Cheap Flights To Qingdao

The beautiful seaside city of Qingdao is located in the southeast of the Shandong Province in China, bordered by the Yellow Sea on two sides. For the 33 years leading up to 1949, the city was colonially occupied by Germany and Japan and showcases some spectacular European-style architecture alongside more traditional Oriental-style buildings.

Qingdao is a tourist haven, with the largest bathing beach in all of Asia and a stunning range of European colonial architecture. The city is exquisitely beautiful, with bright blue skies, clear blue seas, verdant trees and red roofs making up the skyline of a place also known as 'the Switzerland of the Orient'. Thanks to its position with sea on three sides, the city draws in visitors from across Asia and the wider world with its charming coastal landscapes.

There's a great range of nature-based attractions here including Lu Xun Park, Golden Sand Beach and Underwater World, an aquarium attraction with underwater tunnels, exhibitions and a performance hall. The city is famous for its food and drink scene, being the home of the iconic Tsingtao Beer, and a great place to try a range of delicious fresh seafood.

Things To Do

Qingdao has a wide range of tourist attractions and places of interest to enjoy, whether you're making a whistle-stop tour or are staying for longer to really immerse yourself in the wonderful culture and heritage here.

• Zhan Bridge

Also known as Qianhai Zhan Bridge and the Grand Pier, Zhan Bridge is situated on the coastal part of the southern end of Zhongstan Road. The bridge is known as the best place to kick off your visit to the city and take in some traditional Oriental-style architecture, as the bridge was constructed back in 1891 during the Qing Dynasty.

• Mount Laoshan

Mt Laoshan is located to the east of the city and is regarded as one of the most impressive mountains on the coast of China. In addition to its incredible beauty, the mountain has a significant role in Taoism, making it a must-see attraction.

• Number One Bathing Beach

The aptly-named Number One Bathing Beach is said to be the largest sandy beach in all of Asia, and is renowned for its beautiful clear waters, gently lulling waves and powdery soft sands. The beach has 8.9 acres of space and is well-equipped with more than 900 showers, ballrooms, restaurants and cafes.

Calendar Of Events

The city has a vibrant calendar of annual events including traditional Chinese festivals such as the Lantern Festival and a beer festival so popular it rivals even Germany's iconic Oktoberfest.

• Chinese Lantern Festival: The Lantern Festival takes place on the 14th day of the first month of the Chinese lunar calendar (always taking place between February 5th and March 7th). One of the country's most important festivals, the event is celebrated with the lighting of spectacular lanterns, dancing and fireworks.

• Cherry Blossom Festival: Each April and May, Qingdao attracts thousands of visitors with the annual cherry blossom festival. This is an unmissable opportunity to admire the delicate pink blossoms as they line the city's streets, an ideal romantic day out for couples.

• Qingdao Beer Festival: Each year the city hosts Asia's largest beer festival, an event so popular it's often dubbed 'Asia's Oktoberfest'. Festivities kick off in early August with a Grand Opening Ceremony Parade and focus on both Chinese and international beers.