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Must See Places and Best Things to Do in Taiwan

  • Apr 27
  • 4 min read

From the neon-lit energy of its cityscapes to the serene beauty of its temples, Taiwan is an island of incredible contrasts. It’s a destination that buzzes with innovation while cherishing its rich cultural heritage. Whether you're a foodie on a mission to find the world’s best street food, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking an adventure that feels both thrillingly new and wonderfully welcoming, Taiwan delivers. Get ready to explore a place where every laneway and night market has a story to tell.


cinematic shot, Taipei 101 skyscraper piercing through low clouds at dusk, Taipei Taiwan, warm city lights glowing below, portrait

Taipei: The Unstoppable Heartbeat of Taiwan

As the vibrant capital, Taipei is a sprawling metropolis that seamlessly blends the old with the new. One moment you're gazing up at the bamboo-inspired architecture of Taipei 101, and the next you're wandering through the incense-filled halls of a centuries-old temple. It's a city of endless discovery and an absolute must for any first-time visitor. For those who love to party, the area around Taipei 101 is filled with bars and clubs. For those who love the great outdoors, head to Tamsui near the north end of the red MRT line, or go for hikes of the breathtaking Yangmingshan. Ready to travel a little further? A couple hours out you can visit Jiufen, a beautiful mountainside village that is said to be the inspiration for studio Ghibli’s spirited away.


street photography, bustling Raohe Night Market entrance, Taipei Taiwan, glowing red lanterns and crowds of people, landscape

Best foodie finds

Taipei is a food lover's paradise. Start your culinary journey at Din Tai Fung for their world-famous xiao long bao (soup dumplings). For a more local experience, dive into the chaos of the Shilin or Raohe Night Markets. Must-tries include flame-torched beef cubes, crispy XXL fried chicken, and the legendary stinky tofu (if you dare!). Don't leave without slurping down a bowl of rich, flavourful beef noodle soup on Yongkang Street.


Getting around

The Taipei Metro (MRT) is a traveller's dream. It's clean, efficient, and incredibly easy to navigate with English signage. Purchase an EasyCard from any station, top it up, and you can tap your way across the city, including on buses and to attractions like the Maokong Gondola.


Kaohsiung: Where Art and Industry Collide

Down on the southern coast, Kaohsiung offers a more laid-back, artsy vibe. This massive port city has transformed its industrial spaces into thriving cultural hubs, creating a unique landscape where modern art installations sit against a backdrop of harbour life. The weather is warmer, the streets are wider, and the atmosphere is wonderfully relaxed.


vibrant daytime shot, Dragon and Tiger Pagodas at Lotus Pond, Kaohsiung Taiwan, clear blue sky reflected in the water, landscape

Visitors walk along a tiled pedestrian bridge lined with traditional red pavilions and stone guardian statues toward a massive, colorful statue of a Taoist deity at Lotus Pond in Kaohsiung, Taiwan, with the city skyline visible in the background under a clear sky.

Culture & landmarks

Your first stop should be the Pier-2 Art Center, a sprawling former warehouse district now filled with quirky sculptures, galleries, and independent shops. Next, head to the Lotus Pond to marvel at the iconic Dragon and Tiger Pagodas. It's said that entering through the dragon's mouth and exiting through the tiger's brings good fortune. For a stunning city view, take a ferry to Cijin Island and hike up to the lighthouse.


What to eat

Being a port city, Kaohsiung excels at seafood. Head to one of the local seafood restaurants near the harbour for the freshest catch of the day. The Liuhe Night Market is another hotspot, famous for its seafood congee and grilled squid.


Taichung: The Creative Soul of Central Taiwan

Often called Taiwan's most liveable city, Taichung is a hub of creativity, culture, and, most importantly, the birthplace of bubble tea. It's a city that encourages you to slow down and appreciate the finer details, from its beautifully designed teahouses to its whimsical public art. Taichung is also driving distance to the scenic areas of Sun Moon Lake and the mountains of Alishan. Allow a week to visit these spots if you plan on checking them out.


colourful close-up, hand-painted murals at Rainbow Village, Taichung Taiwan, bright sunny day highlighting whimsical characters, portrait

Street food + must-do experiences

A trip to Taichung isn't complete without visiting the original Chun Shui Tang teahouse to sample the pearl milk tea that started a global phenomenon. For a visual feast, the Rainbow Village is a tiny settlement of homes painted in a riot of colour by a veteran soldier, creating an unforgettable photo opportunity. As evening falls, get lost in the sprawling Feng Chia Night Market, one of the biggest and best in Taiwan, where you can find everything from sweet potato balls to grilled scallops. Don't forget to pick up a box of exquisite pineapple cakes from Miyahara, a stunning dessert shop housed in a former eye hospital.


Cultural Etiquette and Smart Travel Tips

Taiwanese people are incredibly friendly and welcoming. A few simple gestures will go a long way. When receiving something, especially a business card or gift, it's polite to accept it with both hands. A slight head bow is a common gesture of thanks or respect. While tipping is not customary, leaving the small change is appreciated. On the MRT, talking loudly on the phone is frowned upon, and there is a strict no-food-or-drink policy.


What to Pack

Packing for Taiwan requires versatility. Lightweight layers are key, as the weather can change, especially if you're travelling between different regions.

  • Comfortable walking shoes are non-negotiable.

  • A light waterproof jacket or a compact umbrella, as quick showers are common.

  • A portable power bank for keeping your devices charged on the go.

  • An Australian Type I to a Taiwanese Type A/B power adapter.


Staying Connected

Navigating Taiwan’s amazing cities and sharing your adventures is so much easier with constant data access. Instead of paying exorbitant roaming fees or wasting time searching for a local SIM on arrival, you can get sorted before you even leave Australia. An E.Tel Travel eSIM for Taiwan gives you affordable, high-speed data from the moment you land. You can activate it in minutes and stay connected for your whole trip, making it simple to use maps, book rides, and post envy-inducing food pics. Find the perfect plan for your 2026 trip at https://apply.etel.com.au/travelesim/taiwan.


Final Thoughts

Taiwan is a destination that captures the hearts of all who visit. With its incredible food, rich culture, and the genuine warmth of its people, it promises a journey filled with unforgettable moments. So start planning, pack your bags, and get ready for an adventure that will delight all your senses.



 
 
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