Tainan Travel Guide, Taiwan

Tainan is the fourth largest city in Taiwan, and one of the most popular tourist destinations in the country. For several centuries, Tainan was the capital of Taiwan, but it was replaced by Taipei in the 19th century. The city abounds with historical sites and monuments, and beautiful temples. Tainan is also famous for its lively nightlife, which does not include only bars and clubs, but also over two-dozen night-markets. While the city center has plenty to offer its visitors, Tainan’s surroundings are just as interesting as the more urban attractions. The nearby mangrove reserves and the peaceful Buddhist temples close to the city are sights that should not be missed by any price. This Tainan Travel Guide offers some useful information to tourists who are planning to visit this amazing city.

Tainan Travel Guide - Transport

There are no international airports in close vicinity to Tainan, but if you plan on traveling by plane, you can fly to Kaohsiung Airport, 45 minutes away from Tainan. The airport has good links to many large international airports from mainland China, such as Xiamen or Beijing, or other more remote destinations. If you are already in the country, Tainan can be easily reached from almost any location. From Taipei, you can either fly to Tainan’s domestic airport, or you can travel by bus or train. There are regular bus services that run from Taipei to Tainan every half an hour, and there are frequent connections with other major cities as well.

Buses are the most convenient way to travel around Taiwan, as they are cheap and quite comfortable, and companies often try to attract customers with free drinks or discounts. Going by train is another good option, because Tainan is an important stop on several railway routes, including Taipei – Kaohsiung. Getting around the city using public transport or taxis can be quite difficult if you don’t speak Mandarin, however if you buy a map and point to your destinations, most locals will be happy to show you the way.

Tainan Travel Guide - Accommodation

There are several accommodation options in Tainan, thanks to the large influx of tourist that has prompted more and more hotels to open. Budget accommodation is more difficult to find, but there are a few hotels that would be perfect for backpackers or for less picky tourists. Guang Hwa Hotel near the train station is a clean and comfortable hotel that provides modern amenities such as wireless internet and breakfast included in the price. Dendale Yong Fu Hotel is located 5 minutes from the Mitsukoshi Department Shopping Mall. The rooms are spacious and quite well decorated; there is free internet and other facilities. If you are in search of pure luxury, this Tainan Travel Guide recommends the Tayih Landis Hotel, a magnificent modern building equipped with excellent facilities, and with a great view from the upper floor rooms.