Why visit Taiwan?
Gorges of taroko to the forests ofAlishanbeaches of Kenting at the night markets TaipeiTaiwan combines nature, food culture, and ultra-easy city travel. A dense rail network, cleanliness, safety, and bilingual signage make travel seamless.
Even though we didn't see even a quarter of what I mentioned above, our little getaway won me over with its potential. It's beautiful, with a perfect blend of modernity and tradition.
In short, Taiwan is a diverse and accessible destination.
Note that much of the information in this practical guide is already mentioned in my article summarizing our stay in Taiwan (see here).
- Stunning landscapes, blending sea and mountains.
- Easy to organize your stay on site.
- Street food was very much present
- Balance between modernity and traditions
- The welcome wasn't particularly memorable (even though the experience was limited to the north).
- Not exactly cheap
- Short stays (French, etc.) : exemption of up to 90 days upon arrival, passport valid for 6 months min.
- Longer (studies, work, internships): visa to be requested before departure (type depending on reason).
- Onward ticket (exit ticket) and proof ofan accommodation may be required at the checkpoint.
- Insurance : recommended (high private medical costs).
Procedure — entry without a visa (≤ 90 days)
- Check theeligibility (French passport generally OK) and the validity (≥ 6 months after arrival).
- Prepare return ticket / continuation, accommodation address (1st night), and sufficient funds.
- At the arrival : exemption stamp (exact duration indicated). Keep the receipt if given.
Extensions: the exemption is in principle not extendable To stay longer, you need a suitable visa.
Visitor visa (for stays > 90 days or ineligible)
- Or : representative office/consulate before departure.
- Type : visit, studies, business, family (depending on the reason).
- Standard documents passport (6 months), form, photo, itinerary, supporting documents (invitation, registration, etc.).
- Cost : variables depending on nationality/type; expect ≈ €45–90 for information.
Useful special cases
Visa-free transit: possible via international airports (without leaving the zone), depending on the route/airline.
Work/Internships: require a license + adapted visa/ARC (steps to anticipate).
Multiple inputs: The exemption is not automatically "cumulative"; check the conditions if regional round trips.
Express FAQ
How long before applying for a visa? 3–6 weeks comfort depending on type.
Can I change my design on site? No, plan for it good visa upstream.
Do you need proof of financial means? Sometimes requested (statements/card limit).
Minor children? Individual passport; parental authorizations if travelling without both parents.
Climate:
Taiwan combines a climate subtropical to the north and tropical in the south, with strong variations between coastal plains and mountains (Alishan, Hehuanshan).
- North (Taipei, Keelung) : cooler and wetter winters under the influence of the northeast monsoon (November → March).
- Central & Western (Taichung, Nantou) : more sheltered, generally drier than the north for a good part of the year.
- South (Tainan, Kaohsiung, Kenting) : warm all year round, with a pronounced dry season in winter.
- East (Hualien, Taitung) : coastal, more exposed to orographic rainfall and typhoons.
- Rains of "plums" (méiyǔ / 梅雨) : showers and rain fronts from early May to late June (intensity varies from year to year).
- Typhoon season : Above all July → October (pics in August–September) with possible strong winds and transport disruptions.
- Heat & humidity : marked with June to September (perceived height in the plains).
- Mountains : temperature drops sharply with altitude; sea of clouds frequent in Alishan; possible frosts on the highest peaks in winter.
Best time to visit Taiwan
There isn't just "one" good window, but several options depending on your priorities:
- October → early December : the most weather stable (after typhoon season), pleasant temperatures, good visibility in the mountains.
- March → April : spring mild and flowery (cherry trees at altitude), a few showers possible.
- Winter (December → February) : period drier in the south (Kenting, Tainan, Kaohsiung); to the north, cooler and wetter weather.
- Avoid if possible : end of May → June (Meiyu rains) and August–September if you are very weather-sensitive (potential typhoons).
To give you an idea, you will see the weather changed very much from day to day by reading my articles (see below), knowing that we were there in April.
Tip: For an islands + mountains loop, choose autumn (Oct.–Nov.); for culture & gastronomy without the heat, choose March–April or November.
| Region / Month | Jan. | Feb. | Mars | Apr. | Mai | June | Jul. | August | Sept. | Oct. | Nov. | Dec. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| North part | OK, fresh | OK, fresh | mixed | Ideal | mixed | To avoid | mixed | To avoid | To avoid | Ideal | mixed | OK, fresh |
| West-Central | Ideal | Ideal | Ideal | Ideal | mixed | mixed | mixed | To avoid | mixed | Ideal | Ideal | Ideal |
| South | Ideal | Ideal | Ideal | Very hot | mixed | mixed | mixed | To avoid | To avoid | Ideal | Ideal | Ideal |
| East | mixed | mixed | mixed | Ideal | To avoid | To avoid | mixed | To avoid | To avoid | mixed | mixed | mixed |
1) North: Taipei, volcanic mountains & coastal villages
A vibrant and contrasting capital, Taipei blends modern districts, active temples, leading museums and a street food scene among the best in Asia.
In less than an hour, you'll find yourself in a completely different atmosphere: hot springs of Beitou ou Wulaivolcanic landscapes and fumaroles of the Yangmingshan, then lantern-lit alleyways of Jiufen and large waterfalls around conseridableAn ideal region to discover the diversity of Taiwan without straying too far from the capital.
Taipei
A dense but pleasant capital city to live in, between skyscrapers, temples, night markets and hidden cafes.
Things to see in town
- Taipei 101 – former tallest tower in the world, panoramic view (observatory & Elephant Mountain combo).
- Chiang Kai-shek Memorial – large esplanade, monumental architecture, changing of the guard.
- Temples - Longshan, Xingtiansmall neighborhood temples around Dadaocheng.
- National Palace Museum – major collections of imperial Chinese art.
- Neighborhoods - Daan (parks, cafes), Ximending (young people, shops, neon lights).
Atmosphere & food
- Night markets – Shilin (the most well-known), Raohe, Ningxia for street food.
- Cafes & small restaurants – numerous spots to take breaks between visits.
Recommended time: 2 to 3 days. for a first stay.
Hot springs & mountains (Beitou, Wulai, Yangmingshan)
Just a few dozen minutes from the centre, you can reach the baths and the hills.
Beitou
- Public & private thermal baths – hot baths easily accessible by MRT.
- Geothermal valley – steam, very hot milky waters.
- Small bathhouse museum – for the historical aspect.
Wulai
- Village in the valley, more natural atmosphere.
- Hot baths along the river.
- Opportunities for short hikes and to see waterfalls.
Yangmingshan
- National park accessible by bus from Taipei.
- Fumaroles, sulfurous soils and remnants of volcanic activity.
- Hiking trails, viewpoints, sakura and flowers depending on the season.
Recommended time: 1 day for an excursion, 2 if you combine several zones.
Northeast coast: Jiufen & Shifen
A classic excursion from Taipei, between sea, hills and old mining towns, a change of scenery just one hour from Taipei.
Jiufen & surroundings
- Jiufen – narrow alleyways, staircases, red lanterns, houses clinging to the hillside.
- Views of the sea and surrounding hills.
- Small tea rooms with panoramic views.
Shifen & Pingxi Valley
- Shifen Waterfall – large waterfall, easy walk.
- Railway tracks in the middle of the village, lanterns (beware of the very touristy aspect).
- Other small villages along the Pingxi line to vary the atmosphere a bit.
Recommended time: 1 day (Jiufen + Shifen), or even 2 if you like to take your time.
2) Center: Taichung, Sun Moon Lake & Alishan Forests
Central Taiwan blends a creative city with forested mountains. Taichung, you will find contemporary architecture, artistic districts and lively night markets.
Moving inwards, the Sun Moon Lake It offers boat trips, scenic cycling trails, and temples on the hills. Higher still, the forests ofAlishan and its famous sunrise over a "sea of clouds" are among the most iconic landscapes in the country.
Taichung
A large, pleasant city, less dense than Taipei, with a real cultural scene.
To have
- National Taichung Theater – architecture by Toyo Ito, very photogenic.
- Rainbow Village – small, colorful neighborhood, wall decorations.
- Urban parks and shopping districts for strolling.
Nighttime atmosphere
- Fengjia Night Market – one of the largest night markets in Taiwan.
Recommended time: 1 to 2 days., often as a stopover on the way to Sun Moon Lake.
Sun Moon Lake
Mountain lake surrounded by wooded hills, perfect for slowing down the pace a little.
Things to see / things to do
- Boat tour of the lake – stop in some piers/villages.
- Cycle path – cycle paths offering beautiful viewpoints.
- Temples – for example Wenwu Temple, perched above the lake.
- Viewpoints – platforms and hills accessible by cable car or road.
Recommended time: 1 to 2 days. at your own pace.
Alishan
A mountain resort famous for its little train and its sunrises.
Things to see / things to do
- Sunrise train – very early departure to see the sun rise over a “sea of clouds” (when conditions permit).
- Cypress forest – paths laid out among large, old trees.
- Walks around the various stations of the small mountain railway network.
Recommended time: 1 night on site to enjoy the sunrise without having to rush.
3) East: Hualien, Taroko Gorge & Wild Coast
Taiwan's eastern coastline is the most spectacular: mountains plunging into the Pacific, agricultural valleys, and long stretches of coastline that remain largely undeveloped. Around Hualien Taroko Gorge are a must-see: marble cliffs, turquoise rivers, tunnels carved into the rock and suspension bridges.
Going down towards TaitungThe road alternates between beaches, cliffs and small villages like Dulanprized for their laid-back atmosphere, art, surfing and a slower pace of travel.
Hualien & Taroko Gorge
A convenient base for exploring Taroko National Park.
taroko
- Taroko Gorges – spectacular road at the bottom of the valley.
- Trails (depending on opening times) – Shakadang, Baiyang, Zhuilu, short walks and viewpoints.
- Marble cliffs, turquoise rivers, tunnels and suspension bridges.
Around Hualien
- Qingshui Cliffs – a bird's-eye view of the Pacific Ocean.
- Opportunities for walks on the coast or in the agricultural hinterland.
Recommended time: 2 to 3 days. to combine Hualien + Taroko.
East Coast & Taitung (Dulan, surfing & slow travel)
A quieter part of the coast, ideal for slowing down.
Between Hualien & Taitung
- Coastal road with views of cliffs and small coves.
- Agricultural valleys, scattered villages and a few pebble beaches.
Around Taitung
- Dulan – relaxed atmosphere, art workshops, cafes.
- Surfing and swimming spots (depending on conditions).
- Departure point to some islands (Green Island, Orchid Island).
Recommended time: 2 to 3 days. if you like to travel slowly.
4) South: Urban Kaohsiung & Kenting Park Beaches
Southern Taiwan combines a large port city with a tropical atmosphere. KaohsiungRedeveloped old docks, urban art, temples and night markets make for a very pleasant stopover.
Further south, the Kenting National Park unfolds beaches (Baisha, Nanwan…), coves, coastal paths aroundEluanbi and fossil coral formations. This is the part of the island where people come mainly for the sea, snorkeling, water sports and a few days of relaxation in a warmer climate.
Kaohsiung
A large port city that has successfully converted its old docks into creative spaces.
To have
- Pier-2 Art Center – port wastelands transformed into a cultural zone.
- lotuspond – temples, pagodas and statues by the water.
- Love River – a pleasant walk at the end of the day.
Nighttime atmosphere
- Night markets (e.g. Liuhe) for street food.
Recommended time: 1 to 2 days..
Kenting National Park
Southern tip of Taiwan, warmer climate and very present seaside.
Things to see / things to do
- Beaches – Baisha, Nanwan, small coves depending on the weather and the season.
- Coastal paths around'Eluanbi – Fossil coral landscapes and ocean views.
- Snorkeling, water sports and relaxation according to your desires.
Recommended time: 2 to 3 days. to enjoy without rushing.
5) Islands: Penghu, Green Island & Orchid Island
The islands of Taiwan offer yet another change of scenery: volcanic or basalt landscapes, fishing villages, almost empty coastal roads and very beautiful spots for diving or snorkeling.
They require a bit more logistics (ferries or domestic flights), but offer a very different side of the country, from windswept archipelagos to penghu and more tropical islands like Green island ou Orchid island.
penghu
Archipelago off the west coast, known for its winds, beaches and basalt formations.
Things to see / things to do
- Basalt columns – dark rock cliffs with geometric shapes.
- Beaches and small coves, depending on the season and the weather.
- Fishing villages and traditional stone houses.
Recommended time: 2 to 3 days..
Green Island (Lùdao)
Small volcanic island off the coast of Taitung, renowned for diving and hot springs.
Things to see / things to do
- Snorkeling / diving – reefs, turtles, clear bottoms (depending on conditions).
- Seaside hot springs – baths with ocean views.
- Coastal route by scooter or bicycle to tour the island.
Recommended time: 2 days.
Orchid Island (Lányu)
A more isolated island, marked by the culture of the Tao people and very wild coastal landscapes.
Things to see / things to do
- Almost continuous coastal road with views of the cliffs and the open sea.
- Taoist villages and traditional boats (to be respected, not a static setting).
- Hiking and viewpoints overlooking the island's landscape.
Recommended time: 2 to 3 days.taking into account the weather and connections.
Taiwan in summary
- Taipei : museums, temples, night markets, Taipei 101.
- Beitou / Wulai : easily accessible hot springs.
- Yangmingshan : fumaroles, hikes, sakura (depending on the season).
- Jiufen / Shifen : lantern-lit alleyways, waterfall.
- Sun Moon Lake : panoramic cycling & temples.
- Alishan Sunrise and ancient forest.
- taroko : Marble Gorge & Iconic Trails.
- Kaohsiung : urban art & waterfront.
- Kenting : beaches, snorkeling, coastal paths.
- Penghu / Green / Orchid : islands for sea and a change of scenery.
Here are three tried-and-tested formats, adaptable to the season and your interests. The stages prioritize simple journeys (HSR/TRA + bus) and limit changes of accommodation.
If you only have one week:
This was the time we had available for our stay together (Jitima had already been there separately). We focused on the entire northern part of the island, namely Taipei and its surroundings, with a portion in "excursion" mode to get out of the city and see a bit of the mountains of New Taipei, a "special" territory surrounding the city of Taipei.
Here's how we divided up our days in Taiwan:
- Arrival in Taipei – Getting acquainted with our neighborhood (next to the Rahoe Street night market) and a visit to the Longshan Temple
- Taipei – Taipei 101 and Dihua Street district
- Taipei – Huashan 1914 Creative Park then Chiang Kai-shek Memorial
- New-Taipei – Tamsui District
- New-Taipei – North coast (Bitou and the village of Jiufen)
- New-Taipei – Pingxi district (villages and mountains around Shifen)
- Taipei – Beitou district
With this itinerary, we didn't waste much time on transportation since we visited everything from Taipei, mostly using the metro. Only days 5 and 6 were spent using the rental car.
"North & East" Itinerary — 7 to 8 days
In short: an urban + nature condensed experience (gorges, wild coast), with few long transfers.
Day by day
- Days 1–2: Taipei — neighborhoods (Ximending/Dihua), museums, Elephant Mountain at sunset.
- D3: Jiufen & Shifen — old street, waterfalls, Pingxi line train (round trip from Taipei).
- D4–D5: Hualien & Taroko gorges — Shakadang/Qixingtan Bay hikes (based in Hualien).
- Days 6–7: Taitung or East Coast — beaches, cycle paths, hot springs (Zhiben).
- D8: return to Taipei (TTT/TSA flight or TRA train) and departure.
Logistics: TRA Taipei ⇄ Hualien (book), bus to Taroko; TRA Hualien ⇄ Taitung; return by train or domestic flight.
Quick/Themed Variations
- City break 4–5 days: Taipei (3 days) + Jiufen/Shifen (1 day) + Beitou/Yangmingshan (1 day).
- Nature 6–7 days: Taroko (2 days) + East Coast (2 days) + Sun Moon Lake (2 days) + transit Taipei.
- Gourmet & Heritage: Tainan (2–3 days) + Kaohsiung (2 days) + Taipei (2 days).
If you have 10 days to 2 weeks:
Quick notes: Avoid overloading the itinerary (max 3–4 accommodation bases/week). For long segments, prioritize the HSR West side; East side, reserve the TRA in advance. The islands (Green Island, Lanyu, Penghu) are weather dependent: have a mainland plan B ready.
"Classic" Itinerary — 10 to 12 days
In short: Taipei, mountain (lake), historical capital, major southern city and coastal park.
Day by day
- Days 1–2: Taipei — urban warm-up + museums.
- D3–D4: Sun Moon Lake (Rìyuè Tán) — bike tour around the lake, temples, sunrise.
- Day 5: Alishan — forest train, “sea of clouds” (night in the mountains recommended).
- Days 6–7: Tainan — temples, alleyways, street food (Anping, Confucius).
- Days 8–9: Kaohsiung — Pier-2, Lotus Pond, Cijin by ferry.
- D10–D11: Kenting (Southern PN) — beaches, Cape Eluanbi, snorkeling.
- D12: HSR Kaohsiung ⇄ Taipei and departure.
Logistics: HSR Taipei ⇄ Taichung, bus to Sun Moon Lake; SML bus ⇄ Alishan (via Shuishe/Xinyi, depending on the season); Alishan bus ⇄ Chiayi then HSR to Tainan/Kaohsiung; bus to Kenting from Kaohsiung; HSR return.
Island Tour Itinerary — 14 to 16 days
In short: A complete loop, alternating between cities, mountains, coasts and an offshore island if the weather is favorable.
Day by day
- Days 1–2: Taipei — must-sees + Jiufen/Shifen excursion.
- Days 3–4: Hualien & Taroko — gorges, Qixingtan.
- Days 5–6: Taitung — cycling, hot springs (Zhiben), markets.
- Days 7–8: Island (of your choice) — Green island (diving, marine springs) ou Lanyu/Orchid (Tao culture, volcanic landscapes).
- Days 9–10: Kaohsiung — urban art, gastronomy.
- Days 11–12: Tainan — heritage and temples.
- Day 13: Sun Moon Lake — bike loop + sunset.
- Days 14–15: Alishan — sunrise, giant cedar trails.
- D16: return to Taipei (HSR) and departure.
Logistics: TRA on the East side (book early in high season); ferry/flight connections to the islands (variable depending on weather); HSR on the West side to quickly return.
Theme ideas
- Gastronomy Night markets (Shilin, Raohe, Fengjia, Liuhe). Must-tries: beef in broth, noodles, oysters with basil, bubble tea.
- High mountain : Yushan (3,952 m, permit), Hehuanshan (easy viewpoints).
- Culture & Temples Longshan (Taipei), Confucius & Bao'an, Kaohsiung shrines, Tainan if added.
- Hot Springs : Beitou, Wulai, Jiaoxi (Yilan).
- Cycling Sun Moon Lake, rice paddies around Chishang/Guanshan (Taitung).
How much time should I allow?
- 3–4 days : Taipei + Jiufen/Beitou excursion.
- 6–8 days : Taipei → Taroko → Sun Moon Lake or Alishan.
- 10–14 days : “classic” loop Taipei → Hualien/Taroko → Taitung → Kaohsiung → Kenting → Sun Moon Lake/Alishan → return Taipei (HSR + trains/buses).
Coming to Taiwan
Arriving in Taiwan is done most often with 1 stopover From Europe (East Asia or the Gulf). Generally, expect to pay... 15–18 hours of travel Door-to-door service depending on the connection chosen.
Main arrival airports
- Taipei–Taoyuan (TPE) — main international hub (to the north, connected to Taipei by the Airport MRT).
- Taipei–Songshan (TSA) — more central, mainly regional connections (Japan, domestic flights).
- Kaohsiung (KHH) — south of the island, some international + domestic flights.
- Taichung (RMQ) — limited international service, mostly domestic/regional.
Typical routes and companies from Europe
- Via Tokyo / Osaka: JAL, ANA (Japan ⇄ Taipei segment operated by JAL/ANA, EVA Air or China Airlines).
- Via Seoul: Korean Air, Asiana Airlines (numerous ICN ⇄ TPE flights).
- Via Hong Kong / Singapore / Bangkok: Cathay Pacific (via HKG), Singapore Airlines (via SIN), Thai Airways (via BKK).
- Via Dubai / Istanbul / Doha: Emirates (DXB ⇄ TPE), Turkish Airlines (IST ⇄ TPE direct), Qatar Airways (via DOH with connection).
- Direct flights with Taiwanese airlines (depending on European cities): EVA Air, China Airlines.
Price benchmarks (economy round trip): ≈ 700–1,100 € Depending on the season, advance booking, and school holidays. Outside of local holidays (Lunar New Year), it's easier to find low/mid-range prices.
Ticket & Connection Tips
- Multi-city (Arrival Taipei, return Kaohsiung) if you travel down the island by HSR; avoids an unnecessary return trip.
- Stopover time : aim for 1h45–3h to remain comfortable in East Asia (efficient controls but vast airports).
- Bagage en sute Low-cost long-haul airlines often charge extra; check what's included.
- Expensive periods : Lunar New Year + Taiwanese long weekends; plan ahead.
Arrival & first steps (TPE → Taipei)
- Airport MRT (TPE ⇄ Taipei Main): approx. 35–40 min, price ≈ 5 €Practical and frequent.
- Transport cards : buy/top up a EasyCard ou iPASS at the airport (subway/bus/7-Eleven, sometimes small purchases).
- eSIM/SIM Operator counters upon arrival; 7–30 day data packages often between 8–20 €.
- Withdrawal/Change : ATMs in the terminal; card payments widely accepted, but some cash is useful for stands/buses.
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Getting around Taiwan
On an island scale, Taiwan is very easy to navigate : with its equivalent to the TGV (HSR) ultra-reliable on the Western line, conventional trains TRA (including express trains) all around, subways high-performing (Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taichung), intercity buses Frequent and urban journeys payable in EasyCard / iPASS.
Since the schedule is more flexible, I also treated myself to renting a car for two days to explore the north coast and I didn't experience any difficulty driving in the country or in Taipei itself where there are underground parking lots scattered everywhere.
Road transport
If, like us, you're mainly staying around Taipei (or another major city), you'll have little opportunity to travel by road, as rail is the dominant mode of transport on the island. Within the city, however, it's sometimes faster to take a taxi than the metro and change trains multiple times, especially on the north-south axis, as the east-west routes are better connected.
Sinon city buses includes a very dense network, payment by EasyCard / iPASS Uphill/downhill depending on the city, very convenient.
- EasyCard / iPASS Contactless cards for MRT, buses, some TRA trains (zones), airport shuttles, car parks, convenience stores… In-station charging/7-Eleven/FamilyMart.
- Visitor Pass : exist for HSR (1–3 days, not unlimited but segmented) and TRA (zones/days). Useful depending on the itinerary.
- Discounts early-bird HSR, metro+attraction bundles, TRA weekend deals — keep an eye out according to your schedule.
Intercity buses
- When to choose them? Alternatives economic and frequent by rail, especially between major cities in the West.
- Examples : Taipei ⇄ Taichung ≈ 6:30 PM–8:00 PM, €9–12 ; Taipei ⇄ Tainan ≈ 4–5h, €14–18.
- Comfort : reclining seats, air conditioning, sometimes USB/Wi-Fi; departures from major central terminals.
Taxis & VTC
- Taxis : systematic counter, numerous; credit cards not always accepted (bring cash/QR depending on the case).
- limousine service services type Uber coexist with local dispatch (e.g., 24/7 taxi apps).
- Landmarks : typical intra-urban race €4–10 depending on distance/city/traffic.
Bike, motorcycle & car rental
In Taipei, especially if the weather is nice (it's always more pleasant), you can rent yellow bicycles called "Youbike" by the hour. These bikes are found almost everywhere. Stations are located throughout the city of Taipei, with an attractive rate of NT$35 (€1) per hour.
- Information for using Youbike (English)
Originally, I wanted to rent a scooter; it seemed more practical for parking on the spur of the moment (I know myself and my tendency to want to stop anywhere to take photos), plus it would be cheaper. But the fact is that in Taipei, and several other major cities in the country, you can't rent one as a foreigner without a local permit…
So I opted for a car, and the only rental company with an English website is a subsidiary or at least part of the Hertz network, so a reliable option. Here's the link: Chailease
- Racing : dense but rather disciplined urban area (a change from Thailand…); watch out for rain/slippery painted floors.
- Car Useful for parks/high plateaus. Highways with tolls etc. (Often a box is included). Regulated parking in the city.
NB: Some islands or localities allow scooter rentals with only an international driving permit and a national (European) driving permit. In this case, the key information to remember is:
- Scooter: Helmet mandatory.
- Price: Scooter 110–125cc from €10–18 / day depending on city/duration; deposit possible.
More information on riding two-wheelers and where it's possible on this site (English)
Rail transport
When planning this trip, we intended to use this mode of transport to get to the north coast. But since we weren't sure how we'd get around once we were there, I opted for a rental car. However, if your stay is focused solely on towns and villages, it's still a practical way to get around.
The network allows you to travel around the island, with a north-south axis on the west coast (the most populated) connected by a high-speed train.
HSR — Taiwan High Speed Rail (TGV)
- Typical route : Taipei ⇄ Kaohsiung (Zuoying) 1 pm - 35 pm.
- Indicative prices : Taipei ⇄ Taichung ≈ €18–22 ; Taipei ⇄ Kaohsiung ≈ €40–45 (early-bird discounts may be available).
- Frequency : 10–20 min during the day on the main road.
- Seating Reserved (Car Reserved) or unreserved (Car Non-Reserved) depending on the time. Exemplary punctuality.
- Matches HSR stations are often located outside city centers but are connected to MRT/bus.
TRA — Taiwan Railways (conventional trains)
- Role : does the full tour of the island (West & East coasts) + serves non-HSR towns.
- Types : premises (all stops) and Express (e.g. on the East coast towards Hualien/Taitung).
- Examples of time/price : Taipei ⇄ Hualien (express) 2–2 pm, ≈ €14–22 depending on class/train.
- Booking Recommended for popular express services (weekends/holidays).
- Comfort Air conditioning, numbered seats on express; adequate luggage rack.
Metros (Taipei / New Taipei, Kaohsiung, Taichung…)
- MRT : clean, bilingual Chinese/English, clear announcements. Pricing Most journeys cost €0,6–1,9.
- Airport MRT (TPE ⇄ Taipei Main) : 35–40 min, ≈ €4–6.
- Trick : Google/Apple Maps work well, but local apps sometimes give real-time bus ETAs.
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Shipping
We almost used this mode of transport there too; we even had our tickets, but the queue turned out to be far too long, so we had to change our plans. Taiwan being an island, water is inevitably omnipresent. And besides connections to smaller islands, there are also ferry services between neighborhoods in New Taipei City (which is what we tried to do).
- Penghu (Makung), kinmen, Matsu, Green island (Ludao) & Orchid island (Lanyu) accessible by ferry from dedicated ports.
- Weather/Sea : possible delays/cancellations in summer (typhoons) — allow extra time.
- Prices/schedules : prices vary depending on the season and operator; tickets available at the ticket office or online.
Air transport
If you are prone to seasickness or have other reasons for being seasick, most of the outlying islands have their own airports, including the Pescadores (or Penghu) Islands, southwest of Taiwan's main island, as well as Kinmen and the Matsu Islands, just a few kilometers from mainland China. There are also airfields providing access to Orchid Island and Green Island, both located on the east coast.
Otherwise, there will be some standard domestic connections between the main cities, including Chiayi, Tainan, Kaohsiung for the west coast, Hengchun for the peninsula in the far south, and Hualien on the east coast.
- UNI Air — main domestic company. Frequent desserts around penghu, kinmen, Matsu, Hualien and several secondary cities.
- Mandarin Airlines — domestic subsidiary of China Airlines. Numerous domestic routes, often more regular to medium-sized cities (Chiayi, Tainan, Taitung…).
- Starlux Airlines — now operates some internal connections (in particular Kaohsiung, Taichung), modern fleet and good comfort.
- Daily Air — small planes connecting Orchid island et Green islandVery convenient for avoiding the ferry.
baggage : different allowances than international flights; check the limit (often 10–20 kg).
Price one-way current €35–90 depending on destination/season.
With just under 8 million tourists expected in 2024, Taiwan isn't yet significantly affected by overtourism. However, there are more than enough hotel options, even if it's not exactly a budget-friendly country.
Since we mostly stayed around Taipei and New Taipei City, we didn't need to try out many different places. It's also important to remember that we arrived during a major holiday period there, which inflated prices at the beginning of our stay… making it impossible to find accommodation in the city center because it was too expensive.
We then looked on Airbnb and found a room. We realized upon arrival that it was actually an extension of a hotel, the Step INN (森浩文旅), located a few floors higher in the same building.
For the end of our trip, we wanted to be near Taipei Main Station, the central train station where the train to the airport arrives. We had a good quality hotel, well located, but the room was quite small (if you're interested, it was the YI SU HOTEL)
For the rest of the country, here is the search tool:
The local currency is New Taiwan dollar (TWD, NT$)The most common banknotes: 100, 500, 1000 NT$ (The 200 et 2 000 They exist but are rare). Parts: 1, 5, 10, 50 NT$.
To give you a quick idea: 1 € ≈ 35 NT$ (practical rounding).
For example:
170 NT$→ ~170 / 35≈ € 4,9.
Tip: divide by 3 to keep it simple.
- Cards (Visa/Mastercard) widely accepted in the city (hotels, malls, restaurants). small restaurants/stalls often prefer cash or local contactless options.
- Cash useful for night marketsSmall cafes, intercity buses. Clean/slightly creased tickets appreciated.
- ATM very common (7-Eleven, FamilyMart, banks). One fixed costs Local bank and/or your bank may apply: withdraw slightly larger amounts to limit the impact.
- Contactless & transport cards : EasyCard et iPASS used in the subway/bus which has at convenience stores, ATMs, museums, etc. Cash top-up at the counter or in convenience stores.
- Prices shown include VAT in the vast majority of cases. Tip not expected (except for exceptional service/high-end establishments).
Price benchmarks
Accommodation
- Hostel (dormitory bed): €12–22 (≈ 420–770 NT$)
- Single double room: €40–70 (≈ 1,400–2,450 NT$)
- Mid-range: €80–120 (≈ 1,400–2,450 NT$)
- High-end: ≥ 170 € (≈ 6,000+ NT$)
Meals & drinks
- Cheap local dish (street food / night market): €3–6 (≈ 100–210 NT$)
- Coffee (latte/cappuccino): €2,5–4,5 (≈ 90–160 NT$)
- Local beer (draft 330–500 ml): €2–4 (≈ 70–140 NT$)
- Water (600 ml bottle): €0,6–1 (≈ 20–35 NT$)
Le A tip is not expected (except for exceptional/premium service). The prices shown are generally VAT Incl..
Transport
- Metro/urban bus (EasyCard): €0,6–1,4 (≈ 20–50 NT$) the journey
- Intercity TRA (e.g., Taipei → Hualien): €13–18 (≈ 450–630 NT$)
- THSR (Taiwanese TGV) ex. Taipei → Taichung/Kaohsiung: €20–45 (≈ 700–1,500 NT$)
- Car (rental/day): €45–80 (≈ 1,400–2,450 NT$)
- Essence: ~€1 / L (≈ 32–35 NT$/L)
- Urban taxi (short trips): €4–8 (≈ 140–280 NT$)
For data updated by city (rent, restaurants, groceries…), consult Numbeo for Taipei, Kaohsiung, etc.
Small budget
Average budget
Comfortable
Taiwan is worth visiting very calmly Their healthcare system is efficient, overall hygiene is excellent, and safety is high. Below is essential information (insurance, vaccinations, mosquitoes, hygiene, safety, useful numbers).
Travel insurance — useful even in Taiwan
A dedicated insurance policy remains highly recommended (emergency care, hospitalization, repatriation, civil liability, outdoor activities).
- Care & Payment : very good quality, reasonable prices compared to the West, but payment is often immediate (reimbursement afterwards).
- Documents to keep : insurance policy, 24/7 numbers, supporting documents (detailed invoices).
I recommend you Heymondo Travel Insurance (5% discount via my link).
Transparency: if you subscribe via this link, I will receive a small commission — at no extra cost to you.
Vaccines & health prevention (reminder)
Up to date : DTP in adults, MMR in children.
Depending on profile/activities :
- Hepatitis A : recommended if you often eat out (street food).
- Hepatitis B : long stays/care possible.
- Rage : rare cases in the city, to be discussed for rural/extended stays.
- Japanese encephalitis only if long rural stay (rice crops) during mosquito season.
Best : consult a international vaccination center before departure (profile, duration, season).
Mosquitoes & Vector-Borne Diseases
Taiwan is generally safe, but episodes of dengue occur mainly summer–autumn (south and plains).
- Repellent (DEET/icaridin/PMD), especially at dusk.
- Clothing long (clear), rooms air-conditioned/ventilated.
- If you have a fever Consult a doctor promptly; avoid ibuprofen/aspirin without medical advice.
Hygiene & water/food
- Water Tap water is treated in the city, but the premises boil/filter Out of habit. For the sake of simplicity, drink sealed bottle ou filtered water.
- Street food Very popular and generally safe. Stick to the roadside stands. frequented (high turnover rate).
- Recommended kit: pain reliever (paracetamol), anti-diarrheal + rehydration solution, plasters, mosquito repellent, sunscreen.
Safety — Traffic, Scams & Natural Hazards
- Very safe Low crime rate. Basic rules: keep your belongings near you in busy areas (subway, night markets).
- Route high density of scootersBeware of right turns and blind spots; cross at crossings, look both ways.
- Typhons : Above all June → OctoberMonitor the weather, plan your ferries/flights in advance, keep a buffer day on an island itinerary.
- Earthquakes : possible all year round. Apply the rule “Drop, Cover, Hold On” (Bend down : fall to the ground to avoid being knocked over, Cover yourself Get under a table/sturdy piece of furniture and protect your head and neck. Hold on tight : hold the furniture/shelter firmly until the shaking stops); locate the emergency exit of your accommodation.
- Wed : respect the flags and local guidelines; currents sometimes strong on East/South coasts.
Pharmacies & hospitals — key information
- Pharmacies numerous, helpful staff; labeling often bilingual (Hungarian/English).
- Hospitals and clinics : efficient reception, English often available in large establishments (Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, Kaohsiung).
- Payment Cash/card; ask detailed invoice for insurance.
Emergency numbers & useful contacts
- Police : 110
- Firefighters / Ambulance : 119
- Information in English (tourism) : 0800-011-765 (depending on operators — often 24/7 service)
- Loss/Passport : contact your representative (e.g. French Office in Taipei) for consular assistance.
Travel advice from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (France Diplomacy) : Taiwan fact sheet
