Taiwan Public Holidays 2026 Guide: Travel Tips and Top Travel Places

Traveling to Taiwan in 2026 is exciting but public holidays can change how you plan your trip. During major holidays many families travel home, transport gets busy and hotel rooms fill up fast. 

At the same time, holidays are a great chance to see Taiwan’s culture, food festivals and local traditions. A little planning helps you avoid crowds and enjoy more of your journey.

Taiwan Public Holidays 2026 Overview

Here is a full list of Taiwan’s official public holidays in 2026. This table also shows what each holiday means and how it may affect your travel.

*The Lunar New Year dates are based on the lunar calendar and may vary slightly.

Taiwan Public Holidays 2026 Calendar

Knowing the public holiday dates helps you plan routes, secure accommodation earlier and avoid unexpected closures. Holidays also offer a chance to see parades, night markets, temple fairs, and local craft shows.

How Taiwan’s Public Holidays Can Affect Your Trip

Travel in Taiwan changes during public holidays. Here is what to prepare for.

Transport Demand

• Flights, high speed rail, trains and buses sell out quickly during Lunar New Year, Mid Autumn Festival and National Day weekends.
• Expect long queues at Taipei Main Station, Taichung Station and Kaohsiung Station.
• Taxi and ride sharing services are in high demand and waiting times can be longer.

Accommodation Prices

• Hotel rates rise sharply around major holidays. Areas such as Taipei, Jiufen, Sun Moon Lake, Kenting and Hualien see high booking demand.
• Booking early means better price and room choice.

Closures and Limited Services

• Government offices and banks close on all public holidays. 
• Around Lunar New Year many local restaurants, supermarkets and attractions close or have reduced hours.
• Major malls, MRT stations and airports remain open.

Crowds at Popular Attractions

• Tourist landmarks such as Taipei 101, National Palace Museum, Taroko Gorge, Sun Moon Lake and Kenting Beach can be very crowded during holidays.
• Expect heavy foot traffic in night markets like Shilin, Raohe and Fengjia.

Best Tips for Visiting Taiwan During Public Holidays

Lunar New Year is the busiest period in Taiwan. Most shops close for several days, and many locals travel back to their hometowns. Book flights, trains and hotels early to avoid sold out offers.

During holidays such as Dragon Boat Festival and Mid Autumn Festival many small shops and markets stay open but may close early. Major malls, night markets and tourist spots often stay open.

Major Holidays and Cultural Highlights in Taiwan

Lunar New Year

This is the most important holiday in Taiwan. Families gather to eat, give red envelopes and visit temples. Many museums and shops close for several days.

💥Travel Tip: Book meals and transport ahead because local restaurants get full quickly.

Dragon Boat Festival

Boat races and sticky rice dumplings are a big part of this holiday. Southern cities like Tainan and Kaohsiung host exciting races.

💥Travel Tip: Arrive early at race venues and check ferry or bus schedules.

Mid Autumn Festival

Family gatherings, moon cakes and lantern displays fill the streets. Night markets stay lively late into the night.

💥Travel Tip: Night markets are best visited after dinner for local snacks and street performances.

National Day

Parades, concerts and fireworks fill major cities. Taipei’s celebrations around Ketagalan Boulevard are very busy.

💥Travel Tip: Arrive early to secure good viewing spots and avoid road closures.

Closures and Disruptions to Expect During Taiwan’s Public Holidays

Transport and Traffic

• Expect traffic jams near train stations and airports before Lunar New Year and long weekends.
• Trains and high speed rail are in high demand.

Government and Public Services

• All government offices, embassies, and banks close on national holidays.
• Postal and administrative services may stop until the next working day.

Shops, Malls, and Dining

• Convenience stores remain open in major cities, but family run shops and local restaurants often close during Lunar New Year.
• Night markets usually stay open and are good spots for dinner.

Tourist Attractions

• Most attractions remain open but can be very crowded during cultural parades and firework shows.
• Some roads may close temporarily for events.

Travel Tips for Visiting Taiwan

Book Early

Secure flights and hotels at least 1 to 2 months before Lunar New Year or long weekends to avoid price increases.

Travel in Off Peak Hours

Plan high speed rail or train trips early in the morning or mid weekday to beat holiday rush.

Use Transport Apps

Apps like Google Maps, Taiwan High Speed Rail app and local bus apps help track schedules and find alternative routes.

Stay Near Transport Hubs

Choosing hotels near Taipei Main Station, Taichung Station or Kaohsiung Station makes moving around much easier.

Try Quieter Places

Instead of crowded cities, consider places like Taitung, Penghu, Yilan, or Alishan for a calmer travel experience.

Choose Your Travel Dates Wisely

Sometimes traveling on the holiday itself can be quieter than the days before and after, especially during Lunar New Year departures.

Time to Plan Your Taiwan Trip

Understanding Taiwan’s public holidays in 2026 helps you plan the trip you want, whether you enjoy lively festivals or prefer calmer days with fewer crowds. Book early, check transport schedules and choose travel dates that match your style.

With the right planning, you can enjoy everything from temple celebrations and night markets to mountain views and seaside towns across Taiwan.