Top 10 Best Things to See and Do in Taiwan

Monday newsletters feature top 10 travel lists to inspire.

Top 10 Best Things to See and Do in Taiwan

Taiwan is one of Asia’s most rewarding travel destinations, combining vibrant cities, spectacular mountain scenery, historic temples and a fascinating culinary heritage. From the futuristic skyline of Taipei to mist-covered forests, picturesque mountain villages and tranquil lakes, this island offers remarkable diversity within a relatively compact territory. Its distinctive character reflects centuries of Chinese cultural influence, Indigenous traditions and a complex history, while its celebrated food scene and welcoming hospitality add to its appeal. Whether you are interested in exploring historic landmarks, discovering dramatic landscapes or sampling local delicacies, these are the 10 best things to see and do in Taiwan.

Think I missed something? Share your favorite things to see and do in Taiwan in the comments section below.

10. Explore Taipei and admire Tapei 101

Taipei is the natural starting point for any journey through Taiwan, combining a modern skyline with traditional temples, historic neighbourhoods and an outstanding food scene. Its most recognizable landmark is Taipei 101, a 508 m (1668 ft) skyscraper that was once the world’s tallest building. Inspired by a traditional Chinese pagoda and the segments of a bamboo stalk, the tower offers panoramic views from its observation decks. Beyond the skyline, visitors can explore Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, admire the ornate architecture of Longshan Temple and wander through historic Dadaocheng. The city is also a paradise for food lovers, with everything from Michelin-starred restaurants to lively night markets serving traditional Taiwanese specialities.

9. Ride the Alishan Forest Railway

The Alishan National Scenic Area is renowned for its misty mountain forests, ancient trees and spectacular sunrise views. One of the most memorable ways to explore the region is aboard the historic Alishan Forest Railway, originally built to transport timber from the mountains. Its winding route passes through dense forests and dramatic mountain scenery, making the journey an attraction in its own right. Visitors can follow forest trails beneath towering trees, discover small temples and admire layers of mountains emerging from a sea of clouds. The area is also famous for its high-mountain tea, cultivated on surrounding slopes. Staying overnight allows travellers to experience the cooler mountain climate and enjoy the scenery during the quieter hours around sunrise.

8. Discover the beauty of Sun Moon Lake

Surrounded by forested mountains in central Taiwan, Sun Moon Lake is one of the island’s most picturesque destinations. Its name comes from the distinctive shape of the lake, with one side resembling a sun and the other a crescent moon. Visitors can take a boat trip across its calm waters, cycle along scenic lakeside routes or admire the panoramic views from the Sun Moon Lake Ropeway. Wenwu Temple, perched above the northern shore, is another highlight, featuring elaborate traditional architecture and sweeping views. The region is also associated with the Indigenous Thao people and is known for its locally produced black tea. An overnight stay offers the opportunity to enjoy the peaceful scenery before the arrival of day-trippers.

7. Explore the Taroko Gorge & Taiwan’s East Coast

Taiwan’s east coast is characterised by dramatic mountains, rugged cliffs and sweeping Pacific Ocean views. Its most famous natural landmark, Taroko Gorge, is a spectacular marble canyon carved by the Liwu River through the Central Mountain Range. Towering rock faces, narrow valleys and winding roads reveal the geological forces that shaped the island. The surrounding region also has a rich Indigenous Truku heritage. Further south, the East Coast National Scenic Area offers a quieter landscape of unusual rock formations, coastal villages and relatively undeveloped shoreline. Taroko suffered extensive damage during the April 2024 earthquake, and access to individual trails and viewpoints can change as reconstruction continues. Check current official park notices before planning a visit.

6. Wander through the historic village Jiufen

Perched on a hillside overlooking Taiwan’s northeastern coast, Jiufen is a historic mining village known for its narrow alleyways, traditional teahouses and atmospheric lantern-lit streets. The settlement flourished during the gold-mining boom of the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries, and remnants of its past remain visible in its architecture. Today, Jiufen Old Street is lined with food stalls, small shops and cafés serving Taiwanese specialities. Traditional teahouses provide an opportunity to sample local tea while enjoying views across the mountains and coastline. The village is especially atmospheric towards evening, when red lanterns illuminate the steep streets. Although Jiufen is a popular day trip from Taipei, arriving early or staying overnight offers a more relaxed experience.

5. Experience Taiwan’s famous night markets

Night markets are an essential part of Taiwanese culture, bringing together street food, shopping and lively evening entertainment. Taipei’s Shilin Night Market is among the best known, while Raohe Street Night Market offers a more compact setting filled with traditional food stalls. Visitors can sample pepper buns baked in cylindrical ovens, oyster omelettes, grilled seafood, beef noodle soup and the island’s famous bubble tea. More adventurous travellers might also try stinky tofu, one of Taiwan’s most distinctive specialities. Beyond the food, night markets are social gathering places where locals meet friends, browse inexpensive clothing and accessories, and enjoy traditional games. Exploring a night market is one of the easiest and most enjoyable ways to experience everyday Taiwanese life.

4. Visit the National Palace Museum

Taipei’s National Palace Museum houses one of the world’s most important collections of Chinese imperial art and historical treasures. Its extensive holdings include ceramics, jade carvings, bronze objects, paintings, calligraphy and artefacts collected over centuries by Chinese emperors and their courts. Among its most famous exhibits is the Jadeite Cabbage, an intricately carved piece of jade that demonstrates the extraordinary skill of traditional Chinese artisans. The museum provides valuable insight into China’s artistic traditions and imperial history, making it particularly rewarding for travellers interested in East Asian culture. Because the collection is vast and selected objects rotate between displays, it is worth checking the current exhibitions before visiting and allowing several hours to explore.

3. Discover Taiwan’s spectacular mountain landscapes

Much of Taiwan’s interior is dominated by mountains, with numerous peaks rising above 3,000 metres and landscapes ranging from subtropical forests to alpine environments. Yushan, also known as Jade Mountain, reaches 3,952 m (12,966 ft) and is the island’s highest peak, attracting experienced hikers seeking a challenging ascent. For visitors looking for more accessible scenery, the Hehuanshan area offers impressive mountain views and trails at high altitude. Across the island, forest paths, winding mountain roads and remote villages reveal a quieter side of Taiwan far removed from its bustling cities. Conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations, so checking the weather and trail restrictions is essential. For nature lovers, the mountainous interior is one of Taiwan’s greatest attractions.

2. Relax in Taiwan’s natural hot springs

Taiwan’s mountainous geology has created numerous natural hot springs, making thermal bathing an important part of the island’s leisure culture. One of the most accessible destinations is Beitou, a historic hot-spring district on the northern outskirts of Taipei. Visitors can explore the steaming waters of Thermal Valley before relaxing in a traditional bath or a hotel with private hot-spring facilities. Further afield, Wulai offers forested surroundings and Indigenous Atayal culture, while Jiaoxi in Yilan County is known for its hot-spring hotels and relaxed atmosphere. Facilities range from public baths to sophisticated spa resorts, making it easy to incorporate thermal bathing into a city break or a longer journey through Taiwan.

1. Discover Taiwan’s temples & tea culture

Taiwan’s cultural traditions remain an important part of everyday life, from ornate temples and religious festivals to historic tea houses. Longshan Temple in Taipei is one of the island’s most celebrated religious landmarks, with intricate carvings, colourful decorations and a constant stream of worshippers. Beyond the cities, traditional tea culture offers another rewarding experience. Taiwan is particularly renowned for its oolong teas, including high-mountain varieties cultivated in cool, misty conditions. The hills of Maokong, near Taipei, are dotted with tea houses overlooking the city, while the mountain regions around Alishan produce some of the island’s most prized teas. Visiting a traditional tea house provides an opportunity to sample local varieties and discover the craftsmanship behind one of Taiwan’s most distinctive cultural traditions.