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

Should you visit Basel or Wernigerode?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Basel 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.

Basel

Basel is a beautiful, vibrant, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, 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.

Basel and Wernigerode: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Basel or Wernigerode?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Basel. Although Basel and Wernigerode are popular destinations, Basel has more sights and attractions for tourists. Basel is very popular for its nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Wernigerode attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. Wernigerode is more touristy than Basel and is known for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle. Basel is famous for its many museums and its nice old town. It is also well known for The Kunstmuseum Basel.

How is Basel different from Wernigerode?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Basel
Wernigerode

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

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Basel can be an interesting and educational experience. The city is filled with history. Head to Minster Hill to see the beautiful historic church and Münsterplatz. There are also several unique museums around town including Jean Tinguely Museum, the Paper Mill Museum, the Historical Museum, and the Museum of Art.

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 Basel or Wernigerode? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Basel
Wernigerode

Foodies will find both Basel and Wernigerode both to be nice destinations.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Basel. Food around town can be expensive, but there are some outdoor markets where you can buy fruit and a bratwurst for a reasonable price. The city is known for its breads, soups, and pastries, which are all delicious.

Wernigerode is becoming an appealing option for foodies. 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.

Is Basel or Wernigerode Better for Nightlife?

Basel
Wernigerode

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

There's a variety of activities in the evening in Basel. The city's nightlife comes alive as the sun sets. There are bars, pubs, and dance clubs that stay active until the early morning hours.

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 Basel or Wernigerode Better for its Old Town?

Basel
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a world-class destination for its old town. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its historic old town charm.

The historic old town of Wernigerode is revered around the world. If you're looking for an almost flawless old town with charm and few imperfections, then this is your place.

Basel is an extremely popular place to visit the historic old town area. The charming old town is fun to explore on foot with its quaint streets and meandering alleys. The beautiful architecture and ornate fountains give the area a unique personality. On the hottest days you may even see locals swimming in some of the fountains.


Is the Shopping Better in Basel or Wernigerode?

Basel
Wernigerode

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

Basel is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The old town is filled with shops that you can wander through as you explore. Popular shopping streets include Freie Strasse and the area around Marktplatz, where you'll find boutique shops and interesting trinkets. You can also head to the city's oldest department store - Manor.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Basel or Wernigerode Better for Families?

Basel
Wernigerode

Basel and Wernigerode are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Basel is a very kid-friendly city. The city has an impressive zoo, a really unique toy museum, as well as Aquabasilea with its pools and slides. It's also compact enough that little legs can explore and enjoy everything that it has to offer. If the weather's warm, head for the river to cool off.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Wernigerode. 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.

Is Basel or Wernigerode Better for Couples?

Basel
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is notable for its romantic activities. Also, Basel is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for couples.

Wernigerode is a very popular place to visit for couples. This fairytale town is something special with many beautiful buildings, a castle, and great restaurants that make for a romantic weekend.

Basel is a good city for couples to visit. Nice restaurants, interesting museums, and several great spas make this a nice place for a romantic trip.


Is Basel or Wernigerode Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Basel
Wernigerode

Both Basel and Wernigerode are nice destinations for backpackers.

It's common for backpackers to visit Basel. There are a few hostels and a really useful City Pass that make this city an option for backpackers and budget travelers. It's also a major transit center so accessibility is convenient. If you're traveling around Europe by train, you'll likely pass through Basel at some point.

Wernigerode is a good city to visit for backpackers. 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 Basel or Wernigerode Better for Students?

Basel
Wernigerode

Basel is a well-known place for students. However, Wernigerode is not popular with students.

Basel is very popular with students. The University of Basel brings in international students from around the world. The city makes a nice base for exploring Europe, but it's also a bit expensive which can be challenging on a student income.

Wernigerode is not popular with students.

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

Basel
Wernigerode

Basel is a well-known place 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.

Visitors to Basel can move around easily with public transportation. Trams and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Basel or Wernigerode a more walkable city?

Basel
Wernigerode

Basel and Wernigerode both are terrific when exploring on foot.

It is easy to get around Basel on foot. The old town and most of the major attractions are easily accessible on foot.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Wernigerode. You can easily explore the town and the nearby castle on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Wernigerode or Basel?

How long in Basel or Wernigerode?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Basel and Wernigerode. In our opinion, Basel has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Basel than Wernigerode. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Basel 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 Basel.


  • How many days in Basel or Wernigerode? Ideal Length of Stay
    Basel 1-3 
    Wernigerode 1-3

One day in Basel or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the easily accessible city of Basel. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. 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. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Because of this, one day is usually enough time for a trip here.

A weekend in Basel or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the easily accessible destination of Basel. 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wernigerode. For many, it makes a great getaway for a weekend. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This would be the perfect place to spend a weekend, as it has just the right amount of activities. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision.


Five days in Basel or Wernigerode?

The museum-filled city of Basel offers shopping and museums. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Wernigerode is a fun place to experience. Wernigerode is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything.

A week in Basel or Wernigerode?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Basel. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Wernigerode is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Switzerland, The Best Bicycle Tours in Switzerland, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Wernigerode or Basel?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Basel is $236, while the average daily cost in Wernigerode is $145. 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 Basel and Wernigerode in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Basel $143
    Wernigerode $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Basel $286
    Wernigerode $158
Compare Hotels in Basel and Wernigerode

Looking for a hotel in Basel 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 Basel


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: Basel Hotel Prices and Wernigerode Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Basel $45
    Wernigerode $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Basel

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Basel:

  • ONE WAY: Basel Train Station (ZDH) to / from Basel transfer: $88
  • Basel Airport Transfer: Basel to EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) in Business Car: $108
  • Arrival Private Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Van: $119
  • Basel Airport Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Van: $119
  • Basel Airport Transfer: EuroAirport (BSL MLH EAP) to Basel in Luxury Car: $157
  • Private direct transfer from Basel to Lucerne with a local driver: $177
  • Private One-way Transfer From Basel to Zurich, English Speaking Driver: $186
  • Private Direct Transfer from Basel to Zurich: $205
  • Private Transfer From Basel To Bern With a 2 Hour Stop in Olten: $224
  • Private transfer from Basel to Strasbourg with a local driver: $233
  • Private Transfer from Basel to Zurich with 3h Sightseeing Stops: $251
  • Private Transfer: Basel Airport BSL to Zurich in Luxury Van: $261

Is it cheaper to fly into Basel or Wernigerode?

Prices for flights to both Wernigerode and Basel 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
    Basel $61
    Wernigerode $49

Typical Food Prices in Wernigerode

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


  • Dinner for Two
    $24
  • Soda
    $1.82

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Basel $37
    Wernigerode $30

Tours and Activities in Basel

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Basel are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Basel Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $5.35
  • Basel's Portrait: Self-Guided Reading City Tour: $5.47
  • Basel's Portrait Self Guided Audio City Tour: $5.60
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Hidden Treasures Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour: $8.99
  • The Best of Basel’s Hidden Treasures: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.99
  • Uncover Basel's Charms: In-App Audio Tour of Cultural Gems: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Basel's Portrait: Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Old Town Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Basel (Kleinbasel) Scavenger Hunt and Self-Guided Tour: $15

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Basel $33
    Wernigerode $23

Sample the Local Flavors in Basel

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

  • Pub Crawl Meet People and Hidden Bars and Clubs: $33
  • Pinot Noir & Pinot Wine Tour to Baden-Württemberg: $279
  • Fantastic, full day, private wine tour to Alsace!: $285
  • Half Day Private Cheese & Wine Tasting in Vineyard in Basel: $289


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Basel and Wernigerode, we can see that Basel 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 Basel would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Basel 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 Basel Expensive? and Is Wernigerode Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Basel or Wernigerode?

Basel has a larger population, and is about 5 times larger than the population of Wernigerode. When comparing the sizes of Basel 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 Basel 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 Basel or Wernigerode in the Summer?

Both Wernigerode and Basel are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Basel for the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Wernigerode because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Basel is generally a little warmer than Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 21°C (70°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Wernigerode. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Basel. Basel usually receives more sunshine than Wernigerode during summer. Basel gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 201 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Basel usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Basel gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Basel 21°C (70°F) 
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Basel or Wernigerode in the Autumn?

Both Wernigerode and Basel during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Basel because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Wernigerode this time of year.

Basel is a little warmer than Wernigerode in the autumn. The daily temperature in Basel averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Wernigerode fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Basel often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wernigerode. Basel gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 120 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in October than Wernigerode. Basel gets 70 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
    Basel 13°C (56°F) 
    Wernigerode 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Basel or Wernigerode in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Basel and Wernigerode. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Basel this time of year. Furthermore, 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 Basel in the winter. In the winter, Basel is much warmer than Wernigerode. Typically, the winter temperatures in Basel in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Wernigerode averages at about 2°C (35°F).

Basel usually receives less sunshine than Wernigerode during winter. Basel gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Basel usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Basel gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Basel 3°C (37°F) 
    Wernigerode 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Basel or Wernigerode in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Basel as well as Wernigerode. Many travelers come to Basel for the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Wernigerode in the spring for the small town charm.

In April, Basel is generally a little warmer than Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Basel average around 12°C (53°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Basel often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wernigerode. Basel gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 150 hours of full sun.

Basel usually gets more rain in April than Wernigerode. Basel gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Basel 12°C (53°F) 
    Wernigerode 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Wernigerode and Basel

Basel Wernigerode
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)