Explore Taiwan: 15 Essential Apps You Need to Download
Planning a trip to Taiwan?
Whether you're exploring the vibrant streets of Taipei, tasting vegan street food at a night market, or hiking through the dramatic cliffs of Taroko Gorge, having the right digital tools can make your journey smoother and more rewarding.
In this guide, we’ve handpicked 15 must-have apps for visiting Taiwan that will help you navigate public transportation, find vegan-friendly food, translate menus, book budget accommodation, and uncover hidden local experiences.
From metro maps and currency converters to plant-based restaurant finders, these are the best travel apps for Taiwan — trusted by smart travellers who want to explore more and stress less.
Ready to upgrade your Taiwan trip planner? Let’s dive in!
Youbike
The YouBike and newly updated YouBike2 app provides access to shared bike networks in cities and towns throughout Taiwan. The app displays all the available bikes to rent, as well the battery status of electric bikes. YouBikes are the easiest and most scenic way to travel Taiwan’s charming streets, discovering hidden gems and taking in the local lifestyle. All you need is to register on the app with your Easy card.
Earthquake App
With over 281 earthquakes in Taiwan in 2023 alone, the official Earthquake app is a great way to get early warnings, find out about changing conditions and government advice.
Citymapper: Navigational skills
For comprehensive public transport information, look no further than the Citymapper app. Connected seamlessly by subways, buses, and even ferry lines, it features a weave of connectivity, allowing you to explore the most remote corners of Taiwan without missing out on the wonder of the moment.
Zocha Gogoro: scooter rental
Zocha offices can be found all around Taiwan. They make it super easy to rent a bike and explore the town - please note that the rent prices are different from town to town.
We rented the bike a few times during our stay in Taiwan and the process is simple. You can chose between automatic bikes, best for exploring national parks, or electric scooters to travel around cities. Zocha’s staff are very helpful and are always on hand to explain how everything works, like how to use the free battery exchange network for recharge your electric bike.
KKday
KKday is a similar website to Klook offering a wide selection of services: sim cards, tours & sightseeing, outdoor activities food & dining, and souvenirs.Book directly through the app to help plan your visit in Taiwan..
Taiwan weather: the only weather app you need
While the weather in Taiwan is beautiful, it can be unpredictable. Aside from notifications about changes, the app also tells you if it’s good weather to hang your laundry or even if there’s a typhoon building, flooding or any other natural disasters approaching. It’s particularly useful to track typhoons in real
Circuplus: TEA and Free water refill station map
Inspired by “Fengcha” - pots of free tea Taiwanese communities shared together in public, The Circuplus app points you to the nearest free water refil dispensers. There are over 10,000 dispensers and shops offering a free water refill around the island.
Like it formosa: Storyteller of Taiwan
Imagine exploring Taiwan like a local, led by enthusiastic guides who take you beyond the usual tourist spots. With likeitformosa.com that’s exactly what you get – a chance to dive into local life, discover ancient customs, walk the streets and hear all the history and events that had taken place there. So, as you plan your Taiwan trip, consider these fantastic free tours – your gateway to genuine experiences without straining your budget. The service is tip-based, and they recommend to leave £10 or as much as you’d like.
Google Lense
Imagine having a magical tool that seamlessly bridges language gaps and unlocks hidden insights – that’s where Google Lens steps in. You’ll need an internet connection on your device, and all you need to do is take a picture to instantly translate anything - shop signs, menus, documents and most importantly, ingredients on the back of packages.
Go! Taipei metro: urban explorer
Taipei is often the first stop for anyone traveling to Taiwan. The Go Taipei app is your virtual compass, providing real-time information on public transportation. It helps you to navigate Taipei metro lines and plan your journey. The app is a user-friendly interface and comprehensive maps - it also calculates how much the trip will cost you
Did you know?
Taiwan is ranked as the 3rd most technologically advanced territory in the world?
- Global Finance
Line: calls & messages
Line is like a suped up ‘whatsapp’ and the locals in Taiwan use the app to communicate easily, schedule meetings, contact businesses, book guesthouses and stays and message each other. The app allows you to engage in voice and video conversations, as well as effortlessly exchange voice memos and text messages. It also grants you access to exclusive events, special promotions and community projects.
T express
Avoid the queues. Navigating Taiwan’s vast west coast is surprisingly easy with the high-speed train, which offers the fastest route north and south of the island. The dedicated T Express app is an easy way to find train timetables and buy tickets easily.
Xe -converter
It’s incredibly convenient to have a money converter close at hand to keep your travel budget on track to explore exotic lands. XE Currency Converter eliminates the need for guesswork and complex calculations when tracking your spending. This user-friendly app monitors exchange rate changes from around 130 different currencies.
Papago: break the language barrier
The Papago app helps you break down the language barrier, some find it more accessible than Google Translate when it comes to the Mandarin language. It features real-time translation, instant translation of menus and any signage. Essential download to help you find and order plant based meals with ease.
Railway: smooth train rides
Plan to venture outside the capital? The TIP Railway app is your gateway to Taiwan’s efficient and beautiful railway system. Get up-to-date schedules, routes and ticketing information for local rail travel on the island.
