Our Picks For The 15 Best Tours & Experiences In Qingdao

Qingdao is a city that offers more than just its famous beer and seaside views. Its mix of colonial architecture, Taoist temples, and scenic mountains makes it a fantastic place for a variety of tours and experiences that cater to different interests. Whether you want to climb the iconic Great Wall at Mutianyu, explore Taoist sites like Laoshan, or enjoy the modern city’s vibrant streets, Qingdao has a lot to offer. A highlight for many travelers is the Private Day Trip to Mutianyu Great Wall, which combines an efficient train journey with a chance to walk on one of China’s most famous sections of the Wall. For a more laid-back experience, the Qingdao Highlights Two-day Private Guided Tour offers a deep dive into the city’s architecture, beaches, and local culture.

Below, we’ve gathered the best tours and experiences in Qingdao, balancing cultural exploration with outdoor adventures and city sightseeing. We’ll help you understand what makes each one special and guide you toward the best choice for your trip.

1. Qingdao Private Day Trip to Mutianyu Great Wall with Cable Car or Toboggan Ride

At number 1, this private day trip takes you from Qingdao to Beijing via bullet train, with a visit to the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall. It’s perfect for history lovers who want the comfort of a private guide and vehicle, without the fuss of navigating public transportation on their own. The tour includes an entry ticket, and you can choose to take the cable car or chair lift up the wall, finishing with a fun toboggan ride down. The guide shares detailed stories about the Wall, making history come alive. With reviews praising the guide’s eloquence and patience, this tour is highly rated for its personalized service.
Bottom Line: It’s ideal for travelers who want a hassle-free, immersive experience of one of China’s most iconic sights, all in a single day.

2. Private Qingdao Laoshan half day tour with one bottle of Tsingdao beer as gift

Number 2 on the list offers a half-day exploration of Mount Laoshan, famous as one of the birthplaces of Taoism. The tour hits key sites like Taiqing Palace and waterfalls, with plenty of opportunities to admire the sea views and ancient temples. The highlight is the legendary Taoist culture, which has attracted pilgrims for centuries. The tour includes a souvenir bottle of Tsingdao beer, a fun taste of local pride. Guests describe the guide as professional, friendly, and knowledgeable, making the experience more engaging. It’s a great choice for those short on time but eager to see Taoist relics and enjoy mountain scenery.
Bottom Line: Perfect for spiritual seekers and nature lovers who want a half-day dose of Qingdao’s spiritual roots and scenic beauty.

3. Qingdao Highlights Two-day Private Guided Tour

Number 3 offers an in-depth exploration of Qingdao across two days, ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive look at the city’s architecture, beaches, and history. Highlights include XiaoYushan Park, Badaguan Scenic Resort, and the German-style buildings that showcase Qingdao’s colonial past. The tour also includes sampling local beer at the brewery and visiting Taoist Taoism sites. The itinerary is flexible, with guides sharing stories about the city’s European influence, and guests praise the knowledgeable guides and relaxed pace. With a focus on personalized experiences, this tour appeals to those who want a deeper understanding of Qingdao’s multilayered identity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a relaxed, spacious exploration of Qingdao’s cultural and historical highlights over two days.

4. Qingdao: Private City Tour with Beer & a Delectable Lunch

Number 4 offers a flexible private city tour that combines iconic attractions like Zhanqiao Pier and Xiaoyushan Park with a visit to the Tsingtao Brewery Museum. The highlight? Tasting fresh Tsingtao beer straight from the source, paired with a local-style lunch. Customizable to your interests, this tour is perfect for beer lovers or those looking to get a taste of Qingdao’s lively street scenes. The tour’s flexibility allows you to linger at favorite spots, and the guide shares insights into Qingdao’s colonial influence and modern life.
Bottom Line: Ideal for visitors who want a personalized city tour with a cultural twist and beer tasting included.

5. All-Inclusive Private Day Tour: Qingdao Highlights with Lunch

Number 5 is a full-day, all-inclusive experience designed for maximum comfort. It features a visit to Laoshan Scenic Area, including Taiqing Palace and the mountain’s stunning coastal views. After a delicious restaurant lunch, the tour continues with highlights like Zhanqiao Pier and Small Qingdao Island. The tour is perfect for those who want a well-rounded experience, including cultural sights, scenic landscapes, and insider insights. Guests love the door-to-door service, making it a stress-free way to see Qingdao.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want a complete, worry-free day with a mix of culture, nature, and city sights.

6. Private Qingdao Laoshan day tour with lunch& round way cable car

Number 6 offers an immersive full-day Laoshan experience, with round-trip cable car rides and visits to Qingdao’s Taoist temples like Taiqing Palace. The guide leads you along the Southern Route, passing waterfalls, cliffs, and scenic temples—perfect if you want a true mountain pilgrimage. The package includes lunch and private transfers, making it convenient and comfortable. Guests praise the guide’s promptness and knowledge, with some noting this as an excellent way to explore the Taoist heritage.
Bottom Line: Excellent for those seeking a comprehensive, scenic hike with cultural and spiritual significance.

7. Private Qingdao Historic architectural day tour with Tsingdao beer during Lunch

Number 7 combines Qingdao’s colonial architecture with local flavor, touring sites like the German Governor’s Residence and the Qingdao Railway Station. The tour includes a lunch with Tsingtao beer, giving you a taste of the city’s brewing heritage. Guests have noted the guide’s flexibility and deep knowledge, making it easy to customize the day. The focus on architectural highlights paired with local beer makes this especially appealing for history and design buffs.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those interested in Qingdao’s European influences and local beer culture.

8. Qingdao Private Tour: City Highlights and Laoshan Mountain with Lunch+Cable Car

Number 8 offers a balanced combination of city highlights and mountain scenery. This private tour includes Laoshan Scenic Area with cable car, plus visits to Xiaoyushan Park and other city sights. It’s well-suited for travelers wanting flexibility and a full day of sightseeing. The tour offers scenic mountain views and cultural insights, with guests appreciating the personalized service and the ability to tailor the day.
Bottom Line: Suitable for active travelers who want a mix of outdoor adventure and urban exploration.

9. Qingdao Private Day Tour to Laoshan Mountain with Lunch and Cable Car

Number 9 is a classic full-day trip to Laoshan, focusing on using the cable car to maximize mountain views and visiting Taiqing Palace. The tour is designed for those wanting a straightforward, scenic experience with minimal hiking, ideal for less active travelers. It includes lunch and highlights the famous Taoist sites. The reviews mention prompt guides and smooth logistics.
Bottom Line: Great for travelers who want stunning mountain vistas without strenuous hiking.

10. Tianjin Private Tour: The Ultimate Bucket-List Destinations

Number 10 takes you beyond Qingdao into Tianjin—a city full of surprises, from Ancient Cultural Street to the Porcelain House. This customizable private tour allows you to see Tianjin’s diverse attractions in a day, perfect if you have limited time and want a curated experience. Guests enjoy the flexibility and personalized attention.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers looking to extend their trip into nearby cities with a mix of culture and modern sights.

11. Qingdao + Weihai Day Tour with Buffet

Number 11 offers a day trip combining Qingdao and Weihai, including visits to the Olympic Sailing Center and May Fourth Square. After sightseeing, enjoy a buffet dinner with sea views and watch fireworks at Dongpu Bay. The tour is perfect for those interested in coastal scenery and lively urban spots.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers wanting a seaside experience with a relaxed, comprehensive day.

12. Qingdao: Tsingtao Beer Museum and Night Market Tour

Number 12 is perfect for beer enthusiasts—exploring the Tsingtao Beer Museum and enjoying the bustling Taidong Night Market. The tour includes museum entry and snacks at local stalls, giving a taste of Qingdao’s lively street food scene. Guests rave about the flavor pairings and the chance to learn about the beer’s history. It’s a lively, flavorful experience that combines culture and cuisine.
Bottom Line: For beer lovers and night market fans wanting an authentic taste of Qingdao’s food scene.

13. Qingdao Night Bites & Hidden Alleys: Local Flavor Walk Feast

Number 13 offers an evening stroll through Qingdao’s old town, sampling seafood buns, shrimp pancakes, gelato, and BBQ. This guided walk immerses you in local street food, with stops at popular alleys and food stalls. Guests love the chance to try a variety of flavors and explore the city’s lively nightlife. It’s a perfect way to taste authentic local cuisine in a relaxed setting.
Bottom Line: Excellent for foodies who enjoy walking, eating, and discovering local flavor.

14. Qingdao: Dongjing Mountain and Fox Fairy Temple Tour

Number 14 highlights Dongjing Mountain’s scenic beauty and the Fox Fairy Temple, famous for legends and folk stories. The tour combines cultural sightseeing, with visits to temples and natural sites on the mountain slopes. It’s ideal for travelers interested in folklore and tranquil settings. Reviews mention the informative guides and the charm of the legends.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those who want a mix of natural scenery and folk tales in a peaceful environment.

15. Qingdao: Chinese Navy Museum Guided Tour with Pickup

Number 15 offers a 6-hour guided exploration of China’s naval history, including historic ships and submarines like the Changzheng 1 Nuclear Submarine. Perfect for military enthusiasts or families interested in maritime history. The tour includes museum admission and a coastal walk along Qinyu Road. Reviews note the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see unique military exhibits.
Bottom Line: Best for those with an interest in naval history and military technology.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Qingdao

When selecting your ideal experience, consider your interests and fitness level. For example, if you want a rundown, the Qingdao Highlights Two-day Private Guided Tour is excellent. If a cultural and spiritual experience appeals, the Laoshan Mountain tours or the full-day Laoshan with cable car are perfect. For a food-focused evening, the Night Bites & Hidden Alleys offers a vibrant taste of Qingdao’s street scene. Budget travelers might prefer shorter half-day tours, while history buffs will appreciate the German architecture tour.

Booking early and considering the best time to visit—spring and fall tend to have the most pleasant weather—will help you make the most of your time. Many tours include private transfers and local guides, ensuring a smooth and enriching experience.

Final Thoughts

Qingdao’s diverse range of tours makes it easy to craft a trip tailored to your interests. For scenic mountain vistas and Taoist temples, the Laoshan tours stand out. If architecture and history are your thing, the city highlights and German influence tours deliver. Foodies and night owls will love exploring Qingdao’s markets and street eats, while history buffs can dive into the navy’s past at the Naval Museum.

No matter what your travel style, booking ahead and selecting a tour that matches your interests will ensure a memorable Qingdao visit. With so many options, you’re sure to find the perfect experience to complement your trip—just don’t wait too long, these tours fill up fast!