Dive into Taiwan with 5-day Taiwan travel itinerary which offers an unforgettable travel experience. If you’re planning a trip to Taiwan, a 5-day itinerary is a perfect way to explore the island’s top highlights. From bustling cities to scenic mountains, this guide will help you make the most of your time in Taiwan.
Why Spend 5 Days in Taiwan?
Spending 5 days in Taiwan offers the perfect amount of time to experience a wide range of the island’s diverse offerings. Taiwan’s combination of vibrant cities, natural wonders, rich culture, and delicious food makes it a must-visit destination for any traveler. Whether you’re exploring bustling cities like Taipei or soaking in the tranquility of natural attractions like Sun Moon Lake or Taroko Gorge, there’s something for everyone.
Five days allow you to travel at a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. You can immerse yourself in Taiwan’s history, experience its modern culture, and enjoy the beauty of its landscapes. With so much to see and do, a 5-day trip ensures that you get a well-rounded experience of the island’s highlights.
Essential Preparations for Taiwan Travel Itinerary (5 Days)
Before embarking on your Taiwan travel itinerary, it’s important to be well-prepared to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some essential tips:
Travel Documents
Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned departure date. If you’re from a country that requires a visa to enter Taiwan, make sure to apply for one in advance. Alternatively, some nationalities can enjoy visa-free travel for up to 90 days. Be sure to check the latest visa regulations before your trip.
Transportation
Taiwan has an efficient and affordable transportation system. The Taipei MRT is ideal for getting around the capital city. For intercity travel, you can use high-speed rail (HSR) or regular trains. It’s also useful to get an EasyCard for convenience, which can be used for transportation in Taipei and other parts of Taiwan.
You can easily book train and bus tickets online or at stations. If you plan to explore Taiwan’s more remote locations, consider renting a car or booking guided tours.
Currency & Payment
The official currency in Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (NTD). While many establishments accept credit cards, it’s always a good idea to carry cash for smaller purchases, especially at markets or local shops. ATMs are readily available, and currency exchange services are easy to find.
Detailed Taiwan Travel Itinerary (5 Days)
Day 1: Arrival in Taipei – Explore the City’s Highlights
Morning: Arrive in Taipei
Your Taiwan travel itinerary begins in Taipei, the capital of Taiwan. Taipei’s bustling energy and modernity make it an exciting starting point for your trip. After arriving at Taoyuan International Airport, take a taxi or the MRT into the city.
Visit Taipei 101
Once in Taipei, start your exploration with a visit to Taipei 101, one of the tallest buildings in the world. The observation deck offers panoramic views of the entire city and the surrounding mountains. It’s an iconic landmark in Taipei and perfect for a photo opportunity.
Taipei 101 is located in the Xinyi District, which is also a hub for shopping and entertainment. Explore the area and grab a quick bite before heading to your next destination.
Lunch: Try Taiwanese Dumplings
For lunch, head to Din Tai Fung, one of Taiwan’s most famous dumpling restaurants. The restaurant specializes in xiao long bao (soup dumplings), which are delicate dumplings filled with flavorful broth. It’s a must-try dish in Taipei, and the quality here is unbeatable.
(Source: The Travel Mentor)
Afternoon: Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
After lunch, take a short ride to Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a historic site dedicated to Taiwan’s former leader. The grandiose structure and surrounding gardens make it a perfect spot for a peaceful afternoon stroll. Don’t miss the hourly changing of the guard ceremony, which adds to the site’s historical atmosphere.
Evening: Explore Night Markets
In the evening, Taipei comes alive with its vibrant night markets. Shilin Night Market is the largest and most famous in the city. Explore the market’s numerous food stalls offering everything from bubble tea to stinky tofu. Sample a variety of street food and immerse yourself in the local culture.
Day 2: Day Trip to Jiufen and Shifen
Morning: Jiufen Village
Start day two of your Taiwan travel itinerary by taking a trip to Jiufen, a charming mountain town located about an hour from Taipei. Jiufen is known for its narrow streets, traditional tea houses, and stunning views of the coastline. It’s an atmospheric village that has inspired many films and is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Stroll along the old streets, visit the A-Mei Tea House, and don’t forget to try some local snacks such as taro balls and peanut ice cream rolls. The quaint surroundings and cool mountain air will make for a peaceful morning.
Lunch: Local Delights in Jiufen
For lunch, enjoy some of Jiufen’s local dishes. One standout is niu rou mian (beef noodle soup), which is hearty and flavorful. Many small eateries serve this comforting dish, and it pairs perfectly with the fresh mountain air.
Afternoon: Visit Shifen Waterfall and Sky Lanterns
After Jiufen, head to Shifen, another picturesque town located in the Pingxi District. Shifen is famous for its stunning waterfall, which is often referred to as the “Niagara of Taiwan”. A short walk through the lush forest will take you to the beautiful Shifen Waterfall, where you can relax and enjoy the scenery.
In Shifen, you can also participate in the local tradition of releasing sky lanterns. Write your wishes on a lantern, light it up, and watch it float into the sky. It’s a unique experience that adds a magical touch to your Taiwan adventure.
Evening: Return to Taipei
Head back to Taipei in the late afternoon and enjoy a relaxing evening. You can visit a local café or take a walk around the city’s illuminated streets.
Day 3: Explore Taroko Gorge and Hualien
Morning: Travel to Hualien
On the third day of your Taiwan travel itinerary, make your way to Hualien, a coastal city located on Taiwan’s eastern side. Take a train or bus from Taipei to Hualien. The journey offers breathtaking views of the mountains and coastline, so be sure to have your camera ready.
Explore Taroko Gorge
After arriving in Hualien, head straight to Taroko Gorge, one of Taiwan’s most famous natural wonders. This stunning marble gorge features crystal-clear rivers, lush forests, and towering cliffs. There are several hiking trails, ranging from easy walks to more challenging treks. Visit Swallow Grotto and Eternal Spring Shrine, two of the most iconic spots within Taroko Gorge.
Don’t forget to take in the beautiful scenery along the way. The area is peaceful and tranquil, offering a refreshing break from the bustling city.
Lunch: Local Taiwanese Cuisine
After exploring Taroko Gorge, enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants in Hualien. Try Hualien’s famous rice dumplings and oyster omelets. These local delicacies are a treat and offer a taste of the region’s unique flavors.
Afternoon: Explore Hualien’s City Center
Spend the afternoon exploring Hualien’s city center. The area is known for its relaxed vibe, scenic parks, and local shops. Visit the Dongdamen Night Market in the evening to sample more street food and buy local handicrafts.
Day 4: Discover Sun Moon Lake
Morning: Travel to Sun Moon Lake
Day four of your Taiwan travel itinerary takes you to Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan’s largest freshwater lake. To get there, you’ll need to travel from Hualien to Taichung by train and then take a bus to the lake. The journey takes about 3.5 to 4 hours, but it’s worth it for the breathtaking views.
Explore the Scenic Area
Once at Sun Moon Lake, take a leisurely boat tour to enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake. The boat ride will offer stunning views of the surrounding mountains and temples. Visit the Wenwu Temple, dedicated to Confucius and the God of War, to learn more about the history of the region.
You can also rent a bike and ride around the lake, taking in the beauty of the natural surroundings. It’s one of the best ways to experience Sun Moon Lake at your own pace.
Lunch: Eat at a Lakeside Restaurant
For lunch, dine at one of the lakeside restaurants. Many restaurants here offer local specialties such as fish head soup and local rice wine. Enjoy your meal while taking in the panoramic views of the lake.
Afternoon: Visit the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village
In the afternoon, visit the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village, located near Sun Moon Lake. This theme park is a fun and educational experience that showcases Taiwan’s indigenous culture. It features traditional tribal villages, performances, and cultural exhibits.
Day 5: Return to Taipei and Visit the National Palace Museum
Morning: Return to Taipei
On your final day in Taiwan, take a morning bus or train back to Taipei. The journey takes about 3 to 4 hours, and you can enjoy the scenic views once again as you return to the city.
Visit the National Palace Museum
After arriving in Taipei, visit the National Palace Museum, which houses one of the world’s largest collections of Chinese art and historical artifacts. You’ll find impressive exhibits ranging from ancient ceramics to jade carvings.
Take your time exploring the museum’s collections and learning about Taiwan’s fascinating history. The museum is a great way to cap off your 5-day adventure.
Lunch: Try Taiwanese Beef Noodles
Before wrapping up your Taiwan trip, enjoy a bowl of Taiwanese beef noodles for lunch. This hearty dish, made with tender beef and flavorful broth, is a Taiwanese classic and the perfect end to your culinary journey.
Conclusion
With five days in Taiwan, you’ll experience the island’s highlights, from the vibrant streets of Taipei to the serene beauty of Sun Moon Lake. This Taiwan travel itinerary ensures you won’t miss any must-see destinations. Whether you’re a history lover, nature enthusiast, or foodie, Taiwan has something for everyone. Enjoy your adventure on this beautiful island!
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