A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Wernigerode vs. Cologne for Old Town, Attractions, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Wernigerode or Cologne?

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 Cologne can help you decide which place is right for you.

Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a charming, quaint, and cute 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.

Cologne

Cologne is a vibrant, colorful, and fun city. It's a large city with plenty of activites for visitors as well. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Wernigerode and Cologne: Pros and Cons

Is there more to do in Wernigerode or Cologne?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Cologne than Wernigerode, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Cologne is better known for its nightlife, shopping, christmas markets, big city activities, and impressive beauty, while Wernigerode is more popular for its historical sights and small town charm. Wernigerode is well known for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle. Cologne is well known for its large and detailed cathedral, its festive Christmas markets, and its location along the Rhine River. Also, Cologne is famous for The Cologne Cathedral.

The Cologne Cathedral

How is Wernigerode different from Cologne?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Cologne 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 Cologne?

Both Wernigerode and Cologne have great 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 Cologne can be an interesting and educational experience. At the heart of the city is Cologne Cathedral, which is stunningly intricate and highlights High Gothic architecture. It is one of the largest cathedrals in Europe. Other famous sights around town include Cologne City Hall, the Wallraf-Richartz & Ludwig Museums, and Hohenzollern Bridge.

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

Both Wernigerode and Cologne offer notable local cuisine and restaurants.

Wernigerode offers number of good local restaurants to choose from. 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.

Cologne has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The food scene consists mostly of brewhouses and pubs, where you'll find local cuisine. There are also a number of international restaurants around town if you want something a little different. In particular, you'll find many Turkish kebab shops near the train station. Local dishes from Cologne include Halve Hahn (an open face sandwich), Hämmche (pork with sauerkraut or potatoes), and Mettbrütche (minced pork bread roll). For a sweet treat, there is no shortage of donut shops with decadently decorated toppings.

Is Wernigerode or Cologne Better for Nightlife?

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

Cologne offers plenty to do in the evening. Head to one of the many beerhalls to check out the local nightlife scene. Make sure you try the local beer, Kölsch. Some of the most popular places for night include Ona Mor, Pepe, and Engel & Weiss.

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 Wernigerode or Cologne Better for its Old Town?

Wernigerode is an unbeatable place for its historic old town charm. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historic old town.

With a famous historical old-town, Wernigerode offers plenty to see. If you're looking for an almost flawless old town with charm and few imperfections, then this is your place.

Cologne is a good destination for visiting its old town. The Old Town is large, but its mostly been rebuilt with modern buildings. There are plenty of shopping areas where you can buy name brand clothing or sample sweets.

Is the Shopping Better in Wernigerode or Cologne?

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

Cologne is an extremely popular place for shoppers. There is no shortage of clothing shops around Cologne. You'll find all of the major European chains with many souvenir shops mixed in. Schildergasse is a major shopping street in town, but there are also many shopping malls to choose from. For local markets, head to Wilhemplatz.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Wernigerode or Cologne Better for Christmas?

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas activities. However, Wernigerode does not offer Christmas activities.

Cologne is a world class destination during the Christmas season. Cologne is one of the top Christmas destinations in Germany. You'll find many different markets spread around town that offer ice skating, curling, warm drinks, and local dishes. Foodies will appreciate the many samplings of local holiday favorites while shoppers will be able to pick up gifts and Christmas decorations that are locally made.

Wernigerode does not offer Christmas activities.

Is Wernigerode or Cologne Better for Christmas Markets?

Cologne is very popular for its Christmas markets. However, Wernigerode does not offer Christmas markets.

Cologne has some of the best Christmas markets in the world. Cologne is one of the top Christmas market destinations in Germany. You'll find many different markets spread around town that offer ice skating, curling, warm drinks, and local dishes. Foodies will appreciate the many samplings of local holiday favorites while shoppers will be able to pick up gifts and Christmas decorations that are locally made.

Wernigerode does not offer Christmas markets.

Is Wernigerode or Cologne Better for Families?

You'll find great kid-friendly activities in either Wernigerode or Cologne.

Wernigerode is a very family-friendly place to visit. 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.

Because of its large number of kid-friendly activities, Cologne is very family-friendly. In addition to the stunning cathedral and impressive bridge, this city has many great playgrounds including Rheinpark, right across the river from old town. Kids who like high places will enjoy the view from the top of KölnTriangle. Popular kid-friendly museums in town include Odysseum and the Chocolate Museum. And if you have a day to spare, head to the indoor waterpark at Aqualand.

Is Wernigerode or Cologne Better for Couples?

Wernigerode is well known for couples. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for romance.

Couples visit Wernigerode frequently as it offers plenty of romantic activities. This fairytale town is something special with many beautiful buildings, a castle, and great restaurants that make for a romantic weekend.

Cologne is a nice destination for couples. The city has a number of activities that couples will enjoy such as walks along the river, dining at nice restaurants, and Rhein River cruises. Also make sure you put a lock on the Hohenzollern Bridge to declare your commitment to each other.

Is Wernigerode or Cologne Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Both Wernigerode and Cologne are notable destinations for backpackers.

Wernigerode is popular with backpackers and budget travelers. 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.

It's common for backpackers to visit Cologne. There are a few good hostels around town and many free sights that make this a budget-friendly destination for backpackers.

Is Wernigerode or Cologne Better for Students?

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

Cologne is very popular with students. The city is large enough to attract international students for all types of studies. It's also well connected to the German train system so it's easy to get out and explore the area.

Wernigerode is not popular with students.

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

Cologne 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.

Cologne has an effecient and thorough public transportation system which can take you anywhere in the city. KVB operates the system that includes trains, trams, and buses. The city is also easily connected to other nearby towns so it makes a great base for exploring the entire area.

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 Wernigerode or Cologne a more walkable city?

Wernigerode is an unbeatable place for its ease of walking around. Also, Cologne is still popular, but not quite as popular for its walkability.

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

Cologne is very walkable. If you stick to the Old Town and nearby neighborhoods, you'll be able to explore easily on foot.

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

Should I spend more time in Cologne or Wernigerode?

How long in Wernigerode or Cologne?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Wernigerode and Cologne. In our opinion, Cologne has more to see and do, so we recommend spending more time in Cologne than Wernigerode. However, 1-3 days is a good amount of time to spend in either destination.

Couples should spend more time in Wernigerode than Cologne. 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 Cologne 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 Cologne.

One day in Wernigerode or Cologne?

Wernigerode is a small town with plenty to do. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. This town offers something for everyone. This would be the perfect place to spend one day, as it has just the right amount of activities.

Cologne is a vibrant city where you can fill many days. One day should give you a good understanding of everything this city has to offer. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

A weekend in Wernigerode or Cologne?

Wernigerode might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. A weekend here is typical. Visiting the old town is also a must. A weekend is a great amount of time to relax and see the many things that Wernigerode has to offer.

Cologne is a vibrant big city where you can fill many days. 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.

Five days in Wernigerode or Cologne?

Wernigerode is a great place to explore. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Five days is more than enough time to enjoy everything. Take some day trips to nearby places to fill the extra days. Anyone can find something fun to do here.

The fun city of Cologne 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.

A week in Wernigerode or Cologne?

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wernigerode. Since Wernigerode is a small town, it's easily explored when your time is limited. 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Cologne. 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 Cultural Tours in Germany, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Germany.

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

Which is Bigger, Wernigerode or Cologne?

Cologne has a larger population, and is about 30 times larger than the population of Wernigerode. When comparing the sizes of Wernigerode and Cologne, 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 Cologne?

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 Wernigerode or Cologne in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Wernigerode and Cologne. Most visitors come to Wernigerode for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences during these months. Also, the summer months attract visitors to Cologne because of the city activities and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Wernigerode is generally around the same temperature as Cologne. Daily temperatures in Wernigerode average around 19°C (65°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 19°C (66°F).

In Wernigerode, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wernigerode usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during summer. Wernigerode gets 201 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 184 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Wernigerode usually receives less rain than Cologne. Wernigerode gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 80 mm (3.1 in) of rain each month for the summer.

Should I visit Wernigerode or Cologne in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Wernigerode as well as Cologne. The autumn months attract visitors to Wernigerode because of the small town atmosphere. Also, the city's sights and attractions, the shopping scene, and the natural beauty of the area are the main draw to Cologne this time of year.

Wernigerode is around the same temperature as Cologne in the autumn. The daily temperature in Wernigerode averages around 11°C (52°F) in October, and Cologne fluctuates around 12°C (54°F).

In the autumn, Wernigerode often gets more sunshine than Cologne. Wernigerode gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 104 hours of full sun.

Wernigerode usually gets less rain in October than Cologne. Wernigerode gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 54 mm (2.1 in) of rain this time of the year.

Should I visit Wernigerode or Cologne in the Winter?

Both Cologne and Wernigerode are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. The museums and the cuisine are the main draw to Wernigerode this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Cologne for the museums, the Christmas ambience, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Cologne. It's quite cold in Wernigerode in the winter. In the winter, Wernigerode is much colder than Cologne. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wernigerode in January average around 2°C (35°F), and Cologne averages at about 3°C (37°F).

Wernigerode usually receives more sunshine than Cologne during winter. Wernigerode gets 60 hours of sunny skies, while Cologne receives 43 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Wernigerode usually receives less rain than Cologne. Wernigerode gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 61 mm (2.4 in) of rain each month for the winter.

Should I visit Wernigerode or Cologne in the Spring?

Both Cologne and Wernigerode during the spring are popular places to visit. Many travelers come to Wernigerode for the small town charm. Furthermore, many visitors come to Cologne in the spring for the activities around the city and the natural beauty.

In April, Wernigerode is generally cooler than Cologne. Daily temperatures in Wernigerode average around 9°C (48°F), and Cologne fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the spring, Wernigerode often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Cologne. Wernigerode gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Cologne receives 152 hours of full sun.

Wernigerode usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Cologne. Wernigerode gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Cologne receives 55 mm (2.2 in) of rain this time of the year.

Typical Weather for Cologne and Wernigerode