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Taipei, the bustling capital city of Taiwan, lies roughly 1,180 kilometers north of Manila, making it one of the closest international destinations for Filipino travelers.

A direct flight from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) takes only 1 hour and 30 minutes—shorter than most domestic flights to Davao or Cebu!

Us boarding for our flight to TPE

Whether you’re a first-time international traveler or a seasoned adventurer looking for something new, Taipei offers an easy, fun, and culture-rich escape from the Philippines.



Why Visit Taipei if You’re a Filipino?

There are plenty of reasons why Taipei is an ideal destination for Filipinos—especially if you’re traveling on a budget or exploring East Asia for the first time: 

Me in Taipei

Visa-Free Entry: As of writing, Filipino passport holders can enter Taiwan visa-free for up to 14 days until July 31, 2025. That’s more time to explore without worrying about the cost and paperwork of visa applications.

Short and affordable flights: Airlines such as Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia frequently offer seat sales, making round-trip tickets accessible for most travelers. 

Great food and shopping: Taiwanese street food, bubble tea, and trendy shopping streets like Ximending and Shilin Night Market are heaven for foodies and shopaholics. 

Modern yet cultural: The city blends modern efficiency with deep cultural roots—expect fast trains and WiFi alongside temples and tea houses. 

Clean, safe, and commuter-friendly: Taipei’s mass transit system (MRT) is organized, foreigner-friendly, and very safe even late at night.

Walking at night in Ximending

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Before Going to Taipei: What Filipino Travelers Need to Prepare 

Filipino tourists flying abroad—especially for the first time—must comply with specific requirements to pass immigration checks and ensure a smooth travel experience. 


Basic Travel Requirements


I made sure to prepare the following before our flight:

  • Valid Philippine Passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay) 
  • Confirmed return ticket to the Philippines 
  • Hotel booking confirmation for the entire stay 
  • Detailed travel itinerary 


Supporting Documents You May Need


Since I wasn’t employed at the time, I didn’t have a COE (Certificate of Employment) or ITR (Income Tax Return). However, if you’re employed in the Philippines, bringing these documents helps prove financial capacity and ties to the country. 

To be safe, I also prepared:




Online Travel Requirements Before Flying


You’ll also need to complete a few online forms before your flight. These forms are usually processed 2–3 days before departure:

Taiwan Arrival Card – Must be filled out before arriving in Taiwan.

Philippines eTravel – Required for both departure and arrival in the Philippines.

Lucky Land Promo Registration – A tourism initiative from Taiwan that lets you win NT$5,000 e-vouchers as a tourist.

Sample of Taiwan Online Arrival Card


Important Tips for the Philippine Immigration Interview


Once you’re at the airport, the biggest hurdle for many Filipino travelers is the Immigration Interview. Based on experience, it wasn’t as intimidating as I thought, but being prepared helped a lot. 

Immigration

What You Should Know:

  • Memorize your passport number, expiration date, and flight details 
  • Be ready to explain your purpose of travel (leisure or tourism) 
  • Be clear about who you’re traveling with (solo or group) 
  • Know the number of days you’ll be abroad 
  • Stay calm and answer confidently but honestly 

In my case, the Immigration Officer was straightforward, asked about the trip, and after confirming my documents, I was cleared in less than five minutes. 


Our Manila to Taipei Travel Experience



Booking and Pre-Flight Prep


We booked a Cebu Pacific flight from NAIA Terminal 3 to Taoyuan International Airport. It was scheduled for a Wednesday midnight, which was perfect for travelers like us who wanted to maximize our first day in Taipei. 

Us with our friend, Gelo

I was traveling with my wife and a couple of friends, so we made sure to arrive at the airport 3 to 4 hours before our scheduled departure. At that hour, NAIA Terminal 3 was already buzzing with passengers and airport staff.

Every entry you should show your plane ticket

The moment we got off the taxi, airport personnel approached us asking for our flight information. Thankfully, I had a digital copy of our ticket ready on my phone. 


Check-In Process


Since we were all traveling light with no checked baggage, we were guided to the Documents Check counter instead of the regular check-in lines. There, we presented our passports, had our documents reviewed, and were promptly given our boarding passes. 

Cebu Pacific Document Check counter

From there, we headed to the Immigration area, where each of us was interviewed separately. My interview was simple: the officer asked about our flight and the purpose of travel.

This is the moment!

He wasn’t intimidating—more like doing a routine check—and I was relieved to get cleared quickly. 



Security Check & Boarding Gate


After immigration, we passed through a strict security screening—even shoes had to be removed!

Took off shoes at the security check

All gadgets were placed in trays. Once cleared, we walked toward our boarding gate: Gate 105. Terminal 3’s long alley felt endless, but the good news was there were many open shops, souvenir stores, and restaurants, even at 10 PM. 

Stores inside Terminal 3 departure

We had a quick dinner at Kenny Rogers, though the prices were noticeably higher than regular branches outside the airport.

Going to Gate 105

Along the way, we saw walkalators, charging ports, restrooms, and free WiFi—definitely a more pleasant pre-departure experience than I expected. 

I spotted a kids playground at the departure hall in T3

In-Flight Experience


We finally boarded a few minutes before midnight. Cebu Pacific’s flight was on time, and it was a short and uneventful journey. In just 1 hour and 30 minutes, we touched down at Taoyuan International Airport Terminal 1 around 1:00 AM. 

Goodbye Manila

Arrival in Taipei: What Happens After Landing 



Airport Immigration & Facilities


Upon arrival, the airport felt almost deserted—quiet and eerily clean. Most shops were closed at that hour, with only vending machines operating.

Arrival hall at Taoyuan Airport T1

We proceeded to the Immigration area, where we simply presented our passports. There was barely any conversation; they scanned our documents and let us through smoothly. 

Taiwan’s e-Gates were particularly impressive. You just scan your passport, take a quick selfie, and that’s it. No need to line up if you’re eligible for automated entry. 

Baggage carousel area

We walked past the baggage claim area and waited for our friends who took a bit longer at immigration.

Making withdrawals from Bank of Taiwan ATM

We then looked for an ATM machine, and I found a Bank of Taiwan ATM near the South Meeting Point, where I was able to withdraw cash using my SeaBank card.

We opted to withdraw NT$ 10,000 for the 3-day trip in Taiwan


Trying Our Luck at Lucky Land


We also spotted the Lucky Land booth, where tourists can try winning NT$5,000 worth of e-vouchers. Out of all of us, only one friend got lucky, but it was a fun experience either way. 

Taiwan Lucky Land Booth

Our friend won NT$ 5,000 Lucky Land e-voucher


How We Got to Taipei City at 2AM 

By the time we were ready to leave the airport, it was already past 2AM. The Airport MRT wasn’t running yet, so our only options were taxi/Uber or bus. Wanting to save money, we opted for the Kuo-Kuang Motor Transport Bus heading to Taipei Main Station. 

Transfer signage from TPE first level

Where to Catch the Bus


We went to the basement level, where there’s a 7-Eleven (yes, it was open!) and ticketing counters.

A 7-Eleven store at Taoyuan Airport basement

An elderly man was manning the Kuo-Kuang counter, and he sold us tickets for NT$133 per person.

Kuo-Kuang Bus Ticket to Taipei

Luckily, there was a bus ready to leave, so we didn’t have to wait long.

Kuo-Kuang Bus to Taipei

The bus was spacious, comfortable, and air-conditioned. There's a restroom inside like the one in Solid North luxury bus to Baguio. There's free Wi-Fi, too!

Inside Kuo-Kuang Bus

In about an hour, we arrived at Taipei Main Station. 


Taxi to Ximending: Final Leg to Our Hotel

Instead of Taipei Main Station, we were dropped off Taipei Bus Station which is connected to Taipei Main Station

Taipei Bus Station

From here, we hailed a taxi to our hotel in Ximending, which was just about 6 minutes away.

Us catching a taxi ride in front of Taipei Bus Station

The fare was NT$200 for the three of us, but we later realized an Uber would have cost only NT$100. Still, it was early morning and we were tired, so we were just glad to finally get to our hotel. 

Finally arrived at our hotel


3-Day Itinerary in Taipei for First-Time Filipino Travelers 

This sample itinerary is perfect for those visiting Taipei for the first time and want to experience a mix of culture, food, and modern attractions. 


Day 1: Culture + Night Market Adventure


Morning: 
  • Arrival at Taoyuan International Airport
  • Travel to hotel (Ximending, Zhongzheng, or Daan are great areas for tourists)
  • Check-in and freshen up

Afternoon:
  • Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
  • Explore the National Theater and Concert Hall
  • Stroll around 228 Peace Memorial Park

Evening:
  • Head to Shilin Night Market – Taiwan’s biggest and most famous
  • Try iconic street foods: stinky tofu, large fried chicken, bubble tea 
  • Shop for souvenirs and cute finds

Shilin Night Market

Day 2: Nature, Views & Shopping


Morning:
  • Ride the MRT to Taipei Zoo Station
  • Take the Maokong Gondola for panoramic mountain views
  • Enjoy a tea break at a Maokong teahouse

Afternoon:
  • Go up Taipei 101 Observatory (book tickets online for discounts)
  • Shop at Taipei 101 Mall or nearby ATT 4 FUN

Evening:
  • Explore Ximending Youth Shopping District
  • Enjoy quirky cafes, street performers, and local fashion

Taipei 101 Observatory

Day 3: Day Trip + Food Trip


Morning: 
  • Take a train or bus to Jiufen Old Street – a magical mountain village that inspired Spirited Away
  • Sample taro balls, fish balls, peanut ice cream roll

Afternoon:
  • If time permits, visit Shifen Waterfall or Pingxi for sky lanterns
  • Return to Taipei in late afternoon

Evening: 
  • Final food trip at Raohe Night Market
  • Head back to the hotel, pack, and prepare for departure

A-Mei Tea House in Jiufen | Photo by Where and Wander

Estimated Budget for a 3-Day Taipei Trip (Per Person) 



Tip: Always check exchange rates. As of writing, ₱1 = NT$0.56 (or NT$1 = ₱1.78)


SIM Card or eSIM for Taipei


Option 1: Physical SIM Card
  • Purchase at Taoyuan Airport or online in advance (Klook, KKDay) 
  • Common providers: Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile 
  • Cost: Around NT$300–NT$500 for 3–5 days of unlimited data

Option 2: eSIM
  • Ideal for newer iPhones or Android devices with eSIM capability 
  • Buy online and activate via QR code before you arrive 
  • No need to swap SIMs! 
  • Recommended: Airalo, Klook eSIM, or Holafly
  • Cost: Similar to physical SIMs, around NT$300–NT$500 

Tip: Airport WiFi is free and fast, so you can download and activate your eSIM right after landing if needed. 


EasyCard: Your Best Travel Buddy in Taipei

The EasyCard is a contactless card used for: 

  • MRT and buses 
  • Maokong Gondola 
  • Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart) 
  • Some vending machines and attractions 

Where to Buy: 

  • MRT stations, airport kiosks, or convenience stores 
  • Cost: NT$100 (non-refundable) + load amount



How Much to Load:
 
  • Load NT$400–NT$500 for 3 days(you can refund the remaining balance minus a small handling fee) 

How to Use:

  • Tap in and out when riding the MRT or bus 
  • Tap at counters when shopping

EasyCard

Final Tips for Filipinos Traveling to Taipei


Prepare both digital and printed copies of all travel documents.

Arrive early at the airport—especially if it’s your first international trip.

Have Taiwanese Dollars (NT$) ready, or withdraw from ATMs at the airport.

Don’t forget to register online for eTravel and Taiwan Arrival Card.

Taipei is walkable and safe, so bring comfy shoes, a loaded EasyCard, and a working SIM/eSIM 

Me chilling on a street bench

Conclusion

With visa-free entry, affordable flights, and endless things to explore, Taipei is a fantastic travel destination for Filipinos looking for a short international trip.

Our journey from Manila to Taipei was smooth, fun, and memorable—and yours can be too. Whether you’re after culture, food, or just a different vibe, Taiwan welcomes you with open arms.


TAIWAN TRAVEL GUIDE: How to Travel from Manila to Taipei (For First Timers)


Taipei, the bustling capital city of Taiwan, lies roughly 1,180 kilometers north of Manila, making it one of the closest international destinations for Filipino travelers.

A direct flight from Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) takes only 1 hour and 30 minutes—shorter than most domestic flights to Davao or Cebu!

Us boarding for our flight to TPE

Whether you’re a first-time international traveler or a seasoned adventurer looking for something new, Taipei offers an easy, fun, and culture-rich escape from the Philippines.



Why Visit Taipei if You’re a Filipino?

There are plenty of reasons why Taipei is an ideal destination for Filipinos—especially if you’re traveling on a budget or exploring East Asia for the first time: 

Me in Taipei

Visa-Free Entry: As of writing, Filipino passport holders can enter Taiwan visa-free for up to 14 days until July 31, 2025. That’s more time to explore without worrying about the cost and paperwork of visa applications.

Short and affordable flights: Airlines such as Cebu Pacific, Philippine Airlines, and AirAsia frequently offer seat sales, making round-trip tickets accessible for most travelers. 

Great food and shopping: Taiwanese street food, bubble tea, and trendy shopping streets like Ximending and Shilin Night Market are heaven for foodies and shopaholics. 

Modern yet cultural: The city blends modern efficiency with deep cultural roots—expect fast trains and WiFi alongside temples and tea houses. 

Clean, safe, and commuter-friendly: Taipei’s mass transit system (MRT) is organized, foreigner-friendly, and very safe even late at night.

Walking at night in Ximending

Loading...

Before Going to Taipei: What Filipino Travelers Need to Prepare 

Filipino tourists flying abroad—especially for the first time—must comply with specific requirements to pass immigration checks and ensure a smooth travel experience. 


Basic Travel Requirements


I made sure to prepare the following before our flight:

  • Valid Philippine Passport (must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay) 
  • Confirmed return ticket to the Philippines 
  • Hotel booking confirmation for the entire stay 
  • Detailed travel itinerary 


Supporting Documents You May Need


Since I wasn’t employed at the time, I didn’t have a COE (Certificate of Employment) or ITR (Income Tax Return). However, if you’re employed in the Philippines, bringing these documents helps prove financial capacity and ties to the country. 

To be safe, I also prepared:




Online Travel Requirements Before Flying


You’ll also need to complete a few online forms before your flight. These forms are usually processed 2–3 days before departure:

Taiwan Arrival Card – Must be filled out before arriving in Taiwan.

Philippines eTravel – Required for both departure and arrival in the Philippines.

Lucky Land Promo Registration – A tourism initiative from Taiwan that lets you win NT$5,000 e-vouchers as a tourist.

Sample of Taiwan Online Arrival Card


Important Tips for the Philippine Immigration Interview


Once you’re at the airport, the biggest hurdle for many Filipino travelers is the Immigration Interview. Based on experience, it wasn’t as intimidating as I thought, but being prepared helped a lot. 

Immigration

What You Should Know:

  • Memorize your passport number, expiration date, and flight details 
  • Be ready to explain your purpose of travel (leisure or tourism) 
  • Be clear about who you’re traveling with (solo or group) 
  • Know the number of days you’ll be abroad 
  • Stay calm and answer confidently but honestly 

In my case, the Immigration Officer was straightforward, asked about the trip, and after confirming my documents, I was cleared in less than five minutes. 


Our Manila to Taipei Travel Experience



Booking and Pre-Flight Prep


We booked a Cebu Pacific flight from NAIA Terminal 3 to Taoyuan International Airport. It was scheduled for a Wednesday midnight, which was perfect for travelers like us who wanted to maximize our first day in Taipei. 

Us with our friend, Gelo

I was traveling with my wife and a couple of friends, so we made sure to arrive at the airport 3 to 4 hours before our scheduled departure. At that hour, NAIA Terminal 3 was already buzzing with passengers and airport staff.

Every entry you should show your plane ticket

The moment we got off the taxi, airport personnel approached us asking for our flight information. Thankfully, I had a digital copy of our ticket ready on my phone. 


Check-In Process


Since we were all traveling light with no checked baggage, we were guided to the Documents Check counter instead of the regular check-in lines. There, we presented our passports, had our documents reviewed, and were promptly given our boarding passes. 

Cebu Pacific Document Check counter

From there, we headed to the Immigration area, where each of us was interviewed separately. My interview was simple: the officer asked about our flight and the purpose of travel.

This is the moment!

He wasn’t intimidating—more like doing a routine check—and I was relieved to get cleared quickly. 



Security Check & Boarding Gate


After immigration, we passed through a strict security screening—even shoes had to be removed!

Took off shoes at the security check

All gadgets were placed in trays. Once cleared, we walked toward our boarding gate: Gate 105. Terminal 3’s long alley felt endless, but the good news was there were many open shops, souvenir stores, and restaurants, even at 10 PM. 

Stores inside Terminal 3 departure

We had a quick dinner at Kenny Rogers, though the prices were noticeably higher than regular branches outside the airport.

Going to Gate 105

Along the way, we saw walkalators, charging ports, restrooms, and free WiFi—definitely a more pleasant pre-departure experience than I expected. 

I spotted a kids playground at the departure hall in T3

In-Flight Experience


We finally boarded a few minutes before midnight. Cebu Pacific’s flight was on time, and it was a short and uneventful journey. In just 1 hour and 30 minutes, we touched down at Taoyuan International Airport Terminal 1 around 1:00 AM. 

Goodbye Manila

Arrival in Taipei: What Happens After Landing 



Airport Immigration & Facilities


Upon arrival, the airport felt almost deserted—quiet and eerily clean. Most shops were closed at that hour, with only vending machines operating.

Arrival hall at Taoyuan Airport T1

We proceeded to the Immigration area, where we simply presented our passports. There was barely any conversation; they scanned our documents and let us through smoothly. 

Taiwan’s e-Gates were particularly impressive. You just scan your passport, take a quick selfie, and that’s it. No need to line up if you’re eligible for automated entry. 

Baggage carousel area

We walked past the baggage claim area and waited for our friends who took a bit longer at immigration.

Making withdrawals from Bank of Taiwan ATM

We then looked for an ATM machine, and I found a Bank of Taiwan ATM near the South Meeting Point, where I was able to withdraw cash using my SeaBank card.

We opted to withdraw NT$ 10,000 for the 3-day trip in Taiwan


Trying Our Luck at Lucky Land


We also spotted the Lucky Land booth, where tourists can try winning NT$5,000 worth of e-vouchers. Out of all of us, only one friend got lucky, but it was a fun experience either way. 

Taiwan Lucky Land Booth

Our friend won NT$ 5,000 Lucky Land e-voucher


How We Got to Taipei City at 2AM 

By the time we were ready to leave the airport, it was already past 2AM. The Airport MRT wasn’t running yet, so our only options were taxi/Uber or bus. Wanting to save money, we opted for the Kuo-Kuang Motor Transport Bus heading to Taipei Main Station. 

Transfer signage from TPE first level

Where to Catch the Bus


We went to the basement level, where there’s a 7-Eleven (yes, it was open!) and ticketing counters.

A 7-Eleven store at Taoyuan Airport basement

An elderly man was manning the Kuo-Kuang counter, and he sold us tickets for NT$133 per person.

Kuo-Kuang Bus Ticket to Taipei

Luckily, there was a bus ready to leave, so we didn’t have to wait long.

Kuo-Kuang Bus to Taipei

The bus was spacious, comfortable, and air-conditioned. There's a restroom inside like the one in Solid North luxury bus to Baguio. There's free Wi-Fi, too!

Inside Kuo-Kuang Bus

In about an hour, we arrived at Taipei Main Station. 


Taxi to Ximending: Final Leg to Our Hotel

Instead of Taipei Main Station, we were dropped off Taipei Bus Station which is connected to Taipei Main Station

Taipei Bus Station

From here, we hailed a taxi to our hotel in Ximending, which was just about 6 minutes away.

Us catching a taxi ride in front of Taipei Bus Station

The fare was NT$200 for the three of us, but we later realized an Uber would have cost only NT$100. Still, it was early morning and we were tired, so we were just glad to finally get to our hotel. 

Finally arrived at our hotel


3-Day Itinerary in Taipei for First-Time Filipino Travelers 

This sample itinerary is perfect for those visiting Taipei for the first time and want to experience a mix of culture, food, and modern attractions. 


Day 1: Culture + Night Market Adventure


Morning: 
  • Arrival at Taoyuan International Airport
  • Travel to hotel (Ximending, Zhongzheng, or Daan are great areas for tourists)
  • Check-in and freshen up

Afternoon:
  • Visit Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall
  • Explore the National Theater and Concert Hall
  • Stroll around 228 Peace Memorial Park

Evening:
  • Head to Shilin Night Market – Taiwan’s biggest and most famous
  • Try iconic street foods: stinky tofu, large fried chicken, bubble tea 
  • Shop for souvenirs and cute finds

Shilin Night Market

Day 2: Nature, Views & Shopping


Morning:
  • Ride the MRT to Taipei Zoo Station
  • Take the Maokong Gondola for panoramic mountain views
  • Enjoy a tea break at a Maokong teahouse

Afternoon:
  • Go up Taipei 101 Observatory (book tickets online for discounts)
  • Shop at Taipei 101 Mall or nearby ATT 4 FUN

Evening:
  • Explore Ximending Youth Shopping District
  • Enjoy quirky cafes, street performers, and local fashion

Taipei 101 Observatory

Day 3: Day Trip + Food Trip


Morning: 
  • Take a train or bus to Jiufen Old Street – a magical mountain village that inspired Spirited Away
  • Sample taro balls, fish balls, peanut ice cream roll

Afternoon:
  • If time permits, visit Shifen Waterfall or Pingxi for sky lanterns
  • Return to Taipei in late afternoon

Evening: 
  • Final food trip at Raohe Night Market
  • Head back to the hotel, pack, and prepare for departure

A-Mei Tea House in Jiufen | Photo by Where and Wander

Estimated Budget for a 3-Day Taipei Trip (Per Person) 



Tip: Always check exchange rates. As of writing, ₱1 = NT$0.56 (or NT$1 = ₱1.78)


SIM Card or eSIM for Taipei


Option 1: Physical SIM Card
  • Purchase at Taoyuan Airport or online in advance (Klook, KKDay) 
  • Common providers: Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile 
  • Cost: Around NT$300–NT$500 for 3–5 days of unlimited data

Option 2: eSIM
  • Ideal for newer iPhones or Android devices with eSIM capability 
  • Buy online and activate via QR code before you arrive 
  • No need to swap SIMs! 
  • Recommended: Airalo, Klook eSIM, or Holafly
  • Cost: Similar to physical SIMs, around NT$300–NT$500 

Tip: Airport WiFi is free and fast, so you can download and activate your eSIM right after landing if needed. 


EasyCard: Your Best Travel Buddy in Taipei

The EasyCard is a contactless card used for: 

  • MRT and buses 
  • Maokong Gondola 
  • Convenience stores (7-Eleven, FamilyMart) 
  • Some vending machines and attractions 

Where to Buy: 

  • MRT stations, airport kiosks, or convenience stores 
  • Cost: NT$100 (non-refundable) + load amount



How Much to Load:
 
  • Load NT$400–NT$500 for 3 days(you can refund the remaining balance minus a small handling fee) 

How to Use:

  • Tap in and out when riding the MRT or bus 
  • Tap at counters when shopping

EasyCard

Final Tips for Filipinos Traveling to Taipei


Prepare both digital and printed copies of all travel documents.

Arrive early at the airport—especially if it’s your first international trip.

Have Taiwanese Dollars (NT$) ready, or withdraw from ATMs at the airport.

Don’t forget to register online for eTravel and Taiwan Arrival Card.

Taipei is walkable and safe, so bring comfy shoes, a loaded EasyCard, and a working SIM/eSIM 

Me chilling on a street bench

Conclusion

With visa-free entry, affordable flights, and endless things to explore, Taipei is a fantastic travel destination for Filipinos looking for a short international trip.

Our journey from Manila to Taipei was smooth, fun, and memorable—and yours can be too. Whether you’re after culture, food, or just a different vibe, Taiwan welcomes you with open arms.


Asia Cebu Pacific Taipei Taiwan Travel Travel Guide

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