First-Timer’s Guide to Traveling Tainan in 3 Days
Last Updated on November 6, 2024 by Erin Donahue
If you’re planning a trip to Taiwan you must visit Tainan (臺南市). The island of Taiwan is only about the size of New Jersey but has so many things to do! While Taipei (臺北) and Kaohsiung (高雄) often steal the tourist spotlight, Taiwan’s former capital, Tainan, is a hidden gem waiting to be explored. You only need about 3 days to travel around the city. For other lesser-known locations in Taiwan, I’ve also written about Hsinchu, otherwise known as “Taiwan’s Silicon Valley.”
Anping Historic District
If you’re a history buff, check out the Anping Historic District during your Tainan 3 day itinerary. The historic structures coexist harmoniously with contemporary life. Anping is the earliest port in Taiwan’s history so a lot of foreign trade happened during the occupational rule of the Portuguese, Dutch, Ming, and Ching Dynasties and Japanese.
The imposing Fort Zeelandia, also named Anping Old Fort (安平古堡), is a remnant of Dutch colonization. Marvel at the Anping Tree House (安平樹屋), a remarkable fusion of nature and architecture. The Treehouse used to store salt during the Japanese Occupation and later became a warehouse for the Taiwan Salt Corporation after World War II. The banyan trees are an invasive species and have clung to the brick walls of the tree house. My camera may or may not have dropped down this flight of stairs when I was capturing content alone.
Also in the campus are the Tait & Co Merchant House, and Zhu Jiu-Ying Residence.
Anping Old Street (安平老街)
Immerse yourself in Tainan’s rich history by strolling along Anping Old Street, a charming lane that transports you back in time. This historic quarter, down the street from Anping Old Fort, beckons with its traditional architecture and an array of local delicacies. Eat some candied fruits (蜜餞) and explore the multitude of shops lining the street, each offering a unique glimpse into Tainan’s daily life.
Sicao Green Tunnel
Dubbed by locals the “Little Amazon River” (小亞馬遜河), Sicao Green Tunnel is a beautiful mangrove forest in the Sicao Wetlands and is a must-do during a Tainan 3 day itinerary. Part of Taijiang National Park, the wetlands were set aside by the Tainan City Government and are a protected area. Take a cruise through the Sicao Green Tunnel and snap some beautiful pictures.
Address: Section 1, Xiancao Street, Annan Dist., Tainan City Taiwán, R.O.C
Dadong Night Market (大東夜市)
Tainan, like many cities in Taiwan, has multiple night markets. Night market culture in the island nation is top tier and the street food is hands down the best. Be sure to visit at least one of the night markets during your Tainan 3 day itinerary. Also spelled as Ta-Tung, Dadong Night Market is considered Tainan’s second-largest, and offers an authentic and lively experience. With approximately 300 food stalls lining its bustling alleys, this culinary haven promises an array of mouthwatering local delicacies. Some delicious foods I ate included candied sweet potatoes and a bunch of other delicious eats that filled me up.
Where to stay in Tainan
There are a lot of places to stay throughout Tainan. When I was wandering Xiaozhong Street I stumbled upon Sanheyuan-style houses converted into hostels and the landlord invited me into one to check out the old architecture. Sanheyuan-style houses are traditional Taiwanese homes with U-shaped courtyards. There were 5 hostels in the area that looked a bit pricey but it looked like a cool stay in the heart of this part of town.
If you’re seeking a luxurious retreat in downtown Tainan, the Shangri-La Tainan is an excellent choice. This elegant 4-star hotel combines modern amenities with traditional Taiwanese hospitality, offering a seamless blend of comfort and cultural immersion. Last I checked, rooms started at $100 USD per night, allowing guests to indulge without compromising on affordability.
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