A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Amsterdam vs. Wernigerode for Nightlife, Old Town, Backpackers, and Attractions

Should you visit Amsterdam or Wernigerode?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Amsterdam or Wernigerode, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam is a historic, canal-lined, and party-oriented city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for nightlife, live music, and shopping.

Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a cute, quintessential, and fairytale-like town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Amsterdam and Wernigerode: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Rijksmuseum
Things to Consider
  • Less family-friendly
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Amsterdam or Wernigerode?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Amsterdam. Although Amsterdam and Wernigerode are popular destinations, Amsterdam has more sights and attractions for tourists. Amsterdam is very popular for its nightlife, music, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Wernigerode attracts visitors for its food, historical sights, and small town charm. Amsterdam is more touristy than Wernigerode and is known for its scenic canals, huge biking culture, and its wild nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Rijksmuseum. Wernigerode is famous for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle.

How is Amsterdam different from Wernigerode?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Wernigerode and Amsterdam. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Amsterdam or Wernigerode?

Amsterdam
Wernigerode

Plenty of people visit the excellent sights and museums in both Amsterdam and Wernigerode.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Amsterdam can be an interesting and educational experience. The city has a number of sights and museums including the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace. The world renowned Rijksmuseum is a must see for any art enthusiast. There are also many smaller, lesser known museums that are well worth a visit.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Wernigerode. In addition to its beautiful old town, the highlight of a visit to this town is exploring the Wernigerode Castle. Other attractions include the Museum für Luftfahrt und Technik and the Miniaturenpark.


Is the Food Better in Amsterdam or Wernigerode? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Amsterdam
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a nice place to visit for its restaurant scene. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wernigerode. As a touristy town, you'll find a number of restaurants that serve traditional food. There are also sausage stands and plenty of ice cream shops.

Amsterdam may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. Food is expensive in this city, particularly in the touristy areas. There are some markets that sell great local items and the dessert cafes are awesome!

Is Amsterdam or Wernigerode Better for Nightlife?

Amsterdam
Wernigerode

Amsterdam is very popular for nightlife. However, Wernigerode is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Amsterdam is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. The city has some of the best nightlife in Europe. There are plenty of bars, dance clubs, and other activities that you can enjoy throughout the night.

Those looking for nightlife will find a few places to hang out in Wernigerode. The small town isn't known for its nightlife scene but there are plenty of places where you can grab a beer and have a relaxing night.

Is Amsterdam or Wernigerode Better for Music?

Amsterdam
Wernigerode

Amsterdam is very popular for live music. However, Wernigerode is not a live music destination.

Amsterdam is a world class music destination. The city attracts its share of world renowned DJs and musicians. Popular music venues include Paradiso, De Melkweg, and Chicago Social Club.

Wernigerode is not a live music destination.


Is Amsterdam or Wernigerode Better for its Old Town?

Amsterdam
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is an unbeatable place for its old town. Also, Amsterdam is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town charm.

With a famous historical old-town, Wernigerode offers plenty to see. If you're looking for an almost flawless old town with charm and few imperfections, then this is your place.

Amsterdam is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The old city center is one of the best preserved in Europe. It's enclosed by canals and has many historic churches, plazas, and buildings.

Is the Shopping Better in Amsterdam or Wernigerode?

Amsterdam
Wernigerode

Amsterdam is a well-known place for shopping. However, Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Amsterdam is an extremely popular place for shoppers. For the best shopping in town, head to the Nine Streets area in the historic district and the two main shopping streets of The Kalverstraat and Leidsestraat.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Amsterdam or Wernigerode Better for Families?

Amsterdam
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is well known for its family-friendly activities. However, Amsterdam is not particularly known for its kid-friendly activities.

Wernigerode is a very kid-friendly town. The town feels like you've landed in a fairytale book, which your kids will love. There's a train and a castle to explore. There's also the fun citizen and miniature parks and the fairytale trail. In addition to all of the sights and attractions, there are playgrounds and animal attractions that kids will love.

For families, Amsterdam is not always the best place to visit. The city does it's share of partying, and there are some areas, like the red light district, that aren't exactly kid-friendly, but there are some nice parks, playgrounds, and the impressive NEMO Science Museum that you can explore.


Is Amsterdam or Wernigerode Better for Couples?

Amsterdam
Wernigerode

Amsterdam and Wernigerode are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Amsterdam frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. For many, a visit to this city is all about the party, but for couples who enjoy history, architecture, or boat rides along the scenic canals, the city also makes a great getaway. It's also fun to stay in a houseboat and have a unique experience.

Wernigerode is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This fairytale town is something special with many beautiful buildings, a castle, and great restaurants that make for a romantic weekend.

Is Amsterdam or Wernigerode Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Amsterdam
Wernigerode

Amsterdam is very popular for backpackers. Also, Wernigerode is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Amsterdam is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. With it's party-hard personality and countless low price hostels, this city attracts its share of backpackers. Do note that many of the hostels aren't focused on quality, so make sure you understand what you're paying for. It may be worth booking a slightly more expensive room in a hotel.

It's common for backpackers to visit Wernigerode. There are enough hostels in town to keep prices reasonable. This is also a very touristy town, so you're likely to meet other travelers.

Is Amsterdam or Wernigerode Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Amsterdam
Wernigerode

Amsterdam is very popular for its public transit. Also, Wernigerode is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for times when you don't have a car.

Amsterdam has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The city has metros, trams, buses, and ferries that help you get around. Since this is the Netherlands, getting around by bike is very popular.

Wernigerode has some public transit options. You can take the bus to town, but once you arrive its best to explore on foot. There's also a charming narrow grade railway that connect the towns of the area.


Is Amsterdam or Wernigerode a more walkable city?

Amsterdam
Wernigerode

Amsterdam and Wernigerode both are terrific when exploring on foot.

Getting around Amsterdam on foot is easy. The historic parts of the city are very walkable and much of the city is best explored on foot.

Wernigerode is a very easy city to get around on foot. You can easily explore the town and the nearby castle on foot.

For even more information, also check out Is Amsterdam Worth Visiting? and Is Wernigerode Worth Visiting?.

Should I spend more time in Wernigerode or Amsterdam?

How long in Amsterdam or Wernigerode?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Amsterdam and Wernigerode. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Amsterdam than in Wernigerode. Usually, 2-7 days is a good amount of time for Amsterdam, and 1-3 days is enough time in Wernigerode.

Families should spend more time in Wernigerode than Amsterdam. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Wernigerode, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

Couples should spend more time in Amsterdam than Wernigerode. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Amsterdam that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Amsterdam than Wernigerode if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Amsterdam.


  • How many days in Amsterdam or Wernigerode? Ideal Length of Stay
    Amsterdam 2-7 
    Wernigerode 1-3

One day in Amsterdam or Wernigerode?

Amsterdam is a scenic city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Even though Wernigerode is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Wernigerode has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Amsterdam or Wernigerode?

Amsterdam is a laid-back big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Plenty of people spend a weekend in the area when traveling. If you enjoy all that's offered here, then a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Wernigerode is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Amsterdam or Wernigerode?

Amsterdam is a laid-back city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Wernigerode is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Amsterdam or Wernigerode?

Amsterdam is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

Wernigerode is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours from Amsterdam, The Best 2-Week Tours from Amsterdam, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Wernigerode or Amsterdam?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Amsterdam is €175, while the average daily cost in Wernigerode is €136. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Amsterdam and Wernigerode in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Amsterdam 102
    Wernigerode 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Amsterdam 204
    Wernigerode 148
Compare Hotels in Amsterdam and Wernigerode

Looking for a hotel in Amsterdam or Wernigerode? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Amsterdam


Hotels in Wernigerode


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Amsterdam Hotel Prices and Wernigerode Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Amsterdam 20
    Wernigerode 19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Amsterdam:


  • Ride on Tram
    3.20
  • Renting a Bike
    15
  • One Hour Canal Cruise
    10
  • Single Day Transit Pass
    2.60
  • Transit Pass to Amsterdam Airport
    3.40

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Amsterdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Amsterdam:

  • Train transfer From/To Zaandijk Zaanse Schans: $5.03
  • Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Amsterdam: $6.31
  • Airport Express Bus Transfer to/from City Center: $6.95
  • 1-Way Train Transfer to/from Haarlem: $7.38
  • Train Transfer From/To Zandvoort in Amsterdam: $8.02
  • Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Utrecht: $12
  • Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Leiden: $13
  • Travel Ticket for 1-3 Days With Airport Transfer: $19
  • Train Transfer Amsterdam from/to Rotterdam: $21
  • Train Transfer Schiphol Airport from/to Eindhoven: $26
  • Eindhoven: Train Transfer Eindhoven from/to Amsterdam: $26
  • From Bus Transfer to Flower Fields Keukenhof: $27

Is it cheaper to fly into Amsterdam or Wernigerode?

Prices for flights to both Wernigerode and Amsterdam change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Amsterdam 43
    Wernigerode 45
Typical Food Prices in Amsterdam

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Amsterdam:


  • Afternoon Tea
    6.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Amsterdam

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Amsterdam.

  • Food Tour Amsterdam (Tip Based): $5.45
  • Amsterdam Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood : $8.18
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Pijp Neighbourhood: $13
  • Self-Guided Food Tour in De Jordaan Neighbourhood: $13
  • Self-Guided Food Tour of Amsterdam's De Jordaan District: $14
  • Exclusive Burger Dinner Cruise: $32
  • Pizza Cruise with Drinks: $40
  • Evening Canal Cruise with Pizza and Drinks: $42
  • Amsterdam Nightlife Ticket with A GOLD MENU Hard Rock Dinner: $43
  • Burger Dinner Cruise through the Amsterdam Canals: $43
  • Food Tour Jordaan District: $51
  • Food Tour Amsterdam's Jordaan District Self-Guided: $52

Typical Food Prices in Wernigerode

Some typical examples of dining costs in Wernigerode are as follows:


  • Dinner for Two
    22
  • Soda
    1.70

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Amsterdam 37
    Wernigerode 28
Typical Entertainment Prices in Amsterdam

Here are a few typical costs in Amsterdam for activities, ticket prices, and tours that come from previous visitors:


  • Two tickets to the Houseboat Museum
    6.00
  • Entry for two to the Anne Frank House
    17

Tours and Activities in Amsterdam

Here are a few actual costs in Amsterdam for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Golden Age Canals Walking Tour: $1.07
  • Free walking tour of haunted Amsterdam: $1.07
  • Red Light District Haunted History Night Tour: $1.70
  • Two-hour walking tour of Amsterdam: $2.61
  • City Exploration Game and Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Rude Bastards Tour of Amsterdam: $3.21
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Best of Amsterdam City Tour: $3.21
  • Amsterdam Spanish Tour 2 Hours: $3.26
  • Alternative tour Amsterdam (Tip-Based): $3.26
  • Free Walking Tour of Haunted Amsterdam: $3.27
  • Rude Bastards Tour of Amsterdam (CYHIT): $3.27

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Amsterdam 24
    Wernigerode 21

Sample the Local Flavors in Amsterdam

Also in Amsterdam, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Amsterdam Private Self-Guided Pub Crawl Pub Quiz: $21
  • Amsterdam Private Self Guided Pub Crawl: $22
  • Bar Crawl with Shots and Beer Maid Guide: $25
  • Central Pub Crawl and Nightlife Experience: $27
  • Red Light District Pub Crawl: $27
  • Distillery Tour & Tasting at Spirited Union: $27
  • Original Pub Crawl Party with VIP Entrance: $29
  • Chateau Urban Wine Tasting and optional bites: $32
  • Self-guided Red Light District Pub Crawl Mystery: $37
  • Leidseplein and Red Light Pub Crawl: 2 Night Pass: $37
  • Red Light District and Local Pub Tour: $39
  • Dutch Cheese and Wine Tasting: $42


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Amsterdam and Wernigerode, we can see that Amsterdam is more expensive. And not only is Wernigerode much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Wernigerode would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Wernigerode and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Amsterdam would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Amsterdam than you might in Wernigerode.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Amsterdam Expensive? and Is Wernigerode Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Amsterdam or Wernigerode?

Amsterdam has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Wernigerode. When comparing the sizes of Amsterdam and Wernigerode, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Amsterdam or Wernigerode?

Both destinations experience a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. And since both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Amsterdam or Wernigerode in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Amsterdam and Wernigerode. Most visitors come to Amsterdam for the city activities, the music scene, and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Furthermore, the summer months attract visitors to Wernigerode because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Amsterdam is generally cooler than Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 17°C (62°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wernigerode this time of the year. In Amsterdam, it's very sunny this time of the year. Amsterdam usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wernigerode during summer. Amsterdam gets 204 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 201 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Amsterdam gets 75 mm (3 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Amsterdam 17°C (62°F) 
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Wernigerode in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Amsterdam as well as Wernigerode. The autumn months attract visitors to Amsterdam because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Wernigerode this time of year.

Amsterdam is around the same temperature as Wernigerode in the autumn. The daily temperature in Amsterdam averages around 11°C (51°F) in October, and Wernigerode fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Amsterdam often gets less sunshine than Wernigerode. Amsterdam gets 99 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 120 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets more rain in October than Wernigerode. Amsterdam gets 72 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Amsterdam 11°C (51°F) 
    Wernigerode 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Wernigerode in the Winter?

Both Wernigerode and Amsterdam are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Amsterdam this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wernigerode for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Wernigerode. It's quite cold in Amsterdam in the winter. In the winter, Amsterdam is a little warmer than Wernigerode. Typically, the winter temperatures in Amsterdam in January average around 2°C (36°F), and Wernigerode averages at about 2°C (35°F).

Amsterdam usually receives less sunshine than Wernigerode during winter. Amsterdam gets 46 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Amsterdam usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Amsterdam gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Amsterdam 2°C (36°F) 
    Wernigerode 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Amsterdam or Wernigerode in the Spring?

Both Wernigerode and Amsterdam during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Amsterdam for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Wernigerode in the spring for the small town charm.

In April, Amsterdam is generally cooler than Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Amsterdam average around 8°C (46°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Amsterdam often gets more sunshine than Wernigerode. Amsterdam gets 166 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 150 hours of full sun.

Amsterdam usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Wernigerode. Amsterdam gets 52 mm (2 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Amsterdam 8°C (46°F) 
    Wernigerode 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Wernigerode and Amsterdam

Amsterdam Wernigerode
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (36°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 3°C (37°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 8°C (46°F) 52 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 68 mm (2.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 17°C (62°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 14°C (57°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in)
Oct 11°C (51°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 81 mm (3.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 3°C (38°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)