Northern Taiwan (Taipei, New Taipei City, Yilan County) 3-Day Tour

Explore the Best of Northern Taiwan in Just Three Days

This 3-day private tour of Northern Taiwan offers a well-rounded glimpse of the region’s most iconic sights, from bustling city streets to breathtaking natural landscapes. Although I haven’t personally taken this tour, the detailed itinerary, glowing reviews, and thoughtful design suggest it’s a fantastic way to experience Taiwan’s unique charm.

What we love about this tour:
– The seamless blend of culture, history, and nature that showcases Taiwan’s diversity
– The opportunity to visit renowned attractions like the National Palace Museum and Taipei 101 along with hidden gems like Jiufen Old Street and YehLiu Geopark
– The comfort of a private, flexible experience that feels intimate and personalized

One potential consideration is that the itinerary is quite packed, which means some attractions might feel rushed, especially if you want to linger longer. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer a curated, hassle-free way to see the highlights without the stress of planning. This tour suits those who want an immersive taste of Taiwan’s city life and scenic wonders in a short period, whether visiting for a first time or returning and wanting a structured overview.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Private Experience: The tour covers multiple top sights with the convenience of a private guide and vehicle.
• Cultural & Natural Mix: It balances visits to museums and historic sites with stunning outdoor landscapes and coastal views.
• Flexible & Comfortable: Pickup is offered, and the tour is designed for up to four guests, making it intimate and adaptable.
• Affordable Luxury: Priced at $765 for the group, it offers good value considering the diverse experiences across three days.
• Ideal for First-Timers & Cultural Enthusiasts: Perfect for those new to Taiwan or interested in a comprehensive yet relaxed itinerary.
• Booking in Advance: On average, travelers book 111 days ahead, indicating strong popularity and reliability.

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Day 1: Cultural Foundations and City Views

The tour kicks off in Taipei with visits to some of the city’s most iconic sites. First, we head to the National Palace Museum, home to an incredible collection of Chinese imperial artifacts. Expect around three hours here, though the ticket isn’t included, giving you flexibility to explore at your own pace. The museum’s vast halls are packed with treasures, and if you’re a history buff, you’ll appreciate the opportunity to see centuries-old porcelain, jade, and calligraphy.

Next, we visit the C.K.S. Shilin Residence Park — a quiet spot offering a glimpse into Taiwan’s political history. With just an hour here, it’s a brief but peaceful break from the city buzz. Then, the Chiang Kai-Shek Memorial Hall takes center stage, offering a majestic sight with its grand architecture and changing of the guard ceremony. The surrounding park is perfect for a leisurely walk, and the free entry makes it a highlight.

The day wraps up with a trip to Taipei 101, where you’ll ascend to the observation deck. The views over Taipei’s skyline are spectacular, especially as the city lights start to sparkle at dusk. Although the ticket isn’t included, the experience of seeing the city from above is worth the extra cost.

Day 2: Nature and Nostalgia

Day two takes us northward to YehLiu Geopark, known for its extraordinary rock formations and coastal scenery. We spend about 1.5 hours exploring the unusual shapes that have been carved by wind and sea over millennia. The landscape feels otherworldly, and it’s a must-see for geology buffs or anyone craving dramatic seaside views.

Then, we move to Shifen Old Street, famous for its sky lanterns. Here, you can write your wishes on a lantern and release it into the sky — a simple yet memorable tradition. It’s a lively, colorful spot suited for a quick visit, about an hour. From there, the tour continues along the coast to the Yin Yang Sea and Golden Waterfall, both offering striking photo opportunities with their contrasting colors and rugged beauty.

The afternoon features a visit to Jiufen Old Street, often called Taiwan’s “back garden,” where narrow alleyways are lined with teahouses, souvenir shops, and street food stalls. Two hours here give you enough time to wander, shop, and sample local treats, making it a perfect spot for discovery and tasting.

Day 3: Yilan’s Hidden Gems and Hot Springs

The third day shifts focus to Yilan County’s scenic and relaxing spots. We begin with Mr. Brown Coffee, where you can enjoy a premium coffee amidst mountain and sea scenery. It’s a calm start before heading to the Lanyang Museum, which offers engaging exhibits about the region’s ecology and culture. The inclusion of the museum highlights a focus on authentic education and local insight.

Next, we visit Qingshui Geothermal Park, where you can watch hot spring-cooked food being prepared — an unusual and tasty experience. The park’s natural thermal activity adds a soothing element to the day. Then, at Jimi Square – Yilan Station, you get a sense of local life and history, as well as more photo opportunities.

The tour concludes with the Tangweigou Jiaosi Hot Spring Park, where you can relax by soaking your feet in natural springs for free. It’s a fitting end to the trip, combining leisure with an authentic local experience.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Value for Money: At $765 for up to four people, this private tour offers a personalized, flexible experience that covers a wide range of sights without the hassle of self-planning. The inclusion of transportation, guide, and entry to some attractions makes it a cost-effective way to see a lot in a short time.

Authentic and Diverse Experiences: From the artistic treasures of the National Palace Museum to the raw natural beauty of YehLiu Geopark and the cozy nostalgia of Jiufen, the itinerary hits many of Taiwan’s highlights. The mix of cultural, historical, and scenic stops ensures you get a genuine taste of what makes Taiwan special.

Small Group Intimacy: The private setup means you’ll have a guide dedicated solely to your group, allowing for a more relaxed pace and personalized attention. Reviewers mention how the trip felt “delightful and customised,” with one noting the trip’s unexpected charm and flexibility.

Comfort and Convenience: Pickup service is available, and most attractions are accessible via public transportation, which adds to the ease of the experience. The overall pacing allows for meaningful exploration without feeling overwhelmed.

Possible Drawbacks and Considerations

While the itinerary is comprehensive, it’s quite full; some travelers might find the schedule a bit tight, especially if they want to linger longer at certain sites. The fact that some tickets aren’t included means you’ll need to budget extra for attractions like Taipei 101 or the museum if you want to go to the top.

Plus, the price might seem high at first glance, but when you factor in private transportation, guide services, and multiple entries, it offers good overall value for a curated, hassle-free experience. Still, travelers should be prepared for the possibility of additional costs, especially for optional activities or meals.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This experience suits first-time visitors to Taiwan who want a structured yet flexible overview. It’s also excellent for those interested in a mix of city sights, history, and scenic landscapes all in one trip. Travelers who value comfort, privacy, and guided insights will find this tour a worthwhile investment.

Active travelers will appreciate the diversity of experiences — from walking through old streets to enjoying panoramic views — while photography enthusiasts will love the variety of picture-perfect spots. It’s ideal for friends, couples, or small families seeking a curated, memorable trip.

Final Thoughts

This 3-day Northern Taiwan tour offers a well-balanced mix of culture, history, natural beauty, and local life. The private arrangement ensures a personalized experience, and the diverse stops promise a comprehensive taste of what Taiwan has to offer.

While some may wish for more free time at certain attractions, the overall itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize exposure and enjoyment within a short window. The inclusion of scenic coastlines, historic sites, and relaxing hot springs makes it especially compelling for travelers who want an authentic and immersive trip.

For those seeking a convenient way to cover Taiwan’s highlights without the stress of independent planning, this tour presents an excellent option—trust the positive reviews and the detailed itinerary to guide your decision.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate as the tour is designed to be comfortable, with a manageable pace and interesting sights for different age groups.

Are meals included in the tour?
No, meals are not included, so you may want to bring snacks or plan to purchase food during stops like Jiufen Old Street or Yilan.

Does the tour pick up from any location?
Pickup is offered, but additional fees might apply for departures outside the Taipei area.

Are tickets to scenic spots included?
Some attractions, such as the Lanyang Museum, are included, but others like Taipei 101 are not, so expect additional costs if you want to access certain sites.

What is the group size?
This is a private tour for up to four people, ensuring a more personalized experience.

How long are the travel times between stops?
Travel is via private vehicle, keeping transfers smooth and efficient, though some scenic drives may last around 20-30 minutes.

Can I customize this tour?
Since it’s a private experience, you can discuss preferences with your guide, though the itinerary is quite packed.

Is this tour suitable for those with mobility issues?
Most attractions involve walking, but check with the provider for specific accessibility arrangements.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a camera, some cash for extras, and weather-appropriate clothing are recommended.

This 3-day Northern Taiwan tour offers a compelling window into the country’s culture, natural beauty, and vibrant city life. Whether you’re after iconic sights or hidden gems, it’s a trip designed to leave you with lasting memories—and perhaps a few new favorites spots in Taiwan.