8-Day Highlights of Taiwan - Taipei, Yilan, Sun Moon Lake, Alishan and Taichung Tour
This guided Taiwan tour is perfect for first-time visitors, covering all the must-see highlights. All you need to do is book your flight, and you can effortlessly enjoy an unforgettable journey and travel in Taiwan like a local.
You’ll stay at a relaxing hot spring hotel and experience the charming rural life of Yilan. Explore Taipei, where traditional culture meets modern trends, and marvel at the dramatic coastal formations of Yehliu. Stroll through the mountain-surrounded streets of Jiufen to sample local snacks, and release sky lanterns in Shifen Old Street. You’ll also marvel at the breathtaking Sun Moon Lake, the scenic Alishan mountains, and the vibrant city of Taichung.
Along the way, enjoy authentic cultural experiences, comfortable accommodations, delicious local cuisine, and unforgettable moments that make your Taiwan trip truly special.
Note: Due to the impact of the 2024 earthquake, all main attractions and trails at Taroko National Park is currently closed. As a result, this itinerary does not include Taroko. We look forward to the day when Taroko National Park reopens and hope to explore it with you in the future.
Highlights of the Tour
Relax in a Hot Spring Hotel
In addition to the public hot springs, the hotel offers private hot springs in your room, allowing you to enjoy a relaxing getaway. Start your journey by unwinding from the fatigue of your flight and get ready for the exciting adventures ahead.
Marvel at the Rock Formations in Yehliu National Geo Park
Yehliu Geopark, located along Taiwan’s stunning North Coast, is one of the island’s must-visit natural attractions. This world-famous destination is celebrated for its otherworldly rock formations, shaped over centuries by wind and sea erosion. Among its many geological marvels, the most iconic is the Queen’s Head—a natural stone sculpture that resembles the elegant profile of a queen, and a symbol of Yehliu itself.
Stroll Through the Historic Jiufen Old Street
Jiufen, one of Taiwan’s most iconic destinations, is a former gold mining town nestled in the hills of New Taipei City, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. This picturesque village is best known for its narrow lanes, traditional teahouses, and historic architecture built along steep slopes, creating postcard-perfect views that attract visitors from around the world.
Jiufen Old Street is lined with red lanterns, vintage buildings, and a wide variety of Taiwanese street food, such as taro balls, herbal rice cakes, and peanut ice cream rolls. Be sure to stop by one of the many mountainside teahouses, where you can sip traditional Taiwanese tea while enjoying panoramic views of the sea and sky.
Release a Sky Lantern and Make a Wish in Shifen
Releasing a sky lantern in Shifen is one of Taiwan’s most enchanting cultural traditions. Located in the scenic Pingxi District, Shifen is famous for having the opportunity to write your wishes or prayers on colorful lanterns before sending them floating into the night sky. This unique activity attracts travelers seeking a memorable and photogenic experience during their Taipei day trip or Taiwan North Coast tour.
Discover Taipei’s Top Attractions
Visit Taipei’s top highlights while experiencing the charm of both old Taipei and its modern trends. Explore Longshan Temple, witness the changing of the guard at Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, savor the famous xiao long bao at Din Tai Fung, enjoy panoramic views from Taipei 101, stroll along Dihua Street, and end your day at Ningxia Night Market.
Go Boating and Cycling at Sun Moon Lake
Sun Moon Lake is one of Taiwan’s most iconic scenic spots, known for its calm waters and mountain views. Take a relaxing boat cruise to soak in the beauty from the water, and hop on a bike ride along the lakeside trails—a route nominated by CNN as one of the most breathtaking cycling paths in the world—for a refreshing experience.
Explore Alishan and Ride the Iconic Forest Railway
Located in Taiwan’s mid-altitude mountains, Alishan is a must-visit destination renowned for its pristine forests and stunning scenery. Wander along picturesque hiking trails, marvel at centuries-old sacred trees, and ride the nostalgic Alishan Forest Railway as it winds through mist-shrouded mountains—a unique journey that beautifully blends nature and history.
Savor Local Delights at Feng-Chia Night Market, A Food Paradise
Taiwan’s nightlife comes alive at Fengjia Night Market, one of the biggest and most popular markets in the country. Indulge in street food favorites like bubble tea, fried chicken, and creative snacks, or browse trendy clothes and gadgets while soaking up the lively atmosphere.
Itinerary for the Highlights of Taiwan Tour
Day 1 Welcome to Taiwan and transfer to Yilan
We will meet you at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), Songshan Airport (TSA) or Keelung Port according to your flight arrival time.
Next, we will head to Yilan (75-90 minutes). Tonight, you will be staying at a hotel with a private hot spring in your room, perfect for relaxing and easing the fatigue from your flight.
The rest of the day will be your own leisure time. Dinner is at your own expense (Free and Easy. No itinerary, private vehicle and tour guide.)
Overnight at Four Points by Sheraton Jiaoxi or same level
Day 2 Yilan
09 : 00 Depart from the hotel
10 : 00 Kavalan Whisky Distillery :
- Kavalan Whisky Distillery is Taiwan’s pioneer in whisky production, globally renowned for its award-winning single malts. Visitors can learn about the whisky-making process to enhance their whisky knowledge, and may also join a tasting session at their own expense.
12 : 00 Lunch
13 : 30 Experience tea picking and tea making in a tea plantation
15 : 30 Scallion picking and pancake making at Yilan’s famous scallion farm
- “Sanxing Scallion” is the most well-known scallion in Taiwan, you can wear boots and go pick scallion by yourself. After picking some scallion, wash them and make the pancakes.
16 : 30 Drive to Taipei
Overnight at Just Sleep Ximending or same level (Dinner is at your own expense)
Day 3 Yehliu, Jiufen Shifen
09 : 00 Depart from the hotel
10 : 00 Yehliu Geopark
12 : 00 The Golden Waterfall: flowing treasure
12 : 30 Jiufen old street (You will enjoy lunch here on your own)
15 : 30 Shifen old street
16 : 30 Let’s make a wish – sky lantern releasing
18 : 00 Back to Taipei
Overnight at Just Sleep Ximending or same level (Dinner is at your own expense)
Day 4 Taipei
09 : 00 Depart from the hotel
09 : 30 Longshan Temple
11 : 00 Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall & the changing of the guard
12 : 30 Lunch at Din Tai Fung
13 : 30 Taipei 101 Observatory
15 : 30 Dihua Street
18 : 00 Drop you off at Ningxia Night Market or hotel (Dinner is at your own expense)
Overnight at Just Sleep Ximending or same level
Day 5 Sun Moon Lake
08 : 00 Depart from the Hotel
08 : 00 -11 : 00 Drive to Sun Moon Lake (approx. 3 hours)
11 : 00 Cycling along scenic lakeside trails
13 : 00 Lunch
14 : 00 Boat ride on the lake
15 : 30 Ita Thao Street (Dinner is at your own expense)
18 : 00 Check-in at a local guesthouse (B&B / Minsu)
Day 6 Alishan
09 : 00 Depart from the guesthouse
09:00 -12:00 Drive to Alishan (approx. 3 hours)
12:00 Lunch
12: 30 Alishan National Scenic Area
- Sacred forest trail hiking
- Alishan railway experience (branch line)
16 : 30 Check-in at a local 3-star hotel or guesthouse (B&B / Minsu)
17 : 30 Dinner
18 : 30 Back to the accommodation
Day 7 Taichung
09 : 00 Depart from the hotel
09 : 00-12:00 Drive to Taichung (approx. 3 hours)
12 : 00 Lunch
13 : 30 Wufeng Ling Family
15 : 00 Miyahara Eye Hospital
17 : 00 Bubble Tea Making
18 : 30 A Food Paradise: Feng-Chia Night Market (Dinner is at your own expense)
Overnight at La Vida Hotel
or same level
Day 8 Depart and Hope to See You Again Soon
Before departure, it will be your own leisure time (Free and Easy. No itinerary, private vehicle and tour guide.)
We will drop you up at the airport according to your departure time. (It takes approximately 2 hours to get to the airport)
Tour Details
Minimum Numbers
2 adults
Availability
Daily departure (No tours during the Lunar New Year period.)
Meeting point
We will meet you at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), Songshan Airport (TSA) or Keelung Port according to your flight arrival time. * Please note that if group members are traveling on different flights, additional fees may apply.
When to book
Book 7 days in advance
What to bring
Comfortable walking shoes, a light jacket, sun protection, and insect repellent are recommended. Please avoid wearing brightly colored clothing or perfume to reduce the risk of attracting wasps.
Price
Adult (Over 6 years old)
2 travelers: 2140 USD per person
3 travelers: 1850 USD per person
4–5 travelers: 1620 USD per person
6-9 travelers: 1550 USD per person
10-12 travelers: 1380 USD per person
Child (3 to 6 years old)
1380 USD per person
Infant (0 to 2 years old)
Free of charge. (Please note that at least one adult must accompany any infant on the tour.)
Single Supplement
545 USD per person
Inclusion
Accommodation
7 nights of accommodation
For accommodation types and ratings, please refer to the itinerary.
Food
Day 1: None
Day 2: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 3: Breakfast
Day 4: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 5: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 6: Breakfast & Lunch & Dinner
Day 7: Breakfast & Lunch
Day 8: Breakfast
Mineral water every day
Admissions
Tea-picking and making experience, scallion picking and pancake making, Yehliu Geo Park, sky lantern releasing, Taipei 101 Observatory, Boat Ride on Sun Moon Lake, Cycling along the Sun Moon Lake trail, Alishan National Scenic Area, Alishan Railway Experience (Branch Line), Wufeng Ling Family, bubble tea making
Tour Guide
A great English speaking guide (All of our guides are fluent in Mandarin as well.)
* If you require a Spanish-speaking guide, please contact us.
Transportation
2 people: 5-seater sedan
3–7 people: 8-seater van
8–12 people: 20-seater minibus
Others
A bottle of mineral water everyday, travel insurance and of course, memories that money can't buy!
Please note that tips for your tour guide are NOT included.
Contact us to Book the Highlights of Taiwan Tour
Don’t just take our word for it. Read what our previous clients have to say about us!
Looking for a customized, tailor-made Taiwan itinerary?
If you prefer a fully customized itinerary, feel free to fill out our Create Your Trip form, and one of our tour consultant will contact you to design your perfect trip.
Frequently Asked Questions for the Highlights of Taiwan Tour
Why Choose Topology Travel’s Highlights of Taiwan Tour?
We’ve carefully curated the must-see attractions in Taiwan, along with engaging hands-on cultural experiences. In approximately one week, you’ll enjoy a comfortable travel pace while still discovering the very best these regions have to offer.
Our Highlights of Taiwan tour is a small-group experience, limited to a maximum of 12 travelers. This allows you to meet new friends while still enjoying quality time with your family or companions. (Of course, you can also upgrade to a private tour for an even more exclusive experience.)
In contrast, many tours on the market operate with large groups of 20 to 30 people, which can easily impact the quality of your trip and cause delays that eat into your valuable sightseeing time.
Plus, our guides are not only knowledgeable but also passionate about what they do. They go beyond simply taking you to the attractions, sharing fascinating local stories and insider tips—including must-try local delicacies—making your journey truly unforgettable.
What’s the difference between a package tour and a customised tour?
Our package tours are thoughtfully designed by our travel specialists to highlight the best of Taiwan’s regions. If you don’t have the time to research and plan your trip, a package tour is a time-saving option that still lets you experience the most exciting and iconic parts of Taiwan.
Package tours come with a fixed itinerary and cannot be modified based on individual preferences. However, if you find a package you like but would like to make some adjustments—or if you’d prefer to design your trip from scratch—you’re welcome to contact us via TW@topologytravel.com or fill out our Create your Trip form.
We’ll be happy to personalise your itinerary, but please note that the pricing for customised tours will differ from standard package tours.
Is this Highlights of Taiwan Tour suitable for children or seniors?
Overall, this itinerary is gentle and easy-paced. However, the trails in Jiufen and the Alishan area have many stairways, making them unsuitable for strollers. If you are traveling with young children or elderly family members, please carefully assess their physical condition before visiting.
Is this itinerary wheelchair accessible?
This itinerary is not wheelchair accessible. If your group includes wheelchair users but still wishes to visit Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, or the Taichung area, please contact us via TW@topologytravel.com or fill out our Create your Trip form. Our tour consultant will create a customized itinerary tailored to the needs and comfort of wheelchair users, ensuring an enjoyable and suitable travel experience.
What if the minimum group size isn’t met? How can I still join the tour?
You can still join the tour by covering the cost equivalent to the minimum required number of participants.
If I Have Less Than a Week to Travel, Can This Itinerary Be Condensed?
Please contact us, and we will customize the itinerary based on the actual number of days you have for your trip.
Can I extend my trip?
Absolutely! You may add additional packages or contact us directly, and your tour consultant will recommend itineraries based on your total travel days.
If I’m arriving in Taipei by cruise ship, is this itinerary suitable for me?
Yes, this itinerary can be tailored to match your cruise arrival time.
If I Want to Extend My Trip, Can You Help Me Book Accommodations?
Yes, please contact us and let us know your preferred accommodation type or hotel category.
What type of accommodation is included in this itinerary? What room types are provided? And is it possible to upgrade or change the room type?
- In Yilan, you will stay one night at a 4-star hot spring hotel.
- In Taipei, you will stay three nights at Just Sleep Ximending, located in the Ximending shopping district, or at a hotel of equivalent standard.
- At Sun Moon Lake, you will stay one night at a charming local guesthouse. We select these guesthouses to provide an authentic Taiwanese homestay experience. The rooms are clean and comfortable, roughly equivalent to a 3-star hotel.
- In Alishan, you will stay one night at a 3-star hotel or local guesthouse. Please note that accommodations in the mountain area are basic due to limited resources.
- In Taichung, you will stay at a 4-star hotel near Fengjia Night Market, such as La Vida, or a hotel of equivalent standard.
Rooms are set up as double occupancy. Please let us know in advance whether you prefer a large bed or two twin beds. You may also upgrade to a single room by paying the single supplement. If you prefer other room configurations, such as triple or quad rooms, please inform us ahead of time, and we will do our best to accommodate your request (additional costs may apply).
If you’re not comfortable staying in guesthouses and would prefer to upgrade all accommodations to 4- or 5-star hotels, please let us know. We will be happy to provide a customized quote for you.
What if I have special dietary requirements—can the meal menu be adjusted to accommodate my needs?
Yes, absolutely. If you have vegetarian, halal, or other special dietary needs, please let us know in advance, and we will make the necessary arrangements for you.
How to book this Highlights of Taiwan Tour? ?
Please fill out the online form and our tour consultant will contact you. Your reservation will be confirmed once full payment is received.
What if I need to cancel my Taiwan tour?
For details, please refer to our Terms and Conditions.
What should I prepare before visiting Taiwan?
Please make sure to check whether you need a visa to enter Taiwan.
You can find up-to-date information on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website
If a visa is required, please apply according to the official government regulations
How should I pack for the Highlights of Taiwan Tour?
Please refer to our “Read Before You Go” guide to help you choose appropriate clothing based on the season of your visit.