Travelers arriving in Taiwan usually land at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), the country’s busiest international hub located about 40 kilometers from Taipei. For first-time visitors, the big question is: How do you get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei quickly, comfortably, and without stress? This Taoyuan Airport arrival guide will walk you through everything you need to know.
In this 2025 guide, we break down every transportation option—Taoyuan Airport MRT, bus, taxi, high-speed rail (HSR), and private transfers such as tripool—so you can decide which works best for your travel style, budget, and schedule.
Don’t hesitate!
tripool serviceHow to Get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei by MRT
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The Taoyuan Airport MRT is one of the most popular and reliable ways to get from the airport to Taipei. Opened in 2017, it connects both airport terminals directly to Taipei Main Station, the city’s largest transport hub. For travelers who value speed, affordability, and simplicity, the MRT is often the top choice.
Travel Time and Cost
- Express Line: 35–40 minutes
- Commuter Line: 50–60 minutes
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Fare: NT$150 (approx. USD $5)
📌 Tips for Using the MRT:
- Tickets can be purchased at automatic vending machines or service counters in both terminals.
- Travelers using EasyCard or iPASS (Taiwan’s contactless travel cards) can tap directly at the gates.
- The last train runs between around 11:00 p.m. and 11:40 p.m., depending on the train type and station, making them accessible for most flight schedules.
- Free Wi-Fi is available on board, perfect for checking directions before you reach Taipei.
Source: Taoyuan Metro Official Website
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Fast and punctual, unaffected by traffic.
- Affordable compared to taxis or private transfers.
- Direct access to Taipei Main Station, where you can connect to MRT, HSR, or city buses.
Cons:
- Luggage space is limited; not ideal if you’re carrying multiple large suitcases.
- If your hotel is not near Taipei Main Station, you may still need to transfer.
👉 Best for: Solo travelers, backpackers, and budget-conscious tourists who don’t mind a short transfer after arrival.
How to Get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei by Bus
For travelers seeking a budget-friendly but comfortable option, the airport bus network is an excellent alternative. Unlike the MRT, buses offer direct routes to various districts across Taipei—making them convenient if your accommodation isn’t near Taipei Main Station.
Popular Bus Routes and Duration
- Kuo-Kuang 1819: Airport → Taipei Main Station (55–65 minutes, operates 24 hours)
- CitiAir Bus 1960: Airport → Xinyi District (70–80 minutes, ideal for Taipei 101 hotels)
- CitiAir Bus 1961: Airport → Songshan (70–90 minutes)
📌 Buses depart every 15–20 minutes, and tickets can be purchased at counters inside the airport arrival hall. Luggage storage is provided under the bus, so you can travel without hassle.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Direct service to multiple Taipei districts (Ximending, Xinyi, Songshan, etc.)
- Comfortable reclining seats and air-conditioning.
- Runs late into the night, making it suitable for late arrivals.
Cons:
- Travel time depends on road traffic, especially during rush hours.
- Slightly slower than the MRT for central Taipei.
👉 Best for: Budget travelers, or anyone staying in districts not directly connected by MRT (e.g., Xinyi near Taipei 101).
How to Get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei by Taxi
If convenience is your top priority, taxis are a straightforward choice. Available 24/7 outside both terminals, taxis are especially useful for late-night arrivals or travelers with heavy luggage.
Travel Time and Cost
- Duration: 40–60 minutes (depending on traffic)
- Fare: NT$1,200–1,500 (USD $38–48)
📌 The fare is metered, and additional surcharges may apply for highway tolls or late-night rides.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Door-to-door service—no need to transfer.
- Available anytime, even after MRT or bus services stop running.
- Comfortable for families or those with multiple suitcases.
Cons:
- Significantly more expensive than public transport.
- Travel time is highly affected by traffic congestion.
👉 Best for: Business travelers, families with kids, or those arriving late at night when public transport is unavailable.
How to Get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei with Tripool or Private Transfers
For a stress-free and pre-arranged transfer, private car services such as Tripool offer the perfect balance between comfort and affordability. Unlike taxis, these services are booked in advance, ensuring a smoother experience upon arrival.
Why Choose Tripool?
- Fixed and transparent pricing—no surprises from traffic jams.
- English-speaking professional drivers who can assist international travelers.
- Door-to-door service—perfect if your hotel is outside the city center.
- Spacious vehicles—ideal for families, groups, or travelers with large luggage.
Travel Time and Cost
- Duration: 40–60 minutes
- Price: NT$1,000–1,200 (USD $32–38) per ride
- Cost-effective for groups of 3–6 people (cheaper than multiple MRT or bus tickets combined).
👉 Best for: Families, small groups, or anyone looking for a hassle-free transfer with guaranteed comfort.
Further Reading:
2025 Private Airport Transfer Guide: Pricing, Carpool Savings & 15 FAQs for First-Time Travelers
How to Get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei by High-Speed Rail (HSR)
The Taiwan High-Speed Rail (HSR) is suitable for travelers who want to head directly to central and southern Taiwan after landing. To take the HSR, travelers must first go from the airport to Taoyuan HSR Station (via shuttle bus or MRT), then ride the train to Taipei.
Travel Time and Cost
- Airport → Taoyuan HSR Station: 15–20 minutes
- HSR → Taipei: 20 minutes
- Total Travel Time: 40–50 minutes including transfers
- Fare: NT$150 (USD $5)
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely fast once on board.
- Comfortable, spacious seats with luggage racks.
Cons:
- Requires a transfer, adding extra steps.
- Not ideal if carrying heavy luggage.
👉 Best for: Travelers who plan to continue southward (to Taichung, Tainan, or Kaohsiung) immediately after landing.
Comparison Table – Best Ways to Get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei
With so many options available, it can be tricky to decide which form of transportation from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei suits you best. Some travelers value speed above all else, while others may prioritize budget, luggage convenience, or door-to-door service. To help you quickly compare your choices, here’s a simplified table that highlights the travel time, cost, and key notes for each option.
| Option | Time | Cost | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| MRT (Express) | 35–40 min | NT$150 (~US$5) | Fast, cheap, direct to Taipei Main Station |
| Bus | 55–90 min | NT$150–160 (~US$5) | Direct to several districts, but slower in traffic |
| Taxi | 40–60 min | NT$1,200–1,500 (~US$38–48) | 24/7, door-to-door, but pricey |
| Tripool / Private Transfer | 40–60 min | NT$1,000–1,200 (~US$32–38) | Pre-booked, fixed price, ideal for families & groups |
| HSR | 40–50 min (with transfer) | NT$150 (~US$5) | Best if traveling beyond Taipei (Taichung, Tainan, Kaohsiung) |
As you can see, there’s no single “best” way to reach Taipei—it really depends on your travel style, budget, and schedule. If you’re a solo backpacker on a tight budget, the MRT is unbeatable. Families or groups, on the other hand, often find Tripool private transfers more comfortable and cost-effective. Meanwhile, business travelers or those arriving at odd hours may prefer the reliability of taxis. Use this table as a quick guide to match your needs with the right option.
FAQs About Getting from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei
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Q: What’s the fastest option?
The Airport MRT Express Line is the fastest way to reach central Taipei, taking only about 35 minutes to Taipei Main Station. It runs frequently and is rarely affected by traffic, making it ideal for travelers who want to get into the city quickly after a long flight.
Q: What’s the cheapest option?
Both the Airport MRT and airport buses cost around NT$150–160 (about US$5), making them the most budget-friendly choices. The MRT is faster, but buses may be more convenient if your hotel is in areas like Xinyi District or Songshan since they provide direct access without extra transfers.
Q: Which is best for families with kids?
Families traveling with children often find Tripool private transfers the most convenient option. With door-to-door service, spacious vehicles, and no need to worry about handling strollers or multiple suitcases on public transport, Tripool makes the arrival process smoother and less stressful for parents.
Q: Do taxis accept credit cards?
While some taxis in Taiwan accept credit cards, the majority still prefer cash in New Taiwan Dollars (NTD). It’s always safer to carry cash for your taxi ride. If you want guaranteed card payments, private transfer services like Tripool or ride-hailing apps are better alternatives.
Q: Is the MRT suitable if I have a lot of luggage?
The MRT does allow luggage on board, but space is limited, especially during peak hours. If you’re traveling with one or two medium suitcases, it’s manageable. However, for travelers with multiple large bags or sports equipment, a taxi or private transfer is much more comfortable.
Q: What’s the best option for late-night arrivals?
Since the Airport MRT stops around 11:00 PM, the most reliable late night airport transportation Taiwan offers includes 24-hour buses like Kuo-Kuang 1819, taxis available outside the terminal, or a pre-booked Tripool private transfer for guaranteed convenience.
Q: Can I use an EasyCard or iPASS to pay for transportation?
Yes, both the EasyCard and iPASS are widely accepted on the MRT, buses, and even some airport shuttles. These contactless smartcards make traveling around Taipei seamless, as you can also use them on the city MRT, buses, YouBikes, and even in convenience stores. It’s highly recommended to purchase one at the airport upon arrival.
Q: Which option is best if I’m staying outside Taipei?
If your destination is outside Taipei, such as Taichung, Tainan, or Kaohsiung, taking the High-Speed Rail (HSR) is the best option. You’ll first transfer from the airport to Taoyuan HSR Station by shuttle bus or MRT, then board a high-speed train southward. This saves time compared to going into Taipei first and is especially convenient if you’re heading directly to another city.
RTR Editor’s Picks – Getting from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei
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At Round Taiwan Round (RTR), we’ve helped thousands of international travelers make this journey, and here’s our honest take:
- Best for solo travelers & backpackers: MRT — fast, cheap, and easy.
- Best for families & groups: Tripool — no stress, fixed price, and door-to-door service.
- Best for district-specific access: Bus — direct routes to Xinyi, Songshan, and more.
- Best for onward travel beyond Taipei: HSR — perfect if you’re heading to Taichung, Tainan, or Kaohsiung.
While the MRT is generally the most reliable, the “best” choice depends on your needs—budget, group size, luggage, and destination. The good news is that Taiwan’s transportation system is well-organized, traveler-friendly, and affordable. No matter which option you pick, your journey from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei will be a smooth start to your Taiwan adventure.
