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Taiwan Travel: Planning Your Trip
Visa Requirements: Who Needs a Visa to Visit Taiwan?
Visa-Exempt Entry:
Foreign nationals from various countries can enjoy visa-exempt entry to Taiwan with different durations of stay. Nationals of countries like the United States, Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, and many European nations can stay for up to 90 days. Nationals of countries including Malaysia and Singapore can stay for up to 30 days. It’s important to note that certain restrictions apply to travellers from specific countries or with specific passport details. Requirements for visa-exempt entry for Taiwan travel include a passport with at least six months of validity, a confirmed return ticket, and proof of accommodation. The duration of stay is not extendable, except in exceptional circumstances. Please make sure to click on Visa-Exempt Entry for verification and additional requirements.
Visa Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide for Your Taiwan Travel
Travellers from foreign nations who are not eligible for Visa-Exempt Entry must apply for Visitor Visa for Tourism Purpose.
Documents needed:
1. Completed & signed application form
2. Two passport-size photos in color within 6 months (45 mm by 35 mm)
3. Passport valid for 6 months with blank pages (original & photocopy)
4. Evidence of funds (bank statement)
5. Travel Itinerary
6. Return Ticket (Ticket、electronic ticket or proof of a travel agency)
7. Other additional documents may be required during processing
Plane Ticket Platforms Comparison: Cheap Flights for Your Taiwan Travel
| KAYAK | Skyscanner | Expedia | Google Flight | |
| Features | Stand out with KAYAK’s variety of filters for efficient Taiwan travel comparison. | Promote sustainable Taiwan travel by using Skyscanner to filter flights based on lower CO₂ emissions. | Efficiently plan your Taiwan travel with Expedia’s convenient arrival and departure time filters. | Explore flight options in Taiwan with Google Flight’s interactive map feature, comparing fares and destinations visually. |
Seasonal Highlights: What to Expect in Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter for Taiwan Travel
Taiwan offers a diverse range of experiences that transform with the changing seasons. From vibrant cherry blossoms in spring to soothing hot springs in winter, each season brings its own unique charm to Taiwan.
| Season | Highlights | Spots |
| Spring | Experience the blooming of cherry blossoms as parks and gardens across the country transform into captivating shades of pink and white, offering a mesmerizing spectacle. | –Yangmingshan National Park in Taipei –Alishan in Chiayi County |
| Summer | Indulge in a plethora of outdoor activities and explore the natural beauty of Taiwan’s stunning coastal areas. | –Kenting National Park, with its crystal-clear waters, white sandy beaches, and thrilling water sports. –Penghu and Green Island, renowned for their scenic beauty and opportunities for water-based adventures. |
| Fall | Experience cooler temperatures and immerse yourself in breathtaking landscapes adorned with vibrant autumn colors. | –Taroko Gorge in Hualien, with its majestic canyons, towering marble cliffs, and enchanting hiking trails amidst the mesmerizing autumn foliage. –Sun Moon Lake, surrounded by a kaleidoscope of red, orange, and golden hues. |
| Winter | Indulge in the therapeutic benefits of Taiwan’s natural hot springs and enjoy challenging winter hiking experiences. | –Beitou hot spring in Taipei and Wulai in New Taipei City, renowned for their healing properties and serene surroundings. –Yushan, Taiwan’s highest peak, for a thrilling winter hiking adventure. |
Packing Essentials for Your Taiwan Travel: Must-Have Items for Travellers
Travel Documents and Cash: Ensure you have your passport, travel insurance, and any necessary visas. It’s strongly recommended to carry a mix of cash and credit cards, as while card payments are widely accepted, lots of venders only accept cash.
Suitable Clothing:
| Season | Months | Temperature | Weather | Suitable Clothing |
| Spring | March to May | 64~79°F(17~26°C) | Mild climate with occasional showers and high humidity in May | Lightweight and breathable clothing for spring and summer, along with rain gear |
| Summer | June to September | 82~97°F(27~36°C) | Common afternoon thunderstorms and occasional typhoons | Lightweight and breathable clothing for summer, along with rain gear |
| Fall | October to November | 68~83°F(20~28°C) | Dry and stable weather | Comfortable layers are suitable |
| Winter | December to February | 50~68°F(10~20°C) | Cold and humid in northern Taiwan, slightly warmer in southern Taiwan | Warm clothing, especially in the northern part of Taiwan |
Travel Adapter: Taiwan uses Type A and Type B electrical outlets with a voltage of 110V. If you’re traveling from a country with different plug types or voltage, be sure to pack a universal travel adapter.
Sunscreen: Taiwan is located in a subtropical region, and UV levels can be relatively high, especially during the summer months. It’s advisable to pack sunscreen with a high SPF and sunglass to protect your skin.
Comfortable Walking Shoes: Exploring Taiwan often involves a fair amount of walking, be sure to pack a pair of comfortable walking shoes.
Managing Your Finances in Taiwan: Currency Exchange Methods for Travellers
Here are some options for the currency exchange methods:
Go to your local bank: Before your trip, you can visit your local bank in your home country and inquire about currency exchange services if you prefer to have local currency in hand before your trip.
Exchange at the airport: Another option is to exchange your currency at the airport either in your home country or upon arrival in Taiwan. It is advisable to compare the exchange rates and fees at different counters to ensure you get the best deal.
Department Stores in Taiwan: Some department stores such as Taipei 101 and Shin Kong Mitsukoshi offer currency exchange services. However, it’s important to note that the options for currency conversion may be more limited, both in terms of the amount you can exchange and the range of currencies accepted.
Staying Connected During Your Taiwan Travel: WiFi and Internet Services for Travellers
You can book the portable wifi device or SIM card/ eSIM online and pickup at the airport depending on your destination in Taiwan.
| Portable Wifi Rental Service | SIM Card/ eSIM | |
| Price | Around $4 USD per day | Around $10~16 USD for 10 days |
| Pros | Flexibility: Ideal for areas with limited or unreliable Wi-Fi coverage. Sharing: Share your internet connection with friends and family. | Cost-Effective: Cheaper option compared to wifi devices. |
| Cons | Inconvenience: Need to ensure it is charged and carry it at all times. | Sharing: Sharing the network between devices may affect internet speed. |
| Ways to Obtain | Purchase from local telecommunications stores, at the airport, or through online platforms. | Make an online reservation or obtain it at the airport. |
| Return | Return the device to the designated location after the rental period is completed. | Once it expires, you can simply dispose of it. |
Taiwan Travel: Navigating Transportation in Taiwan
| Taiwan Rental Car | Taiwan MRT (Subway) | Taiwan Bus | Taiwan High Speed Railway | Taiwan Train | |
| Features | – High level of freedom and convenience. – Access to suburban attractions is easily accessible. |
– Great precision and adheres to scheduled timetables. – Known for cleanliness and hygiene standards due to no-food policy. |
– Includes intercity routes and covers rural areas not served by trains or the MRT. – Budget-friendly. |
– Most efficient mode of transportation connecting major cities on the western side of the island. – Offers spacious and well-appointed seating arrangements. |
– Comfortable and scenic mode of transportation, allowing travellers to enjoy Taiwan’s picturesque landscapes. |
| Coverage Area | Every destination in Taiwan | Five major cities | Bus stations throughout Taiwan, with frequency and density varying by area. | One stop in each city and county, excluding Eastern Taiwan and Outlying Islands. | 19 routes covering the main island of Taiwan. |
| Price | 5-seater from $33 USD per day ($7 per person) | $5.8 USD (1-day Transportation Pass) | $5.8 USD (1-day Transportation Pass) | Depends on departing and arriving stations. View Taiwan Travel High Speed Railway Rates | $58 USD (3-day pass) ($19 USD per day) |
| Target Groups | Ideal for budget-conscious independent travellers who seek full control over their itinerary and explore remote or rural areas. Also suitable for families or groups seeking comfort and convenience. | Convenient for travellers who want to navigate within the city and avoid traffic congestion. | Suitable for budget-conscious individuals, locals, and adventurous explorers looking to reach destinations beyond major cities. | Recommended for travellers seeking efficient and time-saving transportation between major cities like Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung. | Ideal for travellers exploring smaller towns and coastal areas. |
| Important Notes | Ensure to prepare documents needed for renting a car in Taiwan. Click here for more information. | Visit the official website of the Metro for information about the price of the travel pass. | It’s advisable to have some knowledge of Chinese characters or use translation apps to identify bus routes and stops. | Book tickets in advance, especially during peak travel seasons, as HSR can get crowded. Purchase tickets at HSR stations, online, or through mobile apps. | Purchase train tickets at stations or online. Reserve seats for long-distance trips, especially during peak seasons. Check schedules as train frequency varies based on route and destination. |