The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in Taiwan in 2026 | Must-Visit Attractions and Transportation Tips for 22 Counties and Cities

If you're searching for the perfect travel destination for your 2026 holiday, whether you're looking for a quick weekend getaway or planning an extended relaxation trip, Taiwan is undoubtedly your top choice! For readers in Hong Kong, reaching this beautiful island is just a short flight of one to two hours away. Meanwhile, for local friends in Taiwan, there’s no need to deal with the hassle of international travel procedures, as you can experience a variety of unique cultures across different counties and cities. This time, Kinnso has meticulously compiled the latest 2026 one-day travel guide to Taiwan, systematically categorizing the tourist hotspots in all 22 counties and cities. From breathtaking forest trails and hidden waterfall sanctuaries to romantic garden farms and charming old streets filled with artistic vibes, let’s embark on this enchanting journey through Taiwan together!

Before you start planning your trip, there's an essential high-speed rail transportation discount that you absolutely cannot miss! When it comes to traveling, one of the biggest concerns for everyone is often the cost of transportation, especially during long holidays. High-speed rail tickets can be hard to come by, and the total ticket prices can add up to a significant expense. Currently, Taiwan's high-speed rail has launched a fantastic "Domestic Travel Joint Ticket" program. By purchasing tickets for designated attractions online and adding high-speed rail tickets, you can enjoy a remarkable 15% discount at all times! The best part is that this offer is valid even during the Lunar New Year and consecutive holidays, with no restrictions on train types or schedules. For instance, if you're planning to visit the Taipei 101 Observation Deck, the Xpark Aquarium in Taoyuan's Qingpu, or the Chimei Museum in Tainan, you can save a considerable amount on travel expenses by bundling your tickets together. For those who love to plan their itineraries in advance, this is undoubtedly the best option that balances convenience and budget.

For first-time visitors to Taiwan or those who appreciate convenient transportation, the Greater Taipei area is always a classic choice. New Taipei City boasts a vast expanse filled with rich cultural history and geological wonders. You can plan a day trip to the North Coast, cruising along the stunning coastline, visiting the historically significant Fort San Domingo in Tamsui, or heading to Yehliu Geopark to admire the world-renowned Queen's Head rock formation. When you feel tired from exploring, find a seaside café to relax in, letting the ocean breeze wash away your work-related worries. If you enjoy hot springs, the geothermal areas of Beitou and Wulai will surely captivate you, especially during the cooler seasons when soaking in the warm waters is an unparalleled delight.

If you're looking to stay in the city, the Muzha District in Taipei is an excellent destination for a leisurely day. You can easily reach Muzha by taking the MRT and start your visit at the zoo, where you can spot adorable animals. Afterward, hop on the Maokong Gondola to ascend to the mountaintop. Once in Maokong, find a tea house with stunning views to savor locally produced Tieguanyin tea, paired with exquisite snacks, while overlooking the beautiful transition of day and night across the Taipei basin. The walking trails here are well-planned, featuring hidden natural gems like the Paozilun Waterfall, making it a perfect spot for a stroll with family and friends to enjoy the fresh air.

Travel Tips and Useful Information: To reach the North Coast, it is recommended to take a bus from Taipei Main Station or to rent a car for more flexibility. If you choose to take the Taipei Metro to Muzha, it is advisable to purchase a one-day pass (approximately NT$150 / HK$37), which allows unlimited rides and is very cost-effective for itineraries that require frequent transfers. The night view from Maokong is particularly enchanting, so it is best to head up in the evening to enjoy both the sunset and the dazzling night scenery.

Leaving behind the bustling city, let us turn our steps towards the scenic beauty of Yilan and the Hualien-Taitung region. Yilan has long been a favorite escape for urban dwellers seeking tranquility, with the highlight undoubtedly being the "Taipingshan National Forest Recreation Area." This location boasts exceptionally clean surroundings, towering trees that reach for the sky, and mountains that cascade upon one another, creating a breathtaking landscape. You can stroll into the "Jianqing Nostalgia Trail" in the early morning, immersing yourself in the ethereal atmosphere enveloped in mist; or ride the vintage-style Taipingshan tram, weaving through the lush forest. Before heading down, don’t forget to visit the Jiuzi Zhe Hot Springs, where the spring water displays a captivating light blue hue. After soaking, your skin will feel incredibly smooth, and you can also enjoy the fun of cooking hot spring eggs in the geothermal pools.

Continuing southward, Hualien and Taitung preserve the most pristine natural beauty of Taiwan. Taitung's Bolang Avenue is famous for its endless waves of rice paddies. Whether in the lush green of early summer or the golden hues of the autumn harvest, cycling through this landscape is a refreshing experience. Hualien's coastline, combined with the majestic Taroko Gorge, presents breathtaking natural wonders at every turn. There's no need to over-schedule your itinerary here; simply find a seaside guesthouse, fall asleep to the sound of the waves, and you’ll have the ultimate travel experience.

Travel Tips and Useful Information: The operating hours for the Tai Ping Shan Park are from 6:00 AM to 8:00 PM on weekdays, and on weekends, it opens earlier at 4:00 AM, making it convenient for visitors to ascend the mountain to catch the sunrise. It is recommended to drive or hire a car for the journey, as it takes approximately two hours from Yilan City. Due to the cooler temperatures in the mountainous area, even during the summer months, it is essential to bring an extra windproof and warm jacket.

Central and southern Taiwan not only boasts sunny weather but also offers numerous attractions perfect for family outings. The Xitou Nature Education Area in Nantou is a year-round retreat ideal for escaping the heat. This area features expansive bamboo groves and towering ancient trees, with the refreshing scent of nature filling the air, making it an excellent spot for forest bathing. Adjacent to Xitou is the "Yokai Village," which is rich in Japanese mythological themes, showcasing a variety of creative shops and unique snacks, making it a great place for families or couples to take memorable photos. You can plan a two-day, one-night trip to explore all the nearby attractions in one go.

Traveling south, we arrive at the vibrant port city of Kaohsiung and the southern border of Pingtung. In 2026, Kaohsiung showcases many stunning new features, including the newly renovated Shoushan Zoo, an educational Aviation Museum, and the exotic Starlight Night Market, all of which make the city more lively and interesting. You can ride the light rail to navigate through the city or take a romantic gondola ride along the Love River. In addition to the spectacular Ocean Museum and the serene Sichongxi Hot Springs, Pingtung's sunshine and beaches in Kenting instantly immerse you in a vacation vibe. The unique coral reef formations and crystal-clear blue waters make it hard to leave, whether you're snorkeling, playing in the water, or simply lounging on the beach.

Travel Tips and Useful Information: When visiting the central and southern regions, it is highly recommended to take advantage of the high-speed rail combined with car rentals for transportation. Both Taichung and Zuoying (Kaohsiung) high-speed rail stations offer a wealth of car rental options. The Kenting area experiences intense sunlight, so be sure to take proper sun protection measures and stay hydrated. If you plan to visit the National Museum of Marine Biology and Aquarium, the ticket price is approximately NT$450 (around HK$112). It is advisable to purchase electronic tickets online in advance to avoid waiting in line on-site.

If you have a bit more time for your vacation, Taiwan's outlying islands are definitely worth a special visit. Penghu is renowned for its abundant marine resources and delicious seafood. Here, you can enjoy the thrill of going out to sea to catch lobsters or paddle a transparent kayak over the clear waters to admire the coral reefs. Kinmen, on the other hand, offers a completely different battlefield history and beautiful exotic architecture. The Kinmen version of the "Moses parting the sea" spectacle is truly awe-inspiring. As for Xiaoliuqiu, it is a paradise for diving enthusiasts. When you snorkel here, you have almost a 100% chance of swimming alongside wild sea turtles, experiencing the thrill of close encounters with marine life.

Travel Tips and Useful Information: To reach the outlying islands, you typically need to take a domestic flight or a ferry. Traveling by boat from the main island of Taiwan (such as Budai in Chiayi or Donggang in Pingtung) to Penghu or Xiao Liuqiu is quite convenient. However, if you are prone to seasickness, be sure to take motion sickness medication at least half an hour before departure. The ecological environment of the outlying islands is very fragile, so when enjoying activities by the sea or diving, please opt for marine-friendly sunscreen and absolutely avoid touching or chasing sea turtles. Let’s work together to protect this beautiful ocean.

Whether you prefer to wander beneath the vibrant neon lights of the city or yearn for the tranquil morning light among the mountains; whether you enjoy tasting the local street food at night markets or savoring the laid-back moments on an island, Taiwan's 22 counties and cities can fulfill all your travel fantasies. Before you embark on your journey, consider saving this handy guide and taking advantage of discounts on transportation, such as high-speed rail, to plan an exciting trip to Taiwan in 2026 for yourself and your travel companions!