A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Grindelwald vs. Wernigerode for Families, Couples, Backpackers, and Food

Should you visit Grindelwald or Wernigerode?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Grindelwald and Wernigerode can help you decide which place is right for you.

Grindelwald

Grindelwald is a beautiful, adventure-filled, and high adrenaline town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for skiing, nightlife, and food.

Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a quaint, cute, and quintessential town. Because it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors for a good reason. Other popular activities here include food and museums.

Grindelwald and Wernigerode: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Grindelwald or Wernigerode?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Grindelwald than Wernigerode, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Grindelwald is better known for its skiing, nightlife, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Wernigerode is more popular for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm. Grindelwald is well known for its stunning views, beautiful hikes, and breathtaking scenery. Also, Grindelwald is famous for the beautiful mountain scenery. Wernigerode is well known for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle.

the beautiful mountain scenery
The beautiful mountain scenery

How is Grindelwald different from Wernigerode?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Grindelwald or Wernigerode Better for Skiing?

Grindelwald
Wernigerode

Grindelwald is a well-known place for snow skiing. However, Wernigerode is not a skiing destination.

Grindelwald is an extremely popular place for snow skiing and other winter sports. Most of the skiing in the area is best for intermediate level skiers. There are also some places for beginners to ski, but not a lot of options for advanced skiers. The resort is relatively large with 30 lifts and some cross country skiing options as well.

Wernigerode is not a skiing destination.


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

Grindelwald
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is well known for its museums and landmarks. However, Grindelwald is not particularly known for its historical sights.

Many visitors head to Wernigerode specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Grindelwald. If you happen to have poor weather, there are very few indoor activities around town. The area is all about the views and the outdoor setting, so weather is key when visiting.

Is the Food Better in Grindelwald or Wernigerode? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Grindelwald
Wernigerode

Foodies will find both Grindelwald and Wernigerode both to be notable destinations.

There are many up and coming restaurants in the Grindelwald area. You'll find a casual pizza joint, a cafe, fine dining, and a handful of other restaurants in town.

There are plenty of up and coming restaurants around Wernigerode. 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 Grindelwald or Wernigerode Better for Nightlife?

Grindelwald
Wernigerode

Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald. You'll find the most bars of any of the Jungfrau ski resorts in town. Most are attached to a hotel and offer a nice place to enjoy a drink in a laid back setting.

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 Grindelwald or Wernigerode Better for its Old Town?

Grindelwald
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a world-class destination for its historic old town charm. However, Grindelwald does not have a historic 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.

Grindelwald does not have a historic old town.

Is Grindelwald or Wernigerode Better for Hiking?

Grindelwald
Wernigerode

Grindelwald is very popular for the nearby hiking options. However, Wernigerode is not a hiking destination.

Many people visit Grindelwald specifically for its hiking. Hiking in the area offers spectacular views of the Bernese Alps including Wetterhorn, Eiger, Jungfrau, and Breithorn. There are trails that cater to all levels and hiking is the best way to explore the countryside.

Wernigerode is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Grindelwald or Wernigerode?

Grindelwald
Wernigerode

Grindelwald is a moderate town for shopping. However, Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Grindelwald is a good destination for shopping. There are places to pick up sporting equipment that you may have forgotten. Many shops are seasonal and the turnover is frequent as the tourist season ebbs and flows.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Grindelwald or Wernigerode Better for Families?

Grindelwald
Wernigerode

You'll find very good kid-friendly activities in either Grindelwald or Wernigerode.

Grindelwald is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. The area is filled with outdoor adventures like hiking, ziplining, and cog railways. There are hikes for every age and skill level and older kids will enjoy the ropes courses and other outdoor activities.

Wernigerode is a very family-friendly destination. 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 Grindelwald or Wernigerode Better for Couples?

Grindelwald
Wernigerode

Both Grindelwald and Wernigerode are very good destinations to visit as a couple.

Couples visit Grindelwald frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. Most people don't visit for the town itself, but instead for the many outdoor adventures in the area. Couples that enjoy hiking and skiing will appreciate a visit to this beautiful alpine setting.

Wernigerode is a great town 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 Grindelwald or Wernigerode Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Grindelwald
Wernigerode

Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald. There are a decent number of hostels in the area, so the town makes a good base for backpackers.

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

Grindelwald
Wernigerode

You'll find somewhat comparable public transit options in both Grindelwald and Wernigerode.

You'll find some public transit in Grindelwald, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. There are local buses that travel around the region.

While Wernigerode offers some public transit options, it might not be your first choice. 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 Grindelwald or Wernigerode a more walkable city?

Grindelwald
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a world-class destination for its ease of walking around. Also, Grindelwald is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Grindelwald is somewhat walkable. Most places in town can be reached on foot but there can be a lot of traffic on the main thoroughfares.

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

Should I spend more time in Wernigerode or Grindelwald?

How long in Grindelwald or Wernigerode?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Grindelwald and Wernigerode. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Wernigerode than in Grindelwald. Usually, 1-2 days is a good amount of time for Grindelwald, and 1-3 days is enough time in Wernigerode.

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

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


  • How many days in Grindelwald or Wernigerode? Ideal Length of Stay
    Grindelwald 1-2 
    Wernigerode 1-3

One day in Grindelwald or Wernigerode?

Grindelwald is a small town with plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. Most people visit for the hiking. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the charming town of Wernigerode. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Grindelwald or Wernigerode?

Grindelwald might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Many visitors also spend a good bit of time hiking. This town 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the quaint small town of Wernigerode. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This town 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.

Five days in Grindelwald or Wernigerode?

Because Grindelwald is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. Make sure you spend some time hiking while you're in the area. 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.

The cute town of Wernigerode offers food 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.

A week in Grindelwald or Wernigerode?

Since Grindelwald is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Many travelers plan to spend time hiking while in the area. Most people visit for the hiking. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Many people enjoy the museums and food when visiting Wernigerode. 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.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 10-Day Tours in Switzerland, The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Switzerland, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Wernigerode or Grindelwald?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Grindelwald is $241, 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 Grindelwald and Wernigerode in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Grindelwald $141
    Wernigerode $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Grindelwald $282
    Wernigerode $158
Compare Hotels in Grindelwald and Wernigerode

Looking for a hotel in Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald


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: Grindelwald Hotel Prices and Wernigerode Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Grindelwald $53
    Wernigerode $20

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Grindelwald

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Grindelwald:

  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Zurich Airport (ZRH) - Departure Transfer: $87
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Geneva Airport (GVA) - Departure Transfer: $180
  • Grindelwald/Wengen to Malpensa Airport (MXP) - Departure Transfer: $201

Is it cheaper to fly into Grindelwald or Wernigerode?

Prices for flights to both Wernigerode and Grindelwald 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
    Grindelwald $58
    Wernigerode $49

Typical Food Prices in Wernigerode

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


  • Dinner for Two
    $24
  • Soda
    $1.82

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Grindelwald $59
    Wernigerode $30

Tours and Activities in Grindelwald

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

  • Glacier Canyon Entrance Ticket: $21
  • Indoor Ropes Park Entry Ticket: $40
  • Grindelwald First: Cable Car Ticket with Cliff Walk: $134
  • Grindelwald First (Top of Adventure) Ticket incl. Cliff Walk: $142
  • From Jungfraujoch Round-Trip Railway Ticket: $231
  • Switzerland: Private Skiing Day Tour for any level: $447

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


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


Which is Bigger, Grindelwald or Wernigerode?

Wernigerode has a larger population, and is about 9 times larger than the population of Grindelwald. When comparing the sizes of Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald 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 Grindelwald or Wernigerode in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Grindelwald and Wernigerode. The summer months attract visitors to Grindelwald because of the hiking, the small town charm, and the family-friendly experiences. Furthermore, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Wernigerode this time of year.

In the summer, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Wernigerode. Typically, the summer temperatures in Grindelwald in July average around 23°C (73°F), and Wernigerode averages at about 19°C (65°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wernigerode this time of the year. In Grindelwald, it's very sunny this time of the year. Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Wernigerode during summer. Grindelwald gets 250 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 201 hours of full sun in the summer.

Grindelwald gets a good bit of rain this time of year. In July, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Grindelwald gets 133 mm (5.2 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Grindelwald 23°C (73°F) 
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Wernigerode in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Grindelwald as well as Wernigerode. The hiking trails, the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Grindelwald this time of year. Additionally, many travelers come to Wernigerode for the small town atmosphere.

In October, Grindelwald is generally a little warmer than Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Grindelwald average around 15°C (58°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Wernigerode. Grindelwald gets 152 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 120 hours of full sun.

Grindelwald receives a lot of rain in the autumn. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in October than Wernigerode. Grindelwald gets 140 mm (5.5 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Grindelwald 15°C (58°F) 
    Wernigerode 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Wernigerode in the Winter?

Both Wernigerode and Grindelwald are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Grindelwald for the skiing, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Wernigerode in the winter for the museums and the cuisine.

Wernigerode can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Grindelwald. Grindelwald is much warmer than Wernigerode in the winter. The daily temperature in Grindelwald averages around 5°C (41°F) in January, and Wernigerode fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Grindelwald usually receives more sunshine than Wernigerode during winter. Grindelwald gets 119 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Grindelwald usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Grindelwald gets 76 mm (3 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Grindelwald 5°C (41°F) 
    Wernigerode 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Grindelwald or Wernigerode in the Spring?

Both Wernigerode and Grindelwald during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Grindelwald in the spring for the small town charm and the natural beauty. Also, most visitors come to Wernigerode for the small town charm during these months.

In the spring, Grindelwald is a little warmer than Wernigerode. Typically, the spring temperatures in Grindelwald in April average around 13°C (55°F), and Wernigerode averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Grindelwald often gets more sunshine than Wernigerode. Grindelwald gets 176 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 150 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Grindelwald. Grindelwald usually gets more rain in April than Wernigerode. Grindelwald gets 152 mm (6 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Grindelwald 13°C (55°F) 
    Wernigerode 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Wernigerode and Grindelwald

Grindelwald Wernigerode
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 76 mm (3 in) 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 10°C (49°F) 106 mm (4.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 13°C (55°F) 152 mm (6 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (62°F) 194 mm (7.6 in) 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 20°C (69°F) 171 mm (6.7 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 23°C (73°F) 133 mm (5.2 in) 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 22°C (72°F) 166 mm (6.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 19°C (67°F) 153 mm (6 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in)
Oct 15°C (58°F) 140 mm (5.5 in) 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 9°C (49°F) 120 mm (4.7 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 6°C (42°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)