WERNIGERODE
Wernigerode is the colorful heart of the Harz, a historic town of half-timbered houses set against a dramatic backdrop of mountains. It’s a fairy-tale blend of medieval charm and natural splendor, dominated by its majestic castle.
This region offers a perfect escape into nature and history. It is a land of iconic steam trains, scenic hiking trails, and the ancient mystique of the Brocken mountain, where legends of witches and folklore still thrive.
Most Popular Attractions
Historic Center & Architecture:
Rathaus (Town Hall): The town’s centerpiece, a stunning gothic half-timbered building with two octagonal towers, dating back to the 13th century.
Krummelsches Haus: Known as the “most beautiful house in Wernigerode,” this intricately decorated half-timbered building is a remarkable example of Baroque architecture.
Westerntor: A picturesque, preserved medieval gate that once served as the town’s western entrance.
Harzmuseum: Located in the city center, this museum focuses on the natural, geological, and historical aspects of the Harz region.
Smallest House in Wernigerode (Das Kleinste Haus): A tiny, quirky half-timbered house that is now a museum, showcasing a piece of the town’s social history.
Wohltäterbrunnen (Benefactors’ Fountain): A historic fountain in the center of the Old Town Square, a popular meeting point.
Bunte Häuser (Colorful Houses): The vibrant, well-preserved collection of half-timbered houses that give the town its nickname, “The Colorful Town on the Harz.”
St. Sylvestri Church (Sylvestrikirche): A historic church with a recognizable spire, offering a tranquil space and beautiful views from its tower.
Former Mint (Alte Münze): A building illustrating the town’s past economic life.
Castle & Culture:
Schloss Wernigerode (Wernigerode Castle): Perched above the town, this stunning castle combines Romanesque, Gothic, and Baroque styles and now houses a cultural history museum.
Fliegendes Klassenzimmer (Flying Classroom Memorial): Located near the castle, a tribute to the famous children’s book by Erich Kästner, which was partially set in Wernigerode.
Feuerwehrmuseum (Fire Brigade Museum): A specialized museum dedicated to the history of firefighting, featuring historic equipment and vehicles.
Luftfahrtmuseum Wernigerode (Aviation Museum): Located slightly outside the center, showcasing over 50 historic aircraft and helicopters.
Schiefes Haus (Crooked House): A small, heavily leaning half-timbered building that once served as a water mill, now a gallery/museum.
Nature & Harz Experience:
Harzer Schmalspurbahnen (HSB): The narrow-gauge steam railway offering scenic trips, most famously up to the Brocken mountain.
Brocken: The highest peak in the Harz, reachable by the HSB, famous for its unique climate, granite formations, and the legendary Brocken Witches.
Wildpark Christianental: A local wildlife park where visitors can see native Harz animals in their natural environment.
Märzenbecherwiese im Zillierbachtal: A meadow famous for the early spring bloom of “Märzenbecher” (spring snowflakes), a beautiful natural spectacle.
Klaustaler Teich: A reservoir near the town, popular for scenic walks and relaxation.
Harzer Baudensteig: A long-distance hiking trail that starts in Wernigerode, connecting various traditional Harz mountain inns.
Drei Annen Hohne: A famous stop on the HSB line, a hub for hiking trails leading towards the Brocken and the surrounding forests.
Activities & Experiences
Ride the Harz Narrow Gauge Railway (HSB) to the Brocken: Take a historic steam train from Wernigerode up to the peak of the Brocken, the highest mountain in the Harz. The misty, atmospheric journey offers incredible views.
Explore Wernigerode Castle: Visit the spectacular, partly neo-Gothic castle perched above the town. Tour the museum and enjoy the panoramic view of Wernigerode’s colorful houses.
Wander through the Historical Old Town: Spend hours admiring the half-timbered houses (Fachwerkhäuser), especially the brightly colored Rathaus (Town Hall) in the market square, considered one of Germany’s most beautiful.
Hike to the Brocken Peak: For the active traveler, hike one of the many scenic trails to the summit of the Brocken, which was famously referenced in Goethe’s Faust.
Tour the Miniature Park “Kleiner Harz”: View perfect, small-scale replicas of the region’s main attractions, including castles, churches, and the Harz Railway, all in one place.
Visit the Schierke Fireplace (Feuerstein-Arena): Experience this unique, circular ice rink and multi-purpose sports hall in the nearby village of Schierke, great for skating in winter or other activities year-round.
Discover the Rübeland Caves: Drive to the nearby village of Rübeland to explore the stunning Hermannshöhle and Baumannshöhle show caves, complete with stalactites, stalagmites, and underground lakes.
Experience the Harzer Hexenstieg Trail: Hike a section of this famous, mystical long-distance trail that connects many of the Harz region’s key sights and legends, especially those tied to witches and folklore.
Go for a Swim at the Waldseebad Christianental: Enjoy the outdoors at this picturesque, natural forest swimming lake nestled in the Christianental valley just outside of town.
Indulge in Harz Regional Cuisine: Sample hearty local specialties like Harzer Käse (a pungent sour-milk cheese), Wildgulasch (venison goulash), or Bauerntopf (farmer’s stew) at a traditional Gasthaus.
Explore the Town of Quedlinburg: Take a short train or car ride to this UNESCO World Heritage town, famous for its over 1,300 half-timbered houses and its stunning collegiate church.
Local Tips & Transport
Walking is Paramount: Wernigerode’s compact historic center is easily and best explored entirely on foot. You can walk from the train station to the Market Square and up to the castle.
The HATIX System: If you stay in a participating accommodation in the Harz region, you will receive a visitor’s card that doubles as a free public transport ticket (HATIX) for many bus and tram lines in the Harz district. This is a game-changer for exploring nearby towns like Quedlinburg and Goslar.
Harz Narrow Gauge Railway (HSB): While a fantastic experience, the steam railway is primarily a tourist attraction and is priced separately. For budget-conscious travel, use the HATIX buses to get between towns.
Car for Nature: While not essential for the town, a car offers the most flexibility for exploring remote hiking trails, the Rübeland Caves, and the White Villages (Pueblos Blancos equivalent) of the Harz.
Parking: When visiting the old town, look for designated parking garages on the perimeter, as street parking in the center is highly restricted and often difficult to find.
Embrace the Legend of the Witches (Hexen): The Harz is steeped in folklore, most notably the legend of the witches gathering on the Brocken mountain during Walpurgisnacht (April 30th). You’ll see witch figures (Hexen) everywhere—they make excellent souvenirs.
Find the Smallest House: Seek out the Kleinste Haus in the Kochstraße (The Smallest House), a curiosity of the old town’s architecture. It’s a fun and quick photo opportunity.
The Brocken’s Weather: The Brocken mountain has a notorious microclimate. The top can be shrouded in mist, fog, or snow even when the town below is sunny. Dress in layers and assume the temperature and visibility at the summit will be dramatically different from Wernigerode.
Dining Culture: Traditional German dining times are earlier than in Southern Europe. Lunch is usually taken between 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, and dinner often starts around 6:00 PM. Many smaller, family-run restaurants may have limited hours or close earlier in the evening.
Hidden Gems:
- Krummelsches Haus: Look for this spectacular half-timbered house adorned with elaborate wooden carvings, located near the Market Square. It’s one of the most richly decorated in the town.
- Apotheke (Pharmacy) Museum: Located in the medieval Klint district, this small but fascinating museum showcases the history of pharmacy and traditional remedies in a beautiful historic building.
- The “Flying” Rathaus: The historic Town Hall is actually two separate buildings joined together with a wooden bridge, giving it a unique and iconic appearance that’s worth a second look.
Top Restaurants
Restaurant & Café Harzer Schnitzelhaus Meyer GmbH [$15-$25] – A classic spot for traditional German cuisine, with a focus on a wide variety of Schnitzel dishes and a cozy, rustic atmosphere.
Gasthaus Zum Auerhahn [$15-$25] – Known for its hearty, authentic Harz regional dishes, including game specialties, served in a traditional setting near the edge of town.
Brauhaus Wernigerode [$20-$35] – Located in a historic building, this brewery and restaurant offers traditional German fare and pub classics, accompanied by their own locally brewed beer.
Restaurant Gaststuben im Travel Charme Gothisches Haus [$20-$40] – Part of a historic hotel, this restaurant serves classic regional and seasonal German dishes in an elegant, traditional setting.
Restaurant Zeitlos [$20-$35] – A restaurant focusing on German and regional Harz cuisine, known for its warm ambiance and traditional comfort food with fresh ingredients.
Zum Wilddieb [$20-$35] – A popular place for game dishes and other regional specialties, offering a cozy, hunter’s lodge atmosphere.
LUX Bar and Restaurant [$20-$35] – Offers a mix of traditional and modern German cuisine, including Schnitzels and hearty meat dishes, in a contemporary setting.
Wernigeröder Kartoffelhaus [$15-$25] – Specializes in dishes centered around the potato (Kartoffel), a staple in German cuisine, offering a variety of simple, satisfying meals.
Bürgerstüb’l [$15-$25] – A local spot offering simple, home-style German food in a relaxed, classic pub atmosphere.
Halberstädter Würstchen & Fleischwaren [$10-$20] – While not a full restaurant, this shop offers a great place to try local Wurst (sausages) and meat products for a casual, authentic bite.
Zeitwerk [$100-$150] – The only Michelin-starred restaurant in Saxony-Anhalt, led by chef Robin Pietsch. It offers innovative, finesse-rich, multi-course menus using regional ingredients in a modern, intimate, living-room style. Reservations are essential and should be made far in advance.
WEINBAR ANNO 1910 [$30-$60] – A charming wine bar and restaurant offering refined international and German cuisine, focusing on seasonal ingredients and an extensive wine list.
BODEM’S Restaurant [$30-$50] – Located in the Hotel Am Anger, this restaurant provides a modern take on German and international dishes with a focus on quality and presentation.
Restaurant Orchidea Huong [$30-$60] – Although Asian, its high-end, Japanese-Vietnamese fusion cuisine, focusing on attention to detail and a refined atmosphere in a historic half-timbered house, makes it a modern and creative standout.
Joseph’s Fine Dining (in nearby Schierke) [$50-$80] – A refined dining experience offering high-quality, modern cuisine, worth the short trip from Wernigerode.
Restaurant Zwölfender [$30-$50] – Offers a sophisticated international menu with modern presentations, located near the town center.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
LUX Bar and Restaurant: Situated on Breite Str. in Wernigerode, this stylish bar and restaurant offers a selection of first-class cocktails alongside fine cuisine, perfect for a relaxed yet sophisticated evening.
HaiLive – Bar Wernigerode: Known for having one of the city’s largest drink menus, this bar offers a cozy, “living room atmosphere” and specializes in cocktails and a wide variety of gins (over 30 sorts), catering to a refined taste.
Tommi’s Pub: A welcoming spot in the town center, this pub is a great meeting place for friends to enjoy a long drink, wine, or a cocktail in a relaxed setting with both indoor and outdoor seating.
Ars Vivendi: Located on Bahnhofstraße, this spot functions as a music and cocktail bar, offering a place to relax during the week and transforming into a more lively venue on weekends.
Schlieper’s Restaurant Café Bar: Found in the pedestrian zone on Burgstraße, just a short walk from the market square, this establishment serves as both a restaurant and a bar, ideal for a casual drink.
alles-Füll-bar: A small, intimate bar on Breite Straße, highly regarded for its large selection of whiskeys, providing a friendly and relaxed atmosphere for enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.
Bar 1894: Located in the Harz region, this is one of the bars highlighted in regional nightlife guides for providing a good selection of spirits and cocktails in a cozy setting. (Specific location in Wernigerode may vary).
The VALHALLA Bar: Featured as a recommended bar in the Harz region, offering a range of drinks and a likely cozy atmosphere for a relaxed evening. (Specific location in Wernigerode may vary).
Weinschule und Handel Harz “Wine & More”: While focused on wine, this location in the broader Harz area serves as a sophisticated venue for those who prefer wine and may also offer other spirits, perfect for a mature night out. (Specific location in Wernigerode may vary).
HKK Hotel Wernigerode Bars (TENEO and Berliner Zille): Located within the HKK Hotel, TENEO Restaurant & Bistro offers international and seasonal drinks in a pleasant atmosphere, while the rustic Bierstube Berliner Zille offers a cozy evening with fresh draught Pilsner and other refreshing drinks.
Brauhaus Wernigerode: While known for its own beer, this traditional brewery on Breite Str. also has an active events schedule and serves as a major gastronomic and social hub, occasionally featuring cocktail-style offers like “Caipi-Time.”
Drink’A’Bell: A venue listed in Harz nightlife guides as a place to go for drinks, providing a further option for a sociable evening in the area. (Specific location in Wernigerode may vary).
Ratskeller: Located in the cellar of the historic Town Hall (Rathaus) on the Marktplatz, this classic German restaurant offers a traditional, historic setting for enjoying a drink.
Hotel Garni ‘Zur Tanne’ Bar: Found in the Old Town, this hotel bar provides a classic, comfortable setting for an evening drink after a day of sightseeing.
Café Wien: A pretty spot on the Breite Strasse primarily known for desserts and cakes, but also a good location for a leisurely evening coffee or an initial drink in the bustling old town.
Elmo Klub: Wernigerode’s central and most vibrant nightclub, located at Am Köhlerteich 2. It is renowned for its impressive sound system, spacious dance floor, captivating lighting, and diverse events, ranging from themed parties to live DJ performances.
ALLEGRO-TANZBAR: A modern dance bar located within the HKK Hotel Wernigerode, perfect for a sociable dance on Friday and Saturday evenings, attracting a mix of ages with various music rhythms.
Ars Vivendi: Located on Bahnhofstraße, this venue hosts disco and dancing every Friday and Saturday, transforming its music and cocktail bar setting into a lively club experience on weekends.
Brauhaus Wernigerode (Brauhaus-Stadl): On Saturday nights from 20:00, the Brauhaus on Breite Str. transforms with the “Brauhaus-Stadl,” offering music for both young and old with free entry, providing a club-like atmosphere in a traditional setting.
Schlieper’s Restaurant Café Bar: Depending on the night, this bar in the pedestrian zone can transition into a more lively spot, offering a central location for evening entertainment.
LUX Bar and Restaurant: While primarily a restaurant, its stylish atmosphere and focus on “first-class cocktails” mean it can serve as a sophisticated late-night lounge or pre-club venue in the city center.
Tommi’s Pub: With late hours on weekends, this pub in the town center often serves as a lively venue with a mix of great people and good music, making it a great spot for dancing and a “start the weekend” vibe.
HaiLive – Bar Wernigerode: With its late hours and “exclusive drinks,” it functions as a high-quality late-night lounge for those seeking handcrafted cocktails and a refined atmosphere without a large dance floor.
Hotel Garni ‘Zur Tanne’ Lounge/Bar: Located in the Old Town, the hotel’s bar area provides a reliable and accessible spot for late-night drinks.