Qingdao is a charming city that combines seaside scenery, exotic architecture, and beer culture.

First Tier: Must-Visit Classics, Symbols of Qingdao

1. Badaguan Scenic Area

Recommended Reason: The ultimate embodiment of red tiles, green trees, blue sea, and sky; an international architectural exhibition
This is the place that best represents Qingdao’s “red tiles, green trees, blue sea, and sky” scenery. Ten roads named after ancient Chinese passes (such as Shanhaiguan and Juyongguan) intersect here, lined with exotic villas and dense trees, beautiful in all seasons, especially famous for peach blossoms in spring, crape myrtle in summer, ginkgo and maple leaves in autumn.

· Key Highlights:
· Huashi Building: A castle-style building blending Gothic and Romanesque styles, built by the sea, and a symbol of Badaguan.
· Princess Building: A classic Danish Nordic-style building, like a castle from a fairy tale.
· Linhuaiguan Road: A cypress-lined avenue, very photogenic.
· Travel Tips: Don’t just stick to the main roads; wander into the alleys for surprises. Best explored on foot, taking your time to enjoy.

2. Zhanqiao Pier and Zhongshan Road Area

Recommended Reason: Qingdao’s century-old landmark, the starting point of the city’s history
The pier extending into the sea is Qingdao’s oldest symbol. At the end of the pier is Huilange Pavilion, where you can overlook the entire Qingdao Bay and the nearby Xiaoqingdao Park. This is the first stop to experience Qingdao’s history and seaside charm.

· Key Highlights:
· The Pier itself: Enjoy the sea view and breeze; in winter (November to April), you can feed flocks of seagulls, a very heartwarming scene.
· Huilange Pavilion: A traditional ethnic-style four-story octagonal pavilion.
· Zhongshan Road: The old commercial street starting from the pier, with many historic buildings.
· Travel Tips: Visit at dusk to see the city lights come on. It’s recommended to also visit the nearby Catholic Church (St. Michael’s Cathedral).

3. Laoshan Scenic Area

Recommended Reason: The number one mountain by the sea, a wonder of mountain and sea connection
“Though Mount Tai is high, it’s not as good as Laoshan by the East Sea.” Laoshan is the highest peak along China’s coastline, with its unique mountain-sea connected landscape as its biggest highlight. On one side is the blue sea and sky with roaring waves; on the other side are strange peaks and rocks with deep Taoist temples.

· Key Highlights:
· Yangkou Tour Area: The most beautiful mountain-sea scenery section, accessible by cable car to enjoy the magnificent “sea and sky as one” view.
· Taiqing Tour Area: A Taoist cultural site with the famous Taiqing Palace, where it is said Pu Songling once lived and wrote "Strange Stories from a Chinese Studio."
· Qingshan Fishing Village: A fishing village with red-tiled roofs nestled between mountain and sea, like a paradise.
· Travel Tips: Laoshan is vast and requires at least a full day. It’s recommended to choose 1-2 core areas for in-depth exploration.

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Second Tier: Featured Highlights, Experience Qingdao’s Charm

4. Qingdao Beer Museum

Recommended Reason: An immersive experience of Qingdao’s beer culture and century-old history
Located at the old site of the Qingdao Brewery on Dengzhou Road, this is not just a museum but an interesting interactive experience. You can learn about the century-old legend of Qingdao Beer, see old brewing equipment, and finally taste “raw” beer fresh from the production line.

· Core Experiences:
· Century-Old History Exhibition: Learn about the development of Qingdao Beer.
· Production Process: Watch the real modern production line.
· Drunken House: A fun interactive experience.
· Free Tasting: The ticket includes one glass of raw beer, one glass of pure draft, and a pack of beer nuts.
· Travel Tips: A must-visit for beer lovers! After the visit, you can stroll around the nearby Taidong Pedestrian Street to experience the local night market.

5. Xiaoyushan Park / Signal Hill Park

Recommended Reason: A ten-minute climb to the best viewpoint overlooking the old city panorama
Both parks offer excellent panoramic views of Qingdao’s old city with its “red tiles, green trees, blue sea, and sky,” and both are easy to climb.

· How to Choose:
· Xiaoyushan: Closer to the sea with a wider view, you can see Zhanqiao Pier, Badaguan, the beach, and Signal Hill all at once, making it better for photos.
· Signal Hill: Closer to German-style buildings like the Governor’s Mansion, with a rotating observation tower that slowly spins 360 degrees.
· Travel Tips: If short on time, choose one; Xiaoyushan is recommended for its classic view.

6. Xiaomai Island Park

Recommended Reason: A newly popular check-in spot, a healing seaside park
After renovation, Xiaomai Island has become very beautiful, with large lawns, a solitary tree, winding wooden boardwalks, and clear blue water. It’s full of youthful, artistic, and romantic vibes, making it a favorite leisure spot for young people.

· Key Highlights:
· Popular Tree: A solitary tree on the island, a popular photo backdrop.
· Lawn and Sea: Perfect for picnics, daydreaming, and watching sunsets.
· Island Boardwalk: Walking along the boardwalk, every step is a scenic view.
· Travel Tips: Best to visit in the afternoon and stay until sunset for beautiful views. It’s busier on weekends.