Money: How to Get Cash, ATMs & Currency
Taiwan is still a cash-loving culture, especially in local shops and night markets. While cards are accepted in many places, it’s smart to carry some New Taiwan Dollars (NTD) with you. Here’s how to manage your money while exploring the island.
🪙 Currency Basics
Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (TWD or NT$)
Common bills: NT$100, NT$500, NT$1000
Coins: NT$1, NT$5, NT$10, NT$50
💡 WRUGoing tip: Keep smaller bills for taxis, local eats, and smaller towns where change can be limited.
🏧 ATMs
ATMs are easy to find and most are foreign-card friendly.
Where to find them:
7-Eleven, FamilyMart, and Hi-Life (open 24/7 and usually accept international cards)
Taiwanese bank branches (like Bank of Taiwan or CTBC)
MRT stations, airports, and malls
✅ Look for the PLUS, Cirrus, or Maestro symbols on the ATM
✅ English menu options are usually available
✅ Maximum withdrawal is often NT$20,000–30,000 per transaction
Heads up: Some ATMs charge a small fee (around NT$100), depending on your home bank.
💳 Credit & Debit Cards
Credit cards are widely accepted in:
Department stores and chain restaurants
Hotels and large tourist attractions
Online bookings and train ticket machines
But cash is still king in:
Night markets
Small eateries and local vendors
Public buses and some taxis
💡 WRUGoing tip: Visa and Mastercard are your safest bet. American Express is hit or miss.
🏦 Currency Exchange
It’s best to exchange money at the airport, major banks, or authorized counters.
Bring your passport for ID.
Exchange rates are usually more favorable at banks than hotels or tourist areas.
Avoid unlicensed exchange services.
💡 Don’t bring traveler’s checks — they’re rarely accepted and hard to cash.
💡 Extra Tip: EasyCards Save Cash
Pick up an EasyCard (Taiwan’s reloadable transport card) at any MRT station or convenience store.
Works on trains, buses, MRT, some taxis, convenience stores, and even select restaurants
Recharge at kiosks or counters — and you can get a refund before you leave
