Best Places for Families to Travel in Taiwan

Taiwan is a vibrant island nation that offers a plethora of activities and attractions for families traveling with kids. From bustling cities with rich cultural experiences to serene towns with natural beauty, Taiwan has something to cater to the interests of every family member. Whether you're looking to explore museums, enjoy amusement parks, or simply soak in the local culture at a leisurely pace, the following cities and towns in Taiwan are sure to make your family trip memorable and enjoyable.

Taipei

Taipei, the capital city of Taiwan, is a bustling metropolis that is surprisingly family-friendly. The Taipei Zoo, one of the largest in Asia, is a must-visit for families, showcasing a wide variety of animals and the popular Giant Panda House. For a bit of fun and education, the Taipei Children's Amusement Park offers rides suitable for all ages. The National Palace Museum, with its vast collection of Chinese imperial artifacts, is also a great place for kids to learn about history and art. The best time to visit Taipei is during the fall when the weather is pleasant and the city hosts numerous festivals. For cost-saving tips, consider purchasing the Taipei Fun Pass, which offers unlimited access to public transportation and entry to many attractions.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the Maokong Gondola ride, which offers breathtaking views of Taipei and the surrounding mountains. It's a fantastic way to see the city from above and a fun experience for the kids.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Grand Hotel Taipei and the Caesar Park Hotel are both family-friendly options with spacious rooms. For dining, check out the themed Modern Toilet Restaurant for a quirky experience or Din Tai Fung for some of the best dumplings in town.

Kaohsiung

Kaohsiung, Taiwan's harbor city, is known for its laid-back atmosphere and cultural landmarks. The Pier-2 Art Center, a reclaimed warehouse area turned into a creative arts space, often has interactive exhibits that engage children. The Kaohsiung Harbor offers beautiful sunset views and a chance to see the city's skyline from the water. Lotus Pond, with its colorful temples and giant statues, is another family favorite. Visit in the cooler months from October to April for the best experience. To save money, use the Kaohsiung MRT for convenient and affordable transportation around the city.

Travel Tip: The Dragon and Tiger Pagodas at Lotus Pond are not only stunning but also offer an interesting walk through the dragon's mouth and out the tiger's mouth, symbolizing turning bad luck into good fortune.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Howard Plaza Hotel Kaohsiung and the Chateau de Chine Hotel are great options for families. For a taste of local cuisine, try the Liuhe Night Market for a variety of street food options.

Taichung

Taichung is a city that combines culture, nature, and entertainment, making it perfect for a family getaway. The National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts is a spacious venue that often features interactive exhibits for kids. Families can also enjoy the natural beauty of Taichung at the Sea of Flowers in Xinshe, especially during the flower festival in November. The Fengjia Night Market is a great place to explore with kids, offering a wide range of food and games. Visit Taichung in the spring or fall for the best weather. Look out for the Taichung City Pass, which can help save on attractions and transportation.

Travel Tip: The Rainbow Village, with its vibrant street art and murals, is a colorful and Instagram-worthy spot that will captivate both kids and adults.

Where to Stay & Eat: Tempus Hotel Taichung and The Lin Hotel are both family-friendly with amenities like pools and play areas. For dining, Carton King Creativity Park offers meals served in cardboard settings, which is fun for kids.

Hualien

Hualien is the gateway to the stunning Taroko Gorge National Park, a natural wonder that's perfect for families who love the outdoors. The park offers easy trails that are manageable for kids, such as the Shakadang Trail, which follows a crystal-clear river. The Hualien Farglory Ocean Park combines an amusement park with marine animal shows, providing a full day of entertainment. The best time to visit Hualien is from April to October, when the weather is warm and dry. To save on costs, consider purchasing a Taroko Gorge day pass for unlimited bus rides within the park.

Travel Tip: The Qixingtan Beach is a pebble beach with clear blue waters, ideal for a family picnic and stone skipping with the kids.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Silks Place Taroko Hotel is located right in the national park, offering convenience and comfort. For dining, Dongdamen Night Market provides a variety of local snacks and dishes.

Yilan

Yilan is known for its natural hot springs, lush greenery, and cultural experiences. The National Center for Traditional Arts offers hands-on activities where kids can learn about Taiwanese crafts and traditions. The Luodong Night Market is a family-friendly spot to try local delicacies. For outdoor fun, the Suao Cold Spring Park is a unique experience where you can swim in naturally carbonated water. Yilan is best visited in the spring or fall to avoid the summer crowds and the winter rain. To save money, consider staying in a homestay, which often offers a more personal and cost-effective accommodation option.

Travel Tip: The Jimmy Park in Yilan is inspired by the works of famous Taiwanese illustrator Jimmy Liao. Its whimsical statues and installations are sure to delight children.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Lakeshore Hotel Yilan and the Silks Place Yilan are great choices for families, with kid-friendly facilities. For a unique dining experience, try the traditional Taiwanese dishes at the Center for Traditional Arts.

Tainan

Tainan, the oldest city in Taiwan, is rich in history and culture, offering a more laid-back atmosphere for families. The Chimei Museum is not only architecturally impressive but also houses a diverse collection that includes fine arts, natural history, and musical instruments. The Tainan Astronomical Education Area is a fun place for kids to learn about space and the stars. Anping Tree House and Fort Zeelandia allow families to explore the city's past in an interactive way. The best time to visit Tainan is from November to April when the weather is cooler. To save on expenses, take advantage of the Tainan City Pass for discounts on attractions and transportation.

Travel Tip: The Anping Old Street is a must-visit for its traditional snacks and quaint shops, offering a glimpse into the local lifestyle and history.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Shangri-La's Far Eastern Plaza Hotel Tainan and the Kindness Hotel - Tainan Chihkan Tower are both excellent family-friendly options. For food, the Garden Night Market is a great place to sample a variety of Taiwanese street foods.

Penghu

Penghu, an archipelago of islands off the west coast of Taiwan, is a paradise for families looking for beach fun and water activities. The Penghu Marine Geopark features unique basalt columns and is a great educational spot for kids interested in geology. The Penghu Aquarium offers insights into the marine life of the region. For a relaxing day, head to one of the many beautiful beaches like Shanshui Beach. The best time to visit Penghu is from late spring to early fall when the weather is warm and suitable for beach activities. To save on travel costs, consider booking a family package tour that includes accommodation and activities.

Travel Tip: Don't miss the chance to take a boat tour around the islands. It's an excellent way for the family to see the beauty of Penghu from the sea.

Where to Stay & Eat: The Penghu Bay Hotel and the Discovery Hotel offer family-friendly accommodations. For dining, the Magong City area has numerous seafood restaurants where you can enjoy fresh catches of the day.