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

Should you visit Wernigerode or Carcassonne?

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

Which city is more affordable and which is best for your travel style? If you're trying to figure out where to go next, comparing the travel costs between Wernigerode and Carcassonne can help you decide which place is right for you.

Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a fairytale-like, charming, and quaint town. Since it offers so much small town charm with a variety of activities, it attracts plenty of visitors, too. Other reasons to visit include food and museums.

Carcassonne

Carcassonne is a medieval, historical, and fairytale town. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for food and museums.

Wernigerode and Carcassonne: Pros and Cons

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


Is there more to do in Wernigerode or Carcassonne?

Tourists will generally find more to do in Wernigerode. Although Wernigerode and Carcassonne are both popular with visitors, Wernigerode has more sights, activities, and attractions for travelers. Wernigerode is more popular for its nightlife, historical sights, and small town charm, while Carcassonne is known for its food and impressive beauty. Wernigerode is popular for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle. It is also home to The Wernigerode Castle. Carcassonne is popular for its medieval history, walled fortifications, and well-known castle.

How is Wernigerode different from Carcassonne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

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

Wernigerode
Carcassonne

Both Wernigerode and Carcassonne have high quality landmarks and museums for visitors.

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.

With a variety of museums, monuments, and historical sights, a trip to Carcassonne can be an interesting and educational experience. The town is filled with medieval sights including the Château Comtal, the Basilica of Saints Nazarius and Celsus, and the Carcassonne Cathedral.


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

Wernigerode
Carcassonne

Carcassonne 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, Carcassonne makes for a great culinary experience. There are a number of local restaurants that serve regional specialties such as cassoulet. You can spend a few hours exploring the castle and then grab a delicious bite to eat.

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 Wernigerode or Carcassonne Better for Nightlife?

Wernigerode
Carcassonne

Wernigerode is a decent place to visit for nightlife. However, Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

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.

Carcassonne is not a destination with noteworthy nightlife.

Is Wernigerode or Carcassonne Better for its Old Town?

Wernigerode
Carcassonne

Wernigerode is very popular for its historic old town. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its old town.

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.

Many people head to Carcassonne to see the old town. The medieval walled city is seeped in history and filled with atmosphere. Cars are not allowed in town.


Is Wernigerode or Carcassonne Better for Families?

Wernigerode
Carcassonne

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

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.

You'll find plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Carcassonne. Kids who love castles will enjoy wandering the maze of rooms and getting lost in the medieval atmosphere.

Is Wernigerode or Carcassonne Better for Couples?

Wernigerode
Carcassonne

Wernigerode is a very popular place for romance. Also, Carcassonne is not quite as popular, but is fairly good for its romantic activities.

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.

Carcassonne makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. It's a medieval city with an impressive castle and walled fortifications. It's a uniquely European sight that is great for couples who enjoy history.

Is Wernigerode or Carcassonne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wernigerode
Carcassonne

Carcassonne 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 Carcassonne. There are interesting hostels in the area including a converted 17th century convent.

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

Wernigerode
Carcassonne

Both Wernigerode and Carcassonne offer good public transit options.

Wernigerode has a few 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.

Carcassonne has some public transit options. You can reach the town by train from Dijon, Lyon, Marseille, Toulouse, or Bordeaux and many people visit the town as a day trip.

Is Wernigerode or Carcassonne a more walkable city?

Wernigerode
Carcassonne

Wernigerode and Carcassonne both are first-rate when exploring on foot.

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

It's very easy to get around on foot in Carcassonne. Cars aren't allowed in the medieval city so it's best to explore on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Carcassonne or Wernigerode?

How long in Wernigerode or Carcassonne?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Wernigerode or Carcassonne to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Wernigerode than Carcassonne because of the number of activities and things to do in the area. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Wernigerode, and 1-2 days is enough time in Carcassonne.

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

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


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

One day in Wernigerode or Carcassonne?

Wernigerode is a small town with plenty to do. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and museums when visiting the fairytale town of Carcassonne. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this town has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.


A weekend in Wernigerode or Carcassonne?

Wernigerode might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Visitors enjoy the museums and food when visiting the medieval destination of Carcassonne. 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.

Five days in Wernigerode or Carcassonne?

Because Wernigerode is a small town, it's easy to explore in a short amount of time. 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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

The fairytale town of Carcassonne offers food 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.

A week in Wernigerode or Carcassonne?

Since Wernigerode is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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.

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


For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, The Best Adventure Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in France, and The Best Historical Tours in France.


Which place is cheaper, Carcassonne or Wernigerode?

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

The average daily cost (per person) in Wernigerode is €136, while the average daily cost in Carcassonne is €106. 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 Wernigerode and Carcassonne in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wernigerode 74
    Carcassonne 61
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wernigerode 148
    Carcassonne 122
Compare Hotels in Wernigerode and Carcassonne

Looking for a hotel in Wernigerode or Carcassonne? 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 Wernigerode


Hotels in Carcassonne


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: Wernigerode Hotel Prices and Carcassonne Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wernigerode 19
    Carcassonne 7.14

Is it cheaper to fly into Wernigerode or Carcassonne?

Prices for flights to both Carcassonne and Wernigerode 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
    Wernigerode 45
    Carcassonne 39
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.
    Wernigerode 28
    Carcassonne 14

Tours and Activities in Carcassonne

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

  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & Tour: $6.42
  • Castle and Ramparts Entry Ticket: $12
  • A Self-Guided Tour of Carcassonne’s Ancient Basilica: $20
  • Medieval Walls Self-Guided Smartphone App Tour: $20
  • Carcassonne 's Medieval Walls: A Self-Guided Tour: $20
  • Languedoc: Tour and Tasting at Domaine de Baronarques: $21
  • Unusual guided tour of Carcassonne at the time of the Builders: $22
  • Unusual Guided Tour of the Medieval City of Carcassonne: $22
  • Small group tour of the Cité de Carcassonne: $49
  • Complete Private Tour City and Castle of Carcassonne: $109
  • Cité de Private Guided Tour: $160

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wernigerode 21
    Carcassonne 13

Sample the Local Flavors in Carcassonne

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Carcassonne:

  • Wine tour Cathar country: $471


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Wernigerode and Carcassonne, we can see that Wernigerode is more expensive. And not only is Carcassonne much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Carcassonne would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Carcassonne 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 Wernigerode would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Wernigerode than you might in Carcassonne.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Wernigerode Expensive? and Is Carcassonne Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Wernigerode or Carcassonne?

Carcassonne has a larger population, and is about 44% larger than the population of Wernigerode. When comparing the sizes of Wernigerode and Carcassonne, 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 Wernigerode or Carcassonne?

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 Wernigerode or Carcassonne in the Summer?

Both Carcassonne and Wernigerode during the summer are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Wernigerode in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, most visitors come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months.

Wernigerode is cooler than Carcassonne in the summer. The daily temperature in Wernigerode averages around 19°C (65°F) in July, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

In Carcassonne, it's very sunny this time of the year. It's quite sunny in Wernigerode. In the summer, Wernigerode often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Wernigerode gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 275 hours of full sun.

Wernigerode usually gets more rain in July than Carcassonne. Wernigerode gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 17 mm (0.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F) 
    Carcassonne 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Wernigerode or Carcassonne in the Autumn?

The autumn attracts plenty of travelers to both Wernigerode and Carcassonne. Most visitors come to Wernigerode for the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Carcassonne because of the small town atmosphere and the natural beauty of the area.

In the autumn, Wernigerode is cooler than Carcassonne. Typically, the autumn temperatures in Wernigerode in October average around 11°C (52°F), and Carcassonne averages at about 17°C (62°F).

Wernigerode usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during autumn. Wernigerode gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 161 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Wernigerode usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Wernigerode gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 90 mm (3.5 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Wernigerode 11°C (52°F) 
    Carcassonne 17°C (62°F)

Should I visit Wernigerode or Carcassonne in the Winter?

The winter brings many poeple to Wernigerode as well as Carcassonne. The winter months attract visitors to Wernigerode because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Carcassonne this time of year.

The weather in Wernigerode can be very cold. In January, Wernigerode is generally much colder than Carcassonne. Daily temperatures in Wernigerode average around 2°C (35°F), and Carcassonne fluctuates around 8°C (47°F).

In the winter, Wernigerode often gets less sunshine than Carcassonne. Wernigerode gets 60 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Carcassonne receives 88 hours of full sun.

Wernigerode usually gets less rain in January than Carcassonne. Wernigerode gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Wernigerode 2°C (35°F) 
    Carcassonne 8°C (47°F)

Should I visit Wernigerode or Carcassonne in the Spring?

Both Carcassonne and Wernigerode are popular destinations to visit in the spring with plenty of activities. The small town charm are the main draw to Wernigerode this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Carcassonne for the small town charm and the natural beauty.

Wernigerode is much colder than Carcassonne in the spring. The daily temperature in Wernigerode averages around 9°C (48°F) in April, and Carcassonne fluctuates around 14°C (56°F).

Wernigerode usually receives less sunshine than Carcassonne during spring. Wernigerode gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Carcassonne receives 178 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Wernigerode usually receives less rain than Carcassonne. Wernigerode gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Carcassonne receives 56 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Wernigerode 9°C (48°F) 
    Carcassonne 14°C (56°F)

Typical Weather for Carcassonne and Wernigerode

Wernigerode Carcassonne
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 8°C (47°F) 51 mm (2 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 9°C (49°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 11°C (52°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 14°C (56°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)
May 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 17°C (63°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 21°C (70°F) 28 mm (1.1 in)
Jul 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in) 24°C (75°F) 17 mm (0.7 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 24°C (74°F) 32 mm (1.3 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in) 21°C (69°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 17°C (62°F) 90 mm (3.5 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 12°C (53°F) 59 mm (2.3 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 9°C (49°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)