3 Days in Taiwan Itinerary: The Ultimate Guide to Exploring the Heart of Asia

Welcome to Taiwan, the heart of Asia! This island nation offers a unique blend of ancient traditions, modern cities, breathtaking landscapes, and delectable cuisine. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, Taiwan has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll cover a comprehensive 3-day itinerary that will help you make the most of your visit.

Day 1: Discovering Taipei

Morning: Ximending and Longshan Temple

Start your day with a visit to Ximending, Taipei’s bustling shopping district. Often referred to as the “Harajuku of Taipei,” Ximending is famous for its vibrant street art, trendy shops, and delicious street food. Take a morning stroll here and grab some breakfast from one of the many food stalls offering local delicacies.

Next, head to the iconic Longshan Temple, one of Taipei’s oldest and most famous temples. Built in 1738, Longshan Temple is a spiritual haven that beautifully represents Taiwan’s rich cultural heritage. Spend some time exploring the temple’s intricate architecture and peaceful gardens.

Address: No. 211, Guangzhou Street, Wanhua District, Taipei City, 10853
Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 10:00 PM

Afternoon: Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Your next stop is the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a must-visit landmark in Taipei. Dedicated to former President Chiang Kai-shek, the memorial hall stands as a symbol of Taiwan’s modern history. Stroll through the expansive Liberty Square, take photos of the stunning architecture, and don’t miss the changing of the guard ceremony, which takes place every hour.

Address: No.21, Zhongshan S.Rd., Zhongzheng Dist.,Taipei City 100012
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Evening: Taipei 101 and Raohe Night Market

As the sun sets, make your way to Taipei 101, once the world’s tallest building. Ride the high-speed elevator to the observation deck on the 89th floor for panoramic views of the city. Don’t forget to explore the shopping mall and the many dining options available within the Taipei 101 complex.

Address: No. 7, Section 5, Xinyi Road, Xinyi District, Taipei City, 11049
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM (Observatory)

End your day with a visit to the Raohe Night Market, one of Taipei’s oldest and most famous night markets. Try local street food favorites like pepper pork buns, stinky tofu, and bubble tea while soaking in the lively atmosphere.

Address: Raohe Street, Songshan District, Taipei City, 105
Opening Hours: 5:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Day 2: Exploring Northern Taiwan

Morning: Yehliu Geopark

Kick off your second day with a morning visit to the stunning Yehliu Geopark. Located in the northern part of Taiwan, this geopark is famous for its unique rock formations, including the iconic “Queen’s Head”. The park’s natural beauty and geological significance make it a perfect spot for photography and exploration.

Address: No. 167-1, Gangdong Road, Wanli District, New Taipei City, 20744
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Afternoon: Jiufen Old Street

Next, head to the quaint town of Jiufen, a picturesque hillside village known for its narrow alleyways and tea houses. Wander through Jiufen Old Street, where you can sample traditional Taiwanese snacks, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy scenic views of the Pacific Ocean. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the famous sweet potato taro balls at one of Jiufen’s many teahouses.

Address: Jishan Street, Ruifang District, New Taipei City, 224
Opening Hours: Most shops are open from 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

Evening: Shifen Waterfall and Pingxi Sky Lantern

Continue your northern adventure by visiting the Shifen Waterfall, often referred to as the “Little Niagara Falls of Taiwan”. Enjoy the serene surroundings and capture stunning photos of the waterfall.

Address: No.10 Gankeng Road, Nanshan Village, Pingxi, New Taipei 226 Taiwan
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM

As the evening approaches, head to Pingxi, where you can participate in the unique and enchanting tradition of releasing sky lanterns. Write your wishes on a lantern and watch it soar into the night sky, carrying your hopes and dreams. The Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival is particularly famous, but you can enjoy this activity year-round.

Address: Pingxi District, New Taipei City
Opening Hours: Lantern activities typically start after sunset

Day 3: Immersing in Culture and Nature

Morning: National Palace Museum

Start your final day with a visit to the National Palace Museum. This world-renowned museum houses an extensive collection of Chinese art and artifacts, spanning over 8,000 years of history. From jade carvings to ancient calligraphy, the museum offers a fascinating glimpse into China’s rich cultural heritage.

Address: 221, Sec. 2, Zhishan Rd., Shilin Dist., Taipei City 111001, Taiwan
Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Afternoon: Beitou Hot Springs

No trip to Taiwan is complete without experiencing its renowned hot springs. Head to Beitou, a district in Taipei known for its natural hot springs and geothermal valley. Visit the Beitou Hot Spring Museum to learn about the history of the area, then relax and rejuvenate in one of the many hot spring resorts.

Address: No. 2, Zhongshan Road, Beitou District, Taipei City, 112
Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Evening: Shilin Night Market

Wrap up your trip with a visit to Shilin Night Market, one of the largest and most famous night markets in Taiwan. The market is a paradise for food lovers, offering a wide variety of local street food including oyster omelets, fried chicken, and bubble tea. Besides food, you can also find clothing, accessories, and souvenirs to bring back home.

Address: No. 101, Jihe Road, Shilin District, Taipei City, 111
Opening Hours: 4:00 PM – 12:00 AM

Your three days in Taiwan may be coming to an end, but the memories and experiences will last a lifetime. From the bustling streets of Taipei to the serene landscapes of the northern coast, Taiwan offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and adventure. Pack your bags, follow this itinerary, and get ready for an unforgettable journey in the heart of Asia!