Taiwan’s tour scene delivers exactly what smart travelers need – efficient ways to experience both city buzz and rural charm. The best options fall into two categories: private custom tours that let you set the pace, and well-organized group excursions that maximize value.
I’m especially fond of the Keelung shore tours for their blend of harbor views and street food adventures. The East Taiwan multi-day trips stand out too, taking you through dramatic coastlines and indigenous villages while avoiding tourist traps.
These tours typically include all the essentials – transport, meals, and authentic cultural stops – without unnecessary frills. For the most rewarding Taiwan experience, check out our carefully selected top tours below.
Good To Know
- Keelung Shore Excursions offer a highly-rated 6-hour private tour starting at $149 per person with a 93% traveler recommendation rate.
- Private 7-day tours in East Taiwan provide a comprehensive cultural experience at $3,390 per person with a perfect 5-star rating.
- Xiangshan Hiking & Classic Taipei Culture Tour offers a 5.0-star rated full-day excursion from $175 per person available from 2024 to 2026.
- Jiufen Old Street & Pingxi Sky Lantern Tour is a popular full-day excursion with an average 4.9-star rating from 97% of travelers.
- Shared Shore Excursions in Taipei provide a highly-rated “Best of Taipei Ultimate One Day Tour” starting from $189 per person.
Keelung Shore Excursion Private Custom Taipei 6-Hour Tour English-Speaking Guide
This private 6-hour shore excursion from Keelung port offers travelers a comprehensive introduction to the highlights of Taipei.
With a 93% traveler recommendation and 15 positive reviews, this tour is ideal for first-time visitors seeking a customizable itinerary.
Pickup and drop-off at the Keelung port ensure a timely return to your cruise ship.
The tour includes an air-conditioned private vehicle, an English-speaking driver guide, and travel insurance.
While food, drinks, and personal expenses are excluded, the moderate walking involved makes the tour accessible for most visitors.
Travelers should remember to bring cash, comfortable shoes, and weather-appropriate gear to ensure a seamless experience.
Throughout the tour, the knowledgeable guide will provide insider knowledge and personalized experiences at major attractions, such as the iconic Taipei 101 observatory.
Positive reviews highlight the guides’ expertise and the memorable experiences at various sites.
The tour starts from $149.00 per person, with a lowest price guarantee and flexible cancellation policy.
Read our full review: Keelung Shore Excursion Private Custom Taipei 6-Hour Tour English-Speaking Guide Review
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Private 7 Day Tour in East Taiwan
Voyager In Taiwan offers a private 7-day tour that explores the captivating landscapes and cultural treasures of East Taiwan. Priced at $3,390 per person, this non-refundable tour includes private transportation, fuel surcharge, parking fees, and all meals. Guests can choose a convenient pickup point with a start time of 9:00 am.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is stroller and infant seat-friendly, allowing most travelers to participate. With a perfect 5-star rating from 2 reviews, this tour promises an authentic and immersive experience in East Taiwan.
Highlights may include visiting scenic destinations, engaging with local communities, and savoring regional cuisine. Voyager In Taiwan’s attention to detail and commitment to exceptional service make this private 7-day tour an enticing option for travelers seeking to discover the lesser-known gems of East Taiwan.
The tour’s inclusions and positive reviews suggest a well-organized and enjoyable adventure awaits those who embark on this journey.
Read our full review: Private 7 Day Tour in East Taiwan Review
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Keelung Shore Excursion: Xiangshan Hiking & Classic Taipei Culture Private Tour
With an impressive 5.0 rating from 9 reviews, the Keelung Shore Excursion: Xiangshan Hiking & Classic Taipei Culture Private Tour offers travelers an opportunity to explore the natural beauty and cultural richness of Taiwan.
Priced from $175 per person, this private tour provides a comprehensive experience, including private transportation, a knowledgeable driver/guide, and admission to the National Palace Museum.
The tour is available from February 2024 through February 2026, with daily departures between 8 AM and 11 AM. Participants will be picked up from the Port of Keelung and returned to the same location at the end of the tour.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate. Visitors are advised to wear comfortable walking shoes and pack appropriate attire for the season. Travelers must provide passport details at the time of booking.
This shore excursion offers a perfect blend of natural exploration and culture, making it an excellent choice for those seeking to make the most of their time in Taiwan.
Read our full review: Keelung Shore Excursion: Xiangshan Hiking & Classic Taipei Culture Private Tour Review
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Keelung Shore Excursion: Jiufen Old Street & Pingxi Sky Lantern Private Tour
Nestled along the northeastern coast of Taiwan, the Keelung Shore Excursion: Jiufen Old Street & Pingxi Sky Lantern Private Tour offers visitors a captivating blend of culture and natural exploration.
This private, full-day shore excursion departs from the Keelung Cruise Port, taking guests to the picturesque towns of Jiufen and Pingxi. Travelers can expect to visit the iconic Jiufen Old Street, explore the stunning Golden Waterfall and Shifen Waterfall, and participate in the traditional tiandeng (sky lantern) ritual.
With an average rating of 4.9 stars from 97% of travelers, this tour is a recommended highlight for those seeking an authentic Taiwanese experience. The tour includes transportation, guide services, and sky lantern fees, while guests are responsible for their own meals, drinks, and personal expenses.
Moderate walking is involved, making the tour suitable for families. Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and flexibility in tour pacing, though some note the stair climbing in Jiufen as a workout.
Read our full review: Keelung Shore Excursion: Jiufen Old Street & Pingxi Sky Lantern Private Tour Review
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For those seeking a comprehensive exploration of Taipei’s top attractions, the Shared Shore Excursion – Best of Taipei Ultimate One Day Tour From Keelung Shore is a must-consider option.
Priced from $189 per person, this 6-hour tour provides pickup and drop-off at the Keelung Cruise Port, as well as entrance to the stunning Yehliu Geopark. Accompanied by a professional, English-speaking driver guide, guests will experience the city’s natural wonders and seafood delights in a seamless and efficient manner.
The tour includes transportation via air-conditioned private vehicle, travel insurance, and all necessary fees. While food and drinks aren’t specified, the focus on Taipei’s culinary scene suggests a delectable seafood experience.
With a 5.0 rating based on 3 reviews, this shore excursion offers a well-rounded introduction to the best of Taipei. Guests are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring cash, and prepare for moderate walking.
Flexible cancellation and booking policies make this tour an attractive choice for cruise passengers docking in Keelung.
Read our full review: Shared Shore Excursion – Best of Taipei Ultimate One Day Tour From Keelung Shore Review
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Keelung Shore Excursion: Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, Houton Cat Village Private Tour
This private shore excursion in Northern Taiwan offers a comprehensive exploration of the region’s unique history and natural wonders. Highly recommended by travelers, the tour showcases the must-see sights, including the geological marvels of Yehliu Geopark, the historic Jiufen Old Street, the charming Houtong Cat Village, and the lively Miaokou Night Market.
Visitors will marvel at the Queens Head and Golden Waterfall formations in Yehliu, then enjoy the gold mining heritage and wartime significance of Jiufen.
The tour also includes a visit to the former coal mining village of Houtong, now transformed into a sanctuary for adorable feline residents. The experience is capped off with a vibrant nighttime exploration of the Miaokou Night Market, where delectable local seafood and other delicacies can be savored.
Offering hassle-free transportation, knowledgeable guides, and inclusive entrance fees, this private tour provides an efficient and enriching way to discover the highlights of Northern Taiwan from the Keelung cruise port.
Read our full review: Keelung Shore Excursion: Yehliu Geopark, Jiufen, Houton Cat Village Private Tour Review
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Departing from the Keelung cruise port, this shared shore excursion offers travelers an immersive journey through the picturesque villages of Jiufen and Pingxi.
The tour begins with hotel pickup within Taipei City, followed by transport in an air-conditioned private vehicle. Along the way, a Chinese/English-speaking driver guide provides insightful commentary about the region’s history and cultural heritage.
In Jiufen, guests can explore the charming old streets, sample local delicacies, and admire the stunning coastal views.
The next stop is Pingxi, known for its vibrant sky lantern festival. Visitors will have the opportunity to release their own lantern, symbolizing their hopes and dreams.
The tour also includes entrance tickets and travel insurance for each guest.
With a 5.0 rating based on 4 reviews, this excursion presents an excellent value at $189.00 per person.
Flexibility is ensured with the option to reserve now and pay later.
Whether seeking culture or Instagram-worthy moments, this shared shore tour delivers an unforgettable experience in Taiwan.
Read our full review: Shared Shore Excursion – Jiufen & Pingxi Sky Lantern Day Tour From Keelung Shore Review
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Keelung Shore Excursion: Yangmingshan Hot Spring and Wild Vegetable Cuisine Tour
Escape the bustling cruise port and explore the natural wonders of Yangmingshan National Park on this private shore excursion. The customizable itinerary allows you to explore highlights like the serene Bamboo Lake, scenic Dalingzhi Ranch, or rejuvenating Beitou Hot Springs.
Discover Taiwan’s rich natural beauty while savoring a locally-sourced wild vegetable cuisine lunch and dinner.
This all-inclusive tour covers private transportation, insurance, fees, and admissions. The experience starts with pickup at the Keelung Cruise Port and ends back at the meeting point.
While not wheelchair accessible, infant seats are available. However, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions.
Participants must provide travel insurance details at booking, as required by local regulations.
With a 5.0 rating from 4 reviews, this Yangmingshan shore excursion is the perfect way to learn about Taiwan’s stunning landscapes and culinary delights.
Read our full review: Keelung Shore Excursion: Yangmingshan Hot Spring and Wild Vegetable Cuisine Tour Review
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Keelung Shore Excursion Private Custom Taipei 8-Hour Tour English-Speaking Guide
A popular private shore excursion for first-time Taipei visitors, this 8-hour custom tour offers an immersive experience exploring the city’s top attractions.
With a 95% traveler recommendation from 41 reviews, the tour is an ideal way to see the highlights. Guests are picked up stress-free from the Keelung Port and can customize their itinerary to visit sites like Taipei 101, Longshan Temple, Beitou Hot Springs, and Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall.
An English-speaking driver guide provides insights, and transportation is via air-conditioned private vehicle. The tour includes travel insurance, while food, drinks, and personal expenses are excluded.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and personalized experiences, though some note language barriers. To make the most of the tour, guests should bring comfortable shoes, an umbrella, and minimal luggage.
Read our full review: Keelung Shore Excursion Private Custom Taipei 8-Hour Tour English-Speaking Guide Review
Book now: Check availability
The Sum Up
Taiwan offers a diverse range of tours that cater to various interests. From private customized tours in Taipei to excursions exploring the stunning east coast, visitors can discover the island’s natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and unique local experiences. Whether you’re seeking a shore excursion or a multi-day adventure, Taiwan’s tour options provide an excellent way to fully take in the wonders of this captivating destination.