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How to Get to Taoyuan City

How to Get to Taoyuan City

Taoyuan City Taiwan, Taiwan Travel Guide

Air Travel

Taoyuan International Airport TPE

TPE is the main international gateway to Taiwan, located directly within Taoyuan City. TPE is a major hub for flights connecting North America, Europe, and destinations throughout Asia. It features two main terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, both well-equipped to handle high volumes of international traffic.

Airlines & Routes

  • Major International Airlines: EVA Air, China Airlines, Cathay Pacific, JAL, ANA, Korean Air, Singapore Airlines, Emirates, Qatar Airways, United, and Delta.
  • Regional & Low-Cost Carriers: Tigerair Taiwan, Peach Aviation, Scoot, AirAsia, and VietJet Air.
  • Extensive Routes: Direct flights connect TPE to major cities across Asia, North America, and Europe.

Airport Facilities & Transfers

TPE offers extensive facilities designed to enhance the traveler experience. You will find numerous duty-free shops, a wide selection of restaurants and cafes, comfortable lounges, and basic services like currency exchange counters and ATMs.

Airport Services

  • Duty-Free & Dining: Shops, restaurants, and cafes.
  • Lounges & Comfort: Lounges, free Wi-Fi, prayer rooms, shower facilities, and a Novotel hotel at Terminal 2.
  • Fundamental Services: Currency exchange, ATMs, luggage services.

Taoyuan Airport MRT

Connects TPE Terminals to Taoyuan HSR Station and Taipei Main Station. Express train to Taipei in 35-40 min. Fares NT$25-160.

Buses

Various lines connect TPE to Taoyuan City, Taipei, and other cities. A charge-effective alternative. Obtain tickets at arrival halls.

Taxis & Ride-Sharing

Available 24/7. Uber also operates for convenient booking. Private transfers can be pre-booked. Taxis to Taoyuan City NT$300-600, to Taipei NT$1,200-1,500.

Land Transportation: Rail Network

Taiwan High-Speed Rail THSR

  • Taoyuan THSR Station is a major stop on Taiwan's high-high-speed train network.
  • Offers fast travel, connecting Taoyuan to Taipei (approx. 20 minutes) and to cities south.
  • Booking THSR tickets in advance, especially during peak travel times, is good. Early booking discounts available.
  • Border Crossing: Not applicable as Taiwan is an island nation.

Taiwan Railways Administration TRA

  • Conventional TRA trains show a more extensive network, connecting Taoyuan City to other areas of Taiwan.
  • Major TRA stations in Taoyuan include Taoyuan Station and Zhongli Station.
  • While slower than the THSR, TRA trains often provide a more scenic journey and a cheaper alternative. They serve more local destinations.
  • Long-Intercity Coaches: Numerous intercity bus routes connect Taoyuan City to destinations across Taiwan. Major companies include Kuo-Kuang, Ubus, and Aloha Bus.

Self-Driving & Road Safety

Requirements

To rent a car, you need a valid national driver's license AND an International Driving Permit (IDP). Minimum age typically 20-25. A credit card for deposit is always needed. Compare options with DiscoverCars.com.

Road Conditions

Roads in Taiwan are generally well-maintained. However, traffic can be heavy and congested in urban areas, most significantly during rush hours. Taiwan drives on the right side of the road. Street signs appear in both Mandarin and often in English.

Parking & Safety

Parking can be challenging and expensive in downtown areas. Look for designated public parking lots, often marked with a blue sign with a white "P." Be aware of heavy motorcycle and scooter traffic. Drunk driving laws are strict and rigorously enforced.

Sea/River Arrivals

Maritime Access

Taoyuan City does not have major sea or river arrivals directly for travelers from abroad. Keelung Port, located north of Taipei, and Kaohsiung Port in the south serve as Taiwan's main cruise ports.

Cruise & Ferry Information

  • Cruise Ports: Main cruise ports are Keelung and Kaohsiung, not Taoyuan.
  • Ferries To the island: Ferries operate between Taiwan and its outlying islands, but these services do not depart directly from Taoyuan.
  • River Transportation: Not applicable as a public transport option for Taoyuan City.

Departure Information

No separate exit fees or taxes are typically charged at Taoyuan International Airport. These charges are usually covered in your plane ticket.

Departure Procedures & Airport Facilities

  • Timing: Arrive at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled international departure. This gives ample time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures. Compare flights with Skyscanner for deals.
  • Check-in: Online check-in is good where available. Bag drop-off lines can still be long, even with online check-in.
  • Security & Immigration: Processes are generally efficient at TPE but can experience queues during peak hours.

Duty-Free Shopping

TPE offers extensive duty-vat-free shopping for departing travelers.

Dining Options

A wide array of dining options catering to various tastes are available.

Lounges & Services

Multiple lounges, luggage wrapping, and storage services are provided.

Additional Departure Advice

Seasonal Flight Availability

Flight costs are generally fluctuate based on demand and seasonality. Expect higher prices during peak holiday seasons, like Lunar New Year, summer holidays (June-August), and the Christmas/New Year period.

Peak Times

  • Lunar New Year sees high demand for flights.
  • Summer holidays (June-August) also bring increased prices.
  • Christmas/New Year periods are typically more expensive.

Efficient Check-in & Security

Online check-in is good where available, letting you save time at the airport. Bag drop-off lines can still be long, even with online check-in. Safety and border control procedureses are generally efficient at TPE but can experience queues during peak hours.

Tips for a Smooth Departure

  • Reconfirm your flight status and terminal before heading to the airport.
  • Allow extra time during peak seasons or in the event which you have specific needs.
  • Be prepared with your passport and boarding pass for protection and immigration.

Airport Services for Departing Travelers

Duty-Free Shops

Extensive selections for last-minute souvenirs or gifts.

Restaurants & Cafes

A wide array of places to eat catering to various tastes.

Lounges

Airline-specific and pay-per-use lounges are available.

Final Travel Reminder

Reconfirm your flight status and terminal before heading to the airport. Allow extra time during peak seasons or if you have specific needs. Dollar Flight Club for flight deals.