Taipei Transportation Guide | MRT, Airport Transfers, and Getting Around the City

Mar 1
5 min read

Traveling in Taipei is easier than you might think. With a well-developed public transportation network, visitors can conveniently explore the city without the need for a car. Taipei's transportation system includes the MRT, city buses, Taiwan Railways, High Speed Rail, and the Airport MRT, which provides direct access to and from Taoyuan International Airport.

Whether you're visiting Taipei for the first time or planning an independent trip, understanding these essential transportation options will help you navigate the city with ease and make your journey more enjoyable.

Taipei MRT Guide | Easily Navigate the Metro with Color-Coded Lines

Taipei's MRT system is easier to understand than it may seem. The network is organized by color-coded lines, making it simple for travelers to navigate the city. By following the route map and line colors, you can quickly understand how the system works and reach most major attractions throughout Taipei and New Taipei City with ease.

The main Taipei MRT lines currently include:

Red Line (Tamsui–Xinyi Line): Running from Tamsui in the north to Xiangshan in the south, this line connects popular areas such as Shilin, Taipei Main Station, and the Xinyi District. It is one of the most frequently used lines for sightseeing.
Blue Line (Bannan Line): Stretching from Ximending and Taipei Main Station through the Eastern District to Nangang, this is one of the busiest and most important MRT lines in Taipei.
Green Line (Songshan–Xindian Line): Connecting Songshan, Zhongshan, Guting, Gongguan, and Xindian, this line is ideal for shopping, visiting night markets, and experiencing local life.
Orange Line (Zhonghe–Xinlu Line): Serving Zhonghe, Sanchong, Xinzhuang, and Luzhou, this line is commonly used for traveling between Taipei and various districts of New Taipei City.
Brown Line (Wenhu Line): Running from Taipei Zoo to Neihu and Nangang, this elevated MRT line offers open views of the city along the route.
Yellow Line (Circular Line): Connecting multiple districts throughout New Taipei City, this line makes transfers more convenient without requiring passengers to travel through central Taipei.

In addition to the main MRT lines, the map also includes several branch and specialty routes:

Xinbeitou Branch Line: Provides direct access to the Beitou Hot Spring Area and is a popular route for visitors exploring northern Taipei.
Xiaobitan Branch Line: A short branch line serving the Xindian area.
Airport MRT (Purple Line): Connects Taoyuan International Airport with Taipei Main Station, making it one of the most important transportation routes for international travelers.
Danhai Light Rail (V Line) and Ankeng Light Rail (K Line): Light rail systems that primarily serve various districts in New Taipei City.
Maokong Gondola: Accessible via Taipei Zoo Station, offering a scenic ride into the Maokong mountain area.

Overall, the Red Line, Blue Line, and Green Line are the routes most commonly used by travelers, as they provide access to many of Taipei’s most popular attractions. Simply remember to follow the line color and check the direction of the terminal station, and navigating the Taipei MRT system will be easy and straightforward.

Transportation from Taoyuan (TPE) Airport to Taipei City

If you are traveling between Taoyuan International Airport and Taipei City, the Airport MRT is one of the most convenient transportation options. By taking either the Express Train or the Commuter Train, you can reach Taipei Main Station in approximately 35–40 minutes. With its fast travel time and reliable service, it has become the preferred choice for many independent travelers.

The Airport MRT operates two types of trains:

Express Train (Purple): Stops at fewer stations and offers a faster journey, making it ideal for travelers with limited time or those carrying larger amounts of luggage.
Commuter Train (Blue): Stops at every station along the route and runs more frequently, while maintaining the same fare as the Express Train.

After arriving at Taipei Main Station, you can easily transfer to the Taipei MRT and travel to destinations throughout the city. Whether you're heading to Ximending, the Xinyi District, or other popular attractions, getting around is both convenient and efficient.

For first-time visitors to Taipei, the Airport MRT is one of the easiest and most stress-free transportation options, thanks to its straightforward route and clear signage.

Getting Around Taipei | Easy Ways to Explore the City

In addition to the MRT, there are several other transportation options available for getting around Taipei:

Bus: An extensive network that provides access to areas not directly served by the MRT.
YouBike: Ideal for short-distance travel and exploring the city at a leisurely pace.
Taxi: Convenient, easy to find, and reasonably priced.

Essential for Exploring Taipei | Your Complete Guide to Buying and Using an EasyCard

When traveling in Taipei, having an EasyCard is almost essential. Whether you're taking the MRT, riding a bus, or making purchases at convenience stores, you can simply tap your card to pay. It not only saves time by eliminating the need to purchase tickets for each trip, but also makes your entire journey more convenient and seamless.

Purchasing an EasyCard is simple and convenient. The easiest place to get one is at a convenience store. Major chains such as 7-ELEVEN, FamilyMart, Hi-Life, and OK Mart sell EasyCards at the checkout counter, and some stores may also offer special edition or collaboration designs. EasyCards can also be purchased at MRT station service counters, airports, and Airport MRT stations.

Once you have purchased your card, it can be topped up and used immediately. Common top-up options include convenience store counters and MRT station recharge machines. Simply specify the amount you would like to add or follow the instructions on the machine to complete the process.

For independent travelers, an EasyCard is one of the most convenient tools for getting around Taipei, as it can be used for most public transportation services as well as many everyday purchases.

Convenience Store Kiosks | Your One-Stop Solution for Travel and Transportation Needs

In addition to purchasing an EasyCard at convenience stores, the self-service kiosks found inside many stores are also incredibly useful travel tools. With just a few simple steps, travelers can access a variety of transportation-related services, making it easier to get around and plan their journey.

1. Book a Taxi: Simply enter your destination or pickup location to reserve a taxi, making it a convenient option when you need transportation on short notice.

2. Purchase High Speed Rail and Taiwan Railways Tickets: Book your tickets directly through the kiosk without having to queue at the station, making travel planning more convenient and efficient.

3. Check Your EasyCard Balance: Easily check your remaining balance at any time to ensure you have sufficient credit before boarding public transportation.

For independent travelers, convenience stores are more than just places to buy snacks and daily essentials—they also function as convenient service hubs. Even without detailed plans in advance, travelers can use the in-store kiosks to quickly manage transportation and ticketing needs, making their journey more flexible, convenient, and worry-free.

Getting Around from Finders Hotel Taipei Fuqian | Just a 5-Minute Walk to the MRT

From Finders Hotel Taipei Fuqian, it takes only about 5 minutes on foot to reach NTU Hospital MRT Station (Red Line). Along the way, you can stroll through 228 Peace Memorial Park, enjoying its lush greenery and peaceful surroundings. The route is straightforward and convenient, offering a pleasant opportunity to experience a relaxing side of the city.

The hotel is also located close to Taipei Main Station, making it easy to transfer to the MRT and travel to popular destinations such as Ximending, the Xinyi District, and many other attractions throughout Taipei.

Navigate Taipei with Ease and Start Your Journey

Taipei boasts a convenient and well-developed transportation system, making it easy to explore the city once you're familiar with the MRT and other major transit options. From bustling shopping districts to cultural landmarks, most destinations can be reached quickly and efficiently through the city's extensive transportation network.

Keep your travels simple by starting with transportation, and you'll be able to enjoy Taipei with greater ease, comfort, and freedom.