Qingdao is a coastal city in Shandong with a red-roofed old town of German-era buildings, beaches along the Yellow Sea and the Taoist Mount Laoshan. It is also one of China's largest ports and a centre of the home-appliance industry.
Want Qingdao planned for you? Hotels for your budget, tickets booked on release, halal meals and directions, in a free detailed plan. Plan Qingdao free →
- Airports
- Jiaodong International (TAO)
- Best time
- May–October
- How long
- 2 to 3 days
- Good for
- Coast, architecture, seafood, business
What to see
01
Old town and Signal Hill
Red roofs and European-style buildings, best seen from the hilltop parks.
02
Zhanqiao Pier
The historic pier and pavilion reaching into the bay.
03
Badaguan
Quiet streets of villas in many architectural styles, near the beach.
04
Mount Laoshan
Coastal mountain trails and Taoist temples, about an hour from the city.
05
Beaches and the Olympic Sailing Centre
Seaside promenades from the old town to May Fourth Square.
What to eat
- Clams and fresh seafood
- Mackerel dumplings
- Grilled squid
- Laoshan green tea
Halal food and mosques
Qingdao has halal restaurants, and seafood is widely available. We confirm the nearest mosque and halal restaurants to your hotel before you travel.
Halal options
- Seafood restaurants (we check preparation)
- Lanzhou beef noodles
- Halal restaurants in the city centre
Qingdao for business
Qingdao is a major port and manufacturing city.
- One of China's largest container ports
- Headquarters of leading home-appliance and electronics makers
- Shandong manufacturing and food-processing industries
Getting there and around
- Metro Line 8 connects Jiaodong Airport with the city.
- High-speed trains reach Beijing in about 3 to 4.5 hours.
- Taxis and ride-hailing are easy along the coast.
Questions
When is the best time to visit Qingdao?
May to October. July and August are beach season and the busiest months.
Is Qingdao good for business visits?
Yes. It is a major port and home to large appliance and electronics manufacturers, with many suppliers across Shandong.
Opening hours, routes and rules change. Check before you travel.
