travel apps in taiwan

The 13 Most Useful Apps for Traveling in Taiwan

Apps for Traveling in Taiwan – Index

• Google Maps
• GO! Taipei Metro
• Tour Taiwan
• Taiwan Weather
• Travel Taipei
• Taiwan GuideWithMe
• Agoda, Booking, and Airbnb

Do you plan to travel to Taiwan and want to download a handful of useful applications? In this article, we list some of the best applications that are widely used among locals and travelers alike.

You can save a great deal of time, energy, and money if you download a handful of these applications and start using them from day one.

The applications listed are available both for the Android operating system (on Google Play) and iOS (the Apple Store). If you have any other recommendations of applications that should be of interest to travelers, feel free to write a comment below.

Let’s start with probably the most important application.

1. Google Maps

You’ve probably not gone unnoticed about Google Maps as it’s one of the most widely used applications in the world. Google Maps has transformed the way of traveling as you won’t need to bring physical maps anymore. The reason is that Google Maps allows you to download maps that can later be used in offline mode.

Thus, you won’t even need an internet connection or Wi-Fi to use the application, even if that’s preferred.

Google Maps is great in the sense that it’s free, accurate and helps you to navigate streets, find bars and restaurants, check the distance between locations, and you can see routes and distances in real-time.

There are no real cons of using Google Maps even though it can be a bit slow from time to time, depending on the internet connection.

You can download Google Maps for free on Google Play and in the Apple Store . Having said that, it’s usually pre-installed if you use Android.

Uber is one of the biggest taxi-hailing apps in the world that has managed to continue its operations in Taiwan. That’s not the case in Southeast Asian countries and in China where Uber decided to pull out due to fierce competition.

Uber has around 10,000 drivers in Taiwan and used widely among travelers who don’t want to hassle taking regular taxis or public transportation. Sometimes, taxi drivers aren’t capable of speaking English in Taiwan and you don’t want to wait for a taxi to arrive.

Taxi fares are comparably cheap in Taiwan, at least compared to places like Singapore and Hong Kong. Thus, Uber can be a convenient choice if you’re in a rush or just a bit lazy.

The company has been under scrutiny by the Taiwanese government and announced that it will comply with the government’s regulations in 2019.

3. GO! Taipei Metro

GO! Taipei Metro was launched by Taipei Rapid Transit Corporation (TRTC) and is widely used among locals and foreign travelers alike. The application shows you the Taipei Metro route map , transfer information, exit information, and it can be used as a journey planner.

Another great benefit of using the application is that they report incidents or disturbances to public transportation in real-time, by sending push notifications to users. You can simply go to the section “important notices” for the latest information.

The application also allows you to see the nearest YouBike stations (more about YouBike later), which Metro stations that are handicapped-friendly, the quickest route to your final destination, and more.

Simply download the application on Google Play or in the Apple Store .

4. Tour Taiwan

Tour Taiwan was created by the local government and helps you to find restaurants, accommodation, police stations, and hospitals. You can also read news, find popular tourist sites, and festivals.

It can be worth giving this application a try even if some users have complained that it’s only available in Chinese now. It should be available in English, Chinese, Japanese, Traditional Chinese, at least according to various sources.

Few parts of the application are available in English and some complain that the application is rather slow.

KKDay is an eCommerce travel platform that helps travelers to find and book local tours, activities, attractions, experiences, and transportation. The website is neat and available in English, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, French, Vietnamese, and more.

Simply input your budget and time range and then KKDay will display the best activities and attractions available. You can instantly see descriptions, prices, durations, and reviews. If you’re interested in participating in an activity, simply add it to the cart and proceed to checkout.

KKDay is a partner of several major companies and service providers, including HSBC, UOB, Mastercard, Shopee, Grab, Uber, Lazada, and more.

The application has a surprisingly high rating, averaging at 4.7 on Google Play and with almost 19,000 reviews. You can also find the application in the Apple Store .

Line is an instant-messaging application, similar to WhatsApp that is used in many other countries. Line originally comes from Korea and is widely used in places like Thailand, Korea, Japan, and Taiwan.

If you want to interact with locals and exchange your contact information, you should download Line before or after you’ve arrived in Taiwan. Even if some locals use WeChat and WhatsApp, you’ll see that most people use Line.

The application is easy to use and allows you to send texts, images, video, and audio messages, and have free VoIP conversations and video phone calls.

Pleco is probably the best digital English and Chinese dictionary you can find in the market. As locals are keen to speak English and sometimes can’t communicate in English, I recommend you to download this application from day one.

The application has been around for years and there’s both a free and a paid version. That said, the free version should be more than enough. Originally founded in the US in 2000, Pleco has become one of the most popular English and Chinese dictionary for smartphones.

The application allows you hand-write characters, save flashcards for future training, screen readers, and much more.

Pleco has received more than 35,000 votes on Google Play and with an average score of 4.7. It can’t be better than that!

FunNow is a popular application that allows you to book restaurant visits, spa visits, and other activities with just a click. It’s not only available in Taiwan but Hong Kong, Kuala Lumpur, Okinawa, Tokyo, Osaka, and Bangkok.

FunNow provides low prices, quality services, and locations that are hand-picked for your convenience. The application has an average rating of 4.3 on Google Play and has received thousands of reviews from users. It has also been featured on CNBC, Vogue, and many other magazines.

YouBike is a public bicycle rental application, they provide countless of bicycles all over Taipei. Renting a bicycle can be a great choice if you want to see and explore more of Taipei and don’t spend excessive time in the subway.

It only costs NTD 10 (USD 0.32) to use YouBike for 30 minutes, thus, it allows you to save money at the same time as you get some good exercise. They have hundreds of stations and you can find bicycles within a short distance.

You can download the application on their website , Google Play, and in the Apple Store.

10. Taiwan Weather

Taiwan weather is a highly acclaimed weather application that gives you the latest weather forecasts. It can be wise to download this application to avoid sudden storms and rainfall. The application is available in English and Chinese and provide information about (examples):

• Current conditions
• 7-day and 3-hr forecasts and charts
• Sunrise and sunset
• Current observation and latest 24-hour data
• Air quality

The application has an average rating of 4.5 and has received more than 11,000 reviews, which speaks for itself. It’s user-friendly and provide accurate information. You can decide whether you want to receive push-notifications or not.

11. Travel Taipei

Travel Taipei provides information about upcoming events, exhibitions, shows, and the latest news. By using the application, you can receive plenty of information about restaurants, accommodation, shopping, and entertainment.

The application checks your current location and shows fun and interesting places nearby, instantly. Compared to most of the other applications listed above, the Travel Taipei app is fairly new and hasn’t received as many reviews yet.

12. Taiwan GuideWithMe

Taiwan GuideWithMe is an offline travel guide that recommends articles according to your location. Being developed by travelers for travelers, it provides warnings, get around guides, general advice, off the beaten track advice, hotel and restaurant recommendations, and much more.

One of the benefits of using the application is that you don’t need any internet and can avoid expensive roaming costs. The information is continuously updated by travelers that have visited certain areas.

The application is also used in Italy, France, Spain, Russia, Turkey, Switzerland, Japan, and other countries in the world.

13. Agoda, Booking, and Airbnb

Booking is one of the biggest hotel-booking websites in the world , having more than 140,000 listings. It’s a popular application thanks to its modern interface and neat features. Simply download the application and input your price range, the number of travelers, and the location where you wish to stay.

Booking will then show you the top-rated results available, often including discounts.

If you register with Booking, you’ll be able to see all the bookings you made previously. Also, you’ll get access to the following in some locations:

• A barcode to be used for discounts when visiting the main attractions
• You can become a “Genius”-user after booking a certain amount of properties. You’ll also get discounts

Agoda is similar to Booking, in fact, they are owned by the same parent company. The website has 39,422 hotels available in Taiwan at the moment I’m writing this article, including locations such as Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung, Tainan, and Yilan.

Both Agoda and Booking offer discounts, but you can generally find better deals on Agoda. Having said that, you also need to pay for everything upfront most of the time, which can be troublesome if you want to cancel the stay.

It’s worth having a look at both Booking and Agoda, before you book your accommodation.

If you want to have a more local and genuine experience you can also book a unit on Airbnb . The rates can be as low as USD 20 per night in Taipei City and there are plenty of options available.

The benefit of using Airbnb is that you have more freedom as you can cook food, do the laundry, and more. It’s generally cheaper as well. Since a couple of years back, Airbnb has started to offer ‘experiences’, including everything from cooking classes, guided tours, Taiwanese tea tasting, and more.

It’s worth having a look at Airbnb if you’re on a strict budget and want a more local experience.

[Photo Credits ( Creative Commons CC0 ): Pixabay.com]

About The Author

Sergi Portolés

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Taiwan , Tips & Inspo · March 28, 2023

12 Best Travel Apps for Taiwan You Need to Have

Taiwan is a fascinating and diverse country, filled with bustling cities, breathtaking natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. However, traveling to a different country can be overwhelming, especially if you’re unfamiliar with the language and culture. Luckily, there are a couple of travel apps for Taiwan that can help you have a smoother trip and ultimately make the most of your time in Taiwan!

In this blog post, I’ll share the best Taiwan travel apps – from navigation and translation apps to food and transportation apps. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or visiting Taiwan for the first time, these apps will help you navigate the country and discover all it offers!

Disclaimer: This post probably contains affiliate links. When you make a purchase through one of these links, I might receive a tiny commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Affiliate I earn from qualifying purchases.

Table of Contents

12 Must-Have Apps for Traveling in Taiwan

Google maps.

Google Maps is a must-have app for any traveler, and it’s especially useful in Taiwan. The app provides accurate and up-to-date information on public transportation (bus, train, and metro), walking, and driving directions for both cars and scooters.

It also has a feature that allows you to download maps for offline use, which is great for travelers who don’t want to use their data while exploring Taiwan.

Although Google Maps is pretty accurate with its directions across Taiwan, it can sometimes take you on a detour, but that can also be part of the adventure!

IOS | Android

Google Translate

Chinese is the official language of Taiwan, and while most locals can speak some basic English, the language barrier in Taiwan can impact your trip. The easiest way to avoid getting lost in translation is to download Google Translate to your phone. While you could easily use the text function, instantly scanning text with the camera function to translate it and the simultaneous speech translation function are other bonuses.

Make sure you set the translation to traditional Chinese and not simplified Chinese, which is used in China. Also, if you’re not going to buy a local sim card, make sure to download Chinese beforehand on the app so that you can translate without an internet connection.

Taiwan Railway

Taiwan has an extensive railway network, which can be confusing for first-time visitors. Luckily, the Taiwan Railway app can help you check timetables, train numbers, delays, traveling time, and ticket prices.

The app is super easy to use, but you need to know exactly where you’re traveling from and which station you’re headed to. Luckily, that can quickly be figured out with the help of Google Maps. Once you have the exact deets, go into the app and select your departure and arrival stations and date of travel. All the trains that travel on that specific day will pop up with their train numbers, duration, and cost.

The only downside is that you cannot actually book train tickets on the app. With that said, it’s still a great planning tool and will undoubtedly come in handy if you’ve missed a train.

The high-speed rail is the most convenient (and fastest) way to travel between the north and south of the island’s western coastline. And chances are you will need to use it sometimet during your Taiwan itinerary .

While you can book tickets directly at any station or even on their website, having the app on your phone will make your travels much easier. Not only will you be able to book tickets anywhere, anytime, but you’ll never have to stand in long lines again!

The app’s main features include easy-to-understand timetables & fares, instant payments, cancellations, and even modifications. However, the best perk about this app is that you can purchase tickets up to 5 minutes before a train departs. Another awesome feature is that you can opt to get a mobile ticket, which you simply scan at the gates. That way, you’ll save even more time and do your bit to help minimize paper usage!

You’re probably already familiar with this one, but Uber is another super useful app when traveling in Taiwan.

Whether you’re going from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei or just quickly want to get from A to B in the bigger cities, you can easily request a ride with the tap of a button. The great thing about Uber is that you’ll know exactly how much the ride will cost you upfront, and since you can connect it to your bank card, you won’t need to worry about carrying cash around with you.

While Uber is generally a bit cheaper than a yellow taxi, that is not always the case if you travel long distances. If you want to travel to less touristy spots, comparing prices on other apps like FindTaxi or 55688 might be worthwhile..

If you’re looking for a great travel app that allows you to book sightseeing tours and must-do activities while in Taiwan, you’ll want to download Klook . 

This travel app offers a variety of tours and experiences in Taiwan – from food tours and cultural activities to day trip excursions and even multi-day trips! 

The best part? The app also provides instant confirmation on selected bookings, and you can easily cancel or amend your booking if your plans change. Just remember to read the fine print carefully, as some excursions require a minimum number of participants to proceed. 

You probably already have a hotel booking app on your phone, but if you’re traveling in Taiwan, Agoda is the go-to app for the best accommodation deals.

Their prices are generally lower than other platforms like Booking.com and Hotels Combined, and the app even features better deals than their actual website. Also, you won’t need to worry about hidden costs as the quoted price usually includes taxes.

Like other booking platforms, you can manage bookings right in the app and communicate with your hotel.

Go! Taipei Metro

If you’re going to spend a few days in Taipei , you’re definitely going to need the Go! Taipei Metro app.

It provides the entire route map of the Taipei metro system, but it also has a bunch of added features to help you travel more easily. These include station exit information, schedules for the next train, transfer information for buses, parking, and even nearby YouBike stations. Another great feature is the journey planner, which helps you calculate the fastest route to your destination.

While most people around the world use Whatsapp to communicate with friends and loved ones, Line is the go-to messaging app in Taiwan. 

Like other communication apps, Line allows you to make voice and video calls and send voice notes or text messages. However, what really sets Line apart from other messaging apps is that it has a whole host of cool icons, animated stickers with sound, and even customizable templates that allow you to change the app’s background and display. 

Uber Eats & Food Panda

Taiwan is a mecca for foodies! So you should definitely visit its famous night markets  and sample as much as possible at local restaurants, eateries, and cafes. With that said, there might be days you want to skip going out or bother with translating menus.

Uber Eats and Food Panda takes care of this by allowing you to order food from a myriad of restaurants and grocery stores in just a few clicks. Both apps allow you to link your card to the app, so you never have to worry about having the exact amount for the driver.

Uber: IOS | Android

Food Panda: IOS | Android

Xe Currency Converter

When visiting a different country, having a currency converter on hand is always useful to help you keep travel of your finances.

XE Currency Converter takes the guesswork (and math) out of trying to figure out how much money you’re actually spending. The app is easy to use and converts exchange rates from roughly 130 currencies.

YouBike 2.0

The YouBike 2.0 app is another great useful app when visiting Taiwan. YouBike is Taiwan’s official bike-sharing system, and you’ll find dozens of stations in all major cities like Taipei , Taichung , Hsinchu , Kaohsiung , Tainan , Chiayi, Pingtung, and Miaoli.

The app has an interactive map making it easy to locate bike stations near you and see how many bikes are available at each station. The app will even show you if any electric bicycles (the orange and white bikes) are available and how fully charged they are.

Another perk about the YouBike 2.0 app is that it is available in English, making it super easy to use. The app also lets you view rental info, rates, and much more in just a few clicks.

You don’t necessarily need to register for the app to use it, but you will need to register at the docking station to rent a bike. Make sure you have an Easy Card and a local number to do this. Otherwise, you’ll need a credit card to sign the bike out. The holding fee is TWD 2000 for YouBike 1.0 and TWD 3000 for YouBike 2.0.

Taiwan Travel Apps in Conclusion 

Taiwan is an amazing destination, and with a little help from the travel apps mentioned above, you’ll easily navigate the cities, communicate with locals, find the best tours and get the best deals on places to stay!

Well, that wraps up this quick guide to the best travel apps to use in Taiwan! If you have any other suggestions for must-use travel apps in Taiwan, let me know in the comments below!

If you found this Taiwan travel apps guide useful, don’t forget to save it for your future trip!

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November 17, 2023 at

Greetings from Singapore! When making payments on the KLOOK website from your home country, do you opt to pay in your home currency or the destination currency? How about when you are at your destination country? I am using a credit card that does not charge any foreign transaction fees. Thank you!

November 22, 2023 at

Hey Al, I usually just do it in my home currency as the prices on my app are set up like that. If your credit card doesn’t charge you any foreign transaction fees, then I guess you can use either way.

March 1, 2024 at

Although we came from Taiwan, but that was for a long time ago. We plan to travel there in April, your write-up will certainly be useful. My question is that do you down load some of the Taiwan specific apps here or do so after you get there? The Taiwan specific apps are sych as Taiwan Railway, T-Express, Go! Taipei Metro, etc.

Hi Chaw-Bing, I’m not sure if some of them have access limitations outside of Taiwan, but try to download them beforehand. That way, you won’t have to worry about cutting into your data usage while here.

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The Best Apps for Taiwan (travel, dating, food & shopping!)

One of the most frequently asked questions about Taiwan I receive in my Taiwan Travel Planning group is: What apps should I download for Taiwan?

Instead of answering this question again and again, I’ve put together this of Taiwan apps I always use, plus more that are regularly recommended by other travelers.

I’ve categorizes these into the top-5 Taiwan apps, general travel apps, transportation, communication, food, shopping, and dating in Taiwan. A quick warning, though: some apps in Taiwan are pretty terrible, so I’ll include my honest thoughts below!

Use the Table of Contents below to jump to whatever you need!

Table of Contents

Quick List: 11 Essential Apps Taiwan Apps

If I could download only 11 apps for my Taiwan trip, it would be these:

FindTaxi – Taiwan Taxi Finder

• GoogleTranslate or Papago

Taiwan Weather

Go taipei metro.

I’ll explain each of these apps in detail below. I’ll also introduce several other optional Taiwan apps that you may or may not want to download.

If you’re planning a trip to Taiwan, also see my guides to the best SIM for Taiwan , current visa requirements , and the best budget flights to Taiwan .

Fun fact: People in Taiwan don’t day “app” as a single syllable like in English. They say A-P-P (they say each letter individually, as if it were an acronym). Read other Taiwan facts here !

General Travel Apps

Use these apps to book your hotels, tours, drivers, discounted attraction and train tickets, travel passes, and other activities in Taiwan.

Klook is my most recommended app for general travel in Taiwan. It is the best place to find travel passes like EasyCard (read my EasyCard guide ), Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass , SIM cards , discounted HSR tickets , private drivers , car rentals , day tours, hotels, and highly discounted tickets for various attractions in Taiwan .

Klook is a Hong Kong-based company and is the most popular platform for all these things among visitors to Taiwan. If you sign up with this link , you’ll get a free credit applied to your first booking. After you sign up, you can also invite your friends with your own link, then you’ll receive more credits for yourself!

Download Klook for Apple / Android

KKDay is very similar to Klook, but it is a Taiwanese company. You can find a lot of the exact same tours on both platforms. Because KKday is Taiwanese, you can often find even more activities on there than on Klook. For example, only KKday has domestic flights in Taiwan .

However, I usually recommend Klook first because I find its interface more user-friendly and it has more detailed English instructions. KKday often has very poor translations, or some pages don’t even have English.

After you download the app, use the discount code APP5OFF to get 5% off your first order.

For both Klook and KKday, many of their tours have a minimum requirement for people. If this is not met, they might cancel your tour only a few days before. If you go with more popular ones (you can judge by the number of reviews), this is less likely to happen.

Other platforms like GetYourGuide and Viator also have similar activities in Taiwan, but I find they are often more expensive and have fewer choices. These two apps are much more popular in Europe and North America.

Download KKday for Apple / Android

Booking.com is my favorite app for booking hotels in Taiwan. I’ve always preferred its interface, map function, clear policies, and so on.

Although many locals in Taiwan book hotels directly with the owner, I don’t recommend this for foreign travelers. Local hotels will often ask for a deposit by ATM transfer to hold the room, which you can’t easily or cheaply do if you don’t have a Taiwanese bank account. They will also want to communicate by LINE app (see communication apps below) but their English may be limited. Lastly, if you need to cancel, it could get complicated.

All of these things can be done more easily on Booking, and the cancelation policy is always clearly stated.

The Booking app is fine, but I personally prefer using the desktop version when I’m searching for and booking hotels because it’s just faster and easier.

See my guide to the best hotels in Taipei to find the best hotels by area in the city.

Download Booking for Apple / Android

While I’m not as much of a fan of Agoda’s interface, some people prefer it. On the plus side, Agoda sometimes has more smaller hotels than Booking does, and its prices for Taiwan and other countries in Asia are sometimes slightly lower than the exact same hotels on Booking.

It doesn’t hurt to try both Booking and Agoda. But personally, I prefer to book all my hotels on the same platform so I can find them all in one place.

Download Agoda for Apple / Android

What about Airbnb? Well, Airbnb is technically not legal in Taiwan. Still, it’s commonly used and there are lots of properties listed on it. Go ahead and give it a try if you are looking for more of an apartment-style accommodation. But if anything goes wrong, you won’t have much legal sway, and I personally try to avoid using this app for various reasons.

Taiwan’s weather is famously unpredictable. No app ever seems to get it totally right. But if you want a Taiwan-specific weather app, the Central Weather Bureau’s Taiwan Weather app is the best you’ll find.

You can find weather info and forecasts by district (not just a sweeping guess for all of one city), sunrise and sunset times, wind, pressure, air quality maps, and clothing suggestions. For serious weather nerds, they’ve even got prognostic wave charts and more. For more weather information, see my guide to when to visit Taiwan .

Download Taiwan Weather for Apple / Android

If you’re not sure what the best way to get money in Taiwan is, consider applying for a Wise travel card and using the Wise app.

Withdrawing cash from an ATM in Taiwan using your home country’s bank card is usually my most recommended way. With a Wise card, you can do the same thing, but with lower fees and a better exchange rate than with a normal bank card.

The first step is to download the app or use the desktop version and sign up for Wise . You’ll need to upload ID to prove your identity and connect your bank account. Then you can use the app to transfer cash from your bank account to Wise account for withdrawing abroad. They’ll mail you your Wise card (mine is neon green!) within a few weeks.

Download Wise for Apple / Android

Transportation Apps

Here are my recommended apps for getting around and planning your journeys around Taiwan.

I can’t overstate just how much I use GoogleMaps in Taiwan. It is by far my most used app in Taiwan. Besides finding the way, I use it for bus/train times, route planning and travel time estimations for different times of the day, finding things to do or places to eat in the area I’m staying, and reading reviews of hotels, restaurants, and attractions.

It’s pretty much a must for driving in Taiwan , and rental cars and scooters come with phone holders.

Is GoogleMaps accurate in Taiwan? Overall, yes! And it is constantly getting better over time. However, for bus and train times, it only displays set schedules. So if a bus or train is early or late, it won’t be updated with that information.

Also, for route planning, it will usually give you the fastest but not always best or most logical way. For example, in Taipei, it might give you a complicated series of local buses to get somewhere, whereas most people would just hop in the MRT because that’s easier.

For serious planners like me, I also recommend making a custom map for cities you are visiting.

For example, if you plan to see many different spots in Taipei, but you’re having trouble putting it all together into logical schedule, you can create a custom map and with color-coded pins for the different restaurants, attractions, hotels, and so on that you want to visit. This can help you to visualize and group things together for efficient itinerary planning.  

Download GoogleMaps for Apple / Android

YouBike 2.0

YouBike 2.0 (YouBike微笑單車2.0 官方版) is the most current app for accessing the YouBike (UBike) bike sharing program in Taiwan (YouBike 1.0 is being phased out).

These are the iconic white and yellow (2.0) and orange and yellow (1.0) bikes, made by local manufacturer Giant, which you will see everywhere. They can be rented from docking stations throughout Taipei and in other major cities in Taiwan ( New Taipei , Taoyuan , Hsinchu , Taichung , Chiayi , Tainan , Kaohsiung , and Pingtung ).

For short term visitors, you can choose the single rental option and sign the bike out with a credit card. You can ride up to 120 hours in this way. There will be a TWD 3000 hold on your credit card until you return the bike. If you plan to use YouBikes a lot or you live in Taiwan, then it is better to register (Taiwan phone number required). Then you’ll be able to connect an EasyCard to your account for easier rental – just swiping to take out and return the bikes.

The app has a map for finding available YouBikes, rental instructions, equipment guide, and more. Find more details and screenshots of the steps to register in my YouBike guide .

Download YouBike 2.0 for Apple / Android

Thankfully, there is now an English app for ordering taxis in Taiwan: FindTaxi – Taiwan Taxi Finder. The super common taxi app used by most locals, 5568 台灣大車隊 , is in Mandarin only and requires you to register with a phone number (note: after signing up in Mandarin, it does have an option to switch it to English).

In busy city areas in Taiwan, it’s usually very easy to hail a taxi on the street. However, in smaller cities, towns, countryside, etc., the FindTaxi app is a blessing for those who can’t read or speak Mandarin. You can also pre-order a taxi for later or order one for your friends.

Keep in mind that only some taxis take EasyCard, so make sure you have cash on you just in case. Also, like any taxi app, just having the app doesn’t necessarily mean one will be able to come get you anywhere in Taiwan – there will need to be a taxi available nearby who is willing to come.

Note that you will need a local number to sign up for this app – which means you’ll need to have a SIM card in Taiwan .

Download FindTaxi – Taiwan Taxi Finder for Apple / Android

Uber is the only major (non-taxi) ride-hailing app you’ll find in Taiwan. It’s not very popular in Taiwan for legal reasons and because most locals just yellow regular taxis.

However, for visitors, it’s very useful given that you can just enter your destination, pay though your account, and especially because many local taxi drivers can’t speak English.

Also, compared to regular taxis, Ubers tend to be newer and cleaner vehicles, while regular taxis can range from clean to grotty. The price of Ubers isn’t necessarily lower than regular taxis though, and a peak times, it could be higher.

Ubers can only be found in major city centers in Taiwan. In smaller towns, countryside, or mountain areas, forget about it. Your Uber account from home should work in Taiwan, so no local number needed.

Download Uber for Apple / Android

If you’re looking for a private driver for a longer ride in Taiwan, whether it’s for a point-to-point trip between cities or a multi-day trip, there are some legal and insurance issues to be aware of. I elaborate on all of this and give my private driver recommendations for Taiwan here .

If you still can’t find what you’re looking for in my guide, then try the Tripool app . Use this app to find drivers between cities in Taiwan. You can hire them for point-to-point trips or, if you want to make stops, for an hourly rate. Any questions you might have about the service are answered here . Note that there is a small surcharge for high altitude areas like Alishan .

Use Tripool website here or Download for Apple / Android

For all your Taipei MRT needs, this app has it all. One click will bring you to a high-resolution map of all the MRT lines, which is probably what you will use most. Choose ‘adult fare’ then any station on the map to see the price to all other stations on the map. The same goes for travel times.

Under ‘station information’ you can see upcoming arrivals, info on all the exits (including which ones have elevators/escalators), and other station facilities like info counters, restrooms, breastfeeding rooms, and diaper changing stations. Last but not least, you can also get info on bus connections, planning the best route from point A to point B, and which stations do/don’t allow bicycles.

The Taichung and Kaohsiung MRTs are much less complicated, so you won’t need an app for them. Just save a current map of their lines to your phone and that should be enough.

Note that the Airport MRT to Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is run by Taoyuan city, not Taipei. See more info in my guide to getting from Taipei to Taoyuan Airport .

Download Go! Taipei Metro for Apple / Android

臺鐵e訂通 (Taiwan Railways App)

The 臺鐵e訂通 app, released by the official TRA train company, is the only way to get e-tickets for TRA trains in Taiwan. Unfortunately, though, the app is absolutely TERRIBLE, and countless reviewers (in both English and Mandarin-speaking locals) have reported major problems using it. That’s why I wrote this whole guide explaining how to book mobile train tickets in Taiwan . My screenshots will guide you through the painful process.

Where should I start with this app…First, the Taiwan Transportation Bureau clearly made the app in Mandarin first, then only translated some of it to English (and very badly). So you may get important pop-ups in Mandarin that you can’t even read. However, even when I asked my wife (native-Mandarin speaker) to read the Chinese instructions for using this app, she was unable to understand much of it.

Second, people have reported that their payment didn’t seem to work. Then they don’t even know if their ticket is booked or not. Third, if you have any problem with the app or your phone and aren’t able to show your ticket at the station, you won’t be able to enter and will have to buy a new ticket on the spot. If you’re already on the train and the conductor checks and that happens, you could be fined.

Also, screenshots of the ticket are not OK – only showing the QR code inside the app is OK. Fourth, if you buy tickets for other people (like your family), each person has to show their ticket on their own phone – you can’t show multiple tickets with one phone. There’s a function in the app for transfering tickets to other people, but it is hard to use (good luck!). Fifth, if you’re traveling with kids who don’t have a phone, then too bad for them (note: kids under 6 ride free so they don’t need a ticket).

There are many other complaints about the app, and it only has a 2.3 rating on Google Play (and 1.9 on Apple apps). Please note, because I don’t recommend this app, please don’t email/message me/post in my FB group asking for help if you run into problems with this app, as many already have. I should point out, though, that a few solo travelers have reported to me after I published this post, saying that they were able to use the app to buy all their train tickets around Taiwan, with no major problems. So it is possible!

One more thing to note about this app but also the official TRA website: If you search for a ticket and enter your passport number but don’t complete the reservation (i.e. pay for it) three times, the system will “blacklist” you. Then you won’t be able to book any more train tickets with that passport number for 30 days. So only search the timetables section of the app, and don’t go as far as entering your passport info until you’re really ready to book!

If you only want to search TRA timetables/train times and not actually book them, then I recommend the Taiwan Railway Timetable App instead.

Download 臺鐵e訂通 for Apple / Android Use the Official TRA site (recommended) Download Taiwan Railway Timetable for Apple / Android

You can book HSR tickets on the official HSR website or on Klook . The only downside to these is that you still have to pick up physical tickets from a convenience store or the train station in Taiwan before your train ride. Also, buying on Klook is a longer process that involves buying a voucher, then redeeming that voucher to reserve your seats.

The only way to get digital/e-tickets for the HSR in Taiwan is by using the T Express (台灣高鐵 T Express行動購票服務) app. These tickets are simply scanned on your phone when you enter the station. You can buy tickets on the app up to 5 minutes before a train’s departure.

You can buy a maximum of 10 tickets (5 round-trip tickets) at once. The same early bird discounts that are available on the official site are also available on the app (35, 25, or 10% off, depending on how early you book, up to 28 days in advance).

So are there any downsides? Like many other apps made in Taiwan, there is some bad English, vague wording, and you may find it a little hard to navigate the app at first.

It can be especially confusing for trying to transfer tickets that you bought for other passengers – each passenger has to show their ticket on their own phone. If your kid doesn’t have a phone, they won’t be able to get an eticket.

Also, some people report that the app won’t accept their international credit cards. I provide step-by-step instructions for using the app in my guide to reserving HSR tickets in Taiwan .

Overall, this app is better than the TRA one, but I still don’t love it. This app has also a very low rating of 2.6 on GooglePlay, so don’t be surprised if you encounter problems with it. But if you just want to make a simple and quick booking for yourself, it should be OK.

Download T Express for Apple / Android Official HSR site Discount HSR tickets on Klook

While I don’t personally use this app, several travelers have told me that the Bus+ app is more reliable than GoogleMaps for finding bus times in Taiwan. It is also highly rated (4.6), so that says a lot.

Use this app to find bus stops near you, see which buses are coming next, see all the stops they’ll make and at what time, or to look up any bus in Taiwan by number. Besides buses, the app also allows you to search for bike rentals across the country and look up train times, but if you click HSR, it will just send you over to Klook.

If you often take the same bus, you can even set it to show the upcoming bus times on your home screen without the need to unlock your phone.

Download Bus+ for Apple / Android

There is a dedicated app for Alishan , Taiwan’s most popular tourist resort and forest recreation area. How to get to Alishan is often the most complicated or confusing part of visitors’ Taiwan trip.

Unfortunately, Alipedia won’t be able to answer most of your questions. For that, I recommend reading my guide to how to get to Alishan , my table of bus times to Alishan , and how to book Alishan bus tickets at FamilyMart . Like many made-in-Taiwan apps, Alipedia only has limited/poor English, tons of missing info, and is not user-friendly.

One useful things this app does offer, though, is Alishan sunrise times through the year and the departure time for the next day’s sunrise train (the train schedule changes throughout the year due to changing sunrise time). The next day’s train time is released daily at 4:30 PM.  

To find this info, navigate to “tour info”, “transportation”, then change to “Duigaoyue Line” (usually this is called Zhushan Line, named after the Zhushan sunrise viewpoint, but currently that station is being renovated, so the train only goes to Duigaoyue, from where you can also see the sunrise or walk to Zhushan).

The app also covers train prices, shuttle bus times (no set times for these, just a range), weather, current flower blooming status, emergency hotline, and more. However, to plan your entire Alishan trip, you’ll find far more information in my Alishan guide .

Download Alipedia for Apple / Android

Communication Apps

Here are my recommended apps for instant messaging, calls, and translations in Taiwan.

LINE is East Asia’s answer to WhatsApp in the West or WeChat in China (don’t bother with the latter two apps if you’re coming to Taiwan!).

LINE was developed in South Korea and is universally used in Taiwan for instant messaging, group chats, and free calls/video calls between users. It is far more popular and common that Messenger or regular text messaging, which are almost never used in Taiwan.

The app’s sticker characters are stars in Taiwan – you can even see them painted in the sky by drones at the annual Penghu Fireworks Festival . There are many other cuter (and noisier) stickers available for purchase in the app.

For travelers, I recommend downloading LINE because many hotels in Taiwan will want to communicate with you through it. If you make any Taiwanese friends, that will be their preferred contact info to exchange, as well. But if you don’t plan to use it after your trip, ask for their Instagram details instead. You may also need it to communicate with drivers (if you hire any) and some hotels take reservations by LINE. 

Because some hotels may only be able to communicate in Mandarin, there are a few add-ons that can assist with translation within this app. One way is to scan this QR code to add this translator as a “friend”. Then add that friend to any conversation and it will automatically translated the conversation between English and Chinese! Another similar option is to use the Ligo LINE translator .

Download LINE for Apple / Android

If you didn’t get any data with your SIM card in Taiwan (or you got a WiFi device , or neither of these), then you won’t be able to make any phone calls in Taiwan. You’ll probably be fine, but just in case, you can download the Skype app.

Skype allows you to make phone calls within the country or to any other country in the world for free (if both sides using Skype) or extremely low rates. Besides when traveling, I even use this at home for making international calls. I just pre-pay around $10 at a time, and that lasts for a while.

Download SKYPE for Apple / Android

GoogleTranslate

Unless you are a native Mandarin speaker, you’ll probably need a translation app when traveling in Taiwan. In fact, the more your Chinese improves, the more you’ll find yourself using such apps.

I recommend either GoogleTranslate or Naver Papago (see next entry). They mostly have the same functions, so it’s just a matter or trying them both and seeing which one you prefer. For either one, make sure to set the language to Traditional Mandarin characters (中文繁體字). Simplified is not used in Taiwan. Most locals can read it a little, but not well. You won’t find anything for the Taiwanese language , but Mandarin will do in the majority of cases.

GoogleTranslate is of course the better known of these two apps. One amazing feature is that you can use your phone’s microphone to have a two-way conversation between an English speaker and a Mandarin speaker. Another is that you can turn on the camera and scan any Mandarin words (menu, signs, etc.) and see them instantly translated to English on your phone’s screen, without even needing to take a picture.

You can also download the Chinese file so these features will work offline.

Download GoogleTranslate for Apple / Android

Naver Papago

Naver’s Papago app can do all the same things as GoogleMaps, including offline translation. But since this app specializes at Asian languages, the translations are often better or more accurate than GoogleTranslate (we’ve all experienced awkward or terrible GoogleTranslate outputs…)

This app also includes a website translation feature, a phrasebook and practice cards for language learners, and a children’s section. Generally speaking, anyone who already has some knowledge of Mandarin will probably be more impressed with Papago than GoogleTranslate, but most people out there are more familiar with GoogleTranslate.

Download Naver Papago for Apple / Android

Pleco is an English-Mandarin dictionary app. As someone who has been learning Mandarin for years, I use this app all the time for looking up words. Besides individual words, it also works for phrases or whole sentences, and it can read them out loud.

The dictionary shows traditional first and simplified in parentheses for every character (I wish there was a choice to just show traditional only, though). It also has options for pinyin/zhuyin and Cantonese. There are also paid add-ons if you’re getting more serious about learning Chinese.

If you aren’t actively learning Mandarin, though, you’ll probably just stick with one of the translation apps above.

Download Pleco for Apple / Android

Use these two apps for your food ordering or pick-up needs in Taiwan. A branded scooter will be on its way with your food! Both are extremely popular and versatile, so which one you choose will be a matter of personal preference. Already popular before COVID, these app’s usage and popularity have only skyrocketed since.

One challenge is that there is a limited English in the food descriptions in both of these apps. Just use one of the translation apps I recommended above! Will your foreign credit card work, though? In my experience, sometimes yes, sometimes no.

Should you tip food deliverers in Taiwan? Find out in my Taiwan tipping guide .

You can buy just about anything on UberEats in Taiwan: bubble tea, groceries, fast food, street food , 7-Eleven products, and of course regular restaurant meals (see my guide to the best restaurants in Taipei !)

Like UberEats elsewhere, once you sign up you’ll often receive discount codes by email. And of course it is owned by Uber, but UberEats is far more popular than the regular Uber (ride service) in Taiwan.

Download UberEats for Apple / Android

Singapore-based FoodPanda is the main rival to UberEats in Taiwan. They are the ones with bright pink scooters.

FoodPanda started in Singapore and is extremely popular in Taiwan and other countries in Asia. There isn’t a major difference between the two apps. FoodPanda seems to have more options, especially smaller restaurants and street food, and tends to offer more in-app discounts.

Download FoodPanda for Apple / Android

Shopping Apps

Shopping apps are not my forte. But based on my research, the following are currently the most popular shopping apps in Taiwan. English on most of them is limited or non-existent. Foreign credit cards often don’t work, but it’s still worth trying.

• Shopee : Currently the most popular for clothing and pretty much anything else. Users from other parts of Asia will already be familiar with this Singapore-based company.
• Momo Shop : The second most popular.
• Ruten : Most popular online auction site.
• PChome : For home products and much more.
• Books.com.tw : For books and more.
• Yahoo! Taiwan Shopping : Yes, people in Taiwan and Japan are still using Yahoo!

Related: see my guide to the best souvenirs from Taiwan !

Dating Apps

Looking to meet a special someone in Taiwan? Here are the best English language dating apps in Taiwan, but you’ll find plenty of locals on them, too!

Since I’ve been married for over a decade, I’ve never personally used any of these (I swear!) So I’ve asked my friends in Taiwan what’s hottest right now.

• Bumble : Seems to be the most popular among travelers and expats in Taiwan, not just for dating but also finding friends and networking
• Hinge : Also popular among travelers, but few locals on it
• Tinder : For getting right to the point, popular among locals and travelers
• ParPar – 激情約會 | 浪漫交友 : Most popular app for hookups among locals (Mandarin-only)
• Coffee Meets Bagel : For serious dating
• OKCupid : Becoming more outdated but still used a little in Taiwan
• Grindr and Jack’d : for LGBTQ+ dating

There you go, folks. Those are my top recommended apps for traveling or living in Taiwan . If I missed any that you consider essential, please let me know in the comments below!

The Most Common Taiwan Travel FAQs

33 surprising facts about taiwan, 3 thoughts on “the best apps for taiwan (travel, dating, food & shopping)”.

Thanks for the detailed information! Tripool also provides Android/iOS apps. In my experience, it’s easier to communicate with the driver through the app. Messaging in the app was super helpful. I picked up my luggage 30 minutes earlier than I expected, and the driver was already at the airport waiting for me. He kindly agreed to start the ride earlier than arranged.

Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=app.tripool.client&hl=en_US Apple: https://apps.apple.com/tw/app/id1577319798

Thanks, I’ll added the links to the article!

Was a pleasure to read your informations 🙂 … i feel prepaired for Taiwan now 🇹🇼. Thx 🙏🏻

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Top Apps To Use in Taiwan As A Foreigner

Table of Contents

Finding your way around Taiwan as a foreigner can sometimes feel like a challenge. Especially when you don’t speak the language fluently. However, having the right apps on your phone will make life a lot easier for travelers and expats.

This article walks you through the top apps that will significantly enhance your stay in Taiwan. Of course there are lots of different apps available, however to not overwhelm you with options, we’ll stick to the most essential ones.

Essential apps for travel in Taiwan

Exploring Taiwan becomes a lot easier with the right apps on your phone. These essential apps will guide you through your adventures here:

This is one of my personal favorite apps to use in Taiwan. YouBike2.0 transforms your city exploration in Taiwan by providing an efficient and eco-friendly bike sharing system.

With its user-friendly app, you can easily locate one of the hundreds of YouBike stations across major cities including Taipei, New Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Taichung. The app also tells you how many You Bikes there are available at the station.

This service not only offers a sustainable travel option, but also gives you the freedom to discover hidden gems at your own pace.

Cycling through Taiwan becomes an unforgettable part of your journey as it connects you more intimately with the local culture and landscapes. Embracing this transportation option significantly enhances your travel experience in Taiwan.

IOS  |  Android

Go! Taipei Metro

Exploring Taipei becomes a lot easier with the Go! Taipei Metro app, your essential guide to navigating the city’s subway system. This user-friendly app offers a detailed route map of the entire metro network, ensuring you find your way around.

The station exit guide feature particularly helps in planning efficient trips around town, making sure you leave from the right exit for easier access to nearby attractions.

With this must-have app among your Taiwan travel essentials, mastering the complex yet efficient city subway system becomes more straightforward. Taiwan’s efficient public transport system is one of the reasons why it’s so worth visiting .

FindTaxi / Uber

After exploring the city with Go! Taipei Metro, you might need a more direct way to reach specific destinations not covered by the metro system. This is where FindTaxi and Uber come in handy, offering reliable transportation services that fill this gap perfectly.

These apps provide easy travel around Taiwan with just a few taps on your smartphone, making them indispensable for both short trips within cities and longer journeys across different parts of the island.

FindTaxi and Uber stand out as essential travel apps due to their convenience and reliability.

Uber: IOS  |  Android

Taiwan Railway

Exploring Taiwan by train just got a whole lot easier with the Taiwan Railway app. This official app from Taiwan Railway Corporation, Ltd keeps you up-to-date on train schedules, railway travel times, and even unexpected delays.

The app shines as an essential companion for travellers keen on making the most out of their railway journeys across Taiwan. It offers detailed travel information that can help plan trips more effectively.

T-Express stands out as an invaluable tool for anyone looking to travel across Taiwan by train. This app simplifies the process of navigating the Taiwan Railway system, making it effortless to purchase tickets and secure reservations right from your smartphone.

Dubbed “T-EX 行動購票 & 台鐵e訂通,” T-Express has earned its place as a must-have application for accessing public transportation in this island nation.

Whether you’re hopping on a train to explore the streets of Taipei or setting off towards Hualien , T-Express makes your travel adventures in Taiwan a lot easier.

Download LINE, Taiwan’s most popular messenger app, before you pack your bags. It’s not just any chat app; it’s a vital tool for staying connected in Taiwan.

Locals use it for everything from messaging to sharing news and photos on its social media features. It reminds me a bit of WeChat, one of the best apps to download in China .

So make sure you have it on your phone to communicate effortlessly with new friends.

Uber Eats / Food Panda

For ordering food, download Uber Eats and Food Panda. Both apps offer a reliable and efficient way to access a wide variety of food options, from local Taiwanese specialities to international cuisines, all at your fingertips.

With both options available, you can easily compare menus, prices, and delivery times to choose whatever suits you best.

Uber:   IOS  |  Android

Food Panda:   IOS  |  Android

Klook is a widely used app for travelers in Taiwan. One of the things it simplifies is booking transportation and tours. For example, if you want to book a tour to the maginificent Taroko Gorge , you could hire a driver or book a tour through Klook.

It’s a secure platform for all your travel bookings, providing a smooth way to plan out each day of your journey.

IOS  |  Android

Google Maps / maps.me

Luckily, Google Maps is available here and works sufficiently. It’s an essential app for anyone moving around Taiwan’s dynamic cities and scenic landscapes.

It offers accurate, up-to-date information on various locations and directions, making exploring a breeze. Whether you’re looking for the best routes by public transport, walking, or driving, Google Maps has got you covered.

Besides Google Maps, maps.me is another essential navigation tool that enhances your Taiwanese adventure. It stands out by offering maps even when you’re offline – a perfect companion for situations where internet access is limited or unavailable.

Google Translate / Papago

These are your go-to apps for overcoming language barriers while traveling here.

Google Translate has a photo translation feature, supporting a wide range of languages, convenient for reading signs and menus.

On the other hand, Papago , is also a useful translation app while traveling and also has a photo translation option.

These apps make it a lot easier for foreign travelers to engage with Taiwan’s local culture without getting lost in translation.

Google Translate: IOS  |  Android

In conclusion

Discovering everything that Taiwan has to offer becomes a lot easier for a foreigner with these convenient apps. They help you with your adventures here, by translating, guiding, navigating and more.

Enjoy your smooth travels in Taiwan with these top apps and create an unforgettable adventure.

Away with Danae

See more Taiwan travel content here:

Essential Tips for Traveling in Taiwan

Takeaways from traveling in taipei.

• The Best Ways To Get From Taipei to Hualien
• Is Qingshui Cliff Really Worth Visiting?
• Treasure Hill Artist Village: a Hidden Gem in Taipei?

Danae is the founder of Away with Danae. She is 25 years old, has traveled to over 40 countries and has a background in migration law and consular affairs. Danae aims to help you discover the lesser known gems of the world. She specifically focuses on authentic travel experiences in Europe and Asia.

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12 Essential Apps for Taiwan Travel

Last Updated on 12-30-2023

Taiwan, a fascinating and diverse country known for its bustling cities, breathtaking natural landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, offers an unforgettable travel experience for visitors from around the world. However, exploring a new country can be overwhelming, especially when faced with unfamiliar languages and customs. The good news is that there are numerous travel apps specifically designed to enhance your trip to Taiwan, providing valuable assistance and ensuring you make the most of your time on this beautiful island.

So, let’s discover the must-have travel apps for Taiwan, and get ready for an unforgettable journey of discovery and adventure!

When planning your travel to Taiwan, you should first know all the things you must know before traveling to Taiwan. You can refer to our 【 15 Things you need to know before your trip to Taiwan 】

• Apps for Taiwan Travel-Google Maps
• Apps for Taiwan Travel-Google Translate
• Apps for Taiwan Travel-YouBike2.0
• Apps for Taiwan Travel-Go！Taipei Metro
• Apps for Taiwan Travel-Uber
• Apps for Taiwan Travel-Taiwan Railway
• Apps for Taiwan Travel-T-Express
• Apps for Taiwan Travel-Agoda
• Apps for Taiwan Travel-Line
• Apps for Taiwan Travel-Uber eats & Food pandas
• Apps for Taiwan Travel-Xe Currency Converter

Apps for Taiwan Travel- Google Maps

Google Maps is an essential app for Taiwan travelers, revolutionizing navigation worldwide. With its offline mode, tourists can download Taiwan maps in advance and explore without an internet connection, ideal for areas with limited coverage. Accurate street navigation, public transport routes, and points of interest ensure efficient trip planning, optimizing travel time.

Additionally, multilingual support aids tourists unfamiliar with the local language, making it easier to find nearby restaurants and facilities. Google Maps is an invaluable companion for travelers exploring Taiwan’s bustling cities, beautiful landscapes, and charming neighborhoods.

Download app: Android / ios

Apps for Taiwan Travel- Google Translate

Google Translate is a travel essential, offering optical character recognition (OCR) for instant translations of written Chinese characters. It aids travelers in understanding signs, menus, and other text without knowledge of the local language. Moreover, it facilitates communication with locals, supporting multiple languages for easy interaction.

The app’s offline mode is a standout feature, enabling usage without internet or Wi-Fi connections. This proves advantageous in areas with limited network coverage or to avoid high roaming charges. Tourists can download language packs in advance, ensuring reliable translation throughout their Taiwan journey.

Apps for Taiwan Travel- YouBike2.0

YouBike2.0 is an essential app for those traveling in Taiwan, especially for exploring cities like Taipei, New Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Taichung. This bike rental system offers an eco-friendly and cost-effective way to get around, reducing carbon emissions and traffic congestion. With thousands of rental spots available, users can conveniently rent a bike from one location and return it to another. 

It also offers practical functions like weather information, rental news updates, site searches, and favorite site options, making it user-friendly and efficient for travelers. 

Our 【 YouBike: The Best Bike Rental System in Taiwan 】contains all the information you would want to know about YouBike, and it’s worthwhile for you to refer to it.

Apps for Taiwan Travel- Go！Taipei Metro

Go! Taipei Metro is a highly useful app for travelers exploring Taipei, Taiwan’s vibrant capital city. With this app, travelers can easily navigate the city’s efficient and extensive metro rail transit system. The app provides a route map, station exit information, transfer details, and even a journey planner to help users plan their trips effectively. It also offers real-time updates on any anomalies or incidents on the network through push notifications. 

【 Taipei Metro Guideline 】may help you, if you are visiting Taipei for the first time, to understand the most convenient public transportation in Taipei.

Apps for Taiwan Travel- Uber

Uber is an essential travel app for exploring Taiwan. It provides a convenient and reliable ride-hailing service, making it easier for travelers to get around the country. Whether you’re in Taipei or other cities, Uber offers a seamless transportation option, especially if you’re not familiar with the local language or public transportation system. With the Uber app, you can easily request rides, track the driver’s location, and make cashless payments, eliminating the need for language barriers or haggling with taxi drivers. 

It’s a must-have app for travelers seeking a hassle-free and efficient way to navigate Taiwan’s vibrant cities and scenic landscapes.

If you don’t want to spend too much money on Uber rides, you can also rent a car to explore Taiwan on your own. You can refer to our 【 How to convert your country’s license/International driving license to a Taiwan driver’s license 】 on what to look out for before rent a car and check 【 Taiwan car rental: most recommended car rental agencies for foreigners 】 to know the best car rental agencies for foreigners in Taiwan

Apps for Taiwan Travel- Taiwan Railway

Taiwan Railway is an official and user-friendly application for travelers using Taiwan Railways. It supports both Chinese and English interfaces, making it easy for foreign users to navigate without language barriers. With this app, travelers can book and collect train tickets directly on their phones, saving time and reducing paper usage. It also offers tourism route planning, providing well-planned maps and speech recognition for faster route selection. The app features point-of-interest searches, helping travelers discover nearby food, restaurants, and attractions. 

Additionally, it allows sharing booked tickets for more convenient group travel. Real-time train schedules and late notifications ensure a smooth and efficient travel experience.

Apps for Taiwan Travel- T-Express

T-Express is designed for travelers using Taiwan’s high-speed rail system, offering convenience and ease in purchasing tickets anytime, anywhere. Passengers can book, pay, and manage their tickets through the app, including modifications and cancellations. Real-time train schedules and fares are available, making it ideal for planning travel itineraries. With a 24/7 fully integrated ticketing system, users can enter and exit stations using QR code mobile tickets on their smartphones. The app supports secure payment methods, ensuring a hassle-free and eco-friendly experience for passengers.

You can also refer to our【 Taiwan’s High Speed Rail Guidelines 】to learn more about Taiwan High Speed Rail.

Klook serves as a comprehensive platform for travelers, offering a wide range of services from booking activities and experiences to reserving accommodations and transportation. With Klook, travelers can conveniently plan their itineraries and find exciting things to do in Taiwan, whether it’s exploring bustling cities, immersing in the natural beauty, or experiencing the local culture. The app provides a user-friendly interface and allows users to make hassle-free bookings for popular attractions, tours, and events. 

Additionally, Klook often offers exclusive deals and discounts, making it a cost-effective choice for travelers seeking memorable experiences without breaking the bank. 

Apps for Taiwan Travel- Agoda

Agoda is a renowned platform that offers a wide selection of accommodations, ranging from hotels and resorts to hostels and guesthouses, across various cities and destinations in Taiwan. With Agoda, travelers can easily find and book their ideal accommodations based on their preferences and budget. The app provides detailed information about each property, including user reviews and ratings, allowing travelers to make informed decisions about their stay. 

Moreover, Agoda often offers exclusive deals and promotions, enabling travelers to secure the best possible rates for their accommodations in Taiwan. 

Apps for Taiwan Travel- Line

Line is a popular messaging app widely used in Asian countries. It serves as a convenient tool for staying in touch with friends, making new acquaintances, and even conducting business while in Taiwan. The app allows users to send text messages, make voice and video calls, and share multimedia content, making communication seamless and efficient. 

With its user-friendly interface and multilingual support, Line is an indispensable app for travelers who want to stay connected and make the most of their time in Taiwan. Whether it’s keeping in touch with locals or fellow travelers, Line ensures that communication is smooth and hassle-free throughout the trip.

Apps for Taiwan Travel- Uber eats & Food pandas

Uber Eats and Foodpanda offer a convenient and efficient way to order food from various local restaurants and have it delivered right to your doorstep.The app allows users to easily browse through menus, place orders, and make payments online using credit cards or cash. It has quickly gained popularity among locals and visitors alike due to its ease of use and extensive food choices.

Both Uber Eats and Foodpanda are reliable and efficient apps that cater to different preferences, ensuring that you can enjoy delicious meals conveniently during your stay in Taiwan.

Download Uber app: Android / ios

Download Food panda app: Android / ios

Apps for Taiwan Travel- Xe Currency Converter

Xe Currency Converter is a reliable app for converting currencies and checking live mid-market rates. It helps users stay updated on exchange rates and make informed decisions when dealing with foreign currencies. The app also facilitates international money transfers to over 130 countries in 65 currencies, with easy setup and tracking options. Users can monitor up to 10 currencies, aiding better financial decisions. 

Moreover, the app provides historical charts, useful for analyzing past trends and planning financial transactions. Ideal for travelers and expats in Taiwan.

In conclusion, Taiwan offers a diverse range of essential apps that enhance the daily lives of residents and tourists alike. These apps provide convenience, accessibility, and efficiency across various aspects of life and travel. Whether you’re exploring cities, communicating with locals, or savoring local cuisine, these apps contribute to a seamless and enjoyable experience on the island.

Travelers are encouraged to download these apps in advance to maximize their time in Taiwan. Additionally, if you’re seeking short-term or long-term accommodation in Taiwan, you can explore numerous high-quality accommodation options on the mrhost website for a wide range of housing options.

For more information or queries, join our other platforms

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Must-Have Travel Apps for Exploring Taiwan

Traveling to Taiwan soon? Well, it’s always wise to be prepared before traveling to a country for the first time, especially if you don’t know the culture or language.

Here is a list of essential travel apps for visiting Taiwan. Whether you’re traveling for work or pleasure, you’ll find some really helpful apps on the list. Let’s take a look.

Chat and communication.

The Line is a popular messaging app in Taiwan with a large user base that includes local and international visitors.

iOS Android

Ride-hailing service.

Uber provides ride-hailing services in Taiwan. It is one of the most convenient ways to travel in the country.

Go Taipei Metro

Navigation and public transportation.

The Go! Taipei Metro app provides travelers with useful information on navigating the city’s metro system, including route planning, fare information, and real-time updates on train schedules and delays.

The Bus+ app offers a comprehensive transportation guide for travelers in Taiwan, including real-time bus and train schedules, ticketing information, and locations of public bike-sharing stations.

Google Maps

Maps, directions, and navigation.

Google Maps is a map and navigation app that needs no introduction that you should have whenever you are traveling.

Food delivery.

The Foodpanda app is yet another food delivery app you can try while traveling in Taiwan. It has a variety of options for food outlets, restaurants, and daily deals.

Uber Eats makes finding new and nearby restaurants to dine at in Taipei City becomes a hassle-free experience.

7 Best Travel Apps You’ll Want to Download for Taipei, Taiwan

September 27, 2018 September 27, 2018 by KKday

Travel like a pro in Taipei, Taiwan’s vibrant capital! All you need is your handy smartphone to download these top Taipei apps and make the trip a breeze. Best of all, these Taiwan apps are free for both Apple and Android!

Google Maps

Where would we all be without good ol’ Google Maps? Probably lost! This app boasts panoramic street view images, thanks to satellite imagery. Get all the walking, train, bus, and cycling routes plus travel time. Just turn on location, input the addresses, follow the blue line, and you’ll get there…eventually.

Download: Apple | Android

This world-famous ride-sharing app allows you the ease of traveling by car without the exorbitant taxi rates. With Uber, you can calculate your rates and have them charged by credit card. No need to fumble for change or struggling to haggle down the fare in Mandarin with the driver.

GO! Taipei Metro

Taipei’s Metro Rail Transit, or Taipei Metro, is so well-developed and intuitive for travelers, honestly, anyone can get by without the app. There are signs of stops everywhere with English translations. However, if you want to go the extra mile (heh) in scheduling your adventure, this app has got a Journey Planner, along with updated train schedules, travel times, and prices!

Booking and Itineraries

Tour taiwan.

Developed by the local gov’t, Tour Taiwan is an all-in-one travel app available in English, Chinese, and Japanese. Use it to find specific info in Taiwan, from best accommodations and restaurants to particular spots such as travelers’ service centers, police stations, and hospitals. Pro-tip: Use it to brush up on popular tourist destinations, news, and local festivities!

Book more than 10,000 unique activities and travel experiences with the KKday app. It’s easy to do so in the comfort of your own home. Keep an eye out for cool promos like skip-the-line tickets , unique day tours , and enjoy exclusive discounts.

Communication

Stay connected on-the-go in Taipei by using LINE, the uber-popular messaging app that first gained traction in Japan – it’s so famous that it even boasts its own cafe in Taipei 101 ! It works just like WhatsApp and Telegram, but doesn’t require a phone number to register.

The app also works on your laptop and tablet! Send cute stickers to your friends and easily message your tour drivers, Airbnb host, and friendly locals.

Pleco is a nifty Chinese-English dictionary app which has both Traditional and Simplified Chinese. For Taipei purposes, it’ll help you translate Taiwanese Mandarin (Pinyin). Just type in the English word and the results will give you both the written word and Taiwanese pronunciation.

Pleco has an additional Optical Character Recognizer (for a fee) that can capture characters on camera and translate the text instantly!

Check out our other Taipei guides below and map out your Taiwan adventure perfectly with KKday:

Your Ultimate Guide to Taiwan: Taipei by Train

• Where to Stay in Taipei: From Budget to Luxury
• Beautiful Places You Must Visit Outside Taipei
• 5 Incredibly Fun and Creative Things to Do in Taipei

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Best Apps in Taiwan: Your Ultimate Guide to Navigating the Tech Landscape

Table of Contents

Best Apps Taiwan Edition: Streamlining Your Life in the Digital Age

The correct mobile apps can greatly improve your everyday life, travel experiences, and general convenience in Taiwan’s dynamic and technologically advanced landscape. This thorough guide reveals the top apps in Taiwan across a range of categories, making it easier for visitors and locals alike to navigate this intriguing nation’s digital landscape.

1. Using Transportation Apps to Navigate Taiwan’s Cities

a. Taipei Metro

• Taipei Metro is a useful app for navigating Taiwan’s busy capital. With real-time train schedules, station maps, and service updates available, this app makes sure that visitors and locals alike have a flawless experience when utilizing the effective metro system in the city.
• Get Go! Taipei Metro for Android / Apple devices.
• The YouBike app enables users to find and unlock bicycles at various stations throughout Taipei and other cities, making eco-friendly and convenient urban commuting possible. There has never been a better time to explore Taiwan’s cities or use sustainable transportation.

2. Using Food Apps to Explore Taiwan’s Culinary Scene

• Zomato is the app to use when looking for the best restaurants in Taiwan. Zomato offers reviews, ratings, and comprehensive information on everything from fine dining establishments to neighborhood street food stands, making sure you enjoy the greatest food Taiwan has to offer.

b. Dianping (大眾點評)

• Often referred to as the “Yelp of Taiwan,” Dianping is a vital app for both locals and tourists looking for restaurant reviews, recommendations, and deals. With the app, users can explore dining options according to their preferences and location, covering a wide variety of cuisines.

c. Foodpandana

• Another food delivery service available in Taiwan is called Foodpanda. Customers can order food delivery, browse through a selection of restaurants, and place orders. The app frequently offers sales and discounts.

3. Utilizing Chat Apps to Maintain Contact

• In Taiwan, Line is a widely used messaging app that provides free voice calls, text messaging, and a wide range of entertaining stickers. Apart from communication, Line offers additional services like mobile payments, thereby becoming a one-stop app for staying in touch and participating in the local digital community.
• With Line’s free messaging services, users can communicate with people and groups via text, images, videos, and voice messages. It is a versatile platform for communication as it also supports video and voice calls.
• Line is widely recognized for its vast assortment of stickers and emoticons. Through the creative expression of colorful and animated stickers, users can inject a playful and unique element into their conversations.
• Line offers a mobile payment solution known as Line Pay. Users can use Line Pay to shop online, transfer money between accounts, and make payments. This feature strengthens the app’s position as a full-featured platform for transactions and communication.

b. Whatsapp

• Although many locals and visitors prefer WhatsApp for international communication, Line is still widely used locally. To maintain contact with a wide range of contacts, make sure you have both apps installed.

4. Using Navigation Apps to Get About

a. Google Maps

• Google Maps is still a good option if you want to navigate Taiwan seamlessly. It offers precise driving, walking, and cycling directions as well as up-to-date traffic information. Google Maps is a vital tool for travelers because it also provides information on routes for public transit.

b. Taiwan Railway (TRA) and High-Speed Rail (HSR) Apps

• The official Taiwan Railway and High-Speed Rail apps are invaluable for travelers who want to see Taiwan outside of the cities. These apps guarantee a smooth trip across the island by offering schedules, real-time updates, and ticket booking services.
• Get 臺鐵e訂通  or Android / Apple devices

c. T Express 

• The purpose of HSR is to provide effective travel over medium- to long-distances. For those who value convenience and speed above all else, the shortened travel time is a major selling point.
• Specialized infrastructure, such as stations, tracks, and signaling systems, is frequently needed for High-Speed Rail systems. The infrastructure makes it possible for the trains to run safely at their top speeds.
• Major cities and urban areas are usually connected by HSR networks, which offer quick and practical transportation between them. Improving national and regional connectedness is the aim.
• Visit official website for HSR
• Klook offers discounted HSR tickets

5. Apps for Health and Well-Being

a. Health Bank (健保快易怚)

• The official app for Taiwan’s National Health Insurance is called Health Bank. Users can check medical information, schedule appointments, and access their health records. This app is a vital resource for residents to manage their healthcare needs.
• Tracking diet and exercise is made easier with MyFitnessPal for those who are health-conscious. Because of its large database of regional Taiwanese recipes, the app is appropriate for people who wish to eat a varied diet while still leading a healthy lifestyle.

6. Apps for Entertainment and Shopping

1. Shopee (蝦皮): A popular e-commerce platform in Taiwan that offers a wide range of products with convenient delivery options.

2. PChome (網路家庭):* A major online shopping website and app in Taiwan offering a wide range of products.

3. Momo (富邦媒): Momo is a comprehensive e-commerce platform that offers a variety of products from electronics to fashion and beauty.

4. Rakuten Taiwan (樂天市場): A well-known global online marketplace offering a variety of products to Taiwanese consumers.

5. Taobao Taiwan (淘寶台灣): Taiwanese version of the popular Chinese online shopping platform offering a wide selection of products from a variety of sellers.

6. Lazada Taiwan: Part of the Lazada group, this app provides a convenient platform for online shopping with a variety of deals and promotions.

7. 17Life (17生活): A lifestyle and shopping app in Taiwan that offers deals, discounts, and promotions on a variety of products and services.

8. PiChubuy (比一比): A price comparison app in Taiwan that helps users find the best deals and discounts on various products.

9. Momoshop (momo購物網): Momoshop is a popular online shopping platform in Taiwan that offers a wide range of products, including electronics, fashion, and homewares.

10. GO Happy Mall (GO HAPPY購物中心): An online shopping app that offers a wide variety of products, including electronics, fashion and beauty products.

11. QIYI (愛奇藝) iQIYI is a streaming app that provides a huge library of international and Taiwanese content for fans of entertainment. You can find something to amuse yourself with on iQIYI, whether it’s dramas, films, or variety shows.

7. Apps for Learning Languages

a. Duolingo

• The engaging and entertaining language learning app Duolingo is perfect for people who want to improve their Mandarin. Duolingo makes learning a language fun by incorporating gamified lessons and daily challenges into your daily routine.
• Pleco is an extensive Chinese-English dictionary app that helps students comprehend and increase the amount of words they know in Mandarin. Pleco is a useful language companion with features like audio pronunciation and character recognition.

Conclusion: Easily Getting Around Taiwan’s Digital Environment

Including these top apps in your arsenal of digital tools before you travel to Taiwan will definitely improve your experience. These apps meet a variety of your digital needs, from staying connected and experiencing the local cuisine and language to exploring the cityscape and tasting local delicacies.

Making the most of your time in Taiwan’s tech-savvy country requires staying up to date with the best apps, as the country’s tech landscape is dynamic and constantly changing. These apps act as your virtual travel companions, enhancing your experience of Taiwan and making every digital interaction a smooth pleasure, whether you’re a tech enthusiast, a digital nomad, or an inquisitive tourist. Accept the ease, explore the options, and move confidently and easily through Taiwan’s digital environment.

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Most Popular Travel Apps: Taiwan

47 % of the top travel Apps in Taiwan were built by Taiwanese mobile App developers.

This chart provides a near real-time look at Google Play’s top chart rankings for travel Apps in Taiwan . All Taiwanese Apps are marked by a flag icon.

Currently, YouBike微笑單車 官方版 is the top Taiwanese travel App in Taiwan .

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Helpful Taiwan apps to help you during your trip

Some links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you purchase something through my links I may make a small commission at no extra charge to you. See my disclaimer .

Taiwan is a fantastic destination full of bustling cities, mountains and relaxing beaches, but it can be hard to get around without speaking the local language so I’m here to recommend some phone apps to help.

As an avid traveller, I have been to multiple destinations where I couldn’t speak the local language. I’ll be honest, it can be overwhelming. However, we are currently living in an age full of technological advancements that make our lives easier.

With the help of translation apps, transportation apps, food apps and everything in between. I want to share with you my favourite apps that help improve the lives of those living in and visiting Taiwan.

If you’re planning on travelling around Taiwan for more than just a few days, you should consider getting a local eSim card. That way you’ll have access to all of the below apps without needing to hunt for wifi!

Don’t forget to get travel insurance to cover you if something bad happens. One company I have personal experience with is Safety Wing . Not everyone needs the same coverage, so make sure you get a personalised quote that suits you and your trip plans.

When you need to transfer money or check exchange rates during your overseas trip, consider using Wise . They have competitive rates and make exchanging foreign funds easy. I’ve been using them since 2015.

If you are planning on downloading and using these apps during your trip to Taiwan, consider getting an eSIM to stay connected. These SIMS can be downloaded onto your device and allow you to use the internet on the go – even without WIFI connection.

Taiwan apps for translation

Google Translate (Lens)

In Taiwan, the national spoken language is Mandarin Chinese. This means, that if you are unable to speak or read the language you will likely need to use Google Translate.

What’s great about this app is that it allows you to take images of the Chinese written language and it will translate it directly on your screen for you. This comes in handy when you need to read a menu or make a purchase. You can even manually type in sentences and speak verbally to the app and it will translate those ways too.

Pleco (Chinese Dictionary)

For those who have moved to or visited Taiwan without knowledge of the local language. The Pleco Chinese Dictionary is one of the best apps in Taiwan for translation and learning. You can use the audio function to record a word and the app will automatically translate it for you.

Plus, if you need to look up a word you can do so using the dictionary feature that offers words in English, it’s matching Chinese characters and a description of what the word means.

If you download the extra feature (unfortunately for a small cost) you can even take photos of the Chinese language and the app will translate it for you directly on the screen. This app is most useful for those looking to learn some of the language instead of just getting by.

Taiwan Communication Apps

Line is without a doubt one of the best apps to use in Taiwan to keep in communication with people. Similar to WhatsApp in Europe and KakaoTalk in Korea, pretty much everybody in Taiwan has a Line account. You can’t really do much without it.

With Line, you can send and receive messages, images, voice notes and more. Each account is connected to a phone number and “Line ID” so even if you change your number, contacts can still find you by your ID name. I’ve been able to maintain a Line account even though I no longer have a Taiwanese phone number.

Having lived in multiple western countries and met people all over the world, this one surprised me. But in Taiwan EVERYONE uses Instagram and I’d even argue that they use it more than in many other countries for communication.

Although it is predominantly a social network, Instagram Messenger is used as a primary source of keeping in touch with friends here. Unlike many of the other apps on our Taiwan list, many foreigners that visit the country already have an Instagram account so it’s one less thing to set up when you arrive and can easily keep in touch with new friends.

Transport Apps in Taiwan

Bus Tracker Taiwan

In Taiwan, one of the best ways to keep track of bus timetables is to use phone apps. One of the best-recommended apps for this is “Bus Tracker Taiwan” as it not only shows you the entire route map for each bus and transport option, but you can also show in real time which buses will arrive soon.

Also, just because the name says bus tracker, doesn’t mean you can’t check the other modes of transport too.

From this app, you can look up the information and route map for the Airport Bus, the MRT lines, and Trains, and even show bicycles that you can rent. This really is such a convenient app for those using public transportation in Taiwan.

Taiwan Railways Administration

Taiwan Railways Administration is on our list as one of the helpful navigation apps for trains in the country. You can purchase online e-tickets for train journeys, check the schedules for different train lines and routes and you can also check the live train status.

All of this can be done with just a few clicks of a button on your mobile app so you can easily find your way.

The app works in both Chinese and English so you should have no problems navigating the app and getting around Taiwan. You can look at transport routes that are direct and those that include transfers so you’ll be able to get anywhere you need to.

Metro Taipei

Metro Taipei is another one of the apps I recommend for your time in Taiwan because it’s an easy way to plan your journey and know the price of each ticket in advance. This is great if you are trying to plan an itinerary but you’re on a budget as the app will tell you how much a full fare is for an adult ticket.

If you need to know what times the trains are or if you need to know what route to take, this app will successfully give you the information you need.

If you are likely to be out later than usual, the app will even keep you updated with the last trains each day so you can make sure you don’t get stranded. Plus, it’s completely in English so there are no concerns if you can’t yet understand the Chinese Language.

Taxi & Rideshare Apps in Taiwan

Uber is known worldwide as a convenient rideshare app. It allows you to order taxis directly from your app. What’s great about Uber compared to traditional taxi services is to keep the overall trip at a lower cost, you have the option to possibly share a ride with another passenger heading in the same direction.

There are multiple options within the app so you can either go for the lower-cost share option or you can select a more expensive regular taxi which has only your party included.

Plus, you don’t only have the option to order a taxi here and now, you can also reserve a rideshare for a later date or time if you’re trying to plan ahead. You can pay and keep track of all rides in the app!

Taiwan Taxi (55688)

Taiwan Taxi is another addition to our list of great apps for those in Taiwan as it helps you get taxis in and around the country. Similar to Uber, you can hail a taxi and select cars based on the different features available. The one downside with this app compared to some of the others listed is there doesn’t seem to be a way to get the app in English.

However, it is relatively easy to use thanks to the images so I had a native Taiwanese friend help me translate so we can show you the important features if you’re brave enough to give it a go.

Scooter & Bike Rental Apps in Taiwan

“You Bike” is another one on our list of useful apps in Taiwan, as it allows you to find stations with bikes you can rent. Since so many people use bicycles and scooters in the country there are multiple places to find a scooter on a temporary basis.

You can search the accurate rates through the app for each neighbourhood or city, and you can see a colour-coded map of each place that has bikes available for you.

If you’re new to renting bikes this way, you can read the in-depth instruction manual in the app and also understand how the renting process works. It explains how you can find and rent and bike as well as what’s included so you don’t run into any problems.

Food Delivery Apps in Taiwan

Uber Eats is very popular back home in the UK and it’s used a lot here in Taiwan too. It’s a food delivery app that connects hungry people with local restaurants and grocery stores so they can place their orders ahead of time. The app is highly organised and lets you search by cuisine or daily offer and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

This is one of the best apps in Taiwan for ordering food and you can pay both on delivery arrival or directly through the app depending on what is more convenient for you. Now you don’t have to cook dinner, you can simply order food!

Food Panda is a popular food delivery service that many locals and visitors use around the country. It’s one of the nation’s favourite apps in Taiwan and it gives you the chance to order food to be delivered.

If you’re in the position to pick up the pre-ordered food yourself you can often get a discount to save some money, otherwise, it’s the lazy way to get some dinner without you needing to cook.

Food Panda is a modern app that allows you to search hundreds of food types and cuisines as well as look at grocery stores to place weekly orders on. You can get notified of discounts and offers and there is so much choice available to you. Plus, as you can probably guess, the app is in English too!

Final Thoughts on Apps in Taiwan

These apps should help to make your visit to Taiwan a smooth one. You’ll be able to get around the country and communicate with your new friends with ease.

If you’re spending an extended time in Taipei and you’re looking for some quirky things to do, check out these posts for some inspiration:

• Completing the Taipei Elephant Mountain hike in Taiwan
• 7 11 Taiwan: Finding the themed stores in Taipei
• Shifen Waterfall: How to visit Taiwan’s Niagara Falls

Need help planning your trip?

Check out how to plan a trip abroad & see my travel resources for more. WayAway – Great for booking flights. They even have a cashback feature for those who fly frequently. Skyscanner – A comprehensive comparison website showing where to purchase flights. HostelWorld – The biggest selection of hostels & sociable accommodations. Booking.com – The largest collection of accommodations worldwide. Safety Wing – A travel insurance brand for long-term travellers and nomads. Airalo – An eSIM card company that lets you stay connected during your trip. Wise – Perfect for transferring foreign currencies. iVisa – For applying for tourist and visitor visas. Viator – Great for finding tours and activities worldwide. Get Your Guide – Another company for finding activities. Klook – Have some of the best activity deals in Asia.

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Best Time to Visit

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Guide

Best Taiwan Hotels

Top Things to Do in Taiwan

Best Beaches

Food to Try

Top Things to Do in Taipei

Best Museums

Best Restaurants

Nightlife Guide

Getting Around Taipei

Day Trips From Taipei

Your Trip to Taiwan: The Complete Guide

When it comes to Western tourists, Taiwan is still under the radar when compared to Japan, Mainland China, and Hong Kong, yet it manages to take the best of all three and jam pack those into a tiny island. From Taipei's pulsing, future-forward districts of Xinyi and Ximen and nightlife, to lush swathes of nature, outdoor activities, and mineral-rich hot springs, stunning arts, creativity, and culture, to excellent transportation options including a bullet train, and wide array of Chinese, Japanese, and indigenous cuisines, Taiwan offers something for every traveler.

Planning Your Trip To Taiwan

• Best Time To Visit: While the majority of Taiwan falls into the subtropical category climate-wise  , the winters can be substantially drier, pleasant, and even cold enough during January and February to require a jacket and other winter apparel. Fall's October and November months are a sweet spot when it comes to weather, while March through May are warmer and see cherry blossoms, and are also hot enough to hit the beaches in Taiwan's tropical south.
• Language: As with Mainland China, Taiwan's official language is Mandarin  , which became the case post-WWII. However, Taiwan is multilingual thanks to both its indigenous cultures and periods of occupation, and other common tongues include Taiwanese Hokkien and Hakka.
• Currency: The New Taiwan Dollar (TWD).
• Getting Around: The Taiwan High Speed Rail system runs almost the entire length of the island from North to South, with stops in a dozen cities including Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, and Zuoying/Kaohsiung (there may be line extensions in the future as well). A robust assortment of public transportation routes also exist for bigger cities, like Taipei's MRT subway/rail , and buses to and from airports, while taxis are also readily available and not expensive. Conveniently for those who can't read Chinese characters, Uber is present in Taipei (again), while the Taiwan ride hailing app Find Taxi also has an English language option.
• Travel Tip: The Chinese New Year is the equivalent of the West's holiday season, and for as long as several weeks locals take leave of their jobs, close up small businesses and restaurants, and return to their hometowns or head overseas on vacation. It's a double-edged sword for tourists to visit during this time, since on one hand, you'll avoid crowds and lines, and can experience the colorful Lantern Festival and parades, but you'll also find some attractions, activities, restaurants, and stores closed, especially on the New Year itself.

Things To Do

Like Japan to the north (albeit without the snow and subtropical temperatures!), Taiwan offers a diverse and distinct combination of city, nature, culture, and adventurous activities including relaxing, natural hot springs, and more blended all together in the same city! Just Taipei alone can serve as a holistic sampler of everything Taiwan has to offer, yet it's so easy to traverse other cities all over the island thanks to the high speed rail, you can curate an extensive sampler itinerary from North to South.

• Explore Taiwan's Famed Night Markets: If you ask a Taiwanese expat what they miss most about home, chances are they'll say the vibrant night market culture of their homeland. Spread all over the country, with dozens in major cities, these markets offer a wide array of street food and trendy delicacies, including the aptly named stinky tofu, frisbee-sized tapioca flour crispy crusted chicken cutlets, "coffin bread," and much more including clothing, gadgets, and other goods.
• Soak in Taiwan's Natural Hot Springs : Like Japan, Taiwan boasts mineral-rich hot springs and resorts built around them (as well as more humble, public access, low-cost facilities). Conveniently, a handful can be found in the Beitou district in Taipei (which is home to a Hot Spring Museum as well!) while other popular hot spring destinations include Hualien County's Wenshan , Miali County's Tai'an, and Jiaoxi's Tangweigou Hot Spring Park.
• Take in The City Views From Taipei's 101 Tower: The world's largest tower when it first opened in 2004   (and now ranking number 10), this stacked cup-shaped skyscraper features an incredible multi-level observation deck from which you can see both the modern cityscape and natural wonders it's nestled in, plus a xiao long bao (soup dumpling) lunch afterwards at the ground floor's Din Tai Fung restaurant.
• Enjoy the Splendor of Taroko Natural Park : Once you've had your fill of modern metropolis delights in Taipei or another larger city, explore the stunning glory of Taroko through its many trails and iconic gorge.

Explore more of the best Taiwan has to offer with articles on the top 15 things to do In Taipei , our Taipei city guide for LGBTQ+ visitors , and overview of the Taipei 101 tower .

What To Eat And Drink

The past decade has seen an evolution of Taiwanese cuisine thanks to innovative fine dining chefs who take earthy local, seasonal ingredients to technique-forward Michelin star levels at restaurants like Taipei's RAW and Mume , and Taichung's Singaporean-Taiwanese fusion venue JL Studio . Some of the foods most often associated with Taiwan are accessible, unpretentious, and delicious; most famously, "bubble/boba tea," which entails a tea, juice, or even milk beverage served with a scoop of chewy tapioca pearls. Although only invented in the 1980s, it's now an international phenomenon, and Taiwan sees all kinds of innovative, creative new takes and artisanal brands as well as big chains making the beverage.

Stinky tofu is one of the most popular—and aptly named—street foods in Taiwan, so much that there is even an entire street dedicated to it. Shenkeng Tofu Street is located in New Taipei's Shenking district, and offers many takes on the odious acquired taste and smell, as well as non-stinky tofu iterations and even deserts.

Xiao Long Bao is another Taiwan must-eat. Known in Western countries as "soup dumplings," this staple may have originated in Mainland China and its Shanghainese iteration is found all over the world (a bit flabby, with a thick dough skin that contains soup and usually succulent pork), but Taiwan's Michelin-starred chain Din Tai Fung helped popularize Taiwan's daintier, thinner-skinned, one-or-two-bite sized version both domestically and abroad. You'll find twists on Din Tai Fung's formula and fillings in restaurants all over Taiwan.

Bubble tea aside, the Taiwanese also satisfy their sweet tooth with the signature local snacks, Pineapple Cake and nougats. The former can be found everywhere, including airport shops and 7-Eleven, but for the good stuff, the handmade, real pineapple-filled shortcakes from SunnyHills are a must (but do note their limited shelf life, as with all preservative-free foods). Nougats are also found all over Taiwan, but local gourmands feel the yummiest can be snagged at Taipei's Okura Prestige Hotel shop (they get snatched up fast during holidays for gifts).

Where To Stay

Taiwan offers a pretty wide range of accommodations and price points, from international chains to local luxury and boutique properties. Taipei's Chinese palace-style Grand Hotel is an architectural icon (albeit inconvenient to public transport) and classic. More contemporary, newer properties like Mandarin Oriental , W Taipei , and Hotel Proverbs offer primo city district locations and gorgeous modern decor.

In contrast to Hong Kong, Taipei's hotels are a steal price-wise, especially its local boutique properties (unless there's some major convention or function). Although heavily regulated, Airbnb does have a Taiwanese presence and is currently legal. However, as with some other destinations the legal lines get blurry over specific kinds of stays, some hosts only speak/write in Chinese, and their house rules can be more strict than in other Asian countries. However, price-wise they are extremely reasonable.

For TripSavvy's current top hotel picks, check out the best Taiwan hotels .

Getting There

Located outside city limits and requiring a chunk of time to commute a la Tokyo's Narita, Taipei's Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) is the country's biggest, busiest air transportation hub and home base for EVA Air and China Airlines (both offer direct flights to and from U.S. cities). Two terminals, with a third in the works, feature oodles of places to eat and drink, from Taiwanese fare to Starbucks and even some local craft beer.

There's a second, conveniently located but smaller area airport, Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA), which services cities within Taiwan and China, and a couple of other Asian countries. Southern Taiwan's Kaohsiung International Airport (KHH) is the second largest/busiest air hub, with more than two dozen Asian airlines and destinations, including Japan, Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore, the Philippines, Malaysia, and Macao serviced.

Culture And Customs

Although any business with an international or Western clientele, especially five-star hotel brands, will generally have an English-speaking staff and wording on map apps, English isn't that prevalent on a whole in Taiwan (and English translations for the same road or business can be phonetically spelled out in many different ways). A Chinese-English translation app can be extremely valuable for communicating, and having locals enter the Chinese letter names of destinations directly into your favorite map app is also an extremely helpful tool for finding places and getting around independently of tours, guides, etc. Taiwanese people are typically friendly, unpretentious, and polite, so don't be afraid to ask for assistance!

Money Saving Tips

• The food choices are plentiful and prices are cheap at Taiwan's night markets, making these a perfectly thrifty way to fill up your belly with authentic local fare.
• Another unique Taiwan attraction is its creative art parks: imminently walkable and photo-friendly districts (often comprised of abandoned factories or military facilities) now filled with murals, galleries, craft shops, cafes, and exhibitions (though some of the latter do charge admission). These include Taipei's Songshan Cultural and Creative Park and Huashan 1914 Creative Park , Tainan's Blueprint Cultural & Creative Park , and Kaohsiung's Pier-2 Art Center .
• Book a trip during low season, which is usually both during the chillier winter months and late summer's hot, monsoon-plagued time, which also happens to be the "Ghost Festival," which is when the entirety of Taiwan is believed to be haunted by spirits and it's considered ill-advised to travel (August to September).

Britannica. "Taiwan: Climate."

WorldAtlas. "What Languages Are Spoken In Taiwan?" April 25, 2017

Skyscraper Museum. "Supertall 2020: Lineup"

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Table of contents.

If you’re planning a trip to Taiwan, you’ll quickly discover that the country has an extensive and efficient transportation system. From the Taipei Metro to the Taiwan High Speed Rail, there are plenty of options for getting around the country quickly and easily. However, navigating this system can be daunting, especially if you’re not familiar with the language or the layout of the cities.

Luckily, there are a number of apps available that can help you navigate Taiwan’s transportation system with ease. Using transportation apps on your smartphone or tablet can make traveling in Taiwan much easier and less stressful. These apps provide real-time information about schedules, routes, and delays, allowing you to plan your trip ahead of time and avoid any unnecessary delays or confusion.

With so many transportation options available in Taiwan, it can be difficult to know which apps are the best for your needs. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the most popular and useful transportation apps in Taiwan, including the Taipei Metro, iBus Taichung, Taiwan Railways, Taiwan High Speed Rail, and Google Maps.

Whether you’re a local or a first-time visitor, these apps are sure to make your travels in Taiwan a breeze.

Key Takeaways

• Taiwan has an extensive and efficient transportation system, but it can be daunting for non-locals to navigate.
• Popular transportation apps in Taiwan include Google Maps, Taipei Metro, BusTracker Taipei, Taiwan Railways, and iBus Taipei.
• Using transportation apps can make traveling in Taiwan easier and less stressful, with benefits including convenience, ease of use, and real-time updates on schedules.
• Google Maps is a comprehensive guide to navigating Taiwan’s transportation systems, covering all forms of transportation and providing real-time directions, schedules, estimated travel times, and alternative routes to avoid delays.

Overview of Taiwan’s Public Transportation System

You’ll be blown away by the efficiency of Taiwan’s public transportation system! Taiwan’s transportation system is one of the best in the world, with a network of buses, trains, and subways that can take you anywhere you need to go. The system is clean, safe, and easy to navigate, making it a perfect choice for travelers looking to explore Taiwan.

One of the most popular modes of transportation in Taiwan is the MRT, or Mass Rapid Transit. The MRT is a subway system that covers most of the major cities in Taiwan, including Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Taichung. The stations are clean and well-lit, making it easy to find your way around. The MRT is fast, reliable, and affordable, with trains running every few minutes during peak hours. Whether you’re traveling for business or pleasure, the MRT is a great way to get around Taiwan.

Benefits of Using Transportation Apps

Using transportation apps in Taiwan can make your travel experience much more enjoyable and convenient. The user-friendly interface of these apps allows you to easily navigate the transportation system, even if you’re not familiar with the area.

With real-time updates, you can avoid delays and plan your travel accordingly. Additionally, many transportation apps integrate with other travel apps, making it easy to plan your entire trip all in one place.

User-Friendly Interface

With its intuitive design and simple controls, you’ll have no trouble navigating Taiwan’s transportation system with these user-friendly apps. These apps are designed to make it easy for you to find the right train or bus route, and they provide real-time information on arrival and departure times. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a long-time resident, you’ll appreciate the convenience and ease of use that these apps offer.

One of the best features of these apps is their user-friendly interface. You can easily navigate through the app and find the information you need without getting lost in a maze of menus and options. The interface is designed to be simple and intuitive, so you can quickly find the information you need and get on your way.

Whether you’re looking for a specific route or just want to see what options are available to you, these apps make it easy to find the information you need. So why struggle with confusing maps and schedules when you can use these user-friendly apps to make your travels in Taiwan a breeze?

Real-Time Updates

Stay in the loop with real-time updates on train and bus schedules, so you can plan your travels accordingly and avoid any unexpected delays. Many of the best transportation apps in Taiwan offer real-time updates on train and bus schedules, allowing you to plan your commute with ease. With constant updates on any changes to the schedule, you can stay informed and avoid any delays or cancellations that may occur.

To help you get a better idea of the features offered by different transportation apps in Taiwan, take a look at the table below. This table compares the real-time update features of some of the most popular transportation apps in Taiwan, including the types of transportation they cover, the frequency of updates, and the accuracy of their information. With this information at your fingertips, you can choose the app that best suits your needs and stay connected with the latest updates on the go.

By staying up-to-date on transportation schedules and delays, you can make the most of your time in Taiwan and avoid unnecessary stress during your travels. With the help of real-time updates from transportation apps, you can plan your routes, avoid peak travel times, and arrive at your destination on time and hassle-free.

Integration with Other Travel Apps

If you’re planning a trip to Taiwan, you’ll be glad to know that many travel apps integrate with each other, making it easier for you to plan your itinerary and navigate the city.

For example, the popular transportation app, Google Maps, can be linked to other travel apps like Klook and KKday. This integration allows you to easily plan your day trips and tours, and even purchase tickets directly through the app.

Another app that integrates well with other travel apps is the Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) app. The TRA app allows you to search for train schedules and purchase tickets, but it also integrates with other transportation apps like the Taipei Metro app and the Ubike app.

This means that you can seamlessly transition from one mode of transportation to another without having to switch between multiple apps. With these integrations, navigating Taiwan’s transportation system has become more convenient and user-friendly for travelers.

Taipei Metro

Explore Taipei Metro like a local and never get lost with these top navigation apps! Taipei Metro is one of the most convenient modes of transportation in the city, with 5 main lines that cover almost all major areas.

To help you navigate this vast network, there are plenty of apps available that can make your travels smoother and more enjoyable. One of the most popular navigation apps for Taipei Metro is Google Maps. This app offers real-time updates on train schedules, station information, and even provides alternative routes in case of any service disruptions.

With its easy-to-use interface, you can plan your journey in advance or quickly find your way around the city. Plus, with its integration with other travel apps, you can easily switch between different modes of transportation to get to your destination faster. Other useful navigation apps for Taipei Metro include Metro Taipei, which offers detailed maps and station information, and Citymapper, which provides real-time transit information and even alerts you when it’s time to get off the train.

With these apps at your fingertips, navigating Taipei Metro has never been easier!

iBus Taichung

Are you planning to visit Taichung? Don’t forget to check out iBus Taichung, the city’s public bus system that can take you to various attractions and destinations! With iBus Taichung, you can navigate the city like a local and enjoy the convenience of traveling around without the need to hail a taxi or rent a car.

To make the most out of your iBus Taichung experience, here are some tips to keep in mind:

Download the iBus Taichung app on your smartphone to easily search for bus routes, estimated arrival times, and real-time updates on bus locations.

Take note of the bus stop numbers and the route numbers displayed on the bus stop signs. These numbers will help you identify the right bus to take and ensure that you’re headed in the right direction.

By using iBus Taichung, you can save money and time while exploring all that Taichung has to offer. So, hop on a bus and enjoy the ride!

Taiwan Railways

Now that you’re familiar with iBus Taichung, let’s move on to another useful transportation app in Taiwan: Taiwan Railways.

This app is particularly helpful for those who want to explore different parts of Taiwan using the train system. With Taiwan Railways, you can easily plan your trip, check train schedules, and book tickets in advance.

The app also provides real-time updates on train delays and cancellations, so you can adjust your plans accordingly. Plus, the app has a feature that allows you to save your frequently used routes, making it even more convenient for your future travels.

Overall, Taiwan Railways is a must-have app for anyone who wants to explore Taiwan by train.

Taiwan High Speed Rail

If you’re planning to travel long distances in Taiwan, you’ll definitely want to check out the Taiwan High Speed Rail app. This app is an excellent tool for navigating the high speed rail network, which connects major cities across Taiwan.

Here are three reasons why you should download the Taiwan High Speed Rail app:

Easy ticket purchasing: With the app, you can purchase tickets for the high speed rail with just a few taps on your phone. You can also choose your seat, view train schedules, and get real-time updates on delays or cancellations.

Real-time train tracking: The app also has a real-time train tracking feature, which allows you to see the location of your train on a map. This is especially helpful if you want to know how much longer you have to wait for your train to arrive.

Station information: The app provides detailed information about each high speed rail station, including maps, directions, and amenities. You can also view the station layout and find out where to go for food, shopping, or other services.

Overall, the Taiwan High Speed Rail app is a must-have for anyone traveling long distances in Taiwan.

Google Maps

Let’s be real, Google Maps is a lifesaver when it comes to exploring new places. It’s no different in Taiwan, where the app provides a comprehensive guide to navigating transportation systems across the country. Google Maps covers all forms of transportation in Taiwan, including buses, trains, and even the Taipei Metro system.

To make things even easier, Google Maps provides real-time directions and schedules so you can plan your journey from start to finish. The app also shows estimated travel times and even offers alternative routes if you want to avoid traffic or construction. Here’s a table to give you an idea of just how helpful Google Maps can be when it comes to navigating Taiwan’s transportation system:

With Google Maps as your guide, navigating Taiwan’s transportation system becomes a breeze. So the next time you’re exploring the country, make sure to have this app downloaded and ready to use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there any transportation apps that provide real-time updates on traffic or delays in taiwan.

If you’re looking for transportation apps that provide real-time updates on traffic or delays in Taiwan, there are a few options to consider.

One popular app is Google Maps, which can be used to navigate through the country’s transportation system and also provides real-time traffic updates.

Another option is the Taiwan Transportation Information app, which offers real-time information on train, bus, and subway schedules, as well as any delays or disruptions.

Additionally, the iBon app can be useful for purchasing tickets for various modes of transportation in Taiwan, including trains and buses, and also provides updates on any changes to schedules or routes.

Overall, these apps can be incredibly helpful for navigating Taiwan’s transportation system and staying up-to-date on any delays or disruptions.

How easy or difficult is it to purchase tickets for Taiwan’s public transportation system?

Purchasing tickets for Taiwan’s public transportation system can be easy or difficult depending on the mode of transportation you choose.

For example, if you’re taking the metro, you can purchase tickets at the station using either cash or an EasyCard, which can be loaded with money and used for multiple rides.

However, if you’re taking a bus, it can be more challenging as you’ll need to have exact change or use an EasyCard to pay the fare.

Additionally, some buses may not have a ticket machine, so you’ll need to purchase your ticket in advance from a convenience store or ticket booth.

It’s important to plan ahead and make sure you have the correct payment method before boarding to avoid any delays or issues.

Are there any transportation apps that allow for multi-modal travel planning, such as combining bus and train routes?

If you’re looking for transportation apps that allow for multi-modal travel planning in Taiwan, you’re in luck! There are several options available that can help you combine bus and train routes seamlessly.

One popular choice is the Taiwan Railway app, which not only provides train schedules and ticket purchasing options but also allows you to plan your journey by combining train and bus routes.

Another useful app is the EZTravel app, which covers not only trains and buses but also taxis, rental cars, and even bike-sharing options.

With these apps, you can easily navigate Taiwan’s transportation system and plan your travels with ease.

Can you use transportation apps in Taiwan without a data plan or internet connection?

Yes, you can use transportation apps in Taiwan without a data plan or internet connection. Some apps, such as Google Maps, allow you to download maps and directions ahead of time so that you can access them offline.

Additionally, some transportation apps, like the Taiwan Railways Administration app, offer free Wi-Fi at train stations, which you can use to download information or check schedules.

Keep in mind that not all apps may work offline, so it’s important to do your research and plan accordingly before heading out. With a little preparation, using transportation apps in Taiwan can make navigating the country’s transportation system a breeze.

Are there any transportation apps that provide information on accessibility for individuals with disabilities?

If you’re looking for transportation apps in Taiwan that provide information on accessibility for individuals with disabilities, there are a few options available.

One such app is the Taiwan Easy Go app, which offers information on accessible routes, elevators, and accessible facilities at transportation hubs.

Another option is the Taipei Metro app, which allows you to search for stations with accessible facilities and provides information on elevator maintenance schedules.

Additionally, the Taiwan Railways app provides information on accessible facilities at train stations and offers pre-boarding assistance for passengers with disabilities.

Overall, these apps can be a valuable resource for individuals with disabilities navigating Taiwan’s transportation system.

Congratulations on making it through the article! By now, you should have a better understanding of Taiwan’s public transportation system and the benefits of using transportation apps. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, these apps will make your travels in Taiwan much smoother and efficient.

Firstly, the Taipei Metro app is a must-have for anyone navigating the city’s subway system. It provides real-time information on train schedules, routes, and even offers a feature to plan your trip beforehand.

Secondly, the iBus Taichung app is perfect for those exploring the city of Taichung. It provides information on bus schedules, real-time bus locations, and even has a feature to alert you when your stop is approaching.

For longer journeys, Taiwan Railways and Taiwan High Speed Rail apps are essential. These apps provide information on train schedules, routes, and even allow you to purchase tickets in advance.

Lastly, Google Maps is a reliable option for navigating any city in Taiwan, as it provides information on public transportation, walking, and driving routes.

Overall, using transportation apps in Taiwan will save you time and make your travels much more convenient. So, go ahead and download these apps to make your next trip to Taiwan a breeze!

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Taiwan Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 23, 2023

Taiwan is one of the most underrated budget destinations in Asia. It offers a beautiful — and super affordable — mix of east and west, blending the culture and cuisines of mainland China , Japan , and Hong Kong . And all with a fraction of the crowds.

I don’t think enough people visit Taiwan. I spent time here as an English teacher and have revisited the country since. There is a lot to do there: hiking the mountains, eating at night markets, drinking at tea houses, lounging on beaches, and enjoying the country’s amazing nightlife. No matter your interests, Taiwan won’t disappoint — especially if you’re a foodie. The food here is some of the best in the region!

This travel guide to Taiwan can help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit to this underrated island!

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Taiwan

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Taiwan

1. Visit Jiufen

Jiufen is one of Taiwan’s most popular tourist destinations. Founded during the Qing dynasty, Jiufen boomed as a gold mining town in the 1890s. Here, you can find all kinds of historic tea houses built into the hillside. The center of the city and its historic streets and buildings are all preserved and look as they did 100 years ago. Try the snacks on offer, visit one of the many tea houses, and do some hiking if you have time. It’s a pretty easy day trip from Taipei but you should aim to come early to beat the crowds. If your itinerary allows for it, consider spending a night here so you can experience it without the daytripper crowds.

2. Soak in the Hot Springs

Especially fun to visit in winter, the Beitou Hot Springs are just 30 minutes from downtown Taipei and you can get there on the MRT (you need to go to Xinbeitou station). There are lots of resorts, spas, and inns in the area which, with a vast array of wildlife and fauna, really feel like you’ve traveled much further afield. Visit the Hot Springs Museum, the Xinbeitou Historic Station, and Thermal Valley (a sulfurous lake nearby that has walking trails) while you’re here. There are also some really cool temples here, including the tiny wooden Puji Temple.

3. Explore Taroko National Park

Located southeast of Taipei, this national park offers visitors a chance to hike through beautiful mountainous terrain and gorges. It spans almost 250,000 acres and is one of only nine national parks in Taiwan. With loads of cliffs and waterfalls to explore, it’s a really stunning place to visit. Head to the Zhuilu Suspension Bridge for some amazing views and to the Eternal Spring Shrine or to the Changing Temple for a bit of culture and history. Some suggested walking trails include Shakadang, Changchun, Swallow Grotto, and Lushui-Heliu. Entrance to the park is free.

4. Visit Taipei 101

Formerly known as Taipei World Trade Center, this was the tallest building in the world from when it opened in 2004 until 2010 (when the Burj Khalifa took its place). Standing 508-meters (1,667-feet) tall, it towers over Taipei. There is an observation platform on the 89th floor (at 382-meters high). You can also go up to the 91st floor for an outdoor platform. If you’re needing some retail therapy (and can fit anything else in your bags), there’s a shopping mall at the bottom.

5. Explore the night markets

Taipei is home to dozens of night markets. Shulin Night Market, Raohe Night Market, Tonghua Night Market, Snake Alley, and Ningxia Night Market are all worth spending some time exploring but there are over 30 to choose from in Taipei alone. The food at these markets is the best (and cheapest) in the city. So much so that a few have even been given Michelin Bib Gourmands!

Other Things to See and Do in Taiwan

1. visit taipei.

Taipei is the epicenter of the country. Here there are sprawling food markets, a wild nightlife, spacious parks, and all kinds of interesting and quirky museums. Plus, the nearby mountains are full of easy and accessible hikes. Be sure to take a free walking tour, visit the National Palace Museum, see some temples (especially Confucius Temple and Bao-an Temple), and visit the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall. I can’t sing the praises of this city highly enough (I lived here when I taught English). For even more on the city, here’s my full list of things to do in Taipei!

2. Go island hopping

The Pescadores Islands (known locally as Penghu) is an archipelago off the west coast between Taiwan and China. There are 90 islands in the region, perfect for exploring on a day trip. You can take a boat tour that visits several islands in the region, allowing you to snorkel, see sea turtles, and wander through traditional aboriginal villages and explore temples galore. Expect to pay around 1,500 TWD for a one-day multi-island tour.

3. See Tianhou Temple

Located in Taipei, this is one of the oldest temples in the city. Tianhou (also known as Mazu Temple, after the deity Mazu, goddess of the sea) was built in 1746 and is one of three major temples in Taiwan from the Qing period. It’s a beautiful Taoist temple filled with mythological creatures, incense, lucky goldfish, and people paying respect to the gods. Admission is free.

4. Hit the beach

The beaches of Kenting on the southern tip of the island are the best place to enjoy the summer weather. White Sand Bay is the most popular beach and a great place to swim, snorkel, and soak up the sun. Other beaches worth checking out are Fulong Beach, South Bay, Dawan Beach, Laomei Beach, and Little Bali Bay.

5. See the Lantern Festival

The famous Taiwan Lantern Festival is held every February/March and involves releasing hundreds of paper lanterns into the sky. There’s also a huge parade with floats, most of which relate to the year’s animal (from the Chinese zodiac). Thousands of people gather to watch and take part. To ensure the environment is protected, make sure you use a biodegradable eco-friendly lantern.

6. Hike Jade Mountain

Jade Mountain (also known as Yushan), the highest peak in Taiwan and East Asia with its peak at almost 4,000 meters above sea level, is a popular hike. If you don’t hike, there’s a special train that takes you to the peak before dawn (150 TWD). Most people do the hike over a couple of days, however, you can do it in a single day if you wake up super early and hike but that will mean over 10 hours of hiking. You’ll also need permits in advance so talk to your hotel or hostel staff as they can help you arrange those.

7. Tour Fo Guang Shan Monastery

This Zen monastery in Kaohsiung is a massive complex with eight towering pagodas that flank the monastery’s Big Buddha (which, at 36-meters tall, is the highest seated bronze Buddha in the world). Built in 1967 and spanning over 74 acres, the complex has a spacious outdoor walkway lined by manicured gardens as well as the huge pagodas. There are also over 14,000 statues of the Buddha here. Admission is free (donations are welcome) and there’s a delicious vegetarian restaurant inside with a huge buffet.

8. Visit the National Palace Museum

This museum, located in Taipei, has a collection of over 70,000 artifacts from Imperial China. Most of the collection was brought to Taiwan during the Chinese Civil War (1929–1947). In addition to their permanent exhibits, there are also rotating exhibits throughout the year as well as a section for children. There are free daily tours in English as well as a detailed audio guide if you’d rather explore yourself. Admission is 350 TWD.

9. See the Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall

Officially known as Liberty Square, this national monument was built in 1976 in honor of Chiang Kai-shek, former president of the Republic of China. He ruled mainland China from 1928 to 1949, and then in Taiwan from 1949 until his death in 1975. The memorial also houses a library and a museum that documents Chiang Kai-shek’s life and career. Tours in English are available daily but must be booked in advance. Admission is free.

10. Take a cooking class

Taiwan is a foodie’s dream and I always overindulge while I’m here. Noodle soups, incredible rice dishes, amazing buns, dumplings, and scallion pancakes are just some of the tasty local offerings. While cooking classes here are a little pricey, I think they are worth it if you really want to learn about the food. The cooking skills (and recipes) make a great souvenir to take home too. Expect to pay around 2,000 TWD for a class.

11. Go hiking

Taipei has plenty of hiking trails just outside town that are easily accessible. There are easy, moderate, and challenging trails, as well as both short and full-day hikes. Some suggested trails to check out are Xiangshan (easy, 45minutes), Bitoujiao (moderate, 2-3 hours), Jinmianshan (easy, 1.5 hours), Huang Didian (hard, 5 hours), and Pingxi Crag (moderate, 2-3 hours).

12. Visit Orchid Island

Located 64 kilometers (40 miles) off the southeastern coast, this lush, volcanic island offers hiking, swimming, diving, and amazing hot springs. There are also underground houses here, built to avoid the numerous typhoons that ravage the region. The island is home to only 5,000 people too. Visit the Lanyu Flying Fish Cultural Museum to learn about local culture. Flights from Taipei take just over an hour and cost around 4,500 TWD.

13. Hike Wuling Peak

For more hiking, head to Wuling Peak on Hehuan Mountain. Located in Central Taiwan, it stands 3,275 meters (10,744 feet) above sea level and makes for a good day trip for anyone looking to spend more time outdoors. The peak here is so high you can actually look down into a sea of clouds below. A round-trip hike takes around 2-3 hours. Be sure to bring a raincoat as well as water and sunscreen.

14. Explore the Northern Coastline

Head to the coast to see the otherworldly lunar-like landscapes at Yehliu Geopark. There are all kinds of unique rock formations here, including one that looks like Queen Elizabeth (which took over 4,000 years to form). It’s a popular tourist attraction so try to get here early to beat the crowds. Admission is 120 TWD.

15. Visit Tainan

This is Taiwan’s oldest urban area, established by the Dutch East India Company in 1624. Located in the south near Kaohsiung, Tainan was the capital of Taiwan from 1683-1887. There are all kinds of temples to visit here (don’t miss the Confucius Temple), several night markets, a historic old town, and a massive department store reminiscent of the Ginza district in Tokyo. There is also a nearby mangrove and wildlife reserve (it’s part of Taijiang National Park) just 30 minutes away by car.

16. Explore Taichung

Taichung is located in west-central Taiwan and is the second-largest city in the country. Spend some time walking the Parkway (a corridor of greenery perfect for walking and exploring), visit the Feng Chia Night Market, see the botanical garden, and explore the massive National Museum of Natural Science. If you’re a history buff, don’t miss the Taichung Folklore Park which is home to several traditional Taiwanese homes and buildings that showcase the country’s history.

Taiwan Travel Costs

Accommodation – Hostels dorms with 6-8-bed cost between 300-700 TWD per night. A private room costs anything from 1,000-3,000 TWD. Every place has free Wi-Fi and most hostels have self-catering facilities and include free breakfast.

Budget hotels start at 950 TWD for a small room with a double bed. Most rooms have AC but free breakfast is rarely included.

Airbnb is available around the country with private rooms starting at 650 TWD per night, though they average at least triple that. For an entire home or apartment, expect to pay at least 1,000 TWD (though prices average triple that). Book early to find the best deals.

Wild camping is generally prohibited but there are lots of campgrounds around the country. Expect to pay at least 300 TWD for a basic plot without electricity.

Food – Taiwanese cuisine is a mix of influences, from Chinese, Japanese (owing to the Japanese occupation), and Western traditions. Seafood is a huge staple, with squid, crab, and shellfish being especially popular. Braised pork, oyster omelets, fish balls, and stinky tofu are just some of the many dishes you can find around the country.

Food at the outdoor markets costs around 35-100 TWD depending on what you get. An order of dumplings costs around 100 TWD. Noodle soup or a basic rice dish costs around 70 TWD.

A meal at a simple sit-down restaurant serving local cuisine costs around 120 TWD.

Western food costs between 100-400 TWD. Burgers (often made with pork rather than beef) are on the lower end while pizza is on the higher end.

Fast food is pretty popular here. MosBurger (the best fast food joint in the country) costs around 165 TWD for a combo meal. Sushi, one of the most popular food options, costs 300–450 TWD for a meal. (Plates at the conveyor belt places are around 30 TWD each.

A three-course meal at a mid-range restaurant costs 500 TWD. A beer or a latte/cappuccino costs around 80 TWD while a bottle of water costs 21 TWD.

For a week’s worth of groceries including staples like rice, seasonal produce, and seafood, expect to pay 2,000-2,500 TWD.

Backpacking Taiwan Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 1,050 TWD per day, you can stay in a hostel dorm, eat some street food, cook some meals, limit your drinking, do free walking tours, and take public transportation to get around.

On a mid-range budget of 2,700 TWD per day, you can stay in an Airbnb, enjoy some Western food, drink more, take the bus between cities, and do more paid activities like museum visits and cooking classes.

On a “luxury” budget of 5,600 TWD per day, you can stay in a hotel, rent a car or take the train between cities, take guided tours to the islands, go diving, eat out at any restaurant you want, and visit as many attractions as you want. This is just the ground floor for luxury though. The sky is the limit!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in TWD.

Taiwan Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Taiwan is an affordable country so you don’t need to worry about breaking the bank here. As long as you stick to local cuisine and limit your drinking, it’s hard to spend a lot of money. Here are a few tips to keep your spending in check:

• Skip the high-speed trains – The high-speed trains in Taiwan are super convenient but expensive. Stick to the slower local trains, which are about 50% cheaper than the HSR.
• Eat at the food markets – The food in Taiwan is world-class and the best food is at the night markets that dot all the cities.
• Avoid Western food – Western food is twice the price of Taiwanese food. It’s also not amazing so stick to the local cuisine to save money.
• Take free walking tours – Taipei, Jiufen, Tainan, and Kaohsiung all have free walking tours from companies like Like It Formosa . They’re my favorite walking tour company in Taiwan. Their tours are fun, informative, and free. Just remember to tip your guide at the end.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water here needs to be boiled before drinking so bring a bottle with a filter to ensure you have safe drinking water. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter to you can be sure you water is safe and clean.

Where to Stay in Taiwan

Taiwan has plenty of fun and affordable hostels. Here are my suggested places to stay:

• Formosa 101 (Taipei)
• Star Hostel (Taipei)
• T-Life Hostel (Taichung)
• Fuqi Hostel-Heping (Tainan)

How to Get Around Taiwan

Public transportation – All of the major cities have public transportation that is fast, safe, and reliable. Fares start at 15 TWD and go up depending on how far you travel. Taipei and Kaohsiung both have metro systems with tickets costing between 20-65 TWD. A single-day pass in Taipei costs 150 TWD, while a day pass in Kaohsiung costs 180 TWD.

Bus – The bus is the cheapest way to get around Taiwan. Intercity coach buses are available to all major cities around Taiwan, including Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung. They are comfortable, modern, safe, and have air conditioning (too much, usually, so bring a sweater). The two main intercity bus companies are Ubus and Kuo-Kuang Bus. For fares and timetable information, visit taiwanbus.tw.

A bus from Taipei to Kaohsiung takes around five hours and costs 600-1,000 TWD while the three-hour trip from Taipei to Taichung costs as little as 90 TWD.

Train – The high-speed trains (HSR) in Taiwan are super convenient, however, they only go down the west side of the island and are very expensive. For example, a ticket from Taipei to Kaohsiung costs around 1,500 TWD.

The “local” trains are much more affordable, often 50% cheaper. The trip from Taipei to Kaohsiung on a local train costs just 845 TWD. It’s also just 515-800 TWD from Taipei to Tainan and 675-800 TWD from Taipei to Taichung via the local train.

The HSR line doesn’t pass through city centers, so you either need to take a bus or train from the HSR station, which also costs more time and money.

Flying – Domestic flights are relatively affordable, however, they are much more expensive than the bus or train. The two-hour flight from Taipei to Kaohsiung costs more than 4,000 TWD.

Flights to neighboring Hong Kong start at 3,600 TWD and take five hours (they can be as much as 6,500 TWD so it’s best if you’re flexible with your dates) while flights to Singapore take five hours and cost around 3,500 TWD.

Car Rental – Driving here is safe, however, car rentals here are expensive, usually costing at least 1,500 TWD per day. You need an International Driving Permit (IDP) to rent a vehicle here. For the best car rental prices, use Discover Cars .

When to Go to Taiwan

July and August are the hottest months in the country and the most popular time to visit. Temperatures often hit 35°C (95°F) and prices are a little higher as well. It’s a great time to visit if you want to hit the beach.

The shoulder months of May-June and September-October offer the best balance of crowds, weather, and price. It’s still warm enough to enjoy the outdoors and do some hiking without getting rained out.

Winters in Taiwan are a little rainy but still warm, with daily highs around 18–20°C (65-68°F). Prices are a bit lower and it’s the perfect time to visit the relaxing (and relatively empty) hot springs. Expect big crowds in Taipei in December-January for the Chinese New Year.

How to Stay Safe in Taiwan

Taiwan is very safe, consistently ranking well on the Global Peace Index as one of the safest destinations in the world. Crimes against tourists are super rare. Overall, you are unlikely to encounter any problems in Taiwan and I never felt unsafe in the country. There are no scams here, everyone is super nice, and crime is super rare. It’s a great place to visit. My friends who live here also never have problems.

Solo female travelers should feel safe here for all those reasons. However, the standard precautions you take anywhere apply here too (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.). There are numerous solo female travel blogs that can provide more specific tips.

Earthquakes are common in the region so make sure you’re familiar with your accommodation’s emergency exits. Between July and November, typhoons can occur so make sure you stay up to date on the latest weather — especially if you’re near the coast or out hiking.

110 is the emergency number for police while 119 is the emergency number for fire and ambulance.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Taiwan Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Taiwan Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on China travel and continue planning your trip:

The 23 Best Things to Do in Hong Kong

Hong Kong Itinerary: What to Do in 4 (or More) Days

My Favorite Restaurants in Hong Kong

What Hitchhiking Solo as a Female in China Taught Me

7 Lessons Learned from 3 Months in China

How to Travel the Trans-Siberian Railway

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Taiwan Travel Tips: 24 Essential Things To Know Before You Go

30 May 2020.

Exceptionally beautiful, well organised and unfailingly friendly, Taiwan is a wonderfully easy place to travel.

With spectacular hiking trails and fairytale forests, tastebud-tingling street eats and world-class tea, a rich culture and fascinating history, mindboggling mountains and remote natural hot springs, along with the warmest welcome I’ve ever encountered, my five weeks in Taiwan made for one of my favourite trips of 2019. 

From traveller safety and sticking to your budget to local food and avoiding the crowds, these are my top Taiwan travel tips to help you fall in love with this place just as much as I did. 

* This post includes affiliate links and any purchases made through these links will earn me a small commission at no extra cost to you. *

1  |  Download These Useful Apps For Your Trip

From breaking through the language barrier and deciphering streetside menus to figuring out the train network and finding the right hiking trails, these apps will make travelling in Taiwan a whole lot easier and can all be used offline.

Google Translate   |   Normally I just muddle way through any language difficulties with a few key phrases, an awkward smile and plenty of charades, but given many of us won’t be able to read the alphabet here, Google Translate is an absolute lifesaver. Make sure you download the Chinese dictionary before arriving and you’ll be able to use the instant translate option by hovering your phone over any sign or menu. It’s not always entirely accurate, but it’s better than nothing.

Google Maps Offline  |   You can download a map of the entire island of Taiwan offline which is incredibly useful for navigation and includes all train stations, bus stops, MRT routes, restaurants and attractions. Litter your map with stars to keep track of your top destinations.  

Maps.Me  |  While Google Maps is great for cities, Maps.Me is perfect for any hiking adventures. The island is a veritable maze of tiny tracks and many of them are captured on this app. It also often has the Chinese place names written in English characters which can be very useful. 

2  |  You probably won’t need a visa to visit Taiwan

Unlike China which has a complicated visa application process, many nationalities are able to visit Taiwan visa free.

Citizens of Australia, Canada, the USA, the EU and the UK, among others, are able to visit for up to 90 days without a visa, while a number of other nations are eligible to visit visa-free for shorter periods of 14 to 30 days or apply for an e-visa.

Nationals from most countries in South America, Africa and Southern Asia will require a visa. See here for further information.

3  |  Taiwan Is Not Technically A Country

Officially, Taiwan is called the Republic of China and exists as a province of the People’s Republic of China (aka China), but it has many of the hallmarks of an independent nation, including a democratically elected President, military forces and a constitution.

In short, it’s a little complicated.

On the international stage, Taiwan is not widely recognised, in large part because this would severely disrupt any political relationship with China. Taiwan has been barred from having a seat at the UN and for major international events where China is also participating, it is either refused as an independent participant or allowed to participate under the name of ‘Chinese Taipei’, such as in the Olympic Games.

Today, the discussion around Taiwanese independence or unification is a polarising one with tensions escalating in recent months, though surveys show the majority of locals believe leaving things as they are is the best way forward. 

That said, to simplify things I have referred to Taiwan as a country throughout these guides.

READ NEXT:  17 INCREDIBLE THINGS TO DO IN TAIWAN  

4  |  outside of the cities, english is not widely spoken.

The language barrier was definitely something I was concerned about before arriving in Taiwan, especially as I wouldn’t be able to read the language either.

But I really needn’t have worried.

In general, English is not widely spoken, but virtually everyone I met was so wonderfully warm and welcoming that they would go out of their way to help you and if all else failed it was Google Translate to the rescue.

That said, at the very least learning a few basic phrases like ‘Nihao’ or ‘She She’ is always worthwhile .

5  |  You will feel welcomed

‘Welcome to Taiwan!’

This was a phrase I was greeted with countless times during my trip, often accompanied by open arms, a toothy grin, a handshake and the occasional selfie. 

As a blonde-haired, blue-eyed traveller, I never had any hope of blending in in these parts, but I certainly never expected to be welcomed with such genuine warmth at every step of the way.

There was that couple who walked me to the correct bus stop in Taipei when they saw I was visibly lost, the fellow hiker that spent hours chatting about her favourite trails to ensure I got to experience the best of the mountains, the passengers who jumped up without question to help me retrieve my heavy bags off the train and the many, many people who would stop me during the day just to say hello and wish me a pleasant trip. 

Perhaps sweetest of all though was on one of the rare occasions when I had hitched a ride through the mountains with a fellow traveller instead oh waiting several hours for the bus. The couple who had kindly taken us had reached their final destination at a busy viewpoint, but instead of just dropping us by the roadside to continue on our way, they ran around the car park asking every single person if they were heading in our direction. When that failed they stood on the roadside and flagged down each passing car until they found one that would take us.

Of all the things I loved about Taiwan, and there were many, the unwavering kindness in ways both big and small was what left me truly humbled and made the place an absolute joy to explore. This kind of hospitality is not something I’ll be forgetting in a hurry.

6  |  It’s a reasonably affordable destination

Taiwan falls somewhere between expensive Japan and wallet-friendly South East Asia. 

For a five-week trip that mostly involved street food and hostels, along with the odd luxury like a couple of days of diving, a foot massage and a handful of hotel stays thrown in for good measure, my daily budget came out to €32.  

Prices for a hostel dorm bed generally start at around €10 but can be considerably higher in more remote areas like Green Island or Hehuanshan . Popular destinations like Alishan will also command higher rates, especially over weekends and during cherry blossom season. For private rooms, family-run homestays or small guesthouses usually present the best value rather than hotels.  

Street food and local dishes are slightly more expensive than elsewhere in Asia, but munching your way around a night market is unlikely to break the bank (and should not be missed!). 

Local long-distance transport is very reasonably priced and will get you virtually anywhere in the country, while the west coast’s High Speed Rail is a fast and efficient option for anyone not on a tight travel budget. 

GET PLANNING:  HOW TO PLAN THE PERFECT DAY TRIP TO TAROKO NATIONAL PARK

7  |  avoid popular spots on weekends and holidays.

Locals and weekenders absolutely love getting out of the city to explore the countryside and with such astounding natural beauty at every turn, why wouldn’t you.

This does however mean that some of Taiwan’s most beloved spots can become exceptionally crowded on weekends and holidays which can detract somewhat what from their beauty so are best avoided during these periods if you can manage. 

Places that are easily accessible from Taipei, such as Taroko Gorge , Yangmingshan National Park , Jiufen and Shifen, generally receive the most visitors, but destinations that lie further afield and make for an excellent overnight trip ( Sun Moon Lake and Alishan , for example) can also become very busy with visitors. 

Of course, planning your trip around the day of the week isn’t always possible, but if you can, I’d suggest visiting during the week. If weekends are your only option, be sure to book your accommodation well in advance and make an early start when you arrive.

8  |  There are many ways to spell things in English

Translating complex Chinese characters phonetically into English words isn’t always straightforward and often leads to places having several different spellings.

The ‘Zh’ sound is one of the most confusing as it is widely used and can also be written using variations of ‘Sh’, ‘Ch’ or ‘J’ characters.

Just know that if it looks vaguely correct and seems to be in the right location, there’s a good chance it’s the same place.

Well, except for Taichung and Taitung, they’re completely different.

9  |  It’s a perfect destination for solo female travel

Travelling to a new destination as a solo female never fails to bring with it a host of questions.

Is it normal for women to be out alone? How conservatively do I need to dress? Is it safe to wander around at night?

Thankfully, I have never felt quite so safe in a place as I did in Taiwan. Everyone I encountered was nothing short of welcoming, extremely kind and respectful. No gawking stares. No catcalling. No creepy whispers as you walk by.

Though I always take the usual precautions when I travel, here I felt comfortable enough to loosen the reigns a little which was wonderfully refreshing and meant I could confidently explore cities alone at night, go hiking solo and even went as far as to hitchhike in the mountains rather than wait for a bus which is something I never normally do.

Taiwan is the highest-ranking nation in Asia and among the top in the world overall when it comes to gender equality and it really shows.

10  |  You’ll Always Find A Bargain Online

For some of Taiwan’s most popular and iconic experiences, you’ll find some excellent deals online on anything from transport to dining out.

If it’s something you’re planning to do anyway, why wait needlessly in a queue or pay more than you need to!

Popular choices include early-bird discounts for the High Speed Rail , skip-the-line access to the Taipei 101 Observatory , pre-ordered meals at the incredibly popular Din Tai Fung , one of Taipei’s best restaurants, or discounted boba milk tea from the always busy Xing Fu Tang . 

For more great deals on transport, tours, foodie adventures and day trips, check here . 

READ NEXT:  THE ULTIMATE GUIDE TO ALISHAN | TAIWAN’S MAGICAL ANCIENT FOREST

11  |  it’s an incredible destination for hiking, just don’t forget your permit.

For avid hikers and lovers of the outdoors, Taiwan is an absolute dream destination.

From dramatic emerald hills that cascade toward the windswept sea, to dense bamboo forests that feel like you’ve stepped into a storybook, to high alpine peaks that reward you with unparalleled vistas, there’s really no better way to experience Taiwan than with a pair of dusty boots and the trail at your feet.

You’ll find a vast network of hiking trails that crisscross the island and make it incredibly easy to get off the beaten path, and while many are well-marked and free to access, there are a handful of more challenging tracks or those where numbers are restricted that do require you to have a permit.

Some are easy to secure just a few weeks in advance, whereas others involve a slightly complicated application process and need to be applied for months in advance. There are also occasionally two different permits required for a hike – a National Park Entry Permit and Mountain Entry Permit (sometimes called a Police Permit).

If you’re a keen hiker hoping to head into the mountains, I’d highly, highly recommend locking your plans in early so that you can acquire the appropriate paperwork on time and avoid being disappointed.

Popular hiking trails that will require a permit are the Zhuilu Old Trail in Taroko Gorge , Yushan, Taiwan’s highest peak, and Shei Pa National Park which is famous for its high ridge trail.

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A Short Guide To Shizhao + Fenchihu | Two Serene Alternatives For Visiting Alishan

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Teapot Mountain: A Fantastic Day Hike In Northern Taiwan

Hehuanshan: A Comprehensive Guide To Taiwan’s Alpine Paradise (That Doesn’t Require A Permit!)

12  |  get an easycard as soon as you arrive.

Do yourself a favour and pick up an EasyCard as soon as you arrive in Taiwan.

They’re available at the airport and convenience stores like 7-11 and Family Mart and can be used on public transport throughout the country, often giving a reduced fare.

Most importantly, it will also save you from having to rummage around for the correct change every time you need to jump on the metro or bus.

The card itself is $100 (€3) and you can top up your balance as needed. Then, simply tap on and off for every trip.

If you’re someone who likes to plan ahead, you also can order your EasyCard in advance for collection at the airport here . When I bought mine in Taipei, it was cash only so buying it in advance means you can collect your card directly from the counter rather than searching for an ATM in your post-flight sleep-deprived state.

13  |  Public Transport Is Excellent

Public transport in Taiwan is efficient and widespread making travelling across the country a breeze. 

In Taipei, the metro or MRT is frequent, cheap and easy to use, while the vast web of local trains and buses make a number of day trip destinations in northern Taiwan easily accessible. Within other major cities, buses will be your bread and butter of getting around.

For travel further afield, local trains ( TRA ) are cheaper, slower and more frequent than the high-speed trains and cover a much wider network in Taiwan, travelling up and down both sides of the country and often rewarding you with incredible scenery along the way, particularly on the mountainous east coast. Check fares and timetables here .

Travelling down the west coast only, the Taiwan High Speed Rail ( THSR ) runs between Taipei and Kaohsiung’s Zuoying Station in just 2 hours. Though they’re quite a bit more expensive than the slower local trains, they’re incredibly efficient for anyone short on time and offer generous discounts for multi-day tickets and early bird purchases (sometimes up to 35%). Check the timetable here or get a discount for advance bookings here .

Taiwan’s mountainous heart is the only place that is somewhat challenging to reach. For popular destinations, there are generally dedicated ‘tourist shuttles’ or long-distance buses though services are often infrequent and reliable timetables hard to find. Your guesthouse should be able to point you in the right direction.

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14  |  take care when renting a scooter.

Travelling by scooter is a way of life for locals and a rite of passage for travellers in virtually all of Asia. But while many countries may turn a blind eye to unlicensed and inexperienced foreigners, Taiwan generally takes a stricter stance.

Officially, you are required to have either a motorbike license or an International Drivers License that covers motorbikes. A regular driver’s license isn’t good enough.

That said, there are exceptions and not every operator is stringent in following regulations, but after a series of tragic accidents involving tourists over the years, enforcing of the rules is becoming more common.

The good news is that you’ll virtually always find electric scooters available for rent alongside the usual petrol variety, and while these tend to be slightly more expensive and slower, they can be hired without an official license as well as being better for the environment.

15  |  Prices increase during weekends and flower season

Another darn good reason to avoid travel on the weekends is that as Friday and Saturday roll around, it’s not uncommon for accommodation prices to double, capitalising on the many of weekend tourists heading out to explore more of this beautiful island.

Destinations that become wrapped up in cherry blossom fever can also command far higher prices than usual during peak times.

If you’re on a tight budget, plan ahead and try to avoid key tourist areas during these times, or find accommodation that won’t hit you with a price hike.

HIT THE TRAIL:  EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT VISITING HEHUANSHAN

16  |  there’s a great hostel scene.

As a budget traveller, you’ll have no issue finding affordable, high-quality hostels in every major city in Taiwan.

From modest and homely hideaways to trendy well-designed spaces, most hostels have embraced the capsule-style of bed with a light, power socket and shelf, and a roll down blind or curtain to offer an extra level of privacy.

Many hostels are also surprisingly roomy, with some even providing double dorm beds as the norm, making it far too easy to escape into your own little bubble at the end of a busy day, separate from the noisy packers and late-night light-turner-on-erers.

Search for your Taiwan accommodation here.

17  |  Don’t Miss The Night Markets

Tightly packed bodies jostle between food stalls, smoke billows into narrow laneways, large woks simmer away with century-old recipes and intoxicating aromas fill the air.

You can’t possibly visit Taiwan and not spend at least an evening or two absorbed in the clamour of its night markets. Aside from being a feast for the senses, they’re one of the best places to sample Taiwan’s street food and local delicacies. 

Taiwanese cuisine is very much a melting pot derived from various ethnicities with Japanese and Chinese flavours being prominent, alongside the influence of indigenous and Hakka communities. These were some of my favourite dishes.  

Beef Noodle Soup   |    Taiwan’s national dish, this hearty concoction of braised beef, noodles and a flavour-packed spiced broth is one not to miss.  

Dumplings   |   Steam ’em, fry ’em, stick ’em in a soup, there are a hundred different ways to enjoy the humble dumpling, all of them delicious and sure to put you into a blissful food coma many times during your trip. The standard filling contains pork, but there are numerous restaurants that offer veggie options as well.   

Scallion Pancakes   |    This was the very first thing I ate in Taiwan and I’m still craving one all these months later! A flaky, crispy roti-style flatbread woven with finely chopped green onions, this simple street snack can be found across Taiwan and is so damn good. You can choose your own fillings like cheese, smoked chicken or peppered beef, but my go-to was fried egg, Thai basil and spicy sauce. Yum!

Peanut Ice Cream Roll   |   A wafer-thin crepe filled with a generous sprinkle of shaved peanut brittle, vibrant fruity ice cream and garnish of fresh coriander (cilantro). The lot is bundled into a small burrito and is a textural sensation. Some stalls try to skip over the coriander bit, but in my humble opinion, this is where the real genius lies.        

Stinky Tofu   |    Ok, so this wasn’t exactly one of my favourites, but you kinda can’t leave Taiwan without giving it a go. While it’s an acquired taste and the stench can be… overwhelming – it’s certainly a dish that you’ll smell long before you see – it’s also one of Taiwan’s most beloved delicacies. The tofu is prepared in a brine of fermented milk, vegetables, meat and aromatics where it may sit for months before being served.

Taiwanese Hamburgers  |    A fluffy steamed bun stuffed with sticky pork belly and some greenery, these tasty handfuls will leaving you wanting just another bite. Though this is the typical version, many shops also offer veggie options with either mushroom, tofu or egg as the main filling.      

There are dozens of night markets scattered around Taiwan, so be sure to arrive with an empty belly, wander slowly and munch your way through all the things! 

18  |  Bring a set of reusable cutlery

Between the chaotic night markets, ancient hole-in-the-wall eateries and fantastic sit-down restaurants, dining out in Taiwan is an experience in itself.

Unfortunately, many places prioritise convenience over all else and will often only provide you with disposable single-use plastic cutlery, even if you’re eating in.

Instead of churning your way through what will literally be hundreds of unnecessary and completely avoidable pieces of plastic by the end of your trip, pack a set of reusable utensils in your day bag ready to be used at any occasion.

I carryied around a pair of chopsticks, a metal fork and a tablespoon in my handbag and used them on a daily basis. If you’re a lover of takeaway drinks, adding a thick reusable straw and/or a collapsible cup is also a good idea.

GET HIKING:  A COMPLETE GUIDE TO YANGMINGSHAN NATIONAL PARK

19  |  boba tea is life.

I had my first ever boba milk tea on my second day in Taipei and it was love at first sip.

So, naturally, I dove straight into making up for lost time. 

Though now popular across the world, this delectably creamy and deliciously refreshing drink originated in Taiwan and you can’t walk a block here without passing several tea shops. Some specialise in green tea and fruit infusions, some focus on flavoured tapioca pearls and others strictly serve up the milky varieties. 

They’re all well-loved, they’re all found everywhere and the only thing for it is to try them all for yourself. 

My favourite was the signature brown sugar boba milk tea from perennially popular Xing Fu Tang. The mix of luxuriously creamy tea and not-too-sweet sticky caramel tapioca balls had me craving one every single day.

20  |  It’s not the best for vegetarians, but you can make it work

Full disclosure, I’m not a vegetarian, but I do try to limit my meat consumption to just a couple of times a week. In Taiwan, however, that wasn’t always easy with night markets being particularly challenging.

All major cities have dedicated vegetarian restaurants, but in small towns and mountains villages you may need to plan ahead.

In case your body is crying out for a vitamin kick and a healthy dose of fresh produce which the cuisine decidedly lacks, be sure to stock up with everything you’ll need for hiking and road snacks in the city as supplies in the countryside are often limited.

21  |  You’ll probably end up eating at a convenience store (and that’s totally fine!)

With so many delicious street eats to choose from, it may sound a little nutty to dine in a 7-11, but chances are it will happen at least once during your trip.

I had read a lot about the ubiquitous convenience stores before arriving in Taiwan and had quietly scoffed thinking I would never actually eat there while I had one of the world’s best foodie destinations on my doorstep.

Turns out, these shops are actually pretty bloody, well, convenient, and I, like many, many other travellers ended up eating here on more than one occasion.

Of course, sampling local delicacies from unassuming hole-in-the-wall eateries is an experience you absolutely shouldn’t miss in Taiwan, but when you’re running late for the train, are craving a familiar dish (hello green curry!), or just need a cheap eat in an expensive tourist town, these stores can be a lifesaver.

They’re always an affordable and reliable choice and I also heard from several vegetarian travellers that in smaller towns where veggie restaurants were limited, these were often the best option.

22  |  Typhoon Season is June to October

Typhoons generally hit Taiwan between June and October when a deluge of rain is dumped across the country accompanied by strong winds.

Surprisingly, this is peak tourist season and one of the most popular times for travel across the region, but expect to be met by gloomy skies, frequent rainy days and hot, humid conditions.

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23  |  when to go petal peeping.

Cherry blossom fever has become a global phenomenon in recent years and Taiwan is no exception. But along with these delicate white florals, the country also plays host to a number of other blooms that attract hoards of visitors to witness the landscapes erupting in a riot of colour.

With flower festivals in full swing, these tend to be the busiest time of year for certain regions so be sure to plan accordingly.

Cherry Blossoms  |   Springtime means cherry blossoms! In Yangmingshan National Park , blooms can arrive as early as February usually peaking by early March, while the higher altitude of Alishan means a later season between March and April. Other popular spots for cherry blossoms include Wuling Farm in the heart of the mountains and around Tianyuan Temple in New Taipei.

Rhododendrons  |  Next up on the flower enthusiast calendar is the rhododendron season where thousands of tiny florals unfurl across Taiwan’s landscapes and high mountains peaks. Taroko National Park and Hehuanshan are popular places to see the blooms with the peak viewing period lasting from April to June.

Daylilies  |   Arriving in late summer, golden daylilies blanket the lush plateau of Liushishishan or Sixty Stone Mountain that rises from the vast checkered plains of the East Rift Valley . Visit between August and September for the best of the blooms.

24  |  The Best Time To Visit Taiwan

Between the monsoonal rains, cherry blossom fever and oppressive summer mugginess, it can be hard to determine when the best time to visit Taiwan actually is.

While summer is when tourism booms across the country, the searing heat, crowds and high chance of storms mean this isn’t an ideal time to plan your trip.

Anytime between late autumn and spring are far more pleasant when you’ll be welcomed with comfortable temperatures, fewer visitors and low season prices for accommodation and tours. The only downside is that some tour operators or transport routes to popular summer destinations may not be running at full capacity.

Avid hikers should prepare for chilly conditions in the mountains outside of summer, while flower enthusiasts should consider visiting in spring when much of Taiwan bursts into colour.

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Ride-Sharing in Taiwan: Your Guide to the 20 Best Apps for Seamless Travel

• By Travel Desk
• November 12, 2023
• Apps , Featured , Technology , Travel

Are you planning to visit Taiwan soon? Looking for the best ride-sharing apps that can help you explore this beautiful country safely and affordably? Well, look no further. Ride-hailing providers like Uber are the only major apps available in Taiwan. Still, there are also a variety of other transportation and communication apps that can make your travel easier.

In this article, we’ll dive into everything about these best ride sharing apps in Taiwan with the latest updates so you can plan your trip smarter and save more.

Get ready for an enjoyable journey in beautiful Taiwan!

• Transportation apps like Tripool, Go! Taipei Metro and Bus+ make getting around Taiwan easy and convenient.
• General travel apps such as Klook, YouBike 2.0, Uber, and Agoda can help travelers in Taiwan plan their trips smarter and save more money.
• Wise is an award-winning mobile banking app that allows users to manage their money while traveling away from home in Taiwan.
• Weather Apps such as ‘Taiwan Weather’ are essential for planning enjoyable activities when traveling in this beautiful country.

Best Ride Sharing Apps in Taiwan: General Travel Apps

Explore the best of Taiwan with popular travel apps such as Klook, YouBike 2.0, Uber, Agoda, and others.

YouBike 2.0

YouBike 2.0 is a popular bike-sharing system in Taiwan, first launched in Taipei in 2012 as an initiative between the local government and Giant Bicycles. It is available for residents and visitors in major cities such as Taipei, New Taipei City, Kaohsiung, and Taichung.

This shared bicycle service provides people with convenient access to quick transportation options that are affordable and environmentally friendly. With its success so far it has plans of expanding its reach by installing 700 YouBike stations by the end of 2021 and 1,500 more by 2025 in New Taipei City alone.

Residents and travelers alike appreciate this great service for being handy while also maintaining sustainable transport practices which should be encouraged universally.

FindTaxi (Taiwan Taxi Finder)

FindTaxi is an efficient, reliable, and convenient taxi-searching platform for travelers in Taiwan. The app enables users to quickly find a taxi using their location or an address they enter.

Furthermore, it allows them to read up on reviews and profiles of drivers before choosing one for the ride. This helps guarantee users a safe and comfortable trip with a trustworthy driver.

FindTaxi’s Android application can be easily downloaded from the Google Play store free of cost making it highly accessible to all travelers. It is also popularly considered one of the best apps for hailing taxis in Taiwan due to its easy navigation, comprehensive drivers database, and quick access service it provides – helping tourists save time when moving around Taiwanese cities!

Uber is a widely known and popular rideshare app that allows users to order taxis directly from the app. With its convenience, Uber faced challenges in finding success in Taiwan since ride-sharing services are regulated differently there compared to many other countries worldwide.

To bridge the gap between taxi fleets and consumers, Uber formed partnerships with local companies in Taiwan that allowed them to offer ride-hailing services in multiple cities across the island.

UberX is a discount service that allows riders and drivers to agree on fares before each trip is made available. It quickly gained popularity among those looking for cheaper transport options while getting out of their comfort zone.

Klook is an excellent general travel app that offers discounted tickets to attractions, tours, and experiences. By using the Klook platform, travelers in Taiwan can easily access information on activities they may engage in as well as book flights, hotels, and rental cars.

With its easy-to-use interface, users can discover popular destination sights with interactive maps, discounted prices for top attractions around Taiwan, and deals tailored specifically for them.

Furthermore, Klook also allows travelers to enjoy unique experiences such as city day tours or cooking classes offered by local hosts. Through this app, travelers can access a wide variety of activities ranging from cultural sightseeing visits to adventure sports like mountain climbing or scuba diving!

With all these features readily available on the app’s user-friendly platform, Klook makes planning your journey stress-free and enjoyable! Those who wish a more comprehensive overview of the app & benefits it provides can read reviews available online – which include first-hand accounts written by its frequent users.

Agoda is one of the best travel apps for Taiwan, offering both locals and travelers a comprehensive range of features. Agoda helps users find new deals and cash rewards for Tainan hotels with its rates guarantee feature, allowing people to book more affordably.

Not only does Agoda help customers save money when booking accommodations in the city or country, but it also offers convenient flight and hotel promotions that are sure to delight all visitors looking to explore Taiwan at its fullest.

With such a great selection of amenities available in just one platform, it’s no surprise that Agoda has reached such a high status as an app preferred by many when it comes to visiting places in Taiwan.

Transportation Apps

From Tripool, Go! Taipei Metro and Bus+, there are numerous apps available for commuters in Taiwan to get around conveniently.

Tripool is a private hire driver app that operates throughout Taiwan. It’s a subsidiary of Round Taiwan Round, an established travel company in the country that helps arrange direct transportation services such as airport shuttles, business trips, and even hiking transport.

Tripool has become increasingly associated with ride-sharing apps and transportation apps in Taiwan and offers specific travel options, particularly in the Nantou region. Their user-friendly interface makes it extremely easy for users to access their services quickly whenever they desire with accurate fare estimates provided before booking any rides.

With their freshly updated technology, customers can be sure to receive hassle-free customer service where concerns related to pricing or safety are considered significantly when compared to other competitors out there in this market space.

Go! Taipei Metro

This app enables passengers to quickly find the nearest metro station and navigate their way around Taipei’s metro system. It includes convenient features such as real-time alerts for train service, line schedules, current fares and tickets, and station locations.

Additionally, passengers can use its “train meet-ups” feature which allows them to easily share their location and plan a meet-up with others while using the metro in Mandarin.

This helps users save time by finding their destination faster while reducing network connectivity issues from crowdsourced data-sharing services such as Uber or Tripool when traveling in Taiwan.

T Express is a ride-sharing app in Taiwan that provides travelers and locals with an affordable way to get around. It is one of the most popular apps for transportation in Taiwan, as it helps people easily and quickly find their desired destination.

It is especially useful due to its availability in major cities like Taipei, New Taipei, Kaohsiung, and Taichung. T Express not only offers rides but also serves as a navigation tool – users can plan trips and access real-time traffic information from within the app.

On top of this convenience, T Express allows travelers to enjoy even cheaper fares when taking cars or scooters via discounts offered through partnerships between the company and local businesses.

Bus+ is a comprehensive transportation app designed to make navigating within Taiwan easy and efficient. Unlike ride-sharing services like Uber or Grab, Bus+ does not offer private car service. Instead, it features routes for traveling by buses, taxi cabs, and subway systems across the greater metropolitan area of Taiwan.

Bethlehem’s unique interactive maps also allow users to find bus routes, plan their trips ahead of time, and even buy tickets in advance for travel within various regions of Taiwan. Additionally, its integration with Google Maps offers users step-by-step navigation as they move about within the country.

With Bus+, riders can always stay informed on current road conditions and traffic situations to ensure a safe journey throughout Taiwan—a great feature that is especially helpful for visitors who are unfamiliar with the roads here!

Alipedia is an online transportation service in Taiwan that allows users to quickly find convenient rides. It is the most suitable solution for those who are new to the country or need a way to access multiple ride-sharing options in one place.

With Alipedia, users can search through different ride-sharing apps such as Uber, Tripool, and GoTaipei Metro on the same platform and can compare their prices. Additionally, it provides information about other services like bike rentals, which are perfect for traveling across Taiwan’s many mountainous areas.

Alipedia also provides detailed travel guides for popular locations in Taiwan, along with an insight into cultural norms and etiquette when traveling within it ensuring you have all of the best tips before your journey abroad! If you’re interested you can also read Best Ride Sharing Apps in the UK.

Useful Apps for Travelling in Taiwan

[Video Credits @LeoDoesLife]

Now we’ll check out a few more useful apps you may need while traveling in Taiwan.

Google Translate (Lens)

Google Translate (Lens) is a must-have for traveling in Taiwan. With the updated translation app from Google, users can now use text/voice input and image recognition technology to translate different languages conveniently.

It eliminates the tedious typing out of phrases that you want to be translated by using voice input or photographing the words you need to be translated with the help of its Lens function. As Taiwan is often regarded as Asia’s melting pot, enhancing communication with locals can greatly improve their experience.

Therefore, this user-friendly translation tool provided by Google is an invaluable asset for travelers in Taiwan looking to converse with natives regardless of language ability levels.

Taiwan Weather

Taiwan Weather is an essential app for travelers visiting the country. It provides timely and comprehensive weather updates so you know what to expect when planning activities during your stay in Taiwan, like temperature, humidity levels, precipitation chances, and more.

On average, the temperature in Taipei is around 23°C (73°F) year-round, making it very pleasant to explore the city regardless of season. Additionally, this invaluable tool makes it easy for tourists to plan their itinerary according to weather conditions – giving vital warnings that will allow them to travel smartly and safely while having a memorable experience in Taiwan!

Wise is an award-winning, all-in-one mobile banking and budgeting app that helps travelers in Taiwan manage their money. With Wise, users can connect to multiple bank accounts to get a real-time view of funds and have full control over spending decisions.

The Wise app also offers features like multicurrency exchange capabilities for easy international payments, chat custodians to ensure no sensitive data is lost in transit when making payments, budget trackers, automated saving plans with up to 20 savings goals, and IBAN generation amongst other benefits.

Whether looking for reliable transportation around town or needing help managing their finances while traveling – Wise aims to make life easier for those away from home either temporarily or permanently. Additionally, you can also read Best Ride Sharing Apps in Singapore.

KKDay provides access to various unique activities and tourist experiences in Taiwan. With more than 30,000 offerings across categories like sightseeing tours, transportation services, food & drink experiences, short-term accommodations, or cultural events – KKDay has something for everyone! Its mobile app simplifies the booking process by allowing users to browse its catalog and easily book their preferred activity/tour or hotel stay.

Furthermore, the “Travel Buddies” feature allows members to connect with local friends and guides who can help you better plan your holiday experience in Taiwan. All bookings made on KKDay are also covered by Travel Insurance – perfect for those seeking peace of mind when traveling around Taiwan.

Booking is an app designed for travelers that makes finding and booking accommodations, transportation, and other travel-related services hassle-free. With Booking in Taiwan users can quickly find the best deals on flights, trains, buses, hotels, and more.

Additionally, they get access to exclusive offerings only available through the app such as discounts on car rentals from designated areas. Through this app, travelers can track their reservations easily with just one tap of a button while searching for their preferred travel options at any hour.

It also helps them to save time by automatically comparing flight prices instead of having to enter search information into multiple flight aggregator sites manually. Booking allows you to book your tickets within minutes with instant confirmation after payment or even book instantly for same-day check-in!

Whether it’s last-minute trips or well-planned schedules up ahead – this service will offer convenience for all traveler types in Taiwan looking for great value deals when traveling in our beautiful country!

Taiwan Railways Administration

The Taiwan Railways Administration (TRA) is the most comprehensive transportation network provider in Taiwan. It operates an extensive railway system in Taiwan, connecting major cities throughout the country and serving as a crucial transport link between Taipei and other critical urban centers like Taichung, Kaohsiung, and Tainan.

TRA provides convenient modes of transportation for travelers—from express trains that reach their destinations quickly to commuter lines providing easy access to local hotspots.

The TRA offers regular updates and improvements to enhance the overall travel experience of all train passengers; this includes new ticketing systems that ensure smooth payment transaction processes with fewer queues or delays on its various rail corridors.

Pleco (Chinese Dictionary)

is a Chinese dictionary and flashcard app that offers great value and convenience for those looking to translate Chinese. It has all the features one would expect in a translation app: an audio function for pronunciation practice, various learning modes to cater to different levels of learners, as well as support for both simplified and traditional Chinese characters.

Pleco is praised for its simplicity and practicality in translating phrases or words quickly and accurately in everyday conversations. As the recognition of its accuracy grows over time, users have increasingly relied on it as an essential tool while visiting Taiwan or engaging with locals online.

Furthermore, native English speakers can also benefit from this app by using its advanced functionalities such as writing practice entries or locking screens.

Benefits of Using Ride Sharing Apps in Taiwan

Ride-sharing apps are gaining popularity in Taiwan due to the convenience, cost savings, safety, and environmental benefits they offer. The apps make travel easy, affordable, and eco-friendly.

More Convenient Transportation

Ride-sharing apps provide an incredibly convenient way to get around major cities and towns in Taiwan. Instead of having to hail a taxi on the street or navigate confusing public transportation systems, you can simply use your smartphone to request a ride within seconds. The driver will come directly to your location, eliminating the need to walk to a bus stop or train station. This saves significant time and energy when traveling.

Ride sharing also gives you access to door-to-door service, allowing pickup and drop-off at your destination, unlike buses or trains with fixed routes. Overall, ride-sharing offers unparalleled convenience compared to traditional transportation methods in Taiwan.

Affordable Prices

In addition to superior convenience, ride-sharing apps often provide cheaper fares compared to taxis in Taiwan. The apps are designed to dynamically set competitive, budget-friendly prices based on supply and demand at any given time. They also run frequent promotional offers, coupons, and discounts to keep costs low for riders.

You can additionally split the fare with friends by booking shared rides, increasing the per-person price. With options to book standard, premium, or shared rides, riders have control to choose the most affordable ride for their needs. The pricing flexibility and affordability make ride-sharing very appealing financially in Taiwan.

Improved Safety

Ride-sharing companies implement various important features that prioritize customer safety. When you book a ride, you can see your driver’s name, photo, and vehicle details to confirm the right person to pick you up. Every ride is tracked using GPS mapping technology so you can follow your route in real-time and share it with others if needed.

After each trip, you can rate your driver to provide feedback on any safety issues, which helps flag problems. With these screening, monitoring, and accountability layers, ride-sharing offers a far safer transportation option than unregulated taxis.

Reduced Traffic and Emissions

Widespread use of ride-sharing apps can have significant positive impacts on road congestion and environmental pollution in Taiwan’s urban areas. By enabling people to share trips in one vehicle rather than traveling separately, ride-sharing inherently reduces the total number of cars on the roads. Fewer vehicles directly alleviate traffic congestion, especially during high-volume times.

Additionally, the sophisticated algorithms used by ride-sharing companies optimize routing and dispatching to minimize unnecessary driving and idling on Taiwanese streets. With fewer vehicle miles traveled these apps help lower air pollution and greenhouse gas emissions. Ride-sharing promotes more eco-friendly transportation in Taiwan.

Tips and Tricks for Maximizing Your Ride-Sharing Experience in Taiwan

Here, get some easy tips and tricks to make your journey smoother. 

Research Apps Thoroughly

Spend time before your trip reading reviews and comparing the top ride-sharing apps used in Taiwan like Uber, Grab, GoShare, Moovn, and more. Look at their coverage areas, pricing models, vehicle options, and rider promotion perks. Download at least two different apps to have flexibility.

Setting up accounts beforehand prevents hassles when arranging rides on the fly after you arrive. Choosing the app that is most widely used in the region you are visiting ensures more driver availability.

Keep Your Phone Charged

A fully charged phone is essential when relying on ride-sharing apps abroad. Bring a compact power bank that can quickly recharge your phone several times. A low battery means you temporarily lose access to your ride. Avoid getting stranded without a ride due to an uncharged phone.

Also, be sure to enable international roaming or get a local SIM card so you can use mobile data to access the apps. Staying connected is key.

Share the Ride

When traveling with family or friends, maximize savings by booking shared rides whenever possible. Uber and Grab can select a shared ride that matches you with others headed the same way. The total fare gets divided among all passengers.

Taking one shared car instead of two separate cars is cheaper per person and reduces congestion. Shared rides are a great option for airport transfers and longer trips.

Cash in on Promotions

Sign-up bonuses, free rides, and referral codes provide lucrative incentives when using a ride-sharing app in Taiwan. Compare new user promotions across apps and take advantage of the best deals. Using referral codes from blogger reviews is one way to unlock discounts.

Loyalty programs also give you points towards free rides the more you use the app. Cash in on these savings to stretch your travel budget further.

Be Clear on Pickup/Dropoff Spots

Input your pickup location when hailing a ride, providing landmarks, building names, and other details so drivers can pinpoint you. Also, check that your entered destination is correct before booking.

Providing accurate addresses upfront prevents wasted time from drivers searching for you or going to the wrong locations. Clear communication and details help ensure seamless door-to-door service.

Rate Fairly and Constructively

Drivers rely heavily on your ratings and reviews, so provide thoughtful feedback. Keep in mind language and cultural barriers before rating poorly for minor issues. But rate constructively when improvements could be made, like suggesting drivers use GPS if they get lost frequently. Clear communication and constructive feedback lead to better overall service.

Scooter & Bike Rental Apps

Experience the versatile means of local transportation by downloading “YouBike” – Taiwan’s largest bike-sharing platform, for your convenience.

YouBike is Taiwan’s public bicycle-sharing service, providing an alternative form of transportation for those visiting or living in major cities like Taipei, New Taipei City, Kaohsiung, and Taichung.

It uses an electronic managerial system to allow users to rent from one location and return bikes from another conveniently. With its low prices and convenience, YouBike has become an increasingly popular way to navigate the city.

Its environmental benefits also make it a preferred option among travelers – reducing carbon dioxide emissions by up to 13%. YouBike lets you explore anywhere within their designated areas quickly and easily!

Ride sharing apps in Taiwan can make exploring the country more convenient and enjoyable. From booking accommodations with Klook and Agoda to navigating transportation systems with Google Maps, Uber, Tripool, and Go! Travelers can rely on these apps to get around in Taipei Metro or T Express effortlessly.

Additionally, you can find scooter & bicycle rentals via YouBike for eco-friendly transportation, communication tools like LINE or Skype for easy conversations with local people, and food delivery services such as Uber Eats and FoodPanda when hungry.

With all of these ride-sharing apps available at your fingertips (and language translation), there’s no reason not to venture out into Taiwan confidently.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Now, let’s find out some things that people often ask about the best ride sharing apps in Taiwan.

1. What are some of the best ride-sharing apps available in Taiwan?

The most popular ride-sharing apps in Taiwan are Uber, Line Taxi, and YouBike.

2. How can I use each of these apps to get a taxi?

On Uber and YouBike, customers can easily request a taxi by entering their pickup location, destination, payment method, and other details into the app. With Line Taxi, users must go through a two-step booking process that involves choosing the desired pickup time or summoning an immediate cab from within the app.

3. Are all types of payments accepted on these apps?

Yes! All major payment methods such as credit card services , Apple Pay, and Google Pay are accepted across multiple ride-sharing platforms in Taiwan for convenient transactions.

4. How do I stay updated with promotions offered by these sites?

Each platform has its website where you can be informed about any discount offers they have going on currently or subscribe to receive regular promotional updates via newsletters or email notifications directly from them!

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Digital Nomads & House Sitters

The Best Apps for Travel in Asia 7 min read

This article may contain affiliate/compensated links. For full information, please see our disclaimer here.

These are the best apps for travel in Asia. Even better news, almost all of these apps are FREE.

These days there’s an app for just about everything! However, the apps you’re familiar with in your home country might not be the same as the ones you’ll need when you’re traveling in Asia.

In this article, we’ve included the most useful and popular apps that will help you navigate traveling around Asia, along with details about each app and how it can help you.

Most of these apps are available for both iOS/Android.

If you want more information about traveling within different countries around Asia, head to Asia Destinations .

Table of Contents

TRANSPORTATION APPS IN ASIA

• GRAB (ride-hailing)
• 12GO ASIA (buses, trains, ferries, etc.)
• Skyscanner (flights)

MAPS & DIRECTIONS APPS IN ASIA

• Google Maps (online and offline maps)
• Waze GPS (directions)

COMMUNICATION APPS IN ASIA

• WhatsApp (voice, call, text messaging)
• Line (voice, call, text messaging)

ACCOMMODATION APPS IN ASIA

• Agoda (hotel booking)
• Airbnb (apartments)
• HostelWorld (hostels)
• Trusted Housesitters (pet sitting and house sitting)- Get 25% OFF any Trusted Housesitters Membership plan

LANGUAGE APPS IN ASIA

• Google Translate (translate words and images)
• DuoLingo (language learning)

FOOD APPS IN ASIA

• Eatigo (discount restaurant bookings)
• HappyCow (find vegan and vegetarian restaurants)
• Food Panda (food delivery)
• Grab Food (food delivery)

Save this for later!

Check out the latest visa-related info for traveling in Asia .

More About Each App…

Grab is the most popular app in Asia for ride-sharing. It’s similar to Uber but with more options. Depending on which country you are in, you can call for a car, a tuk-tuk, or even a motorbike to pick you up. In addition to transportation , the company also offers food delivery as well as digital payment services, all via the app. Learn More.

12Go Asia is an online travel agency based in Singapore with its main office in Bangkok, Thailand. 12Go Asia allows users to search and book various modes of transportation on various routes throughout Asia and beyond.

12Go Asia makes it easy to book buses, trains, ferries, and more. Learn More.

Skyscanner lets people r esearch and book travel options for their trips, including flights , hotels , and car hire . It is available in over 30 languages and is used by 100 million people per month.

If your itinerary is flexible, try out Skyscanner’s ‘Everywhere’ option when searching for flights. When you put in ‘Everywhere’ as your destination, it will show you the lowest cost flights out of the airport of your choosing to anywhere in the world. Learn More.

MAPS & DIRECTIONS

Google maps.

Google Maps offers satellite imagery , street maps, 360° interactive panoramic views of streets , r eal-time traffic conditions , and route planning for traveling by foot, car, bike, air, and public transportation.

You can also download maps to use offline in case you don’t have access to the internet while you’re out exploring. Learn More.

Waze is a free navigation app . It offers community-based traffic info, which means other Waze users share about traffic, roadblocks, and more things on the road. That helps you to take the best route to your destination. If you plan on renting a motorbike or a car in Asia, Waze will be especially useful for you. Learn More.

WhatsApp is a messenger app widely used around Asia. WhatsApp is an internationally available American freeware with cross-platform centralized instant messaging and voice-over-IP service owned by Meta Platforms.

That means you can text or send voice messages that are all encrypted. You can also make video calls on WhatsApp.

Many people and businesses in Asia also use WhatsApp as their primary phone number, so it’s useful to have to make phone calls as well. Learn More.

Line is a popular communication app used in Asia. It allows you to make voice and video calls, and send messages. You can register on the app using either your phone number or Facebook log-in.

The app is especially popular in Japan, Taiwan, Thailand, and Indonesia. Interestingly, Line first started as a disaster response app during the 2011 Tohoku earthquake and tsunami. Learn More.

Agoda is a Singaporean online travel agency and metasearch engine for hotels , vacation rentals , flights , and airport transfers . Their app is a convenient way to book accommodation while you’re on the go. Learn More.

Airbnb is an American company that operates an online marketplace for lodging, primarily homestays for vacation rentals , and tourism activities .

The app is useful for making bookings and it allows you to stay in communication with your host in case anything goes wrong.

If you are a long-term traveler, try booking stays of 29 nights or more for a big discount! Learn More.

Check out our YouTube video about booking long-term Airbnbs .

Hostelworld

HostelWorld is a great app for finding hostels all around Asia . And don’t be fooled into thinking all hostels are grubby, cheap places to stay. In our experience, there are some very comfortable, beautiful hostels in Asia at various price points. There are even private rooms at most hostels, so you can get all the benefits of enjoying the common spaces and meeting fellow travelers while having your own space to go back to. Learn More.

Trusted Housesitters

Trusted Housesitters is a global marketplace that connects a community of home and pet owners with sitters . The company solves a common two-sided problem – pet care and cost-effective travel.

Pet owners have peace of mind leaving their pets and home in good hands while they travel. Pet sitters enjoy caring for pets in exchange for free accommodation.

We’ve used Trusted Housesitters to find pet sits all over the world, including in Asia! Learn More.

Watch our YouTube video about using Trusted Housesitters .

Google Translate

You can translate text , handwriting , photos , and speech in over 100 languages with the Google Translate app!

One of the most useful features of the app has got to be the camera feature. Click the camera icon in the app and hold it up to text. It will translate the text for you in real-time!

This is very useful for reading menus at restaurants, reading labels in grocery stores, or anytime you need to read something in the local language. The translations aren’t always perfect, which is also great for a laugh. Learn More.

Duolingo is a pretty fun language-learning app, and research shows that it works ! The app has quick, bite-sized lessons so you can practice on the go. There are many different Asian languages offered on Duolingo.

When you complete lessons, you can earn points and unlock new levels which incentivize you to keep learning.

You’ll also be gaining real-world communication skills that you can use as you travel. Learn More.

Eatigo is a restaurant reservation app in Asia that offers time-based discounts of up to 50% off , every day, at over 4500 restaurants.

The way it works is restaurants will offer discounts to diners who come at different times of the day, usually with bigger discounts for dining at off-peak times. The app is a fun way to discover new restaurants while saving money.

It’s easy to use: search, reserve, eat, save! Learn More.

Food Panda is a food delivery app where you can order from over 115,000 restaurants in over 400 cities around Asia. It’s very easy to use! Learn More.

Within the same Grab app that you use for transportation (listed above), you can also order food delivery ! It’s simple to use and works all over Asia. Learn More.

HappyCow is a great way to discover healthy food options when you travel in Asia, including restaurants catering to vegetarian and vegan diets. Learn More.

Do you need Travel Insurance for your trip? Get quotes from SafetyWing , Genki , and World Nomads .

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What apps in Asia did we miss? Anything else you would add to this list? Comment below!

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A 2024 Taiwan Travel Guide for Planning Your Trip

Last updated on Mar. 6, 2024 by Nick Kembel

Taiwan is a small island nation that packs a serious punch. At only 36,193 km², it is about the size of Vancouver Island in my native Canada, but home to a staggering 23.9 million people.

Do not be fooled by its compact size, however. There are many reasons to visit Taiwan : the tallest mountains in Northeast Asia, rich history & culture, welcoming locals, some of the best night markets and street food in the world – the list goes on. To get a better idea, see my ever-growing list of things to do in Taiwan .

I’ve lived in Taiwan for over 10 years. I’m married to a Taiwanese, and my two kids were born and raised in Taiwan. I’ve written articles about Taiwan for CNN, National Geographic Traveller, Discover Taipei, and Taiwan Travel Magazine, as well as my book, Taiwan in the Eyes of a Foreigner , which has sold more than 7000 copies.

This Taiwan travel guide links out to all of my most useful articles for planning a Taiwan trip. Here on my Taiwan travel blog, Spiritual Travels, you’ll find some of the most comprehensive Taiwan travel information Taiwan tourism details available in English online, all based on years of on-the-ground research. 

Let the below be your personal guide to traveling in Taiwan. I’ll be covering a wide variety of topics below, so use the table of contents to jump to the info you need! If you prefer Q&A format, you can find all the same info in these FAQs about Taiwan .

Table of Contents

Travel restrictions and visas.

As of October 13, 2022, Taiwan is totally open for travel. All COVID-related  travel restrictions  are finished.  That brought to an end the 938 days total that Taiwan’s borders were closed to some or all international tourists!

Currently, you just need to find out if your country is eligible for visa-free entry  (most are), and for how many days. If you need a visa for Taiwan, or want to stay for longer than the visa-free period, you’ll need to apply at the Taiwan office in your country before coming. 

Besides the visa, there are no special forms, tests, vaccines (these were never needed) for entering Taiwan. You just need to fill in the normal arrival card when you arrive, or do it online before you come. Note that some people have reported not receiving an email confirmation after filling in the online form, so you may want to just do it when you arrive in Taiwan. You can stay in any hotel or accommodation you want, including hostels (these weren’t allowed until March 20, 2023). 

The outdoor mask mandate ended in late 2022 and the indoor mask mandate ended in early 2023. Now, you only need to wear masks in medical facilities in Taiwan. However, many locals are still wearing them in public.

If you ever have any questions about anything related to traveling in Taiwan, you can call the 24-hour English tourist hotline at 0800-011765 (from outside Taiwan dial 886-800-011765). For COVID-specific questions, dial 1922 (from outside Taiwan dial 886-800-001922). 

A Guide to Taiwan’s Quarantine Hotels and COVID Travel Restrictions

Taiwan travel planning group.

The absolute best place you can go for any questions about planning your Taiwan trip is my free Facebook group, Taiwan Travel Planning .

Literally any question you have about traveling in Taiwan or planning your Taiwan trip will be answered within 1-2 days by me or other members of the group. I’m also happy to look over your itinerary and give you suggestions. Because I do spend a lot of time every day in the group answering questions, I’ve created this Buy Me a Coffee account for anyone who wants to say thanks (my readers requested this!)

Take a Tour or DIY Travel?

The main purpose of this page, my website, and my Facebook group is to help you plan a DIY trip to Taiwan. Taiwan is an incredibly safe and easy country to travel around. However, this does require some advance planning, especially as trains and hotels in popular destinations in Taiwan often sell out. Generally, Taiwan is not a very suitable country for just showing up and figuring it out once you get there. Even more so since COVID, advance bookings for almost everything are the norm. 

If you’re looking for a luxury, fully customized tour of Taiwan, I recommend Life of Taiwan . Their team of experts are some of the most knowledgeable in the industry. They provide personalized tea, food, cultural, or family tours of Taiwan and put you up in some of the country’s most exquisite hotels. If you contact them, please let them know that Nick sent you over!

If you’re in a rush and just want to see the best of Taiwan in a short period, I recommend this Taiwan 5-day tour . It doesn’t include Taipei, which is best visited in a day or two on your own before or after the tour.

What most visitors to Taiwan do, however, is plan their trip on their own. The country’s amazing TRA train (round-island) and High Speed Rail (down the west coast from Taipei ti Kaohsiung) systems are actually faster than driving. 

Then, when you get to your destination city, you can hire drivers for the day or go on guided day trips only when necessary. This is a very common approach, and there are numerous popular day trips and drivers available on Klook (sign up with this link for a TWD 100 credit in your account). You’ll find that I recommend Klook tours, drivers, car/scooter rentals, discounted attraction tickets, train tickets, and more throughout my Taiwan articles. There are many good deals on there, so you can save a lot of money by using the platform for planning your Taiwan trip.

And for truly DIY or budget travelers, you can certainly do it all on your own, especially with all the articles you’ll find on my website, covering how to visit almost every corner of Taiwan.

Renting a car is also a great option – read my tips for driving in Taiwan here and why I rented my car with Klook .

One good idea is to try one of these free Taipei waking tours on Day 1, then take it on your own from there!

Before Your Trip: Flights, Insurance, Apps, Guidebooks

If you’re coming from a country in Asia, there are numerous budget flights to Taiwan. I’ve prepared this list of the cheapest budget flights to Taiwan .

I’ve tried many different flight websites for finding long haul flights to Taiwan (I live in Canada). My two favorites are Kiwi.com and WayAway . I usually try both these sites when booking my Taiwan flights. They are often (but not alway) cheaper than booking directly with the airlines.

What I like about Kiwi.com is special features like searching not only your departure point but other cities nearby and being able to enter “anywhere” as a destination, and “anytime” as a flying time. For flexible travelers, this allows you to find the cheapest possible flights and dates without searching a million times. Unlike other aggregate flight sites, Kiwi includes budget airlines (many of which fly to Taipei!) and routes combining multiple airlines that are not affiliated.

WayAway is an even newer site and is now my favorite. Like Kiwi, it includes budget airlines, plus it displays awesome calendars showing the price of flights on every day. But the really special feature on WayAway, which will appeal to frequent travelers, is WayAway Plus. Basically, for a small annual fee, you can get cashback (like real cash, deposited to your account) not just for your flights but also any hotels you book through their system. Sign up with this link and you’ll get 10% off WayAway Plus !

Having said that, there are benefits to going with the airline directly, such as being able to easily contact them when needed. rather than going through a third party. China Airlines and Eva Airlines (the one with the Hello Kitty planes!) are two of Taiwan’s largest carriers.

For travel insurance , it’s pretty much a must nowadays. I recommend SafetyWing  or Insubuy . Find more details about why in my guide to choosing travel insurance for Taiwan .

Which apps should you download for Taiwan? I’ve got you covered in this guide to the best Taiwan apps for travelers.

Last but not least, I may be old school, but I still love using travel guidebooks for planning my Taiwan trips. My favorite is and always has been the Taiwan Lonely Planet (I have about 5 different issues of it). I also recommend the Bradt Taiwan , written by long-term Taiwan resident Steven Crook. He also co-authored this amazing book covering the history of Taiwanese food, which I highly recommend.

Moving to Taiwan?

If you’re planning on moving to Taiwan for work, family reasons, or simply because Taiwan is an awesome place to live, then you should head over to my novella-sized guide to living in Taiwan . 

In that article, I focus more on visa issues, getting a job in Taiwan, finding an apartment, making friends, and all other aspects of daily life in Taiwan, whereas below, I’ll stick mainly to things you need to know for traveling around Taiwan.

Taiwanese History & Culture

How much do you know about Taiwan? Having lived in Taiwan for many years and married a Taiwanese, I know for a fact that many people around the world know little to nothing about Taiwan. Even some of my friends and family members back home think it is the same as Thailand. For this reasons, I’ve even written this article to explain the differences between Taiwan and Thailand  as this one to share some fun and interesting facts about Taiwan .

Taiwan is a small island nation in East Asia. Culturally, it is usually considered part of Northeast Asia, but geographically, some argue that it is closer to Southeast Asia. Taiwan was the original homeland of the Austronesian people, who went on to populate many islands of the Pacific in canoes. Today, their descendants include the 16 recognized aboriginal tribes of Taiwan .

Taiwan was briefly colonized by the Dutch and Spanish, while the Portuguese famously called it “Formosa”, or “beautiful island”, a name which stuck for centuries. Over the last 500 years, millions of people have migrated to Taiwan from China, especially Fujian province in the southeast. That’s why the local language of Taiwan, “Taiwanese” , is also called Minnan; it is the same as the Chinese dialect spoken in the Minnan region of Fujian. Taiwan remained on the fringe of Chinese imperial influence for centuries, then fell to Japanese occupation from 1895 to 1945.

In the Chinese Civil War, the nationalist KMT party of the Republic of China lost to the Communist Party in 1949 and fled to Taiwan, along with millions of Chinese soldiers and refugees from all over China, bringing their language (Mandarin), food, and culture. They thought they’d take back China someday, but they never did. That’s why Taiwan is still officially (and confusingly) called Republic of China, but their passports now finally say “Taiwan” in bigger letters . In 2000, the DPP were the first non-KMT party to win an election in Taiwan. Current President Tsai Ing-wen belongs to the independence-leaning DPP party.

The relationship between Taiwan and China remains complex and is the source of much tension. China claims that Taiwan is a province of China and bullies Taiwan from entering the UN and WHO, and from using the word “Taiwan” in international events like the Olympics (they have to call their team “Chinese Taipei”. But most Taiwanese consider Taiwan independent, and anyone who has been to both countries knows just how different they are. Few countries officially recognize Taiwan, but it acts as an independent country in virtually every way.

Today Taiwan is a modern, vibrant democracy with a free press. It is known for its welcoming people, efficiency, safety, and incredible street food. It has been chosen as the top country in the world for expats . It was also the first country in Asia to legalize equal (gay) marriage rights. Last but not least, Taiwan was one of the success stories in its handling of the COVID pandemic. 

Should you tip in Taiwan? Most often the answer is no. Learn all about Taiwan’s money and currency here .

Thailand vs. Taiwan: What’s the Difference?

Taiwanese food.

One of the great pleasures of visiting Taiwan is enjoying the country’s incredible food. Indeed, may travelers from Asian country’s come to Taiwan JUST for the food. Taiwanese is especially known for its incredible variety of cheap and delicious street food .

The best place to try Taiwanese street food is in night markets. Every city in the country has a night market (here are the best night markets across Taiwan ), while Taipei has more than 50. Here I introduce the best night markets in Taipei , night markets in Taichung ,  night markets in Tainan , and night markets in Kaohsiung . Also don’t miss my favorite night market in the country, Keelung Night Market !

Besides street food, some restaurant experiences you may want to enjoy in Taiwan are DIY barbecue joints, all-you-can-eat hot pot, quick fry (a kind of local eatery suitable for groups, and with lots of cheap dishes meant for sharing, with lots of beer), and Din Tai Fung, the country’s most famous restaurant, which specializes in xiaolongbao (soup dumplings). In this article, I recommend 80+ of my favorite restaurants in Taipei , arranged by style, and the best restaurants open all night in Taipei here !

Seafood lovers should also visit Addiction Aquatic Development , an upscale gourmet seafood market in Taipei, or consider visiting one of the country’s many port markets.

For vegetarians and vegans, you’ll be happy to know you’ll be spoiled for choices in Taiwan. See the vegetarian section of my street foods article, or keep an eye out for the character for vegetarian 素 displayed on Buddhist vegetarian restaurants; many of them are buffet style and you pay by weight. You can also say “I am vegetarian” (wo chi su/我吃素), “Do you have anything vegetarian” (you sude ma?/有素的嗎？) or “Is this vegetarian” (zhe shi sude ma?/這是素的嗎？)

Besides all the articles before, I’ve got several newer  food and night markets guides here  on my other website, TaiwanObsessed.

The Top 9 Night Markets in Kaohsiung (& what to eat at each one!)

A Guide to Feasting at Fengchia Night Market in Taichung

Ximending Food Guide: What to Eat & Best Restaurants (2024 updated)

20 Best Night Markets in Taipei (+ What To Eat at Each One!)

The 80 Best Restaurants in Taipei (by food type!)

The “Big 5” Night Markets in Taichung (+ What to Eat at Each One!)

How to Binge Eat Your Way Through Keelung Night Market

What to Eat at Addiction Aquatic Development, Taipei’s Seafood Mecca

Anping Old Street (& other things to do in Anping, Tainan)

The “Big Five” Night Markets in Tainan & What to Eat at Each One

Shenkeng Old Street: A Food Tour of Taipei’s Stinky Tofu Village

Yongkang Street, Taipei for Foodies: Best Teahouses, Mango Ice, and More

Taiwan Street Food Bucket List: 101 Taiwanese Foods To Try

A Food Tour of Burma Street in Zhonghe, New Taipei City

When to visit taiwan.

Deciding on a season or month for your trip to Taiwan is the first step to planning your Taiwan travels, and thus the first topic to cover in this Taiwan traveling guide. To make things easier, I’ve written this dedicated guide to the best time to visit Taiwan . In it, you’ll find a description of every season and month of the year in Taiwan, and links to my 12 individual guides for visiting Taiwan in every month of the year. I update these articles constantly to add upcoming events and Taiwan travel news.

To summarize that article for you here, there’s no real “high” or “low” season for travel to Taiwan; each season of the year comes with some ups and downs. Summer is extremely hot and humid and comes with the chance of typhoons, but it’s also the best time for Taiwan’s beaches , outlying islands , and water-based activities.

Meanwhile, winter can be gray and chilly, but is the best time for hot springs and seeing cherry blossoms. Be careful if planning a trip around Chinese New Year , as many things will close (see my list of attractions and what days they close ), and it can be really difficult to travel around when half the country is on the road. Spring has warm weather but also a mini rain season, while autumn is my personal favorite for these reasons .

Below you’ll also find my individual guides to each season in Taiwan. But don’t fret too much about it; if you can only visit at a certain time of the year, there’s really no bad time to be in Taiwan!

The Best Time to Visit Taiwan: A Month-by-Month Guide

2024 Chinese New Year in Taiwan: Tips for Visiting & Things to Do

Summer in Taiwan: Everything You Need to Know

Winter in Taiwan (Xmas, NYE, LNY & Where to See Snow!)

Spring in Taiwan: Everything You Need to Know

Autumn in Taiwan: Everything You Need to Know

Best taiwan travel deal.

Who doesn’t want to find a good deal when traveling to Taiwan? Here are some of the websites and services I regularly use for planning my Taiwan travels:

• Klook : Get big discounts on everything from High Speed Rail & attraction tickets to restaurant vouchers and guided tours. Sign up with this link to get a free TWD100 credit !
• KKday : While Klook is a Hong Kong compared, KKday is the Taiwan version of it. Some activities are the same as Klook, while some are unique. I prefer Klook because KKday sometimes has poor English, but I still sometimes use KKday for things that Klook doesn’t have. 
• Booking : My preferred site for finding the best hotel deals in Taiwan.
• Agoda : Some users say they find cheaper prices on Agoda for Asian destinations, including Taiwan.
• Cookly : Find the best cooking courses in Taiwan.

These are some examples of great travel deals you can find on Klook:

Taiwan Travel Passes

One way to save money on travel around the world nowadays is by using city travel passes. Taiwan has a few available, but in order for them to actually save you money, you have to understand how they work, and get the right one for your needs.

Here are some travel passes in Taiwan that you may consider getting:

Taiwan Fun Passes

These 1 to 3-day passes include all transportation in and around Taipei, entrance fees to a long list of attractions, and some tourist shuttle buses for day trips out of Taipei. The most popular one is the Taipei Unlimited Fun Pass , which you can buy here .

Read my detailed review of all the Taipei Fun Passes to see how they work and determine if any of them will be worth it for your Taiwan trip. It only makes sense to get one if you plan to do a lot of sightseeing and MRT riding in Taipei in 1-3 days. Otherwise, I recommend just getting an EasyCard.

You’ll get a TWD 100 credit toward your Fun Pass if you sign up for Klook with this link first before booking!

I haven’t reviewed it yet, but there is a new Klook Taipei Pass . This one is for attractions only, but you have more time to use it, so it’s better for people who will have more time in the city.

Don’t confuse Taipei Fun Passes with the EasyCard , which is what everyone in Taipei uses to swipe onto the MRT and city buses. Read my detailed EasyCard guide for more info than I’ll provide here.

Taipei Fun Passes are designed for tourists, while the EasyCard is a reloadable card used by everyone else, including tourists who don’t get a Taipei Fun Pass. They cost TWD 100 (you can no longer get this deposit back), plus whatever money you load onto them. You can swipe them to ride the MRT in Taipei, Taichung, and Kaohsiung, all city buses in Taiwan, some ferries, and to pay for taxis, items in convenience stores, and more. 

You can get an EasyCard from any MRT station, including the Taoyuan Airport MRT station, and load money onto it.  You can also order an EasyCard for pickup when you arrive in Taiwan . 

Sun Moon Lake Passes

The other place you will find travel passes in Taiwan is at Sun Moon Lake , one of the country’s most popular attractions (we’ll get to those below). There are numerous Sun Moon Lake passes to choose from, and you can buy them from 7-Eleven iBon machines or from train stations in Taichung, the nearest major city.

Like the Taipei Fun Passes, these only save you money if you use them for enough avtivities. Most also include transportation to and from Taichung.

Learn all about the passes and how to use them in my Sun Moon Lake Pass review . Note that these pass prices and what they include are often changing.

Taipei Fun Pass: Is it Worth the Money?

Sun Moon Lake Pass: Is it Worth the Money? (updated 2024)

Best sim card and wifi device.

There’s no doubt that having an Internet connection while traveling in Taiwan is super convenient. You can check GoogleMaps to find the way, communicate with hotels, find bus times, etc. Nowadays, it’s pretty much essential. 

A SIM card is the best idea in my opinion, but some people also go for an eSIM like this or pocket Wifi device . I compare all three in my guides to SIMs for Taiwan and eSIMs for Taiwan . 

I recommend pre-ordering your SIM card for pickup when you arrive at Taoyuan International Airport. If you go with a WiFi device, then I recommend this one . Note the pick up times – if you arrive in the middle of the night, you may have to pick one up in the city.

You’ll get a TWD 100 credit toward your Taiwan SIM card or WiFi device if you  sign up for Klook with this link  first before booking it.

Another option that I have yet to fully understand myself is  eSIMs for Taiwan  – especially considering that the newest iPhones don’t even have SIM card slots anymore. If you are tech-savvy, check them out!

Taipei: The Tantalizing Capital of Taiwan

In some countries, you want to get out of the capital as soon as you arrive. This is not the case with Taipei . For most visitors to Taiwan, I recommend budgeting at least two full days for Taipei City alone, plus add 1-2 more days for day trips from Taipei (even more if you can!)

Taipei is always buzzing with activity; by day, you’ve got atmospheric historical neighborhoods to explore, towering Taipei 101, landmark Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Beitou Hot Springs, Maokong Gondola, Longshan Temple , and hikes in the hills (and volcanoes!) surrounding the city. After the sun goes down, it’s time to eat ’til you drop in the city’s famed night markets : the most famous ones are Shilin, Raohe, Ningxia, Tonghua, Nanjichang, and Huaxi Night Market .

As if that weren’t enough, Taipei is incredibly safe, and getting around is a breeze on the MRT, one of the best metro systems in the world.

Things to Do & Taipei Itineraries

Here is the most popular article on my website: 50+ awesome things to do in Taipei . For the less famous spots, see my off-the-beaten-track guide to Taipei . Below I’ve also linked to all my Taipei articles.

Besides the below articles, I’ve also got guides to spending one day in Taipei and how to plan a Taipei layover on my other website, TaiwanObsessed.

50 Unmissable Things to Do in Taipei in 2024

How to Spend 2 Awesome Days in Taipei

How to Spend 3 Awesome Days in Taipei

How to Spend 4 Awesome Days in Taipei

The above itineraries will make things easier for those will little time for planning. But my recommendations for Taipei don’t stop there.

For people who want to dig a little deeper and further customize the Taipei portion of their Taiwan trip, here some useful resources that further explore how much Taipei has to offer, including its best temples , night markets , hikes , and beaches .

Also see the my post below for the best times of the year to visit Taipei; the weather of Taipei is quite different to that of other parts of Taiwan, so if your trip to Taiwan is mainly focused on Taipei, you’ll find this article more useful than my “Best time to visit Taiwan” article I linked to above.

The Best Time to Visit Taipei City: An Insider’s Guide

Hiking in Taipei: My 21 Favorite Taipei Hikes

The Best Cat Cafes in Taipei, the Birthplace of Cat Cafe Culture

30 Jaw-Dropping Temples in Taipei and New Taipei City

7 Beaches around Taipei You Can’t Miss

Coolest neighborhoods & where to stay.

Deciding where to stay in Taipei can be rather intimidating, as there are so many cool neighborhoods to choose from.

Let me make life easier for you by breaking it down to the best neighborhoods to stay in Taipei , with my hotel recommendations for each one. For each area of Taipei, I’ve included hotel recommendations for budget, mid-range, and luxury travelers, also pointing out which ones are suitable for travelers with kids. I’ve also got specific guides to the best hostels and luxury hotels in Taipei.

Besides my “where to stay in Taipei” article below, I’ve got detailed guides to some of my personal favorite neighborhoods in Taipei: Beitou for hot springs, historic Dadaocheng , and funky, gay-friendly Ximending . Start planning your walking tours with these guides!

If you have a very early or late flight, here are my recommended hotels in and around Taoyuan Airport .

Where to Stay in Taipei in 2024 (by area & budget)

The Ultimate Beitou Hot Spring Guide (2024 info!)

A Guide to Dihua Street in Dadaocheng, Taipei’s Oldest Street

30 Fun (& WEIRD) Things to Do in Ximending, Taipei

Day trips from taipei.

When deciding how long to stay in Taipei, you have to factor in that there some really incredible day trips from the city!

I normally recommend that, if you can, dedicate two full days to exploring Taipei, then another one or two days for day trips. If you only have one day in your Taiwan travel plan to do a day trip from Taipei, I would suggest that you plan it carefully. This way, you’ll be able to squeeze in several of my recommended 40 day trip ideas into one day.

The following five stops are some of the most popular day trips from Taipei, and since they are all fairly close together, you can combine them into one killer day trip from Taipei. There are even some shuttle buses deals like this that can make this even easier to accomplish.

• Jiufen : A former gold mining town on top of a mountain, famous for its atmospheric staircases and teahouses
• Shifen Waterfall : The widest in Taiwan, accessed from a cute train station where people set off sky lanterns
• Houtong : The “Cat Village”, literally a village full of cats
• Keelung : A harbor city with the best night market in Taiwan, forts, beach, and more
• Yehliu Geopark : Odd, wind-blown rock formations on the coast
• Tamsui : A popular riverside promenade with unique foods, beaches, and picturesque colonial forts

If you don’t want to drive or figure out public transportation, there’s an awesome English service called Parkbus Taiwan , which takes guests on day trips from the city for hiking and other activities. Use my discount code “ Spiritual10 ” at checkout to get 10% (may not be available for some events). 

There are practically unlimited day trip possibilities from Taipei. This is why myself and so many other expats love living in Taipei; you get the excitement of the city, but you can go somewhere different every weekend. Because Taiwan is so small, and thanks to its amazing transportation system and the High Speed Rail, you can go almost anywhere in Taiwan in a day or weekend trip. 

20+ Fun Things to Do in Keelung, Northern Taiwan’s Port City

40 Day Trips from Taipei You Can’t Miss

Getting from Taipei to Jiufen and Shifen (with pictures and times)

Jiufen Old Street: A 2024 Guide to this Classic Taipei Day Trip

Tamsui, Taiwan: Fishermen’s Wharf, Old Street, & other Things to Do

Wulai Hot Spring & Old Street: A 2024 Guide

Planning your trip around taiwan.

One of the hardest parts of planning a Taiwan trip is mapping out the perfect Taiwan travel itinerary .

What a lot of people do is book their trip first, and then realize they didn’t budget enough time for everything they want to see. Moreover, some of the best things to do in Taiwan are on opposite coasts, with 3000-meter mountains between them!

For example, many people only schedule around one week for their Taiwan trip. Then they decide they want to visit Taipei, Taroko Gorge on the east coast, and Sun Moon Lake and/or Alishan , which are in Central Taiwan but accessed from the west coast. On the map, these three top scenic attractions in Taiwan look fairly close together. But guess what? There are no buses that cross the Central Mountain Range of Taiwan. You can do it in a car, but the road is super winding and takes a long time.

So what I see a lot of visitors doing is going from Taipei to Taroko Gorge first (2.5 to 4 hours on the train, one way). Then they have to return to Taipei, and then travel a similar amount of time down the west coast to reach Sun Moon Lake and/or Alishan. It’s certainly possible, but it means you have to use up an entire day of your trip on the road.

How can you resolve this common Taiwan travel dilemma? I feel the answer is in planning your trip better before you book it, so that you can budget enough days to travel all the way around Taiwan and see everything that you want to without rushing. Which leads to the next important question: 

How Long Do I Need to Visit Taiwan?

With a week or less, you will probably only have time to visit Taipei, including some day trips, and perhaps do a 1 or 2-night trip to Taroko Gorge on the East Coast, or Taichung, Sun Moon Lake, and/or Alishan in Central Taiwan (and this would be really rushed).

If you want to do a full circle around Taiwan, these are the most obvious destinations along the way, going in a clockwise direction around Taiwan by riding the train: Taipei, Hualien (Taroko Gorge), Taitung, Kaohsiung, Tainan, Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, Taichung, and back to Taipei.

To do this, you are going to need two weeks or more . With exactly two weeks, you may even have to cut out one or two of the above stops, otherwise you’ll just be checking in and out of hotels every day or two.

With even more time, you can be less rushed, and potentially add more stops, such as the beaches of Kenting on the southern tip of the island (as a side trip from Kaohsiung), Lukang, spend more time in laid-back Taitung, or visit some of the offshore islands, like Green Island, Orchid Island, or Penghu. This is why I think 3 weeks is a great amount of time for visiting Taiwan, and if you can go even longer, all the better!

Taiwan Travel Itineraries

Here are my recommend itineraries for traveling around Taiwan.

The five-day itinerary is for a very short visit, while the second article provides Taiwan itineraries for 1, 2, or 3 weeks. These are tried-and-tested itineraries that I have done in some form or another several times, including with my kids (see more on that below)!

The itineraries for 2 weeks and up involve doing a full circle around Taiwan mostly by train, with a few buses as well. See the end of this article for more information on transportation options for getting around Taiwan.

A Taiwan Itinerary for 1, 2, or 3 weeks (Slow & Fast Options!)

A Simple Taipei & Taiwan 5 Day Itinerary

Visiting taiwan with kids.

My kids Sage and Lavender were born and spent the first handful of years of their life in Taiwan. They’ve seen more of the country than most visitors ever will!

Below are my super detailed guides to visiting Taipei with kids and how to plan a complete circle around Taiwan with kids . The latter article is very similar to my above Taiwan itinerary for 1-3 weeks, but with tweaks along the way to focus on sights that my kids loved the most, as well as recommendations for kid-friendly hotels in each stop along the way.

You may also be interested in the best amusement parks in Taiwan , where to see capybaras in Taiwan , and my guide to Yilan, the “kid-friendly county” .

Taiwan with Kids: How to Plan a Round-Island Trip

Taipei with Kids in 2024: Ideas from a Local Family

Best attractions around taiwan.

When trying to decide which destinations in Taiwan to include on your itinerary, it will be useful to take a deeper look at each of them to decide which ones are for you.

I’ll start with a list of some of the top scenic attractions. These five are the most common stops that people include on their Taiwan itineraries. I’ll follow that up with the best cities in Taiwan besides Taipei, best hot springs in Taiwan, best off-the-beaten track places to visit, and finally the  offshore islands of Taiwan . Again, these are described in clockwise order going around Taiwan.

Top Scenic Attractions in Taiwan

• Taroko Gorge : dramatic canyon in beautiful Hualien County
• Taitung : Laid-back, rural corner of Taiwan, including the famous Brown Boulevard Cycling Path
• Kenting : Beaches on the southern tip of Taiwan
• Alishan : Mountain resort in Nantou famous for huge trees, high mountain tea, and sunrises above seas of clouds
• Cingjing (Qingjing) Farm : A high mountain farm and resort village that looks like a slice of Europe in Taiwan
• Hehuanshan : The best place to see snow in Taiwan (usually possible in January to March)
• Yushan : Tallest mountain in Taiwan and Northeast Asia, requires permits and planning to climb
• Sun Moon Lake : Beautiful lake surrounded by mountains

Here are my extremely detailed guides to the ones that almost all visitors try to include on their Taiwan travel itinerary:

A 2024 Guide to Taroko Gorge and Taroko National Park

Sun Moon Lake, Taiwan: A 2024 Visitors’ Guide

A Guide to Chishang, Taitung and Cycling Brown Boulevard

Alishan, Taiwan: A Super Detailed 2024 Guide

40 Unmissable Things to Do in Hualien, Taiwan

30 Incredible Things to Do in Taitung, Southeastern Taiwan

Best cities in taiwan.

Besides Taipei, which is a given, city lovers are going to find there are a few other cities they may want to include on their Taiwan travel itinerary. You can see my above-linked Taiwan travel itineraries to see how to fit these cities into your schedule.

Since there is one only train line around Taiwan, you’ll have to pass through all of them anyway if doing a full circuit around Taiwan. Since most cities in Taiwan are located on the developed west coast, the below are in counter-clockwise order. The varying time to reach them depends on whether you take the regular train/bus or the much faster High Speed Rail.

• New Taipei City : Taiwan’s largest city literally surrounds Taipei and is home to many of the most popular day trips from Taipei .
• Taoyuan : Best known for the international airport, consider stopping here to visit the impressive Xpark Aquarium on the way to/from the airport.
• Taichung : 1 – 2 hours south of Taipei on the west coast and the largest city in central Taiwan. Known for its artistic attractions like Rainbow Village , Gaomei Wetland , and as the birthplace of pearl milk tea.
• Lukang : 2-3 hours south of Taipei. Historic city famous for its traditional culture, food, and Old Street, and home to one of the most important temples in the country.
• Tainan : 1.75 – 5 hours south of Taipei on the west coast of southern Taiwan. Former capital of Taiwan famous for its temples , night markets , and considered by locals as the food capital of Taiwan.
• Kaohsiung : 2 – 6 hours south of Taipei in the southwest of Taiwan and end of the High Speed Rail line. Port city known for its revitalized harbor front, night markets , street art and Pier 2 Art Center , and the largest Buddhist monastery in Taiwan, Foguangshan .
• Hualien : 2.5 – 4 hours from Taipei, only major city on the wild, scenic east coast of Taiwan. Mostly people stay in the city to visit nearby Taroko Gorge, but the city has a good night market and opportunities to experience Taiwanese aboriginal culture, such as this aboriginal cooking course .
• Taitung : 3.5 – 6 hours from Taipei, small city known for its aboriginal culture and end-point of most road trips down the east coast of Taiwan

20 Awe-Inspiring Temples in Tainan, Taiwan

Lukang Old Street (& other Things to Do in Lukang, Taiwan)

Gaomei Wetlands in Taichung: A Detailed Visitor’s Guide

25 Unique Things to Do in Taichung, Taiwan

A Detailed Hualien Itinerary for 1-4 Days

Fo Guang Shan, Kaohsiung: How to Visit and Stay at Taiwan’s Biggest Monastery

70 Things to Do in Tainan, Taiwan’s Ancient Capital

Our Visit to Rainbow Village Taichung (before it was destroyed)

50 Things to Do in Kaohsiung in Southern Taiwan

A Guide to Pier 2 Art Center in Kaohsiung City’s Harbor

Best hot springs in taiwan.

I happen to be a hot spring lover. Because Taiwan sits on the meeting point of two major tectonic plates, the island is geologically active, with dormant volcanoes and over 100 major hot springs! The most famous is surely Beitou Hot Spring in Taipei , while Wulai , Jiaoxi , and Jinshan can be visited as day trips from Taipei.

Here is my detailed guide to the 20 best hot springs in Taiwan , including information on hot spring etiquette.

The 20 Best Hot Springs in Taiwan for a Blissful Winter Soak

Jiaoxi Hot Spring: A Guide to My Favorite Spa Village in Taiwan

Lovely Tai’an Hot Spring in Miaoli, Taiwan

Wenshan Hot Spring: Taroko Gorge’s Spectacular Secret

Off-the-beaten-track places to visit in taiwan.

Just to make things more difficult for you, besides the many must-see places to visit in Taiwan I mentioned above, which already require at least two weeks to visit, there are loads of off-the-beaten-path destinations that are just as worthwhile.

Serious off-the-beaten track travelers should head to my other site, where I’ve got guides to relatively unexplored cities and counties like Taoyuan , Hsinchu , Yilan , Miaoli , Changhua , Yunlin , and Pingtung . I’ve also got this guide to  off-the-beaten-track things to do in Taipei .

The below are articles cover some of the more remote or less visited (by foreign tourists) places in Taiwan. These are just the tip of the iceberg, but they are some of my personal favorites.

Depending on what kind of traveler you are, these may appeal to you more than the “must see” attractions I covered above!

The Stunning East Coast of Taiwan Part 1: Yilan to Hualien and Taroko Gorge

Is Sicao Green Tunnel in Tainan Worth the Trip?

Strawberry Picking at a Strawberry Farm in Dahu, Taiwan

The Stunning Qigu Salt Mountain and Jingzijiao Wapan Salt Fields in Tainan

50+ Fun Things to Do in Yilan, Taiwan (2024 Updated!)

Quirky Xitou Monster Village in Nantou, Taiwan

A Guide to Luye & the Taitung Hot Air Balloon Festival 2024

A Guide to Dulan, Taitung: Taiwan’s Coolest Beach Hangout

The Stunning East Coast of Taiwan Part 2: Hualien to Taitung and Kenting

Anping Tree House: How to Visit this Must-See Tainan Attraction

The offshore islands of taiwan.

Yet another list of places you’ll want to visit during your Taiwan travels is the offshore islands. However, a visit to any of the offshore islands is like a trip within a Taiwan trip; visiting most of them involves a little more planning and time. 

There are about half a dozen main ones to choose from. Also, the offshore islands are best visited in spring, summer (high season due to domestic tourists, but can be very hot), and early fall. In winter, they become very windy (especially Penghu) and/or many traveler’s services totally shut down (especially Orchid Island ).

The first four below are most commonly reached by ferry, with Xiao Liuqiu being the closest to the Taiwan mainland. Orchid Island also has the option of flights in very small airplanes from Taitung, while Penghu has regular flights from Taipei and other cities in Taiwan. Kinmen and Matsu are much closer to China than Taiwan (they are so close to it that you can see China from their shores), so they require flights.

Here are the small islands of Taiwan that you may want to visit someday.

• Green Island : Off Taitung’s coast, best for scenery and snorkeling or scuba diving, and a saltwater hot spring.
• Orchid Island : Harder to reach/plan, and home to Taiwan’s most remote aboriginal tribe.
• Xiao Liuqiu : Snorkeling with sea turtles, and easily done as a day trip from Kaohsiung. 
• Cijin : A long, skinny island protecting Kaohsiung’s huge harbor.
• Penghu : Best for beaches, sailing, island hopping and a fireworks festival.
• Kinmen : Much closer to China than Taiwan, known for military history and Kaohliang, a strong liquor.
• Matsu : Also very close to China, known for its tunnels and forts.

How to Visit Cijin Island in Kaohsiung City’s Port

A 2024 Guide to Xiaoliuqiu Island, a Turtle Spotting Hot Spot

A 2024 Guide to Penghu Islands, Taiwan’s Offshore Paradise

Orchid Island, Taiwan: A Detailed 2024 Guide

Transportation: how to get around taiwan.

Taiwan has an amazing transportation system, and getting around the country is a breeze thanks to its extremely reliable metros, buses, and railway systems.

It is still important to understand some things about getting around Taiwan, though, in order to avoid disruptions on your trip (like finding out all the trains to your next stop are sold out!)

If you follow my Taiwan itineraries, you’ll mostly be taking trains around Taiwan, with some exceptions. Getting to Alishan is more complicated, as it can involve a train, bus, or combination of the two. Sun Moon Lake and Kenting are also only accessed by bus. Luckily, you don’t need to book any of these bus rides in advance.

See here if you’d like to find a private driver in Taiwan .

Getting Around Taipei

Upon arriving at Taoyuan International Airport, you can takes a bus (TWD135, 1 hour), the new Airport MRT (TWD 165, 35-50 min), or a taxi (TWD1000-1500, 45 min to 1 hr) to Taipei.

I recommended  pre-booking a private transfer to your hotel , which is usually a little cheaper than taking a taxi. Also see my more detailed guide to getting from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei . If your flight is very early or late, stay in one of these airport hotels .

The MRT is the lifeline and pride of Taipei. It is considered one of the best metro systems in the world. You’ll love it, and use it to get almost everywhere you go in Taipei.

In order to ride the MRT, it’s best to get an EasyCard from any station (or order it before your trip ) and load some money onto it. This makes it easy to swipe in & out. You have to pay a TWD non-refundable deposit plus however much you want to load onto the card.

The EasyCard also works for buses and taxis in Taipei, ferries in Tamsui, and local buses in cities across the country. It can also be used on the Taichung and Kaohsiung MRT, and regular/local train tickets between cities that don’t require seat reservations. Note that for most long distance buses or trains, you won’t be able to use it.

Taxis are also cheap and plentiful in Taipei. Taipei has Uber, too, but it often isn’t any cheaper than taxis. Taxi drivers speak varying levels of English, and some not at all, so it’s a good idea to have your destination written in Mandarin when taking local taxis. Taxi drivers in Taiwan are honest and won’t try to scam you or rip you off.

Taking the Regular Train (TRA) around Taiwan

The regular (TRA) train does a full circle around Taiwan. Tickets can be booked online  up to exactly 28 days in advance (or 29 days for Saturday trips and 30 days for Sunday trips). See details and screenshots for how to book train tickets online or on the app .

Trains sell out in Taiwan very often, especially on weekends and holidays. Sometimes they even sell out minutes after they go on sale, such as for long weekends, or for very popular rides (like the express train from Taipei to Hualien/Taroko Gorge).

For this reason, it’s very important to book your tickets in advance. Note that 28 days in advance means the tickets go on sale at precisely 12:00 a.m. (midnight). For example, if you want to travel on September 28, you should try to book your ticket at 12:00 a.m. on September 1, which is actually the night of August 31, Taiwan time of course.

If your train sells out, don’t freak out. You can always buy standing tickets on most trains. A lot of people do this, and just stand in the aisle or sit on the floor between train cars (see which ones below). It’s not comfortable for a long ride, but at least you’ll get there. Another option is to try a different time, or take a bus (but beware that there are very few buses running down the east coast).

Note that you are allowed to eat and drink on trains in Taiwan, and they all have toilets on board. You can even discreetly drink a beer on Taiwan trains, although most train station 7-Elevens no longer sell them. But be warned that Taiwanese people tend to be very quiet (and often sleep) on buses and trains, and they don’t appreciate noisy passengers. To be respectful, keep talking to a whisper, or just don’t talk at all. I can’t say how many times we have been “shhed” just for having a conversation at a reasonable volume on buses or trains in Taiwan.

There are different types of TRA trains in Taiwan, and it’s useful to know the names of them when searching for train times. Here they are:

• Local Train (區間車): Slowest, stops at every small stop, cheapest, least comfortable, and you can sit or stand anywhere. Buy ticket at station or swipe with EasyCard.
• Chu Kuang Express (莒光號): Regular trains that circle around Taiwan. Reserved seats, but you can always buy standing tickets from the train station ticket window.
• Tze-Chiang (Express / 自強號 ): Same as the above, but faster and fewer stops. Standing tickets also possible.
• Taroko / Puyuma Express (太魯閣號): Super express train from Taipei to Taroko Gorge/Hualien. Reserved seats only, and always sells out very quickly.
• Tze Chiang Lmt. Express 3000 ( 自強EMU3000 ): A new express train that is also reserved seats only.

The High Speed Rail (HSR)

Taiwan has a Japanese-made high speed rail (HSR) sytem. The single line has 12 stops along the highly developed west coast of Taiwan, from Taipei city in the north to Kaohsiung city (called Zuoying Station) in the south. 

The first station in Taipei is Nangang, while Taipei Main Station is the most useful, and connects to the Taipei City MRT, regular (TRA) trains, and Airport MRT. Banqiao is located in New Taipei City (the large city that surrounds Taipei City), and Taoyuan is close to the Taoyuan International Airport. To get to Taoyuan HSR station from the airport, you have to ride the Airport MRT a few stops in the opposite direction from Taipei.

Generally speaking, HSR tickets costs about twice as much as the regular train, but get you there twice as fast.

It’s important to note, however, that in most cities, the HSR station is located outside of the city center, just like airports tend to be, so you have to factor in time (and money) to get to the city center once you arrive. This is the case for every stop except for Taipei.

In some cases, though, the location of the HSR station can be more useful. For example, in Taichung, the HSR station is closer to Rainbow Village, and has direct buses to Sun Moon Lake. Similarly, in Chiayi, you can catch a bus directly from the HSR station to Alishan, and thus avoid going into Chiayi City. In Kaohsiung, the HSR station is right beside Lotus Lake, one of the city’s top attractions. To get to the Kaohsiung City center, you just have to hop onto the KMRT.

You can buy HSR tickets online up to 28 days in advance, and buying them early usually gets you an early bird price. 

You can also buy discounted HSR tickets on Klook  – buying them here allows you to get the early bird discount even when you’ve missed it on the official site. Note that if you buy your tickets on Klook, you have to follow the instructions provided to actually book your seat after you receive the voucher. You can do this online or in person at the station. You’ll need to show your passport. Note that this Klook deal is for short term tourists only; residents/ARC-holders aren’t supposed to buy them.

Unlike TRA trains, the HSR has three cars (#10-12) of unreserved seats. This means you can show up at an HSR station anytime and buy an unreserved ticket at full price from one of the machines. These never sell out.

You aren’t guaranteed a seat, but you can almost always get one. The only time every train really fills up completely is Lunar New Year and on long weekends, and even then, we’ve always managed to get on without waiting too long.

Special Trains in Taiwan

Besides MRTs (city metros), TRA trains, and the HSR, there are a few special small-gauge train lines in Taiwan. Mostly these are restored old trains that run along former logging lines, built by the Japanese when they were logging during their colonial rule of Taiwan. They tend to be fun and highly scenic rides for tourists.

Here are some of these special small train lines that you may encounter or seek out on your trip:

• Pingxi Line : this small train line provides access to some of the most popular day trips from Taipei, including Houtong, Shifen, and Pingxi. Most people board it at Ruifang, which has direct connections to Taipei by bus or TRA train.
• Alishan Forest Railway : This is the most interesting way to get from the city of Chiayi to the mountain resort of Alishan. However, the final section was destroyed in a typhoon, so you have to take a bus for the final leg. There are also parts of the train line running to scenic spots within Alishan National Scenic Area. You can find all the relevant information in my guide to getting to Alishan .
• Neiwan, Jiji, and Bong Bong Lines : These are three more scenic small train lines that far few foreign tourists ever make it to. They are in Hsinchu, Changhua, and Yilan (on top of Taipingshan Mountain), respectively. 

Final Thoughts on Planning a Taiwan Trip

Well, I hope you’ve found more than enough information in my Taiwan travel blog for planning your trip. Taiwan remains largely closed to international visitors for the time being, but hopefully big changes are on the horizon.

Please feel free to check back again, as I’m constantly updating my Taiwan travel content to reflect the current situation. And if you’ve got any questions, please join my Taiwan Travel Planning group and I’ll answer them there!

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I Grew Up Visiting Taiwan — but Only Recently Explored Its Mountains, Beaches, and National Parks

Beyond the city limits of ultramodern Taipei lies a wild and majestic landscape. Here's how to plan an adventurous trip through Taiwan.

Sean Marc Lee

A mountain embodies a certain notion of the absolute: the enormity of natural terrain and the deep time it took to shape it, condensed into one hulking totality. But as I climbed what felt like my millionth flight of stairs toward the peak of Qixing Mountain, in Taiwan’s Yangmingshan National Park, I was reminded that a mountain can also be relative. I had climbed many mountains above the 10,000-foot mark in my home state of Colorado , but had never been so intimidated as I was by this 3,675-footer. Technically a dormant volcano, it seemed to rise straight up from sea level, stretching toward the constellation that gave it its name: Qixing means “Seven Stars,” the Chinese name for the Big Dipper.

Here on the path to the summit, as I hiked alongside my husband, Alex, thickets of tall tufted grass were busy with small, bright birds and the occasional plump, clumsy one scratching at the leafy floor in search of insects. Our guide, Vincent Hsu, a nature photographer with a passion for long backpacking trips, said that this was a “bumble chicken,” more formally known as a Taiwan partridge. We had already passed through a slideshow of strikingly varied terrain: billowing fumaroles from which sulphurous steam spilled into the sky like in some Venusian desert; serene lily ponds that emitted a thick curtain of frog song. But nothing had prepared us for the sheer verticality of this landscape. Alex observed that the stone steps seemed to extend straight into the clouds at a 90-degree angle, almost as if this were not a real place but some extremely convincing trompe l’oeil painting.

Taiwan, an island roughly the size of the Netherlands with a population comparable to that of Australia, is less known for natural settings than for its modern exports: bubble tea studded with chewy balls of tapioca and the high-powered microchips that power every new iPad, iPhone, and MacBook. My Taiwanese mother emigrated to the United States shortly before my birth, and I grew up visiting Taipei every few years. On these trips, we ate meals with family friends and wandered the city’s numerous night markets, where vendors hawked everything from fried squid to linen pants. My experience of Taiwan was almost entirely bounded by the circumference of the city, where a visitor can zip from a mind-blowing noodle soup eaten on a flimsy plastic stool to a state-of-the-art karaoke lounge.

But for all its civilized comforts, Taiwan is also a place with a surprising array of habitats — from frigid mountaintops to lush subtropical and tropical forests — all accessible by high-speed rail or the occasional hour-long stint on a plane. Its 23 million inhabitants live mostly in efficient urban clusters, partly because of the steep, landslide-prone topography, and venture out to the periphery for day trips or weekend getaways. As Hsu told us, it’s commonly said that to  truly  be Taiwanese, you have to complete three tasks: climb Jade Mountain, the highest peak on the island at nearly 13,000 feet; swim the nearly 10-mile length of Sun Moon Lake; and bicycle the island’s 621-mile circumference. Hsu had recently checked off all three.

Taiwan, an island roughly the size of the Netherlands with a population comparable to that of Australia, is less known for natural settings than for its modern exports: bubble tea studded with chewy balls of tapioca and the high-powered microchips that power every new iPad, iPhone, and MacBook. But for all its civilized comforts, Taiwan is also a place with a surprising array of habitats— from frigid mountaintops to lush subtropical and tropical forests.

As we climbed, he explained that these slopes were the consequence of Taiwan’s relative “newness” as an island. The land we stood on was formed just 4 to 5 million years ago, from vigorous volcanic activity at the intersection of two tectonic plates that forced the earth upward into the shapes that surrounded us. The process created a network of hot springs all over the island, where today people go to dissolve their stress in geothermal heat. I could see that the ridges of the mountain range had a sharpness to them: they had not been softened by erosion. The green walls were thick with moss, flowers, and ferns. “Has anyone ever fallen off the mountain?” I asked Hsu as I looked behind us. He smiled encouragingly, told us that even the elderly climb this peak with no trouble, and offered us some water from his pack.

The ascent was daunting, but at the top we were rewarded by a view of the Tamsui River, shining silver as it threaded its way through Taipei, and by a cool breeze that made the grasses around us rustle. Clouds pooled around the mountaintops, making it look as though they were islands in an ocean of soft white; this was called “cloud sea,” Hsu told us. Through the slight veil of cloud cover, the landscape had a minimalist elegance, like a poem or an ink painting. And as we headed down, the way back as easy as the way up was strenuous, I marveled at how it was possible for this lush and rugged place to exist only 40 minutes from the center of the city.

To be fair, there’s plenty that’s wild and green even in the heart of Taipei, a much-Instagrammed city of 2.6 million that nevertheless evokes a sense of intimacy with its peaceful side streets, community gardens, and cozy coffee shops. Just steps from the din of mopeds and high-fashion shopping areas, I found myself wandering among artisanal teahouses and shops selling handcrafted furniture, watching egrets fish from picturesque canals, and feeling as though I had stepped back in time. The streets are lined with banyan trees shaggy with aerial roots that drape all the way to the ground, and flowers and vines overflow from rainspouts and planters, flourishing in the island’s subtropical climate.

Related: Taiwan Introduces Plan to Attract Tourists — by Paying Them

The day before the hike, Hsu had taken me to the top of Taipei 101, the 101-story tower that serves as a centerpiece of the city as well as the home of its most upscale stores. As we took in the panoramic views from the observation deck, he pointed out the different peaks and waterways that define the cityscape. “The city runs like a river between the mountains,” he explained.

We took the high-speed elevator back down to the ground floor, where we stopped for lunch at the flagship of Din Tai Fung , a world-famous chain specializing in  xiaolongbao,  soup dumplings traditionally filled with broth and juicy pork. A delicate purse of dough with 18 intricate folds — the restaurant’s signature — each one looked a little like some fabulous flower sitting in the trough of a porcelain spoon. Afterward, we headed to the historic shopping area of Dadaocheng for ripe strawberries hand-wrapped in red bean paste and soft, fresh mochi from a street-side stand, which we ate while strolling past old-fashioned shops selling dried fruit, herbal medicine, and oolong tea. We ended up on the banks of the Tamsui River, alongside stalls selling Junmai sake and bubble waffles, watching Taiwan blue magpies with long, parrot-like tails dart between the trees.

After our exhausting hike up Qixing, all I could manage at dinnertime was a siesta on the lushly landscaped roof garden of the Mandarin Oriental, Taipei — an impeccably appointed hotel that makes a strong argument for service in Asia being the best in the world. (While Alex and I were out, a bookmark appeared in the open paperback I had left on the nightstand.) As dusk began to fall, I emerged from the Murano-glass-tiled pool and an attendant immediately handed me a towel and a cup of warm ginger tea, which I sipped beneath the cover of tropical plants and palm trees, very tired and very full.

As it turned out, eating outdoors may well be Taiwan’s national pastime: the following day, Alex and I went to the mountain town of Jiufen, which looks to many people like the inspiration for Hayao Miyazaki’s classic animated film  Spirited Away . On a twisty old street lined with red paper lanterns, we devoured sweet taro and mung bean soup, palm-size “wheelcakes” cooked in a metal mold and filled with silky vanilla custard, and a sort of rice-paper burrito filled with taro ice cream, crushed peanut brittle, and cilantro that was shockingly delicious. We spent the night at the Gaia Hotel in Beitou, the hot-springs district of Taipei, where we steeped our tired muscles in the mineral baths amid the nighttime sounds of a picturesque garden.

The first Western sighting of Taiwan was in 1544, when Portuguese sailors on their way to Japan named it Ilha Formosa — “beautiful island.” The Spanish arrived in the 17th century, followed by the Dutch, who operated a branch of the East India Company on the island’s western flank until they were forced out by the Ming general Koxinga and by the Indigenous Wu-lao-wan tribe, which defended its territory fiercely. Subsequent waves of migration — the largely Fujianese Chinese who came during the Qing dynasty in the 18th and 19th centuries, the Japanese colonists who occupied the land from the beginning of the 20th century until the end of World War II, the nationalist Chinese who fled Mao Zedong’s regime and renamed the island the Republic of China — have given Taiwan a multifaceted culture that reflects its complex history.

The Taiwan that would-be colonizers encountered was often described as an impassable wilderness, inhabited by Indigenous tribes who fished in the flatter lands to the south or hunted deer in the challenging terrain of the central mountains.

Today, Taiwan is perched uneasily between the “One China” narrative advanced by Beijing, which claims that the island is part of its territory, and a sort of ad hoc independence. Taiwan is self-governing and democratic, but only a handful of nations recognize it as a sovereign state. Pro-independence sentiment is on the rise, and though Mandarin is now the primary language, almost 80 percent of the population speaks Taiwanese. Traces of the Japanese, Dutch, and even Spanish presence can be found in the names of places — like the cape of Yehliu, which comes from the Spanish “Punto Diablo” — and in distinctively Taiwanese takes on other cuisines, like sushi rolls filled with dried pork floss.

The Taiwan that would-be colonizers encountered was often described as an impassable wilderness, inhabited by Indigenous tribes who fished in the flatter lands to the south or hunted deer in the challenging terrain of the central mountains. One Qing-era critic, writing to dissuade the government from annexing this untamed, unmapped place, called the island a “ball of mud beyond the seas,” a place of boars, leopards, and rats.

The Japanese painter Ishikawa Kinichiro, who was part of the wave of artists and scholars that arrived following Japan’s military takeover, was moved by the “powerful contours” of the mountains and the richness of the island’s colors. “According to legend,” he wrote, “the place is hell, but once one sees it, it becomes heaven.” Taiwan was steeper, greener, more brutally majestic than the landscapes visitors were familiar with, and glimpsing it roused feelings of awe not so different from the transcendent experience of the sublime that newcomers encountered on seeing the cliffs and canyons of the American West.

Related: How One Brand Is Preserving and Promoting Indigenous Taiwanese Craft

One such site of startling majesty is Taroko Gorge, located within Taroko National Park on the less-developed eastern side of the island, part of the central mountain range that had once discouraged would-be settlers. We drove there along the Suhua Highway, which hugs the sheer, rocky coast, curving and turning high above the pristine shoreline. “It’s like Big Sur,” Alex commented, “but without the mansions.”

At the observation point at Qingshui Cliff, we watched the sea beat against the flank of Qingshui Mountain, which rises dizzily nearly a mile and a half into the sky. Our room that evening at the Liiko Hotel , located on a calm, flat peninsula just outside Taroko Gorge, looked out onto the cliffs that had been towering over us only 30 minutes earlier.

In the morning, we drove into the park with Gordon Chen, the thoughtful, soft-spoken doctoral student of Taiwanese history who would be our guide. He told us about the origin of the road we were on, the Central Cross-Island Highway, a massive Japanese imperialist project that thousands of largely Indigenous workers painstakingly cut through the mountains, several feet at a time, using dynamite. I had a hard time holding the facts in my head. They were being crowded out by the grandeur of the landscape looming around and above us.

We threaded our way between cliffs that reached so far up I lost sight of them, past sumptuous swaths of green and white marble accenting the rocks and the riverbed. We walked the Eternal Spring Shrine Trail, built to honor the workers who died building the highway, and visited the Swallow Grotto, where you can peer out at the rushing river from beneath the overhang of a cliff. At several points, we had to wear hard hats provided by the park to protect against possible falling rocks — as a “new” island, Taiwan’s geology is sometimes still figuring itself out.

With its misty cliffs and the occasional poetically situated pagoda, Taroko resembles the sort of classical scroll painting you might see at the National Palace Museum in Taipei. I had been chasing the perfect photo of the gorge ever since I arrived, but to capture even a piece of its massive scale I had to turn my iPhone upright, and still I was only getting half the scene. In the end, only a video would do, panning from eye level up and up to spectacular heights.

For this reason, it was a relief to ascend to the higher echelons of the park to visit Buluowan, one of the few habitable flatlands within the gorge and a traditional hunting ground of the Truku tribe, members of which today run a hotel and educational site for visitors. We looked down from the panoptic perspective of the ultramodern Buluowan Suspension Bridge, the fourth iteration of a structure first built in 1914. The original earned itself the name “Resignation Bridge” — soldiers ordered to cross its rickety ropes would often quit instead.

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The next morning, before heading to the airport, we visited the charming town of Xincheng, which has a beautiful beach called Qixingtan nestled between the mountains and cliffs. After the overpowering majesty of Taroko, all our landscape-soaked eyes wanted was to sit in the wood-paneled Long Gone Café to enjoy a proper latte and a bite of oolong-tea pudding. It felt like heaven to direct our senses inward, to flavors and textures, in the cozy embrace of a space constructed to the size and scale of the human body, rather than to that of giants.

After the literal and figurative highs of Taiwan’s verdant north and imposing central mountains, it was time to visit the Hengchun Peninsula, the southern reach of the island, and the remote tropical landscape of Kenting, where Taiwan’s first national park was designated in 1984. Our flight to Kaoxiong, Taiwan’s largest port city, took less than an hour, yet we noticed the difference in climate as soon as we stepped off the plane: the mountain mist and dramatic cloud sea had been swapped out for balmy late-spring heat and the kind of velvety sun that makes you want to fall asleep with a drink in your hand.

Hsu joined us once more at the airport and drove us to the southernmost tip of the island, past fields of cacao and sun-sweetened pineapples, past small village shrines and fruit stands selling mangoes the approximate size and weight of a newborn infant. Pulling over to the side of the road, he bought us a heap of bell-shaped red fruit called wax apples — his favorite, he told us. The first bite was refreshingly tart, bright, and crunchy, with a gentle sweetness — a perfect snack for a hot, humid afternoon.

In the south of the island, we finally saw some horizontal lines in the landscape. The terrain seemed to relax as it slouched toward the sea, with only a few mountains in the background — which, after the week we’d had, felt like the topographical equivalent of a happy sigh. Driving into Kenting National Forest Recreation Area, where we passed tropical flowers intermingled with slender palms and the occasional stretch of ranchland dotted with cattle, I couldn’t help thinking of Malibu and Tulum before they became tourist hot spots: places where you could enjoy the simple extravagance of sunshine and the warm scent of grass.

Our hotel, Gloria Manor, was a former summer palace of Chiang Kai-shek, the general who fled to Taiwan from mainland China in 1950 and ruled the island for the next 25 years. Located right inside the park, it was renovated in an elegant mid-century style. We watched the sunset from our balcony, which overlooked the distant surf, with graceful Dajian Mountain punctuating the landscape like a period.

Driving into Kenting National Forest Recreation Area, where we passed tropical flowers intermingled with slender palms and the occasional stretch of ranchland dotted with cattle, I couldn’t help thinking of Malibu and Tulum before they became tourist hot spots.

In the cool of the next morning, we headed into the nearby Hengchun Tropical Botanical Garden to learn more about the area’s ecological history. Kenting is a biodiversity hub, and its forests are riddled with limestone caves and uplifted coral reefs — we marveled at the surreal sight of coral on the top of a mountain, buried beneath a waterfall of roots. These tropical forests are the home of native monkeys and the shy spotted sika deer, as well as rare plants. One of these is the looking-glass tree, a Seussian marvel with roots that project far up out of the soil, forming sinuous, rippling buttress walls that can rise over three feet tall.

As we stopped to look at these surreal roots, an elderly female volunteer wearing a bright vest came over to talk to us. With our guide interpreting, she explained that this was a very special tree, one of the oldest in the forest, and that last year it became sick with a root disease. The community raised money for its treatment, and she visits it as much as she can to try to lift its spirits. She pressed something into my hand: one of the tree’s seeds, the size of an egg. “Maybe it’ll grow where you live,” she said to me, smiling.

After a quick snack at Ko Brunch, a café that serves scallion pancakes, radish cakes, and omelettes with adventurous fillings like tuna or pork chop, we drove out to Houbihou Beach and pulled on thick, floppy neoprene suits and water shoes for snorkeling in the calm waters. Beneath the waves teemed life of all kinds: bright parrotfish, neon-blue Taiwan reef cichlids, a humphead wrasse, even a four-foot sword-shaped silver one that eyed me nervously as I dog-paddled past. When I described it to our snorkeling instructor, a suntanned youth who was nursing a broken heart from a girlfriend who had split up with him during his year of mandatory military service, he nodded. “A needlefish,” he said. “They’re delicious — you can get one back in town, barbecued.”

We didn’t have the heart to eat the sad-eyed needlefish. Instead we strolled the streets of the nearby town of Hengchun and stopped at a cool surf bar on the beach — a sign over the door read WILD KIDS in handwritten capitals. Though the patio was full, there wasn’t a cell phone in sight, just people enjoying the loose, summery mood. In the open-air kitchen, the staff was doing Japanese-style robata grilling — little skewers of oysters or chicken skin or shishito peppers cooked over a charcoal flame and sprinkled with white pepper — as well as turning out all the french fries and mozzarella sticks a body yearns for after a long day surfing, paddling, and snorkeling under the hot sun. Alex grabbed a couple of ice-cold Taiwan beers, the crisp rice lager brewed by the government, and we leaned back in our chairs and watched the bar dog bark at passing mopeds.

Gazing out at the lights across the darkening bay, I realized that we had finally achieved that feeling of vacation bliss, the perfect ratio of tiredness and excitement, the perfect body temperature, the perfect breeze. We had reached the peak of Relaxation Mountain after a long and wild climb, and the view was spectacular.

How to Plan a Taiwan Trip

Gaia Hotel: A contemporary hotel with in-room mineral baths drawn from sulphurous hot springs.

Mandarin Oriental, Taipei : This grand hotel in the financial district has impeccable service, a breakfast buffet that spans continents, and automated blackout curtains that help you sleep off your jet lag.

Din Tai Fung:   Highlighting classic soup dumplings executed with masterful precision, this chain is also known for its elegant dessert dumpling, filled with sweet red bean paste.

National Palace Museum: This former palace of General Chiang Kai-Shek has one of the world’s greatest collections of Chinese art and artifacts, from ceramics and jade carvings to books and scroll paintings. 

Taipei 101: This landmark skyscraper has outdoor observation decks on the 91st and 101st floors, with views over the city and beyond. 

Liiko Hotel: A 34-room boutique hotel near the entrance to Taroko National Park that has fantastic views of the surrounding cliffs from every room as well as thoughtful nods to Indigenous culture in its décor and restaurant menu.

Long Gone Café: At this artsy, cozy spot within walking distance of the beach in Xincheng, browse a selection of art books while enjoying the café’s famous tea pudding.

Hengchun Peninsula

Gloria Manor:   Nestled inside Kenting forest, this refined hotel, which has its own native-plant nursery, is an elegant perch from which to explore the area’s coral reefs, take an evening hike, or simply unwind with a sunset view.

Ko Brunch: This café opened late in 2022 just outside Kenting National Park. It serves excellent breakfasts in the local style. Try the shredded scallion pancake with white pepper and salt, topped with an egg.

Wild Kids Bar: A relaxed Hengchun beachside hangout serving tiki drinks, local beer, and made-to-order skewers of seafood barbecued on a charcoal robata grill.

How to Book

WildTaiwan : Whether you like vigorous outdoor excursions or want to uncover the best off-the-map food stalls, WildTaiwan crafts itineraries based on local knowledge and a sense of adventure. Co-founder Kendra Tombolato (kendra@wild​taiwan​travel.com ) can organize a weeklong journey to Taiwan’s wild places.

A version of this story first appeared in the October 2023 issue of  Travel + Leisure  under the headline "Made in Taiwan. "

Top Ride-Hailing Apps in Taiwan: Explore the Best Options

• February 10, 2024

Taiwan is becoming a popular place to visit, known for its colorful culture, tasty food, and beautiful nature. Whether you're exploring its busy cities or the scenic countryside, knowing how to find and book taxis or ride-hailing services is important. This guide will show you how to do just that in Taiwan's capital and other important areas for travelers, making your trip smooth and enjoyable.

Taiwan, a stunning destination in East Asia, is famous for its vibrant culture, tasty food, and beautiful views. Whether you're exploring Taipei's lively night markets or admiring Taroko Gorge's natural wonders, getting around is key to enjoying your visit. Thankfully, technology makes traveling across the island easy. In this guide, we'll explore the top taxi apps in Taiwan, making your journey smooth and fun.

Exploring Taiwan just got easier! From the bustling streets of Taipei to the breathtaking east coast, discover the convenience of top taxi apps like Uber, Bolt, Taiwan Taxi, and more. Whether you're looking for user-friendly interfaces, English support, or diverse payment options, these apps have got you covered, ensuring your Taiwanese adventure is smooth and memorable. Say goodbye to travel hassles and hello to seamless journeys across this beautiful island!

Top Ride- Hailing And Taxi Apps in Taiwan

Uber has become a leading choice for getting around in Taiwan, offering an easy and trustworthy way to travel across the island. Its simple app and many drivers make moving through Taiwan's lively cities and beautiful countryside a breeze. With Uber, you can quickly book rides, see where your driver is in real time, and know exactly how much you'll pay, making your journey through Taiwan's colorful streets smooth.

Whether you're traveling alone or in a group, Uber has different car types to fit your needs, ensuring a comfortable ride for everyone. Plus, Uber's focus on safety and customer service means you can relax and enjoy exploring Taiwan's rich culture and sights with confidence.

Bolt is quickly becoming a favorite way to get around in Taiwan, offering a smart and wallet-friendly option for moving through the island's busy areas. Its easy-to-use app and increasing number of drivers mean you can book a ride smoothly and depend on Bolt for getting you where you need to go. Whether you're checking out Taipei's lively spots or heading to the countryside, Bolt lets you track your ride in real time and shows clear prices. Bolt cares about making sure passengers have a good and safe ride, showing its dedication to top-notch service. As Bolt grows in Taiwan, it's becoming a go-to choice for travelers who want a straightforward and economical way to explore the island.

3. Taiwan Taxi 55688

Taiwan Taxi, known for its easy-to-remember phone number, 55688, is a top choice for taxi services in Taiwan. The Taiwan Taxi app offers various rides, from standard taxis to more upscale options like comfort, luxury, and business class. It also includes special services like designated drivers and airport shuttles. For those who prefer not to ride in the traditional yellow taxis, the app offers "multi-taxi" choices that look more like regular cars, identified by their unique red license plates.

The app makes paying for rides easy, too. You can use cash, credit cards, or digital wallets like Apple Pay, Google Pay, and Samsung Pay. This flexibility is especially handy for travelers from abroad, making it unnecessary to carry local currency for taxi rides.

4. Taiwan Metro Taxi 55178

Taiwan Metro Taxi offers a service similar to Taiwan Taxi, including an easy-to-remember phone number, 55178, and a straightforward app. Using the app, you simply move a red marker to where you want to go, and the app quickly sets up your taxi ride. You can also type in your address manually. Like Taiwan Taxi, you can choose the type of taxi you want and see the estimated cost upfront. Payment is flexible, accepting various methods.

However, one downside to both Taiwan Taxi and Taiwan Metro Taxi is they don't have English versions of their apps. This might make it tricky for those who don't speak Chinese to use the services easily.

5. Find Taxi

Find Taxi really stands out because it's available in English, making it great for more users. The app is easy to use, letting you pick from different types of rides like airport transfers, scheduled taxis, instant taxis, or finding nearby drivers. You just need to put in where you're starting and where you're going to see the cost upfront. Plus, you can ask for specific things like non-smoking cars, wheelchair access, pet-friendly rides, female drivers, or drivers who speak English or Japanese.

This customization before you ride makes for a better experience. Another cool feature of Find Taxi is seeing reviews of drivers nearby. Knowing what others think can help you feel more secure in your choice and lead to a better ride.

In summary, getting around Taiwan's lively cities, beautiful scenery, and cultural spots becomes much easier with the top taxi apps. Whether you're moving through Taipei's busy streets or enjoying a drive on the east coast, these apps give travelers comfort, dependability, and confidence. From international names like Uber to local picks like TaxiGo, each app has special features designed to make your Taiwan journey better.

As a top company creating taxi apps, we understand how the world of taxis and ride-hailing in Taiwan is changing. Looking at the best apps in the area shows that these services do more than just offer rides; they make traveling easy and cater to what users want. From the wide range of options with Taiwan Taxi, the easy-to-use Taiwan Metro Taxi, to Find Taxi's English version, these apps are changing how people get around Taiwan.

At Grepix Ingotech, we're keenly aware of the evolving dynamics within the transportation sector. Inspired by the standout taxi apps in Taiwan, our passion is fueled to continuously forge ahead with groundbreaking solutions tailored for our clientele. The burgeoning need for streamlined and user-centric transport apps propels us toward devising tailor-made software that not only aligns with but surpasses user anticipations. From enriching the app experience with multilingual support to crafting sleek, navigable interfaces and weaving in distinctive functionalities like real-time driver feedback, our commitment lies in sculpting the future of transit in Taiwan and beyond. With Grepix Ingotech, embark on a journey of transformation in transportation, where innovation drives us forward.

Vinay Jain is the Co-Founder at Grepix Infotech and brings over 10 years of entrepreneurial experience. His focus revolves around software & business development and customer satisfaction.

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Taiwan Packing List

Last Updated: 11/06/2023

Published: 03/01/2023

I may make commissions from purchases made through links.  Read here for more information. And as an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

This is an overview of what you should pack when visiting Taiwan. Keep reading to learn more.

I’ve visited Taiwan many times and currently live here. I put together several lists of things to pack, depending on your intentions.

• Insect repellant & sunscreen are essential for Taiwan travel.
• Google Translate & Google Maps are mobile apps I recommend downloading.
• If you move to Taiwan, bring supplements & CPAP equipment.

How to Pack for a Taiwan Trip

Aside from temperature fluctuations in winter, what you’ll pack for Taiwan remains the same throughout most of the year. You’ll find most items you need in Taiwan at low prices, like:

• Insect repellant
• Some medicines (like acetaminophen)

It rains a lot in Taiwan. And it’s humid frequently. You’ll need to combat both umbrellas and body wipes. The latter will save you when your body erupts sweat when walking outside, since you could use the wipes to remove your sweat (and stinkiness).

What to Pack for Traveling to Taiwan in Summer & Autumn

Pack these items when traveling to Taiwan in the summer and fall:

I have tested and frequently use all of these products except for the travel adapter and the backpack cover. I do have the travel adapter on my list of things to buy, though. I do thorough research on the products I recommend. As I always want to use the “best” of whatever I buy.

Average temperatures throughout summer and autumn in Taiwan are as follows:

What to Pack for Traveling to Taiwan in Winter

Pack these items when visiting Taiwan in winter :

Pack the same as you would for the winter, except you’ll need warmer clothing. Regardless of when visiting, you’ll need an umbrella. I recommend buying these at convenience stores . I found 65” umbrellas at Family Mart for NT$150.

Taiwan’s average temperatures during winter are as follows:

• 19.3 °C–24.2 °C
• 15.6 °C–20.7 °C
• 13.9 °C–19.1 °C
• 14.2 °C–19.6 °C

Apps to Download Before Traveling to Taiwan

Apps to help you navigate Taiwan easier include:

• Google Maps : to have offline maps of Taiwan and get directions, information & schedules of places to visit
• Uber : to book rides with drivers who can speak English and accept credit cards
• YouBike : to rent public bicycles in Taipei, Kaohsiung and other cities with bike lanes
• Taiwan Railway : to check train schedules, fares, & availability for traveling around Taiwan by rail
• LINE : to communicate with locals who use this instant-messaging app widely.
• Bus+ : to track bus routes, stops, schedules and availability in Taipei, Kaohsiung, & other cities
• Go! Taipei Metro : to plan your trips on Taipei’s subway system with maps, fares & real-time information
• T Express : to book tickets for Taiwan’s high-speed rail service that connects major cities across the island
• Google Translate : to translate text, speech, handwriting, images & websites between 109 languages, including Chinese (Traditional) and English
• Easy Currency Converter : converts currency offline

How To Pack a Carry-on for One Bag Travel to Taiwan

Pack light with these items:

Some Taiwan hotels and hostels offer laundry services, which will require you to pack less clothing. Otherwise, night markets and stores like Uniqlo offer affordable (and decent-quality) clothes.

If you have other things you’ll need to pack (e.g., portable CPAP), bring these as well. Though, it may make 1-backpack travel more difficult.

What to Pack When Moving to Taiwan

In addition to items you’d pack for traveling, bring these items if you’re living in Taiwan for over a year:

Regarding hard-to-find supplements, I use iHerb to order what I need . However, you’ll need to pay them your soul (a lot of money) in import fees.

If you prefer aluminum-free deodorant, you won’t find many options. I’ve seen Arm & Hammer aluminum-free deodorant pop up in some stores within the last few years. But if you prefer other bands, you may have to order them online .

Many import shops on Shopee offer foreign and hard-to-find topics at a hiked price. It’s how I get my supplements. Costco does offer a wide selection of supplements, but mostly basic stuff like vitamin C and Lutein.

Buy CPAP machines outside Taiwan. From what I understand, they’re costly here. Though, I couldn’t find the exact prices.

Electronics in your home country will likely cost less than in Taiwan . Since Taiwan’s a smaller market, electronics manufacturers allegedly charge more for their products. For instance, you’ll likely find cheaper iPhones in the U.S.

Apps to Download Before Moving to Taiwan

Apps I use daily as a Taiwan expat are:

• LINE : how I communicate with everyone
• Go! Taipei Metro : fantastic for knowing when I’ll reach a station & the journey price
• I occasionally use Microsoft’s translator (it’s decent)
• Google Maps : great for offline navigation
• Surfshark VPN : I don’t trust public Wi-Fi 
• EZ Way : for customs clearance
• Pleco : great tool for learning Mandarin Chinese
• Taiwan NHI app : for paying health insurance bills

I don’t take buses and trains often, though I should.

Important Phone Numbers in Taiwan

Phone numbers to know when visiting Taiwan include:

Keep reading to find frequently asked questions about packing for visiting (or living in) Taiwan.

What Do People Usually Wear in Taiwan?

In summer people wear thin clothes like cotton or linen . In winter, people wear jackets and sweaters.

More Guides for Visitors

• TPASS Transportation Card Guide 07/10/2023
• Taiwan Packing List 03/01/2023
• Taiwan Hot Springs: An Overview 01/26/2023
• Taiwan Travel Costs 12/10/2022
• Taiwan Winter Packing List 10/28/2022
• How to Rent a Car in Taiwan 10/27/2022
• Is Taiwan Safe to Visit? 10/21/2022

Even More Guides

Taiwan Delicacies to Bring Home

What to Buy in Taiwan Supermarkets

Things to Buy in Taipei for Souvenirs

Sing Ren Garden Night Market – A Visitors Guide

TPASS Transportation Card Guide

Keelung Night Market – Visitors Guide

Tonghua Night Market – Visitors Guide

Taiwan Hot Springs: An Overview

Theodore began first experienced the wonders of traveling when visiting Vietnam. Afterward, he went crazy and ventured to at least… More about Theo

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7 Useful Apps Every Traveler Should Know About

By Harrison Pierce

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Technology continues to make travel easier for millions of people around the globe. New apps offer travelers fresh ways to research a destination, connect with fellow globetrotters, communicate with locals, and track their flights. As a full-time digital nomad , I’ve learned the importance of having the right tools at your disposal when on the road.

Over the past few years, I’ve visited dozens of countries, flown hundreds of thousands of miles, and tested countless apps to find the ones that prove to be the most helpful. And while tools like Meetup, Google Maps, Google Translate, currency converters, and vacation rental , airline, and hotel–specific apps are in fact indispensable on most trips, I find that many of the best travel apps are still undiscovered by my fellow travelers.

Below, seven travel apps that make life on the go markedly easier (and more fun), from real-time flight trackers to photo-sharing gems—all of these apps are free, but some have paid pro versions worth considering. Don’t think these apps are only for full-time travelers—they prove useful for every type of traveler, whether you're in a brand-new destination or back for a return visit.

Discover the best apps for travelers:

Apps for flying, apps for exploring, apps for photo sharing.

My favorite app on this list is Flighty, a must-have for any frequent flier . The free version is fantastic, but I recommend splurging for the premium version, which gives you even more useful information and comes at a reasonable cost of $48 per year. The functionality it provides more than justifies the price.

The free version allows you to input all future flights plus past journeys you've taken within the last year. It provides updated information if any schedule changes occur to upcoming flights and allows you to track all the miles you’ve flown in one place.

The other main benefit is that it allows you to share your flight information with friends and family members who are also on Flighty. They will receive real-time updates about your flight without you having to text them. My parents love to make sure I’m safe so they appreciate getting detailed information about my travels—even while I’m in the air.

Flightradar24 is a favorite app among fellow aviation geeks. It lets you track almost any aircraft you see in the air throughout the day or night. You can track your own flight, a friend's flight, or any plane you see in real-time. It shares plenty of cool data, like the altitude, speed, arrival and departure airports and times, and tail number.

There are tons of eSIM apps on the market, but Airalo is probably my favorite, with digital SIM cards available for dozens of countries. I find it to be the most reliable and offers the best data packages. It can be a little pricey, but it is the best option if you’re only taking short trips. Holafly is another eSIM app that offers unlimited data and works well, but I find the app to be much more glitchy than Airalo and would recommend using the desktop version.

This one is for the planner of the group. Wanderlog merges the best of a bunch of different apps into one. Imagine an app that lets you plan a trip with ease: collaborate with friends as if you’re on Google Docs, manage expense tracking like Splitwise, and have a central place for your reservations, checklists, and more. Tripit is a similar travel planner app, so you can download both and get a feel for which interface you like better.

Been allows you to track the countries you’ve visited and make a wish list of places you can’t wait to cross off your travel bucket list . It gives you information like the percentage of the globe you’ve been to and shows you a world map of your trips. It’s always fun to add in a new country whenever I reach my destination.

This app was introduced to me by fellow nomads I met at a cafe in Montevideo, Uruguay . It automatically tracks your route across the world, allowing you to quickly upload pictures throughout your travels that can be viewed by anyone who has access to your profile. It’s an excellent way to share important moments with loved ones without needing to send photos to each person individually. Users can also create easily accessible guides filled with up-to-date information to help you plan your own trip.

Steller is another app that a friend recently introduced me to, and I’ve quickly fallen in love with it. It uses a combination of AI and user experiences to help you plan trips around the globe. From recommendations of things to see, like the Recoleta Cemetery in Buenos Aires or the Royal Palace of Naples, to full guidebooks created by users, you can get inspired, book experiences, and discover hidden gems within this app.

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How to get around in Taiwan

Oct 26, 2023 • 8 min read

If you plan on traveling all over Taiwan, be prepared to use a mix of train, high-speed rail, ferry and bus © kitzcorner / Getty Images

All cities and the majority of tourist sites in Taiwan are connected by a web of safe, efficient and affordable transport.

That said, there are far more options to go up and down the island than across because of the Central Mountain Range running down the middle like a spine. If you plan on traveling all over Taiwan, be prepared to use a mix of train, high-speed rail, ferry and bus.

Steps are being taken to increase the number of electric vehicles on the road, most notably through the Blueprint for Net-Zero Emissions in 2050. Currently, only 8% of city and intercity buses are electric, but the government has vowed to introduce 1000 electric buses annually from 2023 while removing up to 11,000 diesel vehicles by 2030, with the target that all buses will run on electricity by 2030. The majority of taxis are not electric, but operators are also receiving incentives to go green. 

Take the conventional train to the east coast 

Taiwan Railway Administration (TRA) has an extensive system running along both the east and west coasts, connecting all major cities. There are no services into the Central Mountains, except tourism branch lines. Trains are comfortable, safe and reliable, with few delays. 

TRA has several types of train. Zìqiáng 自強  (also Tze-chiang) express trains are fast and more expensive. All classes of Ziqiang train are priced the same for the same journey, even though, for example, the Puyuma is the fastest. Taroko Express 太魯閣 (Tàilǔgé) is a special tilting train under the Ziqiang class that takes you from Taipei to Hualien in two hours. Another tilting train under the Ziqiang class, Puyuma Express 普悠瑪 is TRA's fastest train at 150km/h (93mph). It is named after Taiwan’s Puyuma people.

Tickets can be reserved 28 days in advance online (two more days if reserving on a Friday) or on an ibon kiosk (Chinese only), found in convenience stores and at train stations. You’ll need your passport. Early reservations are strongly advised for fast trains, especially on weekends or holidays. The hottest tickets are snapped up within minutes of release for booking at midnight. 

However, most fares belong to the Jǔguāng 莒光 (also Chu-kuang) and Fùxīng 復興 (also Fu-hsing) classes. They're comfortable, slower than Ziqiang and faster than local trains. The fare is about 20% to 40% cheaper than Zìqiang. The cheap and slow Local Train (區間車; Qūjiānchē) covers short-to-medium distances and stops at all stations. There is no reserved seating.

Use the high-speed rail to save north-south travel time

Zipping between Taipei and Kaohsiung (Zuoying station) in as fast as 90 minutes, the bullet service on  Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) operates a single line along the west corridor that makes stops at 12 stations, including all major cities. Tickets are a little less than double the price of a standard train, but it takes less than half the time. Business fares are about 50% higher.

In general, there are at least three trains per hour. All stations have visitor information centers with English-speaking staff to help with bus transfers, hotel bookings and car rentals.

You can buy high-speed rail tickets up to 29 days in advance. It is advisable to book ahead if you are traveling on a weekend or holiday. Early bird discounts of 10% to 35% apply when reserving a ride on non-peak-time trains five to 29 days in advance. There are tiny discounts for non-reserved tickets, which are sold only on the day of the ride. 

You can reserve through the bilingual app TEXpress and pay electronically or in person, either at a convenience store or the HSR station. You can also reserve on the HSR website and pay at any HSR station or convenience store before the deadline for payment. Alternatively, you can reserve at a convenience store or directly at an HSR station. You'll need your passport number to make reservations.

Enjoy the scenery on a sightseeing train

Besides the TRA and HSR, a handful of small-gauge branch lines are maintained for tourism purposes. Most of these are logging lines constructed by Japanese colonialists and feature vintage trains and restored Japanese-era stations.

The highly popular Alishan Forest Railway  runs from Chiayi to the mountain resort of Alishan, though the final leg is still under repairs after being damaged in a typhoon. Day-trippers from Taipei like to town-hop along the Pingxi Line. The Jiji Line passes by a former logging village with a wood museum and a large kiln.

Stretch your budget by taking an intercity bus

There's a far-reaching network of intercity buses from Taipei to Kenting National Park and across the north as far as Yilan. Service from the west coast to the east coast is limited to a few buses a day, from Taichung across to Hualien and Kaohsiung to Taitung. Service is also limited within the east area (from Hualien to Taitung). On the west coast, there are very frequent departures (some 24-hour operations), with midweek and late-evening discounts. Most companies serve the same west coast routes. The main transit points are Taipei, Taichung, Tainan and Kaohsiung. 

Taiwan’s long-distance buses are reliable, comfortable and cheap. Some companies offer large, cozy reclining seats. Buses are heavily air-conditioned, so pack a blanket or warm clothes. Reservations are advisable on weekends and holidays. The easiest way to buy a ticket is either from the bus station itself or from a convenience store. Most bus companies have a ticket office and stop near the main train station. Two of the biggest companies are Kuo Kuang and UBus . 

Taiwan has a wide network of rural buses, but daily departures are few and far between, except to major tourist destinations. In most cases, you're better off taking the tourist shuttle buses.

Visit Sun Moon Lake on a tourist shuttle

Taiwan has an excellent system of small shuttle buses with well-planned routes that connect major and minor tourist attractions to TRA and HSR stations in 20 cities and counties, including three offshore islands. The buses usually leave hourly on weekdays and half-hourly on weekends. At the time of writing, buses are less frequent than before, but this is expected to change when tourism picks up. 

Experience Taroko Gorge on two wheels

Long-distance and recreational cycling is huge in Taiwan and quite a lot of routes, especially in scenic tourist areas, have designated cycle lanes. The east coast is especially popular and gorgeous to cycle, so there are plenty of bike-rental places;  you can also bring your bike on public transport and can carry a foldable bike (packed in a bag or case) on the HSR. For conventional TRA trains, there is more than one way to board with a bike . You'll have no problems bringing bicycles into the country.

The cyclist’s main enemies are bus drivers and motorcyclists. Note some stretches of the east-coast highway are considered treacherous. Also, keep in mind that cyclists are banned from national highways (國道) and expressways (快速道路) but allowed on provincial highways (省道), as well as county and city highways (縣道/市道).

Rent a car and chauffeur to save time 

Having your own vehicle, either a car or a scooter, is particularly useful on the east coast, the offshore islands and in mountain areas. You will need an International Driver's Permit to drive in Taiwan. And unless you have a Taiwan scooter license, scooter rental agencies often require that your international driver's license has a motorcycle or scooter endorsement. 

By the standards of many countries, driving in Taiwan can be chaotic and dangerous. It is not advisable to drive in cities or medium-sized towns until you're familiar with the conditions. Parking is challenging in the big cities but especially frustrating in Taipei. Road signage is bilingual.

It is better to charter a car to take you sightseeing. The driver will stop at major attractions to let you take pictures and walk around, or you can work out an itinerary with them. 

Check the weather before booking a sailing to Lanyu Island

There are regular ferry routes to Penghu , Lanyu, and Green Island (and between Lanyu and Green Island as well) in summer, and to Little Liuqiu Island year-round. Sailings to Green Island, Lanyu and Matsu are subject to weather conditions, however. Expect cancellations in bad weather and winter schedules to change frequently. There is no ferry service to Kinmen, but you can fly from Taipei or Kaohsiung. 

Save air travel for trips to the outer islands

The excellent train network renders domestic air travel, except to the outer islands, a bit pointless. Domestic flights from Taipei leave from Songshan Airport and not Taoyuan. Flights to outlying islands are often canceled because of bad weather, especially in the east.

Accessible transportation

Taiwan’s train systems have made some steps towards accessibility in recent years. Almost all metro stations have elevators equipped with braille buttons, speakers, intercom and handrails. There are also waiting areas for wheelchair passengers and tactile tiles installed on platforms and near stairs. The HSR and TRA have elevators and barrier-free seating in designated carriages. All three systems have staff to help disabled passengers should they need it.

Buses are slightly less convenient. Only a fraction of intercity buses are barrier-free, although within big cities like Kaohsiung and Taipei, bus drivers will let down a ramp for elderly passengers or wheelchair users. Once on board, there’s priority seating and wheelchair parking space. You can contact the Taiwan Access for All Association for assistance. 

Service dogs are allowed on board system-wide. For more online resources for accessible travel, visit Lonely Planet's Accessible Travel Portal .

Pay for public transit with an EasyCard 

EasyCard is Taiwan’s contactless smart card that you use to pay for your ride on the metro and city buses. The card itself costs NT$100 and you can top up at any metro station or convenience store.  

EasyCard can be used on some intercity buses and taxis, plus the majority of TRA trains. Exceptions to the latter include the Puyuma Express, the Taroko Express and tourism trains. Passengers paying with the EasyCard get 10% off for train journeys under 70km (43 miles).

This article was first published November 2022 and updated October 2023

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Is it safe to travel to Taiwan right now? The latest travel advice after earthquake and tsunami warning

Here’s everything we know so far

Taiwan  is one of Asia’s most underrated travel destinations, with a magnetic capital city in  Taipei  and a stunning mountainous landscape. Located at the crossover of the South and East China Sea, the island nation offers travellers a long list of adventures .

However, an earthquake struck the east coast of the island at 7:58am (local time) this morning, which is the strongest experienced by Taiwan for 25 years. Locally, it’s been recorded as a magnitude 7.2, but the US Geological Survey recorded it as 7.4.  It was also felt in southern Japan , eastern China and the Philippines .

Here is what we know so far about travelling to Taiwan in the wake of the earthquake. 

Is it safe to travel to Taiwan? 

Though travelling to the island is yet to be explicitly advised against, aftershocks of at least 6.5 magnitude are expected to continue over the next four days at least, according to Taiwanese Central Weather Administration’s Seismology Centre. 

The tremors set off nine landslides, and the debris collapsed onto Suhua highway in the city of Hualien, which has been the worst-hit area. Multiple residential buildings have been damaged, and a couple have even collapsed. 

Taiwan’s electricity operator, Taipower, has said more than 87,000 people are currently without power. 

Where was impacted by the earthquake? 

The epicentre of the earthquake was around 18km south of Hualien, with the surrounding county being the worst-hit area, according to local officials. Three hikers were killed in Taroko National Park. The death toll in total so far is nine people, and 821 have been injured – this number is expected to rise.

Train services across the island have been suspended, as have subway services in Taipei. 

Is there still a tsunami warning in place?  

The earthquake triggered tsunami warnings across the region, but according to Al Jazeera , those have now been lifted. 

How close is Taiwan to Japan? 

Taiwan and Japan are 2,163km apart. While this might sound like a long distance, tsunamis have been known to travel up to 5,000km, and small tsunami waves were experienced on the coasts of Japan’s Miyako and Yaeyama islands. 

What’s the latest UK Foreign Office advice? 

The UK Foreign Office updated its Taiwan travel advice page today (April 3), stating: ‘On Wednesday 3 April 2024 at 07.58 local time, a magnitude 7.2 earthquake struck Eastern Taiwan with shocks felt all across the island including Taipei. Aftershocks continue to occur and you should expect travel disruption. You should consult the Central Weather Administration website and other official sources for more information.’

What are your rights if you’ve booked a trip? 

Until the UK Foreign Office issues advice against all but essential travel to Taiwan, it’s unlikely you’ll be able to cancel your travel plans without any penalties. To see what can be done, it’d be best to contact your accommodation, flight or trip provider.  

Have flights to Taiwan and Japan been cancelled?

So far, there’s no news of flights to either Taiwan or Japan being cancelled, but just to be sure, it’s best to check with your airline directly if you have one booked. 

Stay in the loop: sign up to our free Time Out Travel newsletter for all the latest travel news.

• Liv Kelly Contributing Writer

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Hurricane tracker, severe weather, radar & maps, news & features, winter center, news / weather news, dozens trapped in tunnels after taiwan’s strongest quake in 25 years kills at least nine.

Rescuers in Taiwan scrambled to free dozens of people trapped in highway tunnels after the island was struck by its strongest earthquake in 25 years Wednesday, killing at least seven and injuring hundreds of others.

By Wayne Chang and Helen Regan, CNN

Published Apr 2, 2024 9:34 PM PDT | Updated Apr 4, 2024 5:50 AM PDT

These videos show the moment a magnitude 7.4 earthquake struck off the coast of Taiwan, shaking homes and leading to a tsunami risk for multiple countries.

Taipei, Taiwan (CNN) —  Rescuers in  Taiwan  scrambled to free dozens of people trapped in highway tunnels after the island was struck by its  strongest earthquake  in 25 years Wednesday, killing at least nine and injuring more than 900 others.

The powerful 7.4 magnitude tremor shook the island’s east coast, hitting at 7:58 a.m. local time 18 kilometers (11 miles) south of Hualien city and at a depth of 34.8 kilometers (21 miles), according to the US Geological Survey. It was followed by several strong aftershocks with tremors felt across the island, including by CNN staff in the capital Taipei.

A partially collapsed building is seen in Hualien, eastern Taiwan, on April 3. (Credit: TVBS/AP via CNN Newsource)

Taiwan’s National Fire Agency (NFA) said in an update on Wednesday that the death toll had risen to nine, while 934 people have been injured.

The NFA did not indicate the severity of the injuries.

Meanwhile, 75 people stranded in various tunnels in Hualien County have been rescued by emergency responders. As of 7 a.m. Eastern Time, 137 people remain trapped.

Among those trapped were 50 employees of the Silk’s Place Hotel Taroko, who were traveling in four minibuses. Authorities have been unable to reach them by phone, and have listed them as trapped for the time being.

Two German citizens that were caught up earlier in a tunnel in Hualien County have been rescued, the NFA added.

All the deaths were in Hualien County, among them three hikers killed by falling rocks in the tourist hotspot  Taroko Gorge , the NFA said. Falling rocks also killed a truck driver in front of a tunnel on the east coast’s Suhua Highway, it added.

The nation of Taiwan was rocked by a 7.4 magnitude earthquake on April 3. Rescuers have begun the search for survivors in the aftermath. At least nine fatalities were reported and hundreds injured.

Reports of extensive damage have also emerged, with collapsed buildings in Hualien County, thousands of homes left without power and a major highway closed due to landslides and rockfalls, according to Taiwanese officials.

Most of those trapped are in two road tunnels in northern Hualien County, the NFA said. Two German nationals are stranded in a third tunnel in the county, it said.

The 400-meter Jinwen Tunnel, where 60 people are trapped, is one of more than a dozen that thread the Suhua Highway, a scenic but treacherous and narrow road that runs for 118 kilometers (73 miles) along the east coast.

Meanwhile, rescuers were en route to 12 people, including two Canadians, stuck on a trail in Taroko Gorge.

Taiwan’s Central Weather Administration spokesperson warned that powerful aftershocks as high as magnitude 7 are expected to occur until the end of the week.

“There was really strong shaking… We quickly turned off the gas and electricity and opened the door. It was really strong. It felt like the house would fall down,” Taipei resident Chang Yu-lin said on CNN affiliate Taiwan Plus.

Chen Nien-tzu, also in Taipei, said, “It was really wild.”

“It’s been a long time since we’ve had an earthquake so it felt really scary,” she said on Taiwan Plus.

The quake prompted initial tsunami warnings in Taiwan, southern Japan and the Philippines, with waves less than half a meter observed along some coasts, and prompting airlines to suspend flights. All tsunami warnings were later lifted.

A partially collapsed building is seen in Hualien, eastern Taiwan, after a strong quake struck on April 3. (Credit: TVBS/AP via CNN Newsource)

In Taiwan, military personnel were dispatched to help with disaster relief and schools and workplaces suspended operations as aftershocks hit the island, according to the Defense Ministry.

Taiwan’s outgoing President Tsai Ing-wen said Wednesday she had ordered her administration to “immediately” get “on top of the situation and understand local impacts as soon as possible.”

Tsai also told the administration to “provide necessary assistance, and work together with local governments to minimize the impact of the disaster.”

Taiwan, a self-ruled island east of mainland China, is home to about 23 million people, most of whom live in the industrialized cities of its west coast, including the capital.

The island is regularly rocked by earthquakes due to its location on  the Pacific Ring of Fire , which runs around the edge of the Pacific Ocean and causes massive seismic and volcanic activity from Indonesia to Chile.

Wednesday’s quake is the strongest to hit Taiwan since  1999 , according to the Central Weather Administration. That year, a 7.7 magnitude quake hit south of Taipei, killing 2,400 people and injuring 10,000 others.

Hualien County, parts of which are mountainous and remote, is home to about 300,000 people on the island’s sparsely populated east coast. A magnitude 6.2 quake hit near  the area in 2018 , killing at least  17 people and injuring more than 300 others.

Collapsed buildings, highway damaged

At least seven people have died and 700 were injured after a 7.4 magnitude earthquake shook Taiwan on April 3.

The full extent of the damage is still being assessed, with road and rail closures curtailing access to the quake’s epicenter in Hualien County.

More than 100 buildings were damaged across the island, the National Fire Agency said, with about half of those in Hualien County.

Search and rescue operations were ongoing Wednesday afternoon at the nine-story Uranus Building that had partially collapsed, trapping residents, Hualien County Magistrate Hsu Chen-wei told reporters. So far, 22 people had been rescued from the building, according to the NFA.

More than 91,000 households are without electricity, according to Taiwan’s Central Emergency Command Center. The government-operated Taipower Company is working to restore power, it added.

Footage posted on social media showed several collapsed buildings in Hualien and residents helping trapped people escape through the window of a damaged apartment complex.

The quake struck during the morning rush hour, with videos showing vehicles bouncing on a vigorously shaking highway, an overpass swaying in Taipei, and commuters struggling to stand inside a juddering Taipei metro train.

Meanwhile, video broadcast by CNN affiliate TVBS showed cellphone and security camera footage of the moment tremors struck homes and businesses across the island. One clip showed power lines swaying violently above a street and another saw chandeliers shaking in a restaurant.

Large boulders could be seen strewn across the eastern Suhua Highway, with several tunnels broken — including one split in half, TVBS footage showed. CNN affiliate SET News shows the front of a car smashed by fallen rocks.

Transport authorities recorded at least nine rockfalls and landslides on the highway, which has been closed to traffic.

Another highway connecting the west coast with eastern Taiwan was also damaged by falling rocks, with at least 12 cars hit and nine people injured, TVBS reported.

Tsunami waves

The quake sparked tsunami warnings across the region as authorities ordered evacuations.

In Taiwan’s Chenggong, about 100 kilometers (62 miles) south of the quake’s epicenter, waves reached almost half a meter. The Central Weather Administration advised residents to evacuate to higher ground.

The Japan Meteorological Agency also issued a tsunami alert for the southern Miyakojima and Okinawa islands,  warning of waves up to 3 meters  (nearly 10 feet) high. A 30-centimeter (nearly 1 foot) wave impacted Okinawa, the first tsunami observed there in 26 years, the agency said.

Several hours later, the US Tsunami Warning Center said the tsunami threat had “largely passed” but people in coastal areas should remain alert.

All flights from Okinawa and Kagoshima prefectures were suspended following the tsunami warnings in the area, Japan Airlines said.

Okinawa’s Naha airport resumed flights after the tsunami warning was downgraded to an advisory, airport spokesperson Hideaki Tsurudo told CNN.

This is a developing story and will be updated.

The-CNN-Wire™ & © 2024 Cable News Network, Inc., a Warner Bros. Discovery Company. All rights reserved.

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Eclipse expected to cause travel chaos; here’s how to navigate the roads and skies

(CNN) - Millions of Americans are expected to travel to see the total solar eclipse on April 8. Cities and towns along the route of totality are expecting big crowds.

While the boost in visitors is good for local economies, the extra people are expected to cause chaos on the roads and in the skies.

“You really need to plan ahead to be safe,” said Elizabeth Carey, director of public relations for AAA Western and Central New York.

Communities from Mexico to Canada are in the path of totality, meaning the moon will completely cover the sun, creating total darkness during daylight. Some areas like western New York are expecting a million visitors.

AAA has several tips for drivers like navigating the old-fashioned way with a map, especially if you’re traveling in less populated areas.

“In a very rural area, you’re talking about wilderness with no cell service,” Carey said.

AAA also recommends drivers not try and watch the eclipse while driving, have their headlights on, don’t wear eclipse glasses while driving, and watch out for animals.

“It could trigger wildlife to be out and about,” said Carey.

If you’re flying, the Federal Aviation Administration is warning travelers to expect long lines and possible delays at airports. Monday’s eclipse falls during the busy spring break travel season.

The FAA says they’re expecting more than 46,000 flights the day after the eclipse.

Copyright 2024 CNN Newsource. All rights reserved.

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Fierce earthquake rattles Taiwan, killing 9 and injuring more than 1,000

HUALIEN, Taiwan (AP) — The strongest earthquake in a quarter-century rocked Taiwan Wednesday morning, killing nine people, stranding dozens at quarries and a national park, and sending some residents scrambling out the windows of damaged buildings.

The quake, which injured more than 1,000, struck just before 8 a.m. and was centered off the coast of rural, mountainous Hualien County , where some buildings leaned at severe angles, their ground floors crushed. Just over 150 kilometers (93 miles) away in the capital of Taipei, tiles fell from older buildings, and schools evacuated students to sports fields as aftershocks followed.

Rescuers fanned out in Hualien, looking for people who may be trapped and using excavators to stabilize damaged buildings. The numbers of people missing, trapped or stranded fluctuated as authorities learned of more in trouble and worked to locate or free them.

Some 70 workers who were stranded at two rock quarries were safe, according to Taiwan’s national fire agency, but the roads to reach them were damaged by falling rocks. Six workers were going to be airlifted on Thursday.

In the hours after the quake, TV showed neighbors and rescue workers lifting residents, including a toddler, through windows and onto the street. Some doors had fused shut in the shaking.

Taiwan is regularly jolted by quakes and its population is among the best prepared for them. But authorities expected a relatively mild earthquake and did not send out alerts. The eventual quake was strong enough to scare even people who are used to such shaking.

“I’ve grown accustomed to (earthquakes). But today was the first time I was scared to tears by an earthquake,” said Hsien-hsuen Keng, who lives in a fifth-floor apartment in Taipei. “I was awakened by the earthquake. I had never felt such intense shaking before.”

At least nine people died in the quake, according to Taiwan’s fire agency. Most of the fatalities were caused by falling rocks, including four people who were struck inside Taroko National Park, according to the state Central News Agency. One died in a residential building that was damaged, the news agency said.

A small tsunami washed ashore on southern Japanese islands but caused no damage.

At least 1,011 people were reported injured. Authorities initially lost contact with 50 hotel employees in minibuses in the park after the quake downed phone networks; three employees walked to the hotel, while the others remained stranded. About two dozen tourists were also stranded in the park, the state news agency said.

The quake and aftershocks caused many landslides and damaged roads, bridges and tunnels. The national legislature, a converted school built before World War II, and sections of the main airport in Taoyuan, just south of Taipei, also saw minor damage.

Hualien Mayor Hsu Chen-wei said 48 residential buildings were damaged in the city, which shares a name with the county. Hsu said water and electricity supplies were in the process of being restored.

Taiwan’s earthquake monitoring agency said the quake was 7.2 magnitude while the U.S. Geological Survey put it at 7.4. It struck about 18 kilometers (11 miles) from Hualien and was about 35 kilometers (21 miles) deep. Multiple aftershocks followed.

Traffic along the east coast was at a virtual standstill after the earthquake, with landslides and falling debris hitting tunnels and highways. Train service was suspended across the island of 23 million people, with some tracks twisted by the stress of the quake, as was subway service in Taipei, where sections of a newly constructed elevated line split apart but did not collapse.

The initial panic quickly faded on the island, which prepares for such events with drills at schools and notices issued via public media and mobile phone. Stephen Gao, a seismologist and professor at Missouri University of Science and Technology, said Taiwan’s readiness is among the most advanced in the world and includes strict building codes and a world-class seismological network.

By noon, the metro station in the busy northern Taipei suburb of Beitou was again buzzing with people commuting to jobs and people arriving to visit the hot springs or travel the mountain paths at the base of an extinct volcano.

The earthquake was felt in Shanghai and provinces along China’s southeastern coast, according to Chinese media. China and Taiwan are about 160 kilometers (100 miles) apart.

The Japan Meteorological Agency said a tsunami of 30 centimeters (about 1 foot) was detected on the coast of Yonaguni island about 15 minutes after the quake struck. Smaller waves were measured in Ishigaki and Miyako islands. All alerts in the region had been lifted by Wednesday afternoon.

Taiwan lies along the Pacific “Ring of Fire,” the line of seismic faults encircling the Pacific Ocean where most of the world’s earthquakes occur.

Hualien was last struck by a deadly quake in 2018 that killed 17 people and brought down a historic hotel. Taiwan’s worst quake in recent years struck on Sept. 21, 1999, with a magnitude of 7.7, causing 2,400 deaths, injuring around 100,000 and destroying thousands of buildings.

The economic fallout from the quake has yet to be calculated. Taiwan is the leading manufacturer of the world’s most sophisticated computer chips and other high-technology items that are highly sensitive to seismic events. Parts of the electricity grid were shut down, possibly leading to disruptions in the supply chain and financial losses.

Taiwanese chipmaker TSMC , which supplies semiconductors to companies such as Apple, said it evacuated employees from some of its factories in Hsinchu, southwest of Taipei. Hsinchu authorities said water and electricity supplies for all the factories in the city’s science park were functioning as normal.

Bodeen and Mistreanu reported from Taipei, Taiwan. Associated Press journalists Mari Yamaguchi in Tokyo, Ken Moritsugu in Beijing, Lorian Belanger in Bangkok, Jim Gomez in Manila, Philippines, Audrey McAvoy in Honolulu, and Fu Ting and Didi Tang in Washington contributed to this report.

This story has been updated to correct that the 70 people stranded are in rock quarries, not coal mines.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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10 Apps That Will Make The Most Of Your Vacation In 2024

I f you've ever spent time at a networking event, made small talk at your kids' soccer games, or scrolled through a dating app, you'll know that "travel" is something almost everyone will tell you they enjoy. Couple that with an attachment to our smartphones that borders on co-dependent, and it's no surprise to learn that travel apps are a hot commodity. Some of the best innovations in travel come in the form of apps. Staying in touch with people at home, travel planning, staying organized on the road, or connecting with other travelers? Not only is there an app for that, there are many apps for that. 

To help you sort through the plethora of what's out there, here are some travel-ready apps to make your vacation a blast. We've sourced suggestions from people who travel for a living and those who leave their local area only rarely, so no matter how often you jet-set, there is an app for you.

Read more: 12 Smart Gadgets You Didn't Know Existed

If your cell plan doesn't include international roaming, you can get slammed with steep fees for using mobile data outside your own country.

There are a few ways to get around roaming charges, including buying a local SIM card for the country you are traveling in, using a Wi-Fi stick , or investing in a dual SIM phone, like those from Samsung, Apple, or Google. One of the easiest and cheapest options though, is an eSIM app like Airalo . Airalo was one of the first in the eSIM game and continues to be popular with travelers. Fans of the app point to how easy it is to download and get started quickly, and how much it saves in fees. On the other hand, some users have noticed a discrepancy in how well it works in different countries. One reviewer on TrustPilot states "We do NOT recommend this plan given the extremely poor performance in Vietnam" despite noting excellent service in Hong Kong. 

Airalo is a paid service, available on the App Store and on Google Play.

Google Maps is often the default app travelers reach for when navigating new territory. It's a trusted resource for a lot of reasons, including the ease of finding reviews and info for even very small businesses. But it's not the only map app out there, nor is it the best in every situation. The main advantage of Maps.me over Google Maps is that it is based on user-generated information. Particularly for folks who are getting around on foot, this "boots on the ground" approach is excellent and more direct than reporting problems to Google Maps . It also means that if you find a cool place on your travels and want to make sure other travelers can find it, you can add it to a map.

Like Google Maps and other useful way-finding apps, you can download maps and bookmark points of interest for offline use, although the background information on locations is not as robust as on Google Maps. Maps.me also allows you to access various modes of transportation while offline, which Google doesn't. 

Maps.me is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Cash's position as king is increasingly precarious. On your travels, you'll find cashless options in places you might not expect. The mass availability of mobile payment platforms like Square means you may be able to whip out your phone or card at Swiss coffee carts or Mexican street vendors. Wise (formerly Transferwise) lets you move between currencies seamlessly. Wise lets you operate in 40 currencies, which is particularly handy if you are traveling to several different countries. They advertise charges that are less than the major banks. However, some users have complained about complications with money transfers, so be forewarned if you intend to use this app for sending money. 

Of note to travelers is the option to get an actual bank card that can function as an international debit card with a nominal conversion fee (not all bank cards can pay by debit in countries other than your home base.) Or, save a step and scan your phone to pay from your Wise account. 

Wise is available on the App Store and from Google Play. There is no charge to download the app, but fees are charged for some banking activities.

If you are going to be traveling from place to place on your vacation, you will want the Rome2Rio app on your phone. Enter your destination and departure location, and the app spits out the options and approximate costs for each leg of your journey. For instance, if you are in Edmonton, Canada, and want to get to the Thai island of Ko Yao Yai, the app will suggest six options, labeling the best, cheapest, and fastest combination of flight, minibus, and ferry. You can't purchase tickets through the app, although there are links to book accommodation that take you to Booking.com. Being able to purchase travel fares through the app would make things easier, especially if they were offered in a package, but the absence of that feature means you can investigate and compare prices from different booking operators , so we are putting it in the win column.

Rome2Rio is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Rick Steves Audio Europe

Rick Steves is recognized as a top voice in travel guides. His down-to-earth approach to travel has endeared multitudes of followers to him, spawning an industry of books, television shows, and a sprawling web presence that features how-to guides, articles, and an active travelers' forum. On top of all that, he has a free app for self-guided walking tours through many of Europe's top sights called Rick Steves Audio Europe . Reviewers of the app give it a high rating (4.7 on Google Play and 4.3 on the App Store) using superlatives like "This app is GOLD," and comparing the quality of the tours to paid audio tours. On the downside, it is difficult to sync the app on multiple devices, so if you are in a group you may all be at slightly different parts of the tour, which can be mildly annoying. There are a bunch of tour sites, with more added periodically.

The audio tours and accompanying maps are downloadable, so you don't need to worry about burning through mobile data or needing to rely on Wi-Fi. Rick Steve Audio Europe is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

How many trips come vividly back to life in your mind just by thinking about that one excellent bowl of Cacio e Pepe pasta or sun-drenched sip of a Paloma? Exploring a place through its flavors and discovering new spots to eat is a beloved part of travel. In Europe, TheFork (the French version is called LaForchette) is the go-to app for crowd-sourced restaurant reviews. Previously, the app also covered Australia, but at the start of 2024, it was announced they will be pulling out of Oz.

You can find Michelin-starred restaurants with months-long wait lists or little hole-in-the-wall spots by searching the name of the eating establishment, the city or neighborhood you want to eat in, or the kind of cuisine you are craving.

The app is worthy of its space on your phone just for the restaurant listings and reviews, but if you want to explore more of the capabilities, there are ways to expand its usefulness. You can make reservations, register to collect points, access discounts and specials at select spots, and pay through the app. TheFork is free to download and available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Looking for a little love on the road? The Fairytrail app might be the ticket to romance (or ROAMance) you are looking for. Aimed at digital nomads and van life devotees, the app is a nice addition to the dating lives of travelers of all stripes. Members are evaluated and assigned a fairytale character similar to enneagram-slash-Myers-Briggs personality types, which is a new and novel approach compared with other iPhone dating apps or Android dating apps .

Because the app is focused on people with nomadic lifestyles, matches are location-independent. The idea is that users of the app will be willing to travel to each other to meet and date. There is a setting that allows an extra layer of matching: dream places to visit. If you so choose, before chatting with a match you need to have an overlapping "bucket-list" destination. Previously, this was an unavoidable step but became an optional setting after it was changed in response to frustration expressed by reviewers. The app is being redesigned in 2024 and soliciting feedback from users. Stay tuned, it seems more happy endings are in store! Fairytrails is free to download with in-app purchases and is available from the App Store and from Google Play.

Price Scanner And Converter

A very unpleasant aspect of vacationing in another country is coming home to a shocking credit card bill. Part of the problem is the tendency of holidaymakers to spend like money isn't real, but the other problem is how difficult it is to calculate prices into your own currency. Sure, you can come up with shortcuts to do quick math, but that gives you an estimate rather than an exact cost. To help, there are many different currency converter apps out there, with features like real-time rate calculation and offline capability. The somewhat clunky-named Price Scanner and Converter takes it one step further by using your phone's camera to scan prices and display them automatically in your preferred currency (out of 150 global currencies.) New iPhone cameras also have a similar capability, but it isn't as seamless a process as using this app.

This price scanning app isn't presently available on Google Play, although there are similar apps to be found. The reviews are pretty overwhelmingly mediocre, so if you are on team Android, your best bet may be to download a regular currency converter and enter in prices the old-fashioned way.

Downloading the Price Scanner and Converter is free from the App Store.

Searching through your emails for confirmations and itineraries isn't an efficient way to access your travel information. And good luck if you have used your work email for some of your planning and your personal email for others. What if you are offline when you need to find your tour details? Nightmare fuel. Tripit has created a simple user experience, allowing you to forward all those endless travel planning emails to be arranged into an easily accessible itinerary in a single spot, which you can access from any of your devices.

Other features of this include the ability to load PDFs, QR codes, and other travel documents to your Tripit travel folder. There are helpful navigation tools, like airport maps, neighborhood safety ratings, and nearby places. You can share your travel plans and sync them to your calendar. For $49 a year (or a free 30-day trial) you can upgrade to Tripit Pro for enhanced travel aid, including notifications to help keep you on track and on time. 

Tripit is free to download from the App Store and from Google Play, and you can upgrade to the premium Tripit Pro on the Tripit website or in the app.

Mobile Passport Control

The latest app from U.S. Customs and Border Patrol goes by the wildly creative name, " Mobile Passport Control ." It's a no-nonsense app with a no-nonsense name that allows users to streamline the customs experience. Rather than filling out declarations forms, users enter their information into the app and send it to border officials so they can access it as soon as they get to customs. You can do this immediately upon arrival, say as your plane is taxiing to the gate.

The app is for United States citizens and Canadians with a B-1 or B-2 visitor visa who are entering the USA at one of 33 American airports, 11 preclearance sites, and four seaports. It works in tandem with your passport, but it doesn't replace it.

As a bonus, some sites allow those with the Mobile Passport Control app to use their own (almost always shorter!) line or expedited Global Entry lines at passport control. You can enter family members on the same app and there is no approval process, just download and go.

A previous iteration of the app had a premium, paid version, but this is no longer the case. The app is free on the App Store and Google Play.

Read the original article on SlashGear .