Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport (TAO) took over from Liuting Airport in 2021, becoming the city’s main airport. It’s a sleek, modern hub that connects you to Qingdao’s gorgeous coastline and vibrant vibe. Whether you’re flying in for work, a vacation, or a quick layover, this guide has got you covered with all the essentials.
About Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport
Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport @Trip.com
Overview
Terminals
Facilities and Services
- Dining Options: A variety of restaurants and cafes serving Chinese, Western, and local Qingdao cuisine. Popular chains like Starbucks and KFC are available. Local specialties, such as Qingdao seafood and Tsingtao beer, can be found in some dining areas.
- Shopping: Duty-free shops for international travelers. Boutiques selling local souvenirs, Tsingtao beer, and Shandong handicrafts. Convenience stores for last-minute travel essentials.
- Lounges: Premium lounges for business and first-class passengers. Paid lounges are accessible to all travelers, offering comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and refreshments.
- Wi-Fi and Charging Stations: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport—numerous charging stations for electronic devices.
- Other Services:
- Currency exchange and ATMs.
- Luggage storage and packing services.
- Medical center and pharmacy.
- Children’s play areas and family-friendly facilities.
Getting to and from the Airport
Qingdao Airport Map/ Source:
Airport Shuttle Buses
Taxis
Qingdao Metro (Line 8)
Jiaodong International Airport 8 line / Source: China Airline Travel
Line 8 operates from 6:30 am to 9:30 pm and the frequency is around 9 minutes. Here is the Qingdao Metro Map that you can find where to transfer:
Qingdao Metro Map / Source: wikipedia
Ride-Hailing Services (Didi Chuxing)
Car Rentals
"I really liked that there was a wide and comfortable space waiting for me after I finished the immigration inspection! I always felt so uncomfortable because there was no place to sit when I went to the airport, but Qingdao Zhaodong International Airport was the best because it was wide and there were a lot of chairs and the food court was well-organized."
- Trip.com User: Hyun_
Tips for Travelers
Language
While English is spoken at major service counters, having your destination written in Chinese can be incredibly helpful, especially when taking a taxi or bus. If you’re not familiar with Mandarin, translation apps like Google Translate can be a lifesaver. Learning a few basic phrases, such as “hello” (nǐ hǎo) and “thank you” (xiè xie), can also go a long way.
Currency
The local currency is the Chinese Yuan (CNY). ATMs and currency exchange services are available at the airport, but it’s always a good idea to carry some cash for smaller purchases. Credit cards are widely accepted, but not everywhere, so having a mix of payment options is wise. If you’re planning to use public transportation, consider getting a metro card for added convenience.
Weather
Qingdao’s weather is generally mild, but it can get windy near the coast, so be sure to check the forecast before your trip. If you’re visiting during the summer, don’t forget your sunscreen and a hat—Qingdao’s beaches are a must-see, and you’ll want to be prepared for a day in the sun. In the winter, pack a warm jacket, as temperatures can drop significantly.
4G China eSIM 1 Day
- CountryChina
- Package Option500MB/Day
- Number of Days1 Day
- PriceUSD 0.49
4G China eSIM 10 Days
- CountryChina
- Package Option1GB/Day
- Number of Days10 Days
- PriceUSD 5.45
4G China eSIM 15 Days
- CountryChina
- Package Option1GB/Day
- Number of Days15 Days
- PriceUSD 8.35
Qingdao Airport Nearby Hotels
Qingdao Jiaodong Airport Hotel
Located right within the airport complex, this hotel offers convenience and comfort for transit passengers. With amenities like free Wi-Fi, a restaurant, and shuttle services, it’s a great option for those who want to stay close to the action. The rooms are modern and well-equipped, making it a comfortable choice for both short and long stays.
Holiday Inn Express Qingdao Jiaodong Airport
Just a short drive from the terminal, this hotel offers modern rooms, a complimentary breakfast, and shuttle services to and from the airport. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want a bit more space and comfort without being too far from the airport. The friendly staff and clean facilities make it a reliable option for all types of travelers.
Explore Popular Hotels in Qingdao
5 star
Good4267 Reviews
Harbin Central Avenue/Saint Sophia Cathedral/The Memorial Tower of Fig Harbin|2.8km from city center
This was my first time visiting Harbin and my first stay at Huate Hotel. During check-in, the front desk assigned me a room on the first floor of Building B (the second small building), which required walking through an outdoor corridor to reach.
First, regarding cleanliness: it was generally acceptable. Although there were some grease stains and spots on the desk that weren't wiped clean, considering the price, I won't complain too much.
Next, the environment: We stayed on the first floor, and we could hear everything – the cleaning cart passing by, conversations, and even the sound of toilets flushing upstairs. The soundproofing is terrible! I'm a light sleeper, and I barely slept the first night because of the flushing toilets!
Now, about the service: I particularly want to mention the afternoon tea – it was genuinely awful! Of course, you might say, ”What do you expect for free?” But the drinks were really undrinkable. It would have been better if they hadn't provided it at all, but they served tea with an unidentifiable strange taste, and biscuits that gave me a stomach ache. I'm not a picky person, but the afternoon tea was truly terrible!
Finally, the facilities: they were generally okay, nothing to complain about.
To briefly summarize the downsides, I haven't given a bad review because, overall, the location is good, and the general attitude felt pleasant. However, for someone on a trip, such poor soundproofing is truly a torment! This is an objective expression, and I hope there can be improvements. I wish them a prosperous business.FromTWD 1,451
Excellent7440 Reviews
Harbin Central Avenue/Saint Sophia Cathedral/The Memorial Tower of Fig Harbin|2.42km from city center
I booked a Grand King Room, and luckily, there was a promotion, so I paid a little extra to upgrade to a City View Suite. The room was very spacious, fully equipped with all amenities, and impeccably clean. There were also welcome gifts like capsule coffee and fruit. The service was excellent; staff would open the door for me when I entered and exited. During Halloween, Central Street was packed with people, and from the observation deck, you could see the bustling pedestrian street below, which was a fantastic experience. Upon checkout, I even received a lovely little gift. The breakfast was outstanding, with an unlimited self-service steak station where they cooked it fresh to order, allowing you to choose your preferred doneness. The meat quality was also excellent. Overall, it was a highly satisfying stay.FromTWD 3,070
Good5231 Reviews
Harbin Central Avenue/Saint Sophia Cathedral/The Memorial Tower of Fig Harbin|3.67km from city center
The hotel boasts an excellent location, conveniently close to all major attractions, and taxis are readily available. A convenience store is just a short walk to the left after exiting the lobby, and there's an open seating area outside the lobby, perfect for drinks and conversation.
Cleanliness was not an issue. While the facilities are a bit older, they are well-maintained. However, the outdated and inconvenient design of having to shower while standing in the bathtub is a definite minus, docking them half a point.
The river view from our room was lovely, offering unique charms both day and night. Unfortunately, reflections on the glass at night made it impossible to capture with a phone camera.
We stayed for three days and two nights. My wife and child arrived at the hotel at 8:30 AM on the first day but were unable to check in early. In comparable situations, other hotels of the same or higher star rating often provide early check-in service, which would merit full marks. Logically, not offering this means they can't receive the same score, so I'm docking half a point for service. Furthermore, citing 'fully booked' as an excuse for denying early check-in is unacceptable and leads to a two-point deduction from the service score. It's standard industry practice to continuously monitor room availability at a destination for days in advance.FromTWD 2,521
Excellent4609 Reviews
Harbin Ice And Snow World/The Sun Island Harbin|12.32km from city center
This is an absolutely wonderful hotel I've stayed in. The rooms are spacious and bright, and the staff is always ready to answer any questions. The hotel even has a back garden where you can get some exercise, and Sunac Land is nearby. The front desk service is professional and truly makes you feel taken care of. The rooms are clean, tidy, and well-equipped, the surrounding environment is beautiful, and the service is incredibly thoughtful and warm.FromTWD 1,906
Excellent2101 Reviews
Harbin Ice And Snow World/The Sun Island Harbin|12.36km from city center
For Songbei, the National Day holiday (October 1st) is a bit of an in-between season – too late for water activities and too early for snow. However, for friends visiting Harbin, this period perfectly highlights the hotel's excellent value for money. The price isn't much higher than usual, they offer a rich breakfast, and the surrounding amenities are all very comprehensive. A highly recommended stay!
**Facilities:** Given that it's a 2017 hotel, the facilities won't offer many surprises, but if you don't have extremely high demands for hotel hardware, you'll still be satisfied.
**Hygiene:** The room was tidied up well. My only regret was that the shower floor design in my room had a slight issue, leading to standing water after showering.
**Environment:** Nearby are Sunac Mall and Sunac Land, making dining, drinking, and entertainment very convenient. Crossing the river isn't far either; it's a 30-minute taxi ride to Haxi, and a ten-minute taxi ride to Shimau Avenue Subway Station (Line 2), from where it's just 3 stops to People's Square Station – very convenient.
**Service:** The service is very thoughtful. The front desk offers complimentary frozen pear juice and hot water, and staff members proactively greet guests and help with luggage, etc.
**Breakfast** is very rich. I particularly recommend the roasted tomatoes and freshly made wontons.FromTWD 1,809
Business travel
Good1434 Reviews
Harbin Central Avenue/Saint Sophia Cathedral/The Memorial Tower of Fig Harbin|2.63km from city center
For guests with medical needs, the hotel's proximity to the pulmonary hospital is a huge advantage. Whether it's an emergency requiring immediate attention or accompanying a friend or family member for check-ups and treatments, it saves a significant amount of travel time and cost, making it convenient and efficient. Furthermore, being near a hospital often means there are accompanying medical facilities like pharmacies, making it easier for guests to purchase medications if needed.FromTWD 761
Excellent4114 Reviews
Harbin Central Avenue/Saint Sophia Cathedral/The Memorial Tower of Fig Harbin|4.05km from city center
This hotel offers the best view in Harbin, boasting a prime spot overlooking the Songhua River with panoramic city views from every angle. It's also conveniently located. This high-end Chinoiserie French-Chinese style hotel features exquisite and luxurious interior design, from the lobby to the front desk, restaurant, and every detail in the rooms. The breakfast is very rich, and both the pool and gym offer great scenic views. The Chinese restaurant serves delicious food, and the night view is stunning. All the staff members are very friendly and helpful. The room cleaning is meticulous, and they even arranged for fruit and dessert to be sent to our room. A truly excellent stay.FromTWD 5,750
Outstanding1091 Reviews
Harbin Railway Station/Gogol Street/The first affiliated hospital of H Harbin|1.39km from city center
Excellent location. Harbin Railway Station is a convenient 10-minute walk via Jingxiao Street, and St. Iver Church and the Orphanage are right next door. Subway Line 2 is just a 5-minute walk away. Central Street and Saint Sophia Cathedral are a pleasant 20-minute-plus stroll, perfect for an after-dinner walk. Inside, the rain shower offered excellent water pressure, the pillows were incredibly comfortable, and the TV even had a sleep timer. For an even more perfect stay, I'd suggest a hairdryer that doesn't require constant button-holding and the removal of the deposit requirement.FromTWD 2,158
Very Good4544 Reviews
Harbin Central Avenue/Saint Sophia Cathedral/The Memorial Tower of Fig Harbin|2.82km from city center
Zhenning Hotel is a charming, comfortable hotel with a rustic Russian style. Upon entering, the polar bear specimen, vintage photo wall, and Russian-style sofas immediately draw you into the atmosphere. The rooms are equipped with tea sets for guests to enjoy. The location is excellent, with the Red Brick Street morning market downstairs, and Central Street and the church within walking distance. The staff even gave us a souvenir when we checked out. The whole trip was practically perfect.
Despite this, I still have some constructive feedback: the hotel's hardware is good, but the 'software' (service) needs improvement. The female staff members were quite attentive, while the male staff seemed like temporary workers. The hotel booking stated free parking, but it's just an alleyway behind the building that can only fit 4 cars. As we drove ourselves, a male staff member brusquely told us there was no parking available and we'd have to park on the street, but needed to move the car before 7 AM the next morning. When we asked if there were any nearby parking lots, he replied, ”Drive around yourselves and park wherever you like.” We then asked if he could call us if a space opened up from a guest checking out the next morning. The male staff member retorted, ”How would I know who's checking out with a car?” The next morning, upon asking again, he grudgingly told us there was a paid parking lot at the intersection of X and Y roads. As an out-of-towner, I couldn't use your parking, and you wouldn't even cooperate when I was willing to pay to park elsewhere? What kind of attitude is that? Have you even had hotel service training? Are you earning your salary?! Later, a female staff member quickly handled the situation upon learning about it, sending us a fruit basket, apologizing, and notifying me the next afternoon that a parking space had become available. So, the matter was resolved satisfactorily.
For those driving, I recommend navigating to the public parking lot at the intersection of Zhongyi Road and Jingwei Road. This hotel is still worth recommending.FromTWD 765
Very Good2690 Reviews
Harbin Railway Station/Gogol Street/The first affiliated hospital of H Harbin|1.34km from city center
I'm totally smitten with this hotel! The location is superb; it's so close to the subway and bus, making it incredibly convenient for shopping, sightseeing, and exploring local spots. The room is decorated warmly and kept very clean, making for a comfortable stay. The breakfast really hit the spot for me, offering both Western and Chinese options. I particularly enjoyed the freshly made Jianbing Guozi—it felt so authentic and tasted delicious. The hotel facilities are also quite comprehensive, with a hairdryer, charger, and good toiletries. Plus, there's a gym where I could get a relaxing workout in [strong emoji]. It's also very photogenic, with a French luxurious yet elegant style. For anyone visiting Harbin, I highly recommend choosing this hotel [smiling emoji].FromTWD 1,517
Family friendly
Excellent5347 Reviews
Harbin Central Avenue/Saint Sophia Cathedral/The Memorial Tower of Fig Harbin|2.14km from city center
This hotel far exceeded my expectations after checking in. It was clean, tidy, and the service was excellent. They even provide a Dyson hairdryer, and the shower pressure is fantastic – perfect for warming up after a snowy day in Harbin. The location is superb, just a few minutes' walk from Saint Sophia Cathedral and Central Street, and a pleasant stroll to the riverside. It's also very close to the train station. The front desk staff were incredibly thoughtful; not only did they give me a complimentary room upgrade, but they also provided hand warmers. Plus, there was an ample supply of bottled water. Thumbs up! 👍FromTWD 2,097
513 Reviews
Harbin Railway Station/Gogol Street/The first affiliated hospital of H Harbin|1.55km from city center
Holiday Inn is as always good value for money international hotel chain.
I stayed here during the Spring Festival Holidays (**************), so did not find any restaurants open nearby. The staff was overwhelmed during morning breakfast hours due to lots of guests. Nonetheless they were hardworking and put in extra efforts to serve all the guests, well beyond the breakfast time. Appreciate their service attitude.
A bad experience would be with the washing machine which wouldn't work without coins, which is quite weird as usually the self-service laundry is free or could be operated by QR code payments. I had already put the detergent on the clothes making them wet, only to be told that I had to wait until the next day morning as the front desk did not have coins, I had checkout in the morning.FromTWD 1,318
Very Good2957 Reviews
Harbin Ice And Snow World/The Sun Island Harbin|8.36km from city center
The hotel rooms were great, well-equipped, and the pool was very clean. They even made cookies, which made the kids very happy. We had booked two west-facing river view rooms, but because there was a wedding party on that floor, the hotel proactively upgraded us to a full river view on the 24th floor, saying it would be quieter. Unfortunately, there was another wedding party on that floor the next day, and they were incredibly rude, shouting and running up and down the entire hallway from before 7 AM. It was impossible to sleep. This went on until at least 8:30 AM when I went for a swim. I even called the hotel during this time hoping they could intervene, but to no avail. I completely understand that people celebrating a wedding are excited, but you didn't book the entire floor or even half the corridor, and shouting back and forth across the hallway like that really ruined our stay.FromTWD 2,875
Excellent3588 Reviews
Harbin Central Avenue/Saint Sophia Cathedral/The Memorial Tower of Fig Harbin|3km from city center
Wonderful 6-Day Stay at Seine Hotel – Highly Recommended!
I recently spent six days at Seine Hotel in Harbin, and my experience was fantastic! From the moment I arrived, the staff was warm, welcoming, and attentive, making sure I felt at home throughout my stay.
Location: The hotel is conveniently situated, making it easy to explore the city's attractions, including the beautiful Ice and Snow Festival, Central Street, and Songhua River. Transportation was also convenient, with taxis and public transit readily available.
Room & Comfort: My room was clean, spacious, and well-maintained, with a cozy bed and all the necessary amenities. The heating system worked perfectly, which was essential for Harbin's cold winter weather! The housekeeping team did a great job ensuring the room was spotless every day.
Service & Staff: The staff was exceptional—friendly, professional, and always ready to assist. They helped with recommendations, taxi bookings, and even small translation needs. Their hospitality truly enhanced my experience.
Overall Experience: My six-day stay at Seine Hotel was comfortable, enjoyable, and stress-free. Whether you're visiting Harbin for tourism or business, this hotel offers great value for money, excellent service, and a warm atmosphere. I would definitely stay here again!
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (5/5)
Would you like to add anything personal, like a special experience you had there?FromTWD 1,765
Outstanding5245 Reviews
International Exhibition Center/Provincial Government Harbin|3.51km from city center
The hotel's location is excellent. It's not far from the airport shuttle bus stop, about a 10-minute walk. Wanda Plaza is right next door, offering plenty of shopping and dining options. I recall there being Harbin's only golf course directly opposite the hotel, which has now been converted into an open park, attracting many people for exercise and leisure.
My first stay at a Sofitel was when our company held a conference in Harbin, and our branch office booked it as the conference hotel. Due to the conference, I didn't get much of a chance to form a strong impression.
This time, 11 years later, I had the opportunity to return. You can definitely see the passage of time reflected in the hotel rooms and facilities. However, thanks to the hotel's excellent routine maintenance, these signs of age actually highlight the enduring quality of the Sofitel brand. As an Accor member, this was my sixth Sofitel experience, having previously stayed at those in Shanghai, Beijing, Shenyang, Chengdu, and Xining.
Check-in and check-out were both very fast. This stay, my room was also upgraded for free to a 'Smart Breathing Room,' which was great. Knowing my room didn't include breakfast, the front desk specifically mentioned the hotel's 'add 1 RMB for breakfast' promotion when I checked in. The customer service manager contacted me beforehand to ask about my room preferences and made arrangements in advance. The humidifier in the room was a nice touch; winter nights in Harbin can be quite cold, and running the air conditioning can make it very dry, so a humidifier made it much more comfortable.
Due to work, I was in and out quickly and didn't get a chance to experience the hotel's breakfast. I hope to make up for this small regret next time.
If I had to mention any downsides, based on my experience:
1. The TV channels – there were no international channels like HBO or Phoenix TV.
2. Perhaps because the equipment is older, there were no USB ports or wireless charging facilities by the bed, unlike newer hotels, to charge mobile devices.
Overall, the hotel's location is good, the staff are service-oriented, and its downtown location makes it very convenient for business trips. I would consider staying here again.FromTWD 1,937
Exploring Qingdao：Things to do
Qingdao is a city that truly has it all—stunning natural beauty, rich history, and a vibrant culture. Whether you’re here for a short visit or an extended stay, there’s plenty to see and do.
Zhaoqiao Pier @Trip.com
Stroll Along Zhanqiao Pier
Zhanqiao Pier is a famous landmark in Qingdao, offering scenic ocean views and historic architecture. It’s a great spot for photography and relaxing walks by the sea.
Explore Badaguan Scenic Area
This picturesque district is known for its European-style villas and tree-lined streets. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll and offers great photo opportunities, especially during spring and autumn.
Visit Tsingtao Brewery Museum
Qingdao is home to the world-famous Tsingtao beer. The Tsingtao Brewery Museum lets visitors learn about the brewing process and enjoy fresh beer tastings.
Hike Laoshan Mountain
One of China’s most beautiful coastal mountains, Laoshan is famous for its stunning landscapes, Taoist temples, and hiking trails. The mountain offers breathtaking views of the Yellow Sea.
Relax at Qingdao’s Beaches
Qingdao has several beautiful beaches, such as No.1 Bathing Beach and Shilaoren Beach. These are great places for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports.
FAQs
How far is Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport from the city center?
The airport is about 55 km (34 miles) from downtown Qingdao, and it takes around 1 hour by taxi or metro.What is the best way to get from the airport to Qingdao city center?
The fastest option is a taxi (150-200 CNY, 1 hour). The cheapest option is the Airport Express Metro (Line 8, 1 hour travel time).Does Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport have free Wi-Fi?
Yes, the airport provides free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal.What international flights operate from Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport?
The airport offers direct flights to Seoul, Tokyo, Singapore, Frankfurt, and more.