[COMPREHENSIVE GUIDE] Self-Guided Taiwan Travel Tips from A to Z

Overview of Taiwan

Taiwan is located in East Asia, nestled between the Japanese and Philippine archipelagos, and shares maritime borders with southeastern China through the Taiwan Strait. This beautiful island is a testament to an enchanting destination, blessed with diverse natural landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Taiwan Travel Tips and Review from A to Z (Photo: @ainge.s)

Due to its unique location, Taiwan operates on UTC+8, commonly known as Taiwan Standard Time (TST). Compared to Vietnam (UTC+7), Taiwan is one hour ahead. This means that if it's 9 AM in Vietnam, it will be 10 AM in Taiwan.

Taiwan has a small land area of approximately 36,000 square kilometers, about one-tenth the size of Vietnam, making it the 38th largest island in the world. Despite its modest size, it is covered by 70% mountains, and the blend of tropical and subtropical climates creates a rich ecosystem and diverse landscapes.

This island nation has a population of nearly 24 million, primarily Han Chinese who migrated from Guangdong, Fujian, and Hong Kong, along with some Southeast Asian and indigenous people. As a result, Taiwan's culture is deeply rooted in Chinese traditions, reflected in its arts, cuisine, and customs.

When is the best season to visit Taiwan?

According to practical Taiwan travel experiences, it is difficult to say which season is the best for visiting this island. Each season has its own unique charm, but spring and autumn are definitely the most attractive, offering pleasant weather, beautiful landscapes, and a refreshing atmosphere.

Spring

From March to May, spring in Taiwan brings mild weather, with average temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C. During this time, flower fields start to bloom, and visitors can immerse themselves in cherry blossom festivals and the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival.

Taiwan Spring Travel Tips (Photo: @jeannettelee_)

Summer

Summer in Taiwan lasts from June to August, with temperatures soaring between 25°C to 35°C and frequent rain. Travel tips for visiting Taiwan in the summer suggest it's the perfect time for beach adventures and exploring the lush green tea fields and scenic landscapes.

Taiwan Summer Travel Tips (Photo: @d57travel)

Autumn

The most ideal time to visit Taiwan is during the autumn months, from September to November. The temperature during this period is perfectly pleasant, ranging from 15 to 25 degrees Celsius. Taiwan's autumn features clear blue skies, trees with red and golden leaves, creating a romantic and picturesque scenery.

Autumn travel tips for Taiwan (Photo: @nku_firewood)

Winter

From December to February, Taiwan experiences winter, with temperatures dropping significantly to between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius. The chilly, damp weather often brings cold winds and rain, and some areas may even witness snowfall. A must-try experience during this season is soaking in the hot spring baths, which adds a delightful touch to the winter visit to this beautiful island.

Winter travel tips for Taiwan (Photo: @mochamad_purwanto)

Essential preparations before traveling to Taiwan

Regarding documents

Do you need a visa to travel to Taiwan? The answer is yes, Taiwan requires a visa for Vietnamese citizens entering the island. Depending on various criteria and purposes, Taiwan's visa system categorizes visas into different types.

• Visas are categorized based on the purpose of entry: short-term visa, residence visa, and work visa.
• Visas are also categorized based on the application method: E-Visa, visa on arrival, and embassy visa.
• Visas are classified according to the number of entries and duration: single-entry visa, multiple-entry visa, and Taiwan 10-year visa.

For Taiwanese tourist visas, there are several common types available:

The visa processing time for a Taiwan tourist visa is typically 2 days for expedited service, and 5 days for standard service. The fees range from $50 to $75 USD. Please note that visa application fees are payable in USD and are non-refundable if your application is rejected.

Based on the experience of travelers visiting Taiwan, here are the necessary documents to prepare for your visa application:

• A passport with at least 6 months of validity and a complete photocopy of all pages.
• A certified copy of your national identity card (both sides).
• A completed Taiwan visa application form as per the regulations.
• Two 4x6 photos taken within the last 3-6 months, with a white background, exposing both ears, forehead, and no glasses.
• A separate photo taken according to the above standard, which should not be the same as the one in your passport.
• Proof of employment with an employment contract and a health insurance copy. Business owners should provide a business registration certificate, or a pension book if retired.
• Proof of financial stability, including a bank statement, registration documents, and property ownership certificates.
• Proof of itinerary, including a schedule, hotel booking, and round-trip flight tickets.

Transportation to Taiwan

The primary mode of transportation to the beautiful island of Taiwan is by airplane. From Vietnam, travelers can book round-trip flights from Hanoi, Da Nang, or Ho Chi Minh City to Taipei, Kaohsiung, and other destinations.

The flight takes about hours, with ticket prices ranging from 700,000 to 3,000,000 VND. Passengers can enjoy services from both domestic and international airlines, with direct or connecting flights offered by Vietnam Airlines, Vietjet Air, China Airlines, Eva Air, and others.

Flight ticket prices for traveling to Taiwan

*Ticket prices exclude taxes and fees, and may vary depending on the travel date

Taiwan Travel Tips - How to Find Affordable Flight Tickets

Packing for Your Trip

Taiwan SIM Cards

Unlike China, Taiwan does not block access to social media platforms like Facebook and Instagram. However, according to Taiwan travel tips, many visitors still prefer to purchase local SIM cards for cost-saving purposes.

Taiwan SIM cards are priced between 200,000 and 600,000 VND, offering data packages ranging from 500MB to 3GB per day. Once the high-speed 4G data is used up, the speed will drop to regular speed without disconnecting. The validity period varies from 3 to 20 days. In addition to internet access, some Taiwan travel SIM cards specialize in communication or offer combo options that provide both internet and call services.

With various types of SIM cards and suppliers available, if you're unsure where to buy a Taiwan travel SIM card, consider checking out Mytour, a reputable travel agency with nearly 15 years of experience in both organizing tours and providing Taiwan SIM cards. The SIM cards offered by Mytour guarantee a reliable connection and activation immediately upon arrival in Taiwan.

Taiwan Currency

Taiwan uses the New Taiwan Dollar (TWD), commonly abbreviated as NT$. This currency is the official unit of exchange in the Republic of China and is used across Taiwan. As of the current exchange rate, 1 TWD equals 780 VND, but the rate fluctuates daily.

Taiwan allows both paper money and coins to circulate, with the following denominations available:

• Taiwan's paper currency includes the denominations: 100 TWD, 200 TWD, 500 TWD, 1,000 TWD, and 2,000 TWD.
• Taiwan's coins include the denominations: 5 Hào, 1 TWD, 5 TWD, 10 TWD, 20 TWD, and 50 TWD.

Taiwan's currency with various denominations (Image: @numiland)

According to independent travel experiences and Taiwan travel review sites, in Vietnam, there are reliable places to exchange New Taiwan Dollars (TWD), including branches of BIDV, MSB, and TP Bank. Travelers can also visit counters at Maga Bank or the Bank of Taiwan to exchange currency at the airport.

However, for the best exchange rates, travelers can consider visiting currency exchange points at jewelry shops, such as:

• Hanoi: Gold and Silver Shop Quốc Trinh at 27 Hà Trung; Chiến Minh Shop at 119 Cầu Giấy…
• Ho Chi Minh City: Minh Thư Shop at 22 Nguyễn Thái Bình; Kim Mai Gold Shop at 84 Cống Quỳnh…

Clothing

Taiwan has four distinct seasons with varying climates and weather conditions. If visiting during cold weather, it's recommended to bring warm, waterproof clothing, especially when heading to snow-covered areas. For hot weather, pack clothing that is breathable and sweat-absorbent, ideal for traveling between multiple locations.

According to Taiwan travel tips, when visiting religious sites such as Phật Quang Sơn Tự or Văn Võ Temple, it’s best to dress modestly with clothing that covers the knees, or wear comfortable attire suitable for sightseeing and participating in rituals.

Where to stay while traveling in Taiwan

Taiwan's popular tourist destinations such as Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung are spread out from north to south across the island. Therefore, choosing the right hotel is crucial when planning your independent trip to Taiwan.

Here are 5 budget-friendly, quality hotels from north to south in Taiwan that you can add to your Taiwan travel experience:

*Hotel prices in Taiwan are based on September rates and may fluctuate depending on the time of booking.

Booking hotels based on Taiwan travel reviews (Image: @meettaiwan)

Travel tips in Taiwan

Subway

According to general travel tips for Taiwan and specific advice for Taipei, the subway (MRT) is one of the fastest, most punctual, and extensive modes of transportation here.

The subway operates with cash or the Easy Card, with fares starting at 20 TWD (16,000 VND) for a 10km trip. Additionally, the trains run daily from 6:00 AM to midnight and cover most major destinations, especially in Taipei and Kaohsiung. Therefore, it is considered the ideal transport for independent travelers visiting Taiwan.

MRT Subway in Taiwan (Photo: @jkushphotography)

High-Speed Train

As the fastest ground transportation in Taiwan, the high-speed train is a top choice for traveling between cities. It is equipped with modern seating and services such as meals and entertainment, which align with the ticket prices of around one million VND.

For the route from Taipei to Taichung, the high-speed train fare typically ranges from 675 TWD (526,000 VND), while the fare for the Taipei to Kaohsiung route is between 1,500 TWD (1,170,000 VND).

Train

Trains are another common mode of transportation used to travel between cities in Taiwan. However, they are generally slower and more affordable. For those who enjoy scenic views along the way, consider following Taiwan's self-guided travel tips and purchasing a train ticket starting from 400 TWD (312,000 VND).

Bus

Buses are a popular form of transport in Taiwan's cities, running from 5:00 AM to midnight and covering most of the island's famous destinations. Bus fares range from 15 to 30 TWD (12,000 - 23,000 VND). While affordable and reliable, buses do not guarantee precise travel times, especially during peak hours.

Taiwan Travel by Bus Review (Photo: @bus.photo_station)

Taxi

Taxi fares in Taiwan range from 70 to 80 TWD (55,000 to 63,000 VND) for the first kilometer. Although the cost can be high and traffic congestion may occur during peak hours, passengers can easily hail a taxi from any location, with services available 24/7.

Where to go and what to do when traveling in Taiwan

If you're unsure where to go or what to do in Taiwan, check out these famous tourist destinations listed below:

Taipei 101 Tower

• Opening hours: 09:00 AM - 10:00 PM.
• Address: No. 7, Section 5, Xinyi Rd, Xinyi District, Taipei City, Taiwan.
• Admission: Free access to floors 1-5; Admission to the observation deck costs 467,109 - 762,897 VND.

A symbol of both tourism and finance for Taipei and Taiwan, Taipei 101 took 5 years to complete and was once the tallest building in the world, standing at 509.2 meters. The tower's unique Feng Shui-inspired design is complemented by a massive internal sphere, which can withstand strong winds and earthquakes.

Taiwan Travel Tips at Taipei 101 (Photo: @aidenllh)

Shifen Old Street

• Opening hours: Always open.
• Address: No. 81, Shifen St, Pingxi District, New Taipei City, Taiwan.
• Admission: Free.

Not only does Shifen Old Street preserve Taiwan's historical architecture and cultural values, it is also famous for activities like sky lantern wish-making, hosting the Pingxi Festival, exploring the Jing'an Suspension Bridge, and enjoying the Shifen Waterfall.

Discover Shifen Old Street with Taiwan travel reviews (Photo: @lehatruc)

Shilin Quan Di Flower Garden

• Opening hours: Weekdays from 08:30 AM to 05:00 PM; Weekends from 08:00 AM to 07:00 PM.
• Address: No 60, Fulin St, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan.
• Admission: 73,959 VND for visiting the mansion and the surrounding flower garden views.

The Shilin Quan Di Flower Garden is known as the 'valley of love' given by Chiang Kai-shek to his wife, Soong Mei-ling. The garden enjoys a refreshing climate year-round with thousands of plant species, especially chrysanthemums and roses, which were her favorite flowers.

Rainbow Village

• Opening hours: 08:00 AM to 06:00 PM.
• Address: No. 56, Chun'an St, Nantun District, Taichung City, Taiwan.
• Admission: Free.

This village features a distinctive artistic style with a meaningful backstory: a man, in an effort to save his village from demolition, created vibrant murals to attract tourists.

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

• Opening hours: 09:00 AM - 06:00 PM.
• Address: No. 21, Zhongshan St, Zhongzheng District, Taipei City, Taiwan.
• Admission: Free.

The Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, also known as the National Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, was built to honor Generalissimo and former President of the Republic of China, Chiang Kai-shek. The structure features four white sides with a green octagonal roof, and each side has 89 steps, symbolizing his age at the time of his passing. This landmark is rich in cultural, historical, and architectural significance for the island.

Taiwan Travel Guide - Visiting the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (Photo: @pinoyadventurista)

Fo Guang Shan Monastery

• Opening hours: 09:00 AM - 06:00 PM.
• Address: Fo Guang Shan, Dashu District, Kaohsiung City, Taiwan.
• Admission: Free.

Located in the northeastern part of Kaohsiung, Fo Guang Shan Monastery spans 100 hectares, housing over 20 halls, pagodas, and walkways. The impressive structure leads to a towering 108-meter-tall Buddha statue. The monastery offers a serene and peaceful atmosphere, making it a must-visit destination in Kaohsiung.

Taiwan Travel Guide - Exploring the Sacred Fo Guang Shan Monastery

Delicious Taiwanese Specialties

Danzai Noodles - Taiwan

A humble street food, Danzai noodles have left a lasting impression on food lovers. Known for its chewy noodles paired with pork, shrimp, eggs, and a rich, flavorful broth, Danzai noodles are highly praised by those exploring Taiwan's culinary scene.

• Address: No. 216, Sec. 2, Minzu Rd., West Central District, Tainan, Taiwan.
• Price: Approximately 280,000 VND.

Taiwanese Iron Eggs

Despite its name which suggests a metallic nature, Taiwan's Iron Eggs are actually made by simmering chicken or quail eggs in soy sauce and distinctive spices. The dish, sold in night markets, features a deep black color and a uniquely bold flavor, making it a favored snack.

• Available at supermarkets, convenience stores, and most night markets in Taiwan.
• Price: Approximately 135,000 VND.

Taiwanese Bubble Tea

When it comes to Taiwanese cuisine, bubble tea is an iconic must-try. Typically, Taiwanese bubble tea has a strong tea flavor, paired with smooth, sweet milk and chewy tapioca pearls. Together, these elements create a flavor that is delicious without being overpowering, rich without being heavy.

• Locations: Ximending, Dongmen, Shilin; No. 9, Songshou, Xinyi; No. 45, Chengdu, Wanhua…
• Price: Approximately 50,000 - 100,000 VND.

Taiwanese bubble tea specialty (Image: @thematchasociety)

Dimsum

Dimsum, a culinary staple from the Guangdong region, is a type of steamed bun known for its delicate, thin dough and savory filling. The dumplings are often stuffed with seasoned pork, shrimp, or other meats, offering an exquisite and memorable taste experience that introduces travelers to new dimensions of Taiwanese cuisine.

• Locations: Ding Tai Fung: 45, Shifu Rd B1, Xinyi District, Taipei; Fuda Dumpling: 11, Zhongshan Rd, Taipei City.
• Price range: 150,000 - 1,000,000 VND.

Stinky Tofu

A quintessential Taiwanese delicacy, stinky tofu lives up to its name with a strong, fermented aroma often compared to mold. Despite its intimidating scent, the dish wins over many with its creamy tofu and distinctive dipping sauce, accompanied by pickled sides that add a unique and irresistible flavor profile.

• Locations: Streets in Xinyi District, Shenkeng Old Street, Shilin Night Market, and most night markets in Taiwan.
• Price range: 55,000 - 70,000 VND.

Stinky Tofu – A must-try Taiwanese delicacy that keeps you coming back for more (Image: @vnpay)

What souvenirs to buy in Taiwan? - Useful travel tips for visiting Taiwan.

Wondering what the best souvenirs to bring back from Taiwan are? Check out the details below.

Taiwanese Tea

Known for producing a wide variety of delicious and aromatic teas with rich, delicate, and refined flavors, Taiwanese tea is a must-try for tea enthusiasts and makes for an excellent souvenir to take home.

• Address: No. 443-36, Yuchi St, Yuchi Township, Nantou County, Taiwan.

Tips for buying tea in Taiwan as a souvenir

Pineapple Cake

As per Taiwan travel advice, pineapple cake is a must-buy souvenir for all tourists visiting the island. The cake typically features a soft pastry shell with fresh pineapple filling, offering a sweet, refreshing taste that is irresistibly delicious.

• Address: No. 87, Chengtai Rd., Wugu Dist, Xinbei, Taiwan.

The pineapple cake menu at Vigor Kobo includes Vietnamese as well

Jade Jewelry

One of the most popular souvenirs according to Taiwan travel experience is jade. In a country that highly values feng shui, where everything is oriented towards peace and prosperity, it is no surprise that jade jewelry is commonly sold and beloved by many.

• Available at most jewelry shops and jade markets in Kaohsiung and Taipei, Taiwan.

Nougat Candy

Taiwan's nougat candy is a famous treat, celebrated not only for its creamy, rich taste made with milk and healthful nuts but also for its symbolism of good luck, prosperity, and positive blessings.

• Address: No 5, Wuchang St, Wanhua District, Taipei, Taiwan.

What is the cost of traveling to Taiwan on your own?

For a 5-day, 4-night itinerary, here are some tips and ways to travel to Taiwan independently while saving costs. Below is an estimated cost breakdown for solo travelers in Taiwan for your reference.

*Tips for independent travel in Taiwan and estimated expenses.

The most useful tips for independent travel in Taiwan

In addition to travel tips for Taiwan and advice on visiting Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung, travelers should take note of the following to ensure the smoothest trip:

• The primary religion in Taiwan is Buddhism, so always maintain a peaceful demeanor, dress respectfully, and be polite when visiting temples and shrines.
• Although Taiwanese people use foreign languages widely, it’s helpful to learn a few basic phrases or carry a travel SIM card with data for easy communication, especially with older vendors.
• Bring a variety of cash denominations, particularly when shopping at night markets, where card payment options may be limited.
• When booking accommodation, consider the proximity to bus stations or subway lines to make your travel more convenient.
• 1kg in Taiwan is equivalent to 0.6kg internationally, so double-check items and quantities before making a purchase.
• Do not bring fresh fruits, raw foods, or meat products (like sausages, dried beef/chicken) into Taiwan, as you could face fines of up to 3 million TWD (2.4 billion VND).
• Taiwan uses flat plug sockets, so bring flat-pin chargers or a universal adapter for convenience.
• If you're not confident about traveling independently, consider booking a comprehensive Taiwan tour with a reputable travel agency. These tours are often more affordable due to government support and typically include services such as flights, visas, accommodation, meals, and transportation.

Say goodbye to the stress of packing for your Taiwan trip! Travel with confidence and explore the beautiful land of bubble tea with Mytour, using our complete travel guide to Taiwan from A to Z.

Author: Dung

Photo source: Dung & Internet