Top Things to Do in Taiwan: 15 Unmissable Experiences for Travelers
Explore natural wonders, vibrant traditions, and the best local experiences with this guide to Taiwan’s must-see destinations.
Top Things to Do in Taiwan: 15 Unmissable Experiences
Taiwan dazzles with its diversity—lush marble gorges, lively night markets, sacred temples, mountain retreats, and thriving coffee plantations. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned explorer, these 15 best things to do in Taiwan promise an itinerary that’s entirely your own, blending nature, culture, cuisine, and adventure.
1. Soak Up the Gorgeousness of Taroko Gorge
Arguably Taiwan’s most iconic natural attraction, Taroko Gorge is a painter’s dream in three dimensions. The gorge’s striking marble cliffs, shrouded in mist, loom over the jade-green Liwu River while lush vegetation and ribbon-like waterfalls complete the scene. Following a major earthquake in April 2024, while the road through the gorge remains open, the park’s trails are under reconstruction and closed to hikers for the time being. Even from the car window, the grandeur of this reserve is unforgettable.
Highlights:
- Steep marble cliffs rising above rapids
- Heavenly waterfalls and dense forest surrounds
- Accessible scenic drives
Planning Tip: Check current conditions in the park before planning your trip, as renovations may affect access.
2. Visit Taiwan’s Temples—All 15,000 of Them
Taiwan is home to thousands of temples, each offering a unique window into the spiritual and cultural life of the island. From grandiose shrines to intimate neighborhood altars, these temples are vibrant hubs for festivals, rituals, and everyday contemplation. Inside, elaborate woodwork, incense clouds, joss paper, and intricate lanterns create an atmosphere that’s both mystical and welcoming.
Highlights:
- Temple hopping in Taipei, Tainan, and Kaohsiung
- Observing traditional rituals and festivals
- Seeking blessings from intricate statues—such as the multi-headed Guanyin
Insider’s Tip: Don’t miss the annual Lantern Festival and the dramatic burning of joss paper during temple celebrations.
3. Embark on a Coffee Crawl and Sample Fresh-Roasted Beans
Once overshadowed by tea, Taiwan’s coffee culture is thriving. The subtropical climate of highland plantations yields distinctive beans sought after by connoisseurs. Homegrown cafés, from lush plantation lounges to urban coffee bars, serve expertly roasted single origins and inventive blends.
Recommended Experiences:
- Taste coffee from Alishan and Taidong plantations
- Visit local roasting houses for fresh beans
- Take part in a coffee tasting event or tour
Fun Fact: Taiwan now exports premium beans to international markets, making it a rising star in the global coffee scene.
4. Relax at the Beach—From Sneaky Slivers to Golden Sands
Despite its mountainous terrain, Taiwan boasts stunning beaches. Whether you seek a chill surf scene, calm coves, or pebbly stretches framed by nature, the coastline offers memorable escapes. Popular beaches like Fulong (northeast) and Kenting (south) provide golden sands, while hidden bays, such as those on the east coast, promise tranquility with a view.
Highlights:
- Swimming and sunbathing at Fulong Beach
- Surfing in Jinzun or Baishawan
- Seaside seafood shacks and refreshments
5. Discover Taiwan’s Night Markets
A trip to Taiwan isn’t complete without experiencing the sensory overload of a night market. Sprawling clusters of food stalls, shops, and game booths line major cities, serving up everything from traditional snacks to modern street eats.
Must-Try Dishes:
- Braised pork rice (lu rou fan)
- Taiwanese spring rolls (run bing)
- Oyster omelet
- Stinky tofu
- Sesame-coated mochi, taro balls
Popular Markets: Shilin (Taipei’s largest), Ningxia (for desserts), Linjiang Street (for wallet-friendly eats), and Huaxi (famous for snake wine).
6. Wander Lush Mountain Forests and Tea Plantations
Taipei and its surroundings provide easy access to verdant mountain forests and world-renowned tea farms. Trails like Jinmianshan and Xiangshan offer panoramic city vistas and connections to a network of hiking paths.
Recommended Activities:
- Hike the Xiangshan (Elephant Mountain) Trail for city views
- Ride the Maokong Gondola into misty hills
- Sample Bouzhong and Oolong teas in Maokong teahouses
Planning Tip: Evening hikes deliver dazzling sunsets; combine with a tea tasting for a perfect day.
7. Conquer Taiwan’s Mountain Peaks
Mountains define Taiwan’s landscape, and hiking is a favorite pastime for locals and visitors alike. Yangmingshan National Park, just outside Taipei, offers lush meadows, volcanic landscapes, and ten climbable peaks. For seasoned trekkers, reaching the summit of Jade Mountain (Yushan)—the tallest peak in Northeast Asia—is the ultimate challenge.
Key Spots:
- Mount Qixing and Qingtiangang Grassland (Yangmingshan)
- Jade Mountain (Yushan)
- Lush forest trails around Alishan and Hehuanshan
How to Reach: Yangmingshan is accessible by bus from Taipei Main Station; come prepared with good hiking shoes and check trail conditions.
8. Explore Old Mining Towns and Scenic Waterfalls on the Pingxi Line
The Pingxi Line is a nostalgic railway journey into Taiwan’s early twentieth-century coal mining heritage. Quaint villages, waterfalls, and even a Cat Village await along the 12km, single-track line parallel to the Keelung River.
Top Stops:
- Houtong Cat Village—café culture and mining museum
- Sandiaoling Waterfall Trail—three picturesque waterfalls
- Shifen Waterfall—Taiwan’s most impressive cascade
- Vintage ‘old streets’ for food and souvenirs
9. Cycle Between Skyscrapers—with an Urban Twist
Taipei’s excellent bike infrastructure means you can pedal beneath the city’s soaring skyline. Public bike rentals (Ubike) connect riverside parks and scenic bridges, making cycling seamless. For bold cyclists, the round-the-island route is a rite of passage, circling Taiwan’s coasts, countryside, and cities in roughly two weeks.
Why Try Cycling?
- Pedal alongside Taipei’s rivers and gardens
- Join group rides between city districts
- Discover the contrasting urban and natural landscapes with ease
10. Revel in Taiwan’s Whisky and Craft Drinks Scene
Home-grown artisanal distilleries are now putting Taiwan on the global drinks map. Kavalan’s award-winning whisky leads the way for inventive spirits, while microbreweries, sake factories, and fruit wine makers spread across the island.
Recommended Experiences:
- Tour the Kavalan distillery in Yilan
- Sample local craft beers in Taipei and Taichung
- Try fruit wines from central highlands
Fun Fact: Taiwan’s climatic conditions help whisky mature quickly, creating deep, complex flavors admired worldwide.
11. Dive into Taiwan’s Indigenous Culture
Home to around 16 recognized Indigenous groups, Taiwan offers travelers a glimpse into unique traditions, crafts, and languages, especially in rural mountain villages and the east coast. Indigenous festivals, songs, dances, and flavors enrich any journey.
Key Experiences:
- Visit Atayal villages (famous for weaving and wild boar sausages)
- Participate in tribal feasts, games, and ceremonies
- Purchase handmade crafts and artwork
Planning Tip: Look out for seasonal harvest and hunting festivals for immersive cultural experiences.
12. Learn Local History in Former Colonial Cities
Taiwan’s layered past can be explored in cities like Tainan and Jiufen, which preserve Dutch, Japanese, and Chinese influences in their architecture and traditions. Museums and monuments narrate the island’s vibrant story.
Must-See Sites:
- Fort Zeelandia and Chihkan Tower (Tainan)
- Jiufen Old Street—nostalgic alleyways and lanterns
- Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (Taipei)
Tip: Guided walking tours are available in most historic quarters for deeper insights.
13. Shop for Unique Souvenirs and Local Handicrafts
Taiwan’s shopping scene ranges from bustling malls to hip local markets and traditional streets. Look for handmade pottery, indigenous jewelry, designer fashions, and artisanal treats to take home.
Where to Shop:
- Dihua Street in Taipei—fabrics, teas, and crafts
- Huashan 1914 Creative Park—avant-garde art and design
- Railway and night markets—quirky gifts and local snacks
14. Experience Taiwan’s Hot Springs and Wellness Culture
Thermal springs are found across Taiwan, with public bathhouses and serene resorts dotting mountains and river valleys. Beitou, near Taipei, is famed for its Japanese-style springs, while rural areas offer wild, open-air pools.
- Soak in Beitou Hot Springs’ mineral baths
- Relax in spa resorts in Wulai and Jiaoxi
- Seek out natural wild springs for a rustic dip
15. Savor Taiwan’s Food Scene—From Street Eats to Fine Dining
Taiwan’s culinary reputation spans the globe, with delicacies ranging from humble night market fare to Michelin-starred restaurants. Local ingredients, inventive chefs, and regional specialties mean there’s always something new to sample.
Must-Try Foods:
- Beef noodle soup
- Sweet potato balls
- Bubble (boba) tea
- Mango shaved ice
- Gua bao (Taiwanese pork buns)
Tip: Food tours are a great way to sample hidden gems in Taipei, Tainan, and Kaohsiung.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the best time to visit Taiwan?
A: Generally, spring (March–May) and autumn (September–November) offer pleasant weather, lush landscapes, and lively festivals.
Q: Are English signs and language common for travelers?
A: Major cities and tourist sites feature English signage. Basic English is spoken at hotels and restaurants, though learning a few Mandarin phrases is helpful.
Q: Is it easy to get around Taiwan?
A: Yes. Taiwan’s public transportation—trains, buses, high-speed rail, and Taipei’s MRT—is modern, efficient, and tourist-friendly. Cycling is also increasingly popular.
Q: Are Taiwanese night markets safe and family-friendly?
A: Absolutely; night markets are well-patrolled, lively, and welcome to all ages. Street food is a highlight, but always check for hygiene before purchasing.
Q: Are mountain hikes suitable for beginners?
A: Many hiking trails near Taipei, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge suit all levels. Proper footwear and checking trail conditions are recommended.
Quick Comparison Table: Taiwan’s Top Nature Destinations
| Destination | Highlights | Accessibility |
|---|---|---|
| Taroko Gorge | Marble cliffs, waterfalls, scenic drive | Car, bus |
| Yangmingshan | Volcanic peaks, silver grass, hiking trails | Bus from Taipei |
| Kenting National Park | Beaches, marine sports | Car, bus |
| Alishan | Mist-shrouded forests, sunrise views | Train, bus |
Tips for First-Time Travelers to Taiwan
- Purchase an EasyCard for cashless travel on public transit.
- Try something new at every night market; the variety is immense.
- Respect temple customs—ask before photographing rituals.
- Mountain weather changes quickly; pack layers and waterproofs.
- Don’t miss bubble tea from local stands—the original drink craze.
Conclusion
Taiwan weaves together the best of natural splendor, cultural tradition, and modern flair. From hiking misty peaks to feasting at colorful markets, from coffee plantations to sacred temples, every traveler’s journey can be as unique as the island itself. Whether you linger in urban Taipei or roam unbeaten paths, these 15 experiences ensure your Taiwan adventure is memorable and rich in discovery.
