1. Introducing Taiwan – An ideal destination for independent travel

1.1. Why should you travel to Taiwan on your own instead of taking a package tour?

Taiwan is an ideal destination for those who love to explore on their own. Instead of being tied to a package tour, independent travel to Taiwan allows you to plan your own itinerary, choose your own destinations, and freely eat and rest without being rushed. Affordable prices, friendly tourist infrastructure, diverse cuisine and unique culture make this place "worth the money".

In addition, young people like to feel proactive and creative during their trip: choosing their own virtual living angle, eating the right food, stopping for a long time at their favorite place or skipping crowded places. Taiwan perfectly meets that with its convenience, friendliness and authentic Asian experiences.

Taipei in particular and Taiwan in general are places where you can learn how to master your trip: find the right bus stop in Taichung to go to Sun Moon Lake without knowing Chinese, determine the right direction in the maze of Taipei Main Station, book the right HSR ticket for the right route at a cheap price, or hunt for the right cherry blossom season so you don't miss the beautiful moment. Don't compare Taiwan with any other city or country, because this country itself is a place worth visiting and experiencing.

1.2 What is attractive about independent travel in Taiwan in 2025?

In 2025 , Taiwan is still a hot name in the independent travel community thanks to:

• Super vibrant night market, delicious food : Taiwanese fried chicken, grilled oysters, spicy beef noodles, pearl milk tea - cheap but the taste is not "cheap" at all.

• The landscape is as diverse as Europe : In the morning, climb Alishan mountain to watch the sunrise, at noon, cycle around Sun Moon Lake, in the afternoon, stroll around the ancient village of Jiufen - all in the same trip.

• Convenient travel : From MRT to high-speed train, everything is modern, easy to use, and payment is easy with EasyCard. Even if you don't know Chinese, it's still easy to get around thanks to bilingual signs.

• Unique cultural exchange : From Japanese-Chinese architecture, Taoist rituals to modern lifestyle, Taiwan is a place that retains "Asian quality" in a very new breath.
  Independent travel to Taiwan is not just a trip, but a journey where you can take control of each experience - plan it yourself according to your taste, speed, and inspiration.

2. Guide to preparing and experiencing independent travel to Taiwan

2.1. Instructions for applying for a visa, exchanging money, sim card and apps to install

• Taiwan Visa : Vietnamese people can apply for an e-visa if they have a valid visa from the US, Japan, Korea, Schengen... Otherwise, they can submit a paper visa application at the Taipei Economic Office.

• Currency exchange : You should exchange New Taiwan Dollar (TWD) in Vietnam for a better rate. Keep some extra USD to exchange at the airport.

• Sim card/Esim : Pre-order on Klook or buy at the airport. Unlimited 4G is the most convenient.

• Essential self-guided apps : Google Maps, Taiwan Railway, Bus+, Uber/LINE Taxi, KKDay for quick ticket booking.

2.2. Tips for booking, traveling and saving schedules

If this is your first time traveling like this, don't miss these self-guided travel tips to save money and be more proactive.

• Accommodation : Prioritize areas near MRT such as Ximending (Taipei), Fengjia (Taichung) for convenient travel, hostel/dorm prices range from 250k - 500k/night.

• Transportation : Use EasyCard for MRT, buses, and even convenience stores. For long distance travel, book HSR or regular trains – a combo that saves money if you book early.

• Smart schedule : Divide the route into reasonable clusters:

• North: Taipei – Jiufen

• Central: Taichung – Sun Moon Lake

• East: Hualien – Taroko

• South: Kaohsiung – Kenting

2.3. Experience of independent travel in Taiwan by region

2.3.1 Taipei – The city that never sleeps

Taiwan's most vibrant center with a perfect blend of modern and traditional. Must-see experiences:

• Go up to Taipei 101 tower to see the whole city from the 89th floor.

Taipei 101 Tower is the pride of Taiwanese people.

• Stroll through Ximending Night Market – a paradise for young people with street style, idol cosplay and all-night shopping.

Ximending Night Market attracts all tourists when coming to Taiwan

• Go to Jiufen ancient village - the place that inspired Ghibli movies, red lanterns cover the small slopes.

Jiufen Ancient Village at night is breathtakingly beautiful in Taiwan

• Try Beitou Hot Springs – Japanese-style relaxation in the heart of the city.

Beitou Hot Springs is a famous resort in Taipei.

2.3.2. Taichung – City of art and chill

Taichung is an ideal stop for those who enjoy gentle exploration and slow living:

• Cycle around Sun Moon Lake, watch the sunset or rent a kayak to relax in nature.

• Check-in at Rainbow Village - a colorful little village completely hand-painted by an old man.

• Spend an evening feasting at Fengjia Night Market – Taiwan's largest night market.

Phung Giap night market at night is irresistibly attractive to tourists.

2.3.3. Hualien – Taroko: Majestic nature

If you enjoy fresh air and spectacular trekking routes, don't miss the Hualien region:

• Explore Taroko National Park's granite canyons – breathtaking cliffside trails.

Granite Canyon formed by erosion from the Liwu River

• Visit Qixingtan Beach – clear water, clean sand and gravel, cool sea breeze, ideal for a break.

Blue sea water and mossy rocks at That Tinh Dam beach

• Rent a motorbike to go along the coast and into the mountains - truly independent, a true backpacker experience.

2.3.4. Kaohsiung – City of Art and Seaport

Kaohsiung has a completely different color - dynamic but not chaotic:

• Visit Pier-2 Art Center – an art complex from an old warehouse, full of installations and creative spaces.

Explore Pier 2 Art Center in Kaohsiung

• Take a walk or boat ride on the Love River – a romantic scene, sparkling with lights at night.

Romantic Love River in the heart of Kaohsiung city

• Try fresh seafood at Liuhe night market – rich Taiwanese flavor, a bit “strong” but worth a try.

Must-Visit Places in Taiwan

2.4 Taiwan self-guided travel review from Tatinta community

• “I thought I was on a VIP tour because everything was so convenient. I spent 14 million VND in 6 days, going from Taipei to Kaohsiung, having fun!” – Uyen, 28 years old.

• “My itinerary is light, 1-2 days each place, but Jiufen and Alishan are my favorite – they are as beautiful as fairy tales!” – Duy, 31 years old.

3. Suggested itineraries and memorable experience summary

Suggested 6 days 5 nights itinerary:

• Day 1–2 : Taipei – Taipei 101 Tower, Ximending, Jiufen Old Village, Raohe Night Market.

• Day 3 : Taichung – Sun Moon Lake, Rainbow Village.

• Day 4 : Hualien – trekking Taroko Park.

• Day 5 : Kaohsiung – Liuhe Night Market, Love River Cruise.

• Day 6 : Return to Taipei – light shopping, go to the airport.

Summary

Traveling independently to Taiwan in 2025 is an extremely “worth the money” choice for those who like to experience things in their own way. From nature to cuisine, from bustling night markets to peaceful ancient villages – this journey has all the colors, is easy to go – reasonable cost – no worries about “failing” like a crowded tour. Just plan your itinerary a little bit cleverly, you will have a really “enjoyable” trip.

4. FAQs – Answers to questions when traveling to Taiwan on your own

1. How much does it cost to travel to Taiwan on your own?
Average 13-18 million for 5-7 days (including airfare, hotel, food, transportation, sightseeing tickets).

2. Can I travel independently without knowing Chinese?
Still going well! Taiwan has a lot of English support, friendly people, clear signs. Can use translation app for protection.

3. What is the best season to go to Taiwan?
Spring (March–April) has cherry blossoms, autumn (October–November) is cool, little rain, see red leaves.

4. Is independent travel safe?
Very safe, especially for female solo travelers. However, avoid deserted alleys late at night and keep your belongings safe at night markets.