Quick comparison
| Airport MRT (Express) | ~35–40 min to Taipei Main Station, moderate cost, runs directly from both terminals, no transfers. Best all-round option for most travelers. |
|---|---|
| Airport MRT (Local) | ~50–60 min, stops at every station, slightly cheaper than the express service. |
| Airport bus | ~50–70 min depending on traffic and route, cheapest option, drops closer to specific hotel districts on some routes — useful if your hotel isn't near an MRT stop. |
| Taxi | ~45–60 min depending on traffic, most expensive, most convenient with heavy luggage or a very late/early flight when trains aren't running. |
| Private transfer / ride-hailing | Similar time to taxi, bookable in advance, fixed price known ahead of time — useful if you want cost certainty before you land. |
Airport MRT (recommended for most travelers)
The Airport MRT line runs directly from both airport terminals into the city, with an Express service that skips most intermediate stations and a Local service that stops at all of them. The Express gets you to Taipei Main Station in around 35–40 minutes; from there, you can transfer directly onto the main city MRT network to reach almost any hotel area covered in our where to stay guide. Buy your ticket at the airport MRT station, or use an EasyCard if you already have one — see our full getting around guide for how EasyCards work.
If your hotel is directly on the Airport MRT line itself (rather than requiring a transfer at Taipei Main Station), the Local service can actually work out faster door-to-door than the Express plus a transfer — check your specific station before assuming Express is always quickest.
Airport bus
Several bus operators run routes from the airport into different parts of Taipei, generally the cheapest option and sometimes more convenient if your hotel is in an area not directly served by the MRT. Journey time is less predictable than the train, since buses are subject to road traffic — budget extra time, especially around rush hour.
Taxi & private transfer
The most straightforward option if you're traveling with heavy luggage, in a group where the cost splits reasonably, or arriving very late at night or very early in the morning when train frequency drops or service hasn't started yet. Metered taxis queue at clearly marked ranks outside arrivals; private transfers can be booked in advance for a fixed price, which some travelers prefer for the cost certainty alone.
Which should you choose?
- Solo or light luggage, hotel near an MRT line: Airport MRT Express.
- Budget is the priority, and time is flexible: Airport bus.
- Heavy luggage, a group, or a very early/late flight: Taxi or pre-booked private transfer.
- Want price certainty before landing: Pre-booked private transfer.