Explore the best of Qingdao in just two days with this carefully curated itinerary. From the historic landmarks and charming streets of the old town to the scenic beaches and modern attractions of the city’s coastline, this itinerary offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration and seaside relaxation. Whether you’re strolling through bustling markets, visiting iconic churches, or enjoying panoramic ocean views, this itinerary ensures you experience the essence of Qingdao in a short time.
Day 1: Zhanqiao Pier → Zhejiang Road Catholic Church → Zhongshan Road Shopping Street → Jiangsu Road Christian Church → Xiaoyushan Park → Taidong Night Market
The first day’s itinerary is centered around Qingdao’s old town, which is the highlight of Qingdao tourism. The Catholic Church and Christian Church are iconic landmarks and must-visit attractions. Walking south from the Catholic Church, you’ll reach another landmark, Zhanqiao Pier. University Road is just a 10-minute walk from Zhanqiao Pier, where you’ll find many quiet alleys filled with unique coffee shops and small restaurants. Xiaoyushan Park is the best spot in the old town to enjoy panoramic views of the peninsula and the sea. In the evening, you can take Bus No. 1 from University Road to Taidong to experience the lively night market, ending your day with a vibrant local experience.
Accommodation:
There are plenty of budget hotels, unique inns, and youth hostels near Zhongshan Road, making it a convenient area to stay with easy access to other attractions in Qingdao. One recommended option is Four Seasons Sea Youth Hostel (四季海的青年旅舍), one of the earlier youth hostels in Qingdao. Although the facilities may not be as new as those in recently opened hostels, it is a place full of character with an excellent location. If you prefer a star-rated hotel, you might want to stay in the eastern business district.
Meals:
Breakfast: In the old town, you can find many local delicacies. A traditional Qingdao breakfast includes sweet soy milk paired with a meat bun, which is a must-try for visitors.
Lunch: For lunch, head to the seafood market on Sifang Road in the Zhongshan Road shopping district to buy fresh seasonal seafood, which can be prepared at a nearby restaurant – fresh, economical, and delicious.
Dinner: Taidong Night Market is the liveliest place in Qingdao at night. Stroll through the market and try some local snacks. If you’re in the mood for Qingdao’s signature beer and grilled meat, visit Daguan Grilled Meat (大缸烤肉) on Taonan Road to experience the local way of enjoying food and drink.
Day 2: First Bathing Beach → Taipingjiao → Badaguan Scenic Area → Hong Kong Middle Road Shopping Street → Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center
First Bathing Beach is the most famous beach in Qingdao and is especially crowded during the tourist season. Stroll along the wooden walkway in front of the beach, soaking up the sun, and you’ll pass Taipingjiao before arriving at another must-visit spot in Qingdao, the Badaguan Scenic Area. Badaguan is also a popular location for wedding photography. The area features two small and quiet beaches, and Third Bathing Beach is recommended here. This beach is perfectly situated between the old town and the new city center, showcasing the striking contrast between Qingdao’s past and present. After enjoying Third Bathing Beach, walk east along the coast for 20 minutes to reach Lovers’ Dam at the Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center, one of the best spots in the city to watch the sunset. This area is also home to a bustling shopping district, where you can explore the malls, have dinner, and then end your day by watching the sunset from the dam, surrounded by docked sailboats and yachts.
Accommodation:
Qingdao is not a large city, and the distance between the old and new towns is quite short, with convenient transportation options. Staying in the Zhongshan Road shopping district is still recommended. However, if you prefer star-rated hotels, you can find several options near the city government in the new city center.
Meals:
Lunch: Consider dining at one of the restaurants near the wooden walkway at Taipingjiao. These restaurants specialize in seafood, offering a good environment and decent dishes, although the prices may be slightly higher than in the city center. Be sure to confirm the price of the seafood before ordering.
Third Bathing Beach: Next to the beach, Langyuan Bar (朗园酒吧) is one of Qingdao’s earlier-established coffee bars. The location and environment are highly recommended, as it occupies an old European-style house with a courtyard. The window seats on the second floor offer great views of the sunset.
Olympic Sailing Center: The center also has various Korean and Japanese restaurants to choose from, though they might be on the pricier side.