1. Metro (MRT)
- Coverage: 5 main lines + 2 branch lines, 117 stations
- Hours: 06:00-24:00 daily
- Fare: NT$20-65 (~$0.65-2.10 USD) by distance
- Pros: English announcements, free Wi-Fi at stations
2. Buses
- Network: 400+ routes, integrated with MRT
- Payment: EasyCard (20% discount vs. cash)
- Night buses: 30+ routes operate after midnight
3. Taxis
- “Little Yellow” cabs: NT$70 (~$2.30 USD)起步价 for 1.25km
- Apps: Uber unavailable; use Taiwan Taxi app
- Airport to downtown: NT$1,200 ($39 USD)
4. YouBike (Public Bike)
- Pricing: First 30 mins free, then NT$10⁄30 mins
- Stations: 400+ near MRT stops
5. Intercity Transport
- HSR (Taipei→Zuoying): 90 mins, NT$1,490 (~$48 USD)
- TRA (Local trains): Cheaper but slower (e.g., Taipei→Hualien NT$440)
Transport Comparison Chart
| Option | Cost (NTD) | Speed | Best For | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| MRT | 20-65 | Fast | City exploration | Avoid rush hours (7-9AM) |
| Bus | 15-30 | Medium | Short distances | Use EasyCard for transfers |
| Taxi | 70+1.25km | Fast | Late-night travel | 20% night surcharge |
| YouBike | Free start | Slow | Riverside trails | Register with passport |
| HSR | 1,490+ | Fastest | Southbound day trips | Book early for discounts |
Pro Tips:
- Get an EasyCard for MRT/bus/YouBike (refundable deposit NT$100)
- Airport MRT to downtown: NT$160 (~$5 USD), 35 mins
- Avoid 7-9AM & 5-7PM when MRT/buses are crowded
For seamless travel, combine MRT + YouBike for eco-friendly mobility.
