5 day itinerary for Taiwan

Itinerary

Here's an ideal itinerary for 5 days in Taiwan that will cater to your interests and constraints:

Day 1: Arrival in Taipei

• Check-in at your hotel/hostel in Taipei
• Visit the famous Taipei 101 skyscraper and enjoy the panoramic view of the city from the observatory deck
• Explore the vibrant Ximending district, known for its street food, shopping, and entertainment options
• Have dinner at one of the many night markets in Taipei, such as Shilin Night Market or Raohe Night Market

Day 2: Taipei City Tour

• Start your day with a visit to the National Palace Museum, which houses over 700,000 ancient Chinese artifacts and artworks
• Take a stroll through the historic Dadaocheng district, known for its traditional architecture, tea shops, and street food stalls
• Visit Longshan Temple, one of the oldest and most famous temples in Taipei, and learn about Taiwanese religious practices and beliefs
• Enjoy a delicious lunch at Din Tai Fung, a world-renowned restaurant chain that specializes in steamed dumplings and other Taiwanese delicacies
• In the afternoon, head to Beitou Hot Springs and relax in the natural hot springs surrounded by lush greenery

Day 3: Day Trip to Jiufen and Yehliu Geopark

• Take a day trip to the charming mountain town of Jiufen, which inspired the setting of the famous anime movie "Spirited Away"
• Wander through the narrow alleys and staircases of Jiufen Old Street, lined with souvenir shops, tea houses, and street food vendors
• Visit Yehliu Geopark, a unique geological formation on the northern coast of Taiwan, featuring bizarre rock formations shaped by wind and sea erosion
• Have a seafood lunch at one of the restaurants near the park, offering fresh catches from the nearby fishing village

Day 4: Tainan City Tour

• Take a high-speed train to Tainan, the cultural capital of Taiwan and home to many historic temples, shrines, and museums
• Visit Chihkan Tower, a former Dutch fort that now serves as a symbol of Tainan's rich history and cultural heritage
• Explore Anping Old Street, a lively market area with traditional snacks, handicrafts, and souvenirs
• Have lunch at a local restaurant serving Tainan-style cuisine, such as oyster omelet, beef soup, or milkfish porridge
• Visit Confucius Temple, one of the oldest and most well-preserved Confucian temples in Taiwan, and learn about Confucianism and its influence on Taiwanese culture

Day 5: Yangmingshan National Park and Departure

• Take a bus or taxi to Yangmingshan National Park, located just outside Taipei city and known for its hot springs, hiking trails, and scenic views
• Hike up to the summit of Mt. Qixing, the highest peak in the park, and enjoy the panoramic view of Taipei city and the surrounding mountains
• Relax in one of the hot spring resorts or public baths in the park, and soak in the natural mineral-rich waters
• Return to Taipei and have a farewell dinner at a local restaurant, trying out some of the dishes you missed during your stay in Taiwan
• Depart from Taiwan with fond memories of your trip and a desire to come back again soon!