3 day itinerary
Taiwan
Itinerary
Taiwan is a fantastic destination with a rich culture, delicious food, and plenty of affordable options. Let’s dive into a fun and budget-friendly 3-day itinerary that will let you experience the best of Taiwan without breaking the bank!
Day 1: Taipei Exploration
Morning:
- Breakfast at a Local Eatery: Start your day with a traditional Taiwanese breakfast. Head to a local spot like for some delicious soy milk, egg pancakes, and fried dough sticks. It’s cheap and super filling!
Mid-Morning:
- : After breakfast, take a stroll to this iconic landmark. The grand architecture and beautiful gardens are perfect for some photos. Plus, it’s free to enter!
Lunch:
- Lunch at a Night Market: Head to (it opens in the afternoon) for some affordable street food. Try the famous oyster omelet or stinky tofu – it’s a must!
Afternoon:
- Souvenir Shopping: After lunch, explore the nearby . This area is filled with shops selling traditional snacks, teas, and handicrafts. Perfect for picking up unique souvenirs!
Evening:
- Dinner at : This is one of the oldest night markets in Taipei. Enjoy a variety of affordable local dishes like pepper buns and bubble tea. The atmosphere is vibrant and lively!
Accommodation: Look for budget-friendly hostels or guesthouses in the Ximending area. Places like Meander Taipei Hostel offer great rates and a fun atmosphere.
Day 2: Day Trip to Jiufen and Shifen
Morning:
- Breakfast: Grab a quick breakfast at a local bakery or convenience store (7-Eleven has great options) before heading out.
Mid-Morning:
- Travel to Jiufen: Take a bus or train from Taipei to Jiufen (about 1.5 hours). The scenic views along the way are a treat!
Lunch:
- Lunch in Jiufen: Try the famous taro balls and other local snacks at the . The prices are reasonable, and the views are stunning!
Afternoon:
- Explore Jiufen: Wander through the narrow streets, visit the tea houses, and soak in the beautiful mountain and sea views. Don’t forget to pick up some local snacks as souvenirs!
Late Afternoon:
- Travel to Shifen: Head to Shifen (about 30 minutes by train). Here, you can visit the , which is beautiful and free to see!
Evening:
- Sky Lantern Experience: While in Shifen, you can participate in the sky lantern activity. It’s a bit of a splurge, but you can share a lantern with friends to keep costs down. Write your wishes and release it into the sky!
Dinner: Grab some dinner at a local eatery in Shifen before heading back to Taipei.
Accommodation: Return to your budget-friendly hostel in Taipei.
Day 3: Culture and Nature
Morning:
- Breakfast: Enjoy breakfast at your hostel or a nearby café.
Mid-Morning:
- Visit : Head to for some iconic views. You can go up to the observatory, but if you want to save money, just enjoy the view from the ground and explore the shopping mall below.
Lunch:
- Lunch at a Local Food Court: Check out the food court in the mall or nearby. You can find a variety of affordable options.
Afternoon:
- Visit the : This museum houses an incredible collection of Chinese artifacts. Admission is affordable, and it’s a great way to learn about Taiwan’s history.
Late Afternoon:
- Explore : Head to for some last-minute souvenir shopping and to try more street food. It’s one of the largest night markets in Taipei!
Evening:
- Dinner at : Enjoy your final dinner in Taiwan with a variety of affordable options. Don’t miss the fried chicken steak!
Accommodation: If you have a late flight, you can stay at your hostel or find a budget hotel near the airport for convenience.
Tips for Your Trip:
- Transportation: Use the MRT for easy and affordable travel around Taipei. Consider getting an EasyCard for convenience.
- Cash: While many places accept cards, having cash on hand is useful for street food and small shops.
- Language: While many people speak English, learning a few basic Mandarin phrases can enhance your experience!
Enjoy your trip to Taiwan! It’s a beautiful place with so much to offer, and I’m sure you’ll have a fantastic time exploring! 🌏✈️