Taipei - Taiwan
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Circle Taiwan in 8 days, uncovering its striking contrasts - Taipei’s buzzing backstreets, Tainan's colonial architecture, Sun Moon Lake’s calm waters, and the southern tropics of Kenting. Along the way, discover Hakka villages, mountain hot springs, coastal temples, and street food that tells a story. This is Taiwan beyond the postcard.

Inclusions
Itinerary
Prices & Dates
Hotels

Trip Highlights

Taipei – Explore vibrant night markets and landmark sites like Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
Tainan – Discover centuries-old forts, temples, and Taiwan’s street food capital
Kenting – Soak up sea views and tropical landscapes on Taiwan’s southern tip
Hualien – Drive the wild Pacific coastline and experience indigenous culture
Sun Moon Lake – Cruise across Taiwan’s largest lake and visit lakeside temples
Kaohsiung – Stroll through the art-filled Pier-2 district and visit the colourful Dragon & Tiger Pagodas
Taitung – Relax in the lush East Rift Valley and unwind in a natural hot spring

Included

7 breakfasts
Escorted by an English-speaking tour guide (guiding may be in Mandarin as well as English, this depends on the demographics of the group)
Transportation in air-conditioned vehicles
Entrance tickets and admission fees for included sightseeing
7 nights in 4-5 star hotels
Airport transfers on day 1 and day 8
Train journey from Hualien - Yilan
Note: This tour is operated in conjunction with our trusted partner and you will join travellers from different operators, not solely On The Go

Not Included

International flights and visa
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture

Itinerary

Day 1

Taipei

Welcome to Taiwan! Upon arrival at Taoyuan International Airport, you’ll be met by your private driver and transferred directly to your hotel in Taipei. Settle into your room and take the rest of the day to relax or explore the city at your own pace.

Whether you're wandering through bustling night markets, sipping bubble tea in a local café, or admiring the skyline from Taipei 101, Taipei offers an exciting first taste of Taiwan.
Overnight: Taipei

Day 2

Taipei Landmarks Tour

We begin our exploration of Taipei at the world-renowned National Palace Museum, home to one of the largest collections of Chinese imperial art and artefacts. From ancient jade carvings to Ming porcelain, the exhibits span over 8,000 years of history. Next, we pay a visit to the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a grand monument to Taiwan’s former leader, surrounded by manicured gardens and stately architecture.

Continue with a stop at the Lungshan Temple, then ascend to the observation deck of Taipei 101 for sweeping views across the city skyline and surrounding mountains (observatory ticket is not included).
Overnight: Taipei  |  Breakfast

Day 3

Taipei to Sun Moon Lake

Taipei - Sun Moon Lake - Taichung. After a restful night, we begin our journey into the heart of Taiwan. We’ll travel from Taipei to Sun Moon Lake, named for its unique shape—sun-like in the east and moon-like in the west—divided by Lalu Island. Home to the indigenous Thao people, the area is famed for its rich culture and natural beauty. There will be free time for lunch.

Continue with a scenic bus tour around the lake, exploring its most iconic attractions. Begin at Ita Thao, an indigenous village offering insight into Thao culture and lifestyle. Then marvel at Ci’en Pagoda, a striking landmark built by President Chiang Kai-shek in memory of his mother.

Visit two significant temples: Xuanzang Temple, a peaceful Buddhist sanctuary dedicated to the monk Xuanzang, and Wenwu Temple, a grand Taoist site with halls honoring the Martial God and the God of Literature. Our guide will share the area’s cultural and historical background. Later, we will be transferred to our hotel.

Please note: Our preference is always to stay at Sun Moon Lake. However, due to limited availability, this is not always possible. Should we be unable to stay at Sun Moon Lake tonight, we will stay at a comfortable hotel in Taichung instead.
Overnight: Sun Moon Lake or Taichung  |  Breakfast

Day 4

Tainan & Kaohsiung

Taichung - Tainan - Kaohsiung. After breakfast, we head south to Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city, known for its rich history and traditional landmarks. Our first stop is Fort Zeelandia, built by the Dutch in the 17th century, where we’ll learn about Taiwan’s colonial past. From there, we’ll take a stroll through Anping Old Street, where the scents of local delicacies fill the air, and you can sample local snacks like shrimp rolls and tofu pudding.

Next, we continue our journey to Kaohsiung, the largest city in the south of Taiwan. Here, we’ll visit the impressive Fo Guang Shan Monastery, the country’s largest Buddhist complex. Walk among hundreds of golden Buddha statues and visit the Great Buddha Land and main shrine before heading to our Kaohsiung hotel.
Overnight: Kaohsiung  |  Breakfast

Day 5

Kenting National Park & Taitung

Kaohsiung - Kenting National Park - Taitung. We head towards Kenting National Park, famous for its coastal landscapes, pristine beaches, and unique geological formations. We’ll make stops at Maopitou, a rocky outcrop shaped like a crouching cat, and Chuanfan Rock, which resembles the sail of a ship.

Continuing through the park, we’ll visit Eluanpi Lighthouse and Longpan Park, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. After exploring Kenting, we’ll journey along the scenic South Link Highway to Taitung, where we’ll spend the night in a peaceful hot spring resort in Zhiben.
Overnight: Taitung  |  Breakfast

Day 6

East Coast Scenic Drive & Yilan

Taitung - Hualien - Yilan. Today, we depart as we journey along Taiwan's stunning east coast, often referred to as the island’s last unspoiled paradise. The area’s natural beauty will leave us in awe as we visit some of its most impressive scenic spots, including Xiaoyeliu, Sanxiantai, Shitiping, and Fanshuliao, each showcasing unique geological formations and breathtaking landscapes.

Our first stop is Xiaoyeliu, or Fugang Geopark, known as "Little Yehliu." This area features unique rock formations, similar to those at Yeh Liu Geopark, shaped by weathering and sea erosion.

Next, we visit Sanxiantai, "Terrace of the Three Immortals," featuring an offshore island and coral reefs. A cross-sea bridge connects the mainland to the island, making it a key landmark in the East Coast National Scenic Area.

Next, we travel to Hualien area to visit Shitiping, known as the "Stone Steps," a sea erosion terrace with promontories shaped by millions of years of coastal erosion. The area features abrasion platforms, sea grooves, cliffs, and potholes, making it a geological marvel. From Hualien, we’ll enjoy a comfortable one-way train ride to Yilan. Once we have arrived, we will make our way to a hot-spring hotel, where we will spend the night.
Overnight: Yilan  |  Breakfast

Day 7

Yilan to Taipei

Yilan - Taipei. We start the day with a visit to the King Car Kavalan Whisky Distillery, where you’ll learn about the whisky-making process and taste some of the finest local spirits. Next, we’ll head to the National Center for Traditional Arts, a cultural hub where you can experience Taiwan’s heritage through exhibitions and live performances.

In the afternoon, we return to Taipei, where you’ll have some free time to explore the city or relax at your hotel.
Overnight: Taipei  |  Breakfast

Day 8

Taipei

Your final morning in Taipei is free for you to relax or explore at your own pace. You might take a gentle stroll through a local market, enjoy a last Taiwanese breakfast, or pick up some souvenirs. At the appropriate time, you’ll be transferred to Taoyuan International Airport for your onward flight.
Breakfast

Prices & Dates

Departure dates are guaranteed with 2 travellers. 'Twin/Double' prices are per person when there are 2 people on the same booking sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers wanting the privacy of their own room, or if your booking party cannot reach the minimum of 2 persons in a room. Single Rooms can also be booked by any other person wanting the comfort and privacy of their own room.

Guaranteed Departure

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

Regent Taipei, Taipei

Our Category: Deluxe   |   Regional Category: 5 Star Hotel

Regent Taipei is a luxury hotel located in the Zhongshan District, offering spacious rooms with pillow menus, deep soaking tubs, and free Wi-Fi. Facilities include an outdoor rooftop pool, a full-service spa, a fitness centre, and eight dining options, including the acclaimed Azie Grand Café. The hotel houses the Regent Galleria, featuring boutiques like Chanel and Louis Vuitton. Nearby attractions include Dadaocheng Wharf, Chifeng Street, and Shilin Night Market, all easily accessible via the nearby Zhongshan MRT station. Taipei Songshan Airport is approximately 4 km away, and Taoyuan International Airport is about 45 km from the hotel.

The Riviera Hotel, Taipei

Our Category: Superior   |   Regional Category: 4 Star Hotel

The Riviera Hotel Taipei is a 4-star boutique hotel located in the Zhongshan District, adjacent to Taipei Expo Park and within walking distance of Shuangcheng Street Night Market, MAJI Square, and Qingguang Market. The hotel offers 112 rooms with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, mini-fridges, coffee and tea facilities, and in-room safes. Guests can enjoy a fitness centre, a rooftop garden, and three on-site restaurants serving Mediterranean, Chinese, and Western cuisine. The hotel is approximately a 7-minute walk from Zhongshan Elementary School MRT Station, providing easy access to Taipei's attractions. Nearby points of interest include the Taipei Fine Arts Museum, Dalongdong Baoan Temple, and the National Palace Museum.

Fleur de Chine Hotel - Sun Moon Lake, Taichung

Our Category: Deluxe   |   Regional Category: 5 Star Hotel

Located just across the street from Sun Moon Lake and 1 km from Wen Wu Temple, this upscale hotel offers polished, minimalist rooms with marble bathrooms, flat-screen TVs, tea and coffeemakers, and private balconies with mountain views. Guests can enjoy a variety of dining options, from casual eateries to refined Asian restaurants, including a rooftop venue with lake-view terrace. The elegant lobby lounge serves afternoon tea, while leisure facilities include indoor and outdoor pools, thermal baths, massage services, a climbing wall, outdoor theatre, kids’ playroom, and event spaces. Room service is also available.

Le Méridien Taichung, Taichung

Our Category: Deluxe   |   Regional Category: 5 Star Hotel

Located 14 km from Taichung International Airport and close to Taichung Railway Station and Taichung Park, this modern hotel offers spacious rooms with city views, comfortable bedding, air-conditioning, and contemporary amenities. Guests can enjoy a rooftop pool, fitness centre, bar, and a Cantonese restaurant serving lunch and dinner. Breakfast features continental, American, buffet, and Asian options with local specialties. Additional amenities include a 24-hour front desk and EV charging station. Outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and canoeing are nearby.

Grand Hi-Lai Kaohsiung, Kaohsiung

Our Category: Deluxe   |   Regional Category: 5 Star Hotel

Located just an 11-minute walk from the Central Park metro station, this stylish, art-filled hotel in a neoclassical building offers stunning views of Kaohsiung Harbor and is 2 km from Liuhe Night Market. The elegant rooms feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minifridges, and minibars, with options for city or harbor views. Guests can enjoy 13 restaurants, a bar, and a department store, as well as amenities including an outdoor pool, gym, and spa.

Hotel Royal Chihpin, Taitung

Our Category: Deluxe   |   Regional Category: 5 Star Hotel

Nestled in a forested setting, this upscale hotel is just 2 km from the picturesque Jhihben National Forest Recreation Area and a 3-minute walk from Qingjue Temple, with Taitung Airport 17 km away. The elegant rooms feature Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minifridges, and tea and coffeemakers, with some offering views of the mountains. The hotel boasts a spa with an indoor pool, waterslides, hot tubs, and a nude outdoor hot spring bath. Other facilities include an outdoor pool, three restaurants, and a lobby bar.

Wellspring by Silks Jiaoxi, Yilan

Our Category: Deluxe   |   Regional Category: 5 Star Hotel

Just a 3-minute walk from Jiaoxi railway station, this sleek, contemporary hot-spring hotel is also 7 minutes on foot from Jiaoxi Hot Springs Park and 3 km from Wufengchi Waterfalls. The stylish rooms, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows, offer free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars, safes, and tea and coffeemaking facilities, along with soaking tubs filled with hot spring water. The hotel’s amenities include a refined restaurant, a lounge, a rooftop terrace with a trendy bar, and a pool with geothermal water.

Hotel Royal Chiaohsi, Yilan

Our Category: Deluxe   |   Regional Category: 5 Star Hotel

Set amidst landscaped gardens, this sleek hotel is 1 km from Wufengqi Waterfall and 3 km from Jiaoxi Hot Springs Park. The relaxed suites feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minifridges, safes, and tea and coffeemaking facilities, with 24/7 room service available. Dining options include two restaurants, a bakery, and a lobby bar. Additional amenities include an 18-hole golf course, karaoke, a gift shop, a library, and a gym, along with gender-segregated communal bathhouses, outdoor hot spring baths, a spa, and meeting and event spaces.

At a Glance

Range
Trip Type
Starts
Taipei
Ends
Taipei
Departs
Sundays
Group Size
Min 1 / Max 20
Hotel Rating
4-5 star hotels
Tour Guide
Escorted by a tour guide
Meals
Breakfast: 7
Countries
Taiwan
Minimum Age
No minimum age
Arr. Transfer
Yes
Dep. Transfer
Yes
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