Getting around in Taipei is very simple, thanks to its universally efficient network of roads and public transport. There is a wide variety of reliable options available to take you to every nook and corner of the city. One such is the MRT system, favored by both the locals and the tourists as it connects with every major tourist attraction. For most modes of transportation, it is advisable to use an EasyCard that, when used even provides discounts on journeys. Also called the Yoyo card, it is a one-touch payment system that can store a value of up to NT$5,000 and works on the YouBikes, MRT, and buses. The card can be recharged easily at any of the MRT stations or even the convenience stores.

1. Car rental

One can easily rent a car both with or without a driver from anywhere in Taipei. The cars are run by both local providers and international brands. You can find the greatest selection at the city’s airport but at a heavy price. The concierge usually directs you to the nearest car rental service, many of which are located near the MTR stations. If you are planning to ride the car by yourself, you must have a valid international driver’s license. Self-driven cars are not a recommended option as the traffic tends to get very bad and the rules can be confusing.

2. Scooter rental

Renting a scooter is comparatively better to wade through the traffic. It costs about NT$500 per day and it is recommendable to buy a new helmet instead of using the ones provided by the rental shops. The vehicles are driven to the right-hand side and in the event of an accident, you should not move your car even if the accident took place at a major junction. You should call the car rental service provider and ask for the next step.

3. MRT – Best way to see Taipei

Taipei City’s MRT is the best way to see Taipei. It is cheap, quick, wheelchair-friendly, efficient, safe and convenient. The network covers more than a hundred stations on five of its lines across the entire city. Each of its routes is coded in a different color with a different number. One of its major advantages is that almost every major tourist attraction is connected with its network including other important districts, making it easy for travelers to tick off the destinations on their to-do list faster. All the trains run from six in the morning to midnight with announcements and signs in English and Chinese. You can also get a day pass for about NT$150 allowing unlimited travel on all lines for a day.

4. Bus

The bus system of Taipei is one of the cheapest modes of transportation to go about in the city. Regardless of the distance traveled, a flat rate is charged per city section. EasyCards are accepted and so is the money but in change. The system is made friendlier for the tourists as the signs read in both Chinese and English.

5. Taxi

The taxis are the most expensive way of transportation in Taipei but still cheap if we go by the international standards. The rides tend to get costlier during late night journeys, holidays, or for traveling inter-city as you end up paying the highway toll charges. Taipei’s taxi service is regarded highly for you would hardly notice any attempt at scamming a tourist as is more prevalent in other parts of the world as most taxis run on a meter and negotiate rarely. The drivers, unfortunately, wouldn’t speak much English. It is advisable to write your destination down. Services like Uber operate in the city but generally cost higher than the regular taxi service.