100% customisable travel idea

First steps in Taiwan Urban adventures and insightful encounters

Taiwan - Taipei - Tainan

Exploring Taiwan

From $4100 to $5400 per person for 10 days Price depends on departure city, season, accomodation types and selected activities

Itinerary highlights

  • In just a few days, you can soak up the cosmopolitan atmosphere of little-known Taiwan, where vibrant traditions and bold modernity coexist.
  • Move seamlessly from Taipei, the ultra-modern capital, to Tainan, the city of temples, and enjoy a wealth of encounters and experiences.
  • Taipei with friends: tea ceremony, night market, Buddhist temple, hot springs - it’s all already planned!
  • Direct flights, private transfers, train connections, Wi-Fi, Concierge service: travel with Voyageurs.

We do not know much about Taiwan. And it's a real boon. Because it's often seen as just a stopover, the island of the dragon has plenty to offer and deserves to be considered a destination in its own right. And for a first taste of Ilha Formosa (“beautiful island”, the name given by Portuguese sailors when they discovered it), explore Taipei in the north and then Tainan in the south, each offering a glimpse of incredible treasures. With its population of 2.6 million, Taipei is the cultural and political heart of the island. It's a city where creativity bursts from every corner, a whirlwind of modernity where soaring skyscrapers, high-tech company headquarters and an ultra-efficient public transport system coexist. Yet this avant-garde energy sits in perfect harmony with traditional markets, polytheistic temples and lush urban spaces - urban jungles where tropical plants cascade from rooftops to pavements. Taiwan is full of contrasts and contradictions. You feel it even more during the second stop-off in Tainan,, just two hours away by train. The former capital stands as guardian of Taiwanese history and cuisine. Its culinary scene is a feast for the senses, while its historic landmarks tell the story of a rich cultural heritage, from the Dutch colonial era to the time of Japanese rule. The old outpost, the Dutch fort, and the Tree House, a spectacular tangle of banyan roots engulfing the ruins of a former warehouse, are among the unforgettable sights that linger in your memory. Back in Taipei, the last few days provide a leisurely opportunity to explore anything missed on the first visit. Located on the “Ring of Fire”, the island is home to several active volcanoes, including Datun. While the Taiwanese may fear eruptions, they are happy to enjoy the many hot springs created by geothermal activity and have perfected the art of bathing over generations. A final dip in a hot bath lets you unwind from the emotions of the journey, and perhaps even start dreaming of your return.

Your trip

On this island, barely larger than Burgundy, travelling from north to south is effortless. Private transfers and short train journeys are fast, reliable and ideal for relaxed sightseeing along the way. Both your accommodations take you to the heart of things and immerse you in the varied atmospheres of Taiwan. First wander around a trendy address in one of the capital’s most vibrant districts, Ximending, the temple of shopping and street art, nicknamed the “Shibuya of Taipei” for its lively, Tokyo-like atmosphere. In Tainan, the city of temples, a traditionalminsu in the historic centre welcomes you. And, back in Taipei,your modern hotel overlooking the gigantic Taipei 101, gives you new perspectives on the city. To help you soak up the local atmosphere, we've added a series of carefully selected activities to your itinerary: explore Taipei with a local, complete with insider tips; take part in a traditional tea ceremony, performed with meticulous artistry, and then explore the lively atmosphere of a night market; enjoy a tour of Tainan with a guide; savour a delicious dinner featuring local specialities; discover the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist temple and the Meinong craft village; and end your trip on a relaxing note at the Beitou hot springs before your flight home. Perhaps you would like to extend your journey between Tainan and Taipei with a short getaway to Sun Moon Lake? In that case, just let us know. Should anything unexpected arise, our on-site Concierge is there to assist you, ready to adjust your trip in collaboration with your travel specialist to meet your wishes throughout your stay.
Quartier de Ximending - Taipei - Taiwan © Ethan Chan / Unsplash
Quartier de Ximending - Taipei - Taiwan © Ethan Chan / Unsplash
Maison et jardin de la famille Lin à Taipei - Taipei - Taïwan © Sanga / Adobe Stock
Maison et jardin de la famille Lin à Taipei - Taipei - Taïwan © Sanga / Adobe Stock
Shifen Station - Pingxi District - New Taipei City - Taïwan © Arstin Chen / Unsplash
Shifen Station - Pingxi District - New Taipei City - Taïwan © Arstin Chen / Unsplash
Amba Taipei Ximending - Taipei - Taiwan © Amba Taipei Ximending
Amba Taipei Ximending - Taipei - Taiwan © Amba Taipei Ximending
Minsu Laile - Tainan - Taïwan © Droits réservés
Minsu Laile - Tainan - Taïwan © Droits réservés
Tainan Art Museum - Tainan - Taïwan © Mings / Unsplash
Tainan Art Museum - Tainan - Taïwan © Mings / Unsplash
Patisseries et thé - Tainan Art Museum - Tainan - Taïwan © Jasmine Huang / Unsplash
Patisseries et thé - Tainan Art Museum - Tainan - Taïwan © Jasmine Huang / Unsplash
Gare - Taipei - Taïwan © Jun Hong Tan / Unsplash
Gare - Taipei - Taïwan © Jun Hong Tan / Unsplash
Danshui - New Taipei City - Taïwan © Luke Lung / Unsplash
Danshui - New Taipei City - Taïwan © Luke Lung / Unsplash
Xinyi District - Taipei City - Taïwan © Belle Co / Pexels
Xinyi District - Taipei City - Taïwan © Belle Co / Pexels
Shennong Street - Tainan - Taiwan © Adobe Stock
Shennong Street - Tainan - Taiwan © Adobe Stock
Shifen Station - Pingxi District - New Taipei City - Taïwan © Ivan Hutomo / Unsplash
Shifen Station - Pingxi District - New Taipei City - Taïwan © Ivan Hutomo / Unsplash
Marché Tainan - Tainan - Taiwan © Eagan Hsu / Unsplash
Marché Tainan - Tainan - Taiwan © Eagan Hsu / Unsplash
Plats - New Taipei City - Taïwan © Charles Chen / Unsplash
Plats - New Taipei City - Taïwan © Charles Chen / Unsplash
Source d'eau chaude de Beitou - Taipei - Taïwan © H-AB Photography / Adobe Stock
Source d'eau chaude de Beitou - Taipei - Taïwan © H-AB Photography / Adobe Stock
Taipei - Taiwan © Andrez Haimerl / Unsplash
Taipei - Taiwan © Andrez Haimerl / Unsplash

Itinerary

100% customisable for you

Night spent on the plane, arrival the next day.

Upon arrival, private transfer to your hotel in the lively pedestrian area of West Taipei, an ideal starting point for exploring the trendy Ximending district. Your room is available straight away. You settle in here for three nights. Refined and elegant, it is decorated with original works of art inspired by the region’s rich film and musical heritage. 
Scheduled - Taipei like a local. This walk with an expatriate lets you discover Taipei through the eyes of one of its residents. Explore the city through its trendy spots, hidden districts, markets and street food stalls. Blend into the crowd or slip away from it, all while having a conversation about daily life in Taiwan. An authentic, unpretentious encounter where nothing is planned in advance and the walk unfolds according to each person’s preferences. It’s also a great opportunity to pick up tips for the rest of your trip.

Taipei is an ultra-modern metropolis that grew rapidly with Chinese immigration. It became the capital of Taiwan Province in 1887, under the Qing dynasty. But today, Taipei is forging its own path and cultivating a decidedly avant-garde identity, so much so that it confidently rivals its prestigious international counterparts. The city’s vibrant energy, concentrated in the pedestrian area of Ximending, recalls Shibuya in Tokyo or Times Square in New York: trendy shops, eclectic street food stalls and numerous tea houses, especially popular with the young Taiwanese. But far from being limited to this image, it proudly celebrates its heritage from different eras and cultures through its Buddhist and Confucian temples, craft shops and small traditional restaurants. Taipei can be experienced from many different angles.
À la carte - -Discovering Datun Volcano.

Already planned - The tea ceremony at Gin's. The tea tradition in China has been passed down through generations since ancient times. Often accompanied by a ceremony, Gong Fu Cha - literally “preparing tea with skill and discipline” - is a subtle art that reveals all the aromas of the plant. With Gin, your Taiwanese guide, embark on a sensory journey as you taste three artisanal teas. Discover the terroirs, varieties, and techniques, for an immersive experience where tradition meets the pleasures of the senses.
Also scheduled - Night market and Taiwanese street food. Embark on a new adventure with Gin through the bustling aisles of a night market. Here, the stalls have been run by the same families for generations. Let yourself be guided by her expert knowledge as you sample some iconic local street food - perfect starters before dining at a traditional restaurant nearby.

Private transfer to the station, then train to Tainan, where another private transfer takes you to your accommodation in the heart of the old town. You will stay there for two nights, in a narrow side street just a few steps from Fort Provintia. This minsu, a traditional inn, was fully renovated by interior designer Jimmy Pan. He redesigned and renovated this once dilapidated old Japanese house, infusing every corner with a touch of his boundless imagination. Your room blends retro charm with contemporary touches - white walls, soft lighting, wooden furniture, and hints of modern art
. Scheduled - Explore Tainan on foot with a guide. The island’s former capital has retained from its bygone status a rich cultural and architectural heritage: the Anping district with its Dutch fort; the remarkable Tree House, a former warehouse that, over the years, has been completely enveloped by sprawling banyan trees with endless roots; the famous Confucius Temple, built in the 17th century - the oldest in Taiwan. It also enjoys the enviable reputation of being the gastronomic capital of Taiwan. Shennong Street and its surrounding alleys, brimming with street food stalls and shops, are a testament to this. Follow in your guide’s footsteps as they reveal the hidden side of this fascinating city.
Also  included - Dinner featuring Taiwanese specialities. Enjoy a traditional seven-course dinner in an old house in the historic centre of Tainan. A chance to sample Taiwanese delicacies and fully immerse yourself in the local culture and traditions.

Scheduled: Visit the Fo Guang Shan Buddhist temple and the Meinong artisans’ village..  An hour’s drive from Tainan, in the suburbs of the large city of Kaohsiung, lies the largest Buddhist monastery in Taiwan. This impressive site is home to carefully maintained gardens, majestic pagodas and a fascinating museum filled with ancient relics. The highlight of the visit is the Fo Guang Shan Great Buddha, a 108-metre-tall bronze statue that ranks among the largest in the world. Next, head to the village of Meinong - a stronghold of Hakka traditions, famous for its temples with curved roofs and traditional houses.

Private transfer to the station, followed by the return train journey to Taipei. Two-night stay in your final accommodation, in the heart of the financial district, opposite the Taipei Dome. Your room offers a breathtaking view of Taipei 101. The style is classic, but the comfort meets modern standards.

The gigantic Taipei 101 tower rises to 509 metres (1,670 feet) and is inevitably awe-inspiring. Step into the world’s fastest lift, marvel at the 660-tonne golden sphere that stabilises the building between the 87th and 91st floors, and be captivated by its symbolic architectural details. Beyond the futuristic heights, it’s moving to glimpse the few charming Japanese wooden houses still scattered throughout the city. The Chiang Kai-shek Mausoleum is almost a moral obligation. To the north of the city, the National Palace Museum stands the largest museum of traditional Chinese arts and crafts. Much of the former collection from Beijing’s Forbidden City is displayed here, with calligraphy and paintings rotated quarterly. This remarkable museum alone makes the journey worthwhile. Along with that, you’ll find night markets, trendy cafes, countless restaurants, parks, theatres, galleries, tea rooms and dumplings.
À la carte - Bike ride from Guandu to Tamsui.

Scheduled - Relaxing in the Beitou thermal springs..  Before catching your flight, treat yourself to a final invigorating break at the Beitou hot springs, naturally warmed by underground volcanic activity. A private transfer takes you to this former private residence, set on a hillside, which once belonged to a close associate of Chiang Kai-shek.
Transfer to the airport, then a direct international return flight. Night on board, arrival the next day.

À la carte

This suggested itinerary can be customisable down to the smallest detail, including duration, stops and content. An à la carte menu of experiences is also available to create a journey that reflects who you are.

Datun volcano

This day of exploration takes you north of Taipei, to Yangmingshan National Park, known for the Datun volcano. It's the ideal opportunity to explore the sulphur spring areas, where dramatic fumes rise, and to relax in the naturally warm hot springs A lunch awaits you in a historic family home dating back to 1876, followed by a visit to Tianyuan Pagoda. The return journey follows the beautiful north coast, with a final stop by the sea.
Optional

By bike from Guandu to Tamsui

As part of a government initiative, the island has developed a network of 250 km of bike paths around Taipei (and 4,000 km [2,485 miles] across the entire island). You head towards Guandu, 10 km from the capital, for a 1 hour and 30 minutes bike ride with a local guide, following the cycling paths and the river all the way to Tamsui. Along the way, you pass Guandu Temple, built at the top of Mount Ling, a protected mangrove ecosystem, and various Spanish, English, French and Japanese colonial landmarks. The tour ends with a one-hour walk through the alleys of Tamsui and on to Shalun Beach.
Optional extra

With a few extra days: Sun Moon Lake

From Tainan, in a one-hour train journey you reach Taichung. From there, a transfer takes you to your hotel on the shores of Sun Moon Lake, facing the majestic Xuanguang Temple. Perched on a hill, it offers one of the most spectacular views in the region. Designed by Australian architect Kerry Hill, its timeless minimalist style creates a sense of serenity and elegance. It's the ideal departure point for exploring the surrounding cultural sites like the imposing Wenwu Confucian temple, with architecture inspired by the palaces of northern China, or the Ci'en Pagoda, to name just two. The misty sunrise over the lake's calm waters is truly enchanting.  
Optional

Why visit Taiwan with Voyageurs du monde?

Every day, our travel specialists craft bespoke experiences shaped around each traveller's profile, desires and budget. These passionate experts design experiences delivered on the ground by a local network of Concierges and trusted contacts. These fully customisable, made-to-measure trips are complemented by a wide range of high-end services (lounges, 24/7 assistance, travel booklet, app, Wi-Fi, restaurant booking, etc.)

Let us create your trip

A few of the advantages of travelling with us to Taiwan

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Estimated budget

Price depends on departure city, season, accomodation types and selected activities

The estimated budget for this trip is $4,100 to $5,400 per person.

A fixed price is rarely applicable to a bespoke journey. The final cost depends on various factors, such as the level of service, travel dates, and booking lead times. The only definitive price will be the one provided in your personalized proposal.

The average price for this trip is $4,700 per person *
* Recommended period for this trip: mid-September to May.

Included in this suggestion

  • Direct international flight with a scheduled airline
  • Airport taxes and fuel surcharges
  • Carbon absorption contribution for your trip's CO2 emissions through reforestation projects (via our Philippe Romero Insolite Bâtisseur Foundation)

  • Business-class airport lounge
  • Private transfers as mentioned in the travel itinerary
  • Return train journey between Taipei and Tainan
  • Three nights in Taipei, in a double room with breakfast included
  • Two nights in Tainan, in a double room with breakfast included
  • Two nights in Taipei, in a double room with breakfast included
  • A tour of Taipei in the footsteps of a local, in private
  • Tea ceremony with a local guide, in private.
  • Private night market tour with a local guide.
  • Private walking tour of Tainan with a guide
  • A seven-course Taiwanese speciality dinner (drinks not included) at a restaurant in Tainan.
  • A visit to the Fo Guan Shan Buddhist temple and the Meinong artisan village, with a private driver-guide.
  • Access to the Beitou thermal springs
  • Our on-site Concierge service
  • Wi-Fi access during your trip: an international mini router or eSIM allowing you to connect your various devices (phones, tablets, computers)
  • A travel booklet with useful information (your day-by-day itinerary, hotel contact details, a personalized selection of our recommendations, etc.)
  • Our recommendations and reservations at selected restaurants
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