Why visit
Taiwan packs night markets, Taroko's marble gorge, hot-spring towns, and the world's best beef noodle debate into an island circled by a single rail loop. Taipei 101 anchors a capital that does food obsessively well.
Country - Asia
Taiwan
foodculturenaturecity
How to use this result
Use it as a country shortlist
Taiwan works best as a first-pass travel idea. Start with the region, season, and themes on this page, then compare flights, entry rules, safety guidance, and local transport before treating it as a real option.
Compare the capital and side trips
Use Taipei as the administrative starting point, then check whether the strongest trip idea is actually the capital, a coastal area, a nature route, or another city in Taiwan.
At a glance
Location
23.5°, 121.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
36,193 km²
13,974 mi²
Country population
23.9 million
661/km²
Subregion
Eastern Asia
Currency
New Taiwan dollar ($)
TWD
Dial
+886
Language
Chinese
Demonym
Taiwanese
Internet
.tw
ISO code
TW / TWN
Where in the world
23.5° - 121.0°
Taiwan
Open in Google Maps
Click the map to open in Google Maps. Outline via svg-maps/world - CC BY 4.0
Did you know
- Taiwan produces over 60% of the world's semiconductors: TSMC alone makes ~50% of the world's advanced chips.
- Taipei 101 has one of the world's fastest elevators: 60.6 km/h to the 89th floor in 37 seconds.
- Bubble tea was invented in Taichung, Taiwan, in the 1980s and has since spread globally.
Traveler notes
- Night markets are the national institution; start with Raohe in Taipei
- The east coast and Taroko Gorge carry the scenery
- High-speed rail runs the west coast in under two hours
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital Taipei, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
- Bring layered clothing and verify trail/park access before arrival.
Explore more
Facts last reviewed June 2026 against GeoNames and national statistics sources. See the editorial policy for how destination data is maintained.
Frequently asked about Taiwan
What is the capital of Taiwan?
Taipei is the capital of Taiwan.
What currency does Taiwan use?
Taiwan uses the New Taiwan dollar ($), ISO code TWD.
What languages are spoken in Taiwan?
The primary language is Chinese.
Is Taiwan landlocked?
No, Taiwan has a coastline.
What is the international calling code for Taiwan?
The calling code is +886.
When is the best time to visit Taiwan?
Oct–Apr. Check current weather and local events before booking.
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