As an English teacher based in South Korea, 7 days in Taiwan makes for an easy and affordable getaway. This small island nation boasts a wonderfully eclectic atmosphere that mixes the traditional with the modern and serves up some of the most delectable foods in Asia.
So if you’re an avid hiker looking for a vacation that mixes city life and foodie heaven with spectacular nature – plus you don’t have much time to spare – check out my guide for how to spend 7 days in Taiwan.
7 Days in Taiwan for Nature Lovers
Day 1: Taipei – See the historical sites of Taipei
The history and cultural traditions of Taiwan are fascinating! Spend the day exploring some of the best landmarks in the city.
Mengjia Longshan Temple.
One of the most well-known temples in the city, Mengjia Longshan Temple is a prime example of traditional Buddhist temples. Stop by for a visit to experience one of the oldest in the country.
2.28 Memorial Peace Park.
Come enjoy some greenery in the otherwise concrete jungle of Taipei and marvel at the colorful pagoda and structures in the park. Learn the history behind the February 28th Incident of 1947 for which the park is named while you’re there.
Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.
One of the most iconic sites in Taipei, The Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall was erected in honor of the former president of China. Come see the changing of the guards on the hour. Entrance cost is free.
Shilin Night Market.
The largest and most popular night market in the city, Shilin Night Market is a tourist favorite. Stop by to enjoy the various shops selling street foods, clothing, and souvenirs.
Ximending neighborhood.
After a busy day exploring the city, visit Ximending pedestrian area for a bit of shopping and a nice refreshing cocktail. Behind the Ximen Red House Theater is the old red light district now home to hip and hopping cocktail bars. It’s a great place to grab a nightcap!
Day 2: Taipei – Treat yo’self
Food tour of the city.
One of the best things to do in Taipei is to enjoy the food! Be sure to make time to grab lunch at Yongkang Beef Noodles, famous for it’s savory and extremely tasty beef noodles. Be prepared to wait in line however, this place gets busy.Grab a bubble tea at 50 Lan (50嵐) for dessert after you enjoy your noodles!
Head and shampoo massage.
One of the best things to do on vacation is to treat yourself. Taiwanese salons offer the service of a shampoo and massage for a decent price. These aren’t just any shampoo/massage sessions though – if you go to the right ones, they will style your hair with the shampoo foam in many different shapes and designs. It’s a lot of fun!
Shop at Taipei 101.
Taipei 101 was once the world’s tallest building and boasts a beautiful design inspired by the shape of bamboo. Stop by to check out the beautiful shopping and dining experience it offers as well as venture to the top observation deck.
Elephant Mountain sunset hike.
A must-do hike while in Taipei, Elephant Mountain boasts killer views of the city skyline. Although a short hike, prepare for a 20 minute walk up steep stairs! The sunset is beautiful from the top.
Raohe Night Market.
Another popular night market, Raohe is a bit smaller than Shilin but still offers a vast variety of different street foods! The pork pepper buns are a must when visiting in Raohe. The stand is right at the entrance – you can’t miss it, there will be a long line of people waiting to enjoy them.
Day 3: Pingxi Crags + Taipei
Rise and shine early in the morning to take a day trip to hike the Pingxi Crags. The crags are very tall and steep rock formations that reach high into the sky. Climb the slightly scary stairs to enjoy a unique hiking experience and to get some stellar views of the surrounding lush landscape.
How to get to Pingxi Crags.
To get to the crags, you’ll need to take a train from Taipei Main Station to Ruifang Station and transfer to the Pingxi Line. Get off at Pingxi Station. Be sure to check the timetable ahead of time as the train runs there and back only once an hour.
Once at the station, you’ll walk out the back, down some stairs and over a bridge. Take a right and walk alongside the road for only about 2 minutes. You should see toilets, and some moss-covered stairs next to a very faded sign. This is the trail head! Begin the climb until you get to a wide paved intersection. Take a left. You should be able to see the crags from here. Walk into the woods and begin your exciting hike.
Pingxi Day Pass.
At Ruifang Station, you can actually purchase a day pass for the Pingxi Line that is good for the rest of the day. Be sure to hold on to your ticket for your return ride. The Pingxi Pass costs $80 NT / $2.70 USD. The Pingxi Line stops at many other popular tourist destinations. So if you have time and interest, you can also check out the Houtong Cat Village, Shifen, and more on the same line.
After your hike, arrive back in the early afternoon, shower and see anything else left on your Taipei list. For more to do in Taipei, check out my 15 Insta-worthy Things to do in Taipei guide!
Day 3 Alternative: Maokong Gondola + Taipei
I didn’t actually take the time to visit the Maokong Gondola myself, but I have heard wonderful things about it! A bit out of the city center, the gondola offers stunning views and is a great addition to your 7 days in Taiwan itinerary. Read more about it here!
Day 4: Day trip to Sandiaoling, Shifen + Jiufen
Take a day to embark on the Sandiaoling Waterfall hike before venturing off to see Shifen and magical Jiufen. Only an hour train ride from Taipei Main Station, these three destinations offer a glimpse into the quieter and natural side of Taiwan and make for one of the best Taipei day trips. For more information on a day trip to Sandiaoling, Shifen and Jiufen, check out my guide here.
Day 5 + 6: Taroko National Park
About a 2.5 hour train ride from Taipei, exploring Taroko National Park may be one the most famous and beautiful things to do in Taiwan. With numerous trails to choose from – all of which boast stunning nature views – you’ll be hard pressed to find a reason not to take the time to hike this gorgeous place yourself!
We decided to stay two full days in the area to see what we could with the weather we had, however you could fill a third day easily if you are an avid hiker and interested in the many mountain trails and river tracing adventures in the area.
The best hikes in Taroko National Park.
- Swallow Grotto/Yanzikou Trail (燕子口步道).
- Old Zhuilu Road.
- Shakadang Trail (砂卡噹步道)
- Golden Grotto
For more specific information about what to do, where to stay and tips for Taroko National Park, check out my guide here.
Day 7: Travel / Taipei
Travel the 2.5 hours back to Taipei and prepare to say farewell to a country you’ve undoubtedly come to love in the short 7 days in Taiwan that you had.BONUS TIP: At the airport, don’t forget to try all the free samples of the delicious pineapple cake – and maybe even buy a box or two.No trip to Taiwan is complete without my comprehensive Taiwan Travel Tips!
There you have it my friends! A week is not much time to spend in any new place, but if you only have 7 days in Taiwan, I hope my recommended guide offers you some wanderlust inspiration.
Did I miss anything major that you’d recommend? Share below!
I’ll be bookmarking this for my upcoming return to Taiwan!!! Great pictures 🙂
Ohh yay! Anything else I can help with, please let me know. Enjoy your trip!!