A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Wernigerode vs. Novalja for Nightlife, Backpackers, Families, and Couples

Should you visit Wernigerode or Novalja?

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 Novalja 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.

Novalja

Novalja is a wild, energetic, and backpacker-filled town. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for nightlife and beaches.

Wernigerode and Novalja: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Scenic old town
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Very walkable
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
  • Less popular with backpackers
Pros
  • Active nightlife
  • Nice resorts
  • Popular beach
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Impressive beauty
Things to Consider
  • Less museums and historical sights
  • Less family-friendly
  • Less walkable


Is there more to do in Wernigerode or Novalja?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Wernigerode. Although Wernigerode and Novalja are popular destinations, Wernigerode has more sights and attractions for tourists. Wernigerode is very popular for its museums, food, historical sights, and small town charm, while Novalja attracts visitors for its nightlife, resorts, beaches, shopping, and impressive beauty. Wernigerode is famous for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle. It is also well known for The Wernigerode Castle. Novalja is famous for its crazy beach parties and popularity with the young backpacker crowd.

How is Wernigerode different from Novalja?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Wernigerode
Novalja

Wernigerode is a great destination for its museums and landmarks. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options 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 to pass the time, head to a museum or historic sight in Novalja. It's a beach and party destination, not somewhere you go for museums or historical sights.


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

Wernigerode
Novalja

Wernigerode is a popular place for its restaurant scene. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options for its local flavors and cuisine.

Visitors will find a budding food and restaurant scene in Wernigerode. 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.

Novalja may not make the list for most foodies, but you'll find what you need while you're in town. You'll find a lot of places to grab a quick bite to eat or a cheap meal around town. There are pizzerias, fast food, and some nicer bistros to choose from.

Is Wernigerode or Novalja Better for Nightlife?

Wernigerode
Novalja

Novalja is very popular for nightlife. However, Wernigerode is not a good town for nightlife and partying.

Novalja is a party destination, and you'll find plenty of activity all night long. This is a party island, and you'll find most of the action around Zrce Beach, which is about a 20 minute drive from town. The party scene appeals to the young, backpacker crowd and there's live music, DJs, and parties that last well into the morning. Zrce Beach has a huge number of bars and clubs including three clubs that are listed on the Top 100 DJ's Magazine Best Clubs List.

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 Novalja Better for Resorts?

Wernigerode
Novalja

Novalja is a moderate town for its resorts. However, Wernigerode is not a resort destination.

Novalja has a few resort options worth checking out. Most of the accommodation is in the form of apartments or hostels. There are also some hotels on the island, but because the number is limited they can be quite expensive.

Wernigerode is not a resort destination.


Is Wernigerode or Novalja Better for Beaches?

Wernigerode
Novalja

Novalja is a well-known place for its beaches. However, Wernigerode is not a beach destination.

Novalja is a very popular place to visit for its beaches. You'll find a mix of beaches near town including hidden gems that feel remote and undiscovered as well as wild party beaches like the famed Zrce Beach. Many beaches are pebbly or have coarse sand with turquoise blue waters.

Wernigerode is not a beach destination.

Is Wernigerode or Novalja Better for its Old Town?

Wernigerode
Novalja

Wernigerode is very popular for its old town. However, Novalja does not have a historic 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.

Novalja does not have a historic old town.

Is the Shopping Better in Wernigerode or Novalja?

Wernigerode
Novalja

Novalja is not a good place to visit for shopping. However, Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Novalja has some shopping areas for those that seek them out. This isn't the place to go shopping for clothing or local items. You will find some beach and souvenir shops around town though.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.


Is Wernigerode or Novalja Better for Families?

Wernigerode
Novalja

Wernigerode is a great destination for its family-friendly activities. However, Novalja is a town with minimal options 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.

For families, Novalja is not always the best place to visit. While there are family-friendly places to visit like some beaches and waterparks, at its heart this is a party destination that is known for its wild parties and crazy crowds.

Is Wernigerode or Novalja Better for Couples?

Wernigerode
Novalja

Wernigerode is a great destination for its romantic activities. Also, Novalja 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.

Novalja is a good town for couples to visit. Stunning beaches, blue waters, and surreal landscapes make this a one-of-a-kind place to visit. But romance isn't on most people's minds, as this is first and foremost a party destination.

Is Wernigerode or Novalja Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wernigerode
Novalja

Novalja is very popular for backpackers. Also, Wernigerode is not as famous, but is still a good town to visit for backpackers and budget travelers.

Novalja is a mecca for backpackers and budget travelers. Famous for its wild parties that attract backpackers and young travelers, this island destination has become a hotspot for backpackers and party-goers. There are hostels around town that offer a cheap place to crash.

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 Novalja Better for Public Transit? Which Is Easier to Get Around Without a Car?

Wernigerode
Novalja

Both Wernigerode and Novalja offer nice 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.

Novalja has some public transit options. There are local buses around the island or you can rent a personal vehicle like a motorbike or scooter.

Is Wernigerode or Novalja a more walkable city?

Wernigerode
Novalja

Wernigerode is very popular for its high level of walkability. Also, Novalja 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.

Novalja is a somewhat walkable town. In town, you can reach most places on foot, but if you want to explore further you'll need to find another way to get around.

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

Should I spend more time in Novalja or Wernigerode?

How long in Wernigerode or Novalja?

It's fun to spend time in either Wernigerode or Novalja. Generally, people tend to spend more time in Novalja due to the larger number of activities and things to do. Usually, 1-3 days is a good amount of time for Wernigerode, and 2-4 days is enough time in Novalja.

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


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

One day in Wernigerode or Novalja?

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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the backpacker-filled town of Novalja. It's also a great beach destination, too. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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.


A weekend in Wernigerode or Novalja?

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.

Visitors enjoy the nightlife when visiting the wild destination of Novalja. It's a great spot for a beach vacation. 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 Novalja?

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 wild town of Novalja offers nightlife. You'll find plenty of activities on the beach. 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 Novalja?

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 nightlife when visiting Novalja. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most people come for the beaches. Most people visit for the nightlife. 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 2-Week Tours from Dubrovnik, and The Best 2-Week Tours from Split.


Which place is cheaper, Novalja 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 Novalja is €58. 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 Novalja in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wernigerode 74
    Novalja 31
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wernigerode 148
    Novalja 62
Compare Hotels in Wernigerode and Novalja

Looking for a hotel in Wernigerode or Novalja? 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 Novalja


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 Novalja Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wernigerode 19
    Novalja 12

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Novalja

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Novalja:

  • Private Transfer from Crikvenica to Rijeka Airport (RJK): $74
  • Zrce, Private Transfer to/from Zadar Airport: $170

Is it cheaper to fly into Wernigerode or Novalja?

Prices for flights to both Novalja 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
    Novalja 20
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
    Novalja 6.07

Tours and Activities in Novalja

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

  • Bungee Tower Ticket with Zrce Beach Panoramic Views: $32
  • From Svetojanj Bike Tour: $47
  • Standup Paddleboard Guided Tour: $47
  • From Kolan Bike Tour: $47
  • From Metajna/Pag Bay Guided Sea Kayaking Tour: $49
  • Zrce Booze Cruise - Novalja Boat Party: $52
  • Glowing Standup Paddleboard Guided Night Tour: $58
  • Pag Island Light-Up Kayak Night Tour: $62
  • Kayak and Via Ferrata Adventure: $71
  • Zrce Beach Bungee Jumping Experience: $74

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wernigerode 21
    Novalja 7.27


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Wernigerode and Novalja, we can see that Wernigerode is more expensive. And not only is Novalja much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Novalja would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Novalja 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 Novalja.

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


Which is Bigger, Wernigerode or Novalja?

Wernigerode has a larger population, and is about 20 times larger than the population of Novalja. When comparing the sizes of Wernigerode and Novalja, 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.