Best Taipei Travel Apps
Your smartphone is your best travel companion in Taipei. Here are the apps locals actually use.
Essential Apps
Google Maps
NavigationBest for walking, MRT, and bus directions
Download offline maps for Taipei
Taipei MRT
TransportOfficial MRT app with route planner and fares
Shows real-time train arrivals
Bus+
TransportReal-time bus arrival times across Taiwan
Works for Taipei and other cities
Uber
RidesReliable rides when MRT won't do
Often cheaper than taxis
Google Translate
LanguageCamera translation for menus and signs
Download Chinese offline pack
Pleco
LanguageBest Chinese dictionary with handwriting input
Essential for deeper exploration
Foodpanda / Uber Eats
FoodFood delivery when you're tired
Many English menus available
KKday / Klook
ActivitiesBook tours and skip-the-line tickets
Compare prices between both
EasyWallet
PaymentsCheck EasyCard balance and top-up
Requires registered card
LINE
CommunicationTaiwan's messaging app — locals use it
Many businesses accept LINE Pay
AccuWeather
WeatherAccurate hourly forecasts for Taipei
Essential during typhoon season
YouBike 2.0
CyclingRent and return bikes across the city
Register with EasyCard or phone
App Tips
- Download all apps before arrival — some need SMS verification
- Get a local SIM or eSIM for app functionality
- Most apps work without VPN in Taiwan
- Many taxi drivers use LINE for location sharing
- Set up Google Translate camera before you need it
- Download offline packs for Maps and Translate
More Details
Getting There
Taipei is served by Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) for international flights and Songshan Airport (TSA) for domestic and regional flights. The Airport Express MRT connects Taoyuan to Taipei Main Station in about 35 minutes.
Where to Stay
Xinyi District is perfect for first-time visitors with easy access to Taipei 101 and shopping. Zhongshan offers a more local experience with great dining. Daan is ideal for students and budget travelers.
Local Customs
Taiwanese people are known for their friendliness and hospitality. Bowing is not required but a nod is appreciated. Remove shoes when entering homes and some traditional restaurants.
Weather Considerations
Taipei has a humid subtropical climate. Summers are hot and wet (June-August), while winters are cool and damp (December-February). Spring and autumn are the most pleasant seasons.
Language & Communication
Mandarin is the official language, but Taiwanese Hokkien is widely spoken. English is understood in tourist areas. Download Google Translate with offline Chinese support.
Money & Payments
The currency is New Taiwan Dollar (NTD). Cash is essential for street food and markets. Credit cards are accepted at hotels and major restaurants. ATMs are widely available.
Detailed Tips
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.
Stay Connected
Essential Services
Taiwan e-Gate
Speed up immigration with automated gates. Register at the airport on arrival.
Taiwan CDC App
Health alerts and travel requirements. Useful during health events.
T Express
Taiwan High Speed Rail booking and mobile tickets. Essential for day trips.
TraffiCam
Real-time traffic cameras and road conditions for drivers and cyclists.
Weather & Emergency Apps
WeatherChina
Accurate local weather forecasts, typhoon alerts, and rainfall warnings. Essential during summer months.
Taiwan e-Gate
Register for automated immigration gates. Saves time at the airport on arrival and departure.
Police Radio
Emergency alerts and safety information. Useful for natural disaster warnings and public safety updates.
AirVisual
Air quality index and pollution forecasts. Helpful for planning outdoor activities and sensitive travelers.