Experience the best of Southern Taiwan in just three days, with a carefully curated itinerary that takes you from Taipei to some of Taiwan’s most captivating destinations. For $1,095 per person, this private tour offers a seamless way to explore Kaohsiung, Kenting, and Tainan, including transportation, accommodations, most meals, and guided activities. It’s perfect if you want an efficient yet immersive snapshot of Taiwan’s southern charm without the stress of planning each detail yourself.
What we especially like about this tour is the thoughtfully designed itinerary that balances iconic sights with authentic local experiences—like riding a pedicab on Cijin Island or strolling through Tainan’s historic streets. Plus, the knowledgeable guides seem to make a real difference, offering clear explanations of cultural and historical sites, which elevates the experience beyond just sightseeing.
A possible consideration is that the itinerary is quite packed, leaving limited time at each stop, so slow explorers or those craving more leisure may find it a bit rushed. Still, for travelers eager to maximize their time and see a wide range of sights, this tour offers excellent value.
This experience suits travelers who love history, culture, and scenic coastal landscapes and appreciate guided tours that handle logistics. If you prefer to focus on soaking up the atmosphere without worrying about transportation or tickets, this trip hits the sweet spot.
Key Points
- Comprehensive itinerary covering major southern Taiwan highlights in just three days
- All logistics arranged, including transportation, entrance fees, and accommodations
- Expert guides provide insightful explanations, especially on cultural and historical sites
- Authentic experiences such as a pedicab ride on Cijin Island and visits to historic forts
- Perfect for time-conscious travelers wanting a hassle-free overview of Southern Taiwan
- Includes two nights’ hotel stay and most meals, offering good value for the price
A Detailed Look at the 3-Day Southern Taiwan Tour
The Ease of a Guided, All-Inclusive Experience
Traveling independently around Southern Taiwan can be rewarding but often involves a lot of planning—booking trains, sorting out entrance tickets, and navigating unfamiliar public transport. This tour simplifies that, offering a comprehensive package that handles all of these details. For $1,095, you get transportation, guided tours, accommodations, and some meals, making this a solid value for those wanting a stress-free trip.
The fact that it’s a private tour means your group moves at its own pace, and the guides are there to tailor the experience with their insights. Reviews highlight how guide knowledge makes a real difference—one reviewer mentioned that their guide explained Buddhism and Taoism so clearly, it added depth to the experience.
Day 1: From Taipei to Kaohsiung and the Coastal Charm of Cijin Island
Starting with a comfortable high-speed train ride from Taipei, this tour efficiently transports you to the bustling port city of Kaohsiung in about 90 minutes. It’s a smart way to avoid long drives and get straight into the action.
First stop is Fo Guang Shan, a massive monastery with a golden Buddha statue visible from miles away. Visitors often comment on the peaceful atmosphere, and the free entry makes it accessible for everyone. We loved the way the guide explained the significance of Buddhism in Taiwan, making the visit both spiritual and educational.
Next, you’ll visit Pier-2 Art Center, a transformed warehouse site turned lively art hub. This area embodies the city’s creative spirit, and wandering through the murals and installations offers a glimpse into modern Kaohsiung’s cultural pulse.
The highlight of the day is a ferry ride to Cijin Island, where a nostalgic pedicab tour takes you through Cijin Old Street. Here, you’ll see historic sites like the fortress, lighthouse, and the famed Cijin Tianhou Temple. The island is also famous for its seafood, and the tour includes tasting some street food—fry-ups, fresh fish, and other local treats that truly satisfy.
In the evening, Liuhe Night Market provides a lively setting to sample Kaohsiung’s street foods, from seafood congee to stinky tofu. The night market is a classic Taiwanese experience, bustling and full of local flavor.
Day 2: Exploring Kenting’s Coastal Wilderness
After breakfast, the tour heads south to Kenting National Park, Taiwan’s first national park and a haven for lovers of nature and water sports. We loved how the guide explained the park’s geological features and biodiversity, giving context to the stunning scenery.
Highlights include Maobitou, a rock formation that resembles a crouching cat—perfect for photos—and Eluanbi Lighthouse, built during the Qing Dynasty. The lighthouse’s history as one of Taiwan’s Eight Views during Japanese rule adds a touch of historical intrigue.
Longpan Park offers sweeping views of the Pacific, with coral limestone formations that showcase Taiwan’s geological history. It’s a great spot for a quick walk and some breathtaking photo opportunities.
The day wraps up in Hengchun Old Town, where well-preserved city walls and historic architecture transport you back in time. Visitors often comment on the charm of this small, ancient city and its peaceful vibe after the day’s more active sightseeing.
Day 3: Tainan’s Historic Heart and Return to Taipei
The final day takes you to Tainan, Taiwan’s oldest city and a treasure trove of history. The first stop is Fort Provintia, a Dutch-built fortress with layers of reconstruction reflecting Taiwan’s colonial past. Visitors describe it as iconic, and many appreciate how the guide’s explanations deepen understanding of its importance.
Next, Fort Zeelandia (also known as Anping Fort) reveals more Dutch influence and Taiwan’s strategic maritime history. Nearby, Anping Tree House is a quirky site where banyan trees grow around and through an old warehouse, creating an almost surreal scene that many travelers find fascinating.
After exploring Tainan’s historic sites, you’ll have some free time for lunch before returning to Taipei by high-speed rail—about a 2-hour trip. The convenience of the train makes the return journey quick, allowing you to reflect on your busy but rewarding three days.
Why This Tour Works Well
One of the best aspects of this tour is how it balances sightseeing with authentic experiences. From cultural landmarks to scenic coastal views, you get a well-rounded taste of Southern Taiwan. The guides’ knowledge, as highlighted by reviews, enhances the visits, making history and cultural practices clearer and more engaging.
On top of that, the logistics are handled smoothly—you don’t need to worry about train tickets or entrance lines. The accommodations are comfortable, and the included meals provide a taste of local cuisine without the hassle of searching for places on your own.
While the schedule is tight—covering a lot in just three days—this is perfect if you want a rundown rather than a leisurely pace. The small group size (private for your party) also means you can ask questions and receive personalized attention.
What We Think Could Be Better
A potential downside is the pace of the tour; for those who prefer more time at each site, it might feel a bit rushed. Also, since lunch and dinner are not included, you’ll need to budget extra time and money for meals, although this allows flexibility.
For travelers who want to focus more on relaxation or are interested in in-depth exploration, this might not be the best fit. However, if you’re eager to see the highlights efficiently, this tour delivers excellent value.
Who Should Consider This Tour
This tour is ideal for time-conscious travelers who want a guided, all-inclusive experience of Southern Taiwan’s top spots. It’s especially suited for those interested in history, culture, and coastal scenery, and who enjoy guided insights from knowledgeable guides. If you’re looking for a hassle-free way to see Taiwan’s south without the stress of organizing transport and tickets, this is a great choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but be prepared for some walking and standing. Comfortable shoes are recommended.
Are meals included in the price?
Breakfast is included, but lunch and dinner are not. You will need to budget for these meals separately.
How much walking is involved?
There is a small amount of walking at sites like Fort Provintia and Longpan Park, so comfortable footwear is advised.
Does the tour operate on specific days?
The tour can be booked in advance, with most travelers booking around 7 months ahead, but check availability for your preferred dates.
What is the group size?
It’s a private tour for your group, which allows for a more personalized experience.
Are entrance fees included?
Yes, all admission tickets and entrance fees listed in the itinerary are covered.
Can I customize the itinerary?
Since it’s a private tour, there may be some flexibility—discuss with your guide if you have specific interests or sites to prioritize.
To sum it up, this 3-day Southern Taiwan tour offers a well-rounded, engaging way to explore some of Taiwan’s most fascinating sights. Its combination of cultural, historical, and scenic highlights, paired with expert guides and seamless logistics, makes it a compelling option for those who want a structured but authentic experience. Whether you’re a history buff, a lover of coastal landscapes, or simply eager to see Taiwan’s south without the fuss, this tour will give you a memorable snapshot of Taiwan’s diverse charms.