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

Should you visit Geneva 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 Geneva 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.

Geneva

Geneva is a diverse, international, and professional city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. 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.

Geneva and Wernigerode: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
Things to Consider
  • Less popular old town
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • 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 Geneva or Wernigerode?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Geneva. Although Geneva and Wernigerode are both popular with visitors, Geneva has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Geneva is more popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Wernigerode is known for its historical sights and small town charm. Wernigerode is more touristy than Geneva and is known for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle. Geneva is popular for its role as a global hub for the United Nations, the Red Cross, and the World Health Organization. It is also home to The Geneva Water Fountain (The Jet d'Eau).

How is Geneva different from Wernigerode?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Geneva
Wernigerode

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Geneva. Famous sights and landmarks include the spectacular Water Jet, St Pierre Cathedral, and the Palais des Nations. There are also impressive art and history museums in the city.

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 Geneva or Wernigerode? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Geneva
Wernigerode

Geneva 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, Geneva makes for a great culinary experience. The city has an amazing mix of traditional Swiss restaurants as well as diverse ethnic options. Traditional dishes include fondue and raclette, both of which involve the decadent Swiss cheese.

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 Geneva or Wernigerode Better for Nightlife?

Geneva
Wernigerode

Geneva 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 Geneva. During the day the city is all business, but at night the professionals, interns, students, and NGO workers all come together to enjoy a drink at a bar or dance at one of the city's diverse clubs.

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 Geneva or Wernigerode Better for its Old Town?

Geneva
Wernigerode

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

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.

Plenty of visitors enjoy exploring the old town in Geneva. The Old Town offers a number of charming streets where you can wander as well as historical buildings including St. Pierre Cathedral.


Is the Shopping Better in Geneva or Wernigerode?

Geneva
Wernigerode

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

Geneva is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Famous for its posh shops and luxury brands, this city is a popular shopping destination. From chic boutiques to deluxe toy stores, you'll find something for everyone. In particular, the city is known for its Swiss watches, Swiss Army knives, chocolate, and wine.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Geneva or Wernigerode Better for Families?

Geneva
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Wernigerode is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Geneva offers lots of family activities. This diverse city has a number of chocolate shops, toy stores, and parks where kids can play. They'll be impressed by the Water Jet and there are few places where you can swim in the lake when the weather is warm.

Is Geneva or Wernigerode Better for Couples?

Geneva
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a great destination for romance. Also, Geneva is still popular, but not quite as popular for its romantic activities.

Couples visit Wernigerode frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This fairytale town is something special with many beautiful buildings, a castle, and great restaurants that make for a romantic weekend.

Geneva makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Wandering Old Town, sampling Swiss chocolate, and enjoying one of the many ethnic restaurants around town all make for great date activities. Fondue in a traditional restaurant is also a not to be missed experience.


Is Geneva or Wernigerode Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Geneva
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a good destination for backpackers. However, Geneva is a city with minimal options for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of backpackers 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.

Geneva is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. The city is often overlooked by backpackers as it is pretty expensive. Many hotels cater to the business traveler crowd, but there are a few hostels to choose from.

Is Geneva or Wernigerode Better for Students?

Geneva
Wernigerode

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

Geneva is very popular with students. The University of Geneva attracts many international students and the city is quite diverse. It feels like a mixing bowl of cultures, so students will feel very welcomed and comfortable here.

Wernigerode is not popular with students.

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

Geneva
Wernigerode

Geneva 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.

Geneva has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. The very comprehensive system includes trams, buses, and boats.

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 Geneva or Wernigerode a more walkable city?

Geneva
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is an unbeatable place for its walkability. Also, Geneva 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.

Geneva is a very walkable city. Most areas where visitors spend their time can be easily explored on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Wernigerode or Geneva?

How long in Geneva or Wernigerode?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Geneva and Wernigerode. You can spend similar amounts of time exploring each one. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Families should spend more time in Wernigerode than Geneva. 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 Geneva. 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 Wernigerode than Geneva 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 Wernigerode.


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

One day in Geneva or Wernigerode?

Geneva is a international city where you can fill many days. 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 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 Geneva or Wernigerode?

Geneva is a classy big city where you can fill many days. 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 Geneva or Wernigerode?

The professional city of Geneva offers shopping and museums. 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 Geneva or Wernigerode?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Geneva. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people visit for the shopping. 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 Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Switzerland, The Best Adventure Tours to Switzerland, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Wernigerode or Geneva?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Geneva is $210, 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 Geneva and Wernigerode in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Geneva $145
    Wernigerode $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Geneva $290
    Wernigerode $158
Compare Hotels in Geneva and Wernigerode

Looking for a hotel in Geneva 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 Geneva


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: Geneva Hotel Prices and Wernigerode Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Geneva $9.38
    Wernigerode $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Geneva

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Geneva:

  • Geneva Int Airport (GVA) to La Clusaz - Arrival Private Transfer: $49
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Lausanne - Arrival Private Transfer: $53
  • Geneva to Geneva Airport (GVA)- Departure Private Transfer: $55
  • One-way Private Transfer From/To Geneva Airport: $71
  • VIP Transfer: $72
  • Arrival Transfer from Geneva Airport GVA to Geneva by Sedan: $73
  • Geneva Airport (GVA) to Verbier - Arrival Private Transfer: $76
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Hotels to Geneva Airport: $86
  • Private Transfer from Geneva Airport to Geneva Hotels : $86
  • Geneva Airport Transfers : Geneva City to Geneva Airport GVA in Business Car: $87
  • Geneva Departure Private Transfers from Geneva City to Geneva Airport GVA: $87
  • Geneva Passenger Transfer to Chamonix Mont Blanc: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Geneva or Wernigerode?

Prices for flights to both Wernigerode and Geneva 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
    Geneva $52
    Wernigerode $49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Geneva

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

  • Geneva City Tour with Cooking Class: $144
  • City Tour and Fondue Cooking Class: $185
  • Food tour in Geneva: $2,406

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.
    Geneva $30
    Wernigerode $30

Tours and Activities in Geneva

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Geneva Lakeside Stroll: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • From Brunswick Monument to the Botanical Garden: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Old Town Self-Guided Audio Tour: $6.99
  • Geneva Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $8.02
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Many Faces of Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • International District Self-Guided City Sightseeing: $15
  • Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $15
  • Geneva (International District) City Sights Self-Guided Tour: $16

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Geneva $22
    Wernigerode $23


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


Which is Bigger, Geneva or Wernigerode?

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

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

Geneva is a little warmer than Wernigerode in the summer. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 22°C (71°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. In Geneva, it's very sunny this time of the year. Geneva usually receives more sunshine than Wernigerode during summer. Geneva gets 285 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 201 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Geneva usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Geneva gets 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Geneva 22°C (71°F) 
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Wernigerode in the Autumn?

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

In the autumn, Geneva is a little warmer than Wernigerode. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Geneva in October average around 14°C (56°F), and Wernigerode averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Geneva often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wernigerode. Geneva gets 127 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 120 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets more rain in October than Wernigerode. Geneva gets 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Geneva 14°C (56°F) 
    Wernigerode 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Wernigerode in the Winter?

Both Wernigerode and Geneva are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Geneva 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. Geneva can be very cold during winter. In January, Geneva is generally much warmer than Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Geneva average around 4°C (39°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Geneva usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wernigerode during winter. Geneva gets 62 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Geneva usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Geneva gets 55 mm (2.1 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Geneva 4°C (39°F) 
    Wernigerode 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Geneva or Wernigerode in the Spring?

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

Geneva is a little warmer than Wernigerode in the spring. The daily temperature in Geneva averages around 11°C (53°F) in April, and Wernigerode fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Geneva often gets more sunshine than Wernigerode. Geneva gets 174 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 150 hours of full sun.

Geneva usually gets more rain in April than Wernigerode. Geneva gets 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Geneva 11°C (53°F) 
    Wernigerode 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Wernigerode and Geneva

Geneva Wernigerode
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 4°C (39°F) 55 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in) 2°C (36°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 8°C (47°F) 62 mm (2.4 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 11°C (53°F) 65 mm (2.6 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 15°C (60°F) 85 mm (3.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 75 mm (3 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 22°C (71°F) 61 mm (2.4 in) 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 21°C (70°F) 75 mm (3 in) 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 18°C (65°F) 75 mm (3 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in)
Oct 14°C (56°F) 78 mm (3.1 in) 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 8°C (46°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 4°C (40°F) 57 mm (2.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)