Taiwan: Essential Apps and Practical Travel Tips
During our three weeks in Taiwan, we discovered several ways to make getting around and everyday life easier. Apps, cash withdrawals, SIM cards and transport: here are our practical tips to help you plan your trip, avoid surprises and save money.
Which apps should you download in Taiwan?
Google Maps: to find your way around, discover restaurants and plan walking or public transport routes.
YouBike 2.0: to locate shared bikes, check availability and manage rentals.
Uber: to book a car and see the estimated fare, especially with luggage or in the evening.
ATM Fee Saver: to find ATMs and compare withdrawal fees to avoid unnecessary charges.
LINE: to communicate with hotels, guides and local providers. Widely used in Taiwan, this messaging app makes conversations and bookings easier.
How do you pay and withdraw cash in Taiwan?
The local currency is the New Taiwan dollar (TWD or NT$). Cards are widely accepted in hotels and major stores, but always carry cash for night markets, small restaurants and EasyCard top-ups.
With our Revolut card, we withdrew cash without fees at Kaohsiung Bank, Cathay United Bank and Mega Bank. Other banks may also offer fee-free withdrawals. Use ATM Fee Saver to compare ATMs and their charges, which can vary depending on the bank and your card.
Finally, decline the ATM’s currency conversion and always withdraw in TWD.
Which SIM or eSIM should you choose in Taiwan?
We used Chunghwa Telecom, one of the country’s main operators. During our three weeks, we had no connection problems.
We chose a plan with unlimited data, which was handy for navigation apps and planning our journeys without watching our data usage.
An eSIM such as Airalo is a convenient alternative for getting online as soon as you arrive, but compare prices with local plans.
How do you get around Taiwan?
In cities, metros and buses are convenient and affordable. We recommend the EasyCard, accepted on much of the public transport network. You can buy it at metro stations or convenience stores such as 7-Eleven and FamilyMart, then top it up with cash at those locations.
In Taipei, some metro networks also allow contactless payment with a compatible bank card or phone. For travelling across several cities, however, the EasyCard remains the most versatile option.
For intercity travel, choose between conventional Taiwan Railway trains and the THSR high-speed train, which connects Taipei with Kaohsiung, among other cities.
You can book THSR tickets in advance on the official website. There are also non-reserved tickets sold only on the day of travel, valid for your chosen route without an assigned seat. If the carriages are full, you may have to stand.
What mistakes should you avoid in Taiwan?
- Travelling without cash: many small businesses do not accept cards, and you will need cash to top up your EasyCard.
- Mixing up THSR and Taiwan Railway stations: they are not always in the same location. Double-check your departure station.
- Leaving train bookings too late: reserved THSR seats can be in high demand on weekends and public holidays. Book ahead if your dates are fixed.
To discover Taiwan from another perspective, explore all our travel stories and recommendations from across the country.