7 Best Places to Visit in Taiwan
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!
✨ PRO TIP: Book your tours and experiences ahead to skip the lines and make the most of your trip!
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🏮 Jiufen, New Taipei City -
mountain town with teahouses & narrow streets.
🌇 Taipei City -
city adventures, night markets, and iconic landmarks.
🌇 Taichung City -
Artsy neighborhoods, food, and hidden gems
🏮 Lukang Old Street, Changhua County -
Step back in time in this historic town.
🌊 Sun Moon Lake, Nantou County -
Scenic lake views & indigenous cultural experience
⛰️ Chiayi -
Gateway to Alishan’s mountain trails & stunning sunrise spots
🌇 Kaohsiung City -
Harbor City with street art, local artists, and must-try eats
Northern Taiwan
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!
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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!
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Chic yet cozy with stunning mountain & ocean views
TWILIGHT FOREST
Aesthetic, forest-y and cozy stay
YUNZAIFANG B&B
Cozy B&B just a few minutes’ walk from Jiufen Old Street with great mountain views
💡 TIP: Jiufen stays book fast, especially on weekends & holidays — book early to secure your favorite stay!
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BUS
Budget-friendly but slower
PRIVATE DRIVER
Fast & convenient, which is perfect for maximizing your day in Jiufen!
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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.
Taipei City
Staying at the Shangri-La Far Eastern in 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!
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Stunning and iconic city views at the top
SONGSHAN CULTURE & CREATIVE PARK
Wander through Taipei’s “creative hub,” with art exhibits, indie shops, and cozy cafés.
Home to one of the world’s largest collections of Chinese art and artifacts — history fanatics will lose hours here.
Taste Taipei’s best bites — pepper buns, bubble tea, and endless Taiwanese street food classics.
➯ Book a walking food tour (and come hungry!)
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Luxury with unbeatable Taipei 101 views.
Grand Hotel Taipei
Historic 14-story landmark hotel dating back to 1952.
Hamp Court Palace
European-inspired elegance, newly opened in 2021.
💡 TIP: Hotels and Airbnbs in Taipei book up quickly — especially on weekends and holidays. Don’t wait to grab your stay!
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Spring (March–May), fall (October–December), and winter (January–February).
For a bucket-list experience: visit during the holidays and ring in the new year with Taipei 101’s legendary fireworks.
Central Taiwan
Taichung City
Fazi Riverway in Taichung
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 think of visiting during 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!
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🍦 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.
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.
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INTERCONTINENTAL TAICHUNG
Newly opened and already iconic, with jaw-dropping architecture and luxury comfort.
CHECK INN TAICHUNG ZHONGSHAN
Affordable, modern, and perfectly located near shopping areas + transportion.
Luxury hot spring resort experience you’ll never forget.
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Spring, fall, and winter! November is perfect for mild weather, while December brings festive vibes.
Lukang Old Street, Changhua County
This historic port town is dripping with old historical vibes — think lantern-lit streets, decorated temples, and traditional snacks that taste like Taiwan’s past. Wander the car-free alleys, dive into different food stalls, and feel the cultural atmosphere of central Taiwan.
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✨ 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
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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
💡 TIP: Accommodations in Lukang are limited, so if you’re eyeing a weekend visit, book early before spots sell out!
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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!
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 was 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!
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🚴 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.
🌄 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.
🚗 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!
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Fluer de Chine Hotel
Luxury with sustainable features and 360-degree views of Sun Moon Lake.
The Lalu Hotel
A luxurious and historical hotel with traditional Zen-style architecture.
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!
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November to April offers the most comfortable weather and fewer crowds — plan early to get the best accommodations and tours.
Southern Taiwan
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.
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Explore Alishan National Forest Recreation Park
Purchase tickets to head inside and discover the 5 wonders of Alishan — the sunrise, sea of clouds, sunset, forest, and forest railway
ALISHAN DAY TOUR FROM CHIAYI, KAOHSIUNG OR TAICHUNG
Book an Alishan Day Tour so you don’t have to worry too much about planning the logistics!
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A cozy B&B with stunning serene mountain views
Modern comfort with excellent amenities
Unique hotel design in the mountains and premium service
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ALISHAN FOREST RAILWAY
Ride the Alishan Forest Railway for a striking and historic experience
For a more affordable option, you can ride the bus
If you’re confident driving on winding mountain roads, you can rent a car to go up the mountains
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November to April, when the weather is cool and clear.
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Kaohsiung City
View of the city and infinity pool at TAi Urban Resort in Kaohsiung
I’ve been so thankful for living in Taiwan for two years; during those two years, 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, great big night markets, and many shopping spots, there is so much to do and so little time!
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PIER 2 ART CENTER
A creative spot with murals, art exhibitions, ESLITE bookstore, and unique shops
DRAGON AND TIGER PAGODAS
For an in-depth experience of Kaohsiung
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Modern luxury and prime location
A sophisticated, high-end stay
A cozy yet stylish option for city travelers
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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.
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Fall (October to November) and Spring (February to April) for pleasant weather.
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check out my Taiwan travel vlog
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Last Updated: 09.17.2025
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