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Whether you're arriving in Taiwan for the first time or returning for another visit, your journey will likely begin at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)—Taiwan’s largest and busiest airport.



Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

Located about 40 kilometers west of Taipei City, TPE handles the majority of international flights to and from Taiwan and is a major hub in East Asia. Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) opened in 1979 and replaced the older Songshan Airport for most international flights. It currently operates with two main terminals (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2) and continues to expand with the construction of Terminal 3, expected to open in the near future.

This comprehensive travel guide will walk you through everything you need to know about navigating Taoyuan Airport, including terminal information, airport facilities, transportation options to Taipei, SIM card services, and helpful tips for arrivals, departures, and transits.

As Taiwan’s primary international air hub, TPE services over 40 million passengers annually and is home to Taiwan’s two major airlines: China Airlines and EVA Air.

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Terminal Breakdown: Terminal 1 vs. Terminal 2


Terminal 1 (T1)

Hosts a mix of low-cost carriers and international airlines such as Scoot, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, and some flights by China Airlines.

Renovated in recent years, now features modern interiors, clear signage, and upgraded immigration and baggage claim facilities.

Arrival at Taoyuan International Airport (T1)

Terminal 2 (T2)

Services premium carriers such as EVA Air, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, ANA, and Japan Airlines.

Larger and more spacious than T1, with enhanced amenities, themed seating areas, wider food selections, and upgraded duty-free shopping.

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Terminal 2 Check-in Hall

Tip: Use the free Skytrain or shuttle buses (available both landside and airside) to travel between terminals quickly and easily.




How to Get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei City

Getting from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei is simple, with several convenient and budget-friendly options available to travelers.

Taoyuan Airport MRT A12 Station

1. Taoyuan Airport MRT (Metro)


Fastest and most efficient way to get to downtown Taipei.

Express service (purple line) reaches Taipei Main Station in ~35–38 minutes.

Commuter service (blue line) makes all stops and takes about 50 minutes.

Fare: NT$150 (approx. USD 5). Pay cashless with an EasyCard to skip the line.

Hours: ~6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

MRT stations are located in the B2 level of both terminals.

✅ Why Choose This: Clean, punctual, air-conditioned, with luggage racks and English announcements.



Airport Buses


Operate 24/7 and offer direct routes to Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung, and other major cities.

Popular operators: Kuo-Kuang, CitiAir, Ubus.

Fare to Taipei: NT$120–150, depending on the route. You can also pay cashless with an EasyCard.

Travel time: 50 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic.

For other destinations such as Taichung and Kaohsiung, visit my Taoyuan International Airport Transfer Guide


3. Taxis


Queue at official taxi stands outside both terminals.

Fixed meter rate with airport surcharge.

Fare to Taipei: NT$1,000–1,300 (~USD 30–40).

Available 24/7.


4. Ride-Hailing and Private Transfers


Uber is widely used in Taiwan.

You can also pre-book private shuttles or hotel pickups online. You can book a private car service through platforms like Klook, KKDay, or hotel concierge desks.

Ideal for families or groups with lots of luggage.




Connectivity: SIM Cards, Wi-Fi, and Pocket Wi-Fi Rental

Staying connected in Taiwan is easy, especially at the airport.


SIM Card & Pocket Wi-Fi Booths


Available in the Arrival Halls of both terminals.

Choose from top telecom providers: Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, FarEasTone.

Affordable prepaid packages with data, texts, and call minutes (starts at NT$300–500).

Staff speak English and help with setup.

We got ours from Klook. You can also get one from Airalo.


Free Airport Wi-Fi


TPE offers free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the airport.

No registration required. Just connect to "Airport Free WiFi".


Where to Withdraw Cash (NT$) or Exchange Currency

If you're arriving at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) and need to obtain New Taiwan Dollars (NTD), the airport offers several convenient options for currency exchange and cash withdrawal.

24/7 Currency Exchange Counters
  • Bank of Taiwan in Terminals 1 & 2
  • Mega Bank in Terminal 2

ATMs Everywhere
  • Accept most international cards
  • Choose to be charged in NTD for better rates!

Currency Exchange Machines
  • Quick and easy, but limited to USD, JPY, and RMB

Reminder: Avoid unofficial exchange booths. Stick with bank counters or ATMs for safety and fair rates!



Where to Eat and What to Buy at Taoyuan Airport


Dining Options

Taoyuan Airport offers a mix of Taiwanese street food, international fast food, and full-service restaurants. Some recommended stops:

  • Din Tai Fung (T2) – Famous Taiwanese dumplings.
  • Mos Burger, Starbucks, 7-Eleven, Beef Noodle Soup stalls – Quick and filling choices.
  • Gloria Outlets (one stop away via MRT) – For extended layovers.


Duty-Free Shopping

Find everything from luxury cosmetics, designer goods, electronics, to local souvenirs like pineapple cakes, oolong tea, and bubble tea kits.

Most stores open until midnight or later. Some are 24/7.


Arrival and Departure Guide


For Arrivals

Follow signs to Immigration and Baggage Claim.

Submit immigration forms (digital e-Gate or paper).

Visa-free entry for travelers from over 60+ countries including the USA, Japan, EU, and the Philippines.

Customs is usually quick and smooth.


For Departures

Arrive at least 2.5 to 3 hours before your international flight.

Check your departure terminal (T1 or T2) in advance.

After check-in, explore lounges, food courts, and shopping areas to relax before your flight.


Layover or Transit at Taoyuan Airport

If you have a long layover or are in transit at TPE, there’s plenty to keep you comfortable and entertained.


Free Transit Tour


Available for passengers with layovers of 7–24 hours.

Organized by Taiwan Tourism Bureau.

Visit highlights like Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Longshan Temple, or Yingge Ceramic Village.

Sign up at the Tourism Desk in the arrival area.


Rest Areas & Lounges


Free resting lounges with reclining chairs.

Showers available in selected lounges and public areas.

Premium lounges for Priority Pass holders and business class passengers.


Smart Travel Tip: Get an EasyCard

Before leaving the airport, purchase an EasyCard from any MRT vending machine or convenience store. This reusable smart card can be used for:

  • MRT, bus, and train rides
  • Convenience store purchases (7-Eleven, FamilyMart)
  • Bike rentals, ferries, and even some cafes

A fully loaded EasyCard will save you time and hassle throughout your Taiwan trip.

Visit my Ultimate Taiwan Travel Guide to know more about the country.


Final Thoughts

Taoyuan International Airport is more than just a travel hub—it’s your first introduction to Taiwan’s world-class infrastructure, warm hospitality, and efficient public services. Whether you’re navigating your way to Taipei, transferring to another flight, or enjoying a short layover, TPE offers a smooth, clean, and reliable experience for travelers of all kinds.

With excellent transport connections, multilingual signs, and traveler-friendly amenities, Taoyuan Airport makes arriving in Taiwan as effortless as it is exciting.

Visit my list of Frequently Asked Questions in Taiwan (FAQs) to learn more.



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Taoyuan International Airport (TPE): Guide to Taiwan’s Main International Gateway


Whether you're arriving in Taiwan for the first time or returning for another visit, your journey will likely begin at Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)—Taiwan’s largest and busiest airport.



Taoyuan International Airport (TPE)

Located about 40 kilometers west of Taipei City, TPE handles the majority of international flights to and from Taiwan and is a major hub in East Asia. Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) opened in 1979 and replaced the older Songshan Airport for most international flights. It currently operates with two main terminals (Terminal 1 and Terminal 2) and continues to expand with the construction of Terminal 3, expected to open in the near future.

This comprehensive travel guide will walk you through everything you need to know about navigating Taoyuan Airport, including terminal information, airport facilities, transportation options to Taipei, SIM card services, and helpful tips for arrivals, departures, and transits.

As Taiwan’s primary international air hub, TPE services over 40 million passengers annually and is home to Taiwan’s two major airlines: China Airlines and EVA Air.

Loading...

Terminal Breakdown: Terminal 1 vs. Terminal 2


Terminal 1 (T1)

Hosts a mix of low-cost carriers and international airlines such as Scoot, Cebu Pacific, AirAsia, and some flights by China Airlines.

Renovated in recent years, now features modern interiors, clear signage, and upgraded immigration and baggage claim facilities.

Arrival at Taoyuan International Airport (T1)

Terminal 2 (T2)

Services premium carriers such as EVA Air, Cathay Pacific, Emirates, ANA, and Japan Airlines.

Larger and more spacious than T1, with enhanced amenities, themed seating areas, wider food selections, and upgraded duty-free shopping.

Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Terminal 2 Check-in Hall

Tip: Use the free Skytrain or shuttle buses (available both landside and airside) to travel between terminals quickly and easily.




How to Get from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei City

Getting from Taoyuan Airport to Taipei is simple, with several convenient and budget-friendly options available to travelers.

Taoyuan Airport MRT A12 Station

1. Taoyuan Airport MRT (Metro)


Fastest and most efficient way to get to downtown Taipei.

Express service (purple line) reaches Taipei Main Station in ~35–38 minutes.

Commuter service (blue line) makes all stops and takes about 50 minutes.

Fare: NT$150 (approx. USD 5). Pay cashless with an EasyCard to skip the line.

Hours: ~6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

MRT stations are located in the B2 level of both terminals.

✅ Why Choose This: Clean, punctual, air-conditioned, with luggage racks and English announcements.



Airport Buses


Operate 24/7 and offer direct routes to Taipei, Taichung, Kaohsiung, and other major cities.

Popular operators: Kuo-Kuang, CitiAir, Ubus.

Fare to Taipei: NT$120–150, depending on the route. You can also pay cashless with an EasyCard.

Travel time: 50 minutes to 1 hour depending on traffic.

For other destinations such as Taichung and Kaohsiung, visit my Taoyuan International Airport Transfer Guide


3. Taxis


Queue at official taxi stands outside both terminals.

Fixed meter rate with airport surcharge.

Fare to Taipei: NT$1,000–1,300 (~USD 30–40).

Available 24/7.


4. Ride-Hailing and Private Transfers


Uber is widely used in Taiwan.

You can also pre-book private shuttles or hotel pickups online. You can book a private car service through platforms like Klook, KKDay, or hotel concierge desks.

Ideal for families or groups with lots of luggage.




Connectivity: SIM Cards, Wi-Fi, and Pocket Wi-Fi Rental

Staying connected in Taiwan is easy, especially at the airport.


SIM Card & Pocket Wi-Fi Booths


Available in the Arrival Halls of both terminals.

Choose from top telecom providers: Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, FarEasTone.

Affordable prepaid packages with data, texts, and call minutes (starts at NT$300–500).

Staff speak English and help with setup.

We got ours from Klook. You can also get one from Airalo.


Free Airport Wi-Fi


TPE offers free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the airport.

No registration required. Just connect to "Airport Free WiFi".


Where to Withdraw Cash (NT$) or Exchange Currency

If you're arriving at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) and need to obtain New Taiwan Dollars (NTD), the airport offers several convenient options for currency exchange and cash withdrawal.

24/7 Currency Exchange Counters
  • Bank of Taiwan in Terminals 1 & 2
  • Mega Bank in Terminal 2

ATMs Everywhere
  • Accept most international cards
  • Choose to be charged in NTD for better rates!

Currency Exchange Machines
  • Quick and easy, but limited to USD, JPY, and RMB

Reminder: Avoid unofficial exchange booths. Stick with bank counters or ATMs for safety and fair rates!



Where to Eat and What to Buy at Taoyuan Airport


Dining Options

Taoyuan Airport offers a mix of Taiwanese street food, international fast food, and full-service restaurants. Some recommended stops:

  • Din Tai Fung (T2) – Famous Taiwanese dumplings.
  • Mos Burger, Starbucks, 7-Eleven, Beef Noodle Soup stalls – Quick and filling choices.
  • Gloria Outlets (one stop away via MRT) – For extended layovers.


Duty-Free Shopping

Find everything from luxury cosmetics, designer goods, electronics, to local souvenirs like pineapple cakes, oolong tea, and bubble tea kits.

Most stores open until midnight or later. Some are 24/7.


Arrival and Departure Guide


For Arrivals

Follow signs to Immigration and Baggage Claim.

Submit immigration forms (digital e-Gate or paper).

Visa-free entry for travelers from over 60+ countries including the USA, Japan, EU, and the Philippines.

Customs is usually quick and smooth.


For Departures

Arrive at least 2.5 to 3 hours before your international flight.

Check your departure terminal (T1 or T2) in advance.

After check-in, explore lounges, food courts, and shopping areas to relax before your flight.


Layover or Transit at Taoyuan Airport

If you have a long layover or are in transit at TPE, there’s plenty to keep you comfortable and entertained.


Free Transit Tour


Available for passengers with layovers of 7–24 hours.

Organized by Taiwan Tourism Bureau.

Visit highlights like Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall, Longshan Temple, or Yingge Ceramic Village.

Sign up at the Tourism Desk in the arrival area.


Rest Areas & Lounges


Free resting lounges with reclining chairs.

Showers available in selected lounges and public areas.

Premium lounges for Priority Pass holders and business class passengers.


Smart Travel Tip: Get an EasyCard

Before leaving the airport, purchase an EasyCard from any MRT vending machine or convenience store. This reusable smart card can be used for:

  • MRT, bus, and train rides
  • Convenience store purchases (7-Eleven, FamilyMart)
  • Bike rentals, ferries, and even some cafes

A fully loaded EasyCard will save you time and hassle throughout your Taiwan trip.

Visit my Ultimate Taiwan Travel Guide to know more about the country.


Final Thoughts

Taoyuan International Airport is more than just a travel hub—it’s your first introduction to Taiwan’s world-class infrastructure, warm hospitality, and efficient public services. Whether you’re navigating your way to Taipei, transferring to another flight, or enjoying a short layover, TPE offers a smooth, clean, and reliable experience for travelers of all kinds.

With excellent transport connections, multilingual signs, and traveler-friendly amenities, Taoyuan Airport makes arriving in Taiwan as effortless as it is exciting.

Visit my list of Frequently Asked Questions in Taiwan (FAQs) to learn more.



Taoyuan International Airport guide, Taiwan airport transportation, Taoyuan Airport MRT, how to get to Taipei from Taoyuan Airport, Taiwan SIM card at airport, Taiwan airport layover tour, best way to go to Taipei from airport, TPE Airport tips, navigating Taiwan’s international airport, Taoyuan Airport terminals explained
Airport Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Transportation

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