Generally speaking the best way to get around Taipei is to use public transportation. That’s an excellent system of public transportation here and locals say it’s truly the best way to see this beautiful city and get from point A to point B.

Metro Taipei is the train system in Taipei. Six major routes connect the cities and districts of Taipei County and since trains run often, this is the system that will get you where you need to go quickly and efficiently. Locals say the trains are punctual, so you need to be as well, and waits can range from as little as 2 minutes during peak times to as much as 15 minutes during off-peak times. Using the metro helps the time-strapped tourists to avoid traffic congestion in downtown Taipei. Buy a prepaid Metro Easycard for NT$500, comprising NT$100 refundable deposit and NT$400 stored value which is more than sufficient for a week-long stay. The Easycard can also be used on most buses and helps you save up to 20% of single trip fares. On the last day of your trip, get a refund on your deposit and unused stored value from any ticket office in the metro station, minus a nominal NT$20 administrative fee.

If you’re not averse to taking the bus, try using this method to get around Taipei. These aren’t the buses many tourists will liken to the dirty, questionable buses from back home. Buses in Taipei are clean, new, comfortable and sometimes a preferred way to get to where you’re going. Locals recommend buying a bus guide and tapping into your driver’s expertise to get where you want to go.

Cabs are an option in Taipei, though it’s a more expensive option than riding the bus or train. You can also rent a car here, but most visitors and locals say it’s the worst way to try and get around Taipei. As you figure out the rules of the road and focus on your driving, you’ll miss out on some essential sites. In addition, parking can be hard to find and expensive. Most agree it’s better to leave the driving to someone else.