Last update: 12 Oct 2026
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Taiwan Summary
These place ratings give you a quick overview of how well a destination matches different types of trips.
‘Best for’ scores:
The specific interest scores show where this place really shines – whether it's ideal for hiking, food & drink experiences, museums or other activities. These highlights help you understand what makes the destination special at a glance.
‘Your personal’ scores:
This reflects how well a place matches your personal preferences. You can adjust the importances of travel topics or other personal requirements categories in your account settings.
‘Suited for’ badges:
These give you a quick overview of how well a destination suits specific types of travellers, to help you find the places that match your lifestyle, preferences or travel situation.
Suited for
Taiwan – Quick facts
| Power Grid: |
110 V, 60 Hz Plug: Type A , Type B
Type A:
  Read about power adapters |
|---|---|
| Currency: |
New Taiwan Dollar (TWD) £1 ≈ NT$43.16 |
| Cashless info: |
Rating 5/5
Cashless payments are widely accepted in Taiwan, especially in major cities. The EasyCard (a stored-value card for public transport and convenience stores) and mobile payments such as Apple Pay and Google Pay are common.
Save with a travel credit card |
| eSIM providers: |
Best value: Saily Flexibility: Airalo Read our in-depth comparison |
| Tipping: | Tipping is not expected in Taiwan, and it is not common to leave tips in restaurants, taxis, or hotels. |
|---|---|
| Public drinking: | Public drinking is allowed in Taiwan, but alcohol is typically consumed in licensed venues such as bars and restaurants. |
| Public smoking: | Smoking is prohibited in indoor public spaces, but there are designated smoking areas outdoors. |
| Lunar New Year (date varies) |
Celebrated with family gatherings and feasts |
|---|---|
| National Day (10 October) |
Taiwan’s National Day |
| Emergency contact: | Emergency Numbers: 110 (Police), 119 (Fire, Ambulance) |
|---|---|
| Taxi apps: | Uber, Taiwan Taxi |
| Other: | Taiwan is known for its night markets, beautiful mountains, and vibrant cities. It is a popular destination for food lovers and nature enthusiasts. |
Best times to travel
The best times to travel section shows how the months compare for a visit, so you can find the time of year that fits what you want to do.
Background colours of the months:
The colour shows the typical temperature: yellow (hot), green (mild) and blue (cold). How strong the colour is shows the travel season: full colour means high season, soft colour means shoulder season and soft-striped means off season.
Weather symbols:
Each month has one symbol showing what the weather is typically like, such as hot and sunny, freezing or a rainy or snowy season. Use them to quickly spot months that match the weather you want, or to avoid the ones that don't.
Crowdedness:
The people icon shows how busy the place usually is. The more people, the more crowded it gets.
Additional notes:
The grey info boxes point out special things worth knowing, like recurring weather issues or seasonal events.
for Taiwan, Taiwan
Climate varies by region: the north is grey and drizzly in winter, the south stays sunny and dry, the high mountains are cold with occasional snow, beaches are best May to September
Typhoon season July to October can cancel flights, trains and mountain roads
Lunar New Year, late January to mid February: many shops and restaurants close for several days, transport fully booked
Don't miss
- 🏙️ Visit Taipei 101 and enjoy panoramic city views
- 🗻 Explore Taroko Gorge’s marble cliffs and trails
- 🌃 Experience night markets for street food delights
- 🚡 Ride Maokong Gondola to tea plantations
- 🚴♀️ Bike around scenic Sun Moon Lake shores
- 🏯 Discover ancient temples in historic Tainan city
You've been here?
Log in to manage your own bucket list! Why travel to Taiwan?
Taiwan's appeal lies in its remarkable diversity of experiences packed into a relatively small island. The country boasts world-class hiking in spectacular national parks like Taroko Gorge and Yushan, where dramatic landscapes range from marble cliffs to alpine forests. Food enthusiasts will be mesmerized by the incredible street food scene at night markets like Shilin and Raohe, where you can sample everything from stinky tofu to bubble tea. The rich cultural heritage is evident in ornate temples, traditional performances and the world-class National Palace Museum housing treasures spanning 8,000 years of Chinese history. However, travelers should be prepared for certain challenges. The summer months (June-August) can be extremely hot, humid and rainy with temperatures often exceeding 30°C, while typhoons may disrupt travel plans from July to October. Language barriers can be significant outside major tourist areas, though younger Taiwanese often speak some English. While Taiwan is generally affordable compared to Japan or Western Europe, prices in Taipei can be higher than expected, especially for accommodations during peak seasons.
🏙️Cities & Regions
-
1
Taipei
A vibrant metropolis where modern skyscrapers meet historic temples and night markets. The city offers diverse cuisine, efficient public transport, cultural festivals and scenic mountain views, making it a dynamic hub for travelers seeking both tradition and innovation. -
2
Taichung
A cultural hub on Taiwan’s central coast, Taichung showcases Rainbow Village, National Museum of Fine Arts and an arts district. Its relaxed pace, street food and efficient metro enable easy trips to Gaomei Wetlands or nearby temples, sidestepping Taipei’s crowds. -
3
Kaohsiung
A bustling port city on Taiwan’s southwest coast, Kaohsiung offers modern waterfront promenades, a vibrant night market scene and cultural landmarks such as the Pier‑2 Art Center and Lotus Pond temples, all set beside the tranquil Love River. -
4
Tainan
Historic streets weave through temples and night markets, offering a blend of traditional Chinese architecture and modern Taiwanese culture. The city’s citrus orchards, hot springs and vibrant food scene create an engaging contrast between heritage and contemporary life. -
5
Hualien
A coastal county on Taiwan’s east coast offers dramatic cliffs, lush forests and a vibrant indigenous culture. The Taroko Gorge showcases marble canyons, while the Pacific shoreline provides surfing spots and scenic sunsets. Local markets feature fresh seafood and traditional crafts. -
6
Kenting National Park
Located on Taiwan’s southwestern coast, Kenting National Park offers tropical beaches, clear waters and lush pine forests. Visitors can hike volcanic cliffs, explore coral reefs and enjoy year‑round sunshine in a protected natural reserve for adventure. -
7
Jiufen
This historic mountain town offers narrow cobblestone streets, traditional tea houses and breathtaking views of Taipei's skyline. Visitors can explore old silver mines, sample local snacks and enjoy a relaxed atmosphere away from the city's hustle. -
8
Sun Moon Lake
This iconic natural wonder features two crescent-shaped lakes joined by a narrow isthmus, surrounded by lush forests and dramatic rock formations that create a breathtaking reflection of sky and water in every season. -
9
Beitou
A lively district in northern Taipei known for its hot springs and vibrant night markets. The area features historic temples, scenic parks and bustling streets filled with local food vendors and cultural attractions.
🏯Places worth seeing
🎡Places for activities
-
1
Alishan
High mountain forests and misty peaks define this scenic Taiwanese resort. Ancient cypress trees line winding roads, while waterfalls cascade down granite cliffs. It offers serene hiking trails and cool air perfect for nature lovers seeking tranquility away from city life. -
2
Hot springs creek
-
3
Green Island
-
4
Orchid Island
🏞️Natural landmarks
🛍️Shopping
🎈Events
-
Lantern Festival (February)
-
Dragon Boat Festival (June)
-
Ghost Festival (August)
-
Mid-Autumn Festival (September)
-
Double Ten Day (October 10)
-
Taipei International Book Exhibition (February)
-
Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival (February)
-
Mazu Pilgrimage (April)
-
Taiwan Pride Parade (October)
-
Taipei Film Festival (June-July)
Knowledge before you go
- Watch for scooters; traffic can feel chaotic for pedestrians.
- Typhoon season runs roughly May to November; expect sudden downpours and landslides in mountains.
- Use an EasyCard for metro and buses; it also works in many convenience stores.
- Night markets are best after 7pm; go hungry, carry some cash and queue politely.
How to travel to Taiwan
Most international visitors arrive via Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport near Taipei, with direct flights available from major Asian hubs, North America and Europe. As of March 2025, citizens of over 60 countries can enter Taiwan visa-free for stays of 14-90 days depending on nationality. Before boarding your flight, ensure you have your return ticket and sufficient funds for your stay. From the airport, the MRT connects directly to Taipei city center in about 35 minutes, while buses and taxis are also available.
Access summary
- Taipei: Fly to TPE Taoyuan; MRT/trains to city.
- Kaohsiung: Fly to KHH; HSR from Taipei.
- Taichung/Sun Moon Lake: Fly TPE then HSR/bus.
Check your route from anywhere
Where to stay in Taiwan
Taiwan offers accommodations for every budget, from luxury international hotels in major cities to budget hostels and unique local guesthouses. Taipei has the widest range but also the highest prices, especially in the city center. Hot spring resorts in Beitou and Wulai offer traditional bathing experiences, while rural areas feature homestays that provide authentic cultural immersion. Budget travelers can find clean, safe hostels starting from NT$500 (£11.57) per night, while mid-range hotels typically cost NT$2,000 – 4,000 (£46.28 – 92.56). Book well in advance during Chinese New Year and other major holidays.
Hotel recommendations
*by rating and popularity. Commissions have no influence on the rankings.
How to get around Taiwan
Taiwan has an excellent and affordable public transportation system. In Taipei and Kaohsiung, the MRT (subway) systems are clean, efficient and have English signage. High-speed rail (HSR) connects major cities along the western coast, while the slower TRA trains serve more destinations. For local travel, city buses are comprehensive but can be confusing for non-Chinese speakers. The EasyCard is a convenient stored-value card that works on most public transportation throughout the island. For remote areas, renting a scooter is popular, though an International Driving Permit is required.
Budget snapshot
Costs compared to home
We calculate the average costs when travelling to destinations and compare those with the living costs at your home. With this you can get an estimate of how expensive or cheap the destination is for you.
To customise this, you can set up which location and price level are used for the calculations in your account settings.
Daily expenses in Taiwan are around 58% lower than the average across United States. That means you'll spend a lot less on meals and getting around.
Exchange rate trend
The exchange rate price factor shows how expensive or cheap a currency currently is compared to its historical average. It's a quick way to see if a country is currently more or less affordable due to exchange rate changes.
Your exchange rate (GBP to TWD) is 11% better than in recent years. That means travelling now is cheaper compared to the past.
Travel costs
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
To help you plan your trip, we provide estimated daily costs per person (when travelling as a pair) for different travel styles. These numbers give you an idea of what you might spend each day at this destination, including accommodation, food, transport and activities.
Additionally, we also provide average hotel costs for different travel styles to give you an estimate for the accommodation only.
Please note that these are only estimates. The real costs depend on booking times, season and other factors.
Daily cost summary
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
Travel style categories explained:
Backpacker:
Staying in hostels or budget hotels, cooking your own meals or eating cheap and choosing low-cost activities.
Mid-range:
Staying in mid-range hotels, eating at a mix of restaurants and casual spots and enjoying a variety of activities.
Luxury:
Staying in luxury hotels, dining out at high-end restaurants and enjoying premium experiences without worrying about the price.
| Backpacker | Mid-range | Luxury | |
|---|---|---|---|
| 💵 Total costs per day, including accommodation | |||
| 🏨 Accommodation per night, per person | |||
| 🍝 Food per day | |||
| 🚕 Transportation per day |
Food & Drink
| 🍽️ Restaurant Dinner, per person | |
|---|---|
| 🍛 Lunch Set, per person | |
| 🍟 Fast food combo | |
| 🍝 Preparing your own food, per day | |
| ☕ Cappuccino | |
| 🍺 Beer in a restaurant, 0.5 l |
Transportation
| 🚌 Public transport ticket | |
|---|---|
| 🚕 Taxi Ride, 10 km / 6 mi | |
| ⛽ Petrol, 1 l |
Other
| 🎞️ Cinema ticket | |
|---|---|
| 👩⚕️ Doctor's consult | |
| 🤧 Cold medication | |
| 💇 Basic haircut |
Safety information overview
General safety
Taiwan is one of the safest countries in Asia with very low crime rates. Exercise normal precautions in crowded areas and night markets where pickpocketing occasionally occurs. Natural disasters like earthquakes and typhoons are the main safety concerns.
Health & Medical
Taiwan has excellent healthcare facilities with modern hospitals in major cities. Medical care is high quality and affordable. Pharmacies are widely available for minor health issues. Bring any necessary prescription medications as some drugs may be unavailable.
Accessibility
Major cities like Taipei have improved accessibility with elevators in MRT stations and accessible facilities in newer buildings. However, older areas, night markets and rural regions may present challenges with uneven surfaces, stairs and limited facilities for mobility-impaired travelers.
Tap water
Tap water in Taiwan is generally not safe for drinking without boiling or filtering first. Bottled water is widely available and inexpensive. Most hotels provide complimentary bottled water daily. Public drinking fountains are rare.
Packing recommendations for Taiwan
Log in to add this place to a travel list and get a summary of all recommended items for your whole trip.
📷
Camera
👟
Comfortable walking shoes
🌞
Sun cream
👕
Light, breathable clothing
🧥
Waterproof jacket
☂️
Folding umbrella
🪰
Insect repellent
🧼
Hand sanitiser
🩱
Swimwear
🧕
Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees
for temple visits
🔋
Power bank
🩹
Basic first aid kit
📃
Travel insurance
🪪
Copies of passport and important documents
📱
Travel eSIM
🔌
Universal travel adaptor
Type A/B plugs
🩺
Prescription medicines
💳
Credit card with no foreign transaction fees
🛂
Passport
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