Taiwan
Private
12 days from £8,965
Private Tour
Taipei to Taipei – 12 Days
Join the Taiwan Grand Circle Journey, a 12-day journey around the country’s top cities, landscapes and cultural sites. Start in Taipei, where you’ll visit temples, museums and famous markets. Go to Jiufen’s mountain streets, Tainan’s historic temples and walk in Alishan’s forests. Take trains, try local food and enjoy each region’s beauty. You’ll also take a peaceful boat ride on Sun Moon Lake and discover Taroko Gorge’s dramatic cliffs. This tour is for travellers who want to experience both Taiwan’s natural beauty and its deep culture in one complete trip.
Along the way, enjoy meaningful experiences like a boat tour on Sun Moon Lake, cable car rides with mountain views, visits to cultural villages and quiet walks in national parks. Each place is chosen to help you connect with Taiwan’s people, stories and nature. Whether it’s listening to local music at the Ten Drum Village or walking across a marble bridge in Taroko, every day adds something new. Your trip ends back in Taipei, where tradition and modern life meet. The Taiwan Grand Circle is more than a holiday – it’s a full experience of what makes this island so special.
CULTURAL HIGHLIGHTS OF TAIPEI: Start your trip with a deep dive into Taipei. The city centre offers convenient access to major attractions, making it easy to explore. Visit the National Palace Museum, Longshan Temple—one of Taipei’s most important and historic sites—beautiful temples, and buzzing night markets. Try street food from a variety of food stalls offering local specialties and learn about Taiwan’s past and present. Taipei is full of energy, culture and great food – a perfect start to your island adventure.
SCENIC BEAUTY OF SUN MOON LAKE: Take a peaceful boat ride on Sun Moon Lake, surrounded by green mountains and quiet forests. Learn about the local Indigenous culture, visit a monastery and enjoy lake views from a cable car. It’s a relaxing day full of calm moments and beautiful sights in the heart of Taiwan’s countryside.
NATURAL WONDERS OF TAROKO GORGE: Walk through stunning Taroko Gorge, famous for its marble cliffs, deep valleys and waterfalls. See the Marble Bridge, visit a small mountain shrine and enjoy forest walks. Taroko is a place of natural beauty where you can slow down, take photos and enjoy Taiwan’s wild side.
HISTORIC TREASURES OF TAINAN: Step into Taiwan’s history in Tainan, the island’s oldest city. Visit ancient shrines, the 17th-century Confucian Temple and the old Dutch Chihkan Towers. Walk quiet streets lined with temples then enjoy the city’s famous night markets. Tainan is a place where the past is present.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Embark on a captivating 12-day Taiwan Grand Circle Journey, covering Taiwan's diverse regions—from Taipei’s urban sprawl to the serene Sun Moon Lake, ancient Tainan, and the majestic Taroko Gorge. Perfect for adventurers seeking comprehensive cultural, historical, and natural experiences across Taiwan. This itinerary features many of the most visited destinations in the country.
Arrive in Taipei from Tokyo in the evening and a driver will meet you and take you to a top luxury hotel in the city. Check in and relax and settle in. The evening is free for rest and recovery after your flight. You might have a quiet dinner or a short walk around. This first night sets the tone for the exciting days ahead as you start to experience Taiwan’s culture, cities and natural beauty on this multi-centre journey with comfort, variety and interesting experiences.
Mandarin Oriental, Taipei
Located in the heart of Taipei's bustling city centre, the Mandarin Oriental exudes luxury and sophistication in every detail of its architecture and decor. Designed with a blend of traditional Taiwanese elements and contemporary elegance, the hotel offers a unique ambiance that seamlessly combines cultural heritage with modern comforts. From the moment guests step into the grand lobby adorned with intricate artwork and plush furnishings, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of refined opulence.
Start the day with a full international breakfast and then explore the best of Taipei. Your guide will take you to the famous National Palace Museum, one of the main sights in the city and home to ancient Chinese treasures. Then stroll through Dihua Old Street and visit Lungshan Temple, a must-visit historical and cultural landmark among Taipei's main sights. These places show Taiwan’s deep history and spiritual traditions. In the evening, have a fresh seafood dinner. If you still have energy, explore Taipei’s nightlife – take in the views from Taipei 101'’s observatory or mingle with locals at the lively Raohe Street Night Market.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Leave the city for a day trip to Jiufen, a hillside village with narrow lanes and old-world charm. After exploring its tea houses and local shops, visit the beautiful rock formations at Yehliu Geopark, the colonial Fort Santo Domingo and Tamsui Fisherman’s Wharf. You’ll have time to watch the sunset before heading back into Taipei. The day ends at Shilin Night Market, one of the city’s busiest, where you’ll try local snacks. It’s a fun and relaxed way to experience Taipei’s evening food scene and connect with the local culture.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start the day with a short visit to Yingge, a small town famous for its ceramics. Visit the Ceramics Museum and explore the old street with pottery shops and cafes. After lunch at a local cafe, take the high-speed train to Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city. On arrival, you’ll be taken to your hotel and can relax or take a short evening walk. The city’s quiet lanes, temples and heritage buildings give you a taste of old Taiwan. Tonight is free for you to unwind before the next day’s full day of Tainan’s history.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Silks Place Tainan
Explore Tainan’s highlights starting with an old shrine and the Confucian Temple, one of the oldest in Taiwan. Later visit the Ten Drum Culture Village, a creative space in a former sugar mill that blends history and performance. Your guide will then take you to the famous Chihkan Towers, used by the Dutch in the 1600s. These places bring Tainan’s long history to life. End the day with dinner at a traditional teahouse where you can try Taiwanese dishes in a peaceful old-style setting before returning to your hotel for the night.
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning drive to Chiayi and board the Alishan Forest Railway, a scenic train ride through mountain villages and forested hills. The train is a slow and peaceful way to see the countryside as you head into the mountains. On arrival at Alishan National Park, check in to your hotel and have a relaxing afternoon walk through the forest trails. Alishan is famous for its fresh air, ancient trees and quiet beauty. Spend the evening surrounded by nature, enjoying the cooler mountain climate and the calm atmosphere of this special place.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Alishan House
After breakfast drive through Taiwan’s green hills and scenic roads to Sun Moon Lake, one of the country’s most beautiful spots. Along the way enjoy the peaceful countryside views and small villages. Sun Moon Lake sits high in the mountains and has been home to Indigenous communities for centuries. On arrival check in to your hotel by the lake and relax. In the evening have a quiet dinner with views of the water and mountains. This is the perfect place to slow down and take in the natural beauty of Taiwan’s central highlands.
Meals Included: Breakfast
The Lalu
Start the day with a boat ride across the calm waters of Sun Moon Lake. On a clear day the sunlight sparkles on the surface, creating a peaceful and stunning view. Later take a scenic cable car ride for a bird’s-eye view of the forested mountains. Visit the Formosan Aboriginal Culture Village to learn about local traditions, crafts and dances. In the afternoon explore one of Taiwan’s largest monasteries where the peaceful setting invites quiet reflection. The day ends back at the hotel with a relaxing evening surrounded by nature.
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast leave the lake and drive through two beautiful national forests—Aowanda and Hehuanshan. The mountain roads are full of dramatic views and high-altitude landscapes. After four hours arrive at Taroko, famous for its marble cliffs, deep gorges and river valleys. Check into the luxury Silks Hotel and enjoy the views of the park. Spend the evening relaxing or taking in the surroundings from your room. Dinner is served at the hotel, preparing you for a day of exploring one of Taiwan’s most famous natural wonders.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Silks Place Taroko
Today is dedicated to discovering the beauty of Taroko Gorge. Visit waterfalls, cross the Marble Bridge, and stop by a hillside shrine that honours local history. Walk along forest trails, past temples and small villages where everyday life blends with stunning nature. The landscape is dramatic yet peaceful with towering cliffs and rushing rivers. Take your time to enjoy the scenery and take photos along the way. In the evening return to the hotel for dinner and a relaxing evening after a day in one of Taiwan’s most scenic regions.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a relaxing morning at the hotel or take one last stroll through the nearby forests. After lunch at a local restaurant start your drive back to Taipei. The five-hour journey passes through beautiful mountain scenery and small towns. Arrive in the capital by late afternoon or early evening. Check into your hotel and spend the rest of the evening as you wish—perhaps a final walk through Taipei’s lively streets or simply resting in comfort before your departure the next day.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Mandarin Oriental, Taipei
Rosewood Taipei
Located in the heart of Taipei's bustling city centre, the Mandarin Oriental exudes luxury and sophistication in every detail of its architecture and decor. Designed with a blend of traditional Taiwanese elements and contemporary elegance, the hotel offers a unique ambiance that seamlessly combines cultural heritage with modern comforts. From the moment guests step into the grand lobby adorned with intricate artwork and plush furnishings, they are enveloped in an atmosphere of refined opulence.
Nestled in the vibrant heart of Taipei, Rosewood Taipei stands as a pinnacle of luxury and sophistication. Its architecture seamlessly blends modern elegance with timeless tradition, boasting sleek lines and contemporary design elements harmoniously intertwined with classic Taiwanese motifs. The exterior facade, with its sleek glass panels and clean lines, presents a striking silhouette against the city skyline, while the interior exudes warmth and opulence, featuring rich textures, plush furnishings, and curated artwork that reflect the cultural heritage of Taiwan.
After a final breakfast at the Mandarin Oriental it’s time to say goodbye to Taiwan. A private transfer will take you to the international airport for your flight back to Tokyo. As you leave take with you the memories of ancient temples, mountain trails, busy night markets and peaceful lakes. This 12-day journey through Taiwan’s heritage sites and highland scenery has given you a mix of culture, comfort and discovery—an experience that stays with you long after you’ve returned home.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Inspired by Taiwan’s rich tapestry of modern urban landscapes, ancient traditions, and breathtaking natural beauty, we designed the Taiwan Grand Circle: A 12-Day Island Odyssey to help travelers fully explore Taiwan and showcase the island’s diverse attractions.
This tour was motivated by the desire to offer travellers a comprehensive exploration of Taiwan, from the bustling streets of Taipei to the serene landscapes of Alishan and the dramatic scenery of Taroko Gorge.
We aimed to create an itinerary that blends cultural immersion with natural wonders, making it an ideal expedition for those interested in activities, nature, culture, and wildlife.
YOUR TRIP DESIGN, PACE & FLEXIBILITY: This privately operated Taiwan grand circle is designed to show the island’s cultural “north–south” contrasts and its headline landscapes without the trip feeling like a checklist. The most rewarding refinements are often about timing: Taipei’s temples, markets and museums are at their best in quieter windows; Taroko is most elegant early, before the gorge becomes busy; Alishan is transformed by a slower evening and a sunrise option if you enjoy mountain atmosphere. If you prefer a more indulgent rhythm, an extra night in Taipei or by Sun Moon Lake usually elevates the whole flow.
PRIVATE GUIDES, DRIVERS & ON-THE-GROUND SUPPORT: Taiwan excels when the right expertise is introduced with a light touch. In Taipei and Tainan, a cultural host can bring real depth to the National Palace Museum, historic quarters and temple traditions, while keeping the tone conversational rather than “guided”. For the circle itself, we manage the choice between private vehicle and rail strategically—high-speed rail for elegance, a private car where it unlocks scenic stops and removes friction. Should Taroko access be affected by weather or safety controls, alternatives are introduced seamlessly, protecting the day’s quality.
ACCOMMODATION STANDARDS & MEAL BASIS: The tour is delivered to a premium comfort standard, with hotels chosen for location, quiet rooms and service—particularly important in Taipei and at the lake. In areas such as Alishan, the best stays can be limited; securing the right room category early often makes the difference between “adequate” and truly enjoyable. Dining is one of Taiwan’s great pleasures, and it can be curated as subtly as you wish: night markets with expert recommendations, refined Taiwanese cuisine in calm settings, and selective reservations where they genuinely add to the experience. Dietary preferences are usually straightforward with advance planning.
SEASONALITY, CONDITIONS & PRACTICAL COMFORT: Taiwan’s drama comes with real seasonality. Taroko and mountain areas can be affected by typhoons, heavy rain and occasional access restrictions; we plan with intelligent buffers and keep the itinerary flexible enough to pivot without disappointment. Alishan can be cooler and misty, while cities remain warmer and humid—layers and comfortable footwear are the key to feeling polished rather than “prepared”. Walking is generally light to moderate, but some scenic paths and temple precincts involve steps and uneven surfaces. Comprehensive travel insurance remains essential.
COSTING, PAYMENTS, CHANGES & CANCELLATIONS: The cost reflects premium hotels, private handling, and expert-led days that prioritise calm timing and high-quality access rather than rushing. The most common price variables are room categories (especially lake-facing rooms and the best Alishan inventory), transport style (rail-first versus private vehicle throughout), and any enhancements such as a hot-spring interlude, upgraded rail seating, or a deeper culinary programme. Once key services are confirmed, changes can affect limited-inventory hotels and transport tickets; any implications are explained clearly before adjustments are actioned, with terms and deadlines set out transparently.
Prices From
Tour: Taiwan Grand Circle Journey
Tour reference: TAIW101/2026
Price: Indicative price based on top-end services; final cost varies by season, availability, and your chosen inclusions.
Tour dates: Travel Any day (subject to availability)
Deposit to confirm: £150 per person
Prices From
Tour: Taiwan Grand Circle Journey
Tour reference: TAIW101/2027
Price: Indicative price based on top-end services; final cost varies by season, availability, and your chosen inclusions.
Tour dates: Travel Any day (subject to availability)
Deposit to confirm: £150 per person
Explore the vibrant art scenes of Beijing, Shenzhen, and Taipei on this 10-day cultural tour. Visit top museums, creative districts, and contemporary galleries. From the National Palace Museum to MOCA Taipei, discover how tradition and innovation shape China and Taiwan’s dynamic art landscape.
People & Culture
China, Taiwan
PRIVATE
Enjoy premium accommodations with stays at select luxury hotel properties throughout your journey. Explore Taiwan’s cultural and natural splendour on this 11-days culinary and scenic journey. From Taipei’s bustling markets and cooking classes to the Sun Moon Lake and Taroko Gorge, and Tainan’s rich history, experience the best of Taiwan.
93,21
Taiwan
PRIVATE
11 days
The Taiwan Family Adventure is a 9-day journey full of fun, learning, and nature. From Taipei to Taroko National Park, Sun Moon Lake, and Kaohsiung, enjoy hiking trails, tea tasting, sky lanterns, and hands-on cultural activities. It’s the perfect way to explore Taiwan with kids and create lasting memories.
23,72
Taiwan
PRIVATE
9 days
Join the Taiwan Heritage and Nature Explorer, a 11-day tour from Taipei to Taroko Gorge and Tainan. Discover Taiwan’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and culinary delights in one unforgettable trip. Enjoy authentic Taiwanese cuisine, reflecting a fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and Austronesian influences, and take part in cultural activities that showcase Taiwan's vibrant heritage.
92,21
Taiwan
PRIVATE
11 days
Grid View
List View
Explore the vibrant art scenes of Beijing, Shenzhen, and Taipei on this 10-day cultural tour. Visit top museums, creative districts, and contemporary galleries. From the National Palace Museum to MOCA Taipei, discover how tradition and innovation shape China and Taiwan’s dynamic art landscape.
People & Culture
China, Taiwan
PRIVATE
Tailor-made
£7,450
Without FlightsGrid View
List View
Explore the vibrant art scenes of Beijing, Shenzhen, and Taipei on this 10-day cultural tour. Visit top museums, creative districts, and contemporary galleries. From the National Palace Museum to MOCA Taipei, discover how tradition and innovation shape China and Taiwan’s dynamic art landscape.
People & Culture
China, Taiwan
PRIVATE
Tailor-made
£7,450
Without Flights
Enjoy premium accommodations with stays at select luxury hotel properties throughout your journey. Explore Taiwan’s cultural and natural splendour on this 11-days culinary and scenic journey. From Taipei’s bustling markets and cooking classes to the Sun Moon Lake and Taroko Gorge, and Tainan’s rich history, experience the best of Taiwan.
Tailor-made
Without Flights
11 days
The Taiwan Family Adventure is a 9-day journey full of fun, learning, and nature. From Taipei to Taroko National Park, Sun Moon Lake, and Kaohsiung, enjoy hiking trails, tea tasting, sky lanterns, and hands-on cultural activities. It’s the perfect way to explore Taiwan with kids and create lasting memories.
Biking/Cycling, People & Culture
Taiwan
PRIVATE
9 days
Tailor-made
Without Flights
9 days
Join the Taiwan Heritage and Nature Explorer, a 11-day tour from Taipei to Taroko Gorge and Tainan. Discover Taiwan’s rich culture, breathtaking landscapes, and culinary delights in one unforgettable trip. Enjoy authentic Taiwanese cuisine, reflecting a fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and Austronesian influences, and take part in cultural activities that showcase Taiwan's vibrant heritage.
Tailor-made
Without Flights
11 days
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Your entire holiday is designed around your personal preferences
Travel at your own pace with full itinerary flexibility
Choose from handpicked, luxury hotels & resorts across Asia
Enjoy seamless logistics, private transfers, and 24/7 assistance
Our package holiday team has decades of experience in luxury Asia travel
Receive first-hand advice from specialists who know each destination intimately
Gain access to hidden gems and authentic local experiences
Our aim is to stay committed to responsible travel in Asia
We partner with eco-conscious providers
Itineraries include experiences that preserve Asia’s cultural and natural heritage
Travel with complete confidence under full ATOL protection
Fully bonded and financially protected for your peace of mind
Established in 2014
