Best of Taiwan

Sitting off the south-east coast of China, the island nation of Taiwan –is one of the most densely populated places in the world. With the interior of the island being mountainous, the majority of its 23 million strong population lives in cities strung out along the flatter west coastal belt. Taiwan is therefore a land of contrasts: crowded cities with a plethora of restaurants, shops and entertainment options in one part, and lush forested mountains, sandy beaches and marble-walled gorges in the other. It may surprise some people to know that Taiwan has eight national parks protecting its wildlife-rich tropical forest.

Highlights:
♦ Sun Moon Lake – a gentle journey through the history, culture and scenery of this remarkable place
♦ Kenting – Taiwan’s first national park
♦ East Coast National Scenic Area - Taiwan's last unspoiled land
♦ Yilan - captivating blend of lush landscapes, vibrant hot springs, and rich cultural heritage, offering an idyllic escape where stunning mountains meet the serene Pacific coastline

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Itinerary:

Day 1. Saturday. Taipei
Upon arrival at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), you will be met and transferred to your hotel by private car (NO guide). The remainder of the day will be free. -/-/-

Day 2. Sunday. Taipei
After breakfast, we’ll embark on a classic Taipei day tour to explore the city’s iconic historical landmarks as well as modern attractions. During this tour, you’ll visit the world-famous National Palace Museum, home to the largest collection of ancient Chinese artifacts in the world, where you’ll be amazed by the stunning art pieces. You’ll also visit the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, an important monument that symbolizes a key period in Taiwan's history, and the Lungshan Temple, which represents the local religious practices. The tour will also include a stop at the renowned Taipei 101 skyscraper (excluding the observatory ticket), showcasing the city’s modern technology and globalization. And of course, there’s much more to discover—you’ll need to join us to find out! This guided tour will give you a deeper understanding of Taipei’s past, present, and future. With the help of your tour guide, you’ll gain insight into each attraction and experience the city from a unique perspective. B/-/-

Day 3. Monday. Taipei－Sun Moon Lake
On the first morning of your round-island tour in Taiwan, you will leave central Taipei and head towards the heart of the island, the Sun Moon Lake National Scenic Area. Sun Moon Lake, the island's largest freshwater lake, is split by Lalu Island. The eastern side of the lake resembles the sun, while the western side resembles a crescent moon, giving the lake its unique name. This beautiful area is also the ancestral home of the Thao people, one of Taiwan's indigenous groups. With its rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty, Sun Moon Lake is one of Taiwan’s top destinations. After lunch, your tour continues with a scenic bus ride around the lake, where you'll visit some of the most famous attractions in the area. Start by exploring Ita Thao, an indigenous village that offers a glimpse into the culture and lifestyle of the Thao people. Next, you'll be awed by the majestic Ci'en Pagoda, a significant Sun Moon Lake landmark built by the late President Chiang Kai-shek in honor of his mother. Your exploration of Sun Moon Lake continues with visits to two important temples. First, you’ll stop at Xuanzang Temple, a peaceful Buddhist temple dedicated to the renowned monk Xuanzang. Then, you'll visit Wenwu Temple, an impressive Taoist temple with three halls dedicated to the Martial God and the God of Literature. With insights from your tour guide, you’ll gain a deeper understanding of Sun Moon Lake’s history and cultural importance. For your first night on the Taiwan round-island tour, you’ll enjoy a comfortable stay in a 5-star hotel, either surrounded by the tranquility of Sun Moon Lake or in the lively center of Taichung. B/-/-

Day 4. Tuesday. Sun Moon Lake－Tainan－Kaohsiung
Start the second day of your 5-day Taiwan adventure with a delicious breakfast to fuel you for another exciting day of exploration. Afterward, board the bus and head to Tainan, Taiwan's oldest city, known for its wealth of historic buildings and deep historical significance. Your journey begins with a visit to Fort Zeelandia, built by the Dutch East India Company during their 38-year rule over western Taiwan. Although the original fort faced near destruction by the British in the 19th century, it was later rebuilt by the Japanese. Following your time at Fort Zeelandia, take a leisurely stroll along Anping Old Street. Located on the east side of the fort, this historic street, established by the Dutch over 300 years ago, holds the honor of being the first officially named street in Taiwan. Anping Old Street is not only rich in history but also famous for its local specialties, including tofu pudding, shrimp rolls, fish skin dishes, and beef soup. Be sure to sample some of these signature delights while soaking in the area’s historical charm. After lunch, your journey continues to the romantic harbor city of Kaohsiung, the largest city in Southern Taiwan. Upon arrival, you’ll visit the renowned Fo Guang Shan Monastery (FGS), a prominent Buddhist site founded in 1967 by Venerable Master Hsing Yun. The monastery is famous for its Great Buddha Land, home to a towering 36-meter-tall golden statue of Buddha Amitabha, the tallest standing Buddha in Southeast Asia, surrounded by 480 smaller statues. While at the monastery, you'll have the opportunity to speak with a knowledgeable monk who will share insights into Buddhist teachings and the religion’s development in Taiwan, where Buddhism is the most widely practiced faith. In the evening, you’ll enjoy a comfortable stay in a 5-star hotel, conveniently located near department stores, convenience stores, and drugstores. This is a great chance to pick up any additional supplies you may need for the rest of your 5-day Taiwan tour. B/-/-

Day 5. Wednesday. Kaohsiung－Kenting－Taitung
After a filling breakfast, begin your journey heading south towards Taiwan's first national park, located near the southern border. Kenting National Park is famous for its stunning coastal geological formations, picturesque landscapes, and diverse marine life, all thanks to its unique combination of crustal shifts and tropical climate. The park is also a haven for surfers and divers. On the third day of your round-island tour, you'll visit several notable stops in Kenting. Begin with Maopitou, or "Cat's Nose," a rock formation that resembles a large cat crouching when seen from a distance. Next, you'll visit Chuanfan Rock, or "Sail Rock," which is another unique natural formation, often likened to the sail of a ship or even the profile of former U.S. President Richard Nixon. Then, head to the Eluanpi Lighthouse, a Qing Dynasty-era structure that was once considered one of the Eight Views of Taiwan during the Japanese colonial era. Finally, you'll explore Longpan Park, a coral limestone plateau that offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean and has been shaped over time by rainfall erosion. After your exploration of Kenting National Park, you’ll travel to Taitung via the picturesque South Link Highway, where you'll enjoy the ever-changing scenery along the way. In the evening, you'll stay in a tranquil hot spring resort in Zhiben, Taitung County. Zhiben is famous for its carbonate hot springs, known for promoting blood circulation and relieving fatigue—making it the perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate after a day of adventure.  B/-/-

Day 6. Thursday. Taitung －East Coast National Scenic Area－Hualien/ YILAN
After a restful night and a delicious breakfast, your 5-day Taiwan tour continues along the east coast, often referred to as the last unspoiled part of the island. The natural beauty here will constantly captivate you. Along the way, you'll visit some of the region's most striking scenic spots, including Xiaoyeliu, Sanxiantai, Shitiping, and Fanshuliao, each with its own unique geological features. Your first stop is Xiaoyehliu (also known as "Little Yehliu" or "Fugang Geopark"). This area is famous for its remarkable rock formations, similar to those found at Yehliu Geopark on the northern coast of Taiwan, giving it its name. Here, you can get up close to these unusual landforms, shaped by weathering and sea erosion over time. Next, you'll visit Sanxiantai ("The Terrace of the Three Immortals"), which consists of an offshore island and coral reefs. A cross-sea bridge connects the island to the mainland, making it a prominent feature of the East Coast National Scenic Area. Afterward, your adventure takes you to Shitiping ("Stone Steps"). This area is a well-developed sea erosion terrace with coastal promontories eroded by seawater over millions of years. The resulting features, including abrasion platforms, sea grooves, sea cliffs, and potholes, make Shitiping a natural outdoor geology classroom.

From Hualien to Yilan, you'll enjoy a comfortable one-way train ride. For the night, you’ll relax at a luxurious 5-star hot spring hotel in Jiaoxi, where you can unwind and rejuvenate. B/-/-

Day 7. Friday. YILAN / TAIPEI
After enjoying a hearty hotel breakfast, get ready for the final day of your five-day island tour. Your guide will take you to visit the King Car Kavalan Whisky Distillery and the National Center for Traditional Arts. Start your day with a visit to the renowned King Car Kavalan Whisky Distillery, famous worldwide for its exceptional whisky crafted from the pure water sources of the Central Mountain Range and the Xueshan Mountain Range. Immerse yourself in the rich aroma of whisky as you explore the distillery and discover the unique flavors developed in oak barrels.
Next, head to the National Center for Traditional Arts, a sprawling park showcasing a variety of traditional Taiwanese architecture. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to experience Taiwan’s cultural heritage through exhibitions, performances, and workshops. From puppet shows to pottery-making, there’s something for everyone.
Your unforgettable 5-day round-island tour concludes with a bus ride back to Taipei City, where you will be dropped off at your hotel or designated drop-off point. B/-/-

Day 8. Departure
Transfer to the airport and departure.

Visa: Citizens of most European countries and North America do not need a visa to enter Taiwan. Please, check the latest requirements regarding your country. 

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Price Includes:
7 nights in a double room at 3-star hotel in Taipei and 5-star hotels in the other cities
daily breakfast
air-conditioned coach
English speaking guide
entrance fees
transfer from/to the airport (no guide)
Tour insurance

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Not Included:
Flight tickets to/from Taipei
tips
personal expenses
drinks and meals not mentioned in the program
insurance
any item not mentioned in the above itinerary

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Additional Services:
Accommodation at 4**** or 5***** hotel in Taipei: on request

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Gallery

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