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

Should you visit Brussels 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 Brussels 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.

Brussels

Brussels is a authentic, colorful, and multicultural city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a fairytale-like, charming, and quaint town. This is also a fantastic small town with plenty of charm and local activities. It's also known for food and museums.

Brussels 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
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
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
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Brussels or Wernigerode?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Brussels. Although Brussels and Wernigerode are both popular with visitors, Brussels has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Brussels is more popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and big city activities, while Wernigerode is known for its historical sights and small town charm. Wernigerode is more touristy than Brussels and is known for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle. Brussels is popular for its beautiful architecture, grand squares, diverse population, and delicious waffles. It is also home to La Grand Place (Grote Markt).

La Grand Place (Grote Markt)
La Grand Place (Grote Markt)

How is Brussels different from Wernigerode?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Brussels
Wernigerode

Both Brussels and Wernigerode have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Brussels. Popular sights include Saint-Michel Cathedral, Place Royale, and the Belgian Royal Museum of Fine Arts. The city is filled with impressive architecture, fascinating art museums, and innovative science and technology museums.

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 Brussels or Wernigerode? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Brussels
Wernigerode

Brussels 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, Brussels makes for a great culinary experience. While the city is most known for its waffles and fries, the diversity of dishes and international restaurant selection continues to grow. There are Lebanese, Japanese, and Indian restaurants among others. Popular local dishes include moules-frites, waterzooi (a stew), and stoemp (made with mashed potatoes and vegetables).

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 Brussels or Wernigerode Better for Nightlife?

Brussels
Wernigerode

Brussels 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 Brussels. The city's nightlife is quieter and more mellow than some other major cities around Europe. That doesn't mean there aren't plenty of dance clubs and bars where you can hang out. Keep your wits about you after the sun goes down as some areas are a bit rougher than others.

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 Brussels or Wernigerode Better for its Old Town?

Brussels
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is renowned for its historic old town. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its old town.

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

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Brussels. The old town in the city center is where you'll find the greatest concentration of historic sights. The area is surrounded by tree-lined boulevards and is easy to explore.


Is the Shopping Better in Brussels or Wernigerode?

Brussels
Wernigerode

Brussels is very popular for shopping. However, Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Brussels is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Although it's famous for diamonds, the city also has many shopping streets where you can find designer brands, vintage shops, and other unique boutiques that are fun to explore.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Brussels or Wernigerode Better for Families?

Brussels
Wernigerode

Both Brussels and Wernigerode are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Brussels is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has a number of unique kid-friendly activities including a Mini-Europe Museum, a Comic Strip Museum, and Train World. The city is also a chocolate lover's dream with many factories and chocolate shops around town.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Wernigerode is very family-friendly. 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 Brussels or Wernigerode Better for Couples?

Brussels
Wernigerode

Brussels and Wernigerode both high quality destinations for a couple.

Couples visit Brussels frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. From beautiful buildings and museums to shopping, dining, and chocolate shops, there are plenty of romantic spots around town. There's a vibrant nightlife scene and many diverse restaurants that couples can enjoy exploring.

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 Brussels or Wernigerode Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Brussels
Wernigerode

Brussels 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 Brussels. The city has an active nightlife and a number of hostels that are great for backpackers, but do take note that some areas can get a bit rough at night, so make sure you understand where you are.

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 Brussels or Wernigerode Better for Students?

Brussels
Wernigerode

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

Brussels is very popular with students. The city has a number of universities that attract students from around the world. The multicultural setting is great for students of the world.

Wernigerode is not popular with students.

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

Brussels
Wernigerode

Brussels 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.

Brussels has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Transit options include train, tram, metro, bus, and waterbuses.

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 Brussels or Wernigerode a more walkable city?

Brussels
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is renowned for its walkability. Also, Brussels is still popular, but not quite as popular for its high level of walkability.

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

Brussels is a very walkable city. If you stay in the historical area, it's easy to walk around and many boulevards are being converted to pedestrian areas.

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

Should I spend more time in Wernigerode or Brussels?

How long in Brussels or Wernigerode?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Brussels and Wernigerode. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Brussels than in Wernigerode. Usually, 1-5 days is a good amount of time for Brussels, and 1-3 days is enough time in Wernigerode.

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

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


  • How many days in Brussels or Wernigerode? Ideal Length of Stay
    Brussels 1-5 
    Wernigerode 1-3

One day in Brussels or Wernigerode?

Brussels is a authentic city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the shopping. 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 is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Brussels or Wernigerode?

Brussels is a colorful 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 popular place that is full of things to see and experience. If you have a weekend, this town makes for a great vacation. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Wernigerode, a weekend is sufficent for most. Take your pick from the many activities offered here.


Five days in Brussels or Wernigerode?

Brussels is a cosmopolitan 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 popular choice for travelers. Five days 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. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Brussels or Wernigerode?

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

Wernigerode is a great place to explore. Visiting the old town is also a must. One week is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. This town offers something for everyone.


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 Brussels?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Brussels is €137, 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 Brussels and Wernigerode in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Brussels 73
    Wernigerode 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Brussels 146
    Wernigerode 148
Compare Hotels in Brussels and Wernigerode

Looking for a hotel in Brussels 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 Brussels


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: Brussels Hotel Prices and Wernigerode Hotel Prices.

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

Some typical examples of transportation costs in Brussels are as follows:


  • Subway Pass
    4.50
  • Atomium train ticket (2)
    8.00

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brussels

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brussels:

  • Brussels Airport: Transfer to/from Gent Sint Pieters Station: $11
  • Airport Transfer to/from Lille City Center: $16
  • Brussels to Brussels Airport (BRU) - Departure Private Transfer: $33
  • Brussels to Ostend Airport (OST) - Departure Private Transfer: $39
  • Private Transfer from Brussels City to Brussels Airport(BRU): $44
  • Private One-way from Brussels Transfer To Brussels Airport: $45
  • Transfer to Brussels National Airport: $58
  • Airport Arrivals Private Transfer to the City: $60
  • Arrival Private Transfer Brussels Train Station to Brussels by Luxury Car or Van: $68
  • VIP Transfer between City/ Airport and Ghent: $70
  • Airport transfers from Brussels to Zaventem Brussels airport by luxury car: $74
  • Brussels Zaventem Airport Private Transfer from/to Brussels: $75

Is it cheaper to fly into Brussels or Wernigerode?

Prices for flights to both Wernigerode and Brussels 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
    Brussels 38
    Wernigerode 45
Typical Food Prices in Brussels

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


  • Ice Cream & Macaroons
    4.60
  • Dessert (Turkish Delights)
    4.75
  • Cheese
    5.60
  • Olives and Snacks
    6.98
  • Waffle
    3.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brussels

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

  • Hard Rock Cafe with Set Menu for Lunch or Dinner: $28
  • Hard Rock Cafe Brussels with Set Lunch or Dinner : $29
  • City Center Guided Food Tour with Tastings: $61
  • Food Tour in Brussels - Do Eat Better Experience: $106
  • Brussels Walking Food Tour With Secret Food Tours: $130
  • Secret Food Tours Brussels: $137
  • Market Tour and Cooking Lesson with a Belgian Gourmet Meal in a Brussels Home: $160
  • Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals: $163

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.
    Brussels 23
    Wernigerode 28

Tours and Activities in Brussels

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Historical Walking Tour: The Story of Brussels - by Legends: $3.26
  • Free Tour of Brussels in Italian (with booking fee): $3.26
  • The Most Complete Tour Of Brussels: $3.26
  • BELvue Belgium History Museum Entry Ticket: $5.35
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Brussels' Secret Places and Untold Stories: $5.99
  • 600 Years of History and Heritage: A Self-Guided Walking Tour of Leuven: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.95
  • Museum Halle Gate Entry Ticket: $7.49
  • A Self-Guided Tour of From Medieval to Modern Times: $7.99

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Brussels 13
    Wernigerode 21
Typical Alcohol Prices in Brussels

Some typical examples of the costs for nightlife and alcohol in Brussels are as follows:


  • Bottle of Wine
    10
  • Beer
    6.00

Sample the Local Flavors in Brussels

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brussels:

  • Brussels Pub Crawl - Nightlife & Party Experience: $17
  • Pub Crawl and Nightlife Party Experience: $18


When comparing the travel costs between Brussels and Wernigerode, we can see that Brussels 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 Brussels Expensive? and Is Wernigerode Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Brussels or Wernigerode?

Brussels has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Wernigerode. When comparing the sizes of Brussels 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 Brussels 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 Brussels or Wernigerode in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Brussels and Wernigerode. Many travelers come to Brussels for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, many visitors come to Wernigerode in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Wernigerode in the summer. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 18°C (65°F) in July, and Wernigerode fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wernigerode this time of the year. Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Wernigerode during summer. Brussels gets 186 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 201 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Brussels usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Brussels 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
    Brussels 18°C (65°F) 
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Wernigerode in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Brussels as well as Wernigerode. Many visitors come to Brussels in the autumn for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Additionally, most visitors come to Wernigerode for the small town atmosphere during these months.

In the autumn, Brussels is around the same temperature as Wernigerode. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Brussels in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Wernigerode averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Brussels often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wernigerode. Brussels gets 114 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 120 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in October than Wernigerode. Brussels 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
    Brussels 12°C (54°F) 
    Wernigerode 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Wernigerode in the Winter?

Both Wernigerode and Brussels are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Brussels for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Wernigerode because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Wernigerode can be very cold. Brussels can be very cold during winter. In January, Brussels is generally much warmer than Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Brussels average around 3°C (38°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Brussels usually receives less sunshine than Wernigerode during winter. Brussels gets 49 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Brussels usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Brussels gets 67 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
    Brussels 3°C (38°F) 
    Wernigerode 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Brussels or Wernigerode in the Spring?

Both Wernigerode and Brussels during the spring are popular places to visit. The spring months attract visitors to Brussels because of the activities around the city. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Wernigerode this time of year.

Brussels is around the same temperature as Wernigerode in the spring. The daily temperature in Brussels averages around 10°C (49°F) in April, and Wernigerode fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Brussels often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wernigerode. Brussels gets 147 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 150 hours of full sun.

Brussels usually gets more rain in April than Wernigerode. Brussels gets 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Brussels 10°C (49°F) 
    Wernigerode 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Wernigerode and Brussels

Brussels Wernigerode
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (38°F) 67 mm (2.6 in) 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 4°C (39°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 10°C (49°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 14°C (57°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 18°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in)
Oct 12°C (54°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 76 mm (3 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 76 mm (3 in) 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)