Things To Do
in Tainan

Tainan, Taiwan, is a city steeped in history and culture, renowned for its rich heritage as the oldest city in Taiwan. Visitors can explore ancient temples, colonial buildings, and vibrant night markets that showcase the city's unique blend of old and new. Famous for its culinary scene, Tainan offers an array of mouth-watering local dishes that reflect the region's agricultural bounty.

The city's warm and welcoming atmosphere makes it a perfect destination for those seeking authentic Taiwanese experiences.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to the Chihkan Tower, a historic site that offers beautiful views of the city. Follow this with a stroll through the nearby Confucius Temple, which is surrounded by serene gardens.

afternoon
:

Head to the Anping District to explore Fort Zeelandia and then enjoy a leisurely lunch at a local seafood restaurant. Visit the Anping Tree House, an old warehouse overtaken by banyan trees.

evening
:

Wrap up your day at the Tainan Night Market, where you can sample local street food and shop for unique souvenirs.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Begin your day at the National Museum of Taiwan Literature, then head to the nearby Tainan Flower Night Market for brunch. Explore the artistic atmosphere and grab some local snacks.

afternoon
:

Visit the Koxinga Shrine and enjoy some quiet time in the nearby park. Take a bike ride along the coastal paths of Tainan to enjoy the scenery.

evening
:

Finish your day by visiting a local teahouse to enjoy some traditional Taiwanese tea and desserts while taking in the evening ambiance.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Bowl of noodles$2
🥟Dumpling dish$3
🍵Cup of tea$1
💧Bottle of water$0.50
🍔Fast food meal$5

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural and historical heritage.
  • Delicious and diverse food options.
  • Friendly locals and welcoming atmosphere.
  • Hot and humid summers may be uncomfortable.
  • Limited English signage in some areas.
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "謝謝" - Thank you
  • "請問廁所在哪裡?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "我不會說中文" - I do not speak Chinese
  • "幫我一下" - Please help me

Places to Visit in Tainan

Visit one of these nice places.

Chihkan Tower

An iconic symbol of Tainan, offering stunning views and beautiful architecture.

Anping Fort

A historical site with picturesque ruins and scenic views of the surrounding area.

Confucius Temple

A serene location featuring traditional Taiwanese architecture and lovely gardens.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tainan

Tainan is a gastronomic paradise, famous for its rich flavors and unique culinary traditions that make it a must-visit for food lovers.

Tainan Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Danzai Noodles

A flavorful noodle dish served in a rich broth topped with minced pork.

Must-Try!

Oyster Omelette

A popular dish made with fresh oysters, eggs, and a starchy batter, served with a sweet sauce.

Milkfish Soup

A light and savory soup made with fresh milkfish, often served with rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tainan Night Market

A bustling night market offering a variety of local street foods and snacks.

Anping Old Street

Known for its seafood delicacies and traditional snacks, perfect for sampling local flavors.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tainan has a tropical climate, characterized by hot summers and mild winters. Summer (June to August) sees temperatures averaging around 30°C (86°F) and high humidity levels. Autumn (September to November) is cooler and drier, with pleasant temperatures. Winter (December to February) is mild, with temperatures ranging from 10°C to 20°C (50°F to 68°F), while spring (March to May) brings warmer weather and blooming flowers.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Always show respect to older individuals; it's common to greet them first.

Removing Shoes

In homes and some traditional establishments, it's customary to remove shoes before entering.

Politeness in Conversation

Use polite language and greetings; maintaining a friendly demeanor is highly valued.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tainan is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. It's advisable to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. Keep your belongings secure and avoid displaying valuables. Emergency services are available, and locals are often willing to assist if you need help.

Tipping in Tainan

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Tainan, but rounding up the bill is appreciated in restaurants.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but credit cards are also used in many establishments; mobile payments are popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it an ideal time for outdoor activities.

Summer

Hot and humid; stay hydrated and plan indoor activities during the hottest parts of the day.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and clear skies create perfect conditions for sightseeing and outdoor dining.

Winter

Mild weather with occasional rain; a great time for exploring cultural sites and enjoying warm dishes.

Nightlife Guide

Tainan at Night

Tainan's nightlife is a mix of vibrant night markets, cozy bars, and cultural performances. The city offers a variety of entertainment options, including karaoke, live music, and cultural shows. Local night markets come alive after dark, filled with street food vendors, games, and shopping opportunities. For a more laid-back experience, visitors can enjoy a drink at one of the many tea houses or cafes that stay open late.

Hiking in Tainan

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Huangxi Hiking Trail

A scenic trail that provides beautiful views of the surrounding landscape and is suitable for hikers of all levels.

Yuanli Mountain Trail

A moderate hiking trail offering a mix of nature and historical sites, with various attractions along the route.

Airports

How to reach Tainan by plane.

Tainan Airport

Located approximately 10 km from the city center, Tainan Airport offers domestic flights and limited international connections.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tainan is quite walkable, especially in the city center where many attractions are located close to each other. The streets are pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks and walking paths that allow for easy exploration of the city's historical sites and markets. However, some areas may require a bit of walking between attractions, so comfortable footwear is recommended.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Hakka Community

A significant ethnic group in Tainan known for their unique traditions and cultural heritage.

Indigenous Peoples

Various Indigenous groups maintain their distinct cultures and languages in the region, contributing to the diversity of Tainan.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A highly popular sport in Taiwan, with local teams regularly playing in Tainan.

Basketball

Basketball is widely played and watched, with many local courts available for public use.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tainan can be busy, particularly during rush hours. Public transportation options include buses and taxis, which are affordable and convenient for getting around. Biking is also a popular mode of transport, with many bike lanes available throughout the city.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tainan.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's advisable to ask about the ingredients used.

Gluten-Free Options

Limited availability; it's best to inform the restaurant in advance.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Tainan is generally accessible, with numerous hospitals and clinics available. The National Health Insurance system covers many medical services, making healthcare affordable for residents and visitors. English-speaking medical staff may be limited, so it is advisable to have a translation app or bring someone who speaks Mandarin if necessary.

Discover Taiwan

Read more in our Taiwan 2025 Travel Guide.

Taiwan Travel Guide