Buzz
One of the first things you'll notice in Taiwan is the abundance of scooters on the streets. Owning a scooter in Taiwan is highly common, surpassing neighboring countries like Singapore or Japan. Government statistics indicate around 15 million scooters in Taiwan – that's 67 out of 100 people owning one. Besides the ubiquitous 125cc scooters, you might even spot classic Harley Davidson motorcycles cruising the streets. With limited parking space in major Taiwanese cities, it's not unusual to see families joyfully riding a scooter together to explore. This has truly become a unique aspect of Taiwan, never failing to captivate onlookers.
Touring Around Taiwan
To freely roam on scooters in Taiwan, all you need is to present an International Driver's License. This license is valid for 30 days from your arrival in Taiwan. Renting a scooter or motorcycle is easily available at popular tourist spots in Taiwan, usually costing around 500 NT$ per day. Locations near train or bus stations often provide this service, and some hotels also offer scooter rentals at the same rate as room charges. Ensure the scooter is in good condition and equipped with valid safety accessories like a helmet.
If you're not confident about riding on your own or just want to enjoy the scenery without worrying about directions, scooter tours are an excellent way to explore Taiwan. With the North Taipei Scooter Tour, you'll have a full day to explore beautiful suburban areas, including lunch and admission to the serene Old Street district. Alternatively, you can opt for a sunset tour to witness the spectacular views as the capital of Taiwan is illuminated by city lights.
Visiting Taiwan – Where to Go?
Taiwan, predominantly mountainous, offers avid riders the chance to explore the best mountain roads in Asia on two wheels. For an exhilarating journey, skilled drivers can head west from Xindian in Taipei, along Route 9 to Toucheng in Yilan County, or cruise down the west coast from Hualien to Taitung (Route 11). The Cross-Island Highway is perhaps one of Taiwan's most challenging routes, reaching heights of nearly 2600m above sea level. In winter, drivers may find themselves navigating through snowstorms at the mountain peaks.
Southern Taiwan boasts enticing routes as well. You can rent modern scooters in Kenting for 500 NT$ per day during the peak summer months. Riding a scooter is the ideal way to explore Kenting and discover the scenic areas beyond, offering breathtaking landscapes beyond just the beaches. The 25km journey to Jialeshui remains undisturbed by public transportation, making it a fantastic day trip for surfing at one of Taiwan's best surf spots or simply relaxing on the less crowded beaches away from the main tourist areas in Kenting.
Self-Drive Car Rental with/without Driver in Taiwan
Given Taiwan's unpredictable weather, renting a car might be a more suitable option during both the rainy season and hot summer, when air conditioning becomes essential. The small roads on the island are usually free from heavy trucks, which stick to highways and main roads, allowing you to enjoy and share the fantastic landscapes of Taiwan with only a few others. Fantastic day trips from major Taiwanese cities include Sun Moon Lake – easily accessible from Taichung, and Alishan National Scenic Area, just a drive from Chiayi. For a private tour around Taipei to take in the sights, consider renting a car with a driver for the day. Klook's “Taipei Car Rental with Driver” package provides you with a dedicated driver who can take you to Taipei's famous landmarks or follow your custom itinerary. Additionally, you can rent a car for the day anywhere on the island for 1000 NT$ per day, and reputable car rental companies are available at Taiwan's international airports.
