Go Taiwan Transport – Explore Taipei’s Popular Destinations
Welcome to Taipei
Taipei, the bustling capital of Taiwan, is a city that blends the modern with the traditional, offering skyscrapers alongside ancient temples, vibrant night markets, and breathtaking natural landscapes just outside the city. For travelers, Taipei serves as both a cultural hub and a convenient gateway to some of Taiwan’s most beautiful destinations.
At Go Taiwan Transport private car with driver, we’ve curated the most popular day-trip routes from Taipei so you can experience everything the region has to offer — from dramatic coastal rock formations and historic towns to relaxing hot springs and mountain escapes. With private vehicles, professional drivers, and the flexibility to explore at your own pace, traveling has never been easier.
Check our Taipei private car pricing / day trip rates or Vehicle options for Taipei transfers.
Popular Route 1: Coastal Wonders & Historic Streets
野柳地質公園 (Yehliu Geopark)
Yehliu Geopark is one of Taiwan’s most famous natural attractions, known for its otherworldly landscapes sculpted by wind and sea erosion over millions of years. Located along the North Coast, just an hour from Taipei, the park is a stunning display of nature’s creativity.
The highlight is the iconic “Queen’s Head” rock, which has become a symbol of Yehliu. But beyond this, you’ll find dozens of fascinating formations like the Fairy Shoe, Sea Candles, and Mushroom Rocks. Each formation has been shaped uniquely, sparking the imagination of visitors who often compare them to animals, people, and mythical figures.
The park is family-friendly, with well-maintained walking paths that take you along the dramatic coastline. The sea breeze and panoramic ocean views make it a photographer’s paradise. If you’re lucky, you might even spot some of the migratory seabirds that nest in the area.
Travel tip: Visit early in the day to avoid crowds. Bring a hat and sunscreen as there’s little shade. After exploring, you can enjoy fresh seafood at the nearby fishing village stalls.
十分瀑布 (Shifen Waterfall)
Often called the “Niagara of Taiwan,” Shifen Waterfall is the widest waterfall in the country at 40 meters. Its powerful cascades and misty spray create rainbows on sunny days, making it one of the most photogenic spots near Taipei.
The journey to Shifen Waterfall is just as enjoyable as the destination. Visitors walk along scenic boardwalks, cross suspension bridges, and pass through lush greenery before reaching the viewing platforms. The falls are especially dramatic during the rainy season, but remain beautiful year-round.
Shifen is also famous for its old railway tracks that run right through the town. Here, visitors can take part in the beloved tradition of releasing sky lanterns into the sky, writing wishes and blessings before letting them float away. It’s a cultural experience that adds a touch of magic to your day trip.
Travel tip: Wear comfortable shoes as the paths can be slippery. Combine your visit with Jiufen Old Street for a well-rounded cultural and scenic experience.
九份老街 (Jiufen Old Street)
Nestled in the mountains overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Jiufen Old Street is a historic mining town turned cultural gem. Famous for its narrow alleys, teahouses, and lantern-lit atmosphere, Jiufen transports visitors back in time.
The town gained global recognition for inspiring scenes in Studio Ghibli’s film Spirited Away. Walking through Jiufen feels like stepping into a movie, with red lanterns glowing against the backdrop of misty hills. Traditional teahouses offer breathtaking views, while the old street is lined with stalls selling local specialties like taro balls, peanut ice cream rolls, and herbal rice cakes.
Beyond food, Jiufen is rich in history. Once a booming gold mining town during the Japanese colonial era, remnants of that past remain in the form of architecture, museums, and cultural stories. It’s the perfect place to slow down, sip tea, and soak in the nostalgic charm.
Travel tip: Visit in the late afternoon, stay for dinner, and catch the magical moment when the lanterns light up the streets.
基隆 (Keelung)
Located just northeast of Taipei, Keelung is a bustling port city best known for its famous Miaokou Night Market. This vibrant night market is a paradise for food lovers, offering some of the freshest seafood in Taiwan. Must-try dishes include oyster omelets, tempura skewers, crab soup, and grilled shellfish. The market’s bright yellow lanterns create a lively, festive atmosphere that makes dining here a memorable experience.
Beyond food, Keelung offers a mix of cultural and scenic attractions. Visit the Keelung Maritime Plaza for harbor views, or explore historic sites like the Ershawan Fort and Zhongzheng Park, home to a towering statue of Guanyin overlooking the city. For a more relaxed experience, stroll along the harbor at sunset and watch the fishing boats return with their fresh catch of the day.
Travel tip: Arrive in Keelung hungry — the night market is one of Taiwan’s most famous and is best enjoyed with an empty stomach. If you’re traveling in the evening, make Keelung your last stop to enjoy dinner before heading back to Taipei.
Popular Route 2: Hot Springs & Mountain Escapes
陽明山國家公園 (Yangmingshan National Park)
Located just a short drive from Taipei, Yangmingshan National Park is a natural wonderland of mountains, hot springs, and volcanic landscapes. It’s famous for its seasonal beauty: cherry blossoms in spring, fields of calla lilies in summer, colorful maple leaves in autumn, and misty hot springs in winter.
The park is home to hiking trails ranging from easy strolls to challenging climbs. Popular spots include Xiaoyoukeng, where you can witness steaming fumaroles, and Lengshuikeng, a natural hot spring area. For a peaceful escape, Zhuzihu Valley is covered with white calla lilies each April and May.
Travel tip: If you only have a short time, focus on one or two highlights. The weather in Yangmingshan can change quickly — bring a jacket even in warmer months.
北投溫泉 (Beitou Hot Springs)
Beitou is Taipei’s most famous hot spring district, blending relaxation with history. Developed during the Japanese colonial era, the hot springs here are rich in sulfur and known for their therapeutic properties.
You’ll find a variety of hot spring experiences, from luxurious spa hotels to affordable public baths. The Beitou Hot Spring Museum, housed in a former Japanese bathhouse, gives insight into the district’s history. Strolling through Beitou feels like entering a different world, with steam rising from the ground and the scent of sulfur in the air.
Travel tip: Try a private hot spring room if you prefer privacy. Some baths offer outdoor pools surrounded by greenery — perfect for relaxation after a day of sightseeing.
地熱谷 (Thermal Valley)
Also called Hell Valley, Thermal Valley is one of Beitou’s most unique attractions. The valley features a jade-green hot spring lake with water temperatures reaching up to 100°C. Thick steam rises from the surface, creating an otherworldly atmosphere.
Though bathing is not allowed here, it’s a fascinating place to witness geothermal activity up close. The area also provides insight into why Beitou developed as a hot spring destination in the first place. The contrast between the lush greenery and the steaming water makes it a great spot for photos.
Travel tip: Visit Thermal Valley before or after a hot spring soak in Beitou to fully appreciate the geothermal experience.
淡水 (Tamsui)
After a day in Yangmingshan and Beitou, unwind by watching the sun set over the Tamsui River. The area is perfect for couples, families, and solo travelers alike, offering a slower pace and plenty of food stalls to sample before heading back to Taipei.
Travel with Comfort & Convenience
Exploring these destinations on your own can be tricky with multiple train and bus transfers. With Go Taiwan Transport, you can enjoy the comfort of a private car or van with a professional driver who knows the best routes and local tips. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or a tour group, we make sure your journey is stress-free and enjoyable.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What to do in Taipei?
Taipei is packed with things to do, from city highlights to nearby day trips. In the city, you can visit Taipei 101, Longshan Temple, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, and explore night markets like Shilin or Raohe. From Taipei, many travellers also join day trips to Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, Shifen, Keelung, Yangmingshan and Beitou with Go Taiwan Transport for a mix of nature, hot springs and old streets.
Where to stay in Taipei?
Most visitors stay in central areas such as Ximending, Taipei Main Station, Zhongshan, or Xinyi (near Taipei 101). These neighbourhoods make it easy to reach MRT lines, shopping streets, and night markets. Wherever you choose to stay, Go Taiwan Transport offers door-to-door pickup from your Taipei hotel or Airbnb.
Where to go in Taipei?
For first-time visitors, focus on a mix of downtown and nearby escapes. In the city, Ximending is lively and youthful, Xinyi offers malls and Taipei 101 views, and Dadaocheng is great for heritage streets and tea shops. As day trips from Taipei, popular routes include Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen and Shifen, Keelung night market, Yangmingshan National Park, Beitou hot springs and sunset in Tamsui.
What to buy in Taipei?
Popular things to buy in Taipei include pineapple cakes, nougat candies, Taiwanese tea, sun cakes, mochi, local snacks from night markets, and skincare or sheet masks from pharmacies. You’ll also find cute stationery, souvenirs and design goods in shopping areas and creative markets, making it easy to bring home gifts from your trip.
What to eat in Taipei?
Taipei is a food lover’s city. Must-try dishes include beef noodle soup, braised pork rice (lu rou fan), xiao long bao (soup dumplings), scallion pancakes, oyster omelets, stinky tofu, fried chicken cutlets and bubble tea. Night markets such as Shilin, Raohe and Ningxia are some of the best places to sample many different snacks in one evening.
Where to shop in Taipei?
For shopping, head to Ximending for fashion, streetwear and youth culture, the Xinyi district around Taipei 101 for malls and international brands, and the Eastern District for boutiques and cafés. Underground malls near Taipei Main Station and night markets like Shilin or Raohe are also popular for budget finds, souvenirs and street food in one stop.
When is the best time to visit these attractions?
- Yehliu Geopark: Year-round, but best in spring or autumn when the weather is mild.
- Jiufen Old Street: Evening for lantern views.
- Yangmingshan: Spring for cherry blossoms, autumn for foliage.
- Beitou: Perfect in winter for hot spring bathing.
Why Book with Go Taiwan Transport?
- Private, door-to-door convenience
- Experienced local drivers with insider knowledge
- Flexible itineraries tailored to your needs
- Safe, reliable, and comfortable transport
- Perfect for families, couples, and groups of all sizes
Plan Your Taipei Adventure Today
With so much to see and do in Taipei, the best way to experience it all is with the comfort and flexibility of private transport. At Go Taiwan Transport Taiwan’s car rental with driver, we make sure your journey is smooth, enjoyable, and unforgettable – we also offer custom private day trips to Alishan day trip, Kaohsiung day trip, Taichung day trip, Tainan day trip, and Yilan day trip.
Book your Taipei day trip now and let us take you to the city’s most popular destinations in style.