From Michelin-starred restaurants to street food stalls, Taipei offers incredible dining at every price point. Night markets are a cultural institution.

Safe & Friendly

Taipei is one of the safest cities in the world. Locals are helpful and welcoming, making it perfect for solo travelers and families alike.

Easy to Explore

The MRT system is clean, efficient, and easy to navigate. English signs and announcements make getting around stress-free for visitors.

Nature & City

Hiking trails, hot springs, and beaches are within an hour of the city center. Enjoy urban convenience with easy access to nature.

Rich Culture

Ancient temples, Japanese-era architecture, and modern design coexist. Explore history at the National Palace Museum and Longshan Temple.

Affordable Travel

Taipei offers excellent value. Delicious meals for under NT$200, affordable transport, and free attractions make it budget-friendly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best time to visit Taipei?

Autumn (October to November) offers the best weather with comfortable temperatures around 20-25°C and minimal rainfall.

Do I need to speak Mandarin to visit Taipei?

No, English is widely understood in tourist areas, hotels, and restaurants. Translation apps like Google Translate work very well for menus and signs.

How much should I budget per day in Taipei?

Budget travelers can manage on NT$1,500-2,000 per day, while comfortable travel costs NT$3,000-5,000. Luxury travel starts at NT$8,000+ per day.

Is Taipei safe for solo travelers?

Taipei is one of the safest cities in the world with very low crime rates. Solo travelers, including women, generally feel very safe exploring day and night.

Can I use credit cards in Taipei?

Credit cards are accepted at most hotels, chain restaurants, and large stores. However, cash is essential for night markets, street food, and small local shops.

What's the best way to get around Taipei?

The MRT (metro) is the most efficient and affordable way to travel. Buses complement the MRT network. Taxis and Uber are affordable for short trips.

Do I need a visa to visit Taiwan?

Many nationalities including US, UK, EU, Australia, and Japan can enter visa-free for 90 days. Check the Bureau of Consular Affairs website for current requirements.

Is tap water safe to drink in Taipei?

Taipei's tap water is technically safe but most locals boil it or drink bottled water. We recommend drinking bottled or boiled water during your stay.

What should I pack for Taipei?

Pack comfortable walking shoes, light layers, and a portable umbrella. Summers require breathable clothing and sunscreen. Winters need a light jacket and warm layers.

How do I get from the airport to the city?

The Airport Express MRT connects Taoyuan International Airport to Taipei Main Station in about 35 minutes. Buses and taxis are also available. Songshan Airport is in the city center.

What is the currency in Taiwan?

The currency is New Taiwan Dollar (NTD or TWD). Exchange rates are approximately 30-32 NTD to 1 USD. ATMs are widely available and accept international cards.

Can I use my phone in Taipei?

Yes, get a local SIM card or eSIM at the airport. Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, and FarEasTone offer tourist plans with unlimited data.

What are the best day trips from Taipei?

Popular day trips include Jiufen (old mining town), Shifen (sky lantern village), Yangmingshan (national park), and Tamsui (riverside town). All are accessible by MRT or train.

How do I use the EasyCard?

Buy an EasyCard at any MRT station or convenience store for NT$100. Top up at machines or counters. Tap when entering and exiting the MRT. It also works on buses and YouBike.

What are the must-visit attractions in Taipei?

Don't miss Taipei 101, Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Longshan Temple, National Palace Museum, and the night markets. Each offers a unique glimpse into Taiwanese culture and history.

Is Taipei family-friendly?

Absolutely! Taipei is very safe, clean, and welcoming to families. The MRT is stroller-friendly, and there are many parks, museums, and attractions suitable for children of all ages.

What is the emergency number in Taipei?

Police: 110, Fire/Ambulance: 119. There is also a tourist hotline at 0800-011-765 for free 24/7 multilingual assistance during your stay.

Are there any cultural customs I should know?

Remove shoes when entering homes. Bowing is not required but a slight nod is polite. Avoid writing in red ink for names. Gift-giving is common, and always use both hands when giving or receiving.

How do I get to Jiufen from Taipei?

Take a bus from Zhongxiao Fuxing MRT (1062 bus) or go to Ruifang Station by train then take the 788/965 bus. The journey takes about 1-1.5 hours depending on traffic.

What is the etiquette for visiting temples?

Dress modestly with shoulders and knees covered. Speak quietly. Do not point at statues with your feet. Photography is usually allowed but avoid flash. Watch and follow what locals do.

Getting Started in Taipei

First-Time Visitors

Start with our MRT guide, EasyCard guide, and best time to visit. These will help you navigate the city like a local.

Budget Travelers

Check our budget guide and free things to do. Taipei is very affordable if you know where to go.

Food Lovers

Explore our food guides for night markets, street food, breakfast, and world-famous restaurants.

Adventure Seekers

Our hiking and cycling guides will take you beyond the city to stunning natural landscapes.

Explore Taipei Food

Discover the best food guides for Taipei's world-famous cuisine.

Browse Food Guides

Quick Facts About Taipei

Population

Approximately 2.6 million people in the city, with over 7 million in the greater metropolitan area.

Language

Mandarin Chinese is official. Taiwanese Hokkien and indigenous languages are also spoken. English is common in tourist areas.

Currency

New Taiwan Dollar (NTD/TWD). Exchange rate is approximately 30-32 NTD to 1 USD.

Time Zone

Taiwan Standard Time (UTC+8). No daylight saving time changes.

Electricity

110V, 60Hz. Type A and B plugs (same as USA and Japan). Bring a universal adapter if needed.

Climate

Humid subtropical. Hot summers (28-35°C) and mild winters (12-20°C). Rainy season is May-June.