Things To Do
in Yantai

Yantai, China is a vibrant coastal city located in Shandong Province, known for its stunning beaches and rich history. It boasts a beautiful mix of modern architecture and traditional culture, making it a popular destination for both local and international tourists. The city's favorable climate, coupled with its picturesque scenery and seafood-rich cuisine, offers visitors a delightful experience.

Yantai is also famous for its wine production, with numerous vineyards and wineries to explore.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day at Yantai Hill, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city and the sea. Visit the Yantai Pavilion, a historic structure that showcases traditional Chinese architecture.

afternoon
:

Head to the Yantai Marina for a leisurely stroll along the waterfront. Enjoy lunch at a local seafood restaurant and explore the nearby shopping area.

evening
:

Conclude your day with a sunset walk on the beach, followed by dinner at a popular local eatery that specializes in Shandong cuisine.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Visit the Changyu Wine Cultural Museum to learn about Yantai's wine-making history and sample some local wines. Afterward, take a trip to the nearby Penglai Pavilion.

afternoon
:

Spend the afternoon at the scenic Penglai Water City, exploring its lush gardens and ancient architecture. Enjoy lunch at a nearby café.

evening
:

Return to Yantai and experience the vibrant night market, tasting various street foods and enjoying local crafts.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Meal at a local restaurant$5
Coffee at a café$3
🚌Public transport ticket$0.50
🏨Mid-range hotel (per night)$40
🍺Beer at a bar$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful coastal scenery and beaches.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local cuisine.
  • Relatively low cost of living compared to major cities.
  • Language barrier may be challenging for non-Chinese speakers.
  • Some tourist areas can be crowded, especially in summer.
  • Limited public transport options outside the main city area.
  • "你好" - Hello
  • "谢谢" - Thank you
  • "多少钱?" - How much is this?
  • "请问厕所在哪里?" - Excuse me, where is the restroom?
  • "我不明白" - I don’t understand

Places to Visit in Yantai

Visit one of these nice places.

Yantai Hill

Offers stunning views of the coastline and city skyline, perfect for sunset photography.

Penglai Pavilion

A historic site with beautiful architecture and scenic views, ideal for capturing traditional Chinese landscapes.

Yantai Marina

A picturesque waterfront area that features boats, the sea, and vibrant market life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Yantai

Yantai is a culinary paradise, especially for seafood lovers, offering a variety of local dishes that reflect its coastal heritage.

Yantai Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Grilled Squid

Fresh squid grilled over open flames, often served with a spicy dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Seafood Noodles

A delicious mix of fresh seafood and hand-pulled noodles in a savory broth.

Yantai Apples

Locally grown apples known for their sweetness and crispiness, often enjoyed as a snack.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Yantai Night Market

A bustling market offering a wide range of street foods, from skewers to dumplings.

Food Street near Yantai Marina

A vibrant area filled with food stalls serving local delicacies and snacks.

Climate Guide

Weather

Yantai experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with average temperatures around 25-30°C (77-86°F). Winters (December to February) are cold and windy, with temperatures often dropping to around -5 to 5°C (23-41°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild, with comfortable temperatures and beautiful natural scenery.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Elders

Showing respect to older individuals is crucial; greetings and gestures should reflect this.

Dining Etiquette

Wait for the host to start eating before you begin, and avoid using chopsticks to point or stick upright in rice.

Personal Space

While the Chinese are generally warm and friendly, it’s important to maintain a respectful distance during conversations.

Safety Guide

Safety

Yantai is generally considered a safe city for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to remain vigilant in crowded areas to avoid petty theft. Always keep personal belongings secure and be cautious when walking alone at night in less populated areas. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police, 120 for medical assistance, and 119 for fire services.

Tipping in Yantai

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in China, but leaving small change for good service is appreciated.

Payment Methods

Mobile payments through apps like WeChat Pay and Alipay are widely accepted; cash is also commonly used.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Mild temperatures and blooming flowers make it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Summer

Warm weather attracts beachgoers; however, it can be crowded, especially at popular tourist spots.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage create a picturesque backdrop for photography.

Winter

Cold temperatures with occasional snow; ideal for those looking for a quieter experience and fewer crowds.

Nightlife Guide

Yantai at Night

Yantai's nightlife is lively, with a mix of bars, nightclubs, and night markets. The coastal area features several beach bars where you can relax with a drink while enjoying the ocean breeze. For a more energetic experience, visit local nightclubs that offer live music and dancing. The night markets are also a highlight, filled with food stalls and local crafts, providing a cultural experience as well as entertainment.

Hiking in Yantai

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Kunyu Trail

This scenic trail offers a challenging hike with rewarding views of the surrounding landscape and coastline.

Penglai Scenic Area Trails

Several trails wind through this picturesque area, allowing hikers to explore ancient architecture and lush gardens.

Airports

How to reach Yantai by plane.

Yantai Penglai International Airport

Located about 30 km northeast of Yantai city center, this airport serves both domestic and international flights, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Yantai is quite walkable, particularly in the city center and coastal areas. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, some hilly areas may be less accessible for those with mobility issues. It's advisable to wear comfortable shoes and stay hydrated while exploring on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Han Chinese

The majority ethnic group in Yantai, comprising a significant portion of the population and influencing local culture.

Korean Community

A smaller demographic group, primarily in the form of Korean-Chinese, contributing to the cultural diversity of the region.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Basketball

Basketball is a popular sport among the youth in Yantai, with many local courts and teams.

Table Tennis

Table tennis is widely played in China, and Yantai has numerous clubs and facilities for enthusiasts of all levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Yantai can be busy during peak hours, particularly around the city center. Public transportation includes buses and taxis, which are affordable and widely used. However, some areas may have limited access to public transport, making walking or biking a viable alternative. It's advisable to use ride-sharing apps for convenience and ease of navigation.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Yantai.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it’s advisable to ask for no meat or fish.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free dishes can be found but may require special request; be sure to communicate your needs clearly.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Yantai is generally accessible, with several hospitals and clinics available for both locals and tourists. Major hospitals offer services in English, although it is wise to have a translation app or phrasebook handy. Medical facilities are equipped for emergencies, but for serious conditions, traveling to larger cities like Beijing or Shanghai may be necessary. It's recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses.

Discover China

Read more in our China 2025 Travel Guide.

China Travel Guide