Menu

Taipei MRT Guide

Navigate Taipei like a local with the world's most reliable metro system. Clean, safe, and easy to use.

MRT Lines Overview

Brown (Wenhu)

Taipei Zoo to Nangang Exhib Center

24 stations

Red

Xiangshan to Tamsui

30 stations

Green (Songshan-Xindian)

Songshan to Xindian

21 stations

Orange

Huilong to Nanshijiao

26 stations

Blue (Bannan)

Nangang Exhib Center to Dingpu

23 stations

Yellow (Circle)

Loop line connecting all lines

42 stations

Ticket Options

Type Price Best For
Single-Journey Token NT$20-65 Occasional riders
EasyCard NT$100 card + load Regular riders, discounts
Taipei Pass NT$180-700 Tourists, unlimited rides
iPASS NT$100 card + load Inter-city travel

MRT Etiquette

  • Stand on the right, walk on the left on escalators
  • Wait for passengers to exit before boarding
  • No eating, drinking, or gum on trains
  • Offer seats to elderly, pregnant, and those with children
  • Keep voices low and avoid phone calls
  • Queue at platform markings for boarding

Airport Connections

Taoyuan Airport Express

Direct to Taipei Main Station

~35 min NT$160

MRT to Songshan Airport

Brown line to Songshan

~10 min NT$20-30

Bus 1819

To Taipei Main Station

~50 min NT$140

Pro Tip

Don't forget to get an EasyCard. It saves NT$2 per ride and works on buses, YouBike, and even convenience stores. Read our EasyCard guide.

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

Always carry cash for small purchases and street food vendors
Get an EasyCard immediately upon arrival for transport convenience
Download offline maps before exploring to avoid data issues
Learn basic phrases like "Xie Xie" (thank you) and "Bu Yong Xie" (you're welcome)
Tipping is not expected in Taiwan and may even be refused
Avoid visiting during typhoon season (July-September) if possible
Respect queue culture — Taiwanese people always form orderly lines
Stay hydrated — Taipei is humid and you'll walk more than expected

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.