyon and one of Taiwan's most iconic natural landmarks

    • Dashibi Hill Trail
      Short coastal hike with sweeping 360° views of the Pacific

    • Slow down in nature
      Hualien's pace is different — mountains, coastline, and quiet are the main draw

  • Renting a car is the easiest way to get between spots — Hualien is spread out. Biking is also a great, casual way to explore closer to town.

  • October to November and March to April.

    These months are on the cooler side that are still dry enough to avoid the rain.

Taitung County

Taitung, surprisingly, was never on my original bucket list — it was a friend's recommendation that changed that. She'd visited with her family on a big group trip and showed me photos of the dragon bridge leading to Sanxiantai, and I was amazed.

When I finally went myself in January, the weather was actually pretty cold, but Taitung was still incredible. The waves at the coast were massive and crashing hard — not great for swimming, but stunning to watch.

    • Sanxiantai
      Iconic arched dragon bridge leading to a small island, one of Taitung's most photographed spots

    • Torik Beach
      Also known as Duli Beach, famous for its "Sky Mirror" effect at low tide and a popular surf spot

    • Xiaoyeliu
      Coastal rock formations shaped by erosion, a quieter alternative to Yeliu in the north

  • Grand Hotel Lili

  • Best to rent a car — Taitung is remote and spread out, with public transportation limited between attractions.

  • March to June and October to November — less rain, milder winds, and more comfortable temps (avoid January, which can get surprisingly cold and windy on the coast).

Central Taiwan

The serene Fazi Riverway in Taichung City

Fazi Riverway in Taichung

Taichung City

My parents recently moved to Taichung, and I never visited until they settled there. To be frank, I fell in love right away! Taichung is a place that not many people consider visiting on their first trip to Taiwan, and they’re missing out.

The weather is amazing — better than Taipei and Kaohsiung — with sunny days and a nice ocean breeze to cool you off in summer or fall. With nearby mountains for quick escapes, tons of history, delicious food, and incredible shopping, you’ll never be bored. I highly recommend adding Taichung to your travel plans!

  • 🍦 MIYAHARA

    Once an old ophthalmology clinic, now a whimsical dessert wonderland. Famous for its Harry Potter–like interior, pineapple cakes, and ice cream towers that draw lines out the door.

    🪻 LAVENDER COTTAGE

    Tucked in the mountains, this dreamy flower farm is perfect for couples, friends, or anyone who needs a magical escape. The lavender fields and cute cafés make it Instagram gold 🌿✨

    ➯ Get your Lavender Cottage tickets here!

    💡 TIP: Lavender blooms are seasonal (winter), so plan ahead — tickets can sell out fast when fields are in peak bloom!

    ♨️ GUGUAN

    A hidden gem in the mountains where you can soak in natural hot springs surrounded by lush forest views. It’s less crowded than Beitou and feels more like a secret retreat.

    ➯ Book a hot spring stay at Hoshinoya Guguan

  • While Taichung only has one MRT line… Buses, taxis, trains, and YouBikes still make getting around easy.

  • Spring, fall, and winter! November is perfect for mild weather, while December brings festive vibes.

Historic Lukang Temple in Changhua County

Lukang Old Street, Changhua County

Lukang, a historic port town, is dripping with old historical vibes — imagine lantern-lit streets, decorated temples, and traditional snacks that taste like Taiwan’s past. Wander around the car-free alleys, dive into different food stalls, and feel the cultural atmosphere of central Taiwan.

  • ✨ VISIT LUKANG MAZU TEMPLE

    One of Taiwan’s most famous Mazu temples is filled with stunning architecture, incense, and centuries of history. A must for culture lovers.

    ICONIC TAIWANESE SNACKS

    Don’t miss oyster omelets (蚵仔煎), shrimp rolls, and buttery pineapple cakes (鳳梨酥) — best enjoyed fresh on the street.

    LUKANG DAY TOUR

    Join a Lukang day tour and discover the iconic historical spot

    ➯ Book your day tour here

  • Lukang Old Street No. 13 B&B (鹿港老街十三號民宿)

    Cute and cozy B&B stay that’s nearby Lukang Old Street and yummy restaurants

    ➯ Book your stay here

    💡 TIP: Accommodations in Lukang are limited, so if you’re eyeing a weekend visit, book early before spots sell out!

  • October to April are the best time to visit! 🌤️

    If you want to avoid large crowds, weekdays are better. However, if you’re looking for the full busy market experience, definitely check it out on the weekends! 

Scenic view of Sun Moon Lake in Nantou, Taiwan, with boat on the water, surrounded by mountains, perfect for biking and day tours.

Sun Moon Lake, Nantou County

Sun Moon Lake is a stunning lake shaped like a sun and a crescent moon from above, located in Nantou County. When I visited with my partner and parents, I felt like I was floating — it’s beautiful!

Biking around the lake, taking in the breathtaking scenery, savoring delicious street food, and exploring the area made for an unforgettable day. Plus, it’s one of the great places to fly your drone!

  • 🚴 BIKE AROUND THE LAKE

    The lakeside biking trail is iconic and a must-do for every visitor. Don’t miss the stunning views!

    ➯ Rent bikes here before they’re gone!

    ⛴️ RIDE THE BOAT

    Hop on the boat to visit different piers, temples, and pagodas — the easiest way to see it all.

    ➯ Buy your boat ticket now

    🌄 SUN MOON LAKE & CINGJING FARM DAY TOUR

    Experience all the iconic spots in Sun Moon Lake and then head to Cingjing Farm in a single day — perfect for those wanting a full, hassle-free adventure.

    ➯ Book your tour today!

    🚗 PRIVATE ONE-DAY TOUR FROM TAIPEI

    If you’re in Taipei City and want to visit Sun Moon Lake privately, you can experience the best spots here on this tour!

    ➯ Book your private tour now!

  • Fluer de Chine Hotel

    Luxury with sustainable features and 360-degree views of Sun Moon Lake.

    ➯ Book your stay here

    The Lalu Hotel

    A luxurious and historical hotel with traditional Zen-style architecture.

    ➯ Book your stay today

    Hu Yue Lake View Hotel

    It's in the best location, right by the Ita Thao District and right in front of one of the wharves!

    ➯ Book your stay here

  • November to April offers the most comfortable weather and fewer crowds — plan early to get the best accommodations and tours.

Southern Taiwan

breathtaking sunrise views of a sea of clouds in Chiayi

Chiayi

If you’re a nature lover, Chiayi is a dream destination!

This area is best known as the gateway to Alishan National Forest Recreation Park. It offers stunning mountain views and serene landscapes — the perfect escape from Taiwan's busy cities.

TAi Urban Resort in Kaohsiung with a stunning infinity pool view of the city skyline at night

View of the city and infinity pool at TAi Urban Resort in Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung City

I’ve been so thankful to have lived in Taiwan for two years; during that time, I was actually in Kaohsiung! I recently revisited Kaohsiung and saw how the city itself has changed so much.

From stunning architecture to amazing places to explore, revisiting the big night markets that I once went to as a kid, and many shopping spots, there is so much to do and so little time!

    • MRT

      Convenient and affordable, perfect for getting around the city.

    • LIGHT RAIL TRANSIT (LRT)

      Covers tourist hotspots and connects to Kaohsiung Airport.

    • YOUBIKES

      An eco-friendly way to explore.

    • UBER AND TAXIS

      Readily available for quick trips.

  • Fall (October to November) and Spring (February to April) for pleasant weather.

Kenting, Pingtung County

I first visited Kenting as a kid with family and family friends, playing on the beach without fully appreciating it yet.

Revisiting years later with my partner and friends, I finally got it — swimming in Baishawan Beach's clear blue water for half an hour before heading back to Kaohsiung was incredible. We got some sun, the water was warm without being too warm, and it was easily one of my favorite beach days in Taiwan.

Give yourself more than two days here if you can.

    • Baishawan Beach (White Sand Bay)
      Powdery white sand and clear water, perfect for swimming and snorkeling

    • Surfing
      Kenting is Taiwan's top surf spot, with breaks suited for beginners and experienced surfers alike

    • Beach hopping
      Kenting has several beaches within a short drive, each with its own vibe

    • SkyeBay Club Kenting
      Boutique beachfront stay near Baishawan Beach with a laid-back resort feel

    • Tuscany Resort
      Italian-inspired villas with pools, great for a romantic getaway

    • Gloria Manor
      Classic resort-style stay close to Kenting's main strip

  • Rent a scooter or car — Kenting is spread out, and the beaches, night market, and national park entrances aren't realistically walkable between

  • November to April for the driest, most pleasant weather.

    It's technically a year-round beach destination, but visiting outside typhoon season (roughly July - September) means fewer weather disruptions and more consistent beach days.

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Last Updated: 08.21.2026

Melinda https://www.everlastying.com
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