Pack Your Bags: Must-See Spots & Experiences in Taiwan

Craving your next adventure? Taiwan is the perfect 2025 destination—where ancient temples meet buzzing night markets, and tranquil gorges meet high-speed trains. Whether you’re chasing Taiwan food and culture, scenic Taiwan nature travel, or easy Taipei day trips, this island delivers big on beauty, heart, and flavour.

Here’s your must-see travel guide to one of Asia’s most underrated gems.

1. Dive Into Taipei’s Cultural Heart

Taiwan’s capital blends old-world charm with neon-lit energy. Start at Longshan Temple, a spiritual oasis surrounded by lanterns and incense. Pop over to the National Palace Museum, which holds over 700,000 Chinese artefacts—including ancient jade and calligraphy scrolls.

Art lovers? Don’t miss the Taipei Fine Arts Museum for local contemporary works and photography.

External reads:

• 10 Best Things to Do in Taipei – Daily Telegraph
• Taipei Like a Local – Reuters

2. Take Iconic Taipei Day Trips

Jiufen
This misty hillside town—lined with glowing lanterns and steep stairways—inspired Spirited Away. Sip oolong tea at a cliffside teahouse while overlooking the sea.

Shifen Waterfall
Taiwan’s “Little Niagara” is the widest waterfall on the island. You can release a sky lantern along the old railway line—a charming, photogenic ritual.

Yehliu Geopark
On the coast, you’ll find wind-carved wonders like the famous Queen’s Head rock formation. A surreal spot for nature lovers and photo buffs alike.

3. Explore Taiwan’s Nature Travel Highlights

Taroko Gorge
In Taroko National Park, marble canyons stretch for miles. Hike the Tunnel of Nine Turns, visit the Eternal Spring Shrine, and breathe in that crisp mountain air.

Yangmingshan National Park
Located just outside Taipei, this volcanic park offers sulfur springs, cherry blossoms, and a lush, dramatic landscape.

Alishan
Ride the historic Alishan Forest Railway, see the sun rise over a “sea of clouds,” and walk among centuries-old cypress trees.

Related post: Top National Parks to Visit in Asia 2025

4. Taste Taiwan: Food & Culture in Every Bite

Din Tai Fung’s soup dumplings are world-famous—but Taiwan’s food culture extends far beyond the Michelin stars.

Wander night markets like:

• Shilin Night Market for giant fried chicken and fruit ice
• Raohe Night Market for black pepper buns and stinky tofu
• Tonghua Night Market for late-night snacks with locals

Don’t miss bubble tea, pineapple cakes, beef noodle soup, and mango shaved ice—Taiwan is a foodie’s heaven.

5. Local Life, Festivals & Hidden Escapes

Sun Moon Lake
Cycle around the island’s largest lake, visit indigenous cultural centres, and take a paddleboat ride at sunset. The views are postcard-perfect.

East Rift Valley
A paradise for road trippers—lush rice paddies, hot springs, and serene towns offer a glimpse into Taiwan’s rural soul.

Kinmen Islands
Off the coast, these war-era islands are dotted with old military bunkers and Min-style architecture—off-the-beaten-path and full of charm.

Festivals to Plan For in 2025:

• Taipei Lantern Festival (Feb): Lanterns light up city streets and temples
• Dragon Boat Festival (June): Races, rice dumplings, and riverside parties
• Ghost Festival (Aug): Traditional performances and spooky vibes!

Smart Travel Tips for 2025

• Cash Is King: Night markets and small vendors often don’t take cards
• Rain Gear Alert: Summer rains can hit hard—pack a light raincoat
• Stay Connected: Local SIMs are affordable and worth grabbing at the airport
• Respect Local Etiquette: Offer and accept with both hands, and be mindful in temples

Taiwan is also celebrated for its safety, accessibility, and LGBTQ+ inclusivity—especially in Taipei, the first Asian city to legalise same-sex marriage.

Taiwan Is the Full Package

Looking for nature? Head to Taroko, Alishan, and Yehliu.
Hungry? Night markets, Din Tai Fung, and Jiufen’s teahouses await.
Into culture? Explore Taipei temples, museums, and festivals.
Want relaxation? Sun Moon Lake and the East Rift Valley say hi.

This island is small—but the adventures? Limitless.

🔗 Related Articles You’ll Love

• Best Things to Do in Taipei, the Nature-Wrapped Heart of Taiwan – CN Traveler
• 10 Reasons to Make Taiwan Your 2025 Destination – NY Post
• 12 Foods That May Help You Live Longer – Verywell Health
• The Mediterranean Diet & Travel-Friendly Recipes – EatingWell

Planning a Taiwan trip? Whether you want help crafting a 7-day loop, exploring vegetarian-friendly eats, or comparing guided vs DIY adventures—we’ve got more content coming your way.

Which Taiwan spot are you adding to your bucket list—Jiufen? Alishan? Or that juicy night market dumpling stall?