Safety Tips for Travellers: Taipei, Taiwan
Taipei is one of Asia's most underrated travel destinations, blending futuristic skylines with ancient temples, world-class street food, and some of the friendliest locals you'll ever meet. But even in one of the safest cities on the planet, a little preparation goes a long way. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned Asia traveller, these safety tips will help you make the most of your time in Taiwan's vibrant capital.
Overview
Taipei consistently ranks among the safest cities in Asia and the world. With a population of around 2.6 million, it offers a rare combination of urban energy and genuine safety for solo travellers, families, and couples alike. Petty crime is low, scams are uncommon, and locals are famously helpful to tourists who look lost. The city is also incredibly well-connected by public transport, making it easy to explore without relying on taxis or ride-shares. Key attractions include the iconic Taipei 101 tower, the bustling Shilin Night Market, the historic Jiufen Old Street, and the culturally rich National Palace Museum.
Essential Information
- Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (TWD). Roughly 30 TWD equals $1 USD. ATMs are widely available and reliable.
- Language: Mandarin is the official language, but English is spoken in tourist areas, hotels, and most MRT stations.
- Visa: Many nationalities including US, UK, EU, and Australian passport holders can enter visa-free for 90 days.
- Emergency Numbers: Police: 110 | Ambulance and Fire: 119 | Tourist Hotline: 0800-011-765 (24/7, English available)
- Health: Taiwan has excellent healthcare. Travel insurance is strongly recommended, but medical costs are relatively affordable compared to Western countries.
- Weather risks: Typhoon season runs from May to October. Monitor forecasts through the Central Weather Bureau and follow local guidance if a typhoon warning is issued.
Practical Safety Tips
- Stay aware on scooters: Taipei's streets are flooded with scooters, especially at intersections. Always use pedestrian crossings and never assume a green light means it's safe to step out.
- Use the MRT: The Taipei Metro (MRT) is clean, punctual, and extremely safe. A single journey costs between $0.60 and $1.50 USD. Grab an EasyCard for seamless travel on buses and trains.
- Stick to well-lit areas at night: Taipei is safe after dark, but quieter neighbourhoods like Wanhua can feel more isolated late at night. Stick to Da'an, Zhongshan, or Xinyi districts for vibrant and well-populated nightlife.
- Watch your belongings at night markets: Shilin and Raohe Night Markets get crowded. Keep bags zipped and in front of you to avoid opportunistic theft, which while rare, can happen in dense crowds.
- Tap water caution: The tap water is technically treated but locals recommend drinking filtered or bottled water. Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and FamilyMart sell large bottles for under $0.50 USD.
- Earthquakes: Taiwan is seismically active. Familiarise yourself with basic earthquake safety — drop, cover, and hold on. Most modern hotels are built to strict earthquake codes.
- Download useful apps: Google Maps works brilliantly in Taipei. Also download the Taiwan Railways app and grab a local SIM card at the airport for around $10 USD for 30 days of data.
Getting There
Taipei is served by Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE), located about 40 kilometres west of the city centre. It is one of Asia's major hub airports with direct flights from the United States (Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York via connections), the UK (London Heathrow with a stopover), Australia (Sydney, Melbourne), and across Asia. Airlines including EVA Air, China Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Singapore Airlines offer competitive fares. From TPE, the Airport MRT connects to Taipei Main Station in around 35 minutes for just $5 USD, making it one of the most affordable and stress-free airport transfers in Asia.
Accommodation Options
Taipei offers excellent value across all budget levels, and staying in the right neighbourhood makes a big difference to your experience.
- Budget ($30–$60/night): Hostels and guesthouses in the Zhongzheng or Gongguan districts offer clean, safe rooms close to the MRT. Star Hostel Taipei Main Station is a popular and well-reviewed option.
- Mid-range ($80–$150/night): The Da'an and Zhongshan districts are ideal for mid-range travellers, with boutique hotels, great restaurants, and easy metro access. Check out the Dandy Hotel or Palais de Chine for solid comfort and style.
- Luxury ($200+/night): The Xinyi district, home to Taipei 101, is where Taipei's luxury properties shine. The Mandarin Oriental and W Taipei deliver world-class service, rooftop pools, and stunning city views.
Plan your trip to Taipei
Taipei is a destination that rewards curious, open-minded travellers with incredible food, rich culture, and a warmth that's hard to find elsewhere. With the right preparation and these safety tips in hand, you're set for an unforgettable trip. Ready to start planning? Book your flights and accommodation today and discover why so many travellers return to Taipei year after year.