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

Should you visit Heraklion or Wernigerode?

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

Trying to figure out where to travel next? This travel comparison between Heraklion and Wernigerode can help. It includes a travel cost comparison in addition to other factors. For many travelers, the cost of a destination is a primary consideration when choosing where to go.

Heraklion

Heraklion is a historic, vibrant, and accessible city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a quintessential, fairytale-like, and charming town. You'll find plenty of local activities in this small town. Visitors also love the food and museums.

Heraklion and Wernigerode: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
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


Is there more to do in Heraklion or Wernigerode?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Heraklion. Although Heraklion and Wernigerode are popular destinations, Heraklion has more sights and attractions for tourists. Heraklion is very popular for its food, nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Wernigerode attracts visitors for its historical sights and small town charm. Heraklion is famous for its archeological sights, local Cretan restaurants, and its vibrant nightlife scene. It is also well known for The Palace of Knossos. Wernigerode is famous for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle.

How is Heraklion different from Wernigerode?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Heraklion
Wernigerode

Visiting museums and landmarks is a fun activity in both Heraklion and Wernigerode.

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into Heraklion. The city is filled with historical sights and archeological ruins. The impressive Palace of Knossos is a must-see, but also make sure you visit the Koules Fortress, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Natural History Museum of Crete.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Wernigerode. 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 Heraklion or Wernigerode? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Heraklion
Wernigerode

Heraklion 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, Heraklion makes for a great culinary experience. The city is home to countless Cretan restaurants that range in style and budget. There are fine dining restaurants as well as local dives with casual street food. The restaurants reflect the island's multi-cultural past with many styles and flavors available.

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 Heraklion or Wernigerode Better for Nightlife?

Heraklion
Wernigerode

Heraklion is a well-known place for nightlife. However, Wernigerode is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Heraklion offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has some of the best nightlife on the island of Crete. There are many all-night clubs as well as bars that stay open until 2 or 3 in the morning. In particular, there are many British tourists hanging out at the clubs and bars.

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 Heraklion or Wernigerode Better for Beaches?

Heraklion
Wernigerode

Heraklion is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Wernigerode is not a beach destination.

Heraklion is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find world-class beaches just outside of town, if you're willing to explore a little. Agia Pelagia Beach is about half an hour away and Limanakia Beach is also not a bad day trip. If you want to stay closer to town, head to nearby Amnissos Beach.

Wernigerode is not a beach destination.


Is Heraklion or Wernigerode Better for its Old Town?

Heraklion
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a world-class destination for its old town. However, Heraklion 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.

Heraklion does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Heraklion or Wernigerode?

Heraklion
Wernigerode

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

Heraklion is a great destination for shopping. There are a number of unique shops around town that sell everything from traditional pottery to homemade jewelry.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Heraklion or Wernigerode Better for Families?

Heraklion
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a very popular place for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its family-friendly activities.

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Heraklion. In town you'll find many historical and educational sights such as the Palace of Knossos, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, and the Koules Venetian fortress. Kids will also enjoy walking the Venetian Walls that are in town. If you're willing to head a bit outside of town, in about half an hour you can reach the Cretaquarium, Dinosauria Park, or Acqua Plus Water Park.


Is Heraklion or Wernigerode Better for Couples?

Heraklion
Wernigerode

Both Heraklion and Wernigerode are superb destinations for a couple's getaway.

Heraklion makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. Most couples head outside of town to other parts of the island, but those who linger in town for a while will enjoy world-class museums and fascinating archeological sights.

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.

Is Heraklion or Wernigerode Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Heraklion
Wernigerode

Heraklion 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 Heraklion. The city is filled with budget-friendly hostels that often have a social atmosphere and a fun vibe.

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

Heraklion
Wernigerode

Visitors will find nice public transit in both Heraklion and Wernigerode.

Heraklion has some public transit options. KTEL buses travel both within town and to nearby villages.

You'll find some public transit in Wernigerode, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. 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 Heraklion or Wernigerode a more walkable city?

Heraklion
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Heraklion is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its ease of walking around.

It's very easy to get around on foot in Wernigerode. You can easily explore the town and the nearby castle on foot.

Heraklion is a very walkable destination. Many parts of the town are walkable and doing a walking tour is a great way to see many of the city's sights.

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

Should I spend more time in Wernigerode or Heraklion?

How long in Heraklion or Wernigerode?

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

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


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

One day in Heraklion or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the accessible city of Heraklion. It's also a great beach destination, too. 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. Visiting the old town is also a must. One day is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Wernigerode has to offer. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A weekend in Heraklion or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the historic destination of Heraklion. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. This is a popular place to visit for a weekend.A weekend should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from.


Five days in Heraklion or Wernigerode?

The vibrant city of Heraklion offers shopping and museums. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

A week in Heraklion or Wernigerode?

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Heraklion. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Wernigerode is a popular choice for travelers. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. One week 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. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.


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


Which place is cheaper, Wernigerode or Heraklion?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Heraklion is €158, 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 Heraklion and Wernigerode in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Heraklion 81
    Wernigerode 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Heraklion 162
    Wernigerode 148
Compare Hotels in Heraklion and Wernigerode

Looking for a hotel in Heraklion 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 Heraklion


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: Heraklion Hotel Prices and Wernigerode Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Heraklion 31
    Wernigerode 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heraklion

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

  • One-Way Shared Transfer From or To Heraklion Air - Hersonissos: $16
  • Acqua Plus Water Park Admission with Optional Transfer: $32
  • Private Transfer in Crete: $33
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to KOKKINI HANI area up to 7 customers: $44
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to AMMOUDARA HERAKLION area up to 7: $47
  • Crete Private Transfer from Heraklion to Hersonissos: $51
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to ANISSARAS area up to 7 customers: $61
  • VIP Private Transfer: Heraklion - Analipsi Hotels & Villas: $62
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to HERSONISSOS area up to 7 customers: $62
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to KOUTOULOUFARI area up to 7 : $62
  • Transfer Heraklion Airport to AGIA PELAGIA area up to 7 customers: $62
  • Transfer Heraklio Airport to ANALIPSI area up to 7 customers: $62

Is it cheaper to fly into Heraklion or Wernigerode?

Prices for flights to both Wernigerode and Heraklion 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
    Heraklion 52
    Wernigerode 45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heraklion

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

  • Troy Dinner-Show: $33
  • Spectacular Dinner-Show: $44
  • From Village Cretan Night, Live Dancers & dinner: $48
  • Cretan Night with Dinner & Live Show: $49
  • Crete: Olive Oil Festival, Farm Dinner, Live Show & Pickup: $59
  • Cretan Farm with scenic view: Olive Mill Festival & dinner: $64
  • Amazing Sunset Safari Route with Dinner: $84
  • Cook with Locals | Cretan cooking Class at Archanes (transfer - lunch included): $86
  • Crete: Land Rover Safari with Sunset Viewing, Dinner, & Wine: $90
  • Full-Day Jeep Safari Tour with Cooking Lesson: $97
  • Food tour tasting walking tour: $123
  • E-bike Food Tour Tasting in Heraklion : $125

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.
    Heraklion 38
    Wernigerode 28

Tours and Activities in Heraklion

For Heraklion, here are a few prices for actual activities, tours, and tickets provided by various companies:

  • Heraklion Area: CRETAquarium Admission Ticket: $8.56
  • CRETAquarium Entrance Ticket in Crete: $8.73
  • Mobile Self-Guided Audio Sightseeing Tour: $11
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Crete: Palace of Knossos E-Ticket and Optional Audio Guide: $11
  • Herakleion: City Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Heraklion Market & CretAquarium *Skip the line: $16
  • Heraklion City Tour - Aquarium: $17
  • Knossos Palace: E-ticket with Audio and Heraklion City Tour: $18
  • Party Bike 1 hour Experience in Malia : $19
  • Knossos Self-Guided Treasure Hunt & Tour KIDS: $21
  • Minoan Day Experience: $22

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Heraklion 26
    Wernigerode 21

Sample the Local Flavors in Heraklion

Also in Heraklion, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Wine Tasting E-Bike Tour: $95
  • Ecobike Wine Tasting Tour in Heraklion: $115
  • Ecobike Tour with Wine Tasting: $118
  • Luxury Private Wine Tasting Experience in Haralabakis Winery: $119
  • Half Day Small Group Wine Tour with wine Tastings: $125
  • Half Day Semi Private Wine Tour with Tastings: $134
  • Semi Private Heraklion Valley Wine Tour with Lunch: $159
  • The Gourmet Wine Tour of Heraklion area: $180
  • Private SUV Wine Tour with Lunch: $183
  • Full Day Private Crete Wine Tour Experience from Heraklion : $190
  • Full day Knossos Palace, Local Distillery, Lunch @ Archanes: $192
  • Knossos, Olive Mill, Winery - Distillery with Tastings & Lunch : $196


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


Which is Bigger, Heraklion or Wernigerode?

Heraklion has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Wernigerode. When comparing the sizes of Heraklion 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 Heraklion or Wernigerode?

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

Should I visit Heraklion or Wernigerode in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Heraklion as well as Wernigerode. Many visitors come to Heraklion in the summer for the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Wernigerode for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Heraklion is generally a little warmer than Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 25°C (78°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Wernigerode. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Heraklion this time of the year. In the summer, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Wernigerode. Heraklion gets 366 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 201 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets less rain in July than Wernigerode. Heraklion gets 1 mm (0 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Heraklion 25°C (78°F) 
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Heraklion or Wernigerode in the Autumn?

Both Wernigerode and Heraklion are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Heraklion for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Wernigerode because of the small town atmosphere.

Heraklion is much warmer than Wernigerode in the autumn. The daily temperature in Heraklion averages around 20°C (68°F) in October, and Wernigerode fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Wernigerode during autumn. Heraklion gets 199 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Heraklion usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Heraklion gets 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Heraklion 20°C (68°F) 
    Wernigerode 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Heraklion or Wernigerode in the Winter?

Both Wernigerode and Heraklion during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Heraklion because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Wernigerode this time of year.

It's quite cold in Wernigerode in the winter. In the winter, Heraklion is much warmer than Wernigerode. Typically, the winter temperatures in Heraklion in January average around 12°C (54°F), and Wernigerode averages at about 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Heraklion often gets more sunshine than Wernigerode. Heraklion gets 121 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 60 hours of full sun.

Heraklion usually gets more rain in January than Wernigerode. Heraklion gets 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Heraklion 12°C (54°F) 
    Wernigerode 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Heraklion or Wernigerode in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Heraklion and Wernigerode. The beaches and the activities around the city are the main draw to Heraklion this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wernigerode for the small town charm.

In April, Heraklion is generally much warmer than Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Heraklion average around 16°C (61°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In Heraklion, it's very sunny this time of the year. Heraklion usually receives more sunshine than Wernigerode during spring. Heraklion gets 224 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Heraklion usually receives less rain than Wernigerode. Heraklion gets 30 mm (1.2 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Heraklion 16°C (61°F) 
    Wernigerode 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Wernigerode and Heraklion

Heraklion Wernigerode
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 12°C (54°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 12°C (54°F) 77 mm (3 in) 2°C (36°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 14°C (56°F) 57 mm (2.2 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 16°C (61°F) 30 mm (1.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 19°C (67°F) 15 mm (0.6 in) 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 23°C (74°F) 3 mm (0.1 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 25°C (78°F) 1 mm (0 in) 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 25°C (77°F) 1 mm (0 in) 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in)
Oct 20°C (68°F) 69 mm (2.7 in) 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 17°C (63°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 14°C (58°F) 77 mm (3 in) 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)


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