Taipei City isn’t just a place to get a quick taste of Taiwanese culture—it’s a launchpad for full-day excursions that showcase the diverse landscapes and vibrant neighborhoods just beyond the city limits. Whether you’re eager to explore the nostalgic streets of Jiufen, marvel at the geological wonders of Yehliu, or relax in bubbling hot springs, these tours are designed to give you a deep dive into what makes Taiwan special. We’ve sifted through options that range from private tailored experiences to guided group adventures, each offering a unique way to see the highlights and hidden corners of northern Taiwan. If you want a flexible, personalized day with a private driver, or prefer a guided tour with all logistics handled, there’s something here for every travel style.
Some tours stand out for their intimacy and flexibility, like the Private Full-Day Northern Taiwan Tour by Car from Taipei, which offers custom itineraries and expert drivers. Others, like the Taipei: Yangmingshan & Beitou Full-Day Tour, excel with scenic hikes and hot springs. For travelers seeking a comprehensive day exploring multiple coastal and mountain highlights, the From Taipei: Full-Day Trip to Jiufen, Yehliu, Shifen & More provides a small-group, in-depth experience. And for those after exclusive memories in front of the camera, the VIP Photoshoot Tour promises professional photos at Taiwan’s most photogenic spots. Let’s explore each option to find your perfect fit.
1. Private Full-Day Northern Taiwan Tour by Car from Taipei
Travel at your own pace with a private driver, visiting northern Taiwan’s top sights like Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen Village, and Pingxi. This full-day tour offers the flexibility to customize your itinerary or choose from pre-made options, making it ideal for travelers who want a tailored experience. The tour lasts about 8 hours, and for around $120 per person, you get the comfort of your own vehicle and the guidance of a knowledgeable driver who shares insights into Taiwan’s culture and landscape.
What makes this tour stand out is its personalized approach. Popular stops include the Yehliu Geopark with its surreal rock formations, the charming Jiufen Old Street with its tea houses and street snacks, and the Shifen Waterfall—a powerful cascade perfect for photos. Many travelers praise guides like Allen H., who combine local expertise with a friendly attitude, helping avoid crowds and find secret spots. The flexibility means you can spend more time where you’re most interested, whether that’s exploring hidden alleyways or enjoying a local lunch.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want to customize their day and avoid rigid schedules, this private tour offers a relaxed pace with expert guidance. It’s especially suited for those who want a comfortable, flexible way to see Taiwan’s northern highlights.
2. Taipei: Yangmingshan & Beitou Full-Day Tour
For nature lovers and fans of thermal baths, the Yangmingshan & Beitou Full-Day Tour offers a scenic escape from Taipei’s hustle. This 8.5-hour guided trip provides a chance to marvel at Yangmingshan National Park’s volcanic landscapes and vibrant flora, as well as soak in the famous hot springs of Beitou. Starting at just $76 per person, the tour is an excellent value considering the included guided walks, a picnic lunch, and visits to historic sites like the Yangmingshuwu.
What sets this tour apart is its focus on Taiwan’s geothermal activity and botanic diversity. You’ll explore Qingshan Grasslands, where the open views are perfect for photos, and learn about the region’s volcanic past. The afternoon includes a relaxing stop at the Beitou Hot Spring Museum and the chance to dip into natural hot springs. Our review highlights guide Allan’s deep knowledge and engaging storytelling, which makes even the most technical geology interesting.
This tour is best suited for those who enjoy gentle hikes, scenic landscapes, and thermal baths. It’s a good choice if you want a leisurely day with plenty of photo opportunities and cultural insights, all with minimal hassle of planning.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a mix of scenic mountain views, relaxing hot springs, and cultural sites, all with the ease of a guided tour.
3. From Taipei: Full-Day Trip to Jiufen, Yehliu, Shifen & More
This comprehensive full-day trip packs multiple highlights into roughly 9 hours. Operating in a small group of no more than 8, it’s perfect for travelers who want to see a lot without feeling rushed. The itinerary includes visits to Yehliu Geopark for its dramatic rock formations, the Golden Waterfall, and the nostalgic streets of Jiufen Old Street. You’ll also explore Shifen Old Street, famous for its sky lanterns, and have time for street food, shopping, and even a traditional tea ceremony.
What makes this tour stand out is the variety—coastal erosion, mountain streets, and waterfalls all in one day. The tour emphasizes the geological forces shaping Taiwan’s landscape and includes scenic drives along the coast. Guests rave about the well-organized nature of the trip, the small group size, and the knowledgeable driver who provides insightful commentary along the way.
This option is best for travelers who want a broad overview and don’t mind a busy day. It offers excellent value at $94 per person, especially considering the number of sites covered.
Bottom Line: Perfect if you want a quick but diverse introduction to Taiwan’s coastal and mountain scenery with a small-group experience.
4. Full-Day Jeddah Discover the Heart of the Red Sea
Note: This tour is not in Taipei but included here for comparison—ideal for travelers combining destinations or exploring via different regions. It covers Jeddah’s highlights, including Al-Balad, the Floating Mosque, King Fahd Fountain, and the Corniche, offering a rich mix of history and modern scenery. The tour also features tasting Arabian dishes like mandi and Jareesh, and visiting the Sculpture Museum.
While not in Taipei, this experience illustrates the value of a well-rounded full-day city tour—covering landmarks, local cuisine, and cultural insights. With prices at $150 per person and a focus on history and architecture, it’s a good option for those interested in the Red Sea region’s unique blend of old and new.
Bottom Line: A comprehensive city exploration for anyone interested in the historic and contemporary sides of Jeddah.
$150 per person
5. Taiwan Taipei: Full-day VIP Photoshoot Taiwan Photographer
For travelers who want more than sightseeing, the VIP Photoshoot offers professional images at Taiwan’s most picturesque locations. Costing $845 for a group of up to five, it includes a full 8-hour day with a talented photographer using high-end gear like the Sony A7M4. You’ll visit iconic spots tailored to your style, with all photos professionally edited and delivered within a week.
What makes this tour unique is its focus on creating lasting memories through high-quality images. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, it captures authentic moments in scenic settings. The guide also provides helpful tips for making the most of your shoot, including visual storytelling, fashion advice, and translation services if needed.
This experience is best suited for those seeking personalized mementos or wanting to celebrate a special occasion with a professional touch. It’s a premium option, but one that guarantees stunning photos to remember your trip.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want a bespoke, high-quality photography experience that captures their Taiwan adventure in style.
$845 per group up to 5
How to Choose the Right Full-Day Tour in Taipei
When selecting a tour, consider your budget, interests, and travel style. If you prefer the comfort and flexibility of a private vehicle, the Private Full-Day Northern Taiwan Tour is hard to beat. For scenic walks, hot springs, and nature, the Yangmingshan & Beitou Tour offers a relaxing day with expert guidance. Want to see multiple coastal spots and enjoy local snacks? The small-group trip covers everything efficiently.
If capturing memories professionally is your goal, the VIP Photoshoot provides high-quality images but at a higher price point. Consider your fitness level and interests—mountain hikes, cultural visits, or just relaxing hot springs—when choosing.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak seasons like spring and autumn, when these tours fill quickly. Also, check availability and start times to align your plans.
Final Thoughts
Taipei’s full-day tours offer a variety of ways to experience Taiwan’s landscapes, culture, and history—whether through private adventures, guided group trips, or professional photography sessions. For those wanting a tailored experience, the Private Full-Day Northern Taiwan Tour is excellent. Nature lovers should consider the Yangmingshan & Beitou, while travelers short on time will appreciate the comprehensive small-group trip.
No matter your preference, booking early and choosing a tour that aligns with your interests will make your Taipei experience more memorable. Each of these options presents a distinct way to see the beauty and diversity of northern Taiwan—so pick one that excites you and get ready for a fantastic day out.