20 Best Places to Visit in Taiwan

Taiwan is full of surprises.

Beyond its buzzing cities, you’ll find misty mountains, lush forests, dramatic coastlines, and villages steeped in history.

Whether you’re hiking through Taroko Gorge, exploring old mining towns like Jiufen, or soaking in hidden hot springs, there’s so much more to this island than first meets the eye.

Last year, I spent 2 months living in Taiwan and fell completely in love with the place. I had no idea just how diverse Taiwan’s landscapes and cultures really were – it’s an incredible place.

Here’s a selection of my favourite places to visit in Taiwan.

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1. Taipei

Taipei, Taiwan’s energetic capital, is a fascinating and fun place to explore.

Historical and cultural landmarks stand next to modern skyscrapers and lively night markets. The city offers both ancient traditions and cutting-edge attractions.

Start with Taipei 101, one of the world’s tallest buildings. Its observation deck provides panoramic views over the city, especially breathtaking at sunset.

For a dose of history and culture, visit the National Palace Museum. This renowned museum houses one of the largest collections of Chinese art and artefacts in the world.

Shilin Night Market is another must. Try Taiwanese street food classics like deep-fried stinky tofu, oyster omelettes, and bubble tea.

I spent my first month in Taiwan living in the quirky Neihu district in the north of the city. From here, I could walk along the river to the Raohe Street night market, which I did many evenings.

The black pepper buns there are worth the journey alone!

Autumn is the best season to explore Taipei’s sights, with mild temperatures making it comfortable to roam. I was there in December, and many days were a little too cold and rainy for my liking.

2. Taroko Gorge

Taroko Gorge is a natural marvel on Taiwan’s east coast, known for its marble canyons, dramatic cliffs, and rushing rivers. It’s one of Taiwan’s most famous destinations, and for good reason.

Swallow Grotto offers stunning cliffside views, with narrow tunnels that reveal the gorge’s deep beauty.

The Eternal Spring Shrine, with its cascading waterfall, is a serene place to pause and reflect.

The gorge’s trails range from easy walks to more challenging hikes. The Shakadang Trail is a scenic, beginner-friendly path along a turquoise river, while the Baiyang Trail leads to a waterfall in a cave.

3. Sun Moon Lake

Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan’s largest lake, is a beautiful destination surrounded by misty mountains and lush forests.

One of the best ways to explore is by renting a bike and cycling along the lakeside trails. The paths offer stunning lake views and have benches and picnic tables along the way.

Wenwu Temple is a striking structure overlooking the lake. The vast complex is full of traditional Chinese temple architecture.

It’s a working temple and a fascinating place to visit.

Autumn and spring are both great seasons to visit Sun Moon Lake, with clear skies and mild weather.

I stayed in a great little log cabin on the edge of Ita Thao village that I found on Airbnb.

4. Jiufen

Jiufen is a charming mountain town known for its narrow streets, traditional tea houses, and coastal views. It’s a place where you can step back in time and experience Taiwan’s rich history.

Stroll through Jiufen Old Street, lined with lantern-lit shops selling handmade crafts, snacks, and souvenirs. It’s especially atmospheric in the late afternoon as the sun sets.

Tea houses are a highlight in Jiufen. These traditional spots offer stunning views over the coast and serve a variety of Taiwanese teas, perfect for a relaxing break.

For the best views, visit in the late afternoon to watch the sunset over the ocean. The town’s hilltop location offers breathtaking vistas as the lights start to glow.

5. Alishan National Scenic Area

Alishan National Scenic Area is one of my favourite places to visit in Taiwan.

It’s one of Taiwan’s most picturesque spots, with its wild mountain scenery, misty forests, oolong tea plantations, and scenic mountain railway.

The Alishan Forest Railway is a highlight, winding through dense forests and offering views of towering trees and blooming cherry blossoms in spring.

Sunrise at Chushan is a must-see. Watching the sun rise over a sea of clouds, with mountains in the distance, is an unforgettable experience worth the early start.

Alishan also has several hiking trails, suitable for all levels. The paths lead through ancient cypress forests and scenic viewpoints, letting you fully immerse in the area’s natural beauty.

Visit in spring for cherry blossoms, though autumn is also pleasant. Book your train tickets early, as they’re popular and sell out quickly.

6. Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second-largest city, combines vibrant arts, modern architecture, and coastal attractions.

The Pier-2 Art Center is a must-visit. This former warehouse district is now filled with street art, galleries, and creative spaces that celebrate modern Taiwanese culture.

For a touch of spirituality, visit Fo Guang Shan Monastery, one of the largest Buddhist sites in Taiwan. It’s a peaceful place to explore temples, gardens, and a massive Buddha statue.

Lotus Pond is another popular spot, known for its colourful temples and iconic dragon and tiger pagodas.

7. Kenting National Park

Kenting National Park, located at Taiwan’s southern tip, offers pristine beaches, clear waters, and diverse marine life.

Baisha Beach is a favourite for its soft sands and turquoise waters. It’s ideal for sunbathing, swimming, or just relaxing with ocean views.

Eluanbi Lighthouse is a notable landmark within the park. Standing at Taiwan’s southernmost point, it offers panoramic views of the coast and surrounding landscapes.

For those interested in water activities, Nanwan Beach is great for snorkelling and diving. The waters here are filled with vibrant coral reefs and tropical fish.

Spring and autumn offer the best weather, as summer can be hot and crowded.

8. Tainan

Tainan is hands-down my favourite city in Taiwan. I spent a blissful month living here and was really sad when I had to leave.

Taiwan’s oldest city, it’s rich in history, temples, and traditional Taiwanese culture.

Be sure to try local specialities like beef soup, oyster omelettes, and milkfish balls for an authentic taste of Tainan.

Anping Fort is one of Tainan’s top attractions. Originally built by the Dutch in the 17th century, it’s an important historical site where you can learn about Taiwan’s colonial past.

Chihkan Tower is another historic landmark, blending Chinese and Western architecture. It’s a peaceful spot to wander through, surrounded by lush gardens.

Tainan is home to hundreds of temples, each with a different design and serving a different purpose.

The Tainan Confucius Temple was constructed in 1665 and was the first of its kind in Taiwan.

My apartment was close to the City God Temple (Taiwanfu Cheng Huang), another important temple in the city.

It has a wonderful atmosphere, and I loved going inside to admire the intricate carvings and observe the regular ceremonies.

9. Yangmingshan National Park

Yangmingshan National Park is a stunning escape near Taipei, known for its hot springs, volcanic landscapes, and seasonal flower displays.

Xiaoyoukeng is a popular spot in the park, with volcanic fumaroles, hot springs, and bubbling mud pools. The sulfuric steam and rugged landscape create an otherworldly experience.

For scenic views, hike up Qixing Mountain, the tallest peak in the park. The trail offers panoramic views of Taipei and the surrounding mountains, making it a rewarding climb.

Spring is especially beautiful in Yangmingshan, with cherry blossoms and vibrant azaleas in full bloom. Bring warm clothing, as temperatures can drop, especially at higher elevations.

10. Shifen Waterfall

Shifen Waterfall, often called the “Niagara of Taiwan,” is a breathtaking natural wonder surrounded by lush forests. It’s the widest waterfall in Taiwan and a popular spot among locals.

The waterfall is accessible via a scenic walk through forested paths and bridges. You’ll hear the roar of the falls well before you reach them, adding to the anticipation.

Shifen Old Street, located nearby, is famous for its sky lantern tradition. You can release a lantern with your wishes written on it, adding a touch of magic to your visit.

For a less crowded experience, visit on a weekday. Combining Shifen Waterfall with a trip to Jiufen makes for an ideal day trip filled with nature and cultural charm.

11. Maokong

Maokong is a scenic hillside area near Taipei, known for its lush tea plantations, sweeping views, and traditional tea houses. It’s an ideal spot for a relaxing escape from the city.

The Maokong Gondola offers a picturesque ride up the mountain, providing panoramic views over Taipei and the surrounding tea fields. Sunset is an especially beautiful time to take the gondola.

Once at the top, you’ll find a variety of tea houses where you can sample local teas while overlooking the scenic landscape. It’s a peaceful way to experience Taiwan’s rich tea culture.

Maokong also has several hiking trails that wind through tea plantations and forested areas.

12. Green Island

Green Island is a volcanic island off Taiwan’s east coast, known for its rugged coastline, natural hot springs, and excellent diving spots.

Zhaori Hot Springs, one of only a few seawater hot springs in the world, is a top attraction. Relax in the hot pools while enjoying views of the ocean — it’s particularly amazing at sunrise.

Green Island is surrounded by coral reefs and diverse marine life. Snorkelling and diving sites are plentiful, making it a fantastic spot for exploring Taiwan’s underwater world.

13. Beitou Hot Springs

Beitou is a natural hot spring area near Taipei, known for its relaxing hot baths and Japanese-inspired bathhouses. It’s a popular destination for those looking to unwind in a peaceful setting.

The Thermal Valley, or “Hell Valley,” is one of Beitou’s main attractions. This sulfuric hot spring emits steam that hovers above the water, creating an almost mystical atmosphere.

The Beitou Hot Springs Museum provides insight into the area’s history, originally developed during the Japanese colonial era.

Several public and private hot spring facilities offer baths in mineral-rich waters. Weekdays are generally quieter, allowing for a more peaceful experience.

14. Penghu Islands

The Penghu Islands, an archipelago in the Taiwan Strait, are renowned for their pristine beaches, clear blue waters, and traditional temples. 

Qimei Twin Hearts Stone Weir is one of Penghu’s most iconic landmarks. This heart-shaped stone structure, used for fishing, is both scenic and culturally significant.

Fenggui Cave offers a natural spectacle where waves crash through a volcanic rock opening, creating unique sounds and dramatic sprays of water.

Be sure to try the famous local seafood, too.

15. Lukang

Lukang is one of Taiwan’s oldest towns, known for its historic architecture, traditional crafts, and rich cultural heritage.

Longshan Temple, one of Taiwan’s finest examples of traditional temple architecture, is a must-visit.

The temple’s intricate wood carvings and serene courtyards make it a peaceful and culturally significant stop.

Lukang Old Street is perfect for a leisurely stroll, lined with traditional buildings, craft shops, and street food vendors.

Mazu Temple, dedicated to the sea goddess, is another important site. It’s an active place of worship with a lively atmosphere and beautiful artwork.

16. Hualien

Hualien is a coastal city near Taroko Gorge and a great base for exploring Taiwan’s stunning east coast.

Dongdamen Night Market is a highlight in Hualien, offering a wide variety of local foods and snacks.

Qixingtan Beach, with its pebble shoreline and clear blue waters, offers a peaceful escape and scenic ocean views. It’s a lovely spot for a relaxing afternoon by the sea.

Hualien is also the main gateway to Taroko Gorge. It’s an easy bus ride (or scooter ride) away, making it an ideal base for exploring the gorge.

17. Yilan

Yilan is a scenic region with a focus on nature and wellness, perfect for a relaxing break.

Jiaoxi Hot Springs is one of Yilan’s main attractions. It has public and private bathhouses where you can soak in mineral-rich waters (especially enjoyable in cooler weather!).

The Kavalan Whiskey Distillery is a popular stop for anyone interested in Taiwan’s award-winning whiskey. Tours provide a behind-the-scenes look at the distillation process and include tastings.

Dongshan River Water Park is ideal for family outings, with boat rides, picnic spots, and seasonal festivals. The park offers a relaxing day surrounded by Yilan’s beautiful scenery.

18. Nantou

Nantou is an inland county surrounded by mountains and forests.

Sun Moon Lake (above) is located in Nantou, but that’s not the only place that’s worth visiting here.

Xitou Forest Recreation Area is a lush forest park with towering trees, bamboo groves, and hiking trails. It’s a lovely place for leisurely walks and bird-watching.

Cingjing Farm, set in the highlands, is known for its alpine scenery, cool climate, and herds of grazing sheep.

19. Taichung

Several young Taiwanese people I met said that Taichung was their favourite city in Taiwan. Sadly, I ran out of time and wasn’t able to visit it on my last trip, but I’m definitely going to visit next time.

Rainbow Village is a must-visit for its colourful, whimsical murals created by a local veteran.

The National Taichung Theater, with its unique architecture, is a centre for arts and culture. Guided tours allow you to explore the building’s design and learn about its cultural significance.

Gaomei Wetlands, just outside the city, is an ideal spot to watch the sunset and spot migratory birds. The boardwalk provides close views of the tidal flats and surrounding scenery.

20. Taitung

Taitung, on Taiwan’s east coast, is known for its natural landscapes, indigenous culture, and laid-back vibe. It’s a peaceful destination where you can connect with nature and local traditions.

Sanxiantai is a scenic area with a unique arched bridge leading to small offshore islands. The views here are stunning, especially at sunrise or sunset.

The East Coast Scenic Area offers dramatic coastal views and opportunities for hiking. It’s a beautiful stretch of cliffs, sea caves, and beach coves.

Taitung Forest Park provides a relaxing green space with cycling paths and quiet trails.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

Taiwan offers an incredible blend of attractions, from the vibrant energy of its cities and historic sites to the serene beauty of its mountains, beaches, and hot springs. 

Whether you’re exploring bustling night markets, hiking through marble gorges, or relaxing in traditional tea houses, Taiwan provides a uniquely rich experience.

Check out some of my other posts on Taiwan and let me help you plan an unforgettable trip!

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