Asia > 🇹🇼 Taiwan
The city by city Car or no Car advice for Taiwan can be broken down into three similar questions - do you need a car in Taiwan; is it worth it (based on costs), and ultimately - should you rent one? (a balance of the two).🚆 🚌⛴️ Do we need to rent a car in Taiwan?
These scores are based on the quality of public transport and other travel options. If these are good enough to see the main points of interest, then you don’t need to rent a car.
💰💶💳 Is it worth hiring a car in Taiwan?
These scores reflect the practical factors that affect whether renting a car is convenient, good value, and stress-free.
🏙️ Main Cities in Taiwan
| CITY | IATA | Score |
|---|---|---|
| Taichung | RMQ | |
| Taipei | TPE |
🚗 Should You Rent a Car in Taiwan?
Taiwan blends modern cities, rich landscapes, and world-class public transport. Whether you need to rent a car depends on your plans. If you’re sticking to cities, trains and buses do the job. If you want to get deep into nature, a car may help.
🚆 Why You Might Not Need a Car in Taiwan
High-Speed Rail (HSR)
Taiwan’s HSR runs from Taipei to Kaohsiung in 1.5–2 hours. Most of the line is elevated. That means you can enjoy sweeping views of rivers, cities, and mountains along the way.
Metro With a View
Taipei’s metro is efficient and elevated in many sections. The Brown Line is especially scenic. It glides above tree-lined streets and neighbourhood blocks.
Maokong Gondola
Looking for something more unique? Take the Maokong Gondola from Taipei Zoo metro. It climbs through lush hills and temples to a tea-growing area. The ride gives you stunning views of Taipei in a mountain frame.
East Coast Scenic Trains
Travel along the east coast by rail for landscapes you won’t forget. Trains to Hualien or Taitung pass cliffs, coastlines, and emerald hills.
Cycling
Taiwan is widely recognized as the birthplace of the modern mountain bike 🏔️🚴 — thanks to global brands like Giant and Merida, both founded on the island.
This legacy runs deep: it has shaped Taiwan into a cycling paradise, where high-quality bikes meet world-class trails. In the countryside, you’ll find rugged mountain routes through forests and national parks, especially in regions like Taichung, Hualien, and Sun Moon Lake. Many are purpose-built for off-road adventure, with rest stops and rider-friendly facilities.
In the cities, there’s a growing network of cycle paths and riverside trails, especially in Taipei and Taichung 🛣️. However, it’s still not nearly as comprehensive as what you’d find in cycling havens like the Netherlands or Denmark. Even so, Taiwan is steadily improving its infrastructure — and with its bike-friendly culture, it remains a fantastic destination for two-wheeled exploration.
🚘 When Renting a Car Makes Sense
For Mountain Escapes
Alishan, Sun Moon Lake, and the East Rift Valley have limited bus links. If you want full freedom here, a car makes sense.
For Group Travel
If you’re with family or in a group, splitting the cost of a rental can be cheaper than buying separate train or bus tickets.
🚙 Driving in Taiwan: Need to Know
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Taiwan drives on the right
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Roads are good, but mountain routes can be narrow
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Parking is tight in Taipei and Kaohsiung
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You’ll need an International Driving Permit (IDP)
💡 Car Rental Tips
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Rent at Taoyuan Airport (TPE) or Kaohsiung Airport (KHH) for the best choice
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Book early during holidays, like Lunar New Year
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Ask about drop-off fees if you’re not returning to the same city
🧭 Conclusion
So — should you rent a car in Taiwan?
✅ Yes, if nature trails, mountain drives, or rural stays are in your plan.
🚫 No, if you’re staying in cities or following the HSR.
Car or No Car Rating: 🚄🌏 Mostly No — Taiwan’s trains and metros cover most needs, but cars unlock quiet corners.
