How to Get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei: MRT, Bus, Taxi, Uber, and Transfer Costs

One of the first things to plan before visiting Taipei is how to get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei city center. Even if your flights and accommodation are already booked, arriving without a transportation plan can cost you valuable time and energy at the beginning of your trip.

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport is approximately 40 kilometers from central Taipei. Travelers can choose between the Airport MRT, airport bus, taxi, Uber, and a pre-booked private airport transfer.

For most travelers, the Taoyuan Airport MRT Express offers the best balance of price, speed, and reliability. However, a taxi, Uber, or private transfer may be more convenient if you arrive late at night, travel with children or older family members, or carry several large suitcases.

Transportation fares, schedules, pickup locations, and operating conditions can change. Check the latest information through the relevant operator or transportation app shortly before your trip.

Taoyuan Airport to Taipei Transportation Comparison

The Airport MRT Express costs NT$160 for a one-way journey to Taipei Main Station. The trip usually takes approximately 35 minutes from Terminal 1 and 39 minutes from Terminal 2.

The commuter train travels along the same line but stops at more stations. Allow approximately 50 to 55 minutes to reach Taipei Main Station.

Buses, taxis, Uber vehicles, and private transfers use the highway, so actual travel times depend on traffic. Journeys can take longer during weekday rush hour, weekends, public holidays, and periods of heavy rain.

Taxi and Uber prices also vary according to the destination, traffic, time of day, and vehicle type. Uber may apply higher dynamic pricing when demand is strong, so check the estimated fare in the app before confirming your ride.

Taoyuan Airport MRT: The Best Option for Most Travelers

For most visitors, the Taoyuan Airport MRT is the easiest and most predictable way to travel from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei.

It is significantly cheaper than taking a taxi or Uber, and it is not affected by road congestion. This makes it particularly useful during weekday rush hours when highways approaching Taipei can become busy.

Passengers arriving at Terminal 1 should use Airport Terminal 1 Station, coded A12. Passengers arriving at Terminal 2 should use Airport Terminal 2 Station, coded A13.

After collecting your luggage and passing through customs, follow the signs for “Airport MRT” or “機場捷運.” Signs are clearly displayed throughout both terminals.

Express Train vs. Commuter Train

The Taoyuan Airport MRT operates both express and commuter trains.

Express trains make fewer stops and provide the fastest journey to Taipei Main Station. Major express stops include:

• A13 Airport Terminal 2
• A12 Airport Terminal 1
• A8 Chang Gung Memorial Hospital
• A3 New Taipei Industrial Park
• A1 Taipei Main Station

Commuter trains stop at every station, so the journey takes longer. They can still be useful if your destination is near an intermediate station or if the next express train has a long wait.

If you are traveling directly to Taipei Main Station, look for “Express” or “直達車” on the platform information screen.

Both services reach central Taipei, but a commuter train can add approximately 15 to 20 minutes to the journey.

Airport MRT trains include luggage storage areas. However, these spaces may become crowded during busy travel periods. After boarding, place your suitcase securely in the luggage area or keep it positioned so that it does not block the aisle.

How to Buy an Airport MRT Ticket

There are several ways to pay for the Taoyuan Airport MRT:

• Buy a single-journey token from a ticket machine
• Use an EasyCard or iPASS
• Use a supported contactless payment card or mobile wallet
• Purchase a QR ticket through a travel booking platform
• Buy a combined Airport MRT and Taipei Metro pass

If you plan to use Taipei’s metro and public buses frequently, purchasing an EasyCard at the airport can be convenient. You can add credit to the card and use it for most public transportation during your stay.

A combined pass may offer better value for travelers who expect to use the Taipei Metro extensively. A package containing an Airport MRT round trip and a 48-hour Taipei Metro pass is generally priced at NT$520, while the version with a 72-hour metro pass is generally NT$600.

Before buying a combined ticket, estimate how often you will use the Taipei Metro. If your hotel is centrally located and much of your itinerary can be completed on foot, separate Airport MRT tickets and an EasyCard may cost less.

Getting from Taipei Main Station to Your Hotel

The Airport MRT arrives at A1 Taipei Main Station.

From here, you can connect to the Taipei Metro Red Line, Blue Line, Taiwan Railways, Taiwan High Speed Rail, local buses, taxis, and Uber.

Taipei Main Station is a large transportation complex with long underground corridors. First-time visitors should allow an additional 10 to 20 minutes for walking and finding the correct line or exit.

Check which station exit is closest to your hotel before arriving. Choosing the wrong exit can add a considerable walk, especially when carrying luggage.

Getting to Ximending

Ximending is one of Taipei’s most popular areas for first-time visitors.

From Taipei Main Station, take the Taipei Metro Blue Line for one stop to Ximen Station. From there, walk to your hotel using the nearest recommended exit.

If you have a large suitcase or your hotel is located away from Ximen Station, you can take a taxi or Uber from Taipei Main Station.

A cost-effective alternative is to use the Airport MRT to reach central Taipei and then complete the final short distance by car. This is usually much cheaper than taking a taxi or Uber directly from the airport.

Getting to Zhongshan or Shuanglian

Hotels in Zhongshan or Shuanglian are accessible via the Taipei Metro Red Line.

If your accommodation is near a metro exit, transferring at Taipei Main Station is straightforward. However, a short taxi or Uber ride may be more comfortable if you have several suitcases, travel with young children, or are not comfortable walking through a large station.

When requesting an Uber near Taipei Main Station, check the pickup point carefully. The station has numerous exits and surrounding roads, so your driver could have difficulty finding you if the pickup location is imprecise.

Choose a clearly identifiable pickup area, such as a hotel entrance or another accessible roadside location.

Getting to Taipei 101 or Xinyi District

Taipei 101 and Xinyi District can be reached by transferring to the Taipei Metro Red Line at Taipei Main Station.

The public transportation route is economical, but the transfer can feel tiring after a long flight. Travelers with children, older family members, or multiple large suitcases may prefer a taxi, Uber, or private airport transfer.

Xinyi District is farther from Taoyuan Airport than Taipei Main Station or Ximending. Car fares may therefore be higher, especially during periods of heavy traffic.

Kuo-Kuang Bus 1819: A Budget-Friendly Alternative

Kuo-Kuang Bus 1819 is one of the main airport bus routes connecting Taoyuan Airport with Taipei Bus Station.

Under normal traffic conditions, the journey may take approximately 55 minutes. During rush hour or periods of congestion, it can take 70 to 80 minutes or longer.

At Terminal 1, the airport bus area is located on the B1 level of the arrivals area. At Terminal 2, follow the airport signs directing passengers to the bus boarding area outside the arrivals level.

Ticket counters and route information are available near the bus platforms.

The fare for Bus 1819 is generally around NT$135 to NT$145, depending on the current ticketing policy and sales method. Check the displayed fare and departure schedule at the airport before purchasing your ticket.

Taipei Bus Station is connected to the wider Taipei Main Station transportation complex, but the airport bus does not arrive at the same platform as the Airport MRT. Allow extra walking time if you need to transfer to the Taipei Metro or continue to a hotel on foot.

Airport coaches usually provide luggage storage beneath the passenger compartment, making the bus a practical option for travelers carrying large suitcases.

The main disadvantage is that buses are affected by road traffic. If reaching Taipei at a particular time is important, the Airport MRT is generally more predictable.

Taking a Taxi from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei

An airport taxi is a convenient choice for travelers who value door-to-door transportation.

Official taxi ranks are located outside the arrivals areas of both terminals. Airport taxis normally use a meter, although the final amount may also include highway tolls or applicable surcharges.

A taxi from Taoyuan Airport to central Taipei generally costs approximately NT$1,000 to NT$1,500. The final fare depends on the destination, traffic, route, and travel time.

Hotels near Taipei Main Station or Ximending may fall toward the lower end of the range. Destinations in Xinyi District, including the Taipei 101 area, may cost more because they are farther from the airport.

Before leaving the airport, confirm the following:

• Whether the fare will be metered
• Whether highway tolls are included
• Whether a late-night surcharge applies
• Whether credit card payment is available
• Whether the vehicle can accommodate all passengers and luggage

A taxi is expensive for a solo traveler compared with the Airport MRT. However, it can be reasonable for a group of three or four people sharing the total fare.

Luggage capacity is another important consideration. A standard sedan may not have enough trunk space for several large suitcases. Request a larger taxi or van if your group carries bulky luggage.

Save your hotel’s name and address in Traditional Chinese so that you can show the information to the driver if necessary.

Taking Uber from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei

Uber is a convenient option for travelers who prefer to see an estimated fare before booking.

You can enter your hotel address in the app, select an available vehicle, view the driver’s information, and pay through a registered payment method. This reduces the need to explain your destination verbally.

The estimated Uber fare from Taoyuan Airport to central Taipei is generally around NT$1,000 to NT$1,600. The actual amount depends on your destination, vehicle type, traffic conditions, demand, and pickup time.

During busy arrival periods, Uber’s dynamic pricing can make the fare more expensive than an official taxi. When demand is low, the price may be similar to or slightly lower than a taxi.

How to Request an Uber at Taoyuan Airport

Do not request a vehicle immediately after the aircraft lands.

First, complete immigration, collect your luggage, pass through customs, and make sure your mobile data connection is working. Requesting too early can result in waiting charges or a cancellation if the driver arrives before you reach the pickup area.

Use the following process:

1. Open the Uber app after completing arrival procedures.
2. Enter your Taipei hotel or accommodation address.
3. Compare the available vehicle types and estimated fares.
4. Confirm that the vehicle is large enough for your passengers and luggage.
5. Select the correct airport terminal.
6. Follow the app’s instructions to the designated pickup area.
7. Confirm the license plate and driver details before entering the vehicle.

Terminal selection is particularly important. If you accidentally select Terminal 1 while waiting at Terminal 2, the driver may be sent to the wrong part of the airport.

Airport ride pickups may use designated areas rather than the regular taxi queue. Always follow the current pickup instructions displayed in the app.

Important Uber Tips

Uber’s main advantage is that the app displays an estimated price and sends your destination directly to the driver.

However, an estimated fare is not always guaranteed to be identical to the final amount. A substantial route change, additional waiting time, or adjustments to the journey may affect the total.

Before booking, check:

• Whether the estimated fare is significantly higher than a taxi
• Whether tolls and airport-related charges are included
• Whether the selected vehicle can accommodate all luggage
• Whether you need to walk to a designated pickup area
• Whether a cancellation fee applies
• Whether your registered card supports international payments

If you have three or more large suitcases, a standard vehicle may not provide enough luggage space. Select a larger vehicle where available, or arrange a private transfer with confirmed luggage capacity.

Uber vs. Taxi at Taoyuan Airport

A taxi can usually be taken directly from the official taxi rank. This is useful if you want to leave immediately without installing an app or looking for a designated rideshare pickup point.

Uber allows you to view the estimated fare, driver details, and vehicle information before the journey. It is also convenient for travelers who prefer app-based payment or do not want to explain their hotel address.

Choose based on these priorities:

• Choose a taxi if you want to leave from the official rank immediately.
• Choose Uber if you prefer app payment and an upfront fare estimate.
• Compare the taxi option if Uber is applying high dynamic pricing.
• Choose a private transfer if you need a guaranteed large vehicle.
• Choose the Airport MRT if you are traveling alone or as a couple during operating hours.

Checking the Uber fare shortly before leaving the arrivals hall helps you compare real-time pricing with the typical taxi range.

Private Airport Transfers for Families and Groups

A private airport transfer provides a pre-arranged vehicle and driver for transportation from Taoyuan Airport to your accommodation.

It may cost slightly more than a taxi or Uber, but it provides more certainty about vehicle size, pickup arrangements, and the expected price.

A private transfer is particularly useful for:

• Families traveling with children and a stroller
• Travelers accompanying older relatives
• Groups with three or more large suitcases
• Late-night or early-morning arrivals
• Travelers staying far from Taipei Main Station
• Groups of five or more passengers
• Anyone requiring a child seat or larger vehicle

Do not compare services using the initial advertised price alone. Check whether the total includes:

• Late-night surcharges
• Airport parking charges
• Highway tolls
• Flight delay monitoring
• Meet-and-greet service
• Free waiting time
• Additional luggage fees
• Child seat fees

Confirm whether free waiting time begins at the scheduled arrival time or the actual flight arrival time. A service that monitors flight delays is preferable when arriving on an international flight.

Uber is requested in real time after arrival, while a private airport transfer is arranged in advance. If you need a specific vehicle size, child seat, or assistance for an older family member, a pre-booked transfer usually provides greater certainty.

Late-Night Transportation from Taoyuan Airport

Late-night travelers should plan transportation based on the time they are likely to exit the arrivals hall, not the aircraft’s scheduled landing time.

Immigration, baggage collection, and customs can take 40 minutes or longer. A flight landing at 10:30 p.m. does not necessarily leave enough time to reach the Airport MRT platform before the final train.

The Taoyuan Airport MRT does not operate 24 hours a day. The last departure depends on the terminal, direction, and train service.

Express trains may finish before the final commuter service, so travelers arriving late should check both options. Review the timetable for A12 Terminal 1 or A13 Terminal 2 shortly before traveling.

If catching the final train appears uncertain, compare the alternatives in this order:

1. Check whether an airport bus is operating after your expected arrival time.
2. Review the typical airport taxi fare for your destination.
3. Open the Uber app and check the real-time fare and waiting time.
4. Compare a pre-booked transfer, including any late-night surcharge.
5. Divide the total vehicle cost by the number of passengers.

Uber availability can be lower late at night, and dynamic pricing may increase when several flights arrive at the same time.

If Uber prices are unexpectedly high, compare the official taxi rank. Families traveling with children or older relatives may prefer to arrange a private transfer rather than compare transport options after a late-night arrival.

Best Transportation by Travel Situation

Solo Travelers and Couples

If you have manageable luggage and arrive during operating hours, the Airport MRT Express is usually the most economical option.

After reaching Taipei Main Station, continue by metro, taxi, or Uber for the final part of the journey.

Families with Children or Older Travelers

A taxi, Uber, or private airport transfer reduces the need to walk through long station corridors or manage luggage during transfers.

For families requiring a child seat or a guaranteed large vehicle, a pre-booked transfer is generally more reliable than requesting a vehicle after arrival.

Travelers Staying in Ximending

Use the Airport MRT to Taipei Main Station and transfer to the Blue Line for one stop to Ximen Station.

If you have heavy luggage, take a taxi or Uber from Taipei Main Station, or compare the price of a direct airport transfer.

Some streets in central Ximending can become crowded or have limited vehicle access. Check whether your hotel allows vehicles to stop directly at the entrance.

Travelers Staying Near Taipei Main Station

The Airport MRT Express is normally the most convenient option.

Kuo-Kuang Bus 1819 can also be practical if your accommodation is close to Taipei Bus Station and the bus schedule matches your arrival time.

For a group of four carrying several suitcases, compare the combined Airport MRT fare with the total price of a taxi or Uber. The car option may offer reasonable value once the fare is divided among passengers.

Travelers Staying Near Taipei 101 or in Xinyi District

Travelers with light luggage can take the Airport MRT to Taipei Main Station and transfer to the Red Line.

If you prefer to avoid transfers, compare an airport taxi, Uber, and a private transfer. Because Xinyi District is farther from Taoyuan Airport, check both the estimated price and the expected journey time.

Late-Night Arrivals

Check the Airport MRT timetable using the time you expect to finish immigration and luggage collection.

If the final train is not practical, compare the available airport bus, official taxi, Uber, and private transfer options.

Uber provides a useful real-time fare estimate, but prices and waiting times can vary late at night. A pre-booked transfer is more predictable when transportation must be guaranteed.

Taoyuan Airport to Taipei: Final Summary

For most travelers, the Airport MRT Express is the best way to get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei. It costs NT$160 to Taipei Main Station, takes approximately 35 to 39 minutes, and avoids highway traffic.

Kuo-Kuang Bus 1819 is a budget-friendly alternative for travelers staying near Taipei Bus Station. However, its travel time is less predictable because of traffic.

A taxi offers immediate door-to-door transportation from the official airport taxi rank. Uber provides app-based payment, driver information, and an estimated fare before booking. Both can be practical for groups of three or four or for travelers carrying heavy luggage.

A private airport transfer is usually the most predictable option for families, larger groups, travelers requiring a child seat, and passengers arriving late at night.

Use these five factors to choose the right transportation:

• Your expected time of leaving the arrivals hall
• The number of people traveling together
• The number and size of your suitcases
• The exact location of your Taipei accommodation
• Whether you prefer a fixed price or a real-time variable fare

Solo travelers and couples arriving during Airport MRT operating hours will usually save money by taking the train.

Groups of three or four should compare the total taxi and Uber fare rather than focusing only on the per-person Airport MRT price. Families and larger groups should also consider vehicle size, free waiting time, tolls, child seat availability, and late-night charges before booking a private transfer.

The cheapest choice is not always the most practical. Selecting transportation that matches your arrival time, luggage, group size, and hotel location can save time and make the first day of your Taipei trip considerably easier