A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Wernigerode vs. Heidelberg for Old Town, Food, Nightlife, and Families

Should you visit Wernigerode or Heidelberg?

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

Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a fairytale-like, charming, and quaint town. With amazing attractions and sights, it's also a fun small town not to be missed. It's also popular because of the food and museums.

Heidelberg

Heidelberg is a charming, scenic, and character-filled town. You'll find world class beauty here as well. This is an attractive and quaint destination worth visiting as well. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Wernigerode and Heidelberg: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
  • Quaint atmosphere


Is there more to do in Wernigerode or Heidelberg?

Visitors will usually find more to do in Heidelberg than Wernigerode, as it offers more sights, attractions, and activities. Heidelberg is better known for its food, nightlife, shopping, impressive beauty, and quaint atmosphere, while Wernigerode is more popular for its museums and small town charm. Wernigerode is well known for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle. Heidelberg is well known for its picturesque beauty, romantic atmosphere, and its classic old town. Also, Heidelberg is famous for The Heidelberg Castle.

How is Wernigerode different from Heidelberg?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Wernigerode
Heidelberg

Wernigerode is a great town for its historical sights. However, Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around 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.

Heidelberg does not have museums and landmarks.


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

Wernigerode
Heidelberg

Heidelberg 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, Heidelberg makes for a great culinary experience. The old town is filled with local restaurants that offer an assortment of traditional dishes. The restaurants offer a mix of outdoor and indoor seating and classic dishes include saumagen, lewwerkneedl, and dampfnudeln.

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 Heidelberg Better for Nightlife?

Wernigerode
Heidelberg

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

Heidelberg offers plenty to do in the evening. As a university town, you'll find a very young population and many bars, pubs, and nightclubs where you can hang out.

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 Heidelberg Better for its Old Town?

Wernigerode
Heidelberg

Wernigerode and Heidelberg are both popular destinations with charming historical areas.

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.

The historic old town of Heidelberg is revered around the world. The charming old town, or Altstadt, is lined with cafes that spill out onto the street and churches with bells that chime hourly. The area is filled with activity and there are many shops, ice cream vendors, and restaurants to choose from.


Is the Shopping Better in Wernigerode or Heidelberg?

Wernigerode
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is very good for shopping. However, Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Heidelberg is a great destination for shopping. The pedestrian area is the best place to pass your time shopping. There are name brand stores mixed in with local independent shops which you'll mostly find on the side streets. Popular items to buy include wooden toys, Christmas decorations, and candy.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Wernigerode or Heidelberg Better for Families?

Wernigerode
Heidelberg

Wernigerode is a great town for its kid-friendly activities. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its family-friendly activities.

You'll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in Wernigerode. 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.

Heidelberg is a family-friendly place to visit. With its many ice cream shops, playgrounds, and impressive castle, this city makes a nice stop for families with kids. The restaurants usually have a kid's menu and there are a number of kid-friendly museums and activities.

Is Wernigerode or Heidelberg Better for Couples?

Wernigerode
Heidelberg

Both Wernigerode and Heidelberg are high quality destinations to visit as a couple.

Wernigerode is a very popular place to visit for couples. This fairytale town is something special with many beautiful buildings, a castle, and great restaurants that make for a romantic weekend.

Heidelberg makes for a fun place to visit for a couple. This beautiful city offers an impressive backdrop for a couple's getaway. The view from the castle looks out beautifully over the city and the old town has many excellent restaurants and activities that are great for couples.


Is Wernigerode or Heidelberg Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wernigerode
Heidelberg

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg. Prices are reasonable and there are a handful of hostels around town. As a university town, you can be assured there are plenty of fun activities and cheap places to eat.

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 Heidelberg Better for Students?

Wernigerode
Heidelberg

Heidelberg is very good for students. However, Wernigerode is not popular with students.

Heidelberg is a good town to visit for students. It is a beautiful student town with a lot of activities for young visitors. This is not the most popular study abroad destination, but it does have a lot to offer for those who visit.

Wernigerode is not popular with students.

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

Wernigerode
Heidelberg

Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg can move around easily with public transportation. There are trams and buses that connect the old town to the train station.

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 Heidelberg a more walkable city?

Wernigerode
Heidelberg

Wernigerode is an amazing town to visit for its ease of walking around. Also, Heidelberg is not as popular, but is still a nice town for its walkability.

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

Heidelberg is very walkable. The old town is particularly walkable.

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

Should I spend more time in Heidelberg or Wernigerode?

How long in Wernigerode or Heidelberg?

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

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

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


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

One day in Wernigerode or Heidelberg?

Wernigerode might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. While some people choose to spend more or less time in Wernigerode, one day is sufficent for most.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the lively town of Heidelberg. 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.

A weekend in Wernigerode or Heidelberg?

Even though Wernigerode is a small town, it has plenty of activities to choose from. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. It offers something for everyone. Many people spend a weekend here. In a weekend, you should have a good grasp of this town.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the energetic destination of Heidelberg. 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.


Five days in Wernigerode or Heidelberg?

Wernigerode, a popular town, is full of activities for travelers. Visiting the old town is also a must. Most people find that five days is more than enough time to see everything. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

The scenic town of Heidelberg offers shopping and nightlife. 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.

A week in Wernigerode or Heidelberg?

Wernigerode is a popular place that is full of things to see and experience. One week is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

Many people enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting Heidelberg. 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.


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.


Which place is cheaper, Heidelberg 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 Heidelberg is €142. 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 Heidelberg in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wernigerode 74
    Heidelberg 93
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wernigerode 148
    Heidelberg 186
Compare Hotels in Wernigerode and Heidelberg

Looking for a hotel in Wernigerode or Heidelberg? 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 Heidelberg


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 Heidelberg Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wernigerode 19
    Heidelberg 17

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Heidelberg

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

  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to Baden-Baden - Arrival Private Transfer: $23
  • Karlsruhe Airport (FKB) to BadenBaden Round-Trip Private Transfer: $46
  • Private Transfer from Badenweiler Thermal to Basel EuroAirport: $63
  • Private Transfer from Heidelberg City to Mannheim City by Van: $64
  • Airport transfer from Karlsruhe Airport to Baden-Baden: $104
  • One Way Private Transfer from Mannheim to Frankfurt : $250

Is it cheaper to fly into Wernigerode or Heidelberg?

Prices for flights to both Heidelberg 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
    Heidelberg 37
Typical Food Prices in Wernigerode

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


  • Dinner for Two
    22
  • Soda
    1.70

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Heidelberg

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

  • Heidelberg crime dinner to solve the mystery with a delicious 3-course menu: $64
  • Craft Beer and Street Food Tour: $596

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Wernigerode 28
    Heidelberg 11

Tours and Activities in Heidelberg

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Heidelberg.

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.20
  • Heidelberg's Altstadt: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.20
  • Heidelberg's Altstadt: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $5.99
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.38
  • Heidelberg Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.52
  • Pure experience: Original Black Forest farmer smoke tour: $6.52
  • City Exploration Game and Tour: $6.93
  • Heidelberg Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt & City Tour: $6.93
  • Complete Self-guided Audio Tour on your Phone: $8.51
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $9.32
  • Walking Tour with Audio Guide on App: $11
  • Heidelberg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wernigerode 21
    Heidelberg 17

Sample the Local Flavors in Heidelberg

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

  • Highlights of the romantic Black Forest & brewery, private tour: $293


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


Which is Bigger, Wernigerode or Heidelberg?

Heidelberg has a larger population, and is about 4 times larger than the population of Wernigerode. When comparing the sizes of Wernigerode and Heidelberg, 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 Heidelberg?

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 Heidelberg in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Wernigerode as well as Heidelberg. Many visitors come to Wernigerode in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Additionally, most visitors come to Heidelberg for the family-friendly experiences during these months.

In July, Wernigerode is generally around the same temperature as Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Wernigerode average around 19°C (65°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 21°C (69°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Heidelberg. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Wernigerode this time of the year. In the summer, Wernigerode often gets less sunshine than Heidelberg. Wernigerode gets 201 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 224 hours of full sun.

Wernigerode usually gets less rain in July than Heidelberg. Wernigerode gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 78 mm (3.1 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F) 
    Heidelberg 21°C (69°F)

Should I visit Wernigerode or Heidelberg in the Autumn?

Both Heidelberg and Wernigerode are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Most visitors come to Wernigerode for the small town atmosphere during these months. Also, the autumn months attract visitors to Heidelberg because of the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area.

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

Wernigerode usually receives more sunshine than Heidelberg during autumn. Wernigerode gets 120 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 102 hours of full sun in the autumn.

In October, Wernigerode usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Wernigerode gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Wernigerode 11°C (52°F) 
    Heidelberg 12°C (54°F)

Should I visit Wernigerode or Heidelberg in the Winter?

Both Heidelberg and Wernigerode during the winter are popular places to visit. The winter months attract visitors to Wernigerode because of the museums and the cuisine. Also, the shopping scene and the cuisine are the main draw to Heidelberg this time of year.

It's quite cold in Heidelberg in the winter. The weather in Wernigerode can be very cold. In the winter, Wernigerode is much colder than Heidelberg. Typically, the winter temperatures in Wernigerode in January average around 2°C (35°F), and Heidelberg averages at about 3°C (37°F).

In the winter, Wernigerode often gets more sunshine than Heidelberg. Wernigerode gets 60 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Heidelberg receives 38 hours of full sun.

Wernigerode usually gets less rain in January than Heidelberg. Wernigerode gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Wernigerode 2°C (35°F) 
    Heidelberg 3°C (37°F)

Should I visit Wernigerode or Heidelberg in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Wernigerode and Heidelberg. The small town charm are the main draw to Wernigerode this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Heidelberg for the natural beauty.

In April, Wernigerode is generally cooler than Heidelberg. Daily temperatures in Wernigerode average around 9°C (48°F), and Heidelberg fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

Wernigerode usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Heidelberg during spring. Wernigerode gets 150 hours of sunny skies, while Heidelberg receives 155 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Wernigerode usually receives less rain than Heidelberg. Wernigerode gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Heidelberg receives 57 mm (2.2 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Wernigerode 9°C (48°F) 
    Heidelberg 11°C (52°F)

Typical Weather for Heidelberg and Wernigerode

Wernigerode Heidelberg
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 3°C (37°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 4°C (39°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 11°C (52°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
May 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 16°C (60°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 19°C (65°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Jul 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in) 21°C (69°F) 78 mm (3.1 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 20°C (68°F) 70 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in) 17°C (63°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 12°C (54°F) 57 mm (2.2 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 7°C (44°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 4°C (38°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)