A Travel Price Comparison for Germany Wernigerode vs. Kiel for Attractions, Families, Couples, and Food

Should you visit Wernigerode or Kiel?

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

Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a charming, quaint, and cute town. It also offers plenty of small town charm and also has plenty of sights and activities. And you can't forget about the food and museums.

Kiel

Kiel is a waterfront, maritime, and authentic city. Since it's a large city, you'll find plenty of things to do. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Wernigerode and Kiel: Pros and Cons

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
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Popular beach
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for students
Things to Consider
  • Less popular with backpackers
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Wernigerode or Kiel?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Kiel. Although Wernigerode and Kiel are popular destinations, Kiel has more sights and attractions for tourists. Kiel is very popular for its nightlife, beaches, shopping, and big city activities, while Wernigerode attracts visitors for its museums, historical sights, and small town charm. Wernigerode is more touristy than Kiel and is known for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle. Kiel is famous for its maritime history and its role as the host of the Schleswig-Holstein Music Festival. It is also well known for The Kiel Castle.

How is Wernigerode different from Kiel?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Wernigerode
Kiel

Wernigerode is well known for its museums and landmarks. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its historical sights.

Wernigerode offers many unique museums, sights, and landmarks that will make for a memorable trip. 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.

If you're looking for an educational opportunity, there are a decent number of museums and historical sights around Kiel. You'll find museums and landmarks that focus on the city's maritime past. These include Submarine U-995, the Naval Memorial, Schifffahrtsmuseum Kiel, and Leuchtturm Bülk.


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

Wernigerode
Kiel

Both Wernigerode and Kiel offer nice 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.

Kiel has a delicious restaurant scene that relies on local flavors. The local cuisine, Schleswig-Holstein cuisine, is similar to much of Germany in that the dishes are hearty and filling. There are many British and Scandenavian influences. Local dishes that you should try include Kieler Sprotte (herring-like fish), Schnüüsch (veggie stew), and Mehlbüdel (bread dumpling with pork belly)

Is Wernigerode or Kiel Better for Nightlife?

Wernigerode
Kiel

Kiel 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 Kiel. The nightlife scene is low key and relaxing. You can sip a cocktail at a trendy bar or enjoy a beer on a floating beach bar.

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 Kiel Better for Beaches?

Wernigerode
Kiel

Kiel is very good for its beaches. However, Wernigerode is not a beach destination.

Many people head to Kiel to enjoy the beach. The city has several sandy beaches with coastal dunes and a family-friendly atmosphere.

Wernigerode is not a beach destination.


Is Wernigerode or Kiel Better for its Old Town?

Wernigerode
Kiel

Wernigerode is a must-visit destination for its old town. However, Kiel does not have a historic old town.

The rich history of Wernigerode can be explored in its historical center. If you're looking for an almost flawless old town with charm and few imperfections, then this is your place.

Kiel does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Wernigerode or Kiel?

Wernigerode
Kiel

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

Kiel is a great destination for shopping. There's a mix of retail shopping centers and pedestrian shopping streets like Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Wernigerode or Kiel Better for Families?

Wernigerode
Kiel

Wernigerode is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its kid-friendly activities.

Wernigerode is a very kid-friendly town. 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.

Kiel offers lots of family activities. The U-Boot U 995 is a museum on an actual submarine. Kids will love exploring this unique setting. The Kiel Botanical Gardens is another beautiful and fun place to explore. Also make sure you check out the city's aquarium, the Zoologisches Museum, and Computermuseum der Fachhochschule Kiel.


Is Wernigerode or Kiel Better for Couples?

Wernigerode
Kiel

Wernigerode is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for couples.

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.

Kiel is a good town for couples to visit. The old port city sits along Germany’s Baltic Sea and couples can enjoy learning about the city's maritime past and shopping along the shopping streets of Holstenstrasse and Dänische Strasse.

Is Wernigerode or Kiel Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wernigerode
Kiel

Wernigerode is a popular place for backpackers. However, Kiel is not particularly known for backpackers and budget travelers.

Plenty of budget travelers 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.

Kiel is a challenging destination for budget travelers and backpackers due to the higher prices. While it's not on the main backpacker circuit, there is a hostel or two in town.

Is Wernigerode or Kiel Better for Students?

Wernigerode
Kiel

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

Kiel is a good city to visit for students. Students can enjoy the city's beaches and lively nightlife scene.

Wernigerode is not popular with students.


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

Wernigerode
Kiel

Wernigerode is a popular place for its public transit. However, Kiel is not particularly known for times when you don't have a car.

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.

Public transit is mostly limited in Kiel. There is a bus system around town.

Is Wernigerode or Kiel a more walkable city?

Wernigerode
Kiel

Wernigerode is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Kiel is still popular, but not quite as popular for its ease of walking around.

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

Kiel is a somewhat walkable town. Some parts of Kiel are more walkable than others.

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

Should I spend more time in Kiel or Wernigerode?

How long in Wernigerode or Kiel?

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

Families should spend more time in Wernigerode than Kiel. 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 Kiel. 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 Wernigerode than Kiel 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 Wernigerode.


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

One day in Wernigerode or Kiel?

Wernigerode is a small town where visitors enjoy the museums and food. Visiting the old town is also a must. Take your pick from the many activities offered here. One day is usually enough time to experience most activities.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife and food when visiting the authentic city of Kiel. 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 Kiel?

Wernigerode is a fun place to experience. If you have a weekend, this is a great place to go. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. A weekend is often enough time to do most activities. The entire region has so many activities, and you'll want time to do everything.

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the maritime destination of Kiel. 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 Kiel?

Wernigerode is a small town, so you can explore the area with less time. This town offers something for everyone. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. Five days is plenty of time to see everything, even with extra days to spare.

The off-the-beaten-path city of Kiel 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 Kiel?

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. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel. One week 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.

Many people enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting Kiel. 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.


Which place is cheaper, Kiel 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 Kiel is €138. 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 Kiel in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wernigerode 74
    Kiel 67
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wernigerode 148
    Kiel 134
Compare Hotels in Wernigerode and Kiel

Looking for a hotel in Wernigerode or Kiel? 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 Kiel


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 Kiel Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wernigerode 19
    Kiel 54

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Kiel

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Kiel:

  • Private Transfer from Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg city: $78
  • Private Transfer from Ostseekai Kiel Port to Hamburg Airport: $79
  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg Airport (HAM) - Departure Private Transfer: $117
  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $118
  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port to Hamburg hotels - Round-Trip Private Transfer : $234
  • Ostseekai Kiel Cruise Port: Private Transfer to Hamburg: $642

Is it cheaper to fly into Wernigerode or Kiel?

Prices for flights to both Kiel 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
    Kiel 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
    Kiel 19

Tours and Activities in Kiel

Here are a few actual costs in Kiel for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • Lübeck Scavenger Hunt and Best Landmarks Self-Guided Tour: $6.51
  • Laboe Naval Memorial: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Lindau Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $11
  • Kiel Self-Guided Audio Tour: Explore this Historic Port: $12
  • Kiel's Historical Port: A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $12
  • SEA LIFE Timmendorfer Strand Admission Ticket: $16
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $21
  • City Sightseeing Kiel Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $22
  • Lübeck stories - an exciting scavenger hunt tour: $34
  • Kiel Crime Experience: self-guided crime tour: $42
  • Murder Crime Game Self-Guided Interactive Tour: $73
  • Private Walking Tour of Kiel: $97

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wernigerode 21
    Kiel 12


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


Which is Bigger, Wernigerode or Kiel?

Kiel has a larger population, and is about 7 times larger than the population of Wernigerode. When comparing the sizes of Wernigerode and Kiel, 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 Kiel?

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 Kiel in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Wernigerode and Kiel. 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 Kiel because of the beaches, the city activities, and the family-friendly experiences.

In the summer, Wernigerode is a little warmer than Kiel. Typically, the summer temperatures in Wernigerode in July average around 19°C (65°F), and Kiel averages at about 16°C (61°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Kiel this time of the year. In Wernigerode, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wernigerode usually receives less sunshine than Kiel during summer. Wernigerode gets 201 hours of sunny skies, while Kiel receives 219 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Wernigerode usually receives less rain than Kiel. Wernigerode gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 88 mm (3.4 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F) 
    Kiel 16°C (61°F)

Should I visit Wernigerode or Kiel in the Autumn?

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

In October, Wernigerode is generally a little warmer than Kiel. Daily temperatures in Wernigerode average around 11°C (52°F), and Kiel fluctuates around 10°C (50°F).

In the autumn, Wernigerode often gets more sunshine than Kiel. Wernigerode gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kiel receives 102 hours of full sun.

Wernigerode usually gets less rain in October than Kiel. Wernigerode gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 65 mm (2.6 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Wernigerode 11°C (52°F) 
    Kiel 10°C (50°F)

Should I visit Wernigerode or Kiel in the Winter?

Both Kiel 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 Kiel for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Be prepared for some very cold days in Kiel. It's quite cold in Wernigerode in the winter. Wernigerode is much warmer than Kiel in the winter. The daily temperature in Wernigerode averages around 2°C (35°F) in January, and Kiel fluctuates around 0°C (33°F).

Wernigerode usually receives more sunshine than Kiel during winter. Wernigerode gets 60 hours of sunny skies, while Kiel receives 39 hours of full sun in the winter.

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


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Wernigerode 2°C (35°F) 
    Kiel 0°C (33°F)

Should I visit Wernigerode or Kiel in the Spring?

Both Kiel 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 Kiel in the spring for the beaches and the activities around the city.

In the spring, Wernigerode is a little warmer than Kiel. Typically, the spring temperatures in Wernigerode in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Kiel averages at about 7°C (44°F).

In the spring, Wernigerode often gets less sunshine than Kiel. Wernigerode gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Kiel receives 171 hours of full sun.

Wernigerode usually gets around the same amount of rain in April as Kiel. Wernigerode gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Kiel receives 49 mm (1.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Wernigerode 9°C (48°F) 
    Kiel 7°C (44°F)

Typical Weather for Kiel and Wernigerode

Wernigerode Kiel
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 0°C (33°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 2°C (36°F) 36 mm (1.4 in) 1°C (34°F) 37 mm (1.5 in)
Mar 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in) 3°C (38°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 7°C (44°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
May 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 11°C (53°F) 53 mm (2.1 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 15°C (59°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Jul 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in) 16°C (61°F) 88 mm (3.4 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 16°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in) 14°C (56°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 10°C (50°F) 65 mm (2.6 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 82 mm (3.2 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 2°C (35°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)