Qingdao is a city that offers more than just its famous beer and seaside charm. Its diverse landscape, rich architecture, and cultural sites make it a top destination for tours that satisfy a range of interests. Whether you’re up for hiking Taoist monasteries, exploring colonial-era buildings, or tasting local bites at night markets, Qingdao has a lot to offer. We particularly like the Qingdao Private Day Trip to Mutianyu Great Wall because it combines a trip back in time with spectacular views and fun with a toboggan ride — a reminder that even a day trip from Qingdao can be an adventure.
Some tours stand out for their depth, like the Qingdao Highlights Two-day Private Guided Tour, which takes you across the city’s most iconic spots and the stunning Laoshan Mountain. Others focus on local flavor, like the Qingdao Night Bites & Hidden Alleys, offering a taste of Qingdao’s vibrant street food scene. Whatever your interest, this list covers a variety of experiences for every traveler.
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 to see the Mutianyu section of the Great Wall — one of China’s most scenic and less crowded sections. The highlight is the flexibility to choose between a cable car or ski lift to ascend the wall, and a toboggan ride down that adds a fun twist. The tour includes private vehicle, entrance fees, and an English-speaking guide.
What makes this tour stand out is the seamless logistics, with a 3.5-hour bullet train journey and personalized attention. With five-star reviews, travelers praise the guide’s detailed explanations and the opportunity to explore at their own pace. The full-day itinerary also includes a local lunch, making it a convenient way to experience a UNESCO World Heritage site without hassle. Perfect for those who want an authentic, private experience combining history, scenery, and a bit of thrill.
Bottom line: Exceptional value for a comprehensive, private visit to one of the world’s most famous landmarks, suited for history lovers and adventure seekers alike.
2. Qingdao Highlights Two-day Private Guided Tour
This two-day tour offers an immersive dive into Qingdao’s most iconic sites. It’s perfect if you want to take your time exploring the city’s colonial architecture, beer culture, and scenic spots like Laoshan Mountain. The itinerary includes walking tours of Xiaoyushan Park, visits to the German-era villas of Badaguan, and a stop at the Qingdao Beer Museum for tastings.
What makes this tour unique is the expert guide’s ability to balance cultural insight with leisure, giving you time to absorb the atmosphere. A clear highlight is the visit to Laoshan, where you can hike and enjoy Taoist temples without feeling rushed. Reviewers mention the guide’s 25 years of experience and how well the tour is tailored to your interests.
Bottom line: This tour is ideal for travelers who want a thorough look at Qingdao in two relaxing days, combining history, architecture, and local flavors.
3. Private Qingdao Laoshan half day tour with one bottle of Tsingdao beer as gift
This half-day experience is a perfect snapshot of Laoshan Mountain, known as the birthplace of Taoism. The tour includes a visit to Taiqing Palace, the waterfalls, and stunning coastal views. The private transfer ensures a comfortable journey, and you’ll receive a bottle of Tsingdao beer as a souvenir — a nice touch for beer lovers.
The tour features professional guides who share stories about Lao Shan’s significance in Taoist tradition and local legends. Reviewers highlight the friendly guides and how smoothly the trip runs, even with a tight schedule. It’s a good choice if you’re short on time but still want to experience Laoshan’s spiritual and natural beauty.
Bottom line: Great for those who want a focused, relaxed visit to Laoshan with a local touch and a beer to toast your experience.
4. Qingdao: Private City Tour with Beer & a Delectable Lunch
Number 4 on our list blends Qingdao’s historic architecture with its famous beer culture. This private tour takes you to the Tsingtao Brewery Museum, the Zhanqiao Pier, and Xiaoyushan Park. The highlight is the beer tasting at the brewery, followed by a local Shandong-style lunch.
The personalized approach means your guide can tailor the stops to your interests, making it ideal for first-time visitors who want a taste of everything. The tour’s focus on local craft and cultural sites makes it a well-rounded experience. Reviewers note the friendly guide and the delicious lunch, which adds value to the $220 price tag.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a mix of beer, culture, and city sights, with flexibility and local flavor.
$220 per person
5. All-Inclusive Private Day Tour: Qingdao Highlights with Lunch
This comprehensive day tour packs the best of Qingdao into about 8 hours. It includes Laoshan Scenic Area with cable car, Qingdao Taiqing Palace, and Xiaoyushan Park, plus a local restaurant lunch. The tour is ideal for those wanting a full overview with personalized attention.
What makes this tour stand out is the door-to-door service and the chance to visit Small Qingdao Island from Lanchao Pavilion. Reviewers appreciate the well-paced itinerary and local insights provided by the guide. The price of $346 reflects the extensive coverage, making it a good deal for a full day of sightseeing.
Bottom line: Suited for travelers who want a complete, flexible experience with all logistics arranged for a hassle-free exploration of Qingdao.
$346.00 per person
6. Private Qingdao Laoshan day tour with lunch & round way cable car
This full-day tour emphasizes hiking and scenic views of Laoshan Scenic Area. Your private guide will take you along the Southern Route, visiting Qingdao Longtan Waterfall, Taiqing Palace, and riding the cable car both ways for sweeping mountain vistas. The package includes lunch and all entrance fees.
What makes this tour appealing is the combination of scenic hiking and cultural exploration, with personalized attention. Reviewers comment on the promptness and knowledge of the guide, making it a memorable experience. The $240 price point offers excellent value for a full day of active sightseeing.
Bottom line: Best suited for active travelers who want to combine outdoor adventure with cultural discovery in Laoshan.
$240.00 per person
7. Qingdao Private Tour: City Highlights and Laoshan Mountain with Lunch+Cable Car
This flexible full-day private tour starts with Laoshan Scenic Area, where you can choose a cable car or hiking route. After exploring Taoist temples and waterfalls, you’ll head to the city’s signature sights like the Zhanqiao Pier and Xiaoyushan Park. The tour includes lunch and hotel transfers.
What makes it stand out is the customizable itinerary and the opportunity to see both mountain and city in one day. Reviewers enjoy the personalized approach and the comprehensive coverage. At $268, it offers a balanced mix of outdoor and urban experiences.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a customizable private tour that covers Qingdao’s natural and urban highlights.
$268.00 per person
8. Qingdao Historic architectural day tour with Tsingdao beer during Lunch
Number 8 takes you through Qingdao’s European-inspired architecture, including the German Governor’s Residence and Zhongshan Road. The tour also features a lunch at a local restaurant with Tsingtao beer, emphasizing Qingdao’s colonial past and brewing heritage.
The tour’s strength is its focus on architectural heritage and local culinary culture, making it ideal for history and design enthusiasts. Reviewers mention the guide’s knowledge of Qingdao’s colonial architecture and how smoothly the day runs. The $245 price covers a full day of culture.
Bottom line: Perfect for history buffs and architecture lovers wanting a relaxed day exploring Qingdao’s European past.
$245.00 per person
9. Qingdao Private Day Tour to Laoshan Mountain with Lunch and Cable Car
This private day trip focuses on Laoshan Mountain, offering cable car rides and visits to Taiqing Palace and Longtan Waterfall. The guide shares stories about Laoshan’s importance in Taoist tradition, making it educational and scenic. The tour includes lunch and entrance fees.
Although reviews are mixed, with some saying it’s a nice overview and others noting it’s a shorter experience, it remains a favored choice for those wanting a guided, hassle-free day. The $238 cost provides access to Laoshan’s highlights with minimal effort.
Bottom line: Good for travelers seeking a guided, scenic view of Laoshan on a flexible schedule.
$238.00 per person
10. Qingdao by Night: 4-Hour Illumination Journey with Options
Number 10 offers an evening tour exploring Qingdao’s illuminated landmarks. With three different packages, you can tailor your night experience from quiet sunset views to lively night markets. It’s a relaxed, intimate way to see the city after dark.
Because it’s designed to skip crowds and find secret viewpoints, this tour appeals to those who want an authentic local experience without the daytime hustle. The $160 price is competitive for a personalized night tour.
Bottom line: Best suited for night owls and those wanting a quieter, more authentic view of Qingdao’s evening scene.
$160 per person
11. Qingdao Charm: History, Crafts, Offshore View & Night Market
Number 11 is a full-day tour that covers Zhanqiao Pier, modern May Fourth Square, and Taoist arts like lacquer fan making. It culminates in visiting Taidong Night Market, immersing you in both traditional and modern Qingdao.
This tour is praised for its variety of experiences and local insights. Reviewers mention the guide’s knowledgeable commentary and the chance to try crafts firsthand. For $209, it offers a well-rounded cultural and scenic experience.
Bottom line: Great for travelers interested in combining sightseeing with hands-on cultural activities.
$209 per person
12. Qingdao Night Bites & Hidden Alleys: Local Flavor Walk Feast
This three-hour evening walk takes you through Pichaiyuan Streets, sampling seafood dumplings, shrimp pancakes, and more. It’s perfect for food lovers wanting an authentic taste of Qingdao’s street scene.
The tour’s highlight is the local street food and atmospheric alleys full of stories. Reviewers love the interactive experience and the diverse flavors. At just $155, it’s an affordable way to enjoy Qingdao’s lively nightlife.
Bottom line: Ideal for foodies wanting an immersive, tasty evening exploring Qingdao’s street food scene.
$155 per person
13. Qingdao + Weihai Day Tour with Buffet
Number 13 combines two coastal cities in one day, visiting Weihai’s Diamond Beach and Olympic Sailing Center. The tour includes a buffet dinner with sea views and a spectacular fireworks display.
It’s best for travelers wanting a full coastal experience with diverse sights and delicious local seafood. Reviewers mention the nice balance of sightseeing and relaxation. The $265 price covers a full day of sightseeing, meals, and transport.
Bottom line: Suited for those who want to see multiple coastal highlights in one day with good food.
$265 per person
14. Tianjin Private Tour: The Ultimate Bucket-List Destinations
Although outside Qingdao, this tour offers Tianjin’s famous Ancient Cultural Street and Porcelain House in a guided day trip. It’s for travelers wanting a comprehensive look at northern China’s urban gems. Includes private vehicle and guide.
While not in Qingdao, it’s noteworthy for travelers extending their trip. Reviewers highlight the personalized itinerary and smooth logistics. At $266, it’s for those craving a more extensive cultural experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for those with extra time and curiosity about China’s northern cities.
$266 per person
15. Qingdao: Badaguan Scenic Area Guided Walking Tour
Rounding out the list, this half-day guided walk explores Badaguan’s historic villas, including Huashilou and the Princess Building. The tour is leisurely, allowing you to soak in the architecture and seaside atmosphere.
Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guide and relaxed pace. At $259 for 7.5 hours, it’s a thoughtful way to experience Qingdao’s elegant seaside neighborhoods.
Bottom line: Best for architecture lovers and those wanting a laid-back stroll through Qingdao’s colonial past.
$259 per person
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour in Qingdao, consider your interests—are you drawn to mountains and Taoism, or do you want to explore historic architecture and beer culture? For a full-immersion experience, the Qingdao Highlights Two-day Private Guided Tour offers a detailed look, while the All-Inclusive Private Day Tour provides a comprehensive single-day overview.
Budget and time also matter. If you want a short half-day, the Laoshan Half-Day Tour is perfect. For nighttime adventures, the Qingdao by Night offers a memorable way to see the city’s illuminated landmarks.
Booking early is advisable, especially during peak season, so check availability and consider your travel style—whether you prefer cultural exploration, active hikes, or culinary adventures. Many tours are private, allowing you to tailor the experience, making your trip in Qingdao both enjoyable and memorable.
Final Thoughts
Qingdao’s diversity means there’s a tour for nearly every type of traveler. From spectacular mountain temples and beachside scenery to historic architecture and local night markets, the options listed here reveal the city’s many layers. The Qingdao Private Day Trip to Mutianyu Great Wall stands out for its combination of history and fun, while the Two-day Highlights Tour is perfect for a deep dive.
For a more laid-back experience, the Qingdao Night Bites lets you enjoy authentic street food, and outdoor lovers will appreciate the scenic walks in Badaguan or Laoshan. Whatever your style, booking a tour early ensures you’ll make the most of Qingdao’s rich offerings.
Now, the only thing left is to pick your adventure, pack your curiosity, and get ready for a memorable visit to this coastal city!