Taiwan is one of Asia’s easiest, safest, and most food-obsessed destinations, and once you visit, it’s hard to understand why it’s still such an underrated spot. This guide covers everything you need to know before visiting Taiwan, from visas and the best time to visit, to where to stay, how to get around, and exactly what you should eat first.
Whether you’re visiting Taiwan for the street food, the scenery, or your first deep dive into East Asia, this Taiwan guide is designed for first-timers and frequent travellers alike who want practical, no-stress prep before landing.
Pro Tip: Check this list of places to stay in Taipei, too!
Essential Pre-Trip Prep
Before you book flights or start planning your itinerary, there are a few practical things worth sorting out for Taiwan. From visa requirements and the best time to visit, to SIM cards, money, and payments, a little preparation goes a long way. Taiwan is incredibly easy to travel in, but knowing what to expect before you arrive will help you save time, avoid feeling overwhelmed, and focus on the fun stuff.
Visa & Entry
For most travellers, Taiwan is refreshingly easy when it comes to visas. Many nationalities, including Australians, Kiwis, most Europeans, the United Kingdom, the United States, and Canada, can enter Taiwan visa-free for short stays. That said, visa rules can change, so it’s always smart to double-check the latest requirements on Taiwan’s official Bureau of Consular Affairs website before locking in flights.
Make sure your passport has at least six months’ validity from your arrival date, and keep a copy of your onward or return flight handy, as immigration may ask for it.
And even if you’re from a visa-free country, take a screenshot of the entry rules you’re relying on, as it’s a handy backup if questions come up at check-in.
When to Go
The best time to visit Taiwan is generally spring (March to May) and autumn (October to November). These months bring milder temperatures, lower humidity, and far less rain than peak summer.
Summer (June to September) is hot, humid, and overlaps with typhoon season, which can affect flights and outdoor plans, especially on the east coast and in the mountains. Winter is mild in cities, but it can get chilly in places like Alishan or Taroko Gorge.
Just keep in mind that Taiwan’s weather can change quickly. Always pack a compact umbrella because you’ll use it for both rain and sun.
SIM Cards & Connectivity
Most plans in Taiwan are cheap and come with unlimited data, making navigation, translation, and food research effortless. If you prefer to arrive fully set up, buying an eSIM before you fly is a great option. Get your Taiwan eSIM here + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
Money & Payments
While Taiwan is modern, it’s still quite cash-heavy, especially at night markets and smaller local eateries. Cards and contactless payments work well in MRT stations, convenience stores, malls, and larger restaurants, but you’ll want cash for street food.
ATMs are everywhere, and topping up transport cards usually requires cash.
But while you’re in Taiwan, I still recommend bringing cash and coins as they make ordering food much smoother at busy stalls.
What to Pack When Visiting Taiwan
Packing for Taiwan is fairly straightforward, but a little preparation will make your trip far more comfortable. The weather can change quickly, cities involve plenty of walking, and you’ll likely be out exploring from morning until late at night. Having the right essentials on hand, like the correct power adapter, weather-ready clothing, and a transport card, makes a big difference.
Taiwan is also incredibly efficient, so being organised helps you move around with ease and make the most of your time. A few smart packing choices before you go will save you time, stress, and money once you arrive.
Power & Tech
Taiwan uses Type A and B power plugs with 110V electricity (similar to the US). A universal adapter is essential. Download offline Google Maps, Google Translate (with Mandarin offline), and a local transport app before you arrive.
Weather-ready Clothing
For warmer months, pack light, breathable clothes, comfortable walking shoes, and a compact umbrella. A small portable fan is a lifesaver in summer.
If you’re visiting in winter or heading to mountain areas like Alishan or Taroko Gorge, bring layers and a light jacket; it can get surprisingly cool.
Getting Around With Ease
Pick up an EasyCard or iPASS as soon as you arrive. These reloadable cards work on public transport across Taiwan, including buses, MRTs, some trains, and even convenience stores. Get your EasyCard here + use my code TRAVELFORPHOEBEKLOOK for a discount!
If you’re travelling between cities, Taiwan’s High Speed Rail (HSR) is fast, comfortable, and extremely easy to use, perfect for first-time visitors.
Best Base Areas in Taipei
Most trips to Taiwan start in Taipei, so choosing the right area to stay can make your first visit far smoother.
The good thing is the city’s MRT system is clean, easy to use, and well-connected, so basing yourself near a major station saves time and energy, especially after long days of sightseeing and eating. Different neighbourhoods offer very different vibes, from buzzing shopping districts to quieter, more local pockets with great food.
Staying central also makes day trips to places like Jiufen, Beitou, or even further afield much simpler. For first-timers, prioritising convenience, transport access, and nearby food options will set you up for a worry-free stay in Taipei.
Ximending
Often considered the best area for first-timers, Ximending is central, lively, and well-connected. You’ll find pedestrian shopping streets, street food, nightlife, and easy access to Taipei Main Station, ideal for day trips.
Xinyi
Modern and polished, Xinyi District is home to shopping malls, nightlife, and Taipei 101. It’s a great option if you want city views and a more upscale feel.
Other Convenient Neighbourhoods
- Zhongshan District & Datong District: Central, well-connected, and close to historic streets like Dihua Street.
- Da’an District / Dongmen: Quieter, greener, and fantastic for food lovers near Yongkang Street.
Outside Taipei: Easy First-Timer Bases
When outside of Taipei, Taiwan has several easy bases that are simple to add to a first trip. Taichung, Tainan, and Hualien are all well connected by train and suit different travel styles, from cities and culture to nature. Visiting one or two of these destinations alongside Taipei gives travellers a broader feel for Taiwan without complicating their itinerary.
Taichung
A relaxed city with excellent food and fewer crowds, Taichung is home to the famous Feng Chia Night Market and sits conveniently on the HSR line between north and south.
Tainan
Often called Taiwan’s cultural capital, Tainan is known for temples, old streets, and legendary local food, a must for culture lovers.
Hualien
Hualien is the main base for visiting Taroko National Park, one of Taiwan’s most spectacular natural sights, easily reached by train from Taipei.
Must-try Taiwanese Food
Before visiting Taiwan, familiarise yourself with the food as you’ll be ordering it constantly.
Food is a huge part of daily life in Taiwan, and some of the best meals are found at night markets and small local eateries. Dishes are affordable and often made for sharing, which makes it easy to try lots of different food in one day.
Absolute Must-tries
Bubble tea, beef noodle soup, xiao long bao, Taiwanese fried chicken, oyster omelette, pepper pork buns, lu rou fan (braised pork rice), and gua bao.
Night Market Favourites
Stinky tofu, scallion pancakes, peanut ice cream rolls with coriander, mochi, and grilled beef cubes.
Where to Eat
Eating in Taiwan is incredibly easy, especially for first-time visitors, thanks to its famous night markets and casual, affordable dining culture. You don’t need reservations or local knowledge to eat well here, just follow the crowds, point at what looks good, and be ready to try something new.
Taipei Night Markets
- Shilin Night Market: Huge, tourist-friendly, and famous for fried chicken.
- Raohe Night Market: Iconic pepper pork buns and classic stalls.
- Ningxia Night Market: Compact and food-focused.
You can also check this list of the best food spots in Taipei.
Getting Around Taiwan
Taiwan’s transport system is clean, affordable, and English-friendly. The MRT in Taipei is easy to use, intercity trains connect all major destinations, and the HSR makes longer journeys fast and stress-free.
The EasyCard also works on YouBike rentals, perfect for short, scenic rides.
Safety, Etiquette & Health
Taiwan is widely regarded as one of the safest countries in Asia. Violent crime is rare, and solo travellers feel comfortable even at night.
Make sure to queue politely, keep noise low on public transport, follow recycling rules, and dress respectfully at temples.
Honestly, Taiwan is easy to navigate, and it’s even the first country most people in Asia visit. And I’d say visiting Taiwan for the first time or even more, is worth it as it has a lot of delicious food, and has incredibly welcoming people.
With a little preparation and being open to try different kinds of food, it’s a destination that delivers beyond what most travellers expect, and once you’ve been, you’ll probably start planning your return before you even leave.