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

Should you visit Bruges or Wernigerode?

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

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Bruges and Wernigerode. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Bruges

Bruges is a beautiful, historic, and charming city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a fairytale-like, charming, and quaint town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Bruges 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
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
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 Bruges or Wernigerode?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Bruges than Wernigerode, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Bruges is better known for its food, nightlife, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Wernigerode is more popular for its small town charm. Bruges is more touristy than Wernigerode and is popular for its scenic old town, charming streets, local chocolate, and unique Christmas market. Also, Bruges is famous for Bruges' Markt (The Main Square). Wernigerode is well known for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle.

How is Bruges different from Wernigerode?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Bruges
Wernigerode

You'll find a number of high quality museums and attractions in both Wernigerode and Bruges.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Bruges. The city is filled with charming hidden corners as well as notable landmarks. The main square is Bruges' Markt which is where you'll find the the Belfry Tower. Other must-see sights include the Historium, Groeninge Museum, the Town Hall, and Brugse Vrije Museum.

Wernigerode offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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 Bruges or Wernigerode? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Bruges
Wernigerode

Bruges is a well-known place for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Wernigerode is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

With its innovative style combined with traditional elements, Bruges makes for a great culinary experience. From its world class breweries to its famous chocolate shops, there is plenty to eat and drink around town. In the old town prices can be a bit high, but the dishes and atmosphere are great. Popular local dishes include Belgian waffles, fries, mussels, and beef stew.

Wernigerode has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. 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 Bruges or Wernigerode Better for Nightlife?

Bruges
Wernigerode

Bruges 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 Bruges. It's famous for its beer and breweries, so you'll find a number of places to gather in the evening. There is a lack of nightclubs, so if dancing and partying hard is your style, then this may not be your place. The vibes are generally chill and relaxed at night. Most places are concentrated around old town or near Kuipersstraat or Zilverstraat.

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 Bruges or Wernigerode Better for its Old Town?

Bruges
Wernigerode

Visitors enjoy the first-rate old town areas in both Bruges and Wernigerode.

Bruges has a world-famous historical area. The old town is the main attraction, with its quaint cobblestone streets and beautiful brick architecture.

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.


Is the Shopping Better in Bruges or Wernigerode?

Bruges
Wernigerode

Bruges is very good for shopping. However, Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Bruges is a great destination for shopping. The city offers plenty of shopping, whether you're looking for souvenirs, trendy European brands, or local items. It's more geared towards tourists than locals, and you want find the same diversity that you get in some of the larger nearby cities, but you'll find unique lace items and other local goods in the old town. The streets around Markt Square, Steenstraat, Geld Monstraat, and Jakobstraat are the main shopping areas.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Bruges or Wernigerode Better for Families?

Bruges
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is great for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Bruges is not as popular, but is still a nice city for its family-friendly activities.

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.

Bruges is a family-friendly place to visit. Kids will enjoy sampling the unique chocolate around town, eating their fill of waffles, and getting their energy out in the park or at a local playground. There are also canal boat tours and horse drawn carriage rides that are fun for the whole family.

Is Bruges or Wernigerode Better for Couples?

Bruges
Wernigerode

Bruges and Wernigerode both high quality destinations for a couple.

Bruges is a great city if you're traveling as a couple. This romantic city has amazing restaurants, charming streets, and impressive architecture. Couples will enjoy exploring the canals by boat or taking a horse drawn carriage ride through the old town. There are also a number of cute bed and breakfasts where you can stay.

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.


Is Bruges or Wernigerode Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Bruges
Wernigerode

Bruges is a well-known place for backpackers. Also, Wernigerode is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Backpackers come from all over to visit Bruges. There are a few good hostels around town. The city sees its share of tourists, but many arrive as part of tours or river boat cruises. If you stay in a hostel, you shouldn't have trouble meeting other young travelers though. There are also plenty of well known breweries where you can gather with friends.

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

Bruges
Wernigerode

Bruges and Wernigerode both offer notable public transit to get you around.

While Bruges offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. There is a bus system that connects the train station to the old town. Otherwise, the city is best explored on foot.

Wernigerode has a few 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 Bruges or Wernigerode a more walkable city?

Bruges
Wernigerode

Bruges and Wernigerode are first-rate when it comes to walkability.

Bruges is a very easy city to get around on foot. The train station is a short walk from the old town but the city is very walkable and best explored on foot.

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


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

Should I spend more time in Wernigerode or Bruges?

How long in Bruges or Wernigerode?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Bruges and Wernigerode. In our opinion, Bruges has more to see and do, so we recommend that you spend more time in Bruges 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 Bruges. 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 Bruges than Wernigerode. You'll find plenty of romantic sights and fun activities in Bruges that are great for a weekend getaway or a longer couple's trip.

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


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

One day in Bruges or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the beautiful city of Bruges. 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.

Wernigerode might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.

A weekend in Bruges or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the charming destination of Bruges. 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 great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Bruges or Wernigerode?

The charming city of Bruges 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wernigerode. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.


A week in Bruges or Wernigerode?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Bruges. 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 it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Cultural Tours in Belgium, The Best Luxury Tours to Belgium, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Wernigerode or Bruges?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Bruges is €123, 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 Bruges and Wernigerode in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Bruges 59
    Wernigerode 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Bruges 118
    Wernigerode 148
Compare Hotels in Bruges and Wernigerode

Looking for a hotel in Bruges 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 Bruges


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: Bruges Hotel Prices and Wernigerode Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Bruges 17
    Wernigerode 19
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Bruges

Here are some examples of typical transportation prices from actual travelers in Bruges:


  • Five Day Bus Pass
    15
  • Bike Rental for Day
    8.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Bruges

Also for Bruges, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Bruges hotel to Ostend Airport (OST) - Departure Private Transfer: $32
  • Bruges to Ostend Bruges Airport(OST) - Departure Private Transfer: $32
  • Private Transfer from Zeebrugge Cruise Port to Bruges hotels : $33
  • Private Transfer from Bruges City Hotels to Zeebrugge Cruise Port: $33
  • PrivateTransfer from Zeebrugge Port to Ostend Bruges Airport(OST): $86
  • Brugge Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer to Brugge: $111
  • Private Transfer from Zeebrugge Cruise Port to Brussels hotels : $143
  • Private Transfer from Bruges to Brussels By Business car: $152
  • Private Transfer from ZeeBrugge or Bruges to Antwerp By Luxury car: $163
  • Transfer Ghent <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 to 8 Places): $175
  • Transfer Bruges <-> Schipol Airport Amsterdam (1 - 8 Places): $229
  • Brussels airport transfer (BRU) <-> from or to Bruges (3 pax sedan): $261

Is it cheaper to fly into Bruges or Wernigerode?

Prices for flights to both Wernigerode and Bruges 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
    Bruges 52
    Wernigerode 45
Typical Food Prices in Bruges

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Bruges:


  • Cup of Tea
    2.00
  • Sandwich for Lunch
    3.25

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Bruges

For Bruges, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • The 10 Tastings of Bruges With Locals: Private Food Tour : $133
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $142

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.
    Bruges 15
    Wernigerode 28
Typical Entertainment Prices in Bruges

For Bruges, here are some examples of average entertainment and activity prices from previous travelers:


  • Groeninge Museum Entrance
    8.00

Tours and Activities in Bruges

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Bruges.

  • Self-Guided City Game and Audio Tour App: $2.67
  • Unforgettable Sightseeings, History and Tasting.: $3.21
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Bruges Guided Walking Tour: Stories, Mysteries and People: $3.21
  • Storytelling Tour Bruges | First Day Must | History & Tips: $3.27
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Bruges: $3.27
  • Gastronomic Tour: A Taste of Bruges: $3.27
  • Walking Tour Exciting Stories, Mysteries, People: $3.28
  • Bruges city tour: audio guide in your smartphone: $5.35
  • Self Guided City Audio Tour in Bruges: $5.46
  • Medieval A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Bruges 11
    Wernigerode 21

Sample the Local Flavors in Bruges

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Bruges:

  • Bruges Pub Trail: Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Bourgogne des Flandres Brewery and Distillery Visit: $17
  • Private: Discover Bruges beers & brewery with chocolate pairing by a young local: $191
  • Beer walking tour with visit Brewery Bourgogne de Flandres: $642


When comparing the travel costs between Bruges and Wernigerode, we can see that Wernigerode is more expensive. However, the two cities are actually relatively comparable in price, as the difference is somewhat minimal. Generally, this means that you could travel with generally the same travel style and level of luxury in each place. Since both cities are in Europe, it's no surprise that their costs are relatively close, as many destinations here have somewhat similar travel prices overall.

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


Which is Bigger, Bruges or Wernigerode?

Bruges has a larger population, and is about 3 times larger than the population of Wernigerode. When comparing the sizes of Bruges 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 Bruges or Wernigerode?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Bruges or Wernigerode in the Summer?

Both Wernigerode and Bruges during the summer are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Bruges for the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Wernigerode in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Bruges is around the same temperature as Wernigerode. Typically, the summer temperatures in Bruges in July average around 17°C (63°F), and Wernigerode averages at about 19°C (65°F).

In Wernigerode, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Bruges. In the summer, Bruges often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wernigerode. Bruges gets 202 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 201 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets more rain in July than Wernigerode. Bruges gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Bruges 17°C (63°F) 
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Bruges or Wernigerode in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Bruges and Wernigerode. Many visitors come to Bruges in the autumn for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, most visitors come to Wernigerode for the small town atmosphere during these months.

In October, Bruges is generally around the same temperature as Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Bruges average around 12°C (54°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Bruges usually receives less sunshine than Wernigerode during autumn. Bruges gets 105 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Bruges usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Bruges gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Bruges 12°C (54°F) 
    Wernigerode 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Bruges or Wernigerode in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Bruges as well as Wernigerode. Most visitors come to Bruges for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Additionally, the winter months attract visitors to Wernigerode because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Wernigerode can be very cold. Bruges can be very cold during winter. Bruges is much warmer than Wernigerode in the winter. The daily temperature in Bruges averages around 3°C (38°F) in January, and Wernigerode fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Bruges often gets less sunshine than Wernigerode. Bruges gets 47 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 60 hours of full sun.

Bruges usually gets more rain in January than Wernigerode. Bruges gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Bruges 3°C (38°F) 
    Wernigerode 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Bruges or Wernigerode in the Spring?

Both Wernigerode and Bruges are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The spring months attract visitors to Bruges because of the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Wernigerode this time of year.

In the spring, Bruges is around the same temperature as Wernigerode. Typically, the spring temperatures in Bruges in April average around 8°C (47°F), and Wernigerode averages at about 9°C (48°F).

Bruges usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wernigerode during spring. Bruges gets 158 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Bruges usually receives less rain than Wernigerode. Bruges gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Bruges 8°C (47°F) 
    Wernigerode 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Wernigerode and Bruges

Bruges Wernigerode
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 3°C (38°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 2°C (36°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (42°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 8°C (47°F) 45 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 12°C (54°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 15°C (59°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 17°C (63°F) 66 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 18°C (64°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 75 mm (2.9 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 5°C (40°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)