D: Planning a short but unforgettable trip to Taiwan? ๐โ๏ธ With just 3 days and 4 nights, you can explore vibrant cities, stunning nature, and delicious street foodโall without breaking the bank! Hereโs a smart, budget-friendly itinerary packed with must-visit spots and insider tips.
๐ Day 1: Taipei City Exploration
Morning: Historic & Cultural Gems
- Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall (Free entry) โ A grand landmark with hourly guard-changing ceremonies. โณ
- Ximending โ Taipeiโs trendy shopping district (great for cheap fashion & bubble tea!). ๐๏ธ๐น
Afternoon: Food & Scenic Views
- Lunch at Din Tai Fung (Original location!) โ Must-try: Xiao Long Bao (Soup Dumplings) ๐ฅ (~NT$300).
- Elephant Mountain Hike (Free) โ A short but rewarding climb for iconic Taipei 101 views! ๐๐ธ
Evening: Night Market Feast
- Raohe Night Market โ Try pepper buns (Hu Jiao Bing), stinky tofu, and bubble milk tea (~NT$200 for a full meal). ๐ข๐ง
๐ฐ Budget Tip: Use the Taipei Metro (MRT) with an EasyCard (NT$150 deposit + top-up) for cheap & easy transport!
๐ Day 2: Day Trip to Jiufen & Shifen
Morning: Jiufen โ A Slice of Old Taiwan
- Take a bus from Taipei Main Station (~NT$100 one way).
- Wander Jiufen Old Street โ Famous for tea houses, red lanterns, and taro balls (NT$50). ๐ฎ๐ก
- Visit Shengping Theater (Free) โ A nostalgic cinema from the 1900s. ๐ญ
Afternoon: Shifen Waterfall & Sky Lanterns
- Train to Shifen Station (~NT$50).
- Walk to Shifen Waterfall (NT$80 entry) โ Taiwanโs “Little Niagara”! ๐
- Release a sky lantern (~NT$200) โ Write your wishes & watch it fly! โจ
๐ฐ Budget Tip: Pack snacks & waterโfood in Jiufen can be pricier than Taipei!
๐ Day 3: Nature & Hot Springs in Beitou
Morning: Beitou Hot Springs
- Metro to Xinbeitou Station (EasyCard works!).
- Public Hot Springs (Millennium Hot Spring) โ Only NT$40 for a relaxing soak! โจ๏ธ
- Visit Beitou Library (Free) โ Eco-friendly & Instagram-worthy! ๐๐ฟ
Afternoon: Tamsui Sunset
- Take the MRT to Tamsui Station.
- Walk along Tamsui Old Street โ Try iron eggs & fish crackers (NT$50). ๐ฅ๐
- Watch the sunset at Fishermanโs Wharf (Free). ๐
Evening: Last-Minute Shopping
- Wufenpu Garment Wholesale District โ Cheap fashion finds (~NT$200/shirt). ๐
๐ฐ Budget Tip: Skip private hot springsโpublic ones are just as good for less!
๐ธ Total Estimated Budget (Per Person)
โ๏ธ Accommodation (Hostels/Guesthouses): ~NT$800/night ร 3 = NT$2,400
โ๏ธ Food (Street eats & local meals): ~NT$500/day ร 3 = NT$1,500
โ๏ธ Transport (MRT, buses, trains): ~NT$500 total
โ๏ธ Attractions/Activities: ~NT$600
๐ก TOTAL: ~NT$5,000 (โ $160 USD)
๐ Packing Tips for Taiwan
- Comfy walking shoes (Youโll walk a LOT!) ๐
- Light jacket (Evenings can be chilly). ๐งฅ
- Portable umbrella (Taipei rains unexpectedly!). โ
- Reusable water bottle (Tap water is safe after boiling). ๐ง
Final Thoughts
Taiwan is affordable, safe, and packed with adventuresโperfect for a short getaway! ๐ With this itinerary, youโll experience culture, nature, and foodie delights without overspending.
Have you been to Taiwan? Share your favorite spots below! ๐๐
โ๏ธ Ready to book? Check Skyscanner for cheap flights! #TaiwanTravel #BudgetTrip #TravelTips