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

Should you visit Wernigerode or Potsdam?

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

Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a quaint, cute, and quintessential 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.

Potsdam

Potsdam is a historic, accessible, and compact city. It's a very nice small town not to be missed. It's a gorgeous place to visit. It's also known for nightlife, food, and shopping.

Wernigerode and Potsdam: 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
  • Small town charm
Things to Consider
  • Less popular for nightlife
Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers


Is there more to do in Wernigerode or Potsdam?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Wernigerode. Although Wernigerode and Potsdam are popular destinations, Wernigerode has more sights and attractions for tourists. Wernigerode is very popular for its historical sights and small town charm, while Potsdam attracts visitors for its food, nightlife, shopping, and impressive beauty. Wernigerode is more touristy than Potsdam and is known for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle. It is also well known for The Wernigerode Castle. Potsdam is famous for its beautiful palaces, scenic town center, and accessibility to Berlin.

How is Wernigerode different from Potsdam?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

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

Wernigerode
Potsdam

Both Wernigerode and Potsdam have very good 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 Potsdam can be an interesting and educational experience. People visit this city for its high concentration of historic sights. The Renaissance Orangery Palace is a highlight of the visit for many travelers.


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

Wernigerode
Potsdam

Potsdam 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, Potsdam makes for a great culinary experience. You'll find a diverse restaurant scene, although the city is quite small. There are international restaurants as well as local venues where you can try regional specialties.

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 Potsdam Better for Nightlife?

Wernigerode
Potsdam

Potsdam 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 Potsdam. The city is not far from Berlin, so head in to Germany's nightlife capital for the most famous clubs and venues. In the town of Potsdam there are cocktail bars and breweries that make for a mellow and relaxed evening.

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 Potsdam Better for its Old Town?

Wernigerode
Potsdam

Wernigerode is very popular for its old town. However, Potsdam 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.

Potsdam does not have a historic old town.


Is the Shopping Better in Wernigerode or Potsdam?

Wernigerode
Potsdam

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

Potsdam is a great destination for shopping. There are plazas and shopping streets that have the standard chain stores as well as antique shops and other boutiques.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Wernigerode or Potsdam Better for Families?

Wernigerode
Potsdam

Wernigerode is well known for its family-friendly activities. Also, Potsdam 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.

Potsdam offers lots of family activities. There are a number of playgrounds around town as well as several beaches by lakes that are fun for kids. Another highlight for families is a visit to Babelsberg Film Studios.

Is Wernigerode or Potsdam Better for Couples?

Wernigerode
Potsdam

Wernigerode is well known for its romantic activities. Also, Potsdam 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.

Potsdam is a good town for couples to visit. Exploring the city and soaking up the sights is the best way for couples to enjoy their time. There are some nice hotels and restaurants in the area that make for a great date night.


Is Wernigerode or Potsdam Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Wernigerode
Potsdam

Both Wernigerode and Potsdam are nice 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 Potsdam. There are a handful of hostels to choose from in town.

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

Wernigerode
Potsdam

Potsdam 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 Potsdam can move around easily with public transportation. The city is well connected to Berlin by S-Bahn and bus.

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 Potsdam a more walkable city?

Wernigerode
Potsdam

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

Potsdam is a very walkable destination. It's a smaller, compact city that can mostly be explored on foot.


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

Should I spend more time in Potsdam or Wernigerode?

How long in Wernigerode or Potsdam?

You'll be able to find lots of things to do in Wernigerode or Potsdam to fill your time. Many travelers usually spend more of their time in Wernigerode than Potsdam 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 Potsdam.

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


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

One day in Wernigerode or Potsdam?

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 and food when visiting the historic city of Potsdam. 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 Potsdam?

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 food and shopping when visiting the accessible destination of Potsdam. 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 Potsdam?

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 accessible city of Potsdam 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 Potsdam?

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 Potsdam. 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 Family-Friendly Tours to Germany, The Best Hiking & Trekking Tours in Germany, The Best Historical Tours in Germany, and The Best One Week (7-Day) Tours in Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Potsdam 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 Potsdam is €111. 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 Potsdam in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Wernigerode 74
    Potsdam 60
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Wernigerode 148
    Potsdam 120
Compare Hotels in Wernigerode and Potsdam

Looking for a hotel in Wernigerode or Potsdam? 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 Potsdam


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 Potsdam Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Wernigerode 19
    Potsdam 28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Potsdam

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Potsdam:

  • Private Transfer from Potsdam to Berlin Tegel Airport: $166
  • Berlin Airport Departure Transfer from Potsdam Hotels: $180
  • Departure Airport Transfer from Potsdam Hotels to Berlin BER Airport: $180

Is it cheaper to fly into Wernigerode or Potsdam?

Prices for flights to both Potsdam 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
    Potsdam 31
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
    Potsdam 25

Tours and Activities in Potsdam

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

  • Brandenburg Scavenger Hunt and Sights Self-Guided Tour: $6.02
  • Guided Walking Tour of City Center: $8.75
  • Experience an exciting outdoor escape game via smartphone: $8.77
  • Villa Schöningen Entrance Ticket: $8.86
  • Sanssouci Park: A Self-Guide Audio Tour of the Garden's Landmarks: $9.99
  • Beautiful Baroque A Self-Guided Audio Tour: $9.99
  • Museum Barberini Entry Ticket: $11
  • Cecilienhof Castle Entrance Ticket: $13
  • Biosphäre Potsdam Entry Ticket: $16
  • In the Forbidden City - Potsdam Walking Tour: $20
  • City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $22
  • City Sightseeing Potsdam Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour: $23

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Wernigerode 21
    Potsdam 6.70


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

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


Which is Bigger, Wernigerode or Potsdam?

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

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 Potsdam in the Summer?

The summer attracts plenty of travelers to both Wernigerode and Potsdam. The summer months attract visitors to Wernigerode because of the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences. Also, the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences are the main draw to Potsdam this time of year.

In the summer, Wernigerode is around the same temperature as Potsdam. Typically, the summer temperatures in Wernigerode in July average around 19°C (65°F), and Potsdam averages at about 19°C (66°F).

People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Potsdam this time of the year. In Wernigerode, it's very sunny this time of the year. Wernigerode usually receives less sunshine than Potsdam during summer. Wernigerode gets 201 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 232 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Wernigerode usually receives around the same amount of rain as Potsdam. Wernigerode gets 50 mm (2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 52 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F) 
    Potsdam 19°C (66°F)

Should I visit Wernigerode or Potsdam in the Autumn?

The autumn brings many poeple to Wernigerode as well as Potsdam. The small town atmosphere are the main draw to Wernigerode this time of year. Also, many travelers come to Potsdam for the shopping scene, the small town atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the area.

In October, Wernigerode is generally around the same temperature as Potsdam. Daily temperatures in Wernigerode average around 11°C (52°F), and Potsdam fluctuates around 10°C (51°F).

In the autumn, Wernigerode often gets around the same amount of sunshine as Potsdam. Wernigerode gets 120 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 114 hours of full sun.

Wernigerode usually gets around the same amount of rain in October as Potsdam. Wernigerode gets 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 36 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Wernigerode 11°C (52°F) 
    Potsdam 10°C (51°F)

Should I visit Wernigerode or Potsdam in the Winter?

Both Potsdam and Wernigerode are popular destinations to visit in the winter with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Wernigerode for the museums and the cuisine. Also, many visitors come to Potsdam in the winter for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

Potsdam can get quite cold in the winter. Be prepared for some very cold days in Wernigerode. Wernigerode is much warmer than Potsdam in the winter. The daily temperature in Wernigerode averages around 2°C (35°F) in January, and Potsdam fluctuates around -0°C (31°F).

Wernigerode usually receives more sunshine than Potsdam during winter. Wernigerode gets 60 hours of sunny skies, while Potsdam receives 47 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Wernigerode usually receives less rain than Potsdam. Wernigerode gets 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain each month for the winter.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Wernigerode 2°C (35°F) 
    Potsdam -0°C (31°F)

Should I visit Wernigerode or Potsdam in the Spring?

Both Potsdam and Wernigerode during the spring are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Wernigerode in the spring for the small town charm. Furthermore, most visitors come to Potsdam for the small town charm and the natural beauty during these months.

In the spring, Wernigerode is around the same temperature as Potsdam. Typically, the spring temperatures in Wernigerode in April average around 9°C (48°F), and Potsdam averages at about 9°C (48°F).

In the spring, Wernigerode often gets less sunshine than Potsdam. Wernigerode gets 150 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Potsdam receives 168 hours of full sun.

Wernigerode usually gets more rain in April than Potsdam. Wernigerode gets 51 mm (2 in) of rain, while Potsdam receives 44 mm (1.7 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Wernigerode 9°C (48°F) 
    Potsdam 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Potsdam and Wernigerode

Wernigerode Potsdam
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) -0°C (31°F) 44 mm (1.7 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) 5°C (40°F) 39 mm (1.5 in)
Apr 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in) 9°C (48°F) 44 mm (1.7 in)
May 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in) 14°C (57°F) 61 mm (2.4 in)
Jun 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
Jul 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in) 19°C (66°F) 52 mm (2 in)
Aug 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Sep 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in) 15°C (59°F) 45 mm (1.8 in)
Oct 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in) 10°C (51°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in) 1°C (34°F) 56 mm (2.2 in)


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