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

Should you visit Ghent 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 Ghent 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.

Ghent

Ghent is a high energy, cultural, and historic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. 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.

Ghent 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
  • 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
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Ghent or Wernigerode?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Ghent. Although Ghent and Wernigerode are both popular with visitors, Ghent has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Ghent is more popular for its food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Wernigerode is known for its historical sights and small town charm. Wernigerode is more touristy than Ghent and is known for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle. Ghent is popular for its medieval buildings, large squares, and weekly markets It is also home to The Fortress of Gravensteen.

How is Ghent different from Wernigerode?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Ghent
Wernigerode

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

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Ghent. The city has many different sights that are concentrated in a compact area. Make sure you check out the Cathedral of St. Bavo, The Fortress of Gravensteen, and The Belfry. The audio tour at Gravensteen really brings the history to life and makes for an enjoyable activity.

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 Ghent or Wernigerode? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Ghent
Wernigerode

Ghent 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, Ghent makes for a great culinary experience. The food scene is diverse and international, but there are also many local dishes and flavors that you should try. Pas de Rouge is a local cheese and mastel is a local bread. Ganda ham is also a popular meat that is dried and salted. In additional to traditional restaurants, you'll find almost any international cuisine that you could want.

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 Ghent or Wernigerode Better for Nightlife?

Ghent
Wernigerode

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

Ghent is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. With its young student population, you'll find plenty of lively bars and clubs around town. There are many places where you can party or dance into the early hours of the morning and some of the best places are around Oude Beestenmarkt, De Overpoort, and De Vlasmarkt. There's also the famous Ghent Festival every July.

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 Ghent or Wernigerode Better for its Old Town?

Ghent
Wernigerode

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

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.

Many visitors explore the old town while visiting Ghent. The medieval old town follows along the canal and offers great architecture and a unique atmosphere.


Is the Shopping Better in Ghent or Wernigerode?

Ghent
Wernigerode

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

Ghent is an extremely popular place for shoppers. The city has the largest pedestrian shopping area in Belgium, making it a great place to explore on foot. The city has several different shopping areas which each have their own style and personality. You'll find everything from major European brands to local boutiques and street markets.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Ghent or Wernigerode Better for Families?

Ghent
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a well-known place for its family-friendly activities. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit 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.

Ghent is a family-friendly city. The city has a fun atmosphere with kid-friendly restaurants and a number of attractions that appeal to all ages. Kids and adults alike will enjoy exploring Gravensteen, which is the "Castle of Counts". You can also take a boat tour, rent bikes, or head to one of the town's playgrounds so the kids can burn off some energy.

Is Ghent or Wernigerode Better for Couples?

Ghent
Wernigerode

Ghent and Wernigerode both high quality destinations for a couple.

Ghent is a very popular place to visit for couples. It makes a great weekend getaway with a diverse restaurant scene, nice hotels, and plenty of historic attractions that you can explore.

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


Is Ghent or Wernigerode Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Ghent
Wernigerode

Both Ghent and Wernigerode are good destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Ghent. The city has a number of hostels to choose from as well as a young vibe with a large student population. Many people overlook Ghent, but it feels more genuine than nearby Bruges, which attracts the larger tourist crowds.

Plenty of budget travelers 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 Ghent or Wernigerode Better for Students?

Ghent
Wernigerode

Ghent is very popular for students. However, Wernigerode is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Ghent. The city is very popular with international students so it has a young and energetic vibe with plenty to do throughout the year.

Wernigerode is not popular with students.

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

Ghent
Wernigerode

Ghent 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.

Ghent has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. Buses and trams travel to most parts of the city and are convenient and efficient.

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 Ghent or Wernigerode a more walkable city?

Ghent
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a world-class destination for its walkability. Also, Ghent is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its high level of walkability.

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

Ghent is a very walkable city. The area's with the most tourist attractions are generally walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Wernigerode or Ghent?

How long in Ghent or Wernigerode?

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

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


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

One day in Ghent or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the cultural city of Ghent. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 Ghent or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Ghent. 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 Ghent or Wernigerode?

The under-rated city of Ghent 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 Ghent or Wernigerode?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Ghent. 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 nightlife. 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 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 Ghent?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Ghent is €118, 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 Ghent and Wernigerode in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Ghent 72
    Wernigerode 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Ghent 144
    Wernigerode 148
Compare Hotels in Ghent and Wernigerode

Looking for a hotel in Ghent 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 Ghent


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: Ghent Hotel Prices and Wernigerode Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Ghent 19
    Wernigerode 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Ghent

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Ghent:

  • Ostend Bruges Airport(OST) to Bruges- Round-Trip Private Transfer: $63
  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Business Car: $147
  • Departure Private Transfer from Ghent City to Brussels Airport by Luxury Van: $166
  • Ghent <-> Amsterdam Shuttle Transfer (1 to 8 Seats): $229
  • Ostend <-> Luxembourg transfer (1 to 8 places): $233

Is it cheaper to fly into Ghent or Wernigerode?

Prices for flights to both Wernigerode and Ghent 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
    Ghent 35
    Wernigerode 45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Ghent

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

  • Walking food tour: Introduction to Ghent through food: $102
  • Small-Group Food Tour in Ghent by Bike: $158

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.
    Ghent 8.64
    Wernigerode 28

Tours and Activities in Ghent

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Gastronomic Walking Tour of Gent - Tasters included: $3.26
  • Historical Walking Tour: Legends of Gent: $3.26
  • Ghent city tour: audio guide in your smartphone: $5.35
  • Self Guided City Audio Tour in Ghent: $5.45
  • Hidden A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Ghent Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $7.08
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Walking Tour: $8.02
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $8.02
  • Medieval Center Guided Boat Tour: $11
  • 40-Minute Historical Boat Tour of City Center: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Ghent 18
    Wernigerode 21

Sample the Local Flavors in Ghent

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Ghent:

  • Ghent Pub Trail : Pub crawl with interactive online game: $12
  • Private Ghent Beer & Brewery Tour by a young local: $245


When comparing the travel costs between Ghent 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 Ghent Expensive? and Is Wernigerode Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Ghent or Wernigerode?

Ghent has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Wernigerode. When comparing the sizes of Ghent 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 Ghent 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 Ghent or Wernigerode in the Summer?

Both Wernigerode and Ghent are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Ghent for the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Wernigerode in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Ghent is around the same temperature as Wernigerode in the summer. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 17°C (63°F) in July, 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 Ghent. Ghent usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Wernigerode during summer. Ghent gets 202 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 201 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Ghent usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Ghent gets 66 mm (2.6 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


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

Should I visit Ghent or Wernigerode in the Autumn?

Both Wernigerode and Ghent during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Ghent in the autumn for 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, Ghent is around the same temperature as Wernigerode. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Ghent in October average around 12°C (54°F), and Wernigerode averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Ghent often gets less sunshine than Wernigerode. Ghent gets 105 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 120 hours of full sun.

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

Should I visit Ghent or Wernigerode in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Ghent and Wernigerode. Most visitors come to Ghent 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. Ghent can be very cold during winter. In January, Ghent is generally much warmer than Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Ghent average around 3°C (38°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Ghent usually receives less sunshine than Wernigerode during winter. Ghent gets 47 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Ghent usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Ghent gets 59 mm (2.3 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Ghent or Wernigerode in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Ghent as well as Wernigerode. The spring months attract visitors to Ghent because of the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Wernigerode this time of year.

Ghent is around the same temperature as Wernigerode in the spring. The daily temperature in Ghent averages around 8°C (47°F) in April, and Wernigerode fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Ghent often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wernigerode. Ghent gets 158 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 150 hours of full sun.

Ghent usually gets less rain in April than Wernigerode. Ghent gets 45 mm (1.8 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Wernigerode and Ghent

Ghent 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)