Internet & WiFi

Taiwan provides extensive free public WiFi through several programmes. iTaiwan, the government-run service, offers free WiFi at over 10,000 locations including government buildings, libraries, train stations, tourist information centres, and many public spaces. TPE-Free serves Taipei specifically with thousands of hotspots. New Taipei City, Taichung, Kaohsiung, and other cities operate similar municipal networks.

Convenience stores such as 7-Eleven and FamilyMart offer free WiFi in most locations. This is particularly useful because these stores are phenomenally ubiquitous: major city blocks may have multiple locations. The WiFi typically requires accepting terms and conditions and registration. Connection quality varies by location, but it’s sufficient for messaging, navigation, and basic browsing.

Most cafes and many restaurants also offer WiFi, usually with passwords displayed at the counter or provided upon request. Taiwanese cafe culture often embraces laptop users and extended stays, making cafes excellent temporary workspaces. Starbucks and other international chains have reliable WiFi, as do local chains like Louisa Coffee and Cama Café.

Despite the widespread availability of Wi-Fi, most travellers find that purchasing a tourist SIM card or eSIM with data offers far greater convenience. Taiwan’s mobile networks (Chunghwa Telecom, Taiwan Mobile, FarEasTone) offer 4G and 5G coverage that’s reliable even in rural areas and mountainous regions. These are available at airport counters immediately upon arrival.