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

Should you visit Istanbul or Wernigerode?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Istanbul or Wernigerode, this travel comparison, which includes costs, can help. The overall cost of travel is usually a consideration when deciding where to go next, and the cost comparison down below can help you decide based on the average prices from other travelers along with your own travel budget.

Istanbul

Istanbul is a historic, diverse, and beautiful city. It's an amazing and huge city with tons of activities and things to do. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Wernigerode

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

Istanbul and Wernigerode: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Popular for food and cuisine
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Good public transit
  • Big city activities
  • Impressive beauty
  • Home to the Blue Mosque
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for food
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Public transit not as usable


Is there more to do in Istanbul or Wernigerode?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Istanbul. Although Istanbul and Wernigerode are both popular with visitors, Istanbul has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Istanbul is more popular for its museums, food, nightlife, shopping, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Wernigerode is known for its small town charm. Istanbul is more touristy than Wernigerode and is known for its world class historical sights, stunning mosques, and dynamic energy. It is also home to The Blue Mosque. Wernigerode is popular for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle.

How is Istanbul different from Wernigerode?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Istanbul
Wernigerode

Istanbul is very popular for its sights and museums. Also, Wernigerode is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its museums and history.

Visitors will find world class museums and historical sights in Istanbul that are not to be missed. With such a long and diverse religious and political history, it has many museums, mosques, churches, and archeological sites that you can visit. Some of the most famous sights include the Hagia Sophia, Topkapi Sarayi, and the Blue Mosque.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Wernigerode can be an interesting and educational experience. 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 Istanbul or Wernigerode? Which Destination has the Best Restaurants?

Istanbul
Wernigerode

Istanbul is very popular for its local cuisine and restaurants. Also, Wernigerode is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its restaurants.

Istanbul has long been recognized as a culinary destination with great restaurants. From Turkish classics to sweet desserts, the city has it all. Popular dishes include Turkish style pizza, kebabs, and doner, which you'll find everywhere for affordable prices. You'll also find many tourist-centered restaurants in the touristy areas but if you get away from the main sights, you'll find more local options that let you sample high quality food for affordable prices.

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 Istanbul or Wernigerode Better for Nightlife?

Istanbul
Wernigerode

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

Istanbul offers plenty to do in the evening. Dancing, dining, and partying have all become part of Istanbul's culture. Top nightclubs in the city include Reina, Sortie, and Supperclub. If you're looking for dance clubs and alcohol, your best bet is to head to the Beyoglu district.

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 Istanbul or Wernigerode Better for its Old Town?

Istanbul
Wernigerode

Istanbul and Wernigerode both have terrific historical old towns that attract visitors.

Istanbul offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. The Old City in Istanbul is the most historic part of the city. It's where you'll find most of the city's historic sights. The area around Sultanahmet Square is the most popular tourist area to explore.

Wernigerode has a world-famous historical area. If you're looking for an almost flawless old town with charm and few imperfections, then this is your place.


Is the Shopping Better in Istanbul or Wernigerode?

Istanbul
Wernigerode

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

Istanbul is an extremely popular place for shoppers. It is the capital of culture and fashion in Turkey, and there are many shopping areas that carry all kinds of brands. For a more traditional, but touristy experience head to the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Market. For modern brands, Istiklal Caddesi is the most popular area for shopping.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Istanbul or Wernigerode Better for Families?

Istanbul
Wernigerode

Istanbul and Wernigerode are both excellent destinations for the whole family.

Istanbul is a very family-friendly place to visit. The city has several kid-friendly museums, a couple of aquariums, and fun theme parks. If the kids need a break from the city, you can spend a day at Vialand Theme Park or LEGOLAND Discovery Center Istanbul. Food in Istanbul is also very kid-friendly with many affordable dishes that young ones will enjoy.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Wernigerode is very family-friendly. The town feels like you've landed in a fairytale book, which your kids will love. There's a train and a castle to explore. There's also the fun citizen and miniature parks and the fairytale trail. In addition to all of the sights and attractions, there are playgrounds and animal attractions that kids will love.

Is Istanbul or Wernigerode Better for Couples?

Istanbul
Wernigerode

Istanbul and Wernigerode are both excellent to visit as a couple.

Istanbul is a very popular place to visit for couples. Couples who enjoy history, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods will enjoy a romantic stay here. The city lights up at night and there are many rooftop dessert cafes where you can take in the view. The waterfront setting is the perfect place to watch the sunset and there are many places to walk and soak up the atmosphere.

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 Istanbul or Wernigerode Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Istanbul
Wernigerode

Istanbul is very popular for backpackers. Also, Wernigerode is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Istanbul is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. There are plenty of hostels and budget accommodation options, and there's also plenty of ways to meet other travelers. You'll find plenty of hostels concentrated in the Sultanahmet area.

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 Istanbul or Wernigerode Better for Students?

Istanbul
Wernigerode

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

Istanbul is very popular with students. Students appreciate the city's vibrant neighborhoods, constant activity, and diverse population.

Wernigerode is not popular with students.

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

Istanbul
Wernigerode

Istanbul 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.

Istanbul has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. It has a comprehensive and diverse public transit system that includes buses, trams, minibuses, ferries, funicular, and more.

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 Istanbul or Wernigerode a more walkable city?

Istanbul
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is an amazing town to visit for its walkability. Also, Istanbul 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.

Istanbul is a very walkable city. Although it is huge, most of the neighborhoods that tourists visit are incredibly walkable and pedestrian-friendly.

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

Should I spend more time in Wernigerode or Istanbul?

How long in Istanbul or Wernigerode?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Istanbul and Wernigerode. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Istanbul than in Wernigerode. Usually, 3-7 days is a good amount of time for Istanbul, and 1-3 days is enough time in Wernigerode.

Families should spend more time in Istanbul than Wernigerode. Because of the many family-friendly attractions and fun things to do for kids in Istanbul, it's a great place to visit with the whole family.

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

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


  • How many days in Istanbul or Wernigerode? Ideal Length of Stay
    Istanbul 3-7 
    Wernigerode 1-3

One day in Istanbul or Wernigerode?

Istanbul is a beautiful city where you can fill many days. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is usually not enough time for a trip here as there is plenty to do. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Wernigerode is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. With all of its activities, you can easily fill one day here. It will give you the chance to have new experiences.

A weekend in Istanbul or Wernigerode?

Istanbul is a diverse big city where you can fill many days. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. This city offers something for everyone. Since there is so much to do in the area, a weekend is probably not enough for all of it.

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


Five days in Istanbul or Wernigerode?

Istanbul is a high-energy city where you can fill many days. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

Wernigerode is a popular choice for travelers. Five days is usually plenty of time to spend here with extra days to spare. With this much time, visitors often visit nearby destinations or take day trips. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A week in Istanbul or Wernigerode?

Istanbul is a big city destination where you can fill many days. Anyone can find something fun to do here. This is a popular place to visit for one week. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. In one week, you should have a good grasp of this city.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best 2-Week Tours in Turkey, Tours for Outdoor and Nature Lovers in Turkey, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Wernigerode or Istanbul?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Istanbul is $126, 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 Istanbul and Wernigerode in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Istanbul $47
    Wernigerode $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Istanbul $94
    Wernigerode $158
Compare Hotels in Istanbul and Wernigerode

Looking for a hotel in Istanbul 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 Istanbul


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: Istanbul Hotel Prices and Wernigerode Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Istanbul $55
    Wernigerode $20
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Istanbul

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


  • Ferry
    $0.09
  • Local Bus
    $0.09

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Istanbul

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Istanbul:

  • Princes' Islands Tour with Lunch and Transfers: $13
  • Private Transfer from Istanbul Hotels to Istanbul Cruise Port: $19
  • Istanbul City to Istanbul Sabiha Gokcen Airport (SAW)-Departure Private Transfer: $20
  • Airport - Otel Transfer and City Tours: $20
  • Private One-Way New Istanbul Airport Transfer To/From Istanbul: $21
  • Istanbul Hotels to Istanbul Ataturk Airport (ISL) - Departure Private Transfer: $22
  • Istanbul Airport (SAW) to Istanbul - Arrival Private Transfer: $22
  • Istanbul to Istanbul Airport (SAW) - Departure Private Transfer: $22
  • Istanbul Airport Private Transfers: $22
  • Princes' Islands Cruise w/Music, Lunch & Transfer: $24
  • Istanbul Airport VIP/ULTRA VIP Transfer, Free WIFI: $25
  • Private Transfer from Istanbul Hotels to Istanbul Cruise Port: $26

Is it cheaper to fly into Istanbul or Wernigerode?

Prices for flights to both Wernigerode and Istanbul 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
    Istanbul $31
    Wernigerode $49
Typical Food Prices in Istanbul

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


  • Juice
    $0.06
  • Turkish Delight
    $0.02
  • Dessert
    $0.26
  • Pastries
    $0.05

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Istanbul

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

  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Turkish Night Show from Istanbul: $16
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise & Show with Private Table: $17
  • Dinner Cruise and Entertainment with Private Table: $17
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise , Unlimited Drinks, & Show: $21
  • Bosphorus Luxury Catamaran Cruise with Dinner Show: $25
  • Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show: $26
  • Bosphorus Boat Cruise with Dinner & Entertainment: $27
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise with Unlimited Drinks and Shows: $28
  • Dinner Cruise Bosphorus with Hotel Transfer: $28
  • Istanbul Bosphorus Dinner Cruise and Turkish Night Show: $29
  • Half Day Sunset Luxury Yacht Dinner Cruise Tour in Istanbul: $29
  • 3 Hour Ottoman Dinner Cruise in Istanbul : $29

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.
    Istanbul $79
    Wernigerode $30
Typical Entertainment Prices in Istanbul

Some typical examples of activities, tours, and entrance ticket prices in Istanbul are as follows:


  • Bosphurus Boat (for 2)
    $0.62
  • Yerebatan Cistern for Two
    $0.62
  • Museum of Turkish and Islamic Arts for Two
    $0.31
  • Hagia Sofia entrance
    $0.93

Tours and Activities in Istanbul

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

  • App self-guided tours Istanbul with multilingual audioguide: $2.14
  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • City Tour with Audio Guide in your smartphone: $5.35
  • Highlights Self Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $5.35
  • Hagia Sophia Exclusive Digital Audio Guided Tour: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Istanbul Outdoor Escape Game: The Royal Adventure: $7.08
  • Istanbul in a day: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in English: $7.87
  • Daytime or Sunset Sightseeing Cruise & Audio Guide: $8.06
  • Hippodrome and Blue Mosque Guided Tour: $8.73
  • Bosphorus Sightseeing Cruise with Audio Guide: $9.62
  • The Royal Adventure Highlights Exploration Game: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Istanbul $15
    Wernigerode $23

Sample the Local Flavors in Istanbul

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Istanbul:

  • Istanbul Pub Crawl Big Nightout . Rooftop parties,party Bus & Nightlife: $22
  • Istanbul 7-Hour Pub Crawl: Big Night Out: $27
  • Famous Istanbul Pub Crawl #1 Nightlife Experience: $27
  • Party Pub Crawl with Party Bus: $29
  • Wine Tasting Experience in Istanbul : $50
  • Istanbul Wine Tasting at Home with Local Family: $80
  • 2-Day Wine Tasting Tour along the Thracian Wine Route: $180
  • Istanbul Private Wine Tasting Tour Through 3 City Wineries : $245
  • Istanbul Private and Guided, Food and Wine Tasting Tour: $430
  • Luxury Wine Tasting on a Private Yacht: $844


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


Which is Bigger, Istanbul or Wernigerode?

Istanbul has a larger population, and is about 320 times larger than the population of Wernigerode. When comparing the sizes of Istanbul 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 Istanbul 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 Istanbul or Wernigerode in the Summer?

Both Wernigerode and Istanbul are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Istanbul for the city activities and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Wernigerode because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Wernigerode in the summer. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 24°C (74°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 Istanbul. Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Wernigerode during summer. Istanbul gets 333 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 201 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Istanbul usually receives less rain than Wernigerode. Istanbul gets 19 mm (0.7 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Istanbul 24°C (74°F) 
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Wernigerode in the Autumn?

Both Wernigerode and Istanbul during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Istanbul because of the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Furthermore, the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Wernigerode this time of year.

In the autumn, Istanbul is a little warmer than Wernigerode. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Istanbul in October average around 16°C (61°F), and Wernigerode averages at about 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Wernigerode. Istanbul gets 169 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 120 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets more rain in October than Wernigerode. Istanbul gets 71 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Istanbul 16°C (61°F) 
    Wernigerode 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Wernigerode in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Istanbul and Wernigerode. The museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine are the main draw to Istanbul this time of year. Furthermore, many travelers come to Wernigerode for the museums and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Wernigerode. In January, Istanbul is generally much warmer than Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Istanbul average around 6°C (43°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Istanbul usually receives more sunshine than Wernigerode during winter. Istanbul gets 75 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Istanbul usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Istanbul gets 99 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Istanbul 6°C (43°F) 
    Wernigerode 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Istanbul or Wernigerode in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Istanbul as well as Wernigerode. Many travelers come to Istanbul for the activities around the city and the natural beauty. Additionally, many visitors come to Wernigerode in the spring for the small town charm.

Istanbul is a little warmer than Wernigerode in the spring. The daily temperature in Istanbul averages around 13°C (55°F) in April, and Wernigerode fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Istanbul often gets more sunshine than Wernigerode. Istanbul gets 180 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 150 hours of full sun.

Istanbul usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Wernigerode. Istanbul gets 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Typical Weather for Wernigerode and Istanbul

Istanbul Wernigerode
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 6°C (43°F) 99 mm (3.9 in) 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 6°C (44°F) 67 mm (2.6 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 13°C (55°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 17°C (63°F) 31 mm (1.2 in) 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 21°C (71°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 24°C (74°F) 19 mm (0.7 in) 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 24°C (74°F) 26 mm (1 in) 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 20°C (69°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 12°C (54°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 9°C (47°F) 122 mm (4.8 in) 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)