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

Should you visit Thessaloniki or Wernigerode?

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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Wernigerode? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki is a vibrant, high energy, and bustling city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Wernigerode

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

Thessaloniki 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
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less walkable
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife


Is there more to do in Thessaloniki or Wernigerode?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Thessaloniki. Although Thessaloniki and Wernigerode are popular destinations, Thessaloniki has more sights and attractions for tourists. Thessaloniki 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. Thessaloniki is famous for its many archeological sights, its large young population, and its great transportation connections. It is also well known for The Monument of Rotonda. Wernigerode is famous for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle.

How is Thessaloniki different from Wernigerode?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Thessaloniki
Wernigerode

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

Thessaloniki offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. There are a huge number of historic and archeological sights in the city. These include the Rotunda of Galerius, the White Tower, the Church of Agios Dimitrios, and the Arch of Galerius.

Many visitors head to Wernigerode specifically to visit some of its top-rated museums and other sights. In addition to its beautiful old town, the highlight of a visit to this town is exploring the Wernigerode Castle. Other attractions include the Museum für Luftfahrt und Technik and the Miniaturenpark.


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

Thessaloniki
Wernigerode

Thessaloniki 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, Thessaloniki makes for a great culinary experience. There's a huge culinary scene in the city, and you'll find everything from fun street food options to traditional tavernas and even some great international restaurants.

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 Thessaloniki or Wernigerode Better for Nightlife?

Thessaloniki
Wernigerode

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

Thessaloniki offers plenty to do in the evening. It's the second largest city in Greece, and it has large student and tourist populations, so the nightlife scene is among the best in Greece. There are clubs, bars, and lounges that stay busy late into the night.

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 Thessaloniki or Wernigerode Better for Beaches?

Thessaloniki
Wernigerode

Thessaloniki is a moderate city for its beaches. However, Wernigerode is not a beach destination.

Thessaloniki is a good spot to see the beach. Although the city's not known for its beaches, there are some places where you can relax by the water, particularly if you're willing to get a bit out of town.

Wernigerode is not a beach destination.


Is Thessaloniki or Wernigerode Better for its Old Town?

Thessaloniki
Wernigerode

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

Thessaloniki does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Thessaloniki or Wernigerode?

Thessaloniki
Wernigerode

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

Thessaloniki is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There are shopping streets as well as large malls and shopping centers. You'll find everything from fashion, jewelry, and handicrafts to most European and international brands.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Thessaloniki or Wernigerode Better for Families?

Thessaloniki
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is an excellent place to visit for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki. The port city has a number of museums and attractions for kids including Dinosaur Park, the Noesis Science and Technology Museum, and the water park known as Waterland. There's also the fascinating Kapani Market that is fun to explore.


Is Thessaloniki or Wernigerode Better for Couples?

Thessaloniki
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is an excellent place to visit for its romantic activities. Also, Thessaloniki is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for couples.

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.

Thessaloniki is a good city for couples to visit. It's a bustling city that is filled with history and excellent restaurants. Couples who enjoy history and fun cities will appreciate a visit here.

Is Thessaloniki or Wernigerode Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Thessaloniki
Wernigerode

Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki. There's no shortage of hostels in this city, and you'll find plenty of backpackers to hang out with.

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 Thessaloniki or Wernigerode Better for Students?

Thessaloniki
Wernigerode

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

Thessaloniki is very popular with students. There's a large student population in the city and you'll find a vibrant nightlife scene, easy transportation options, and a reasonable cost of living.

Wernigerode is not popular with students.


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

Thessaloniki
Wernigerode

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

Thessaloniki has some public transit options. There is a comprehensive bus system that connects most of the city and its suburbs.

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 Thessaloniki or Wernigerode a more walkable city?

Thessaloniki
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a world-class destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Thessaloniki 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.

Thessaloniki is a somewhat walkable city. You can explore much of the city center on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Wernigerode or Thessaloniki?

How long in Thessaloniki or Wernigerode?

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

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

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


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

One day in Thessaloniki or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the vibrant city of Thessaloniki. 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. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. The length of your ideal trip is an individual decision. In one day, you should have a good grasp of this town.


A weekend in Thessaloniki or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the high energy destination of Thessaloniki. 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 fun place to experience. Visiting the old town is also a must. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. It will give you the chance to have new experiences. So, a weekend is just the right amount of time to spend here.

Five days in Thessaloniki or Wernigerode?

The high energy city of Thessaloniki offers shopping and museums. 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 you can explore the area with less time. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days.

A week in Thessaloniki or Wernigerode?

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

Wernigerode is a popular place to visit. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. One week may feel like too much time unless you plan to do a lot of relaxing. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


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


Which place is cheaper, Wernigerode or Thessaloniki?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Thessaloniki is €134, 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 Thessaloniki and Wernigerode in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Thessaloniki 79
    Wernigerode 74
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Thessaloniki 158
    Wernigerode 148
Compare Hotels in Thessaloniki and Wernigerode

Looking for a hotel in Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki


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: Thessaloniki Hotel Prices and Wernigerode Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Thessaloniki 13
    Wernigerode 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Thessaloniki

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

  • Bus Transfer to/from Kavala: $18
  • Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) to Thessaloniki - Arrival Transfer: $21
  • Thessaloniki to Thessaloniki Airport (SKG) - Departure Transfer: $21
  • One Way Private Transfer SKG Airport to / from Thessaloniki City Center: $24
  • Thessaloniki Airport Private Transfer Service: $32
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki Airport to Thessaloniki Port: $41
  • Private Transfer from Thessaloniki hotels to Thessaloniki Port: $41
  • Thessaloniki Airport or Cruise Port Private Departure Transfer: $44
  • Thessaloniki Airport - Sani Transfer: $81
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Portes Lithos Luxury Resort Private Transfer: $82
  • Thessaloniki Airport to Ikos Oceania Hotel Private Transfer: $87
  • Private transfer to IKOS OLIVIA: $87

Is it cheaper to fly into Thessaloniki or Wernigerode?

Prices for flights to both Wernigerode and Thessaloniki 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
    Thessaloniki 42
    Wernigerode 45

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Thessaloniki

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

  • Open Market Food Tour with Tasting: $48
  • Walking Open Market Food Tour and Tasting: $49
  • Cooking & Dining Experience with Greek Family: $63
  • Guided Food Tour: $70
  • Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $71
  • Private Walking Tour Gastronomic Food Tour in Thessaloniki: $87
  • Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local: $95
  • Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour: $95
  • Greek Cooking Class, Market Visit and Lunch: $95
  • Traditional Greek Food Tour With A Local: $97
  • Greek Ouzo and Meze Food Tour: $97
  • Greek Cooking Class, Market visit and Lunch: $97

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.
    Thessaloniki 26
    Wernigerode 28

Tours and Activities in Thessaloniki

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

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.95
  • Self-Guided Highlights Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.95
  • White Tower Self-Guided Audio Tour: $8.54
  • Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour & Narrative: $11
  • Selfie Museum Entry Ticket: $11
  • Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Museum of Illusions Admission Ticket: $12
  • Thessaloniki Self-Guided Game & Tour: $12
  • Byzantine Museum E-Ticket with Audio Tour: $13
  • E-ticket to Museum of Byzantine Culture with Audio Tour : $13
  • Thessaloniki Hop-on Hop-off Sightseeing Bus Tour: $17

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Thessaloniki 15
    Wernigerode 21

Sample the Local Flavors in Thessaloniki

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

  • Friday Night Bar Crawl in Thessaloniki: $25
  • From Pella-Edessa wine tasting: $64
  • Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers: $81
  • Thessaloniki Small-Group Wine Tasting Tour with Appetizers: $83
  • Winery Visit with Wine Tasting Experience: $91
  • Wine Tasting Experience from Thessaloniki: $93
  • Thessaloniki to Naoussa, Wine Tasting Tour – Private Day Trip: $207


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


Which is Bigger, Thessaloniki or Wernigerode?

Thessaloniki has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Wernigerode. When comparing the sizes of Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki 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 Thessaloniki or Wernigerode in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Thessaloniki as well as Wernigerode. The beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Thessaloniki this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Wernigerode for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 25°C (77°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 Thessaloniki this time of the year. In the summer, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Wernigerode. Thessaloniki gets 327 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 201 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in July than Wernigerode. Thessaloniki gets 26 mm (1 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Thessaloniki 25°C (77°F) 
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Wernigerode in the Autumn?

Both Wernigerode and Thessaloniki are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Thessaloniki for the city's sights and attractions and the shopping scene. Also, many visitors come to Wernigerode in the autumn for the small town atmosphere.

Thessaloniki is a little warmer than Wernigerode in the autumn. The daily temperature in Thessaloniki averages around 16°C (61°F) in October, and Wernigerode fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Wernigerode during autumn. Thessaloniki gets 159 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 120 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Thessaloniki usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Thessaloniki gets 41 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Wernigerode in the Winter?

Both Wernigerode and Thessaloniki during the winter are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Thessaloniki in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine. Furthermore, most visitors come to Wernigerode for the museums and the cuisine during these months.

Wernigerode can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Thessaloniki is much warmer than Wernigerode. Typically, the winter temperatures in Thessaloniki in January average around 5°C (41°F), and Wernigerode averages at about 2°C (35°F).

In the winter, Thessaloniki often gets more sunshine than Wernigerode. Thessaloniki gets 101 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Wernigerode receives 60 hours of full sun.

Thessaloniki usually gets less rain in January than Wernigerode. Thessaloniki gets 37 mm (1.5 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


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

Should I visit Thessaloniki or Wernigerode in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Thessaloniki and Wernigerode. Most visitors come to Thessaloniki for the beaches and the activities around the city during these months. Furthermore, the spring months attract visitors to Wernigerode because of the small town charm.

In April, Thessaloniki is generally a little warmer than Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Thessaloniki average around 13°C (56°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

Thessaloniki usually receives more sunshine than Wernigerode during spring. Thessaloniki gets 196 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 150 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Thessaloniki usually receives less rain than Wernigerode. Thessaloniki gets 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Thessaloniki 13°C (56°F) 
    Wernigerode 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Wernigerode and Thessaloniki

Thessaloniki Wernigerode
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 5°C (41°F) 37 mm (1.5 in) 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 7°C (44°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 2°C (36°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 9°C (49°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 13°C (56°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 18°C (65°F) 44 mm (1.7 in) 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 23°C (73°F) 32 mm (1.3 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 25°C (77°F) 26 mm (1 in) 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 25°C (76°F) 21 mm (0.8 in) 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 21°C (70°F) 26 mm (1 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in)
Oct 16°C (61°F) 41 mm (1.6 in) 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 11°C (52°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 7°C (44°F) 53 mm (2.1 in) 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)