Taipei Safety Guide
Taipei is one of the world's safest cities. Here's what to know to stay secure and healthy.
Safety Overview
| Topic | Risk Level | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Crime | Very low | Taipei is one of the safest cities in the world. Violent crime is rare. |
| Pickpocketing | Low | Occasional in crowded night markets and MRT. Stay aware. |
| Scams | Low | Taxi overcharging and fake goods are the most common. |
| Natural Disasters | Medium | Earthquakes and typhoons are possible. Monitor alerts. |
| Traffic | Medium | Scooters can be chaotic. Use crosswalks and pedestrian signals. |
Common Scams
Taxi Overcharging
How: Driver takes longer route or doesn't use meter
Avoid: Insist on meter, use Uber
Fake Goods
How: Counterfeit items sold as authentic
Avoid: Buy from reputable stores
Tea Ceremony Scam
How: Friendly locals invite you to expensive tea
Avoid: Politely decline unsolicited invitations
Fake Monks
How: People in robes asking for donations
Avoid: Real monks don't ask for money in public
Overpriced Souvenirs
How: Tourist traps near major attractions
Avoid: Compare prices, buy at night markets
Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number | When to Call |
|---|---|---|
| Police | 110 | Crime, theft, emergencies |
| Fire & Ambulance | 119 | Medical emergencies, fires |
| Tourist Hotline | 0800-011-765 | Free 24/7 multilingual support |
| Foreigner Hotline | 02-2388-9393 | National Immigration Agency |
| Emergency Medical | 02-2871-0151 | Taipei City Hospital |
Health Tips
- Tap water is technically safe but locals boil it — drink bottled or boiled water
- Taipei has excellent healthcare — international hospitals in the city center
- No vaccinations required for most travelers
- Bring prescription medications with documentation
- Air quality can be poor some days — check AQI
- Mosquito-borne diseases are rare but use repellent in summer
- Convenience stores sell basic medicines and first aid
Safety Tips
- Always carry ID — police can request it
- Keep digital copies of your passport
- Use hotel safes for valuables
- Avoid walking alone in very quiet areas late at night
- Follow local traffic rules — jaywalking is technically illegal
- Earthquake app: 中央氣象署 (CWA) for alerts
- Typhoon season: June to October — stay indoors during storms
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.