The Perfect 2 Week Taiwan Itinerary (2024 Guide)

Check out this detailed and customizable 2 week Taiwan itinerary that includes the highlights of this incredible island!

Taiwan, an island nation in East Asia, is a captivating blend of rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural landscapes, and vibrant modernity.

From its bustling cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung to its serene countryside dotted with lush mountains, hot springs, and picturesque coastlines, Taiwan offers so many cool experiences for travelers.

This 2 week Taiwan itinerary takes you around the island so you can get a comprehensive introduction to the nation. You’ll have time in cities, small towns, and national parks as you explore Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, Kaohsiung, Hengchun, Hualien, and more.

Check out our recommendations for how to spend 2 weeks in Taiwan!

The Ultimate Guide To 2 Weeks In Taiwan

Here is our ultimate 2 week itinerary for exploring the highlights of Taiwan. We’ll include suggestions for accommodation and how to get around via public transport, rental car, or booking tours.

How to get around during 2 weeks in Taiwan

Getting around Taiwan is relatively easy, thanks to its well-developed transportation infrastructure. You can choose how you want to travel during your 2 week Taiwan itinerary! The main options are rental car or train for traveling long distances around the island. Metro, bus, or taxi are available for getting around within cities.

Rental Car

A rental car is the easiest option because you’re fully in charge of your own schedule. You can drive wherever you want whenever you want, which makes your Taiwan itinerary super flexible.

You don’t necessarily need a car in Taipei, as it is a big, developed city with good public transport. A popular way to explore Taiwan may be to spend a few days in Taipei, then rent a car to continue on your road trip around the island.

Or you can rent a car right when you arrive at Taoyuan International Airport and just have that vehicle for the duration of your Taiwan itinerary. But for those who aren’t super comfortable driving in foreign countries, public transport and tours are available as well!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars, which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Train for traveling between cities

One of the most convenient ways to travel between cities is by train. The high-speed rail (HSR) connects major destinations such as Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung, and more. The HSR offers fast and comfortable rides, though it is a bit more expensive than the standard train.

Additionally, Taiwan’s extensive railway network provides access to various towns and scenic areas, offering travelers the chance to explore the island’s diverse landscapes and cultural sites.

You can easily do this 2 week itinerary using just public transport, with train being the main travel method between cities.

If you are taking train journeys during your two weeks in Taiwan, try to book your tickets in advance to ensure the journey isn’t sold out, especially on weekends!

Bus, metro, or taxi for traveling within cities

Within cities, Taiwan offers efficient public transportation systems, including buses and metros.

Taipei boasts an extensive metro system, known as the Taipei Metro or MRT, which covers most areas of the city and its suburbs. The MRT is clean, reliable, and easy to navigate, making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists.

In addition to the metro system, buses serve as a convenient mode of transportation, with routes reaching every corner of the city and beyond. For day trips outside of Taipei, the public bus is the most popular public transport option.

For those seeking a more flexible option, taxis and ride-sharing services are also available throughout Taiwan. They are, of course, a more expensive option so you’d only want to take a taxi for short distances if you’re traveling on a budget.

Guided tours

Guided tours are also handy for taking day trips and exploring within cities. If you don’t want to rent a car or take public transport, you can book fully guided experiences that also include the benefit of a knowledgeable local guide.

Tours are also a pricier option, so you may only want to book a few here and there throughout your 2 week itinerary. We’ll include plenty of tour options for those who do prefer the convenience and enhanced experience of a guided tour with transport!

2 Week Taiwan Itinerary

Now let’s get into the itinerary! This Taiwan itinerary involves a bit of hopping around so you can see as much of the island as possible in two weeks! At the end, we’ll provide some modifications if you’d prefer to travel more slowly.

Also, every traveler is different and has their own preferences. So we’ll also recommend some ways to spend more time in nature or spend more time in cities. Use this Taiwan itinerary as a guideline so you can curate your perfect adventure!

Day 1-5: Taipei (2 day trips)

Begin your 2 week itinerary in Taipei, the capital city of Taiwan. Around 5 days is a great amount of time for getting acquainted with the city and taking a couple of day trips.

Taipei has a captivating blend of tradition and modernity, where ancient temples stand alongside sleek skyscrapers. There is so much to see and do, from night markets to unique neighborhoods to historic monuments and more.

Here are some of the top activities to include during your 5 days in Taipei! You can do as much or as little as you like before heading off on the rest of your Taiwan itinerary.

Check out this 3 Days in Taipei Itinerary for more inspiration!

Free walking tours

Walking tours are the perfect introduction to any new city. Taipei has two amazing free walking tour companies to choose from. Both companies offer a range of free walking tours where you can explore the city, chat with your local guide, and learn about the area’s history and culture.

TourMeAway has a historic Old Town walking tour and also a Longshan Temple cultural walking tour. They also offer pub crawls and private tours!

Like It Formosa has another great historic walking tour, as well as private tours and food tours of Taipei.

Taipei 101

For the best views of Taipei City, visit the tallest skyscraper in Taiwan!

Formerly the tallest building in the world, this architectural marvel dominates Taipei’s skyline with its unique design inspired by traditional Asian pagodas and bamboo. The observation decks are the main draw, as you get an excellent aerial view of the city.

Museums and landmarks

Another great way to explore Taipei is visiting the various museums and cultural landmarks. Here are a few of the city’s top attractions!

National Palace Museum

The National Palace Museum is a must-visit during your Taipei itinerary. It houses one of the most extensive collections of Chinese imperial artifacts and artworks in the world. Visitors can marvel at treasures spanning thousands of years, including ancient bronzes, exquisite ceramics, delicate jade carvings, and renowned calligraphy scrolls.

Taipei Fine Arts Museum

Art lovers can also visit the Taipei Fine Arts Museum, dedicated to contemporary Taiwanese and international art. The museum showcases paintings, sculptures, multimedia installations and more, providing a platform for both established and emerging artists to showcase their talents.

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall stands as a majestic tribute to the former leader of the Republic of China, situated at the heart of Taipei. Visitors can explore the vast plaza, home to the National Concert Hall and the National Theater. The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall itself houses a museum displaying artifacts, photographs, and documents chronicling Chiang’s life and the evolution of Taiwan under his leadership.

Longshan Temple

As the oldest and most famous temple in Taipei, Longshan Temple (also called Bangka Lungshan Temple or just Lungshan Temple) is another must-visit. The temple is an architectural masterpiece as well as an important religious, cultural, and spiritual monument. It’s free to enter Longshan Temple, but remember to wear modest clothing to respect the culture!

Parks and gardens

Taiwan’s capital city is home to several exquisite parks and gardens for those in need of some greenery.

One such gem is Daan Forest Park, a sprawling green space in the heart of the city. Boasting lush vegetation, serene ponds, and meandering pathways, Daan Forest Park provides a tranquil retreat for outdoor activities.

Taipei Botanical Garden is another lovely option. The garden has a diverse collection of both indigenous and exotic plant species, as well as themed areas including a bamboo garden, aquatic plants section, and tropical rainforest zone.

Dajia Riverside Park, located on the banks of the Keelung River, is another great place to go for a walk and get some fresh air while you visit Taipei.

Night markets

You’ll probably visit plenty of markets during your 2 weeks in Taiwan, but here are some Taipei options to get the ball rolling! Most night markets in Taiwan open at 5pm and run until 11pm or later.

You can find lots of delicious street food as well as souvenirs, drinks, and other goods at a night market. Foodies can even join a guided walking tour and try local dishes at a night market if they want a more immersive experience.

But during your 5 days in Taipei, try to visit at least one or two of these iconic markets. They are scattered all over the city so you’re sure to find somewhere that’s near your accommodation!

• Shilin Night Market, Shilin District – the largest and most famous market
• Huaxi Night Market, Wanhua District – conveniently located near Longshan Temple
• Raohe Night Market, Songshan District – a historic market
• Ningxia Night Market, Datong District – a smaller market of just one street
• Nanjichang Night Market, Zhongzheng District – one of the cheapest markets

Hike Elephant Mountain

An excellent addition to any Taiwan itinerary is hiking Elephant Mountain. Located just on the outskirts of Taipei near the Taipei 101 Observatory, this short but steep hike rewards you with breathtaking views of the city.

Depending on your fitness level, the Elephant Mountain hike is around 30-50 minutes. For the best natural colors, do the hike at sunrise or sunset!

Day trips from Taipei

With 5 days in Taipei, you’ll have plenty of time for a day trip or two! The two most recommended day trips from Taipei are:

• Yangmingshan National Park & Beitou Hot Springs
• Jiufen & Shifen Waterfall (and Yehliu Geopark if you have time)

Yangmingshan National Park and Beitou Hot Springs are both north of the Taipei city centre, whereas Jiufen and Shifen Waterfall are both east of the city centre. Yehliu Geopark is northeast and can be combined with Jiufen and Shifen Waterfall.

Here is some more info about these day trip recommendations!

Yangmingshan National Park

• Driving time from Taipei: 25 minutes – 1 hour depending where in the park you go
• Public transport: Bus from Taipei Main Station, Jiantan, Shilin, Shipai, or Xinbeitou MRT Stations
• Tour: Beitou Hot Springs and Yangmingshan Volcano Tour

Full of mountains, volcanoes, hiking trails, hot springs, wildflowers, and lush green fields, there is so much to see and do in Yangmingshan National Park.

Visitors can embark on scenic hikes along well-marked trails, such as the popular Xiaoyoukeng Trail, which leads to a mesmerizing volcanic crater with steaming fumaroles. Those looking for more challenging hikes can conquer the peaks of Mount Datun or Mount Qixing as well!

Additionally, Yangmingshan is renowned for its vibrant flora, with seasonal displays of cherry blossoms, azaleas, and rhododendrons painting the hillsides. Viewing the cherry blossoms at Flower Clock or soaking in the scenery at the Qingtiangang grasslands are also highlights of the park.

Beitou Hot Springs

• Driving time from Taipei: Around 40 minutes
• Public transport: Take the metro to the Xinbeitou MRT station
• Tour: Beitou Hot Springs and Yangmingshan Volcano Tour

On the way back to Taipei, do yourself a favor and stop at Beitou Hot Springs for a rejuvenating evening in a natural hot spring.

Renowned for their therapeutic properties, these natural geothermal springs have attracted visitors for centuries seeking relief from ailments and stress.

Beyond the hot springs, Beitou offers charming attractions such as the Beitou Hot Spring Museum, which provides insight into the history and cultural significance of the area’s thermal springs.

Jiufen

• Driving time from Taipei: Around 1 hour
• Public transport: Bus from MRT Zhongxiao Fuxing Station
• Tour: Jiufen Night View and Shifen Day Tour

Another one of the best day trips from Taipei is Jiufen, a picturesque village perched on the verdant hillsides overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Renowned for its narrow cobblestone streets, traditional teahouses, and stunning ocean views, you’ll find a more relaxed pace of life here than in the city.

Once a prosperous gold mining town, Jiufen’s quaint alleyways are now lined with boutique shops, street food vendors, historic buildings, and enticing tea houses.

Spend a few hours wandering the scenic streets, sipping tea, tasting local food delicacies, and learning about the history and culture of this beautiful country.

Shifen Waterfall and Shifen Old Street

• Driving time from Taipei: 40 minutes
• Public transport: Train from Taipei Main Station
• Tour: Jiufen Night View and Shifen Day Tour

Just 40 minutes away from Jiufen is Shifen Waterfall, a highlight of northern Taiwan. As one of Taiwan’s most scenic waterfalls, Shifen plunges dramatically over a horseshoe-shaped cliff, creating a mesmerizing spectacle of natural beauty. Surrounding the waterfall is a tranquil forested area, providing a serene backdrop for leisurely walks and picnics.

Visitors can also explore the nearby Shifen Old Street, a charming village renowned for its historic railway line and iconic sky lanterns.

From Shifen Waterfall, walk a few minutes down the road to Shifen Old Street. This charming village is set on a historic railway line and is known for its sky lantern tradition. Here, visitors can write their wishes on colorful lanterns before releasing them into the sky.

Yehliu Geopark

• Driving time from Taipei: 40 minutes
• Public transport:
• Tour: Shifen, Jiufen, and Yehliu Guided Day Trip

Yehliu Geopark is a geological wonderland renowned for its otherworldly rock formations and stunning coastal landscapes.

Shaped by centuries of natural erosion and weathering, the park is home to an array of unique rock formations, including the iconic “Queen’s Head” and “Candle Rock,” which have been sculpted into fantastical shapes by the forces of nature.

Visitors can wander along the park’s well-maintained pathways, marveling at the intricate patterns and textures of the rocks while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding sea.

This makes a great half-day trip from Taipei, or you can combine it with your visit to Shifen Waterfall and Jiufen as it’s in a similar area!

Private day tour

Another option is booking a private day tour of northern Taiwan from Taipei. You can help plan the itinerary and choose which attractions and sights you’d like to visit on your day out of the city!

This is the perfect option for couples or small groups who don’t want a busy group tour, but don’t feel like renting a car and driving themselves. You’ll have a private driver guide to bring you to the best sights.

Where to Stay in Taipei

Here are some accommodation options for a range of budgets. The city is quite large and spread out, so ideally you’d want to stay somewhere central near Taipei Main Station. That will make it easier to hop around and take transport.

But if you have a rental car and you’d prefer somewhere more secluded, you can also find accommodations in quieter parts of the city’s outskirts. A homestay, guesthouse, or Airbnb is also an amazing option where you can stay with locals and have a more intimate, personalised experience!

But for those hoping to stay in downtown Taipei, here are some of the best options.

Budget: Old Door Hostel and Bar

Old Door Hostel and Bar is one of the top-rated hostels for those who want to save money. With a rustic, cozy common area, free Wifi, and a convenient location near Taipei Main Station, this place has everything budget travelers may need!

Mid-range: Evergreen Laurel Hotel

For a more upscale stay in Taipei, Evergreen Laurel Hotel has affordable prices in the heart of the city center. With warm, modern furnishings, friendly staff, room service, and an airport shuttle, you’re getting great value for money here.

Luxury: San Want Residences

If you want a five-star treatment in your own Taipei studio apartment, look no further than San Want Residences. When you stay in the spacious studio apartments here, you can enjoy the on-site fitness center, art gallery, business centre, and all-day complimentary coffee and tea in the lounge.

Day 6 & 7: Taichung and Sun Moon Lake

Now that we’ve covered 5 days in Taipei, it’s time to continue on your Taiwan trip! Whether you’ve got a rental car, you’re about to hire one for the rest of the Taiwan itinerary, or you’re boarding the train, it’s time to head down the West Coast towards Taichung. It’s about 2 hours from Taipei to Taichung.

Taichung is another one of the largest Taiwanese cities and is known as the gateway to Sun Moon Lake. Spend 2 days here, with one day exploring the city and one day venturing out to the iconic lake.

Things To Do In Taichung

While spending a couple of days in Taichung, here are some of the top attractions you may want to include! You’ll definitely want to take a day trip out to Sun Moon Lake while visiting Taichung as well.

Rainbow Village

Rainbow Village is a vibrant and whimsical art installation in Taichung that is one of the most adorable things to see while visiting Taiwan.

Originally a modest settlement built for military veterans, the village was transformed into an open-air art gallery by one resident, Huang Yung-Fu, affectionately known as “Grandpa Rainbow.” He painted every surface of Rainbow Village with playful murals, whimsical characters, and intricate designs, transforming the plain buildings into a colorful masterpiece.

National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts

The National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts, situated in the cultural heart of Taichung, showcases the diverse and vibrant world of Taiwanese and international art. Established in 1988, this sprawling museum has a rich collection of artworks spanning various genres, mediums, and periods.

From traditional Chinese paintings and calligraphy to modern sculptures and multimedia installations, the museum allows travelers to engage with the local history, culture, and design.

Zhongshe Flower Market

This picturesque destination captivates visitors with its rows of flower beds, including colorful roses, sunflowers, tulips, and more.

Zhongshe Flower Market also offers a range of attractions, including funny photo spots, decorative windmills, and quaint pavilions where visitors can relax and take in the serene countryside scenery.

It’s located about 40 minutes north of Taichung, so you could also stop here on your drive from Taipei to Taichung as it’s on the way!

Feng Chia Night Market

Taiching is home to Taiwan’s biggest night market, Feng Chia. A hub of shopping, dining, and entertainment, the market is packed with maze-like alleys of food stalls, fashion boutiques, and game booths.

Here you can embark on a culinary adventure, shop for souvenirs, watch street performers, and just soak in the chaotic but exciting energy of this iconic market.

Read next: 15 Awesome Things to Do in Taipei, Taiwan

Day Trip to Sun Moon Lake

• Driving time from Taichung: 1.5 hours
• Public transport: Bus or train from Taichung Train Station
• Tour: Sun Moon Lake & Qingjing Farm Shared Tour

Sun Moon Lake is one of the most popular sights on any Taiwan 2 week itinerary. As Taiwan’s largest alpine lake, this stunning natural wonder is a beautiful place to visit on a day trip.

Stroll along the lakeside promenade or rent a bicycle and cycle around the scenic trails. Or take to the water and explore on a paddleboard!

But catching boat rides around the Sun Moon Lake is the best way to cover the most ground. You can book a hop on hop off boat ticket and spend the whole day cruising around this beautiful body of water.

Also be sure to check out Wenwu Temple on the northern shores of the lake. This architectural marvel and spiritual relic is not only a fascinating landmark, it also provides the best views of Sun Moon Lake.

Where to Stay in Taichung

Taichung is a sprawling city, so there are lots of accommodation options. It’s also cheaper than Taipei! You can stay anywhere around the city, but you may want to be near a bus station or metro station so you can hop around to different areas without a car.

Budget: Allegro Hostel

Save money during your Taiwan itinerary by staying at Allegro Hostel! You can stay in private rooms for super cheap prices and still enjoy nice amenities and a great location near public transport.

Mid-range: Green Hotel West District

This eco-friendly, centrally located hotel offers amazing value for a lovely stay. Green Hotel West District has clean, modern stylings, air conditioning, free Wifi, and 24/7 service.

Luxury: Dream 12 Hotel

Dream 12 Hotel offers a luxurious stay in a nice area between Taichung’s North District and Central District. With excellent service, public transport and attractions within walking distance or a short drive, and stunning amenities such as swan feather bedding and an LCD TV, this hotel has everything you need!

Day 8: Tainan City – 1 day on the way to Kaohsiung

From Taichung, continue south towards Kaohsiung which is where you’ll spend the next two days. It’s only about 2.5 hours between Taichung and Kaohsiung, so you can stop in Tainan along the way to spend a few hours exploring another one of Taiwan’s cities.

Things To Do In Tainan

Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city, is a treasure trove of historical landmarks, cultural attractions, and culinary delights. If you choose to stop in Tainan on your 2 week itinerary, here are some sights you may want to include during your day of exploring.

Anping Old Street

Welcome to the oldest street in Taiwan! This charming alley is lined with traditional red-brick buildings, ancient temples, and quirky shops.

Visitors can wander through the maze-like alleys, immersing themselves in the rich history of the area, which was once a bustling trading port during the Dutch colonial era. Nearby, Anping Fort provides a glimpse into Taiwan’s military history, with well-preserved ramparts and cannons overlooking the waterfront.

Luermen Mazu Temple

Luermen Mazu Temple, located in Tainan’s Anping District, is dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea and protector of fishermen. This historic temple has a rich history dating back over three centuries.

Inside, worshippers and visitors alike pay their respects to Mazu and offer prayers for safe voyages and prosperity. The temple’s vibrant atmosphere, especially during annual festivals honoring Mazu, provides a fascinating glimpse into Taiwan’s cultural traditions and spiritual practices.

Shennong Old Street

Named after the legendary Chinese deity Shennong, Shennong Old Street is home to well-preserved Qing Dynasty-era buildings, traditional temples, and quaint shops selling a variety of local goods and handicrafts. Visitors can wander through the narrow cobblestone lanes and get a dose of history during their Taiwan 2 week itinerary!

Chihkan Tower

For a deeper dive into Tainan’s past, visit Chihkan Tower. This historic site, also known as Fort Provintia, served as the administrative center during the Dutch and Qing dynasties and now houses a museum showcasing artifacts and exhibits related to Tainan’s colonial history.

Hua Yuan Night Market

No visit to Tainan is complete without indulging in its famous street food, especially because the city is often considered the “food capital of Taiwan.” Visitors can embark on a gastronomic adventure at Hua Yuan Night Market, feasting on local specialties such as coffin bread, oyster omelettes, and savory rice cakes.

If you’re heading to Mainland China, check out our Complete China Travel Guide!

Day 9 – 12: Kaohsiung – 3 days

After exploring Tainan for the day, continue south to Kaohsiung where you’ll find your accommodation and hang out for the next 3 days of your 2 week itinerary.

Things To Do In Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second biggest city, is a vibrant metropolis on the island’s southwestern coast. Renowned for its bustling port, Kaohsiung seamlessly blends industrial prowess with natural beauty, boasting picturesque waterfronts, lush parks, and iconic landmarks. Here are the top activities to include in your 3 days here!

Dragon and Tiger Pagodas

This is probably the most famous sight in the city. Situated on the shores of Lotus Pond, these ornate structures capture the essence of traditional Chinese temple design. As visitors pass through the jaws of the Dragon and Tiger entrances, they are believed to symbolically cleanse themselves of past troubles and emerge reborn.

Inside, vibrant murals depict scenes from Buddhist mythology and offer glimpses into ancient wisdom. You can also climb to the top of the two pagodas for amazing views!

Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum

The Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum is a magnificent testament to Buddhist culture, philosophy, and artistry. This sprawling complex serves as a pilgrimage site and cultural landmark, and houses an extensive collection of Buddhist artifacts, scriptures, and statues.

At the heart of the museum stands the towering statue of Amitabha Buddha, one of the tallest bronze statues in the world. Surrounding the statue, visitors can explore beautiful landscaped gardens, tranquil ponds, and ornate pavilions.

Ruifeng Night Market

Ruifeng Night Market is like a foodie paradise that really comes to life when the sun goes down. You can’t help but be drawn in by the incredible smells and sounds that fill the air, pulling you into a world of delicious street eats.

And it’s not just about the food – you can also score some awesome finds while browsing through stalls selling everything from trendy clothes to quirky souvenirs.

Cijin Island

Another cool place to visit on your 2 week itinerary of Taiwan is Cijin Island, a hidden gem just a short ferry ride away from Kaohsiung. As you step off the ferry, you’re greeted by sandy beaches, picturesque bike paths, and charming seafood stalls serving up fresh catches of the day.

A fun way to explore the island is by bike! There are lots of bike rental shops on the main street when you get off the ferry. Once you’ve got your wheels, spend a few hours cruising around this beautiful island.

Historic landmarks, like the Cijin Lighthouse and Fort Cijin, offer a glimpse into its rich cultural heritage. Be sure to check out the cool shells and artifacts at the Cijin Shell Museum, walk through the cool contemporary art installation known as Rainbow Church, and admire the amazing murals in Linya Street Art Village.

Day Trip to Kenting National Park

• Driving time from Kaohsiung: 2 hours
• Public transport: The Kenting Express Bus travels directly between Kaohsiung and Kenting National Park
• Tour: Classic Kenting Day Tour from Kaohsiung

If you want to dedicate one of your days in Kaohsiung to exploring the southern tip of Taiwan, take a day trip to this beautiful seaside national park. Kenting National Park is a natural wonderland of stunning coastline, pristine beaches, and vibrant coral reefs.

Visitors can explore scenic hiking trails that wind through lush forests, discover hidden waterfalls, or venture underwater to witness the colorful marine life thriving in the park’s clear blue waters. Go surfing at Xiaowan Beach, watch the sunset from Maobitou Park, or just get lost and admire the tranquil coastal views.

You can also try lots of water sports in the park, including paddleboarding, whale watching, snorkelling, and scuba diving.

Beyond its natural beauty, Kenting is also steeped in cultural significance, with historical landmarks like the Eluanbi Lighthouse and Longpan Park providing glimpses into the region’s rich heritage.

Where to stay in Kaohsiung

The most convenient area to stay in the city is near Kaohsiung Main Station. You’ll be right in the heart of the city within walking distance or a short metro ride to the central train station, which makes it easy to get around.

Again, if you have a car, you have more flexibility to stay in some more secluded guesthouses or Airbnbs further out of the city.

Budget: Ahiruyah Guesthouse

For a nice but affordable stay in Kaohsiung when you visit Taiwan, this lovely guesthouse near the main train station has you covered. It’s a cozy hostel that offers cheap dorms and nice private rooms for couples.

Mid-range: The Cloud Hotel

This futuristic and impressive hotel is tastefully designed yet doesn’t cost a fortune. The Cloud Hotel is right in the heart of the city and has free breakfast, excellent staff, and quality amenities.

Luxury: Grand Hi Lai Hotel

The Grand Hi Lai Hotel is a stunning property with world class service. Guests can enjoy the onsite spa, fitness centre, swimming pool, and beautiful rooms with sea views!

Day 13 & 14: Hualien

From Kaohsiung, it’s time to head north up the East Coast. You have one more stop on your itinerary before you return to Taipei and finish up your time in Taiwan.

This is the longest travel day you’ll have, as it’s about 6.5 hours driving from Kaohsiung to Hualien. If you’re taking public transport, you can book a train from Kaohsiung Main Station to Hualien Train Station and arrive in about 4.5 or 5 hours.

Things To Do In Hualien

Hualien is another one of the major cities in Taiwan. You can spend a day exploring the city’s highlights and spend one day exploring the nearby wonder of Taroko National Park. Here are the top activities and sights in Hualien!

Qixingtan Beach

Qixingtan Beach, with its sweeping crescent of golden sand and sapphire waters, is a serene oasis on Hualien’s coastline. It’s located just north of the city center and is accessible via public transport.

Liyu Lake

For nature lovers, you can head 30 minutes outside town to the beautiful Liyu Lake. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride or scenic bike ride around Liyu Lake, surrounded by stunning mountains and offering opportunities for fishing and birdwatching.

Pine Garden

Another way to soak in the natural beauty of Hualien is wandering through the historic buildings and landscaped greenery of Pine Garden, a former Japanese military officer’s residence turned cultural heritage site.

Hualien Cultural and Creative Industries Park

If you’re looking for a dose of art and culture, check out the Hualien Cultural and Creative Industries Park. Browse through local handicrafts, art galleries, and boutique shops housed in beautifully restored warehouses at this cultural hub.

Shrines and Temples

Hualien is also home to some stunning shrines and temples. The magnificent Hualien Martyrs’ Shrine and the historic Ji’an Qingxiu Temple are some of the most impressive landmarks in the city. The Sheng An Temple is a beautiful Taoist landmark and the Xiangde Temple is surrounded by lush mountain scenery.

Dongdamen Night Market

This iconic night market in the city offers a feast for the senses. Amidst the delicious food aromas, visitors can also peruse a variety of merchandise, including clothing, accessories, and souvenirs, while immersing themselves in the lively atmosphere.

Read next: 26 AWESOME Things to Do in Beijing, China

Day Trip to Taroko Gorge National Park

• Driving time from Hualien: 40 minutes
• Public transport: Public shuttle bus from Hualien Train Station
• Tour: Taroko Gorge English-Guided Tour From Hualien

Aside from the attractions in the city, the main reason why travelers visit Hualien is to explore Taroko Gorge National Park!

Carved by the Liwu River over millions of years, Taroko Gorge stretches for 19 kilometers through towering marble cliffs, plunging valleys, and cascading waterfalls, earning it the nickname “The Marble Gorge.”

Hikers can explore an extensive network of trails in the park. The hikes offer breathtaking views of the gorge and allow you to discover hidden shrines, temples, and dramatic rock formations along the way.

The Shakadang Trail is only 4km and is one of the most beautiful trails in the park. Ambitious hikers can take on the Zhuili Old Trail, which is 10km long and snakes along a dramatic cliffside.

Cultural enthusiasts can delve into the rich history and traditions of Taiwan’s indigenous peoples at the Taroko National Park Headquarters, where interactive exhibits and guided tours offer insights into the region’s heritage and conservation efforts.

One of the park’s most iconic attractions is the Eternal Spring Shrine, also called Changchun Shrine. Perched precariously on a cliffside, it’s one of the most notable landmarks in the park. Whatever you choose to do, Taroko Gorge is an absolute must on any Taiwan itinerary!

Where to stay in Hualien City

Here are some of the top accommodation options in Hualien where you can spend your last few nights in Taiwan.

Budget: Xiang Pin Hotel

You can find some really cheap hotels in Hualien, Xiang Pin Hotel being one of them. Stay right in the heart of the city near the best attractions and enjoy your own private room and bathroom for a super affordable price.

Mid-range: 1999 B&B

For a cozy, homey experience in the city, choose the 1999 B&B. With a range of double rooms and a family room, here you can stay amidst the adorable decor and enjoy free Wifi, free toiletries, and a restaurant and terrace on site.

Luxury: Shanghai Time

There aren’t many high-end luxury hotels in Hualien, but you can get the nicest hotels and guesthouses in the city for very affordable prices or you can rent your own villa. Shanghai Time is an entire villa with mountain views, quirky decorations, and quality amenities.

Return to Taipei

After 2 days in Hualien, continue driving north up the East Coast and return to Taipei! Or take the train or bus from Hualien to Taipei. There are lots of options as it’s a popular route, and the journey is only about 2.5 hours.

On your drive north, consider a stop at the stunning Qingshui Cliff, located just 45 minutes north of Hualien. Here you can admire a final panoramic view of the bright blue waters and rugged coastline before you head back into the city!

2 Weeks In Taiwan Itinerary Modifications

Here are some suggestions for modifying your Taiwan itinerary to suit your travel style!

If you prefer less travel time…

If you want less driving and moving around, you could cut out the southern part of the island and just drive from Taichung across to Hualien which is 5 hours. This 2 week itinerary would look something like this:

• 7 days in Taipei (with more time for day trips and exploring the city)
• 3 days in Taichung
• 4 days in Hualien City (with more time for exploring Taroko National Park)

If you prefer more time in nature…

Some people are not huge city lovers, and our 2 week Taiwan itinerary does include quite a few cities.

One way to modify the itinerary to include more time outdoors is to just spend fewer days in Taipei. Beach lovers can then add more days to their time in Hengchun in the south, and hiking lovers could add more days to one of the various national parks.

Alishan also offers amazing trekking. So during your drive down the East Coast of Taiwan, you could skip Taichung or Tainan and instead spend a day or two hiking in Alishan.

If you prefer more time in cities…

For those who prefer the hustle and bustle of a city, you can easily modify this 2 weeks in Taiwan itinerary. Just remove any of the waterfalls, lakes, and national parks and spend more time sightseeing!

For example, you could skip Taroko National Park and spend 2 whole days exploring Hualien City, which has so many cool things to do.

Or you could skip Sun Moon Lake and spend 2 whole days exploring Taichung. There are so many options to create your perfect 2 week itinerary for Taiwan!

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