Qingdao - Discovering China

Travelling to Qingdao

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Qingdao, a pretty good destination in China (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Qingdao and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Qingdao, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through China, here's everything to know about Qingdao for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Qingdao

Qingdao is a coastal city in eastern China, located in the Shandong province. It is known for its beautiful beaches, scenic mountains, and fresh seafood. The city has a rich history and culture, with influences from both Chinese and Western traditions. It is also famous for its beer, as Qingdao is home to the Tsingtao Brewery, which produces one of China's most popular beers. Other attractions in Qingdao include the historic German architecture in the Old Town, the iconic Zhan Bridge, and the lush parks such as the Qingdao Forest Wildlife World.

What to visit in Qingdao

Here are some of the top tourist attractions in Qingdao, China, along with some information about each one: 1. Mount Lao (Laoshan): This mountain is one of the most famous landmarks in Qingdao and is known for its scenic beauty and historical significance. It is considered a Taoist mountain and has many temples, waterfalls, and hiking trails for visitors to explore.
2. Qingdao Beer Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of beer in Qingdao, which is home to the famous Tsingtao Brewery. Visitors can learn about the brewing process, taste different beers, and watch beer-making demonstrations.
3. Zhanqiao Pier: This iconic pier is one of the most popular tourist spots in Qingdao. It was first built in 1891 and has become a symbol of the city. Visitors can take a stroll along the pier and enjoy panoramic views of the Qingdao skyline and the sea.
4. May Fourth Square: This large public square is located in the center of Qingdao and is named after the May Fourth Movement, which played a significant role in modern Chinese history. The square is known for its impressive architecture, including the Qingdao Grand Theatre and the iconic sculpture of "The Sail." 5. Badaguan Scenic Area: This neighborhood is famous for its European-style architecture and scenic coastal views. There are many villas and mansions from the colonial era, as well as parks and gardens to explore.
6. Xiaoyushan Park: This park offers breathtaking views of Qingdao's coastline and is a popular spot for photography. It also has several temples and pagodas, as well as a cable car for visitors to ride.
7. Qingdao Aquarium: This aquarium is home to over 10,000 marine creatures and is one of the largest in China. Visitors can see a variety of fish, sharks, and other sea animals, as well as watch feeding shows and educational presentations.
I hope this helps! Let me know if you have any other questions.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in China, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Qingdao.

When to go on holiday to Qingdao

The best time to go on holiday to Qingdao is from September to November. During this time, the weather is pleasantly mild with comfortable temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F) and low rainfall, making it a perfect time to explore the city and its surroundings.
Summer is also a popular time to visit Qingdao as the city hosts its annual international beer festival in August along with many other cultural events. However, the weather during this time is hot, humid, and crowded, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Winter in Qingdao can be very cold and snowy, with temperatures often dropping below freezing. If you plan to visit during this time, be sure to bring warm clothing and gear.
Spring in Qingdao is generally mild, but can also be quite windy and rainy. Overall, the best time to visit Qingdao depends on your preferences, but September to November is a safe bet for most travelers.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Qingdao

There are several ways to get to Qingdao: By air: The easiest and most convenient way to reach Qingdao is by air. There are two major airports in Qingdao- Qingdao Liuting International Airport and Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport, which are well connected to major cities around the world. You can fly directly to Qingdao from Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Seoul, Japan, Singapore, and many other cities.
By train: Qingdao has a well-developed railway network that connects it to major cities in China, such as Beijing, Shanghai, Tianjin, and Jinan. If you are coming from other parts of China, taking a train to Qingdao is a convenient option.
By bus: There are several long-distance buses that connect Qingdao with neighboring cities such as Beijing, Tianjin, Jinan, and Yantai. However, taking a bus can be a time-consuming option as the journey can take several hours.
By car: If you are planning a road trip or prefer the flexibility of driving, you can rent a car or hire a taxi to travel to Qingdao. However, keep in mind that driving in China can be challenging due to the language barrier, traffic, and different road rules.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Qingdao, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Qingdao

Sure, here are some typical foods of Qingdao with a short description for each of them: 1. Qingdao beer: Considered as one of the best beers in China, Qingdao beer has a distinct aroma and taste. It is a refreshing drink especially during the summer.
2. Lao shan mineral water: Lao Shan mineral water comes from a mountain in Qingdao and is considered as one of the best mineral waters in China. It has a unique taste due to its high mineral content.
3. Qingdao grilled seafood: Qingdao is known for its fresh seafood, which is grilled on skewers and served in many street stalls and restaurants. The seafood is marinated in various spices, which give it a unique flavor.
4. Jiaozi (dumplings) with seafood filling: Jiaozi or dumplings are a popular food in China, and seafood- stuffed dumplings are a must-try in Qingdao. The filling can include shrimp or crab meat, and the dumplings are served steamed or fried.
5. Tang cu li ji (Sweet and sour carp): A popular dish in Shandong Province, Tang cu li ji is made from whole carp that is coated in wheat flour, deep-fried, and served in sweet and sour sauce. It has a sweet and tangy flavor and is a favorite among locals.
6. Guokui (Baked buns): Guokui is a kind of flatbread that originated in Shandong Province. These buns are baked rather than steamed and can be stuffed with various ingredients such as meat, pickled vegetables, and sesame seeds.
You can find general info about typical foods in China here.

Is Qingdao an expensive destination for tourists?

Qingdao (China) can be both expensive and affordable depending on several factors including your travel style, preferences and budget. The cost of accommodation, food and activities can vary greatly depending on where you choose to stay and what you do during your trip. Generally speaking, Qingdao is considered to be a mid-range to a slightly expensive destination for tourists. However, there are many ways to save money and stay within your budget. Some ways to save money may include staying in budget-friendly hotels or hostels, eating at local street food stalls and local restaurants, and taking advantage of free activities and attractions. Additionally, visiting during the off-season can also help to cut down on costs. Overall, while Qingdao may not be the cheapest destination for tourists, careful planning and budgeting can help to make the trip more affordable.

Where to find accomodation in Qingdao

The best areas to find accommodations for visiting Qingdao are likely to be close to the city center, especially near the beach areas, which are some of the city's main attractions. Some of the popular areas for accommodation in Qingdao include Shinan District, Qingdao Central Business District, and Laoshan District. Other areas, such as Licang District and Chengyang District, also have a good range of hotels and are convenient for exploring the city. Ultimately, the choice of which area to stay in will depend on what you want to see and do in Qingdao.
You can check hotel prices at Qingdao here:
Booking.com

Is Qingdao a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Qingdao is generally a safe place for tourists. Like any other city, there may be incidents of petty crime such as pickpocketing and theft in crowded tourist areas, but the overall crime rate in Qingdao is relatively low. It is always important to exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, especially when traveling alone or at night. It is also recommended to keep your belongings secure and avoid carrying large sums of cash.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in China here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Qingdao.

What type of travelers will enjoy Qingdao the most?

Qingdao offers something for everyone, making it an ideal destination for a variety of travelers. Couples can enjoy romantic walks on the beach, visiting historical landmarks like the Zhanqiao Pier or the enchanting underwater world at the Qingdao Underwater World. Young people can enjoy the bustling nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to choose from.
Families can also enjoy the city's rich history and culture, with attractions such as the Qingdao Beer Museum, May Fourth Square or the Qingdao Municipal Museum offering entertaining and educational experiences. The city's beautiful parks, such as the Signal Hill Park or the Badaguan Scenic Area, provide perfect opportunities for families to enjoy the outdoors.
Overall, Qingdao offers a diverse range of attractions that make it suitable for a variety of travelers, including couples, young people, and families.

How to get around Qingdao

In Qingdao, there are several modes of transportation to choose from, including buses, taxis, and the subway. Buses are the most common and affordable options, and the city has a well-developed bus network with routes that cover most areas. Taxis are also widely available, but are comparatively more expensive than buses. The subway is a rapid transit system that has recently opened in the city, and it is a convenient and efficient way to travel around Qingdao, particularly for longer distances.

What to see around Qingdao

Sure, here are some suggestions for day trips from Qingdao: 1. Mount Lao: It’s a scenic mountain range that is located about 40km east of Qingdao. Mount Lao is known for its stunning scenery, ancient temples, and historical landmarks. You can take a cable car to the top of the mountain and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
2. Penglai Pavilion: Located about an hour's drive from Qingdao, Penglai Pavilion is a famous tourist attraction in Shandong Province. It was built during the Eastern Han Dynasty and has a history of more than 2000 years. You can enjoy a beautiful view of the Yellow Sea and visit several ancient structures.
3. Laoshan Scenic Area: This scenic spot is located about 30km east of Qingdao and includes the tallest coastal peak in China. You can enjoy hiking, sightseeing, and visiting ancient shrines and temples.
4. Weihai: It's a beautiful coastal city located on the northeastern tip of Shandong Peninsula. Weihai is known for its spectacular scenery, pleasant climate, and historical landmarks. You can explore the city's museums, parks, and beaches.
5. Jiaozhou Bay: It's a large bay located about 40km northwest of Qingdao. You can take a boat ride on the bay and enjoy the beautiful scenery or visit the nearby beaches, museums, and temples.
I hope you find these suggestions helpful.
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