15 days in Taipei & Hanoi Itinerary

Situated in a basin between two mountain ranges, Taipei appeals to tourists with its blend of Asian cultures, living side by side amidst Japanese-era mansions and Taoist temples.

Your inner history buff will appreciate Taipei Confucius Temple and Chiufen (Jiufen Old Street). Get a sense of the local culture at National Revolutionary Martyrs' Shrine and Lanyang Museum. Explore Taipei's surroundings by going to Wufengchi Waterfall (in Jiaoxi), YehLiu Geopark (in Wanli) and Danshuei (in Tamsui). There's still lots to do: take in the spiritual surroundings of Hsing Tian Kong, buy something for everyone on your list at Taipei 101, don't miss a visit to Elephant Mountain (aka Nangang District Hiking Trail), and stop by Ximen Red House - Ximending.

For traveler tips, where to stay, photos, and other tourist information, refer to the Taipei trip planner.

Frankfurt, Germany to Taipei is an approximately 15.5-hour flight. The time zone changes from Central European Standard Time (CET) to Taipei Standard Time (CST), which is usually a 7 hour difference. Expect much warmer temperatures when traveling from Frankfurt in February; daily highs in Taipei reach 23°C and lows reach 16°C. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 28th (Wed) to allow time for the flight to Hanoi.

The capital of Vietnam, Hanoi has bounded back from the effects of war, and today serves as a bustling commercial and cultural hub bursting at the seams.

Popular historic sites such as Old Quarter and Temple of Literature & National University are in your itinerary. Explore hidden gems such as Chua Tran Quoc and Fine Arts Museum (Bao Tang My Thuat). Spend the 4th (Sun) wandering through the wild on a nature and wildlife tour. The adventure continues: steep yourself in history at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, explore the activities along Lake of the Restored Sword (Hoan Kiem Lake), make a trip to Hanoi Ceramic Mosaic Mural, and let your taste buds guide you at a local gastronomic tour.

To see photos, ratings, and other tourist information, refer to the Hanoi travel planner.

You can fly from Taipei to Hanoi in 6 hours. Other options are to do a combination of car and ferry; or do a combination of train and ferry. Traveling from Taipei to Hanoi, you'll gain 1 hour due to the time zone difference. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 8th (Thu) so you can catch the flight back home.