Taipei Travel Guide

Taipei, the vibrant capital of Taiwan, offers a blend of modern comfort, rich culture, and excellent tournament poker.

If you’re planning your first poker trip to Taipei, you’re in for something special. The city is a blend of modern energy, friendly locals, incredible food, and a growing poker scene anchored by the Asia Poker Arena, home to the CTP Club — one of Asia’s most respected poker venues.

Whether you’re chasing trophies, grinding side events, or just exploring a new poker destination, this guide covers everything you need to know — from transport and accommodation to food, nightlife, and off-table experiences.

ASIA POKER ARENA

The venue for the Ola Poker Tour is the Asia Poker Arena located at 10491, Taiwan, Taipei City, Zhongshan District, Section 1, Jianguo N Rd.

Located just a 35-minute drive from Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE). The city has a modern metro system (MRT), taxis and ride-share (e.g., Uber) are available.

From Taoyuan Airport to City:

1. Airport MRT (Purple Line) → Taipei Main Station (35 min, ~NT$160 / €5).
2. Taxi or Uber from airport → downtown (~NT$1,200 / €35).
3. Private transfer for late-night arrivals (~NT$1,500–1,800).

Taipei Songshan Airport (TSA) is a smaller domestic airport, just 15 min from the Asia Poker Arena.

Getting Around Taipei:

• MRT (Metro) – clean, safe, fast.
• Taxis & Uber are plentiful and affordable (~NT$150–300 for short trips).
• Walking is pleasant and safe, especially in Zhongshan District.

A smart tip: get a transport card (like the “EasyCard”) for convenience.

Where to stay:

For poker convenience, stay close to Zhongshan District, where the Asia Poker Arena is located. It’s central, walkable, and packed with restaurants and cafes.

Area	Description
Zhongshan District	Closest to the poker room, full of restaurants & nightlife
Xinyi District	Upscale area near Taipei 101
Da’an District	Trendy, food-rich, slightly quieter

MONEY & SIMS

• Currency: New Taiwan Dollar (TWD)
• ATMs widely available; foreign cards accepted.
• SIM cards: Buy at airport (Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile) – 5-day unlimited data ≈ NT$300–500.
• Tap-to-pay widely supported (Apple Pay, Line Pay, etc.).

TAIPEI SIGHTSEEING

Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall – Iconic landmark surrounded by beautiful gardens.

Taipei 101 Observatory – Ride one of the world’s fastest elevators for stunning skyline views.

Elephant Mountain Hike – Short hike with panoramic views of Taipei 101 — ideal for sunset.

National Palace Museum – World-class cultural stop. Home to a large collection of Chinese art and history.

Beitou Hot Springs – Just 30 minutes from downtown; soak in volcanic hot springs surrounded by mountains.

Yangmingshan National Park – Hike trails, see steaming fumaroles, and visit flower gardens.

ENTERTAINMENT

Bars & Social Spots

• The Brass Monkey – international sports bar, relaxed crowd, close to poker venue.
  📍Fuxing N Rd.
• On Tap Taipei – British pub with poker-player vibe, darts & beers.
  📍Anhe Rd., Da’an

Live Music / Chill

• Music Corner – live bands, 70s-90s music, casual seating.
  📍Zhongshan District
• Revolver Taipei – indie music bar with great energy near NTU.
  📍Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall MRT

Rooftop & Clubs

• OMNI Nightclub – upscale, international DJs 📍Da’an District
• Bar Mood Taipei – one of Asia’s top cocktail bars.
  📍Xinyi District

Taipei’s food scene is one of the best in Asia — a mix of creative modern cuisine, cozy local eateries, and irresistible night markets. Whether you’re vegetarian, vegan, pescatarian, or a meat lover, the city has you covered. Stay tuned for our detailed food guide blog.

POKER PLAYER TIPS

• Bring light layers: Taipei poker rooms use strong A/C.
• Keep small cash (NT$100–500 bills) for taxis, markets.
• Learn a few phrases: “Xiè xiè” (thank you)
• Avoid over-caffeinating during long events — bubble tea has strong sugar hits.
• Use the MRT + Uber combo to move efficiently between poker, dining, and nightlife.
• Plan 1–2 rest days for sightseeing — it helps reset your focus for tournament play.

Taipei is a city that surprises you. One minute you’re exploring a high-tech mall, the next you’re walking through a peaceful temple garden or chatting with a street vendor at a night market.

It’s safe, easy to navigate, and endlessly fascinating — whether you’re here to explore, relax, and of course, play a few poker Ola Poker Tour tournaments at the Asia Poker Arena.

No matter what brings you to Taipei, we are sure you’ll leave with amazing memories, new friends, and a feeling that you’ve discovered one of Asia’s best-kept secrets.

See the full Ola Poker Tour Taipei schedule here. Exciting information on the special Team Event with bonus prizes here.

Ola Poker Tour: ‘Where Smiles Are Rewarded’