Three days in Qingdao shattered my spending habits

June in Qingdao offers perfect sunshine and gentle sea breezes, making it an ideal time to travel! Every snapshot looks like a scene from a movie, absolutely stunning 😭 Day 1: Stroll along Zhanqiao Pier and the Old Town 🚶 In the morning, head to Qingdao’s iconic landmark, Zhanqiao Pier. This 440-meter-long sea corridor symbolizes Qingdao. It’s best to arrive before 8 AM to avoid crowds and enjoy the morning sea view. At the end of the pier is Huilan Pavilion, where you can climb up for a distant view; the ticket costs 4 RMB. Then walk 10 minutes to the Qingdao Post and Telecommunications Museum, a German-style building showcasing century-old communication equipment, with a 20 RMB entrance fee. For lunch, dine at Zhongshan Road No.1 🍜, and try Qingdao’s specialties like mackerel dumplings and spicy stir-fried clams. Afterward, walk 5 minutes to the Catholic Church, a Gothic twin-tower church that’s a great photo spot 📷, with a 10 RMB ticket 💶. In the afternoon, visit Jiangsu Road Christian Church and the former Governor’s Mansion to experience German architectural charm. At dusk, go to Signal Hill Park to watch the sunset 🌅 and climb the rotating observation deck for a panoramic view of Qingdao; the ticket costs 15 RMB 💶. For dinner, try Jiulong Restaurant, where the spicy squid and braised knife fish are must-orders 🍝. Day 2: Laoshan Day Trip Depart at 8 AM for Laoshan Scenic Area. It’s recommended to buy the 130 RMB combined ticket for Taiqing Palace and Yangkou. Start with Taiqing Palace, the ancestral temple of the Quanzhen Taoist sect, visiting ancient buildings like the Three Officials Hall and Three Pure Ones Hall. Have lunch at a local farmhouse restaurant in the scenic area 🍱, with recommended dishes like Laoshan mushroom stewed chicken and seafood tofu 🍤. In the afternoon, take the cable car up to Yangkou Scenic Area (one-way 35 RMB) and hike to Lion Peak and Mitian Cave. Those with good stamina can challenge the 3-hour round trip to the summit of Laoshan. After descending, relax at Shilaoren Beach, where the fine sand 🏖️ is perfect for swimming 🏊. For dinner, choose Chuange Fish Dumplings, famous for their cuttlefish and yellow croaker dumplings. Day 3: Coastal Charm Experience In the morning, visit Badaguan Scenic Area and stroll among European-style villas like Huashilou and Princess Building. The best photo spot is Zhengyangguan Road. Then head to the Second Beach, which is less crowded and has clear water, perfect for photos 📷. Before 11 AM, visit the Beer Museum (ticket 60 RMB) to learn about Qingdao beer’s century-old history 📜, including tastings of original draft beer. For lunch, try the nearby seafood stalls, with steamed oysters and scallion-braised sea cucumber highly recommended. In the afternoon, go to Xiaomai Island Park, a trendy new spot with a coastal walkway and lawns, ideal for picnics and photos. At dusk, watch the sunset 🌅 at the Olympic Sailing Center; Lover’s Pier is an excellent viewing point. For dinner, choose Kaihai Hongdao Seafood and try fresh seafood cooked to order. Accommodation Suggestions: For ample budget, choose Seaview Garden Hotel; mid-range options include Orange Crystal Hotel (Train Station branch); for hostels, the International Youth Hostel near Zhanqiao Pier is a good choice. 🚌 Transportation Tips: Take Metro Line 3 from the airport directly to the city. For getting around attractions, taxis (starting fare 9 RMB) or buses are recommended. For Laoshan, consider joining a day tour or hiring a private car. ✨ Notes: September to October is the best travel season; bring sun protection. Choose seafood restaurants with clear pricing. During the Beer Festival (August), book accommodations in advance.