Taiwan Taxi Guide: Fares, Apps & Tips for Singaporean

Travelling around Taiwan independently is relatively easy thanks to the island’s efficient MRT and railway networks. 

However, taxis remain one of the most convenient transport options, especially for late-night travel, airport transfers, carrying heavy luggage, or reaching destinations that are less accessible by public transport.

This Taiwan taxi guide covers everything travellers need to know before getting into a cab, including how taxi fares work, available payment methods, useful local taxi tips, and the best taxi-booking apps to use during your trip.

Introduction to Taiwan Taxis

Taxis in Taiwan are widely used by both locals and tourists because they are safe, reliable, and easy to find in most major cities, including Taipei, Taichung, Tainan, and Kaohsiung.

You’ll usually spot the familiar bright yellow taxis around MRT stations, shopping districts, night markets, hotels, and popular tourist areas, so getting a ride is rarely difficult.

Compared to Singapore, taxi fares in Taiwan are usually more affordable, especially for short city rides.

A quick trip within Taipei may cost around S$4.00–S$8.00, while longer rides could range between S$12.00–S$25.00 depending on distance, traffic conditions, highway tolls, and waiting time.

Many travellers use taxis for:

• Airport transfers
• Night market hopping
• Travelling after MRT operating hours
• Day trips to places with fewer train connections
• Avoiding heavy luggage on public transport

Types of Taxis in Taiwan

🚕 Standard Yellow Taxis

These are the most common taxis throughout Taiwan and operate in major cities and towns across the island. You can easily hail them on the street, find them outside train stations, or book them through taxi apps.

Most standard taxis use metered fares regulated by local governments.

They are commonly used in:

• Taipei
• New Taipei City
• Taichung
• Tainan
• Kaohsiung

🚕 Airport Taxis

Airport taxis are available at major airports such as Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport and Kaohsiung International Airport.

For many travellers, airport taxis are one of the most convenient ways to reach hotels after a long flight.

These taxis usually operate from official airport taxi queues and may charge:

• Standard metered fares
• Highway tolls
• Possible airport service fees

🚕 Taxi Apps & Ride-Hailing Services

Taiwan also has several ride-hailing apps that allow travellers to:

• Book taxis in advance
• Track driver arrival
• Pay digitally
• Estimate fares before the ride

Some apps also offer larger vehicles for groups or travellers with multiple luggage bags.

Taxi Fares in Taiwan

Taxi fares in Taiwan are generally affordable compared to many other Asian destinations, although prices can vary slightly between cities. In places like Taipei, travellers usually find taxis reasonably priced, especially for short trips around the city.

Here’s a simple overview of the typical taxi fares in major cities such as Taipei:

📌 Helpful fare references (approx.)

• Taipei Main Station → Ximending: S$5.00–S$7.00
• Taipei city centre → Taipei 101: S$6.00–S$10.00
• Taoyuan Airport → Taipei city: S$45.00–S$65.00

Actual fares may vary depending on:

• Traffic conditions
• Waiting time at traffic lights
• Highway tolls
• Time of day
• Pick-up location

Use these estimates as a rough guide when budgeting for transportation in Taiwan.

Additional Taiwan Taxi Charges

Besides the metered fare, some extra charges may apply depending on your trip.

How to Take a Taxi in Taiwan

Getting a taxi in Taiwan is usually very easy, even if it’s your first time visiting the country. In bigger cities like Taipei and Kaohsiung, taxis are everywhere and easy to spot throughout the day.

There are several ways to get a taxi in Taiwan:

• Flag one down directly from the street
• Book a ride through a taxi app
• Ask your hotel staff to help arrange one
• Use taxi queues located near MRT stations, train stations, shopping areas, and popular attractions

Step-by-Step Guide to Taking a Taxi in Taiwan

Step 1: Find a taxi

You can either flag one down on the roadside or book through a taxi app like Uber or LINE GO.

Step 2: Confirm your destination

Show the driver your destination address on your phone if needed. Having the address in Chinese can be especially helpful outside Taipei.

Step 3: Enjoy your ride

Most rides are comfortable and air-conditioned. In larger cities, drivers are usually familiar with popular attractions and hotels.

Step 4: Pay at the end of the trip

Many taxis accept cash, credit cards, EasyCard, ,mobile payments, or in-app payments. However, cash is still useful for smaller rides or older taxis.

Hailing a Taxi on the Street

In popular areas such as Ximending, Shilin, Taipei Main Station, and Raohe Night Market, finding a taxi is usually quite easy, especially during the daytime and evening hours.

To hail a taxi in Taiwan:

• Wait by the roadside or designated pick-up area
• Raise your hand when you see an available taxi approaching
• Look for the illuminated taxi roof light, which usually means the taxi is available for passengers

📌 Avoid waiting in:

• Bus-only lanes
• MRT exits with taxi restrictions
• No-stopping zones

Taking a Taxi from Taiwan Airports

Taking a taxi from Taiwan’s airports is usually one of the easiest ways to get to your hotel, especially if you’re arriving late at night or travelling with heavy luggage. Taxi queues are well organised, and finding a ride is generally quick and hassle-free.

At Taoyuan International Airport

Follow signs to the official taxi queue outside the arrivals hall.

Most airport taxis:

• Use meters
• Add highway toll charges separately
• Accept cash and some digital payments

Popular routes include:

• Taoyuan Airport → Taipei
• Taoyuan Airport → Ximending
• Taoyuan Airport → Beitou
• Taoyuan Airport → New Taipei City

At Kaohsiung International Airport

Taxis are available outside the terminal and are commonly used for rides into Kaohsiung city centre.

Recommended Taxi Apps in Taiwan

Using a taxi app in Taiwan can make travelling around much easier, especially for visitors who do not speak Mandarin. Instead of explaining destinations to drivers, you can simply enter the address in the app and book your ride within seconds.

Many travellers prefer using taxi apps in Taiwan because they offer added convenience, including:

• Estimated fares before the ride
• Cashless payment options
• English-language booking features
• GPS tracking for added safety and easier navigation

1. Uber

Uber operates in several Taiwanese cities and is popular among international travellers.

Highlights:

• English app support
• Cashless payment
• Fare estimates before booking
• Convenient airport pickups

2. LINE GO

LINE GO is widely used in Taiwan and connects easily with the LINE messaging app.

Highlights:

• Popular among locals
• Easy booking process
• Supports digital payments
• Often available in major cities

3. Taiwan Taxi (55688)

One of Taiwan’s largest taxi networks, commonly known as “55688”.

Highlights:

• Large driver network
• Airport taxi booking
• Scheduled rides available
• English-friendly app features

4. FindTaxi

FindTaxi allows travellers to compare nearby taxi availability and request rides easily.

Highlights:

• Multiple taxi company access
• Convenient for city rides
• Useful during busy hours

Tips for Taking a Taxi in Taiwan

Taking taxis in Taiwan is generally straightforward, but a few simple tips can make your journey much smoother, especially if it’s your first time visiting the island.

Carry some cash

While many taxis in Taiwan now accept cards and mobile payments, some drivers still prefer cash payments, particularly outside larger cities like Taipei.

Save your destination in Chinese

Not all taxi drivers speak English, so it helps to have your hotel name, restaurant, or attraction written in Chinese. Showing the address on your phone usually makes things much easier.

Be aware of late-night surcharges

Taxi fares can be slightly higher during late-night hours, so don’t be surprised if your ride costs a little more after midnight.

Expect extra toll charges for airport trips

If you’re taking a taxi from Taoyuan Airport into Taipei, highway toll fees are usually added on top of the metered fare.

Use taxi apps during bad weather

When it rains or during busy evening hours, finding a street taxi can take longer than usual. In these situations, using a taxi app is often the faster and more convenient option.