One of the best ways to explore Taipei and its surrounding areas is by renting a car for a self-driving tour.

Self-driving not only offers you the freedom to plan your itinerary flexibly but also allows you to explore hidden scenic spots inaccessible by public transportation. Northern Taiwan boasts rich natural landscapes, historical culture, and cuisine that cater to diverse interests, whether you enjoy nature, history, or culinary delights.

Preparations Before Renting a Car

Taipei hosts many reputable car rental companies such as Hertz, Avis, Budget, and Enterprise. These companies offer various vehicle types from compact cars to luxury vehicles, catering to different traveler needs. When renting a car, ensure you have a valid driver's license (international or local Taiwan license) and passport. Additionally, some rental companies may require a credit card as a deposit. Choose a vehicle type based on your itinerary and number of travelers. For mountainous journeys, an SUV is recommended, while compact cars offer flexibility for urban short trips.

Featured Route 1: Yangmingshan National Park

Located in northern Taipei, Yangmingshan National Park is renowned for its magnificent volcanic landscapes and rich plant ecology. It's an excellent choice for a self-driving tour with varied seasonal scenery.

Xiaoyoukeng: Famous for its geothermal activity, Xiaoyoukeng continuously emits steam, creating a spectacular sight.
Zhuzihu: Known for its beautiful calla lily fields, Zhuzihu is best visited during spring.
Lengshuikeng: Offers natural hot springs and hiking trails, ideal for relaxation and enjoying nature.

Recommended Stops:

Yangming Shuyuan: Former residence of renowned scholar Lin Yutang, featuring beautiful gardens and a tranquil environment.
Qingtiangang: A vast grassland suitable for walking and picnicking.
Grass Mountain Chateau: Former residence of Chiang Kai-shek, offering rich historical exhibits and beautiful gardens.

Featured Route 2: North Coast and Tamsui

This route takes you along the North Coast, offering sea breezes and beautiful coastal scenery, culminating in the historically rich town of Tamsui.

Yehliu Geopark: Known for its unique sea-erosion formations like the Queen's Head.
Fuguei Cape Lighthouse: Taiwan's northernmost lighthouse offering magnificent views of the sea.
Tamsui Old Street: Preserves many traditional buildings and local delicacies, perfect for sampling regional snacks.

Recommended Stops:

Fisherman's Wharf: Features beautiful sunsets and the romantic Lover's Bridge, ideal for strolls and photography.
Fort San Domingo: A historically significant Dutch fortress with rich historical exhibitions.
Tamsui Riverbank Park: Perfect for walks and relaxation, offering views of the river and birdwatching opportunities.

Featured Route 3: Jiufen and Jinguashi

This route takes you through mountainous areas to Jiufen and Jinguashi, both rich in nostalgic charm and historical significance as former mining towns.

Jiufen Old Street: Known for its unique stairway streets and delicious local snacks.
Jinguashi Gold Ecological Park: Showcases Jinguashi's mining history and offers the experience of gold panning.
Teapot Mountain Trail: Provides stunning mountain and distant sea views, popular among hiking enthusiasts.

Recommended Stops:

A-Mei Tea House: A tea house with stunning views, offering a variety of Taiwanese teas and snacks.
Jiufen Theater: A traditional theater preserving its original architectural style.
Jinguashi Shinto Shrine: Located atop a hill, offering panoramic views of the entire Jinguashi area.

Featured Route 4: Yilan Luodong

Starting from Taipei and passing through the Snow Mountain Tunnel, you'll reach Yilan's backyard, known for its rich natural resources and cultural activities.

Luodong Night Market: A great place to sample a variety of Taiwanese delicacies, bustling with activity at night.
Luodong Forestry Culture Park: Showcases Luodong's forestry history and features beautiful natural landscapes.
Meihua Lake: Offers picturesque scenery, ideal for leisurely walks and relaxation.

Recommended Stops:

Luodong Sports Park: Offers expansive grasslands and various sports facilities, ideal for family activities.
Craftsmanship Center: Showcases traditional Taiwanese arts and crafts, offering various workshops.
Luodong Forestry Culture Park: Features rich natural landscapes and historical exhibits.

Featured Route 5: Taoyuan Daxi

In addition to Taoyuan International Airport, Taoyuan boasts rich historical and cultural heritage sites along with beautiful natural scenery.

Daxi Old Street: Preserves many buildings from the Qing Dynasty, featuring local snacks and handicrafts.
Cihu Mausoleum: A historical site dedicated to Chiang Kai-shek, featuring beautiful gardens and sculptures.
Taoyuan Valley: Offers scenic hiking trails and beautiful waterfalls, ideal for nature lovers.

Recommended Stops:

Ta Shee Blooming Oasis: Features vast flower fields and various seasonal flower exhibitions.
Cihu Sunset Tower: Offers panoramic views of Taoyuan City and is a popular spot for sunset photography.
Taoyuan City Arts Center: Showcases contemporary Taiwanese arts and cultural performances.

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Driving Tips in Taiwan

When driving in Taiwan, it's essential to abide by traffic rules, especially on mountain roads. Remember to wear your seatbelt and maintain a safe distance. Traffic in Taipei can be heavy during peak hours, so it's advisable to avoid rush hours and plan your routes ahead to choose smoother roads. Carry a charger with you to ensure your phone remains charged. Additionally, consider purchasing a Taiwanese SIM card or renting a WiFi device for constant internet access and staying connected.

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Conclusion

Renting a car for self-driving in Taipei is an excellent way to explore northern Taiwan. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, history buff, or foodie, there are plenty of attractions and activities awaiting discovery. We hope these five selected routes inspire your journey, making your self-driving experience in northern Taiwan fulfilling.

FAQs

What should I pay attention to when self-driving in Taipei? When renting a car, ensure you have a valid driver's license and passport, and choose a car model that suits your itinerary. When driving, adhere to traffic rules, especially on mountain roads.
Are gas stations easy to find in Taiwan? Gas stations in Taiwan are quite abundant, especially in cities and major roads, making refueling very convenient.
Should I book accommodations in advance for a self-driving trip? During peak seasons or at popular destinations, it's recommended to book accommodations in advance to avoid last-minute availability issues.

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Taipei Car Rental Self-Drive Tours: 5 Curated Routes to Explore Northern Taiwan