Getting around Taipei using public transport is incredibly easy, efficient, and foreigner-friendly! The backbone is Taipei’s MRT (subway) system – clean, English-signed, and covering major attractions. Simply grab an EasyCard (a reloadable smart card) or buy single-journey tickets from station machines. Buses conveniently fill in gaps between MRT stops. Download apps like “Taipei Metro” or Google Maps for real-time routes, schedules, and transfers. Payment is seamless: just tap your EasyCard when boarding MRT trains or buses. With everything marked in English, frequent services, and affordable fares starting around NT$20, you’ll navigate like a local in no time!
Exploring Taipei is half the fun when you understand how its top-notch public transport connects everything. The MRT isn’t just fast; it’s air-conditioned bliss during summer! Buses reach charming neighborhoods like Tamsui or Maokong. Using an EasyCard (sold at convenience stores like 7-Eleven or MRT stations) gives you discounts and avoids fussing with cash. Consider a day pass (NT$150) for unlimited rides if you’re hopping between temples, night markets, and museums. Remember, peak hours (7-9 AM & 5-7 PM) get busy but services run so often you’ll rarely wait long. Ready to dive deeper? Here’s your full toolkit:
What Are Taipei’s Main Public Transport Choices?
Taipei offers diverse options:
- MRT (Metro): Best for speed and major landmarks. Color-coded lines link Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial, and Shilin Night Market. Trains run every 3-7 minutes.
- Buses: Ideal for scenic routes or areas beyond MRT lines. Use apps to track arrivals. Cash or EasyCard accepted.
- YouBike: Taipei’s bike-share system. Pay via EasyCard – perfect for riverside paths.
- Taxis: Metered, affordable, use apps like Uber. Great late-night or for groups.
Summary Table: Taipei Public Transport Options
Type | Best For | Payment | Key Stations/Areas | Frequency |
---|---|---|---|---|
MRT | Speed & major sights | EasyCard / Single Ticket | Taipei Main Stn, Ximen, Beitou | Every 3-7 mins |
Buses | Local streets & views | EasyCard / Cash | Tamsui, Yangmingshan, Jiufen | 10-20 mins (varies) |
YouBike | Short rides & exploration | EasyCard | Riverside parks, Dadaocheng | 24⁄7 docks available |
Taxis | Door-to-door convenience | Cash / Card | Available city-wide | On-demand |
How Do I Pay for Rides Across Taipei?
The EasyCard is king! Buy it for NT$100 (refundable deposit) plus top-up credit at MRT stations or FamilyMart. Tap on/off MRT gates and buses – fares auto-deduct, and you get 20% off transfers between transport. For short visits, single-journey tickets work too. Taxis take cash and cards. Pro tip: Load NT$200-300 daily – most rides cost under NT$50!
Where Can I Find Taipei’s Transport Maps and Apps?
Grab free physical maps at MRT info desks or airport kiosks. Essential apps:
- Google Maps: Input destinations for step-by-step MRT/bus directions.
- Taipei Metro: Official MRT map, station exits, and service alerts.
- Bus Tracker Taipei: Real-time bus arrivals and routes. All include English interfaces and work offline with downloaded maps.
What Etiquette Tips Make Taipei’s MRT Smoother?
Locals appreciate these courtesies:
- Queue orderly: Wait for passengers to exit before boarding trains.
- Priority seats: Offer seats marked in blue