Key Facts about Wernigerode, Germany

Nicknamed the “Colorful Town of the Harz”, Wernigerode is a storybook destination where medieval charm meets natural beauty. Its pastel half-timbered houses, perched castle, and nostalgic steam trains create an unforgettable atmosphere. Whether you’re exploring the cobbled streets, hiking into the Harz Mountains, or celebrating Walpurgis Night, Wernigerode offers a rich blend of culture, history, and scenic wonder.

9/30/20251 min read

Location

Wernigerode is a picturesque town located in the Harz Mountains of Saxony-Anhalt, Germany, about 90 km southwest of Magdeburg.

Known for

Its colorful half-timbered houses, fairy-tale castle, and historic steam railway, making it one of the most charming towns in central Germany.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April–June): Pleasant for walking tours and blooming scenery.
Summer (July–August): Warm, lively, and perfect for outdoor festivals.
Autumn (September–October): Stunning fall colors in the Harz Mountains.
Winter (November–February): Magical with Christmas markets and snow-covered landscapes.

Local Language

German. English is spoken in tourist areas.

Currency

Euro (€).

Getting There

By car: Easily accessible via the A36 motorway.
By train: Direct connections from major German cities via the Harz-Elbe Express.
By air: Closest airports are Leipzig/Halle Airport (130 km) and Hannover Airport (150 km).
By steam train: The Harz Narrow Gauge Railway connects Wernigerode to Brocken, the highest peak in the Harz Mountains.

Top Attractions

Wernigerode Castle (Schloss Wernigerode): A neo-Gothic castle with panoramic views of the town.
Old Town: Famous for its brightly painted half-timbered houses and the historic Town Hall on the Marktplatz.
Harz Narrow Gauge Railway: A nostalgic steam train ride into the Harz Mountains.
Museum of Aviation and Technology: Showcasing historic aircraft and engines.
Lustgarten and Bürgerpark: Beautiful parks for leisurely walks.
Harz Mountains: Hiking, biking, and winter sports opportunities.

Local Specialties

Harzer Käse: A sour milk cheese with a strong flavor.
Game dishes: Venison and wild boar, common in Harz cuisine.
German sausages and stews: Traditional hearty meals.
Harz honey and herbal schnapps.

Notable Events

Walpurgis Night (April 30): Celebrations with bonfires, costumes, and music, marking spring’s arrival.
Wernigerode Castle Festival (summer): Music and cultural events at the castle.
Christmas Market (December): One of the most charming in the Harz region.
Town Festivals: Featuring local crafts, food, and traditional German folk music.