Qingdao

Marked by the huge flaming sculpture called 'Wind of May', May Fourth Square is a symbol of the 1919 May Fourth Movement — a key moment in China’s modern history when students led an uprising that sparked a wave of nationalism. The square connects the Qingdao municipal government building with the coast, and it’s made up of two main areas: City Hall Square and Central Square. By day, it’s a popular spot for a stroll, and by night, the square is brought to life with colourful lights and a graceful water fountain.

Lying between Huiquan Cape and Taiping Cape, Badaguan (meaning 'Eight Great Passes') is named after the eight great passes of the Great Wall. The area was once occupied by several Western countries, which is reflected in the eclectic mix of architectural styles from over twenty nations, including England, Russia, Germany, France, Denmark, and more. Badaguan shines in every season: in spring, Shaoguan Road bursts into bloom with peach flowers; in summer, crepe myrtles line Zhengyangguan Road in vibrant colours; while in autumn, the maple leaves turn a striking red. Even in winter, the area remains picturesque, with the cedars keeping their evergreen hue. Whatever the time of year, Badaguan offers a new charm waiting to be explored.

Named during the Tang Dynasty when Taoism was at its peak, Laoshan is one of those places that is as much about the views as it is about the history. The area is dotted with iconic sites like Laoshan Jufeng Peak, Liuqing River, Taiping Palace, Yangkou Beach, and the Nine Waters and Eighteen Pools — each offering a different slice of the region’s natural beauty. From rugged mountain peaks to serene beaches, Laoshan's landscapes are a traveller’s dream. If you're planning to explore, there are a few routes to choose from. The southern route covers the towering Jufeng Peak and the peaceful Taiping Palace. The eastern route takes you to Yangkou Beach and the Qipan Stone Area, while the central route is all about the lush Nine Waters and Eighteen Pools.

Standing proudly amid the European-style buildings of Qingdao, it'll be hard to miss St Michael's Cathedral. A German-style Catholic church, it’s the largest Romanesque Revival structure in the province and the only consecrated church in China. Inside, a newly installed organ adds a special touch, played only during Mass.

Housed in the original Tsingtao Brewery, the Tsingtao Brewery Museum is a walk through the history of China’s most famous beer. The old brewing equipment is still on display, giving visitors a step-by-step look at how the beer was originally crafted. The tour wraps up with tastings of two brews—a fresh draught and a unique cask ale—perfect for getting a taste of Qingdao’s iconic beer right at the source.

Yinshatan Beach, or Silver Beach, sits farther from the city than its popular neighbour Jinshatan (Gold Beach), but that distance brings quieter shores and a slightly more relaxed vibe. This 3,000-metre-long crescent-shaped beach, with its firmer sand, makes a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, or a peaceful stroll by the water. Less crowded than Gold Beach, it’s an ideal escape for those looking to enjoy Qingdao’s coastline without the bustle.

Set on a hilltop, Little Fish Hill Park is a favourite spot for panoramic views over Qingdao. With nautical-themed pavilions and a fantastic vantage point, it’s ideal for soaking up views of the city’s red-tiled roofs, lush green spaces, and the Yellow Sea stretching out below.

First held in 1991, the Qingdao International Beer Festival has grown into Asia’s largest beer event. Every August, starting on the second Sunday of the month, the festival kicks off and runs for 16 days in the city’s Shilaoren National Tourism Resort. This sprawling 35-hectare 'Beer City' is built specifically for the occasion, where beer lovers from all over the world come together. While you can always grab a Tsingtao Beer in Qingdao, nothing compares to the carnival buzz of the festival. Expect a fun mix of live music, international brews, and plenty of opportunities to sample the local favourite—Tsingtao Beer, of course. One quirky Qingdao tradition to note: fresh beer is often sold in plastic bags. So, don’t be surprised when you see people strolling the streets with a bag of beer in hand. It's all part of the fun.

Originally built for the 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Sailing Competitions, the Qingdao International Sailing Centre has since become a sailing boat dock. You can rent a boat for a scenic tour around the bay or simply unwind at one of the nearby bars, enjoying a cold drink and the refreshing sea breeze.