Things To Do
in Qingdao
Qingdao, located in the eastern Shandong Province of China, is a picturesque coastal city renowned for its beautiful beaches, lush landscapes, and historic German colonial architecture, giving it a unique European flair. It is famous worldwide for its Tsingtao Brewery, China's second-largest brewery, founded by German settlers in the early 20th century, which hosts an annual beer festival drawing visitors globally.
Qingdao also serves as an important economic hub and seaport, offering a vibrant blend of modern urban development and rich cultural heritage, making it a popular destination for both tourists and business travelers.
- "Ni hao" - Hello
- "Xie xie" - Thank you
- "Zao an" - Good morning
- "Zai jian" - Goodbye
- "Shen me" - What?
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $100
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $3 - $20
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $20 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $50
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a refreshing walk at the beautiful May Fourth Square, admiring the iconic sculpture and coastal views. Enjoy breakfast at a nearby café with stunning oceanfront scenery.
Spend your afternoon relaxing at the beaches, such as Zhanqiao Pier and Bathing Beach No. 1. Try local seafood at beachside stalls for a delightful lunch.
As the sun sets, stroll along the beach and capture memorable photos of the skyline. Dine at a seaside restaurant while enjoying live music.
Visit the Tsingtao Beer Museum to learn about the history of this famous brew and sample some. Explore the German-style architecture around the Cultural Square for a glimpse of the city’s colonial past.
Head to St. Michael's Cathedral to admire its Gothic-style architecture. Enjoy a hearty lunch at a local dumpling shop nearby.
Explore the vibrant atmosphere at the old Town area filled with cafes and boutiques. End your day with a traditional Chinese hotpot at a local restaurant.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.
- Rich history and cultural heritage, including German colonial architecture.
- Renowned for its beer, especially Tsingtao Brewery.
- Growing economy and opportunities for business and investment.
- Mild climate, suitable for outdoor activities year-round.
- Air pollution and environmental concerns in urban areas.
- Traffic congestion during peak tourist seasons.
- Limited English proficiency among locals may pose communication challenges.
- High cost of living compared to other Chinese cities.
- Seasonal typhoons can disrupt normal life and travel plans.
Best Activities in Qingdao
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy swimming, beach volleyball, or picnicking at popular spots such as No. 1 Bathing Beach or Shilaoren Beach.
Explore the scenic trails and lush forests of Laoshan, with options for both leisurely walks and challenging climbs.
Rent a bike and take a ride along the picturesque coastal pathway, enjoying beautiful ocean views along the way.
Participate in activities like sailing, windsurfing, or kayaking at the Olympic Sailing Center.
Play a round of golf with stunning sea views at this renowned golf club located by the coast.
Tours
Uncover the best of Qingdao with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Qingdao
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and coastline, with the iconic White Qingdao sculpture.
A large public square with a beautiful seascape and skyline view, and the iconic May Wind Sculpture.
Historic pier with a backdrop of the city skyline and the famous Zhanqiao Bridge.
Food in Qingdao
Qingdao Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
These dumplings are filled with a flavorful mixture of minced seafood, wrapped in thin dough, and either steamed or pan-fried. Look for them at local dumpling restaurants like Pichai Yuan Dumpling Restaurant.
Must-Try!
Fresh squid is marinated, skewered, and grilled over charcoal, imparting a smoky flavor. The best place to savor this treat is at the street food stalls along Qingdao's coastline.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Qingdao better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market is renowned for its variety of street food, from grilled seafood to savory pancakes. It's an ideal spot to indulge in local flavors and experience Qingdao's vibrant street food culture.
Peruse this market for an array of local delicacies, including fresh oysters, skewered seafood, and other enticing snacks. The vibrant atmosphere and tempting aromas make it a must-visit for any food enthusiast.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Qingdao, it is important to show respect for elders, both in speech and behavior. This includes using formal titles and greetings when interacting with older individuals.
When dining in Qingdao, it's important to observe proper table manners, such as waiting for the host to begin eating before starting and using chopsticks appropriately.
Gift giving is a common practice in Qingdao, and it's important to present gifts with both hands as a sign of respect. When receiving a gift, it's polite to express gratitude graciously.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Qingdao with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Qingdao
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Qingdao, China. In fact, it is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
In Qingdao, China, cash is still widely used for smaller transactions, but major credit and debit cards are accepted in many places, especially in larger establishments and tourist areas. Mobile payment apps such as Alipay and WeChat Pay are also widely used and accepted.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Qingdao.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is one of the best times to visit Qingdao, with pleasant temperatures, beautiful cherry blossoms, and the famous Qingdao International Beer Festival taking place in late August to early September.
Summer is the peak tourist season in Qingdao, with warm weather, clear skies, and the opportunity to enjoy the city's beaches and outdoor activities.
Autumn is also a great time to visit Qingdao, with mild temperatures, fewer tourists, and the delightful sight of autumn foliage in the parks and mountains.
Winter in Qingdao can be chilly, but it's a good time to enjoy hot springs, seafood, and the city's festive atmosphere during the Chinese New Year celebration.
Qingdao at Night
Hiking in Qingdao
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Famous for its beautiful mountains and sea views, Laoshan is one of Qingdao's most popular hiking destinations, offering various trails suitable for all levels.
A scenic area that combines coastal views with nearby hiking trails, Zhanqiao provides a pleasant walk along the sea and opportunities for exploration.
Located in the eastern part of Qingdao, Mount Fushan offers hiking trails through lush forests and stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
This area features rugged coastal hiking paths along the cliffs and beautiful views of the sea and beach.
A more urban trail that combines the historical aspects of the famous beer museum with nearby parks suitable for light hiking.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Qingdao through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Qingdao by plane.
The main airport serving Qingdao, located about 31 kilometers northwest of the city center, offering both domestic and international flights.
Located approximately 300 kilometers from Qingdao, this airport serves the provincial capital, Jinan, and handles a wide range of domestic and international flights.
About 200 kilometers from Qingdao, Weifang Airport provides regional services and connects to several major cities.
Approximately 200 kilometers northeast of Qingdao, it serves as a gateway to the Shandong peninsula, with both domestic and international routes.
Located around 350 kilometers from Qingdao, primarily serving domestic flights and regional connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnic group in Qingdao, making up over 90% of the population.
A significant minority with historical ties to Korea, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.
Muslim Chinese minority that has a presence in various parts of Qingdao.
Includes smaller groups such as Miao, Tibetan, and Zhuang among others, cumulatively making up a small percentage of the population.
Includes a diverse group of foreign nationals living in Qingdao, including those from South Korea, the United States, and other countries.
The Soul of Qingdao
Discover the essence of Qingdao through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A highly popular sport in Qingdao, known for its competitive local clubs and international tournaments.
Widely played at both amateur and professional levels, with many local teams and leagues.
A favorite pastime among the youth, played in parks, schools, and organized competitions.
Frequently played indoors and offers numerous local clubs and training facilities.
Due to its coastal location, Qingdao hosts various sailing events and is known for its sailing clubs.
Popular on beaches and in schools, contributing to both recreational and competitive play.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Qingdao.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While seafood predominates, many restaurants offer vegetarian and vegan options such as stir-fried vegetables, tofu dishes, and meat alternatives. DaTianFu Vegetarian Restaurant is a notable venue for plant-based fare.
Locating gluten-free dishes may be challenging, but some venues, especially international hotels and upscale restaurants, can accommodate gluten-free dietary needs. It's advisable to communicate specific dietary requirements clearly when dining out.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Qingdao with these cultural adventures.
