A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Zurich vs. Wernigerode for Old Town, Attractions, Food, and Nightlife

Should you visit Zurich or Wernigerode?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Which city should you visit? Read on to compare the activities as well as the prices of travel for Zurich and Wernigerode. We'll break down costs for accommodation, food, transportation and more to help you learn more about these two destinations. Then, you can figure out if either of these two places are accessible based on your travel budget, schedule, and interests. So, let's dig into it.

Zurich

Zurich is a liberal, beautiful, and historic city. This is also a very beautiful destination which attracts plenty of visitors. It's also known for shopping, museums, and nightlife.

Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a fairytale-like, charming, and quaint 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.

Zurich and Wernigerode: Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Popular museums and historical sights
  • Active nightlife
  • Good music scene
  • Fun shopping
  • Family-friendly
  • Good for couples and romance
  • Good for backpackers and budget travelers
  • Good for students
  • Impressive beauty
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


Is there more to do in Zurich or Wernigerode?

Travelers will usually find more to do in Zurich. Although Zurich and Wernigerode are popular destinations, Zurich has more sights and attractions for tourists. Zurich is very popular for its food, nightlife, music, shopping, and impressive beauty, while Wernigerode attracts visitors for its small town charm. Zurich is famous for its beautiful setting on Lake Zurich as well as its cafes, restaurants, and high prices. It is also well known for The Grossmünster. Wernigerode is famous for its storybook setting and its beautiful hilltop castle.

How is Zurich different from Wernigerode?

Which is Better for a Holiday?

Let's take a look at the differences and similarities between Wernigerode and Zurich. Then, you can decide for yourself which place is better for your next trip.

Are the Museums and Historical Sights Better in Zurich or Wernigerode?

Zurich
Wernigerode

Plenty of people visit the high quality sights and museums in both Zurich and Wernigerode.

Visitors can fill many days exploring the museums and attractions around Zurich. Make sure you check out the Museum of Fine Arts, the Fraumünster, as well as the Swiss National Museum.

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.


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

Zurich
Wernigerode

Zurich 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, Zurich makes for a great culinary experience. Many restaurants have a strong German influence, but you'll also find traditional Swiss dishes such as cheese and chocolate fondue. There are also several Michelin star restaurants in town.

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 Zurich or Wernigerode Better for Nightlife?

Zurich
Wernigerode

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

Zurich offers plenty to do in the evening. The city has some of the best nightlife in Switzerland. There are a high concentration of bars and clubs around town, or you could check out one of the badis, which are pools that also act as bars during the summer months. They're usually located by the lake.

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 Zurich or Wernigerode Better for Music?

Zurich
Wernigerode

Zurich is a well-known place for live music. However, Wernigerode is not a live music destination.

The music scene in Zurich is very popular with diverse venues. There are many nightclubs that offer a variety of music types including electronic music, rock, and even reggae.

Wernigerode is not a live music destination.


Is Zurich or Wernigerode Better for its Old Town?

Zurich
Wernigerode

Visitors enjoy the first-rate old town areas in both Zurich and Wernigerode.

The rich history of Zurich can be explored in its historical center. The city has an old town that is split into two parts on each side of the Limmat River. The historic districts are filled with churches, squares, and charming areas that are fun to explore. Walking tours are the best way to explore the old town.

Wernigerode has a unique history which comes to life in its historic area. If you're looking for an almost flawless old town with charm and few imperfections, then this is your place.

Is the Shopping Better in Zurich or Wernigerode?

Zurich
Wernigerode

Zurich is very popular for shopping. However, Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Zurich is a famous shopping destination with plenty of stores. Visitors often buy chocolate, watches, and jewelry in this city. You'll find brand names and luxury items that are of high quality. Each neighborhood has its own character with stores ranging from traditional to international.

Wernigerode is not a noteworthy shopping destination.

Is Zurich or Wernigerode Better for Families?

Zurich
Wernigerode

Both Zurich and Wernigerode are high quality family-friendly destinations.

Zurich is a very kid-friendly city. It's a surprisingly mellow city with a relaxing vibe that makes it easy to explore with kids. Popular family-friendly activities include swimming in the Limmat River, sailing on Lake Zurich, and visiting Josefwiese park, which has a large playground.

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.


Is Zurich or Wernigerode Better for Couples?

Zurich
Wernigerode

Zurich and Wernigerode both high quality destinations for a couple.

Zurich is a very popular place to visit for couples. One of the most romantic experiences you can have in town is visiting the Zurich Thermal Baths and Spa. There's an outdoor rooftop thermal pool as well as many ways that you can pamper yourselves.

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

Is Zurich or Wernigerode Better for Backpackers and Budget Travelers?

Zurich
Wernigerode

Both Zurich and Wernigerode are nice destinations for backpackers.

Plenty of backpackers visit Zurich. The city has a number of hostels to choose from, but, like most of Switzerland, the city is expensive in general.

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.

Is Zurich or Wernigerode Better for Students?

Zurich
Wernigerode

Zurich is very popular for students. However, Wernigerode is not popular with students.

Students come from all over the world to visit Zurich. The city offers a number of unique experiences for international students. The academics are good and the university campuses are nice.

Wernigerode is not popular with students.


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

Zurich
Wernigerode

Zurich 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 Zurich can move around easily with public transportation. The system is made up of streetcars and buses.

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 Zurich or Wernigerode a more walkable city?

Zurich
Wernigerode

Wernigerode is a must-visit destination for its high level of walkability. Also, Zurich is not as famous, but is still a good city to visit for its ease of walking around.

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

Zurich is a very walkable destination. There are paths that lead along the rivers and the lake connecting the old town areas to other parts of the city.

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

Should I spend more time in Wernigerode or Zurich?

How long in Zurich or Wernigerode?

Visitors can find plenty of fun things to do in both Zurich and Wernigerode. With generally more activities and things to do, visitors tend to spend more time in Zurich than in Wernigerode. Usually, 2-5 days is a good amount of time for Zurich, and 1-3 days is enough time in Wernigerode.

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

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


  • How many days in Zurich or Wernigerode? Ideal Length of Stay
    Zurich 2-5 
    Wernigerode 1-3

One day in Zurich or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the food and shopping when visiting the liberal city of Zurich. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. Most people visit for the shopping. 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.

Wernigerode might be a small town, but there's plenty to do in the area. The old town is one of the main draws for visitors. One day is often enough time to do most activities.


A weekend in Zurich or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the shopping and museums when visiting the liberal destination of Zurich. Exploring the old town is a popular activity. 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.

Wernigerode is a great place to explore. It is common to spend a weekend here. With all of its activities, you can easily fill a weekend here. Your budget might influence how long you stay.

Five days in Zurich or Wernigerode?

Visitors enjoy the museums and nightlife when visiting the historic city of Zurich. Make sure you visit the old town while you're here. Many people spend five days here.If you enjoy all that's offered here, then five days is just the right amount of time to spend here. The length of your trip often depends on your style of travel.

It's hard to know how much time to spend in Wernigerode. 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. It has many unique tourist attractions and fascinating things to do.

A week in Zurich or Wernigerode?

Many people enjoy the nightlife and live music when visiting Zurich. Anyone can find something fun to do here. Most visitors spend time around the old town while in the area. Most people visit for the shopping. Most people find that one week is more than enough time to see everything.

Wernigerode is a small town, so it's a great destination if you're short on time. This town offers a variety of activities to choose from. 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 Sightseeing Tours in Switzerland, The Best Romantic Tours for Couples in Switzerland, The Best Coach Bus Tours in Germany, and The Best Adventure Tours to Germany.


Which place is cheaper, Wernigerode or Zurich?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Zurich is $268, while the average daily cost in Wernigerode is $145. 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 Zurich and Wernigerode in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Zurich $170
    Wernigerode $79
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Zurich $340
    Wernigerode $158
Compare Hotels in Zurich and Wernigerode

Looking for a hotel in Zurich or Wernigerode? 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 Zurich


Hotels in Wernigerode


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: Zurich Hotel Prices and Wernigerode Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Zurich $36
    Wernigerode $20
Typical Local Transportation Prices in Zurich

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for transportation costs in Zurich:


  • City Pass (2)
    $28

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Zurich

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Zurich:

  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich - Arrival Private Transfer: $41
  • Private Transfer From Hotel To Zurich Airport or Vice Versa: $56
  • Private One-way Airport Transfer Zurich Airport To/From Zurich: $65
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Vals Thermal Resorts - Arrival Transfer: $65
  • Noumea Cruise Port to Noumea hotels - Arrival Private Transfer : $71
  • Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Badenweiler Thermal - Arrival Transfer: $76
  • Private Transfer from Zurich Airport (ZRH) to Zurich City Center: $76
  • From Zurich Airport: 1-Way Private Transfer To Zurich Hotel: $78
  • Private Transfer: Zurich Airport ZRH to Zurich in Business Car: $82
  • Private Transfer From Hotel in Zurich To Zurich Airport: $87
  • Private Transfer From Zurich Airport To Hotel in Zurich: $87
  • Private Zurich Transfer: $90

Is it cheaper to fly into Zurich or Wernigerode?

Prices for flights to both Wernigerode and Zurich 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
    Zurich $62
    Wernigerode $49
Typical Food Prices in Zurich

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


  • Breakfast for 2
    $13

Typical Food Prices in Wernigerode

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


  • Dinner for Two
    $24
  • Soda
    $1.82

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Zurich $36
    Wernigerode $30

Tours and Activities in Zurich

Some specific costs of activities, tours, and entrance tickets for Zurich are as follows:

  • First Discovery Walk and Reading Walking Tour: $3.21
  • Zurich in the Mirror of the Past: Self-Guided Reading Tour: $5.47
  • City Exploration Game and Tour on your Phone: $6.36
  • Zurich Highlights Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt and Tour: $6.42
  • Escape Game and Tour: $6.42
  • Best of Zürich: A Self-Guided Audio Tour in English: $7.87
  • Fun adventure tour of Outdoor Escape Game: $8.54
  • Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • Zürich: Swiss Finance Museum Admission Ticket: $11
  • Zurich in the Mirror of the Past: Self-Guided Audio Tour: $11
  • The Dark Side of Self-Guided Audio City Tour: $11
  • Zurich Old Town Walking Tour: 2-Hours: $14

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Zurich $29
    Wernigerode $23

Sample the Local Flavors in Zurich

Also in Zurich, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Pub Crawl Nightlife Tour with Shots and Snacks: $31
  • eTukTuk Hot Stone BBQ and Wine Tour Zürich: $129


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


Which is Bigger, Zurich or Wernigerode?

Zurich has a larger population, and is about 10 times larger than the population of Wernigerode. When comparing the sizes of Zurich and Wernigerode, 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 Zurich or Wernigerode?

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 Zurich or Wernigerode in the Summer?

Both Wernigerode and Zurich are popular destinations to visit in the summer with plenty of activities. Many travelers come to Zurich for the music scene and the family-friendly experiences. Also, many visitors come to Wernigerode in the summer for the small town charm and the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Zurich is generally a little warmer than Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 21°C (70°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 19°C (65°F).

It's quite sunny in Wernigerode. The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Zurich. Zurich usually receives more sunshine than Wernigerode during summer. Zurich gets 241 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 201 hours of full sun in the summer.

In July, Zurich usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Zurich gets 89 mm (3.5 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 50 mm (2 in) of rain each month for the summer.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Zurich 21°C (70°F) 
    Wernigerode 19°C (65°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Wernigerode in the Autumn?

Both Wernigerode and Zurich during the autumn are popular places to visit. Many visitors come to Zurich in the autumn for the shopping scene, the music scene, and the natural beauty of the area. Also, most visitors come to Wernigerode for the small town atmosphere during these months.

Zurich is a little warmer than Wernigerode in the autumn. The daily temperature in Zurich averages around 13°C (56°F) in October, and Wernigerode fluctuates around 11°C (52°F).

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

Zurich usually gets more rain in October than Wernigerode. Zurich gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 35 mm (1.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Zurich 13°C (56°F) 
    Wernigerode 11°C (52°F)

Should I visit Zurich or Wernigerode in the Winter?

The winter attracts plenty of travelers to both Zurich and Wernigerode. Most visitors come to Zurich for the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine during these months. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Wernigerode because of the museums and the cuisine.

The weather in Wernigerode can be very cold. Zurich can be very cold during winter. In the winter, Zurich is much warmer than Wernigerode. Typically, the winter temperatures in Zurich in January average around 3°C (37°F), and Wernigerode averages at about 2°C (35°F).

Zurich usually receives less sunshine than Wernigerode during winter. Zurich gets 55 hours of sunny skies, while Wernigerode receives 60 hours of full sun in the winter.

In January, Zurich usually receives more rain than Wernigerode. Zurich gets 77 mm (3 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 40 mm (1.6 in) of rain each month for the winter.


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

Should I visit Zurich or Wernigerode in the Spring?

The spring brings many poeple to Zurich as well as Wernigerode. The spring months attract visitors to Zurich because of the natural beauty. Also, the small town charm are the main draw to Wernigerode this time of year.

In April, Zurich is generally a little warmer than Wernigerode. Daily temperatures in Zurich average around 12°C (53°F), and Wernigerode fluctuates around 9°C (48°F).

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

Zurich usually gets more rain in April than Wernigerode. Zurich gets 79 mm (3.1 in) of rain, while Wernigerode receives 51 mm (2 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Zurich 12°C (53°F) 
    Wernigerode 9°C (48°F)

Typical Weather for Wernigerode and Zurich

Zurich Wernigerode
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 3°C (37°F) 77 mm (3 in) 2°C (35°F) 40 mm (1.6 in)
Feb 5°C (40°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 2°C (36°F) 36 mm (1.4 in)
Mar 8°C (46°F) 72 mm (2.8 in) 5°C (41°F) 47 mm (1.9 in)
Apr 12°C (53°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 9°C (48°F) 51 mm (2 in)
May 16°C (60°F) 101 mm (4 in) 14°C (56°F) 58 mm (2.3 in)
Jun 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 17°C (62°F) 71 mm (2.8 in)
Jul 21°C (70°F) 89 mm (3.5 in) 19°C (65°F) 50 mm (2 in)
Aug 21°C (69°F) 104 mm (4.1 in) 19°C (65°F) 63 mm (2.5 in)
Sep 18°C (64°F) 79 mm (3.1 in) 16°C (60°F) 37 mm (1.4 in)
Oct 13°C (56°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 11°C (52°F) 35 mm (1.4 in)
Nov 7°C (45°F) 82 mm (3.2 in) 6°C (43°F) 49 mm (1.9 in)
Dec 4°C (39°F) 83 mm (3.3 in) 3°C (37°F) 46 mm (1.8 in)