Taiwan is an island that combines ancient traditions with a dynamic, modern lifestyle. Its history is fascinating: from the time of indigenous tribes, to the Japanese occupation (1895–1945), to the formation of the Republic of China in 1949. Today, Taiwan is known for its democratic government, its technological leadership (see TSMC, the microelectronics giant), and its rich cultural heritage. Traveling to Taiwan offers the opportunity to experience a country that respects the past, but looks clearly to the future.

1. Currency and Money

The official currency of Taiwan is the New Taiwan Dollar (NT$) with an exchange rate of around 0.028 euros. Cash is still very important, especially in small restaurants, markets and rural areas. You can exchange money at banks, at the airport or at authorized exchange offices (prefer the latter for a better exchange rate). Most major cities accept international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard), but small businesses often only accept cash. ATMs are available almost everywhere and you can withdraw money with foreign cards, just make sure your card supports international transactions.

2. How to Stay Connected

The internet connection in Taiwan is excellent. You can buy eSIMs before you travel through apps like Revolut eSIM, Airalo or Nomad, so you have data from the moment you land. If you prefer a physical SIM, you can buy SIM cards at the airport (Taipei Taoyuan or Kaohsiung), from providers such as Chunghwa Telecom, FarEasTone and Taiwan Mobile. The packages are affordable, offering unlimited data for a few days or even a month. Additionally, Taiwan offers free public Wi-Fi hotspots in many cities, but your own connection is much more reliable.

3. How to Get Around in the Big Cities

Public transport is among the best in the world, clean, safe and efficient. The MRT (metro) operates in Taipei and Kaohsiung, while other cities have extensive bus networks. Get an EasyCard (also known as Yoyo Card), which you can top up and use on the metro, buses and even some convenience stores. The price per trip is very low and there is English signage everywhere. You can buy and top up the EasyCard at EZfly kiosks, MRT stations or convenience stores, but only with cash. Each card costs TWD 100 and is non-refundable, so if you’re only in Taiwan for a short time, it might not be worth getting one.  Also, note that each person needs their own card because you must tap the card on the reader at both the beginning and end of a trip to calculate the correct fare. You can also buy single metro tickets in Taipei. These are navy blue, plastic tokens that can be purchased from vending machines or the information counters at any metro station. You can pay for them with cash at the vending machines, or by card at the information counter. As for the buses, you can buy a single bus tickets in Taipei, you have to pay the exact fare in cash directly to the driver, but buses do not provide change, so you must have the correct amount ready. Taxis are also available, reliable and affordable, and you can also use apps like Uber or 55688 Taxi.

A very popular means of transportation is cycling. YouBike / Ubike started as the Taipei Bike Sharing System, but has gradually spread across the country, replacing other local ones. With over 5,000 Youbike stations and 600 million total rentals, renting a YouBike is a must-do experience in Taiwan. You can rent a YouBike for a full hour for a similar price to a short MRT ride. In short, to rent a YouBike, you will need to: 1. Download the YouBike 2.0 app 2. Register your EasyCard in the app using a Taiwanese phone number (SIM card required) or your credit card and email if you don't have a local number 3. Scan the bike's QR code with your app to borrow bikes from any YouBike Station.

4. Getting from City to City

Taiwan is ideal for exploring by train. The Taiwan High Speed ​​Rail (HSR) connects Taipei to Kaohsiung in about 1.5 hours, offering convenience and punctuality. You can book tickets here. The regular railways (TRA) cover the entire island, ideal for more leisurely trips and small towns. You can book tickets online or at the station. There are also long-distance buses (Ubus, Kuo-Kuang) which are more economical. You can book tickets for the buses here. If you want complete freedom, you can rent a car, although driving in Taiwan requires an international driver’s license and some familiarity with local traffic rules.

5. Safety

Taiwan is considered one of the safest countries in Asia. Crime rates are very low, even in the big cities, and you can walk around comfortably even late at night. However, be careful with your personal belongings in busy markets or tourist areas. Transportation is safe and clean, and locals are very willing to help if you need anything.

6. Entry and Visa

For travelers holding EU passports, entry to Taiwan is straightforward: no visa is required for stays of up to 90 days. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Within three days prior to arriving in Taiwan, please complete an online immigration arrival card on the website of the National Immigration Agency here. Upon arrival, you simply pass through immigration control. If you plan to stay longer or work in Taiwan, a different type of visa is required, which must be obtained before traveling. You can check the list of countries participating in the Visa-Exempt Entry program here.

7. Culture and Civilization

Taiwan is a cultural mosaic that combines Chinese traditions, Japanese influences and indigenous elements. Religion plays an important role in daily life: you will find Buddhist and Taoist temples, but also a strong presence of traditional holidays such as the Lantern Festival. At the same time, the country is a world leader in technology, from semiconductor production to green energy innovations. This combination of traditional and high-tech makes Taiwan a unique destination.

8. Weather and When to Travel

Taiwan has a subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March–May) is ideal, with mild temperatures and cherry blossoms. Summer (June–August) is hot and humid, with occasional typhoons, ideal for beach lovers but not for those avoiding the heat. Autumn (September–November) is the best time for hiking, with cool weather and clear skies. Winter (December–February) is mild across most of the island, but you may find snow in mountainous areas like Hehuanshan.

9. Food and Drink Culture

Taiwan is a foodie’s paradise. Night markets, such as Shilin Night Market in Taipei, are full of street food: stinky tofu, xiaolongbao (steamed dumplings), bubble tea and mango sweets. The cuisine is influenced by mainland China, Japan and local gastronomy. Drinks include craft beers, traditional Oolong teas, and fresh juices. Food is generally very affordable, and there are plenty of vegetarian or vegan options, especially in areas with Buddhist temples.

10. Power and Adapters

Taiwan uses 110V power with type A and B plugs (the same as those in the US). European travelers will need an adapter to charge their devices. If your devices do not support dual voltage (110–240V), you may need a voltage converter, although most modern electronic devices (laptops, mobile phones) are compatible. Adapters are readily available at convenience stores, but it is a good idea to have one with you.

11. Essential Items to Bring

Taiwan is known for its frequent and unpredictable weather, especially during the rainy season. A light waterproof jacket and a collapsible umbrella are essential for sudden storms. Wear comfortable shoes, as you will be walking a lot in the markets and sightseeing. A sunscreen, hat and power bank will come in handy. Don’t forget your power adapter (type A/B).

12. In Case of Emergency

In emergencies, the general emergency number is 110 for the police and 119 for ambulance or fire department. The Embassy of Greece is located in Taipei: Address: 9F, No. 205, Dunhua N. Road, Songshan District, Taipei Tel.: +886 2 2713 8004

It is a good idea to have these numbers saved on your mobile phone before your trip.

13. Getting to and from Taipei Airports

The main airport is Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). The fastest option is the Taoyuan Airport MRT, which takes you to the center of Taipei (Taipei Main Station) in 35–50 minutes depending on which train you take, the express or the commuter (cost about NT$160). Both trains depart from the same airport station, every second train is an express. The first train from the airport is at 5:50 and the last train is at 23:35. You buy tickets from the automated machines at the entrance of each station. From there, you will transfer to the Taipei City MRT to head to your final destination. There are also buses, taxis (although they only accept cash) and ride-hailing services like Uber. In case your flight arrives late at night, private cars are another option, you can book them in advance through Klook.

Songshan Airport (TSA) is more central and mainly serves domestic flights, from there you can take the Taipei City MRT or taxi directly.

14. Navigation Apps and Language

Google Maps works very well in Taiwan, especially for metro and bus routes. The Taiwan Railways app is great for booking trains, while Uber and 55688 Taxi are useful for car trips. Most Taiwanese speak little English, especially the younger ones, but they are friendly and willing to help. Learning a few basic phrases in Mandarin (e.g. “xièxiè” – thank you) is highly appreciated.

Taiwan is a destination that will win you over with the warmth of its people, delicious flavors, scenic routes and technological precision. With the right preparation, from the EasyCard to the eSIM and adapter, you can enjoy your trip without stress. Whether you have only four days or eight, you will find a balance between culture, nature, city and food.

8-Day Itinerary: Taipei – Taichung – Sun Moon Lake – Tainan – Kaohsiung

Day 1 – Arrival in Taipei & First Taste of the City

• Check-in at your hotel

• Visit Taipei 101 & hike Elephant Mountain for sunset views

• Evening: Explore Ximending District – street food & shopping

Day 2 – History & Culture

• Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall & Lungshan Temple

• Explore the National Palace Museum (cultural heritage)

• Evening: Shilin Night Market – the most famous night market in Taipei

Day 3 – Day Trip to Jiufen & Shifen

• Discover Jiufen Old Street & traditional teahouses

• Visit Shifen Waterfall & release sky lanterns

• Return to Taipei for a relaxing dinner

Day 4 – Taipei → Taichung (HSR ~1 hour)

• Visit Rainbow Village & National Taichung Theater

• Stop at Miyahara – for ice cream & architecture

• Dinner at Fengjia Night Market

Day 5 – Sun Moon Lake

• Morning transfer by bus or taxi to the lake

• Explore by bike or boat

• Return to Taichung for overnight stay

Day 6 – Taichung → Tainan

• Visit Chihkan Tower & Fort Provintia

• Explore Guohua Street – temples & street food

• Dinner at a traditional Tainan night market

Day 7 – Tainan → Kaohsiung

• Travel by train (TRA) ~1 hour

• Visit Lotus Pond & Dragon & Tiger Pagodas

• Stroll along the Love River

• Dinner at Liuhe Night Market

Day 8 – Kaohsiung & Departure

• Morning visit to Pier-2 Art Center

• Last-minute shopping at Shinkuchan Shopping District

• Depart from Kaohsiung Airport or return to Taipei via HSR

4-Day Itinerary: Taipei – Jiufen – Shifen

Day 1 – Arrival in Taipei & Panoramic Views

• Arrival and check-in at your hotel

• Visit Lungshan Temple

• Explore Taipei 101 (observatory & food court)

• Hike Elephant Mountain for sunset or take the Maokong Gondola up the hill

• Evening: Stroll around Ximending Walking District & Ximen Night Market

Day 2 – Culture & History

• Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall & 228 Peace Memorial Park

• Explore the National Palace Museum (Chinese imperial artifacts)

• Walk along Dihua Street & Dadaocheng Wharf Container Market

• Evening: Shilin Night Market for street food favorites (xiaolongbao, bubble tea)

Day 3 – Day Trip to Yehliu, Jiufen & Shifen

• Visit Yehliu Geopark

• Continue to Jiufen (traditional teahouses, red lantern alleys)

• See Shifen Waterfall & release sky lanterns into the air

• Return to Taipei

• Evening: Visit Raohe Night Market (don’t miss the pepper buns!)

Day 4 – Easy Morning & Departure

• Morning walk through Tamsui Old Street

• Take the ferry to Fisherman’s Wharf

• Last-minute shopping around Zhongxiao Dunhua (trendy boutiques)

• Depart for the airport

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