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Getting Around Taipei, Taiwan

Globetrotter

14 May 2023 - 5 min read

Taipei, one of the metropolitan cities in Taiwan, offers a unique blend of luxury and simplicity all in one place. With its diverse range of culinary delights, vibrant art scene, and rich cultural heritage, Taipei is a destination that truly captivates.

However, navigating the city can sometimes be a bit challenging, as the transportation system can be overwhelming. Nonetheless, Taipei's transportation network is known for its efficiency, ensuring seamless exploration of the city's captivating attractions. Well, to make your trip easier, here are the transportation options available in Taipei.

Transportation Recommendations in Taipei

Taipei has an extensive bus network, efficient trains, and other modes of public transportation that already use a good system. However, the biggest challenge in the city is language. You should understand or be able to write and also speak Chinese. This will make it easier for you when exploring Taipei and prevent you from getting into unwanted situations. Here are some options for getting around Taipei.

1. MRT

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Routes: One of the most commonly used modes of transportation in Taipei is the MRT. The MRT is also known as the Metro. Almost all networks in the city are connected by five efficient express local trains. The five trains are the Ziqiang – the fastest and most expensive train; Juguang; Fuxing; Local Express for traveling short and medium distances quickly; and local trains for short and medium distances. In addition, the Taipei MRT System consists of five main lines. The brown line connects Taipei's Nangang Exhibition Center to Taipei Zoo; the red line extends from Tamsui to Xiangshan; the green and orange lines take passengers from Huilong or Luzhou to Nanshijiao; and the blue line connects Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center to Yongning.

Advantages: Nearly all public information is available in two languages, English and Mandarin. Additionally, you can bring your pet along when using the MRT. The MRT also provides special seats for the elderly, pregnant women, mothers with babies, and people with disabilities.

Fares: Ticket prices are usually displayed on the schedule board at each station. However, to make it easier, you can check the prices on the official website. Generally, ticket prices range from TWD 20 to TWD 90 for a one-way trip. If you use a transportation card, the price ranges from TWD 20 to TWD 64.

Payment methods: To facilitate easy access to the MRT, you have the option to use an Easy card, Taiwan Rail Pass, or other similar cards. These cards can be obtained at the airport or the central Metro station with cash or a credit card. Additionally, ticket machines are available for your convenience. Please note that a fee of TWD 20 will be charged during the return process.

Operational hours: Trains usually run from 06.00 am to midnight.

Tips: Download the Taipei Subway Metro app. This app will provide you with station locations, departure schedules, and accessibility information, making it easier for you to navigate the MRT system. Also, it's best to avoid using the Taipei MRT during peak hours, such as 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. as trains will be full.

2. Bus

Source: Unsplash @moralis

Advantages: Taipei has buses with air conditioning facilities, comfortable seats, TVs, toilets inside, and trained staff. Buses are generally cheaper than trains in Taipei, except for buses with express lines, which no matter how bad the traffic is, the bus will arrive on time and quickly because it is not affected by the traffic.

Disadvantages: Even so, the bus air conditioner is never turned off, so it can be very cold on the bus. In addition, there is no bus fleet to the villages or mountains. You must use a car, scooter, or other means to get to the village. There are different rules for purchasing tickets for different types of buses. So, pay attention to those rules before buying a ticket.

Fares: for One way fare is around TWD 15. You will need a ticket to travel by bus. You can get tickets at the station or bus stop.

Operational hours: Buses in Taipei run 24 hours. So you can choose a schedule at any time with any route.

Tips: Follow the example of other passengers or inquire with the driver about payment methods, due to the different rules for paying for tickets. The Taipei bus runs on schedule, so be on time to avoid missing the bus. Also, note the rear of the bus has seats reserved for the elderly, disabled, and pregnant.

Also read: Event: Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival in Taiwan

3. Taxi

Source: Unsplash @jeffrey_w

Advantages: In Taipei, taxis and ride-hailing services are also available. Despite their higher prices, taxis have become the most flexible mode of transportation for exploring the city. If you are traveling in a group or have a lot of items with you, you can opt to take a taxi. In addition, you can also easily find it on the streets or in transportation centers such as stations.

Disadvantages: However, the taxi price will be higher than usual at night. Security is a major supporting factor.

Fares: For a distance of about 1.25 km, the fare is about TWD 70, then TWD 5 every 0.25 km further. During late night trips, the fare increases to TWD 20.

Operational hours: The taxi will operate from 6:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. and from midnight to 6:00 a.m.

4. Bike

Source: Unsplash @jeffreychai

Advantages: Want to get around Taipei by bike? You can do it. There are YouBike or Ubike and Giant, services for bike rentals. In addition, there are bike lanes in the city center, so you can ride safely and comfortably. There is also a remote delivery service from Giant. You can borrow and return it anytime thanks to the online system.

Disadvantages: The disadvantage of bike rental is that it is only suitable for short-distance trips.

Rates: Renting a bicycle is quite cheap, you only need to pay TWD 100 a full day for a regular bike. While for mountain bikes, it is about TWD 350 a whole day. Bicycle rentals with accessories are priced at TWD 200 to TWD 300 per day.

5. Scooter

Source: Unsplash @anhkiet95

Advantages: Taipei also has scooter rental services. The scooter accommodates two to three people with small children. Both locals and foreign tourists can rent scooters, but it will be easier if you live in Taipei and have an international driver's license, as the system must show an ARC (alien resident certificate). This scooter is the right choice if you want to go to a village or mountains as well as remote places where access is difficult to use cars and buses.

Disadvantages: However, currently, scooter rentals are still tricky because service providers will pay fines if there is a mistake on the streets. At the same time, this payment process can take months.

Rates: For the price, you will pay a daily scooter fee of TWD 200.

Tips: You should drive carefully because there are many transportations on the road of various sizes. Create distance between you and other transportation to avoid unwanted things.

So, these are the transportation alternatives available in Taipei. It is worth noting that Taipei City already boasts a well-developed public transportation system. Whether you prefer taxis, scooters, or the efficient public transportation system, Taipei offers a variety of transportation options to meet your needs.

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