D: Taiwan is a treasure trove of vibrant culture, mouthwatering street food, and breathtaking landscapesโall packed into a compact island! If you’re planning a short but epic 3-night, 4-day trip focusing on Taipei and its surroundings, this guide will help you conquer the best spots efficiently. Letโs dive in! ๐
Day 1: Taipei City Highlights ๐๏ธ
Morning:
- Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall ๐น๐ผ
Start your day with this iconic landmark. The grand blue-and-white structure and hourly guard-changing ceremony (every hour from 9 AM) are must-sees! - Yongkang Street ๐
Head here for a legendary breakfast: try Xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) at Din Tai Fung or savory scallion pancakes at Tian Jin Flaky Scallion Pancake.
Afternoon:
- Taipei 101 + Observatory ๐๏ธ
Zoom up to the 89th floor for panoramic city views. Pro tip: Visit on a clear day for the best visibility! - Elephant Mountain Hike ๐ถโโ๏ธ
A 20-minute climb rewards you with the best sunset views of Taipei 101. Donโt forget your camera! ๐ธ
Night:
- Raohe Night Market ๐
Dive into Taiwanese street food: pepper buns, stinky tofu, and bubble tea! End the night with a foot massage at a nearby parlor.
Day 2: Day Trip to Jiufen & Shifen ๐ฎ
Morning:
- Shifen Old Street + Waterfall ๐
Release a sky lantern (write your wishes first!) and hike to the stunning Shifen Waterfall (30 mins from the station).
Afternoon:
- Jiufen Old Street ๐ก
Wander the narrow alleys lined with tea houses and snack stalls. Must-tries: taro balls, peanut ice cream rolls, and A-Mei Tea House (inspired by Spirited Away!).
Evening:
- Keelung Night Market ๐ฆ
On your way back, stop for seafood feasts like crab thick soup and tempura.
Day 3: Nature Escape to Yangmingshan & Beitou ๐ฟ
Morning:
- Yangmingshan National Park โฐ๏ธ
Hike to Xiaoyoukeng (sulfur vents!) or Qingtiangang Grassland for volcanic landscapes. Spring? Donโt miss the cherry blossoms! ๐ธ
Afternoon:
- Beitou Hot Springs โจ๏ธ
Soak in geothermal waters at a public spa (like Beitou Public Hot Spring) or a private resort. Pair with a visit to the Thermal Valley (a turquoise sulfuric pond).
Night:
- Tamsui Fishermanโs Wharf ๐
Stroll along the waterfront, snack on iron eggs and fish crackers, and catch the famous Loverโs Bridge at sunset.
Day 4: Final Taipei Gems + Departure โ๏ธ
Morning:
- National Palace Museum ๐๏ธ
See ancient Chinese artifacts like the Jadeite Cabbageโa carved veggie masterpiece! - Ximending Shopping District ๐๏ธ
Grab last-minute souvenirs (pineapple cakes, beauty products) and quirky street food (like giant fried chicken cutlets).
Afternoon:
- Flight prep ๏ฟฝ
Head to Taoyuan Airport via MRT (45 mins from Taipei Main Station).
Pro Tips for Your Trip!
โ๏ธ Transport: Get an EasyCard for MRT/buses. For day trips, trains/buses are cheap (~$5 USD to Jiufen).
โ๏ธ Weather: Pack layersโTaipei can be humid or chilly (especially in mountains).
โ๏ธ Cash: Night markets and small shops prefer cash over cards.
Why This Itinerary Rocks?
โ
Balances city thrills + nature escapes.
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Maximizes time without feeling rushed.
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Covers iconic eats, culture, and Instagram spots!
Ready to fall in love with Taiwan? Book those flights and prepare for an unforgettable adventure! ๐โ๏ธ
Got questions? Drop them below! ๐๐