Essential Apps for Travelers in Taiwan
Mobile apps make getting around Taiwan much easier, from Taipei's MRT to high-speed rail, food delivery, and mobile payments. Start with these essential downloads before you land.
Before You Arrive in Taiwan
- Install LINE before you arrive: many local restaurants, activity providers, and services use LINE for confirmations and contact.
- Download offline maps for your first city or route in Google Maps so you can navigate as soon as you land, even before local mobile data is active.
Top Apps for Travelers in Taiwan
LINE
Language: English, Traditional Chinese
The default messaging app in Taiwan, also used for LINE Pay, official accounts, restaurant reservations, and local service contact. Use it to chat with hosts, scan QR codes, and pay at participating stores.
Google Maps
Language: English, Traditional Chinese
Provides English directions for Taipei MRT, buses, rail, walking, and driving. Use the transit layer and offline maps for navigation when you do not yet have local data.
Uber
Language: English, Traditional Chinese
Ride-hailing in major Taiwan cities, including Taipei, Taoyuan, Taichung, and Kaohsiung. Use it to request rides in English and pay with an international credit card.
Foodpanda
Language: English, Traditional Chinese
Food and grocery delivery from local restaurants, convenience stores, and supermarkets. Set your delivery address, browse in English, and pay by cash or card.
Uber Eats
Language: English, Traditional Chinese
Restaurant and convenience store delivery with many local options. Use it to browse English menus, schedule orders, and track deliveries.
Google Translate
Language: English, Traditional Chinese, and many more
Useful for reading menus, signs, and labels with the camera, or for conversation mode in Mandarin Chinese. Download offline language packs for use without data.
T-EX行動購票
Language: English, Traditional Chinese
Official Taiwan High Speed Rail ticketing app. Buy reserved or non-reserved seats and use a QR-code mobile ticket to pass through station gates.
Easy Wallet
Language: Traditional Chinese, English
Manage EasyCard stored-value cards, check balances, and use mobile payment at participating stores. Handy if you use an EasyCard for MRT, buses, and YouBike.
YouBike 2.0
Language: English, Traditional Chinese
Official bike-share app for finding YouBike docking stations, real-time bike availability, and nearby routes. Use with an EasyCard or credit card to rent bikes in Taipei and other cities.
Tips for Using Apps in Taiwan
- Buy a local SIM or eSIM with data at the airport or online before arrival; most local apps and ride-hailing need a reliable connection.
- Set up your payment method in Uber, Foodpanda, and Uber Eats ahead of time; some smaller local services may only take local cards or cash.
- Carry some cash or an EasyCard as backup: many night markets and smaller shops do not accept international mobile payments.
Conclusion
With these apps ready, you'll spend less time on logistics and more time exploring Taiwan. Download them before your trip and check for updates once you arrive.