Relaxing 8-Day Nature and Culinary Journey in Taiwan from Penang

Day 1: Arrival & Taipei Relax

Taipei, Taiwan on December 23, 2025

10:00am

Flight Arrival at Taipei Taoyuan Airport

Land in Taipei via China Airlines from Penang and transfer to your hotel, preferably near Taipei Main Station for ease of transit and convenience. Check-in and settle into a well-reviewed hotel such as the Palais de Chine Hotel known for its location and comfort.
TWD0, 1h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Din Tai Fung - Xinyi

Enjoy a famous Taiwanese meal featuring delicate xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) at Din Tai Fung Xinyi branch, renowned globally and conveniently accessed by Taipei metro.
TWD500, 1h0m

2:00pm

Leisure Walk at Daan Forest Park

Relax and absorb nature in Daan Forest Park, often described as the 'Central Park' of Taipei, providing a peaceful green space amidst the bustling city.
TWD0, 1h30m

5:00pm

Taipei 101 Observatory Visit

Visit the iconic Taipei 101 and enjoy panoramic views of Taipei at sunset, a must-see landmark accessible by metro.
TWD600, 1h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at Addiction Aquatic Development

Indulge in fresh seafood at this unique market-style eatery offering sushi, grilled seafood, and a sushi buffet, celebrated for freshness and variety.
TWD800, 1h30m
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Day 2: Taipei & Night Market

Taipei, Taiwan on December 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Yonghe Soy Milk

Start your day with classic Taiwanese breakfast items like soy milk, egg pancakes, and fried dough sticks at this highly rated local eatery near your hotel.
TWD100, 1h0m

9:30am

National Palace Museum

Visit this world-class museum showcasing one of the largest collections of Chinese imperial artifacts and artworks, perfect for a cultural immersion in a relaxing atmosphere. Open 9am-5pm.
TWD350, 3h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Shilin Market Food Court

Taste a variety of Taiwanese street food in one place, including oyster omelette, bubble tea, and stinky tofu, located near the metro station for easy access.
TWD300, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax at Beitou Thermal Valley

Take the metro north to Beitou and enjoy soaking in hot springs or a gentle walk around the Thermal Valley park with its natural steaming sulfuric hot springs. Open daily.
TWD0-200, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Jin Feng Braised Pork Rice

Savour traditional Taiwanese comfort food, best known for its delicious braised pork rice, a favourite among locals, located close to the Zhongshan metro area.
TWD200, 1h0m
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Day 3: Nature & Hot Springs

Taipei & Beitou, Taiwan on December 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at hotel or nearby café

Light breakfast at your hotel or a local café to prepare for your nature day.
TWD150, 1h0m

9:00am

Yangmingshan National Park

Explore the beautiful natural trails, volcanic geography, and seasonal flower gardens in Yangmingshan National Park, just north of Taipei. Expect gentle walks and breathtaking views.
TWD0, 4h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at The Top, Yangmingshan

Dine with a view surrounded by nature at this restaurant offering Taiwanese and western dishes with ingredients sourced locally from the park area.
TWD600, 1h30m

3:30pm

Beitou Hot Spring Bath

Unwind in a private or public hot spring bath in Beitou, famous for its natural mineral waters, revitalizing for body and mind.
TWD300, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Jingmei Night Market

End your day sampling various street foods in a less touristy local market offering a variety of snacks and comfort food.
TWD300, 1h0m
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Day 4: Historic Town & Scenery

Jiufen & Pingxi, Taiwan on December 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at hotel

Have a hearty breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a day of exploration.
TWD150, 0h45m

8:30am

Travel to Jiufen

Take a scenic drive or public transport to the charming mountain town of Jiufen, famous for its old streets, teahouses, and stunning sea views.
TWD150, 1h0m

9:30am

Explore Jiufen Old Street

Stroll through Jiufen Old Street, experiencing traditional snacks, crafts, and teahouses, immersing yourself in nostalgic town scenery.
TWD0, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at A-Mei Tea House

Enjoy local tea culture and light Taiwanese cuisine in this iconic tea house with fantastic views.
TWD400, 1h0m

2:00pm

Pingxi Sky Lantern Experience

Head to nearby Pingxi and participate in the traditional sky lantern release, a lovely cultural experience surrounded by nature.
TWD200, 2h0m

5:00pm

Return to Taipei

Head back to Taipei for a restful evening after a day of scenic leisure.
TWD150, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Raohe Street Night Market

Discover street delicacies and vibrant atmosphere at Raohe Street Night Market, ideal for a filling dinner.
TWD300, 1h30m
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Day 5: Transfer to Hualien

Taipei to Hualien, Taiwan on December 27, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy an early breakfast before your train journey to Hualien.
TWD150, 0h45m

8:30am

Train to Hualien

Board a scenic train ride from Taipei to Hualien, traveling along the beautiful east coast of Taiwan – an unmissable experience. Seat reservations recommended.
TWD440, 3h30m

12:00pm

Check-in to Hotel in Hualien

Stay at a well-reviewed hotel such as the Azure Hotel or Lakeshore Hotel close to the city centre and transport options.
TWD0, 1h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Gongzheng Baozi Shop

Savour hand-made steamed buns and local Hualien flavours at one of the most popular eateries.
TWD150, 1h0m

2:30pm

Visit Qixingtan Beach

Relax at this beautiful pebble beach on the Pacific Ocean, perfect for a leisurely stroll or just soaking in the atmosphere.
TWD0, 2h0m

5:30pm

Dinner at Dongdamen Night Market

Explore a variety of street foods in this spacious and lively market featuring local and indigenous cuisine.
TWD300, 1h30m
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Day 6: Taroko Gorge Adventure

Hualien, Taiwan on December 28, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Fuel up with an early breakfast in preparation for your Taroko National Park day.
TWD150, 0h45m

8:00am

Full Day at Taroko Gorge

Explore one of Taiwan’s most spectacular natural wonders with hiking trails, marble cliffs, and waterfalls. Highlights include Shakadang Trail and Swallow Grotto. Open from 8am to 5pm.
TWD0, 7h0m

3:30pm

Return to Hualien

After your nature adventure, return to Hualien for a restful evening.
TWD0, 1h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at A Mei Restaurant

Enjoy local aboriginal-style dishes and seafood in a warmly lit restaurant close to your accommodation.
TWD500, 1h30m
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Day 7: Taitung Coastal Relax

Hualien to Taitung, Taiwan on December 29, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Begin your day with breakfast and prepare for a scenic transfer along the coast.
TWD150, 0h45m

8:30am

Train or Drive to Taitung

Travel southward via the East Coast for a picturesque journey to Taitung city, comfortable and less rushed to appreciate natural views en route.
TWD400, 3h30m

12:30pm

Check-in at Hotel in Taitung

Recommended hotel is the Ordo Hotel with good reviews and close to transit.
TWD0, 1h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Taitung Night Market (early lunch options)

Try seasonal fresh fruits and local snacks, famous for rice noodles and grilled seafood.
TWD250, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax at Jhiben Hot Springs

Spend your afternoon soaking in the natural hot springs at Jhiben, a tranquil experience great for relaxation.
TWD300, 2h0m

6:30pm

Dinner at Chun Shui Tang

Dining at Chun Shui Tang, known for Taiwanese specialty teas and light meals, ideal for a cozy dinner.
TWD400, 1h30m
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Day 8: Return to Taipei & Departure Prep

Taitung to Taipei, Taiwan on December 30, 2025

7:00am

Breakfast at hotel

Enjoy one last nutritious breakfast before your return trip.
TWD150, 0h45m

8:00am

Train from Taitung to Taipei

Take the train back to Taipei to allow time for relaxation and last-minute shopping. Approximate travel 3.5 hours.
TWD900, 3h30m

12:00pm

Lunch at Yongkang Street

Enjoy light local Taiwanese dishes and trendy cafés along Yongkang Street, ideal to appreciate the local lifestyle and do some shopping.
TWD400, 1h0m

2:00pm

Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Explore this iconic historical site and expansive parkland, situated near metro stations, for a calm cultural experience.
TWD0, 1h30m

4:00pm

Relax at hotel and prep for departure

Return to your hotel near Taoyuan airport shuttle or Taipei Main Station; rest and pack for your flight.
TWD0, 2h0m

7:00pm

Light Dinner at hotel or nearby

Opt for a light meal or hotel room service as you prepare for an early departure the next day.
TWD400, 1h0m
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