Having a look through Pinoy travel groups and forums, it’s almost frustrating how Taiwan is still considered by many as one of the most underrated destinations. And, if by some chance someone recommends it to prospective travelers, it’s often described as a “mini Japan,” when it’s more than that.
While this beautiful island does not have a big theme park like Disneyland or Universal Studios to draw in big crowds, it sure has got a lot of character and heart. The sights are amazing, the culinary scene is mouthwateringly vibrant, and the people are surprisingly warm and friendly, despite the language barrier.
It ticks all the boxes of a perfect getaway, with flights to the capital Taipei taking just a little over an hour from Manila. And the best part: Filipinos can visit visa-free until 31 July 2025!
If you are looking to spend a holiday in Taiwan and need some help with your planning, we’ve got you covered. Here, we crafted a simplified five-day-four-night itinerary (plus, some tips!) for a fantastic stay.
Things To Prepare Before Your Taiwan Trip
Valid Passport
Before booking your flight, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months from your planned travel date. To avoid last-minute stress, you can renew your passport with the DFA up to one year before it expires.
Also, don’t forget to check the condition of your passport. Even if it’s still valid, a damaged or “mutilated” passport can cause problems during your trip. Watch out for signs like tears, folds, water stains, mold, or smudges, especially on the bio page (the one with your photo and details). If you see any damage, it’s best to visit the DFA right away to have it checked or replaced.
eTravel Form
Don’t forget to fill out your eTravel form at eTravel.gov.ph before your flight. You’ll need to show this to the Bureau of Immigration when you depart. First-time travelers will need to create an account first.
You’ll also need to fill out the form again before flying back to the Philippines to log your arrival. It’s best to complete the form within 72 hours before your flight so it’s up to date!
Philippine Travel Tax Receipt
All Filipino travelers are required to pay travel tax for every international trip. You can pay online through the official TIEZA website (small processing fee applies), or pay at the airport before departure.
If you’re paying at the airport, be sure to arrive at least 3 to 4 hours early, as lines at TIEZA counters can get pretty long, especially during peak travel seasons.
TW Arrival Card
Think of the TW Arrival Card as Taiwan’s version of our eTravel Form. All foreign nationals without an Alien Resident Certificate, Resident Visa, or Diplomatic ID Card must complete and submit this online immigration card within three days before arrival.
Taiwan Lucky Land
This is actually optional, but it’s an opportunity you wouldn’t want to pass up on if you’re visiting before 30 June 2025!
Get a chance to win up to NT$5,000 worth of vouchers when you join the Taiwan Lucky Land lottery! Simply register on the official event page within seven days prior to your arrival, and try your luck and draw at the arrivals hall of the airport upon your arrival. If you win, you’ll receive your prize on the spot!
Travel Wi-Fi
Stay connected during your Taiwan adventure with Big Sky Nation, the Philippines’ #1 travel Wi-Fi provider (as rated by fellow travelers). Enjoy reliable, high-speed internet throughout your trip. Book in advance so you’re all set before you fly!
The Perfect 5-Day Itinerary For First-Timers In Taiwan
Day 1: Arrival, National Palace Museum, Taipei 101, Shilin Night Market
Touch down at the Taoyuan International Airport, and head to your chosen accommodation in Taipei.
After checking in and freshening up, start your cultural immersion at the National Palace Museum, which is home to one of the world’s largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts. From jadeite cabbage sculptures to ancient calligraphy scrolls, the treasures that can be found only here span thousands of years of dynastic history.
Next, travel to the iconic Taipei 101, once the world’s tallest building at 508 meters. The building has a mall filled with shops and restaurants in the lower floors. You can get your xiao long bao and spicy beef noodle soup fix at Din Tai Fung, which is right at the entrance from the MRT exit, if you haven’t had lunch yet!
Take the high-speed elevator to the observatory deck on the 89th floor for panoramic views of the entire city, especially stunning at dusk. After enjoying Taipei’s cityscape, pick up some souvenirs at the observatory’s base lobby, where you can also send a postcard to loved ones carrying a unique Taipei 101 postmark.
As evening sets in, head to Shilin Night Market, Taipei’s largest and most famous night market. Wander through the bustling alleys as you sample must-try Taiwanese street food such as oyster omelets, flame-torched beef cubes, bubble tea, and the infamous stinky tofu. Shop for quirky souvenirs or play carnival games before heading back to your hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Day 2: North Coast Day Tour
Set out early for a North Coast day tour, either via private driver, rental car, or by joining a guided group tour.
Your first stop is Yehliu Geopark, a natural wonder famed for its surreal rock formations sculpted by wind and sea. Don’t miss the Queen’s Head rock, which has become a symbol of Taiwan. Don’t forget to bring water and apply (and reapply!) sunscreen as the area is open and sunny.
Next, drive to Shifen Old Street, nestled in the lush Pingxi District. This quaint railway town is famous for its sky lantern tradition. Purchase a lantern, write your wishes in vibrant calligraphy, and release it into the sky as trains chug along the old tracks beside you. A short walk takes you to Shifen Waterfall, dubbed Taiwan’s “Niagara Falls” for its horseshoe shape and lush setting.
Continue to Jiufen, a romantic mountainside village with narrow lanes, red lanterns, and teahouses that is believed to have inspired the visuals of Studio Ghibli’s Academy Award-winning Spirited Away. Sip traditional tea at Amei Teahouse for the best views as you soak in the nostalgic atmosphere. Keep in mind that you might have to place a reservation in advance to beat the crowds.
Before heading back to Taipei, wander the streets to try taro balls, peanut ice cream rolls, and fishball soup.
Day 3: Taipei Zoo, Maokong
Start the day at the Taipei Zoo, one of Asia’s largest zoological parks and home to the beloved giant pandas. The zoo is well laid out, making it an enjoyable visit for all ages. Ride the shuttle or explore on foot through themed areas such as the Tropical Rainforest and Asian Desert.
In the afternoon, take the Maokong Gondola. This scenic cable car ride connects the zoo to the cool Maokong mountains (make sure to bring a jacket in case the weather gets chillier when you visit!). Choose a crystal cabin with a glass bottom for thrilling views of lush forests and tea plantations below.
Arriving at Maokong, explore this tranquil tea-growing area known for its high-quality oolong tea. Enjoy afternoon tea at a local teahouse, like Yao Yue Teahouse (a 20-minute walk from the Maokong Gondola Station), where you can learn about traditional tea ceremonies while savoring locally grown brews paired with light snacks. Watch the sun dip behind the hills before riding the gondola back down.
Day 4: Beitou Hot Springs, Ximending
Begin the day with relaxation at Beitou Hot Springs, a historical spa district just north of central Taipei. Visit the Beitou Hot Springs Museum to learn about its Japanese colonial roots, then stroll through Thermal Valley, where steamy sulfur vents create an otherworldly mist. End with a soak in a public or private hot spring bath to soothe your tired muscles from all the walking over the past couple of days.
Refreshed, head back to the city and spend your afternoon and the rest of the evening in Ximending, Taipei’s youthful and energetic shopping district. Often dubbed the “Harajuku of Taipei,” it’s packed with fashion boutiques, themed cafés, anime stores, and pop culture shops.
Grab a bubble tea at Tiger Sugar or 50 Lan, try Ay-Chung Flour Rice Noodles, and keep an eye out for street performers. It’s also a great place to shop for trendy clothes, skincare products, and souvenirs perfect for pasalubong. Trust us when we say that you’ll find something for everyone in your life here!
Day 5: Huashan 1914, Departure
On your final day, spend a relaxed morning at Huashan 1914 Creative Park, a former sake factory transformed into an artistic hub.
Roam the industrial-chic halls filled with rotating art exhibits, design shops, cafés, and indie bookstores. It’s the perfect place to snap a few final Instagram-worthy photos and pick up unique handcrafted gifts for your loved ones.
Have lunch at one of the park’s stylish restos like SipSip Bar & Restaurant before heading back to your accommodation to grab your bags and transfer to the airport.
Depending on your flight time, you might squeeze in one last bubble tea or bakery treat. You can never go wrong with Taiwan’s 7-Elevens and bakeries for on-the-go bites.
Big Sky Taiwan Travel Tips
- Use EasyCard! This reloadable transit card is valid for MRTs, buses, convenience stores, and even some attractions across Taiwan. Plus, aside from your average metro card, it comes in super cute forms like charms and keychains featuring popular cartoon or anime characters!
- Traveling on a tight budget? Try the 7-Eleven Bento! Yes, Taiwan’s convenience stores serve fresh, tasty meals that are worth every buck.
- Before your trip, learn a few Mandarin phrases. Basic greetings (ni hao) and thank yous (xie xie) go a long way, especially in smaller towns.
- Don’t miss the free tastings, but don’t overdo it! At tea shops and night markets, vendors often offer free samples, which is great for discovering new favorites without commitment.
- Don’t talk loudly on public transportation. Locals enjoy some peace and quiet during their commute, so keep your voice’s volume to a low.
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