Taiwan Itinerary 5 Days for Family: The Perfect Guide to Explore with Kids in 2025
Looking for the perfect 5-day Taiwan itinerary that works for the whole family? Most parents want a holiday that blends culture, fun, relaxation, and child-friendly activities, without the stress of overplanning. Taiwan makes that easy. As one of the most family-friendly destinations in Asia, it offers safe cities, diverse food options (even picky eaters will find something they love), fun hands-on activities, and attractions that cater to both kids and adults.
If you only have five short days for your vacation, how should you plan it?
For first-time visitors to Taiwan, we recommend using Taipei as your home base to explore both the vibrant city center and nearby towns. This 5-day itinerary is designed to suit all ages, combining outdoor adventures, engaging entertainment, cultural sightseeing, and restful downtime. Whether you’re travelling with toddlers, teens, or grandparents, this trip ensures quality time and shared experiences for the entire family.
Where to Stay: Ximending – A Family-Friendly Hub
Many travelers love staying in Ximending, a lively district filled with exciting shops, vibrant street performers, and an endless variety of delicious street food. It’s an exciting yet manageable place to introduce kids to the city vibe.
Day 1: Arrival in Taipei & Explore the City
You’ll arrive at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), and to make your transition smooth, we can arrange a private airport transfer so your family can settle in comfortably and let the kids ease into the travel rhythm without stress.
Evening Options to Kick Off Your Taiwan Family Itinerary:
Option 1: Explore Ximending for Family Fun
Ximending is one of Taipei’s most iconic youth culture districts and a fun, stress-free way to kick off your Taiwan itinerary 5 days for family. As a pedestrian-only zone, parents don’t have to worry about traffic, while kids are free to wander safely and take in the colorful, lively street atmosphere.
Children will be captivated by the wide variety of shops and entertaining street performers. The vibrant snack stalls are perfect for trying local treats. For dinner, Ximending offers many family-friendly options, including popular hot pot restaurants and beef noodle shops—making it an ideal spot for your first night in Taiwan.
Option 2: Visit Taipei 101 and Enjoy Dinner at Din Tai Fung
Head to Taipei 101 before sunset and admire the cityscape from the observation deck. If your kids are curious about how tall buildings stand strong in an earthquake-prone region, don’t miss the massive tuned mass damper inside the tower—an engineering marvel!
Wrap up your first day with dinner at Din Tai Fung, located at the base of Taipei 101. Their famous xiao long bao (soup dumplings) and fried rice are a hit with both kids and adults. Alternatively, explore the food court below for a wide selection of meals to please picky eaters and grandparents alike.
Day 2: Family Fun Day: Animals, Scenic-view gondola & Street Food Delights in Taipei!
This exciting itinerary begins at the Taipei Zoo, where you’ll meet some of Taiwan’s most beloved wildlife. Then, soar above tea plantations and lush valleys on the scenic Maokong Gondola—a magical experience especially for kids. End the day with a flavorful adventure at Raohe Street Night Market, where the whole family can share and enjoy a variety of classic Taiwanese street snacks. It’s the perfect blend of learning, fun, and food—creating unforgettable memories for everyone!
Visit the Taipei Zoo
Taipei Zoo is one of the largest zoos in Taiwan and the perfect place to learn about the island’s unique wildlife. The zoo is well-organized with clear signage, gentle walking paths, and plenty of shaded areas, making it an ideal spot for family visits. Top attractions include the adorable giant pandas, the native Formosan black bear, and the Taiwan pangolin—one of the rarest animals in the world. The zoo also offers accessible restrooms and stroller rentals for added convenience.
Take the Maokong Gondola
Right next to the Taipei Zoo is the Maokong Gondola station. Riding the gondola is one of the most magical experiences for children. During the approximately 20-minute ride, you can enjoy views of tea plantations, valleys, and may even spot some monkeys. Once you arrive in Maokong, you can treat yourself to tea-flavored ice cream or desserts, and dine at mountain restaurants that serve tea-infused dishes while overlooking the beautiful mountain scenery and Taipei city skyline.
Evening: Dinner at Raohe Street Night Market
In the evening, stroll through Raohe Street Night Market and savor Taiwanese snacks loved even by the kids, such as fried chicken cutlets, scallion pancakes, pepper buns, and bubble tea. The great thing about night markets is that the whole family can share the food and enjoy a variety of flavors together, creating a cultural and delicious feast for everyone.
On Day 3, enjoy a family-friendly day trip to Yilan. Begin your journey at the Yilan Park of National Center for Traditional Arts, where You can experience traditional crafts such as indigo dyeing and handmade wooden chopsticks, as well as enjoy lively traditional performances throughout the park. Next, meet the internet-famous capybaras at Zhang Mei Ama Farm — a perfect stop for animal lovers and families.
The adventure continues at a local scallion farm, where you’ll experience hands-on fun by harvesting fresh scallion and learning to make your own delicious scallion pancakes. This tour is perfect for the whole family looking to enjoy authentic Taiwanese culture, interact with cute animals, and enjoy the flavors of Yilan — all in one relaxing day.
Discover the Yilan Park of National Center for Traditional Arts
Step into a world of Taiwanese culture at the National Center for Traditional Arts in Yilan. This beautifully designed cultural park features restored traditional architecture, interactive exhibits, and daily performances that bring Taiwan’s artistic heritage to life. Stroll along old-style streets lined with handmade crafts, local snacks, and engaging workshops. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast or a casual traveler, this destination offers a deep dive into Taiwan’s rich traditions and folk arts — a must-visit for those exploring Yilan.
Meet the Adorable Capybaras at Zhang Mei Ama Farm
Looking for a unique animal experience in Taiwan? Visit Zhang Mei Ama Farm in Yilan to meet the internet-famous capybaras! This charming farm offers up-close encounters with these gentle creatures, making it a favorite spot for animal lovers and families with kids. In addition to capybaras, you’ll also find other friendly animals. It’s a relaxing and fun-filled stop that adds a touch of cuteness to your Yilan day trip.
Make Scallion Pancake at Yilan’s Famous Scallion Farm
Get your hands dirty and your taste buds happy at a Yilan scallion farm, where you can pick fresh green onions and learn to make your own crispy scallion pancakes (cong you bing). This interactive farm-to-table experience is perfect for foodies and families looking to explore Taiwan’s rural lifestyle and iconic street food culture. It’s both educational and delicious — and you’ll leave with not only a full stomach, but great memories too.
Day 4: Family Fun and Relaxation: Pineapple Cakes, Hot Springs & Sky Lanterns in Taipei
Today, this family itinerary combines hands-on cultural fun, relaxing natural hot springs, and a magical traditional experience. Start the morning making delicious pineapple cakes together, then unwind in the soothing hot springs at Beitou Hot Spring. End the day with a memorable sky lantern release in charming Shifen Old Street, where the whole family can share wishes and enjoy a beautiful cultural tradition.
Morning: Family-Friendly Pineapple Cake Making Workshop
Start the day with a hands-on, family-friendly pineapple cake making class. Kids will love getting involved—kneading dough, filling the cakes, and tasting their own creations. This interactive workshop offers a fun cultural experience and creates lasting memories for the whole family.
Afternoon: Relaxing Hot Spring Time at Beitou Spring City Resort
Beitou is renowned for its natural hot springs, and its public bathhouses are equipped with a variety of spa facilities designed to soothe tired muscles, improve blood circulation, and rejuvenate both body and mind. With family-friendly amenities and relaxing spa features, Beitou offers the perfect setting for parents and children to enjoy quality time together while experiencing the healing power of its renowned hot springs.
Evening: Sky Lantern Experience in Shifen
In the afternoon, head to the picturesque Shifen Old Street for a traditional sky lantern release. Write your wishes on the lanterns and watch them float up into the sky, symbolizing hope and happiness. This unique activity is perfect for families and a wonderful way to experience Taiwan’s rich cultural traditions.
Day 5: Flexible Departure Day – Tailored to Your Flight Time
The final day of your 5 -days Taiwan family vacation can be adjusted based on your flight schedule. To ensure a stress-free end to your trip, we can arrange a private airport transfer, making it easy to travel with your luggage and gifts, and wrapping up your Taiwan family journey with comfort and ease.
If you’re catching a morning flight, take it easy—sleep in, enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel, and squeeze in some last-minute shopping. If you’re staying near Ximending, there’s a 24-hour Carrefour nearby—perfect for picking up souvenirs and Taiwanese snacks for friends and family back home.
Final Shopping at Dihua Street
If your flight is in the afternoon, you still have time for a short outing.
Step into Dihua Street, one of the most historic and culturally rich areas in Taipei. This charming old street is lined with well-preserved century-old buildings and traditional shophouses, offering a nostalgic glimpse into Taiwan’s past. It’s a favorite spot for older family members, who enjoy exploring traditional Chinese medicine shops, fabric stores, and shops selling local snacks, dried goods, and cooking ingredients. At the same time, younger travelers will love browsing the many creative and artsy boutiques for unique and tasteful gifts.
Perfect for a Taiwan itinerary for family, Dihua Street is a place where generations can connect through culture, shopping, and timeless local charm.
Conclusion
This carefully crafted Taiwan itinerary 5 days for family is perfect for first-time visitors. It combines cultural experiences, hands-on activities, animal interactions, delicious food, and shopping. The pace is relaxed, allowing for both exciting exploration and plenty of downtime. Of course, if you wish to customize any part of the trip, we are happy to tailor it to your needs.
Create Your Trip Now!
Tips for a Carefree Family Trip
Here are a few things we can take care of when planning your trip, to help you and your family enjoy the journey more smoothly:
Stay Flexible: Don’t pack the itinerary too tightly. When your family feels tired, you can take a break or have a restful nap. Parents can also enjoy some relaxed coffee time while the kids recharge.
Have a Rainy Day Plan: If you’re traveling with us, we’ll keep an eye on the weather for you. When needed, we’ll adjust the itinerary and prepare indoor-friendly alternatives so a little rain won’t spoil the fun.
Be Ready for Emergencies: When traveling abroad, kids may occasionally feel unwell due to changes in weather or food. Our guide will be your best local support, ready to assist with any urgent situation.
Capture the Memories: If your family loves taking photos, let us know! Our guide will be happy to help you capture joyful moments throughout the trip so you can preserve those special memories.
FAQs
1. Is Taiwan a good destination for family travel with kids?
Yes. Taiwan is an excellent choice for a family vacation. It is safe, clean, and packed with activities children can enjoy. There is baby-friendly transport and shops with baby facilities in large cities.
2. What should I pack for a 5-day family trip to Taiwan with kids?
It’s recommended to pack clothing appropriate for the season—dressing in layers (the “onion style”) usually works best in Taiwan’s changing weather.
Don’t forget sunscreen, insect repellent, and any essential medications for your family. If you plan to enjoy water activities or visit public hot springs, be sure to bring swimwear.
For those traveling with toddlers, you only need to pack enough diapers for the first day—diapers and baby essentials are easily available in Taiwan. To help children feel more secure, consider bringing their favorite picture books or small toys.
If you need a stroller, we can assist with rental services. We also offer complimentary child car seats or booster cushions during the trip.
3. What’s the best way to get around? Can I explore Taiwan with kids using public transport?
Taipei’s MRT system is very convenient, allowing families to travel easily even with young children. However, choosing a private driver-guide and chartered vehicle offers a more comfortable and stress-free travel experience. We provide customized private transfer services based on your group size, with a dedicated guide who will take great care of your family and share cultural insights and local food recommendations along the way.