Taipei Airport Guide – Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport Information

If you are flying into Taipei, it is likely that you will be arriving at the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE, Taipei Airport). Located about 25 miles outside of Taipei, Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport currently has two terminals in use. Though, a third is under construction, and a fourth is planned. As both terminals are used for international arrivals and departures, travelers should be sure and check which terminal they should use, as they vary by airline.

Intro to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport

The number of passengers Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (airport TPE) serves per year is almost 45 million, and the airport is also responsible for approximately 246,104 aircraft movements as well about 2.3 billion airfreight movements (kg), meaning Taipei Airport is busy throughout the year.

There are two additional airports that are in service in the area: one is called the Taipei Songshan Airport (officially named the Taipei International Airport), and it is a smaller airport, as well as a military base that is located in Songshan, Taipei. Taipei Songshan Airport primarily provides services to locations in Taiwan, as well as other locations in Asia, including Seoul, Tokyo, mainland China, and other countries. The other airport is the Kaohsiung International Airport, which is the hub for a few major airlines, including China Airlines and Eva Air.

These two Taipei airports aren’t as widely used for international flights, however, so it’s good to be aware of them in case you are traveling throughout Asia from Taipei, as either may act as a hub or departure point for some destinations in the country and beyond.

Shopping & things to do at Taipei Airport

Whether you’re stopping through on a layover or waiting for your flight to depart, there is much to see and do – like shopping, getting a massage and viewing art – at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport.

• Duty-Free If you’re on a layover, or heading back home, head to the duty-free shops and grab some gifts, books, spirits or other items as you wait.
• Art Gallery at Terminal 2: Though there are small art and cultural exhibits all around the airport, there is also a dedicated gallery in Terminal 2 for you to explore as you wait for your flight.
• Blind Massage Friend Center: This unique experience is supported by the Taoyuan County professional trade union and helps provide the visually impaired with work. It also enables you to get a great massage as you wait for your departure flight.
• Hello Kitty store (Terminal 2): This fun gift shop featuring Hello Kitty merchandise also provides a play area for kids.

Best places to eat at Taipei Airport

There are plenty of great food options available at Taipei Airport. From international dishes to local offerings, you can have your pick of delicious foods.

• Aoba Shokudo: If you’re looking for authentic Taiwanese cuisine, look no further than Aoba Shokudo, which specializes in pork knuckles, traditional sweet potato porridge, and other local foods.
• Pian Piano Italian Restaurant: A part of the famous Chou’s Shrimp Rolls group, this restaurant features Italian food that takes the “slow food” movement to heart. Dishes are made with fresh ingredients and hormone-free meats imported from Italy.
• Burger King: This fast food option is always available for travelers longing for a familiar taste.

Bars, lounges, & nightlife

There is a great selection of bars and lounges to choose from at the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport.

• SUNBAI Bar (T1): Located right inside Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, SUNBAI Bar offers local craft beer, both bottled and draft, and small snack plates.
• Plaza Premium Lounges: There are a few premium lounges located around Taipei Airport. You need a premium ticket or to pay an entrance fee to enter. Small food plates are offered as well as alcoholic beverages. These lounges are great places to relax at affordable prices between or prior to flying.
• Q Bar: Just a short metro ride away from Taipei Airport, this bar offers small plates great for sharing, as well as cocktails and other alcoholic beverages.

Transportation options

If you are traveling to or from the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport you’ll be happy to know it is a very well connected airport and that there are multiple choices for transportation available.

The Taipei MRT, more commonly known as the Taipei Metro, is connected to the airport, and if you’re looking to travel into the city, you can reach Taipei Main Metro Station in less than 40 minutes from either terminal. There are two metro trains that can take you into Taipei, the Express Train and the Commuters Train. Be certain to take the Express Train, as the Commuters Train is slower.

Buses also connect the airport to the city. Buses depart from Terminal 1 at B1 Arrivals and from Terminal 2 at the northeast arcade of the Arrivals lobby (first floor). There are multiple bus lines running to many parts of the city, so you will need to decide where in the city you want to go before choosing a bus. Bus No. 1819 will take you to Taipei Main Station; it operates 24 hours a day and leaves every 15 to 20 minutes.

Additionally, you also may wish to rent either a car or hire a taxi. Both services are available from the airport. While these options are more expensive than taking public transit, they also are convenient. Car rental services are available in both terminals, and taxi queues are located just outside of the Arrivals halls for both terminals. Taxis are available 24 hours a day.

If you are uncertain about which method of travel would be best, you can seek advice from the Tourist Service Centers, available in both terminals at the airport.