How to get from Taipei to Penghu Islands

Flying from Taipei to the Penghu Islands is by far the fastest way to reach this offshore paradise, but slower ferry routes via Chiayi or Kaohsiung offer a more scenic, budget-friendly journey if you have extra time and want to travel by sea.

At A Glance (Taipei to Penghu Islands)

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

• Fastest and easiest: For almost everyone, Option #1 – Direct Flight Taipei → Penghu is the best choice. Flights run many times per day, take around an hour, and are usually reasonably priced if you book a bit in advance.
• Cheapest and most scenic: If you like trains and boats and have time for a longer day, Option #2 – Train/HSR + Ferry via Chiayi/Budai can be cheaper and offers classic views of Taiwan’s countryside and coastline on the way to Penghu.
• Most convenient for short trips and first-time visitors: Travelers who want everything bundled (transport, hotel, sometimes scooter) will prefer Option #3 – Flight + Hotel / Package, especially for weekend or 3–4 day getaways.
• Best for smooth airport logistics: If you’re worried about early/late flights or traveling with kids and big bags, combine flights with Option #4 – Airport Transfers so you don’t have to think about metro lines or bus changes.

How to Book and Practical Tips

• Book flights early in busy seasons. Penghu is popular in spring and summer (especially around the Penghu Fireworks Festival), so reserve flights a few weeks ahead. Use aggregators like Booking.com Flights, 12Go or Trip.com to compare schedules and prices.
• Choose the right Taipei airport. Taipei Songshan (TSA) is closest to downtown and has very frequent flights to Penghu; Taoyuan (TPE) is better if you are transiting from international flights and don’t want to change airports.
• Line up your Penghu transport. Once you land in Magong, most people get around by scooter or rental car. You can pre-book scooters with pickup at the airport or harbor via Penghu scooter rentals on Klook or check global platforms like BikesBooking if you prefer comparing providers.
• Consider ferry seasonality and weather. Ferries from Budai (Chiayi) and Kaohsiung are more weather-dependent and may be reduced or suspended in winter or rough seas. Always check the latest schedules on official channels and with operators before planning your whole route around a boat.
• Use luggage storage to travel light. If you’re leaving big suitcases in Taipei, you can store them at station lockers or with networks like Radical Storage in Taipei and then fly to Penghu with just a small bag.
• Ride-hailing apps in Taipei. Around Taipei, Uber operates alongside local taxi apps like Taiwan Taxi (55688). They are handy for quick trips to/from airports or stations if you don’t want to deal with metro transfers.
• Check Penghu’s local transport passes. If you don’t ride scooters, look at the Penghu shuttle bus passes such as the tourist bus “Haoxing” routes, which you can book on platforms like Klook Penghu shuttle bus pass.

✈️ Option #1 — Direct Flight Taipei → Penghu (Most Popular, Fastest)

Fastest Frequent departures Weather-dependent

• Overview: Dozens of daily flights connect Taipei to Penghu’s Magong Airport (MZG), mostly from Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA), with some connections via Taoyuan (TPE). Airlines like Mandarin Airlines and Uni Air typically take around 50–60 minutes gate to gate.
• Typical schedule: In peak season there are morning, midday and evening departures, so you can line up your flight with hotel check-in or onward island tours. Early morning flights are perfect if you want to start exploring Penghu the same day.
• How to book (with price): Expect roughly TWD 1,200–2,500 one-way or TWD 2,400–5,000 round-trip, depending on dates and demand. Compare and book on Booking.com Flights (Taipei–Magong), scan flight times on 12Go, or look at additional options through Trip.com.
• Pros: Fastest and most reliable way to reach Penghu; multiple daily departures; easy to combine with international flights; great for short trips or if you want to maximize beach time.
• Cons: Prices spike around holidays and weekends; tickets can sell out in high season; occasional delays in typhoon season or heavy rain.
• Seat and baggage tips: Domestic flights are short, so you don’t need extra legroom unless you prefer it. Check baggage limits carefully—cheaper fares may have lower checked-luggage allowances, especially if booked through third-party sites.
• Official info: For same-day schedules and gate details, use the official Taipei Songshan Airport real-time flight board. For Penghu-side information, the Penghu National Scenic Area site has practical travel details and maps once you land.

Step-by-step: Direct Flight from Taipei to Penghu

1. Pick your airport and flight time. Decide whether you prefer Songshan (TSA) for its central location or are connecting through Taoyuan (TPE). Use Booking.com Flights, 12Go’s Taipei–Penghu page or Trip.com flights to compare times and fares.
2. Book your ticket. Once you find a convenient time, lock in your ticket and double-check the name spelling (matching passport) and baggage allowances. Save your e-ticket on your phone.
3. Get to the airport. From central Taipei, you can ride the MRT to Songshan Airport (Wenhu Line), grab a yellow cab, or use ride-hailing apps like Uber. If you want a pre-arranged car, book a private transfer with Welcome Pickups from Songshan or via Klook’s Songshan transfers.
4. Check in and board. For domestic flights, arrive at least 60–90 minutes early. Check in at the counter or self-service kiosk, drop checked luggage, then proceed through security to your gate.
5. Fly to Magong (Penghu). The flight is short; enjoy the views if it’s clear. On arrival at Magong Airport (MZG), pick up your bags and head to the arrivals hall.
6. Continue into Penghu. From the airport, take a taxi, hotel pickup, or a pre-booked scooter/car. For easy island transport, reserve a scooter via Klook’s Penghu scooter rental or check local car rentals listed on the Penghu NSA car rental information page.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taipei Songshan & Taoyuan Airports)

• From Taipei Main Station to Songshan Airport: Take the brown Wenhu MRT line directly to Songshan Airport Station, or a 15–20 minute taxi/Uber ride if you have bulky luggage.
• From central Taipei to Taoyuan Airport: Use the Taoyuan Airport MRT (express train from Taipei Main Station) or book a private transfer via GetTransfer or Welcome Pickups Taipei if you want door-to-door service.
• Luggage and timing: Aim to be at Songshan about 1–1.5 hours before departure, and at Taoyuan about 2 hours before, especially around weekends and holidays.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚄⛴️ Option #2 — Train/HSR + Ferry via Chiayi or Kaohsiung (Scenic, More Complex)

Lower cost Sea views Seasonal schedules

• Overview: If you prefer slow travel or flight tickets are expensive, you can journey from Taipei to Chiayi or Kaohsiung by train/HSR, then continue by ferry to Magong (Penghu). Depending on route and connections, total travel time is usually 5–8 hours.
• Main ferry routes: Fast and regular ferries run between Budai Port (Chiayi) or Kaohsiung Port and Magong’s Nanhai Harbor. Fast boats can take about 90 minutes–2 hours, while regular ferries are closer to 3–4 hours.
• How to book (with price): For Chiayi–Penghu, you can pre-book tickets via Klook’s Chiayi–Penghu ferry ticket or through tour packages that include transport and scooter rental. 12Go also lists Penghu routes under Penghu Ferry. Expect around TWD 1,000–1,600 one-way for a fast ferry, plus your train fare.
• Pros: Can be cheaper than last-minute flights; scenic coastal views; flexible if you’re already exploring central or southern Taiwan (Chiayi, Tainan, Kaohsiung).
• Cons: More connections to manage; ferries are highly weather-dependent; schedules can change or be canceled in winter or during rough seas; longer total travel time from Taipei.
• Official info: The Penghu NSA ferry information page lists current ports and general schedules, and individual operators like Taiji Star (Budai–Magong) post seasonal timetables and notices.

Step-by-step: Train/HSR + Ferry via Chiayi Budai Port

1. Travel from Taipei to Chiayi. Ride the Taiwan High Speed Rail (THSR) from Taipei to Chiayi HSR Station (around 1.5 hours), or take a regular TRA train from Taipei Main Station to Chiayi City (longer, but cheaper).
2. Transfer to Budai Harbor. From Chiayi HSR or Chiayi City, take a bus or taxi to Budai Port. Travel time is roughly 1–1.5 hours depending on traffic and exact departure point.
3. Check in for the ferry. Arrive at the port at least 30–45 minutes early to exchange vouchers, check bags if required, and board. For discounted or pre-booked tickets, use platforms like Klook Chiayi–Penghu ferry or relevant listings on Trip.com Budai–Magong ferries.
4. Sail to Magong (Penghu). Enjoy the ride and bring seasickness pills if needed. In high season, fast ferries are usually smoother and quicker than older vessels.
5. Arrive at Magong Harbor. On arrival, follow signs to the terminal exit. Taxis, hotel shuttles and scooter rentals often wait near the pier. You can also join multi-day packages that include ferry plus scooter/hotel, such as Klook’s 3D2N Penghu package.

Getting to the main embarking points (Chiayi Budai & Kaohsiung Ports)

• Budai Port (Chiayi): From Chiayi HSR or TRA station, shuttle buses and local buses run towards Budai, or you can hire a taxi/private car (use Uber or local taxis where available, or pre-book a car charter on platforms like GetTransfer).
• Kaohsiung Port: If you’re already in southern Taiwan, you can also sail from Kaohsiung. Reach the harbor area by Kaohsiung MRT, bus or taxi, then follow your operator’s instructions for the exact terminal.
• Time buffers: Because ferries may be delayed or canceled due to weather, avoid making tight same-day international flight connections on your return.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🧳 Option #3 — Flight + Hotel / Package & Island Tours (Easy Planning)

Bundled Time-saving Less flexible

• Overview: If you’d rather not piece together flights, ferries, and island transport yourself, consider a Penghu package. These often include round-trip ferry or flight tickets, hotel stays and scooter rental, or combine transport with guided island-hopping tours.
• Types of packages: Popular options are 3D2N or 4D3N trips that bundle hotel + transport + scooter, or DIY packages where you pick your preferred hotel from a list. Some include day tours to outlying islands like Qimei or Wang’an.
• How to book (with price): Look at Penghu packages on Klook’s multi-day Penghu package or similar deals like Penghu 3D2N free-and-easy tours. Prices vary widely by season and hotel level, but budgeting TWD 6,000–12,000+ per person for a short break is a reasonable starting point.
• Pros: Minimal planning; clear inclusions; great if you don’t speak Chinese; some packages provide local support and simple add-ons like marine activities or boat trips to other islets.
• Cons: Fixed dates and schedules; less flexibility to change hotel or island-hopping plans; you may pay more than fully DIY if you’re an expert planner.

Step-by-step: Using a Penghu Package

1. Decide your travel style and dates. Choose whether you want a ferry-based or flight-based package, and how many nights you’ll stay. Consider visiting between late spring and early autumn for better weather.
2. Browse package listings. Search “Penghu” under multi-day tours on Klook Penghu or look at curated experiences and day trips on Trip.com Penghu experiences. Check what’s included: transport type, hotel category, breakfasts, scooter rental, and insurance.
3. Confirm inclusions and fine print. Make sure the starting point (for example, Budai Port, Kaohsiung, or Penghu Airport) matches where you’ll be. Verify language support, cancellation policies, and any license needed for scooters.
4. Reserve securely online. Book via the platform, pay, and keep all vouchers handy (often in an app). You may need to reconfirm ferry or flight times a few days before departure.
5. Add extra nights or tours. If the package doesn’t cover all your days, you can top up with additional hotel nights on Booking.com Magong hotels or standalone island tours from Klook Penghu tours.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taipei City & Package Meeting Points)

• Meeting points in Taipei: Some packages start directly from Taipei (for example, including train + ferry). In that case, be at the designated MRT station, bus stop or railway station on time; the operator will specify the exact spot.
• Self-arranged approaches: If the package starts in Chiayi, Kaohsiung or directly in Penghu, you are usually responsible for getting to the start point. Combine regular flights (Option #1) or train/ferry (Option #2) with the package schedule.
• In-city transport: Use the Taipei MRT, buses, or ride-hailing apps like Uber to reach your meeting point. For late-night or early-morning starts, consider an overnight stay near Taipei Main Station or Songshan Airport for convenience.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚕 Option #4 — Airport Transfers & Luggage Solutions (Add-ons)

Door-to-door Great with kids/big bags Extra cost

• Overview: While this option doesn’t replace flights or ferries, combining your main route with smart transfers and luggage storage can make a big difference—especially if you’re coming straight from or going to other parts of Taiwan or abroad.
• Airport transfers in Taipei: Besides the MRT and buses, you can book private transfers to/from Songshan and Taoyuan via services like Welcome Pickups Taipei or Klook airport transfers, or simply use Uber for on-demand rides.
• Luggage storage in Taipei: If you’re only taking a small bag to Penghu, store large suitcases near Taipei Main Station or major MRT hubs using station lockers or a service like Radical Storage Taipei.
• Island transport add-ons: After you land in Penghu, consider reserving scooter or car rentals ahead of time. Besides Klook and local shops, you can compare international options on BikesBooking or check Penghu’s official car rental list on the Penghu NSA transport page.

Getting to the main embarking points (Hotels, Stations & Airports)

• From hotel to airport: Ask your hotel to call a taxi, or book a timed pickup via Welcome Pickups, Klook or GetTransfer so you reach Songshan/Taoyuan with time to spare.
• Between stations and airports: If you arrive in Taipei by HSR or TRA train, it’s easy to transfer to the Songshan or Taoyuan lines using MRT or taxi. HSR Taipei Main Station connects directly to the Airport MRT for Taoyuan.
• Arriving back from Penghu: You can schedule your transfer back into Taipei for some last-minute sightseeing or dinner before an international flight, especially if you’ve stored luggage in the city.
• Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Taipei to Penghu Islands)

How long does it take to travel from Taipei to the Penghu Islands?
For most travelers flying from Taipei Songshan to Magong in Penghu, door-to-door time is around 3–4 hours: about 30–60 minutes to reach the airport, 50–60 minutes of flight time, and another 20–30 minutes to collect luggage and transfer to your hotel.

Do I need a passport to fly from Taipei to Penghu?
Penghu is part of Taiwan, so it’s considered a domestic route. Taiwanese citizens use their national ID. Foreign visitors normally travel with their passport, the same document used to enter Taiwan. You do not pass through regular immigration again, but airlines will check ID at check-in and boarding.

Which airport in Taipei is better for flights to Penghu?
Most travelers prefer Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) because it is much closer to downtown and has frequent flights to Penghu. However, if you are arriving on an international flight into Taoyuan (TPE) and don’t want to change airports, you might route your trip via Taoyuan and connect to Penghu from there when available.

Is the ferry from Taiwan to Penghu safe, and how rough is the sea?
Ferries to Penghu are generally safe and follow local maritime regulations, but sailings are highly weather-dependent. In winter or during strong winds, boats may be delayed or canceled and seas can be choppy. If you are prone to seasickness or have limited flexibility, flying is usually more comfortable and reliable.

Is it better to rent a scooter or rely on buses in Penghu?
Most independent travelers choose scooters for maximum flexibility, as attractions are spread out and traffic is light. You’ll need a suitable license (international or local) and should be comfortable riding in windy coastal conditions. If you don’t ride, island shuttle buses and tourist bus passes are available, and you can join organized tours or hire a car with driver.

This guide was researched and written by Jacob, and it was last updated on July 10, 2026. 0 people found this post useful.

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