Taiwan
East Asia · Asia
- Capital
- Taipei
- Currency
- New Taiwan Dollar (TWD NT$)
- Language
- Mandarin Chinese, Taiwanese Hokkien
- Timezone
- UTC+8
- Safety rating
- 8.8/10
- Best time to visit
- October to April for comfortable weather in Taipei. Spring and autumn for hiking in Taroko Gorge. October is perfect — typhoon season ending, cool nights, and fewer tourists.
Overview
Taiwan is Asia's friendliest and most underrated destination — a stunning island combining Chinese cultural heritage, Japanese colonial architecture, tropical coastlines, high mountain hiking, and the world's best night markets. Taipei's food scene (especially xiao long bao dumplings from Din Tai Fung) is legendary. The island's MRT systems are among Asia's most efficient.
Visa requirements
Citizens of the USA, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and 60+ other countries can enter visa-free for 90 days. Most others can apply for an e-Visa or visa on arrival.
Safety information
Exceptionally safe destination — consistently ranked among Asia's safest. Violent crime against tourists is extremely rare. Traffic on scooters can be intense but organised. Typhoon season (July–October) brings occasional disruptions.
Travel tips
The EasyCard works on all MRT, buses, and many convenience stores and taxis — essential purchase at the airport. Night markets (Shilin, Raohe, Fengjia) are the social heartbeat of Taiwan. The train around the island is scenic and efficient. Driving a scooter is possible with an international licence.