17 day itinerary for Taiwan

Itinerary

Taiwan is a beautiful island with a rich culture, stunning landscapes, and delicious food. With 17 days to explore, you can take your time and really soak in the sights and sounds. Here’s a relaxed itinerary that includes parks and green spaces, perfect for a leisurely adventure. Let’s dive in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Taipei

• Morning: Arrive in Taipei. Check into your hotel and freshen up.
• Afternoon: Stroll through Daan Forest Park. It’s a lovely green space with walking paths, ponds, and plenty of trees.
• Evening: Head to Raohe Night Market for dinner. Try some local street food like pepper buns and stinky tofu.

## Day 2: Explore Taipei

• Morning: Visit Taipei 101 for stunning views of the city. Don’t forget to check out the mall below for some shopping!
• Afternoon: Explore Taipei Botanical Garden. It’s a peaceful spot with beautiful plants and a lovely atmosphere.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner in the Ximending area, known for its vibrant nightlife and street food.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Yangmingshan National Park

• All ## Day: Take a day trip to Yangmingshan National Park. Hike the trails, visit the hot springs, and enjoy the beautiful scenery. Don’t miss the flower gardens if you’re there in season!
• Evening: Return to Taipei and relax at your hotel.

## Day 4: Taipei to Jiufen

• Morning: Travel to Jiufen, a charming mountain town. Explore the narrow streets and tea houses.
• Afternoon: Visit the Jiufen Old Street and try some local snacks. Don’t forget to take in the stunning views of the coastline.
• Evening: Stay overnight in Jiufen. Enjoy a quiet evening with a view.

## Day 5: Jiufen to Taroko Gorge

• Morning: Depart Jiufen and head to Taroko National Park. Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Start exploring the park with a visit to the Shakadang Trail. It’s an easy hike with beautiful river views.
• Evening: Relax at your accommodation and enjoy the natural surroundings.

## Day 6: Taroko National Park

• All ## Day: Spend the day hiking in Taroko Gorge. Consider the Eternal Spring Shrine and Lushui Trail for breathtaking views.
• Evening: Enjoy a quiet dinner at a local restaurant.

## Day 7: Taroko to Sun Moon Lake

• Morning: Travel to Sun Moon Lake. Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Rent a bike and ride around the lake. Stop at the Wenwu Temple for some stunning views.
• Evening: Enjoy a lakeside dinner and watch the sunset.

## Day 8: Sun Moon Lake

• All ## Day: Take a boat tour of Sun Moon Lake. Visit Ci'en Pagoda and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
• Evening: Relax at your hotel or explore the local night market.

## Day 9: Sun Moon Lake to Tainan

• Morning: Depart for Tainan, the oldest city in Taiwan.
• Afternoon: Visit Anping Tree House and stroll through Anping Old Street for some local snacks.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant, trying Tainan’s famous beef soup.

## Day 10: Tainan

• All ## Day: Explore Tainan’s historical sites, including Fort Provintia and Confucius Temple. Spend some time in Tainan Park, a lovely green space.
• Evening: Try some local delicacies for dinner.

## Day 11: Tainan to Kaohsiung

• Morning: Travel to Kaohsiung. Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Love River and take a leisurely walk along the waterfront.
• Evening: Explore the Liuhe Night Market for dinner.

## Day 12: Kaohsiung

• All ## Day: Spend the day at Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum. It’s a peaceful place with beautiful gardens and impressive architecture.
• Evening: Return to Kaohsiung and relax.

## Day 13: Kaohsiung to Kenting National Park

• Morning: Head to Kenting National Park. Check into your accommodation.
• Afternoon: Explore the beaches and enjoy some water activities.
• Evening: Have dinner at a beachside restaurant.

## Day 14: Kenting National Park

• All ## Day: Spend the day hiking in Kenting. Visit Eluanbi Lighthouse and enjoy the stunning coastal views.
• Evening: Relax at your accommodation.

## Day 15: Kenting to Hualien

• Morning: Travel back to Hualien. Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Qixingtan Beach for a relaxing afternoon by the sea.
• Evening: Enjoy dinner at a local seafood restaurant.

## Day 16: Hualien to Taipei

• Morning: Travel back to Taipei. Check into your hotel.
• Afternoon: Visit Elephant Mountain for a short hike and a great view of Taipei, especially at sunset.
• Evening: Celebrate New Year’s Eve at Taipei 101 or a local event. Enjoy the festivities!

## Day 17: New Year’s Day in Taipei

• Morning: Sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast.
• Afternoon: Visit Yangmingshan National Park for a relaxing day in nature. Take a gentle hike or just enjoy the hot springs.
• Evening: Have a farewell dinner at a nice restaurant, reflecting on your wonderful trip.

Tips:

• Make sure to check the weather and pack accordingly, especially for hikes.
• Try to learn a few basic Mandarin phrases; locals appreciate the effort!
• Don’t rush; take your time to enjoy each location and the delicious food!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic time in Taiwan! Enjoy your trip! 🌏✈️