Qingdao 2-Day Private Tour: Laoshan, Tsingtao Beer & Colonial Sights

Summary

Explore Qingdao’s Colonial Streets, Beer Culture & Laoshan Mountain

You’ll wander colonial streets shaded by sycamores, sip fresh Tsingtao beer where it’s brewed, and breathe in mountain air at Laoshan—all with a local guide who knows every shortcut and story. If you want real Qingdao—history, food, sea views—this tour covers it all without rushing.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed stepping into Xiaoyushan Park was the salty breeze coming off the bay. There’s this old man who sells candied hawthorn skewers just outside the gate—sticky and sweet, perfect if you need a quick bite. From the top, the city unfolds in layers: red-tiled roofs, church spires, and far off, the sea glinting under a hazy sky. Our guide pointed out the Governor’s House across the way—hard to miss with its German castle look. Turns out Chairman Mao once stayed there; you can almost imagine the stories those walls could tell.

Walking through Badaguan felt like wandering a European neighborhood that somehow landed in China. The streets are lined with sycamore trees and old villas—some British, some Swiss. We ducked into a tiny café called “Old Times” for a quick coffee; their owner chatted about how his grandfather worked at the brewery back when it was still run by Germans. Down at Zhanqiao Pier, you’ll hear gulls squabbling over scraps from fishermen. The pier stretches out into the bay with that classic Chinese pavilion at the end—a favorite spot for local couples taking wedding photos.

The next morning started with a stroll along Zhejiang Road. The twin towers of St Michael’s Catholic Church peeked through the mist—locals say it’s best to visit early before crowds show up. Then came my favorite part: touring the Tsingtao Beer Museum. The smell of hops hits you as soon as you walk in. We watched workers bottling beer behind glass panels and got to taste a fresh pour—crisp and just slightly sweet. Right outside is Qingdao’s biggest seafood market; I tried razor clams grilled over charcoal while our guide haggled for fresh shrimp.

Laoshan Mountain is something else entirely. The air up there feels cooler—even in summer—and there’s this faint scent of pine and incense from Taiqing Temple. Some of the cypress trees are so old their bark peels off in strips. Our guide told us about Taoist monks practicing Taichi here centuries ago; I could see why they picked this place. On the way down, we passed odd-shaped rocks and tiny springs trickling over mossy stones. At the fishing village below, women were sorting seaweed on bamboo mats while kids chased each other between boats.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore Qingdao City Highlights

• Visit Little Fish Hill Park
• Tour Badaguan Scenic Area
• See Governor's House
• Walk Zhanqiao Pier
• Explore Zhejiang Road and St Michael’s Church
• Visit Tsingtao Beer Museum and Seafood Market
• Tour Laoshan Scenic Area and Taiqing Temple

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for families with young children?

Yes! The pace is relaxed and we can provide strollers or infant seats if needed. Kids usually love the park views and watching fishers at the pier.

Can I try different types of beer at the Tsingtao Brewery?

You’ll get to taste their classic brew included in your visit. If you’d like to sample more varieties, just let your guide know—they can help arrange it at the museum bar.

How much walking is involved each day?

There’s a fair bit of walking around parks and historic areas but nothing too strenuous. Laoshan has some steps but we take plenty of breaks and go at your pace.

Is seafood included or do I need to pay extra?

The tour includes entrance fees and guiding; food is not included so you can choose what you like at the seafood market or local restaurants.

What’s included

Your private English-speaking guide and driver will pick you up and drop you off each day. Entrance tickets to all attractions are covered. Wheelchair access and infant seats are available—just let us know what you need!