Qingdao isn’t just about pretty beaches and fresh seafood; it’s also a city with a strong brewing tradition and fascinating cultural sites. Its famous Tsingtao Beer is a global icon, but the city’s drinking scene goes far beyond beer tasting. Whether you’re interested in exploring historic architecture, hiking mountain Taoist temples, or enjoying lively night markets, Qingdao offers a variety of drinking tours that blend local flavor with cultural richness. Our favorites include a half-day mountain adventure with a Tsingtao gift, a full city tour with beer and local cuisine, and immersive experiences like visiting the Tsingtao Beer Museum and night market. Each offers something unique—so you can pick one that suits your style, from casual beer fans to history lovers.
We love the private Laoshan half-day tour because it combines a scenic mountain hike with a Taoist temple visit, capped off with a bottle of Tsingtao as a souvenir. It’s perfect for travelers who want a mix of natural beauty and cultural insight without spending the whole day on the road.
Quick Overview
This list covers a diverse set of drinking experiences in Qingdao. From half-day mountain adventures (Private Qingdao Laoshan half day tour) to comprehensive city explorations with beer tastings (Qingdao: Private City Tour with Beer & a Delectable Lunch), and even evening visits to the Tsingtao Beer Museum plus the vibrant night market (Qingdao: Tsingtao Beer Museum and Night Market Tour). Each tour offers a different slice of Qingdao’s drinking culture, tailored for different interests, whether you love outdoor adventures, historic architecture, or lively nightlife.
1. PRIVATE QINGDAO LAOSHAN HALF DAY TOUR WITH ONE BOTTLE OF TSINGDAO BEER AS GIFT
At number 1, this half-day private tour offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, spiritual history, and a complimentary bottle of Tsingtao beer. It begins with a private transfer from your hotel to Mount Laoshan, a mountain renowned as a birthplace of Taoism and a symbol of local legend. The tour includes visits to Taiqing Palace and a Taoist temple, along with a spectacular waterfall—an ideal spot for photos and soaking in the serene mountain atmosphere. The mountain reaches 1,133 meters above sea level and features sheer cliffs, cascading waterfalls, and temples that have survived centuries of change. The tour’s highlights, like inscriptions left by calligraphers and Taoist monks, give a glimpse into the spiritual essence of the site. This experience is perfect for travelers who want cultural depth alongside scenic views.
What makes this tour stand out is its combination of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration**—plus the bonus of a fresh Tsingtao beer at the end, making the trip memorable. The guide’s expertise enhances the experience, making every stop informative and engaging. With a modest 2 reviews, it’s clear that visitors appreciate the personalized attention and the opportunity to learn about Taoism in a beautiful setting.
Bottom line: If you’re after a half-day escape that mixes nature, spirituality, and a taste of local beer, this tour hits the mark.
2. QINGDAO: PRIVATE CITY TOUR WITH BEER & A DELECTABLE LUNCH
Number 2 on our list offers an all-encompassing day exploring Qingdao’s highlights, combined with tastings of the world-famous Tsingtao beer. This private tour can be customized to your interests, but key stops include the Tsingtao Brewery Museum, where you’ll learn about the beer’s history and see vintage brewing equipment. You’ll sample freshly brewed Tsingtao, which is a must-do for beer lovers. The tour also covers iconic landmarks like Zhanqiao Pier, Xiaoyushan Park, and the Badaguan Area, with its European-style architecture reflecting Qingdao’s colonial past.
A highlight is the included Shandong-style lunch, where you can savor local dishes that complement your beer experience. Tour guide Amy, praised for her flexibility and knowledge, is excellent at tailoring the day to your interests—whether that means spending more time at the brewery or exploring historic neighborhoods.
What makes this tour worthwhile is the balance of cultural sightseeing and beer tasting in a single day, making it ideal for travelers who want a rundown. The price ($220) offers good value considering the personalized service and multiple highlights.
Bottom line: For those keen on a full day of history, architecture, and craft beer, this tour’s combination of sights and tastings delivers a well-rounded experience.
$220 per person
3. PRIVATE QINGDAO HISTORIC ARCHITECTURAL DAY TOUR WITH TSINGDAO BEER DURING LUNCH
Positioned third, this 8-hour tour focuses on Qingdao’s European and colonial architecture alongside the city’s brewing tradition. It kicks off with a visit to the Qingdao Site Museum of the Former German Governor’s Residence, where you see grand buildings that reflect Qingdao’s German past. Next, you’ll explore Zhongshan Road, a bustling street lined with historic European-style shops, cafes, and cobblestone alleys—perfect for photos and people-watching.
Throughout the day, you’ll visit the Qingdao Railway Station, Pichaiyuan Snack Street, and Signal Hill, offering a mixture of sightseeing, local food, and urban charm. The tour includes a lunch with Tsingtao beer, allowing you to enjoy local brews with traditional dishes. The guide’s knowledge shines when discussing how Qingdao’s architecture tells the story of its colonial history and modern growth.
This tour is excellent for history and architecture buffs who want a deeper understanding of Qingdao’s past, paired with a taste of its brewing heritage. The reviews praise the guide for flexibility and local insights, making it a personalized experience.
Bottom line: If you love architecture, history, and local food paired with beer, this tour offers a comprehensive day in Qingdao.
$245.00 per person
4. QINGDAO: TSINGTAO BEER MUSEUM AND NIGHT MARKET TOUR
Finally, the evening Tsingtao Beer Museum and Night Market Tour is perfect for travelers eager to experience Qingdao’s vibrant nightlife. Starting with an in-depth visit to the Tsingtao Beer Museum, you’ll see vintage brewing equipment and learn about the beer’s history. Afterwards, the tour shifts to the Taidong Night Market, a lively hub of seafood stalls, snacks, and local vendors. Here, you can taste fresh seafood, haggle for bargains, and enjoy draft beer in a casual, bustling setting.
This tour provides a full sensory experience—history, food, and local culture all in one evening. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy night markets, street food, and lively atmospheres. The guided aspect helps you navigate the market’s best stalls and pair local dishes with Qingdao’s famous beer.
While the review details aren’t specified, the price ($279) reflects a comprehensive experience with the added excitement of Qingdao’s nightlife. Perfect for travelers wanting a relaxed yet lively way to end their day.
Bottom line: For a fun, social, and flavorful night out, this tour combines beer history with the buzz of Qingdao’s night market scene.
$279 per person
How to Choose Your Qingdao Drinking Tour
Choosing between these tours depends on what you’re after. If you want a mix of outdoor scenery and spiritual insight, go for the Laoshan half-day tour. For a full day of sightseeing paired with beer and local cuisine, the city tour with lunch offers great value. Want to explore Qingdao’s architecture and colonial history alongside beer? The historic architecture tour is your best bet. And if you’re after an evening adventure that combines history with street-food fun, the night market tour is perfect.
Consider your budget, available time, and interests. For example, if you love outdoor hikes and cultural sites, the Laoshan tour is ideal, especially since it includes a free bottle of Tsingtao. If you prefer a flexible, guided day with plenty of photo opportunities, the architecture tour delivers. For night owls and foodies, the evening market experience is unbeatable.
Booking early is wise, especially during peak travel seasons, as these experiences are popular. Check the tour links for availability and plan around your preferred activities.
Final Thoughts
Qingdao’s drinking tours showcase the city’s rich mix of natural beauty, historic architecture, and world-famous beer. Whether you’re looking for a half-day mountain adventure, a full day exploring colonial buildings, or a lively night market experience, there’s something for every type of traveler. For those who want a focused beer experience, the Tsingtao Museum tour provides history and tastings. For culture, the Laoshan or architecture tours are excellent choices. And for nightlife and street-food lovers, the night market tour caps off the day perfectly.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your interests and schedule. But no matter which tour you pick, Qingdao’s vibrant drinking scene and cultural depth won’t disappoint. Be sure to book early, and enjoy every sip and sight of this lively coastal city.