It is relatively inexpensive to travel in and around Taipei, as well as the entire island! Here are some highlights and tips from my inexpensive day trips from Taipei.
Tips for Inexpensive Day Trips from Taipei, Taiwan
Easy Card Easy Travel
Once you arrive invest in an Easycard. This little plastic card costs $100 TWD, then you just upload a cash balance. You can then use it at convenience stores for small transactions, on the buses, trains and tube lines. It is a great way to explore and saves you from having to find the exact change for public transport.
Day Trips from Taipei
There are a number of great day trips in and around Taipei including a visit to Yingge, Wulai, Yehliu but none as inexpensive as a visit to Taipei Zoo and a trip onboard the Maokong Gondola.
Sand Whale, Yehliu Geopark, Taiwan ©MDHardingGetting to Taipei Zoo & Maokong Gondola
The Wenhu or Brown MRT/Metro Line takes you directly from the city centre to both the Zoo and the Maokong Gondola. With departures every couple of minutes and the journey time depending on your departure station. We stayed in Da’an district with the metro only a convenient few minutes walk away, it was a great way to explore and took less than 30 minutes.
Taipei MRT/Metro MapTaipei Zoo
The Taipei zoo was only $60 TWD the most affordable zoo I have ever visited! It is also one of the longest operational zoos, at more than 100 years. I would recommend visiting the zoo first as it gives you more time to enjoy the day, other than rushing from Maokong Station back to the Zoo before closing time. The zoo has lots to see and enjoy with a food area by the entrance, specialised gift shops dedicated to Bear and Panda objects and of course a few animals. There is also the additional option of taking the trolley/train within the Zoo for an additional $5 TWD. Please allow at least 3 hours.
Maokong Gondola
The ride on the Maokong Gondola is an incredible one, with a variation in levels, altitudes and scenery. The station is just a few minutes walk from the Zoo entrance and past the MRT Station. You can also opt for a glass bottom car, which gives you a whole different perspective! The attraction has been operating since July 2007 and goes via four stations. Once at the top you can visit the oldest tea houses in the area and watch the sunset. There is also the additional option of jumping onboard the Maokong Tour Bus.
Top Tips
Did you know if you travel to both the zoo and Maokong Gondola on a weekday and pay with an Easycard, you can save $20 TWD? You can also receive a free transfer to the Maokong Tour Bus when you ride on the Maokong Gondola (Same day only).
There is a variety of accommodation available in Taipei and the surrounding areas. Why not book in advance to avoid disappointment. Perhaps you would like to visit the beautiful island of Taiwan via cruise ship? Do you have a top tip to share for inexpensive day trips from Taipei? Please comment and share below. Happy Travels:) x