How to get to Taiwan and what to expect

Taipei’s night markets are one of our favorite ways to explore the city and try Taiwanese classics, from bubble tea to stinky tofu.

Our wedding falls on October 10, Taiwan’s Double Ten Day national holiday. Flights and hotels may fill up quickly, so we recommend making your travel plans early.

Our Renaissance Taipei Shihlin Hotel room block is fully booked and closed. You can still check the hotel’s website for availability. Wedding-day shuttles will depart from the hotel at 4:10pm; see Events for transportation details.

Getting to Taiwan

Taipei has two airports

  • Taoyuan International Airport (TPE): The main international hub, about 40–50 minutes from central Taipei. Most long-haul flights from the U.S. arrive here.

  • Songshan Airport (TSA): A smaller airport closer to downtown Taipei, mostly for domestic and regional flights (Tokyo, Seoul, Shanghai, etc.).

Flights from the U.S.

There are direct flights from Seattle on EVA Air, Starlux, Delta, and China Airlines, as well as easy one-stop options through Tokyo, Seoul, or San Francisco.

Entry & Visa

U.S. passport holders don’t need a visa for stays under 90 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates.

Getting Around Taiwan

Within Taipei

  • MRT (Subway): Clean, fast, and easy to use. You can buy a rechargeable EasyCard for the subway, buses, and even convenience stores.

  • Taxis & Ride Apps: Taxis are plentiful and affordable. Uber also operates in Taipei.

  • Walking: Many neighborhoods (like Da’an, Xinyi, and Zhongshan) are pedestrian-friendly with great food and shopping nearby.

Day Trips & Beyond

  • High-Speed Rail (HSR): Runs from Taipei down the west coast, great for day trips to Taichung, Tainan, or Kaohsiung.

  • Trains & Buses: Scenic routes run along the east coast to spots like Hualien and Taroko Gorge.

  • Car Rentals: Possible but not recommended unless you’re exploring remote mountain or coastal areas.

Make a Trip of It

If you have extra time, we’d love for you to explore more of Taiwan! Here are a few of our favorite ideas:

  • Hot springs and relaxation: Explore Beitou in northern Taipei, or unwind at Volando Urai in Wulai, about an hour outside the city.

  • Food adventures: Head to Tainan or Taichung for more delicious food and bubble tea.

  • Atmospheric day trips: Wander Jiufen’s lanes for a little Studio Ghibli-inspired magic, then visit Shifen for its lanterns.

  • Beach time: Head to Taiwan’s southern tip for a beach getaway.

Thinking of adding another stop? Some places we’ve loved visiting include Japan, Vietnam, Korea, Hong Kong, and Malaysia.