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

Should you visit Murren 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 Murren 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.

Murren

Murren is a stunning, serene, and authentic town. This is a great small town that is just waiting to be explored. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It's also known for skiing, food, and hiking.

Wernigerode

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

Murren and Wernigerode: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Murren or Wernigerode?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Murren. Although Murren and Wernigerode are both popular with visitors, Murren has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Murren is more popular for its skiing, hiking, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Wernigerode is known for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm. Murren is popular for its spectacular mountain views, authentically local atmosphere, and world class hiking and skiing. It is also home to Lauterbrunnen Valley. Wernigerode is popular for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle.

How is Murren different from Wernigerode?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Is Murren or Wernigerode Better for Skiing?

Murren
Wernigerode

Murren is very popular for snow skiing. However, Wernigerode is not a skiing destination.

Murren is among the world's best ski destinations. If you're visiting in the winter, you're in luck because the scenery and the slopes are both amazing. The top of Schilthorn is quickly accessed from the gondola and ski lifts, and heading down you'll find some difficult runs along with easier slopes. Enjoy your apres-ski in the village with cozy drinks and a dinner of fondue. And with more time, you can easily get across the valley to the Grindelwald-Wengen ski area, too.

Wernigerode is not a skiing destination.


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

Murren
Wernigerode

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

You'll find a good number of museums and monuments packed into 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.

If you're looking to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Murren. You don't visit this area for the museums, so if you're looking for an indoor activity on a rainy day, your options are limited.

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

Murren
Wernigerode

Picking the best cuisine and restaurants between Murren and Wernigerode can be difficult as they are each good in their own way.

Murren offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. If you can afford the prices, you'll enjoy some great meals of fondue or local steak. There aren't many restaurants in town and some of the best are attached to the hotels. Those on a tight budget will be frustrated because cheap eats are hard to come by. You may as well pay a little more and enjoy a high quality, fine dining experience.

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 Murren or Wernigerode Better for Nightlife?

Murren
Wernigerode

Party-goers will find similar levels of energy in Murren and Wernigerode.

Murren is generally a quiet destination but there are options around. It's a quiet and residential town that is more about the daytime activities than the nightlife scene.

Wernigerode doesn't have the most active nightlife scene. 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 Murren or Wernigerode Better for its Old Town?

Murren
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is an amazing town to visit for its historic old town. However, Murren does not have a historic old town.

Wernigerode offers visitors a world-class historical old town to explore. If you're looking for an almost flawless old town with charm and few imperfections, then this is your place.

Murren does not have a historic old town.

Is Murren or Wernigerode Better for Hiking?

Murren
Wernigerode

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

Many people visit Murren specifically for its hiking. Hiking trails pass right through the town, connecting the many alpine towns in the area. There are hikes for all levels, and each offers stunning views of the surrounding peaks, which include Eiger, Jungfrau, and Monch.

Wernigerode is not a hiking destination.

Is the Shopping Better in Murren or Wernigerode?

Murren
Wernigerode

Murren is not a good place to visit for shopping. However, Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Murren has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. Aside from a food market or two, there aren't many shops in town and prices for everything are a bit high.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Murren or Wernigerode Better for Families?

Murren
Wernigerode

Both Murren and Wernigerode are superb to visit with kids.

Murren is a very family-friendly place to visit. Kid-friendly activities are everywhere in this amazing town. Take the Allmendhubel Funicular Train and explore one of the coolest playgrounds ever! Family-friendly trails abound and outdoor adventures with spectacular views are fun for everyone.

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 Murren or Wernigerode Better for Couples?

Murren
Wernigerode

Murren is very popular for romance. Also, Wernigerode is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for its romantic activities.

For those traveling as a couple, Murren has plenty to offer. This small town offers charming hotels, hidden viewpoints, and romantic hikes through the Alps. If you want to experience an authentic side to the Alps, then stay in this town and explore the many hiking trails in the area.

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 Murren or Wernigerode Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Murren
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a town with good options for backpackers. However, Murren is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Wernigerode is a good town to visit for backpackers. 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.

Murren is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. There aren't any hostels in town so it's a bit difficult to stay in Murren as a backpacker. There are a number of charming hostels in the surrounding area though and they each have a unique local character.


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

Murren
Wernigerode

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

You'll find some public transit in Murren, but it may not be enough to take you everywhere. Train, cable car, and funicular are the only ways to reach this car-free town.

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 Murren or Wernigerode a more walkable city?

Murren
Wernigerode

Murren and Wernigerode both are amazing when exploring on foot.

Getting around Murren on foot is easy. It's a small town with a very limited number of vehicles so it's best explored on foot. There are also many walking trails in the area.

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

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

Should I spend more time in Wernigerode or Murren?

How long in Murren or Wernigerode?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Murren and Wernigerode. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Murren than in Wernigerode. Usually, 2-4 days is a good amount of time for Murren, and 1-3 days is enough time in Wernigerode.

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

Backpackers and budget travelers should spend more time in Wernigerode than Murren if your budget allows for it. With a larger number of budget-friendly sights, good nightlife, and active things to do, anyone traveling on a budget would have a good time in Wernigerode.


  • How many days in Murren or Wernigerode? Ideal Length of Stay
    Murren 2-4 
    Wernigerode 1-3

One day in Murren or Wernigerode?

Murren is a small town with plenty to do. Hikers are also drawn to this area. 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.

Many travelers enjoy the museums and food when visiting the small town destination of Wernigerode. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Murren or Wernigerode?

Murren 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.

Wernigerode is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Murren or Wernigerode?

Because Murren 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.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wernigerode. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Five days may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Murren or Wernigerode?

Since Murren 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 find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Travelers enjoy the food and museums when visiting the quaint small town of Wernigerode. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Luxury Tours to Switzerland, The Best Tours for Seniors to Switzerland, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Wernigerode or Murren?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Murren is $407, 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 Murren and Wernigerode in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Murren $217
    Wernigerode $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Murren $434
    Wernigerode $158
Compare Hotels in Murren and Wernigerode

Looking for a hotel in Murren 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 Murren


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: Murren Hotel Prices and Wernigerode Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Murren $50
    Wernigerode $20

Is it cheaper to fly into Murren or Wernigerode?

Prices for flights to both Wernigerode and Murren 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
    Murren $150
    Wernigerode $49

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Murren

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

  • Sunset hike with outdoor Cheese Fondue dinner: $167

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.
    Murren $59
    Wernigerode $30

Tours and Activities in Murren

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

  • Swiss countryside tour in free-cars town: $123
  • Sledding adventure with Chocolate degustation: $129
  • Private Speedriding Tandem Experience in Switzerland: $279

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Murren $19
    Wernigerode $23


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


Which is Bigger, Murren or Wernigerode?

Wernigerode has a larger population, and is about 80 times larger than the population of Murren. When comparing the sizes of Murren 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.

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