Classic Taiwan

Begin your journey in Taiwan at the capital city of Taipei. You will be met at the airport and privately transferred to your hotel to check in and freshen up. In the afternoon, explore Ximending, a lively hip entertainment and commercial pedestrian zone. Hip since the Japanese colonial era, this recreation district offers boutiques, brand name shops, an adjoining theatre district, bars, a graffiti lane, and casual eateries. Stop at the Red House, one of the oldest buildings in the area at 110-years old which showcases arts and crafts from local artists. At night, it is time to visit the quintessential night market. Raohe Night Market is one of the oldest and most popular. Its almost 2000-feet stretch is packed with shops and stalls selling souvenirs and snacks. Eat your way down the market as you browse deeply discounted fashion. Don't forget to try this market's famed black pepper bun.

Today discover the city's mix of new and old. Start the morning at Longshan temple, built in 1738 by settlers from Fujian, China. Then head to the Taiwan 101 building, an iconic skyscraper for its unique architectural style evoking traditional Asian aesthetics in a modern structure. Head to the observation deck for views over the city and to see the world's largest damper sphere which helps the building endure earthquakes. We recommend trying soup dumplings made famous by Taiwanese restaurant Din Tai Fung, at its original location for lunch. In the afternoon, pay a visit to the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall and catch the changing of the guards before exploring the National Palace Museum. This museum has an impressive permanent collection of ancient Chinese imperial artifacts and artwork which were brought to Taiwan by the fleeing Nationalist party, saving them from being destroyed during China's Cultural Revolution. This evening, visit the nearby Shilin night market, the largest and most famous in the city. Peruse the alleys and lanes lined with food stalls, video arcades, shops, karaoke bars and snack to your heart's content. If you dare, try the night market classic snack, stinky tofu.

After breakfast, depart from your hotel in Taipei at around 09:00 for a full-day excursion to the north coast. Begin with a visit to Yehliu Geopark, known for its striking rock formations shaped by wind and sea, including the iconic “Queen’s Head.”Continue to Jiufen Old Street, a lively hillside district filled with narrow lanes, local shops, and scenic views of the coastline. Then travel to Shifen Old Street, where a railway line runs through the heart of the village, lined with shops and eateries. Here, you may experience the tradition of releasing a sky lantern.In the evening, visit Raohe Street Night Market, one of Taipei’s most traditional night markets, offering a wide selection of street food and local specialties. After the visit, return to your hotel at around 20:00.

After breakfast, depart Taipei for a scenic journey toward Hualien along Taiwan’s east coast. Travel to Yilan, where you will visit the Kavalan Whisky Distillery to learn about Taiwan’s renowned spirits.Continue to Dajili Tribal House, a mountain farm set within the Taroko region, where you will enjoy a local experience surrounded by rolling hills and pastoral landscapes, including lunch.Proceed south with a stop at Chongde Gravel Beach, offering striking views of the Pacific Ocean framed by the dramatic Qingshui Cliffs. Then visit the Taroko National Park Visitor Center, an introduction point to the gorge with informative exhibits. Afterward, continue to your hotel.

Please note that road access may be restricted in the late afternoon; alternatively, accommodation in Hualien city may be arranged if needed.

Depart from your hotel in Taipei and travel to Yilan. Begin with a visit to the National Center for Traditional Arts, a cultural village showcasing traditional Taiwanese crafts, local foods, and artisanal products. Continue to the Kavalan Whisky Distillery, where you will learn about the production of Taiwan’s award-winning whiskies through a guided introduction to the distillery. At the end of the day, return to your hotel.

Depart from your hotel and transfer to the train station to board the high-speed rail to Kaohsiung. Upon arrival, begin your exploration of the city with a visit to Fo Guang Shan Buddha Museum, a vast cultural and religious complex featuring temples, a university, and a towering seated Buddha statue. Continue to Lotus Pond, a scenic area known for its lakeside temples and peaceful walking paths. Then visit The Pier-2 Art Center, a revitalized warehouse district showcasing contemporary art, galleries, and creative spaces. Later, explore the Shinkuchan Shopping District, a lively area popular for its boutiques and local atmosphere. At the end of the day, return to your hotel.

Head to Tainan. Begin with a visit to Koxinga Shrine, dedicated to the Ming Dynasty hero who played a key role in Taiwan’s history. Continue to Chihkan Tower, a historic site originally built by the Dutch, followed by Anping Old Fort, an important landmark from the colonial period.Stroll along Anping Old Street, known for its traditional shops and local snacks. Later, transfer to the station and take the high-speed rail back to Taipei.

Have breakfast and spend the morning at leisure, perhaps enjoying a final bowl of Taiwanese beef noodle soup or last minute souvenir collecting. When ready, a private transfer will take you to the airport for your flight onward.