Around Formosa: Taiwan’s Island Gems in 7 Days

Upon arrival at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), you will be met by your local representative and transferred to your hotel in Taipei.

Check in and enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.

Evening (optional): Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere of a Taipei Night Market (e.g., Shilin Night Market) for delicious street food and local delights.

Overnight stay in Taipei.

After breakfast, check out of your Taipei hotel.

Depart for Sun Moon Lake (approx. 3.5 - 4 hours drive), Taiwan's largest natural lake and a designated national scenic area.

Upon arrival, embark on a scenic boat tour on the lake, visiting key attractions like Lalu Island, Xuanguang Temple, and Ita Thao Village, where you can learn about the Thao aboriginal culture.

Check into your hotel near Sun Moon Lake.

Enjoy the tranquil evening views of the lake.

Overnight stay at Sun Moon Lake.

After breakfast, check out of your Sun Moon Lake hotel.

Drive to Fo Guang Shan Monastery (approx. 1.5 - 2 hours drive), one of the largest Buddhist monasteries and a major centre for Humanistic Buddhism in Taiwan. Explore the impressive Buddha Memorial Centre, the magnificent Great Buddha, and the various halls and pagodas.

Continue your journey to Kaohsiung (approx. 1 hour drive from Fo Guang Shan), Taiwan's major port city in the south.

Upon arrival in Kaohsiung, visit highlights such as Lotus Pond, famous for its Spring and Autumn Pavilions and Dragon and Tiger Pagodas.

Check into your hotel in Kaohsiung.

Evening (optional): Explore the vibrant Liuhe Night Market for a taste of Kaohsiung's local street food.

Overnight stay in Kaohsiung.

After breakfast, check out of your Kaohsiung hotel.

Drive south to Kenting National Park (approx. 2 - 2.5 hours drive), Taiwan's tropical beach paradise.

Explore the scenic beauty of Kenting, including Eluanbi Lighthouse (the southernmost tip of Taiwan), the unique rock formations of Longpan Park, and the beautiful beaches. Enjoy some leisure time on the beach.

Continue your journey along the stunning Southern Cross-Island Highway or Coastal Highway to Taitung (approx. 2.5 - 3 hours drive from Kenting), a city on Taiwan's scenic east coast known for its indigenous culture and natural landscapes.

Check into your hotel in Taitung.

Overnight stay in Taitung.

After breakfast, check out of your Taitung hotel.

Embark on a picturesque drive along the East Coast National Scenic Area (approx. 3 - 3.5 hours drive to Hualien), offering dramatic coastal views, unique rock formations, and charming fishing villages. Stop at scenic viewpoints like Sanxiantai (Three Immortals Island) and Jialulan Recreation Area.

Arrive in Hualien, the gateway to Taroko Gorge.

Check into your hotel in Hualien.

Evening (optional): Explore Dongdamen Night Market in Hualien for a wide array of food and entertainment.

Overnight stay in Hualien.

After breakfast, check out of your Hualien hotel.

Today, explore the magnificent Taroko Gorge National Park, one of Taiwan's most spectacular natural wonders (Taroko Gorge is approx. 30-40 mins drive from Hualien).

Visit key sites within the gorge, such as the Shakadang Trail (conditions permitting), Swallow Grotto, Tunnel of Nine Turns (conditions permitting), and the Eternal Spring Shrine, marvelling at the towering marble cliffs and the roaring Liwu River.

In the afternoon, proceed to Hualien Railway Station to board a scenic train back to Taipei (approx. 2.5 - 3 hours train ride).

Upon arrival at Taipei Main Station, you will be transferred to your hotel.

Overnight stay in Taipei.

After breakfast, enjoy some free time for last-minute souvenir shopping or relaxation, depending on your flight schedule.

Check out of your hotel.

You will be transferred from your hotel to Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) for your onward flight.