24 Hour Layover in Taiwan
Exploring Taiwanese Delights: 24-Hour Layovers in Taiwan
If you're a travel enthusiast who loves making the most out of every trip, then a 24-hour layover in Taiwan is a fantastic opportunity to explore a vibrant Asian destination. Known for its rich cultural heritage, breathtaking natural beauty, and mouthwatering cuisine, Taiwan offers a wide array of experiences that can be squeezed into a single day. Here's a guide to help you navigate and immerse yourself in the wonders of Taiwan during a short layover.
Getting through customs
Going through customs in Taiwan was a smooth and effortless process. Upon arrival, flight attendants were waiting to direct us to Taipei city or to a connecting flight. We followed the signs to exit into Taiwan - the signs were very easy to follow and all in English. The customs officer asked us how long we were staying and was very kind. For American’s we did not need any additional paperwork other then out passport to enter the city.
Uber in Taiwan
Uber has completely changed how people get around in Taiwan. In Taiwan, Uber is a vital service for both daily commutes in Taipei and exploring the countryside. We had no problem ordering an uber from the airport and our driver was very kind. We also had an exceptional experience with a different taxi driver, which I will explain later!
Head to the Grand Hotel
Our flight arrived around 10pm and despite the 45 minute commute, we decided to stay at The Grand Hotel. The Grand Hotel in Taiwan is an iconic landmark that exudes elegance and grandeur. Located in the heart of Taipei, this architectural masterpiece stands tall with its traditional Chinese palace-style design. The hotel boasts luxurious rooms that offer breathtaking views of the city and the iconic Shilin Night Market, which is one of the reasons we chose this as our hotel!
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Shilin Night Market
With only 20 hours to spare, we knew we had to visit a night market. The Shilin Market in Taiwan is a bustling night market renowned for its vibrant atmosphere and diverse array of street food. Visitors can savor delicious local delicacies, shop for trendy clothes and accessories, and immerse themselves in the vibrant energy of this iconic Taipei landmark. The market is open around 7 or 8pm and stays open until midnight. We caught just the tail-end of the evening, but the food we got was incredible. We went to Zhong Cheng Hao and pointed to a random dish on the menu and it was incredible!
Zhong Cheng Hao is located at No. 15-15, Dadong Rd, Shilin District, Taipei City, Taiwan 111 and is open from 4pm - 1am everyday
Start with a Hearty Breakfast
Taiwanese cuisine is renowned worldwide, and starting your day with a traditional breakfast is a must. One of the most popular dishes is a delicious bowl of soy milk accompanied by youtiao (a deep-fried dough stick) and savory Jianbing (a Chinese pancake). I ended up having breakfast at our hotel because the buffet was so incredible I could not say no. I also got a bubble tea, because you can’t go to Taiwan and not have a bubble tea.
Taipei 101
Taipei 101 stands tall and proud, an iconic landmark in the vibrant city of Taipei. As one of the tallest skyscrapers in the world, it offers visitors a captivating blend of modern architecture and traditional Taiwanese aesthetics. Its unique design, inspired by the traditional Chinese pagoda, symbolizes prosperity and good fortune. The observation deck on the 89th floor provides breathtaking panoramic views of the sprawling cityscape, showcasing the dynamic energy of Taipei. Inside, the mall at the base of the tower is a shopper's paradise, boasting a plethora of high-end international brands. Taipei 101 is not merely a towering structure; it represents the resilience, innovation, and sophistication of Taiwan, attracting both locals and tourists to marvel at its grandeur. This should absolutly be a stop on your trip.
After you go to the observation deck, I would recommend eating lunch in the food court. I know what your thinking, “Aline you want me to eat at a FOOD COURT?” but honestly I’ve never been more impressed by a food court in all my life!
Extra Time? Explore the Cultural Charm
Unfortuntaly that was all we had time to do, but if you are looking to get a bit more of the Taiwan culture, visit the iconic Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, a tribute to Taiwan's former president, where you can witness the changing of the guards and immerse yourself in the historical significance of the site. Nearby, you'll find the impressive National Palace Museum, housing an extensive collection of Chinese artifacts spanning thousands of years.
For those seeking a slice of tranquility, the serene Lungshan Temple in Taipei is a perfect spot to visit. This Buddhist temple is not only a place of worship but also a center for cultural events, making it an ideal spot to experience the local traditions.
