A typical first trip here runs about $550 to $750 per person for 7 days at a mid-range style, before flights. Get your own number from the Budget Calculator.
- Night markets, Shilin Night Market in Taipei is a legendary food destination
- Beef noodle soup, Taiwan's most iconic dish, with countless regional variations
- Scallion pancakes, oyster omelets, and braised pork rice are street food staples
- Bubble tea (boba) was invented in Taiwan, try it at the source
- Din Tai Fung xiaolongbao (soup dumplings), possibly the world's most famous dumpling
- Lantern Festival (15th day after Chinese New Year), stunning sky lanterns in Pingxi
- Dragon Boat Festival, competitive races on rivers and harbors
- Mazu Pilgrimage (April), one of Asia's largest religious processions
- Ghost Month (7th lunar month), offerings made and activities limited
- LGBTQ+ Pride in Taipei, Asia's largest pride parade
Mandarin Chinese is official. English is widely taught and spoken, especially in Taipei.
Taiwan uses Traditional Chinese characters (vs. Simplified in mainland China).
Taiwanese people are universally described by visitors as among Asia's most friendly and helpful.
- Taiwanese hospitality is exceptional, accept it graciously
- MRT etiquette: no eating, quiet in priority seats, queue orderly
- Tipping is not customary and often refused
- Avoid political discussions about Taiwan's status, it's sensitive
Latest for Taiwan
Updates for Taiwan will appear here as they are published. Every update cites official sources, so you can plan on it.