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

Should you visit Salzburg or Wernigerode?

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

If you're trying to decide where to visit between Salzburg 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.

Salzburg

Salzburg is a cultural, recognizable, and historic city. You'll find world class beauty here as well. It also has that perfectly quaint feel that is like no other place. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a cute, quintessential, and fairytale-like 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.

Salzburg and Wernigerode: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Salzburg or Wernigerode?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Salzburg than Wernigerode, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Salzburg is better known for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Wernigerode is more popular for its small town charm. Salzburg is more touristy than Wernigerode and is known for its elegant breakfasts, its classical music scene, and its role in the Sound of Music. Also, Salzburg is famous for The Salzburg Old Town. Wernigerode is well known for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle.

The Salzburg Old Town
The Salzburg Old Town

How is Salzburg different from Wernigerode?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Salzburg
Wernigerode

For an educational experience, head to a museum or a notable sight in either Salzburg or Wernigerode.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Salzburg can be an interesting and educational experience. There are many historic sights to explore including Mozart's birthplace, the Mozart Residence, the Salzburg Museum, and the many stunning churches and concert halls.

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.


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

Salzburg
Wernigerode

Salzburg 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, Salzburg makes for a great culinary experience. The old town is filled with charming restaurants that serve local specialties including schnitzel, tafelspitz, and strudel. The city is also known for it's impressive breakfast spread that is often served on a three tiered cake stand and includes cheeses, salami, fresh fruit, pastries, olives, jams and more.

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 Salzburg or Wernigerode Better for Nightlife?

Salzburg
Wernigerode

Salzburg 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 Salzburg. The city has a number of trendy bars, pubs, and clubs where you can enjoy music and a lively atmosphere.

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 Salzburg or Wernigerode Better for Music?

Salzburg
Wernigerode

Salzburg is very popular for live music. However, Wernigerode is not a live music destination.

Salzburg is a world class music destination. Although most people think of Mozart and the Sound of Music when they think of this city, there are also many music festivals, including the famous Salzburg Music Festival, as well as concert venues and an independent music scene that is excellent.

Wernigerode is not a live music destination.


Is Salzburg or Wernigerode Better for its Old Town?

Salzburg
Wernigerode

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

Salzburg has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. This beautiful old town is filled with cafes, restaurants, and churches. You can enjoy local music performed by street performers as you soak in the atmosphere and the regular chime of the church bells really gives the city personality. There are also frequent markets and shops to explore.

The old town of Wernigerode is one of the most recognized in the world. 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 Salzburg or Wernigerode?

Salzburg
Wernigerode

Salzburg is very popular for shopping. However, Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Salzburg is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. The city's historic heart is filled with boutique shops, chocolate markets, and charming local vendors. It's fun to peruse the many shops that line the streets while you shop for local souvenirs.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Salzburg or Wernigerode Better for Families?

Salzburg
Wernigerode

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

Salzburg is known to be a very family-friendly place to visit. Kids who know the Sound of Music will enjoy visiting the setting of a number of scenes from the movie. There are even popular Sound of Music tours that take you to the gardens where they sang "Do Re Mi" and out of town to the church where Maria married the Captain. The city also offers Marionette Puppet shows, cooking classes, castles and more around town that everyone can enjoy.

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 Salzburg or Wernigerode Better for Couples?

Salzburg
Wernigerode

Salzburg 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, Salzburg has plenty to offer. The town offers a romantic setting with elaborate breakfasts, beautiful architecture, live shows, and plenty that couples can enjoy. You can simply wander around old town or explore the many gardens around town. Couples will also enjoy the concerts and music that the city is so famous for.

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 Salzburg or Wernigerode Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Salzburg
Wernigerode

Salzburg 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 Salzburg. This is a popular city to visit, so there are plenty of amenities for backpackers. If you want to save a little money, you can stay and eat outside of old town where the prices are a little less.

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 Salzburg or Wernigerode Better for Students?

Salzburg
Wernigerode

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

Students come from all over the world to visit Salzburg. International students appreciate the high quality of life, excellent educational opportunities and unique European setting that makes this city special. There are also a number of beautiful places just outside of town that you can explore, as well as many travel connections to other popular cities in Europe.

Wernigerode is not popular with students.


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

Salzburg
Wernigerode

Salzburg is a well-known place 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.

Visitors to Salzburg can move around easily with public transportation. Trolleys and buses make it easy to get around town.

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 Salzburg or Wernigerode a more walkable city?

Salzburg
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is terrific for its ease of walking around. Also, Salzburg is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its walkability.

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

Salzburg is very walkable. The old town is very walkable, but if you stay outside of the main tourist areas, you'll likely want to take a bus.

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

Should I spend more time in Wernigerode or Salzburg?

How long in Salzburg or Wernigerode?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Salzburg and Wernigerode. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Salzburg than in Wernigerode. Usually, 3-5 days is a good amount of time for Salzburg, and 1-3 days is enough time in Wernigerode.

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

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


  • How many days in Salzburg or Wernigerode? Ideal Length of Stay
    Salzburg 3-5 
    Wernigerode 1-3

One day in Salzburg or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the musical city of Salzburg. 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 Salzburg or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the beautiful destination of Salzburg. 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 Salzburg or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the musical city of Salzburg. 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 Salzburg or Wernigerode?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Salzburg. 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.

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 One Week (7-Day) Tours in Austria, The Best 10-Day Tours in Austria, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Wernigerode or Salzburg?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Salzburg is €155, 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 Salzburg and Wernigerode in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Salzburg 91
    Wernigerode 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Salzburg 182
    Wernigerode 148
Compare Hotels in Salzburg and Wernigerode

Looking for a hotel in Salzburg 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 Salzburg


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: Salzburg Hotel Prices and Wernigerode Hotel Prices.

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

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Salzburg

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Salzburg:

  • Private Transfer between Salzburg Airport and Salzburg City: $55
  • Salzburg Private Transfer from Salzburg Airport to City centre: $55
  • Salzburg Airport Private Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Private transfer: Salzburg Airport (SZG) to Salzburg : $65
  • Private transfer: Salzburg to Salzburg Airport (SZG): $65
  • Private Salzburg Airport luxury transfers to Salzburg city&Hotels: $65
  • Salzburg Airport (SZG) to SkiWelt - Arrival Private Transfer: $71
  • Salzburg Airport Transfers : Salzburg Airport SZG to Salzburg in Business Car: $90
  • Departure Private Transfers: Salzburg to Salzburg Airport SZG in Business Car: $91
  • Arrival Private Transfers: Salzburg Airport SZG to Salzburg in Business Car: $91
  • Salzburg Airport Transfers : Salzburg Airport SZG to Salzburg in Luxury Van: $93
  • Salzburg Airport Transfers : Salzburg to Salzburg Airport SZG in Luxury Van: $93

Is it cheaper to fly into Salzburg or Wernigerode?

Prices for flights to both Wernigerode and Salzburg 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
    Salzburg 41
    Wernigerode 45
Typical Food Prices in Salzburg

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


  • Lunch Salad
    9.00

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Salzburg

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

  • Cookies and Apple Strudel Cooking Class Including Lunch: $59
  • Austrian Apple Strudel Cooking Class including Lunch in Salzburg: $60
  • Best of Mozart Fortress Concert and Dinner: $81
  • Best of Mozart Concert and Dinner or VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg: $83
  • Mozart Concert with Dinner: $83
  • Dinner Cooking Class and Music: $84
  • Mozart Dinner Concert in Salzburg: $85
  • Dinner Cooking Class - Prezels, Dumplings, Apple Strudel & Music: $86
  • Dinner and Classical Concert at Mirabell Palace: $94
  • Cruise, Dinner & Fortress Concert: $106
  • Mozart Concert and Dinner or VIP Dinner at Fortress Salzburg with River Cruise: $111
  • Best of Mozart Concert and GOLDEN VIP Dinner at Fortress Hohensalzburg: $133

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.
    Salzburg 30
    Wernigerode 28

Tours and Activities in Salzburg

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Cathedral Entry Ticket with Audio Guide Option: $5.35
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.41
  • Salzburg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.54
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • Sound of Music Sightseeing Walk with Audio Guide: $6.99
  • A taste of An audio tour through the birthplace of Mozart: $7.47
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $8.02
  • Mirabell Palace and Surroundings Audio Tour: $8.52
  • Salzburg Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.00
  • Salzburg Cathedral: Guided Tour with Entry Ticket: $9.62
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Salzburg 26
    Wernigerode 21
Typical Alcohol Prices in Salzburg

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for alcohol and nightlife costs in Salzburg:


  • Beer
    3.70

Sample the Local Flavors in Salzburg

Here are a few nightlife and alcohol tours and activities from local tour providers in Salzburg:

  • Stiegl Brewery Museum Entry Ticket & Beer Tasting: $16
  • Stiegl Brewery Tour with Beer Tasting: $24
  • Guided Wine Tasting in a Hidden Wine Bar: $36
  • Private Austrian Wine Tasting with a Pro-Sommelière: $185


When comparing the travel costs between Salzburg and Wernigerode, we can see that Salzburg 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 Salzburg Expensive? and Is Wernigerode Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Salzburg or Wernigerode?

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

Both Wernigerode and Salzburg are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Salzburg for the music scene 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.

In the summer, Salzburg is around the same temperature as Wernigerode. Typically, the summer temperatures in Salzburg in July average around 20°C (68°F), and Wernigerode averages at about 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Wernigerode. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Salzburg. Salzburg usually receives more sunshine than Wernigerode during summer. Salzburg gets 227 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 201 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Salzburg gets 91 mm (3.6 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Salzburg 20°C (68°F) 
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Salzburg or Wernigerode in the Autumn?

Both Wernigerode and Salzburg during the autumn are popular places to visit. The autumn months attract visitors to Salzburg because of the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, the small town atmosphere are the main draw to Wernigerode this time of year.

In October, Salzburg is generally around the same temperature as Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Salzburg average around 11°C (52°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

In the autumn, Salzburg often gets less sunshine than Wernigerode. Salzburg gets 108 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 120 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in October than Wernigerode. Salzburg gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Salzburg 11°C (52°F) 
    Wernigerode 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Salzburg or Wernigerode in the Winter?

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

Be prepared for some very cold days in Wernigerode. It's quite cold in Salzburg in the winter. Salzburg is much colder than Wernigerode in the winter. The daily temperature in Salzburg averages around -0°C (31°F) in January, and Wernigerode fluctuates around 2°C (35°F).

Salzburg usually receives less sunshine than Wernigerode during winter. Salzburg gets 44 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Salzburg usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Salzburg gets 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Salzburg -0°C (31°F) 
    Wernigerode 2°C (35°F)

Should I visit Salzburg or Wernigerode in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Salzburg as well as Wernigerode. Many travelers come to Salzburg for the natural beauty. Also, many visitors come to Wernigerode in the spring for the small town charm.

In the spring, Salzburg is a little warmer than Wernigerode. Typically, the spring temperatures in Salzburg in April average around 11°C (51°F), and Wernigerode averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Salzburg often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Wernigerode. Salzburg gets 155 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 150 hours of full sun.

Salzburg usually gets more rain in April than Wernigerode. Salzburg gets 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Salzburg 11°C (51°F) 
    Wernigerode 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Wernigerode and Salzburg

Salzburg Wernigerode
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan -0°C (31°F) 56 mm (2.2 in) 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 2°C (36°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 6°C (43°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 11°C (51°F) 55 mm (2.2 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 15°C (59°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 18°C (65°F) 92 mm (3.6 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 20°C (68°F) 91 mm (3.6 in) 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 19°C (67°F) 93 mm (3.6 in) 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 16°C (61°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 5°C (42°F) 59 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 1°C (35°F) 64 mm (2.5 in) 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)