4 Days Taiwan Itinerary: Exploring the Best of the Formosa Island
4 Days Taiwan Itinerary: Exploring the Best of the Formosa IslandWelcome to Taiwan, a captivating island nation in East Asia known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious cuisine. In this 4-day itinerary, we will guide you through the must-visit destinations in Taiwan, allowing you to experience the rich history, natural wonders, and modern cityscapes that make this country truly unique. Get ready for an unforgettable journey as we take you on a whirlwind adventure through the best of Taiwan.
Taiwan Itinerary Day 1: Taipei City and Night Markets
- (4 Days Taiwan Itinerary): Your Taiwan adventure begins as you arrive in Taipei, the vibrant capital city. Start your day by visiting the iconic Taipei 101, once the tallest building in the world. Take a ride up to the observatory deck for panoramic views of the city and its surrounding mountains.
- Afterward, explore the historic district of Dadaocheng, known for its traditional architecture, charming streets, and tea houses. Immerse yourself in the local culture as you stroll through the bustling markets and sample delicious street food.
- In the evening, experience the lively atmosphere of Taipei’s night markets. Visit Shilin Night Market, the largest and most famous night market in Taipei, where you can indulge in a variety of local delicacies, shop for souvenirs, and immerse yourself in the vibrant street food scene.
Taiwan Itinerary Day 2: Jiufen, Yehliu Geopark, and Shifen
- (4 Days Taiwan Itinerary) Today, venture outside of Taipei to explore the natural wonders of northern Taiwan. Start your day with a visit to Jiufen, a charming mountain village known for its narrow alleyways, traditional tea houses, and stunning views of the coastline. Explore the old streets, try local snacks, and soak in the nostalgic atmosphere.
- Next, head to Yehliu Geopark, famous for its unique rock formations shaped by wind and water erosion. Marvel at the iconic “Queen’s Head” rock and explore the otherworldly landscape of this geological wonder.
- In the afternoon, visit Shifen, a picturesque town known for its sky lantern tradition. Write your wishes on a lantern, light it up, and release it into the sky for good luck. Take a stroll along the historic railway tracks and visit the charming Shifen Waterfall before heading back to Taipei.
Taiwan Itinerary Day 3: Taroko Gorge and Hualien
- (4 Days Taiwan Itinerary) :Today, embark on a day trip to Taroko Gorge, one of Taiwan’s most breathtaking natural wonders. Start early in the morning and take a scenic train ride from Taipei to Hualien, the gateway to Taroko National Park.
- Upon arrival, explore the mesmerizing Taroko Gorge, a marble canyon carved by the Liwu River. Marvel at the towering cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and turquoise pools as you hike along the trails. Don’t miss the famous Eternal Spring Shrine, a beautiful temple built in memory of the workers who lost their lives during the construction of the Central Cross-Island Highway.
- After a day of exploration, relax and unwind in Hualien City. Enjoy a delicious seafood dinner at one of the local restaurants and take a leisurely stroll along the scenic Qixingtan Beach, where you can enjoy the sunset over the Pacific Ocean.
Taiwan Itinerary Day 4: Tainan City and Kaohsiung
- On your final day, take a high-speed train to Tainan, the cultural capital of Taiwan. Explore the historic sites and temples that showcase the rich heritage of the city. Visit the famous Chihkan Tower, Anping Old Fort, and Confucius Temple to immerse yourself in Tainan’s history and culture.
- In the afternoon, continue your journey to Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second-largest city. Visit the iconic Lotus Pond, home to several stunning temples and pagodas. Don’t miss the Dragon and Tiger Pagodas, where you can walk through the dragon’s mouth and exit through the tiger’s mouth for good luck.
- End your day by exploring the vibrant Liuhe Night Market, known for its wide variety of street food and local delicacies. Indulge in delicious snacks, shop for souvenirs, and soak in the lively atmosphere before bidding farewell to Taiwan.
Best Times to Travel and Explore Taiwan
Taiwan is a captivating destination with a rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and vibrant cities. Whether you’re planning a leisurely vacation or an adventurous trip, it’s essential to consider the best times to visit Taiwan to make the most of your travel experience. Here are some recommendations for the ideal travel and tourism times in Taiwan.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is considered one of the best seasons to visit Taiwan. The weather during this time is pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20-25 degrees Celsius (68-77 degrees Fahrenheit). The cherry blossoms and other flowers are in full bloom, creating a picturesque landscape across the country.
During spring, you can explore the famous Yangmingshan National Park, known for its stunning cherry blossoms and hot springs. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit Taipei’s renowned Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall and take part in the colorful Lantern Festival.
Summer (June to August)
Summer in Taiwan brings warm and humid weather, with temperatures ranging from 28-35 degrees Celsius (82-95 degrees Fahrenheit). This is the peak tourist season due to school vacations and festivals.
If you enjoy beach activities, head to Kenting National Park, located in the southern part of Taiwan. It offers beautiful white sandy beaches and crystal-clear waters, perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and diving. Summer is also an excellent time to explore the stunning Sun Moon Lake and experience the vibrant night markets in Taipei.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is another fantastic season to visit Taiwan. The weather becomes more moderate, with temperatures ranging from 24-30 degrees Celsius (75-86 degrees Fahrenheit). The rainfall is less compared to summer, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities.
During autumn, you can embark on a hiking adventure in Taroko National Park, known for its breathtaking marble cliffs and stunning gorges. Explore the vibrant city of Kaohsiung and visit the famous Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. Don’t forget to indulge in the delicious street food and traditional delicacies during your visit.
Winter (December to February)
Winter in Taiwan brings colder temperatures, ranging from 15-20 degrees Celsius (59-68 degrees Fahrenheit) in coastal areas. The mountainous regions may experience occasional snowfall, making it a perfect time for winter sports enthusiasts.
Head to Alishan National Scenic Area to witness the mesmerizing sunrise over the sea of clouds. Enjoy skiing and snowboarding in Yilan or Nantou County. Winter is also an excellent time to explore the vibrant night markets, taste hot pot dishes, and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere during the Lunar New Year celebrations.
Off-Peak Travel
If you prefer to avoid crowds and enjoy discounted prices, consider visiting Taiwan during the shoulder seasons. These are the months just before or after the peak tourist seasons.
In April and May or September and October, you can still enjoy pleasant weather and explore popular attractions without the large crowds. This is an ideal time for nature lovers to witness the blooming flowers and enjoy hiking trails in Taiwan’s national parks.
FAQ
1. What is the best time to visit Taiwan?
The best time to visit Taiwan is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) when the weather is pleasant and rainfall is minimal. However, Taiwan can be visited year-round, with each season offering its own unique charm.
2. Do I need a visa to visit Taiwan?
Many nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry to Taiwan for a certain period of time. However, it is recommended to check the visa requirements based on your nationality before traveling to Taiwan.
3. What is the currencyof Taiwan?
The currency of Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). It is advisable to exchange your currency to TWD before your trip or withdraw cash from ATMs in Taiwan. Credit cards are widely accepted in major establishments, but it’s always good to have some cash on hand for smaller businesses and street vendors.
4. Can I use public transportation to get around Taiwan?
Yes, Taiwan has an excellent public transportation system that makes it easy to travel around the country. Taipei has an efficient metro system, and there are also trains, buses, and high-speed rail services connecting major cities and attractions. It is recommended to purchase an EasyCard or iPass, which can be used for multiple modes of transportation.
5. What are some must-try Taiwanese dishes?
Taiwan is a food lover’s paradise, and there are numerous delicious dishes to try. Some must-try Taiwanese dishes include:
- Beef Noodle Soup: A hearty bowl of noodles with tender beef in a flavorful broth.
- Bubble Tea: Taiwan’s famous drink, consisting of tea, milk, and chewy tapioca pearls.
- Xiao Long Bao: Steamed dumplings filled with juicy pork and a flavorful broth.
- Oyster Omelette: A popular street food dish made with fresh oysters, eggs, and vegetables.
- Pineapple Cake: A sweet pastry filled with pineapple jam, a popular souvenir from Taiwan.