There are 2 way(s) to get from Taoyuan City to Taichung
Select an option below to see the route details and compare prices. Secure booking via our partner 12go.asia.
Practical tips
For Taoyuan to Taichung, the THSR is faster but the TRA train is significantly cheaper and still comfortable. Don't overpay if you're not in a rush; the TRA might be your best value, especially if you're connecting from Taoyuan Airport without a tight schedule.
THSR Taoyuan Station and Taichung Station are usually outside city centers, requiring a short taxi or local train/bus transfer. TRA stations (like Taoyuan TRA and Taichung TRA) are typically more central. Factor this into your door-to-door travel time.
Book your THSR, TRA, and express bus tickets online in advance to secure seats and avoid queues, especially during peak travel times. Websites like 12go.asia or BaoLau.vn offer convenient booking for various transport options.
Remember, places like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are exclusively accessible by bus from major TRA or THSR hubs. Don't expect a train connection directly to these stunning mountain areas. Plan your bus transfers carefully.
For islands like Green Island or Penghu, you'll need a ferry or a flight. Check schedules and book well in advance, especially for ferries, as they can sell out. Flights are quicker but often more expensive; weigh your options based on budget and time.
🛣️ The journey experience
Navigating Taiwan's transport can seem a bit complex at first, with its mix of rapid THSR, slower TRA trains, and a network of express buses. For your journey from Taoyuan to Taichung, we'll cut straight to the chase: you have excellent, clear options, whether you prioritize speed or value. No need to worry about hidden bus-only routes or ferry connections here; it’s a straightforward train or bus decision.
From Taoyuan to Taichung, your primary choices are the THSR (High Speed Rail), the TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) train, or an express bus. The THSR is your fastest bet, zipping you there in about 1 hour for around €11. The TRA train, while slower, offers a more traditional rail experience and is often cheaper. Express buses are also a solid contender, taking roughly 2 hours and costing about €8.
When planning your Taiwan adventure, always remember that while the THSR is great for the west coast, many scenic spots like Sun Moon Lake, Alishan, and Taroko Gorge are exclusively reachable by bus. For city-to-city travel on the west coast, you're usually choosing between speed and budget. For this route, consider your overall travel pace for the day. If you're heading straight to Taichung for more sightseeing, the THSR saves valuable time, but a bus or TRA train is perfectly viable if you're not in a rush and prefer to save a few euros.
Frequently asked questions — Taoyuan City → Taichung
You have three main options: the THSR (High Speed Rail), the TRA (Taiwan Railways Administration) train, and express buses. The THSR is the fastest, the TRA is a good balance of cost and comfort, and express buses are the most budget-friendly.
The THSR takes about 1 hour and costs around €11. Express buses take roughly 2 hours and cost about €8. The TRA train is slower, often 2-3 hours, but can be cheaper than the THSR, typically around €7-9, depending on the service.
If you're budget-conscious and not in a rush, a TRA train or express bus is definitely smarter. The time difference isn't massive, and you save a significant amount. However, if time is your priority and you're willing to pay more, the THSR is unbeatable for speed.
You can book THSR and TRA tickets directly on their official websites or via platforms like 12go.asia and BaoLau.vn for convenience, which also offer bus tickets. Booking online ensures instant confirmation and secures your seat, especially for popular routes and times.
✨ Why visit Taichung?
- ✓ Explore the vibrant street art and unique architecture of Rainbow Village.
- ✓ Indulge in a boba tea tasting tour, Taichung is the birthplace of bubble tea.
- ✓ Visit the Gaomei Wetlands for stunning sunsets and rich biodiversity.
- ✓ Discover the creative hub of the National Taiwan Museum of Fine Arts.
- ✓ Enjoy a scenic bike ride along the Houli Bicycle Path and see the Flower Drum Art Park.
☀️ When to visit Taichung?
SUBTROPICAL HUMID
October to April — pleasant temperatures, less humidity, and lower chance of rain, ideal for outdoor activities.
What to do in Taichung?
Local experiences, must-see sights and activities selected for you
⏱️ How long to visit Taichung?
For an independent francophone traveler, Taichung warrants at least 2 days to explore its urban core and some unique spots like Gaomei Wetlands. If you wish to venture into nearby mountains or cultural villages, allocate 3-4 days. Focus on specific interests to maximize your time.
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