Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport
Taipei, TW · 40 km (25 mi) west of Taipei
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| CitiAir Bus 1960 Bus · Every 20-30 min · roughly early morning to late evening | 60-80 min TPE–Xinyi | $4-5 |
| Hotel Shuttle Novotel Taoyuan Airport Hotel shuttle · Roughly every 30-60 min · schedule varies by time of day | 5-10 min hotel–TPE | $0 (complimentary for guests, taxi backup ~$5-10) |
| Intercity Coach to Kaohsiung Coach · Roughly every 30-60 min across operators · day and some night runs | 4-5.5 hr TPE–Kaohsiung | $20-25 |
| Intercity Coach to Taichung Coach · Every 20-40 min · roughly early morning to late evening | 2-3 hr TPE–Taichung | $10-15 |
Insider notes
Save money by taking the Taoyuan Airport MRT to Taipei for $4-6 instead of a $30-40 taxi ride.
The observation deck in Terminal 2 offers superior runway views from 06:30 to 22:30. Don’t be surprised by a bag check upon entry.
Transfer smoothly between terminals with the 24-hour Skytrain, pressing the call button after midnight for service.
Welcome
Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) gives long layovers a taste of Taiwan through its local brands, cultural touches, and efficient services. Unlike some sprawling mega-hubs, it retains a calm and human-scaled ambiance. The airport features plane-spotting decks and curated Taiwanese shops like the pineapple cake haven. Situated 40 km west of Taipei, TPE acts as a gateway with airport-loyal national carriers, China Airlines, EVA Air, and Starlux Airlines.
At a glance
Handling 48.5 million passengers a year, TPE is a busy yet efficiently managed hub. With T1 and T2, it is home to major airlines and offers diverse connections. Its serious plane-spotters' decks and themed concourses underscore an emphasis on local culture. The seamless access to Taipei via the MRT exemplifies the airport’s focus on creating accessible travel experiences.
Terminals & layout
Terminal 1 is primarily served by China Airlines, EVA Air, and Starlux Airlines, while Terminal 2 hosts carriers like Cathay Pacific, Korean Air, and ANA. Each terminal is a mini city with dining options ranging from Chun Shui Tang in T2 to Hi-Life Cafe in T1. A Skytrain links the terminals, running every 2-6 minutes during the day and requires a call button press at night.
Getting to and from the city
The Taoyuan Airport MRT is a transformative link to Taipei, whisking travelers from TPE to Taipei Main Station in 35-38 minutes on the express train, at a cost of $4-6. Buses such as the Kuo-Kuang Bus 1819 and taxis provide alternatives, though the MRT remains unbeatable for cost and efficiency, except after midnight.
Traveller essentials
Wi-Fi is complimentary but can be inconsistent; an eSIM might be worthwhile if you plan to stream or work. If you have luggage and need to relax, the indoor 5F areas offer seating and a 24-hour convenience store. Immigration times have spikes with midnight arrivals; the e-Gate program helps frequent flyers expedite the process.
Dining & shopping highlights
TPE doesn’t disappoint with its culinary offerings. Grab bubble tea at the iconic Chun Shui Tang or a quick bite at Mos Burger in T1 and T2. For snacks and gifts, explore Taiwanese brands at the Ever Rich Duty Free stores. However, prepare for limited late-night options, as some cafes and restaurants close early.
Lounges
The lounges at T1 and T2 offer havens of tranquility, from the China Airlines Dynasty Lounge to the EVA Air Infinity Lounge. For premium experiences, the Cathay Pacific Lounge in T1 and Singapore Airlines SilverKris Lounge in T2 deliver spacious luxury. If you need a shower but aren’t a lounge member, free public showers are available airside.
Insider tips
- Money: Save money by taking the Taoyuan Airport MRT to Taipei for $4-6 instead of a $30-40 taxi ride.
- Insider: The observation deck in Terminal 2 offers superior runway views from 06:30 to 22:30. Don’t be surprised by a bag check upon entry.
- Time: Transfer smoothly between terminals with the 24-hour Skytrain, pressing the call button after midnight for service.
- Quiet: The 5F landside areas with 24-hour seating in both terminals offer relatively quiet spaces for resting or working.
- Avoid: Many dining options close by 22:00, so eat early or rely on convenience stores and vending machines.
- Local: Crowds might miss the curated pineapple cake selections airside; try them for authentic local flavors.
- Time: With a layover over 6 hours, consider a quick MRT trip into central Taipei for a bowl of beef noodle soup, keeping return security in mind.