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What makes Eltz Castle so magic

Eltz Castle is different. It remained unscathed by wars. It has been owned and cared for by the same family from when it was built until today. Its architecture has no comparison and many of the original furnishings of the past eight centuries still remain in place. It houses rustic suits of armour , swords and halberds as well as magnificent courtly gold and silver artefacts. It towers high on a large rock set deep in a valley . It stands in the midst of the Eltz Forest, a nature reserve of serene beauty, which offers numerous hiking trails and outdoor areas for sports and recreation for all age groups.

The section “The Castle” shows and describes the highlights of our medieval fairy-tale castle. It gives information about the Architecture & Setting as well as Plans & Construction Timeline of the “quintessential castle” (Georg Dehio). It also gives a Guided Tour of the Castle and Treasury , Historic Depictions and the Eltz Nature Reserve.

Enjoy your stay in our ancestral home.

Johann Jakob Graf zu Eltz.

The unique architecture and position of Eltz Castle

The architecture of Eltz Castle is the main attraction: its eight towers, soaring up to 35 metres high, its oriels, roofs, timber frame structures and turrets make it the epitome of a medieval castle.

What makes it iconic is also its unrivalled location: set in the midst of a forest, deep down in a valley, far from any modern buildings and entirely surrounded by a natural paradise, it allows visitors to experience a medieval dream.

In the Gallery you can see the castle from all directions.

Perched on a 60 m high rock surrounded on three sides by the Elzbach and nestled within the historic Eltz Forest.

Seen from the big bend, in the foreground the outer bailey, the coach house of 1350 and behind it the residential tower of Groß Rodendorf, of 1520.

with its walled bridge leading to the castle gate. In medieval times this access was protected by a drawbridge.

(from left to right) Goldsmith’s House, Craftsmen’s Houses and the Coach House in the outer bailey, Groß and Klein Rodendorf, three Kempenich houses and Platteltz (detail) in the central castle.

with (from left to right) Rodendorf, Kempenich and Platteltz and the older Rübenach roof in the rear, view from the east.

Platteltz on the left (erected 1150 to 1260) and the Kempenich Houses on the right (built 1150 to 1660).

Built over 500 years (1150-1650), it shows how closely three branches of the family and a total of 180 people lived together in Klein Rodendorf (1-2 o-clock), Groß Rodendorf (3-4 o-clock, Rübenach (5-7 o-clock), Platteltz (8-9 o-clock) and Kempenich (10-12 o-clock).

view towards the east, Rübenach on the left, Kempenich in the centre and Platteltz on the right .

view from afar from the west.

from the west; in the foreground the outer fortifications with two towers which were razed after the Eltz Feud in 1336; in the central castle (from left to right) Platteltz, Kempenich (rear), Rübenach and Rodendorf; in the outer castle the Gatekeeper’s House, the Craftsmens’ House and the Goldsmith’s House.

seen from the western Eltzbach Valley

Sections, Plans and Building History

Cross section.

The castle was built to secure the trade routes between Mosel, Maifeld and Eifel. There are remains of Celtic and Roman fortifications in this spot too.

The castle’s situation in such a strategic position meant that it remained unconquered until the invention of long-range catapults (trebuchets) and the erection of siege castles under Elector Balduin of Trier in the early 14 th century, who eventually forced the rulers of Eltz to surrender in 1336.

General Plan of the Castle

The General Plan shows the floorplan of the castle complex with the different houses which were inhabited by the three branches of the family, the outer castle and the outer fortifications.

Further Information regarding – “The architectural chronicle of the castle” and “Nine centuries House of Eltz“ – can be found in our History section.

The guided tour – a journey through nine centuries in one Castle

The tour of Eltz Castle (for entrance fees, times and duration see Opening Hours, Entrance Fees and Practical Information) is an exciting and informative but also entertaining journey through 900 years of German architecture and culture.  

You will discover a wide range of Medieval and early modern architecture and many interiors that have survived largely unchanged. The Castle houses artworks and crafts of European, national, or regional significance as well as weapons and every-day items from 8 centuries.

The Gallery shows photographs of the interiors that are visited during the guided tour.

The entrance to Rübenach House was converted into an Armoury during the Romantic period. It contains the oldest surviving cannon bolts in the world, swords, halberds, shields, bows and arrows as well as muskets of the 14 th to 17 th century.

This was the living room of the Eltz-Rübenach family. It was built in 1311 and houses the famous painting "Madonna with Child and Grapes", a world-class masterpiece by Lucas Cranach the Elder.

This large living quarter with its ornamental murals of 1450 by a Burgundy artist is also referred to as the Bed Chamber because of the large, carved four-poster bed in this room.

The east wall of the Bed Chamber is adorned with a dainty Gothic chapel oriel with its sacral leaded windows of 1520 depicting the Eltz donors.

The Dressing Room, adjoining the Bed Chamber is also decorated with 15th century murals - floral and figurative images - such as Jutta and Lanzelot of Eltz of the line "with the Silver Lion" and the date 1451.

In 1881 Count Karl furnished the room above the Rübenach entrance as a study for his wife Ludwine. The murals depict Late-Gothic vines framing portraits of himself and his two sons and six daughters in Romantic poses.

This room is named after the two Electors from the house of Eltz, Jakob zu Eltz of Trier (1567-1581) and Philipp Carl zu Eltz of Mainz (1732 bis 1743). Its original furnishings document the stylistic developments during the 17th and 18th century.

This late medieval hall of 1520 was used for festivities and as a meeting hall by all three branches of the family on Eltz Castle. Remarkable are the original heavy oak ceiling, the heraldic frieze, the original floor tiles as well as some beautiful suits of armour, the jester masks and the rose of silence.

This pentagonal room contains hunting weapons and trophies, furniture with fine intarsia and an old embrasure dating from the construction period of the castle. Next-door is the attic of the Castle Chapel with a collection of model cannons.

The Wambolt Room, named after the family of Count Karl’s mother (1823-1900), is furnished with beautifully carved and inlayed furniture, Dutch portraits, a tapestry of 1600, as well as historic household implements: a clothes press, a spinning wheel and a reel dating from the 17th and 18th century.

This small chamber is referred to as Countess’ Room or Nursery because of the paintings of children and young members of the House of Eltz or their relatives. Here you can also see the probably oldest surviving painted Renaissance bed in Germany, which was made around 1525.

The Banner Hall of around 1480 with its opulent, late Gothic Rhenish net vault is the most spectacular room in the castle. It was probably a chapel before being integrated into Groß Rodendorf House around 1510. Later it was used as a living and dining room.

The 15th century Rodendorf Kitchen is one of originally four kitchens in Eltz Castle. The objects displayed here date from the 15th to the 19th century.

The Treasury of Eltz Castle

The Eltz Castle Treasury comprises one of the most important private collections with more than 500 exhibits from nine centuries (see also the picture gallery on this page).

The exhibition focuses on artworks by German gold and silver smiths, particularly from Augsburg and Nuremberg. Other items on display include precious glass and porcelain, extravagant jewellery, ceremonial and real weapons as well as other curiosities from more than 800 years.

The Gallery shows 15 of over 500 exhibits in the treasury.

Cast silver, gold-plated, Christoph Lindenberger, Nuremberg 1557. Curiosities were essential to all aristocratic collections in the 16th and 17th century, particularly masterpieces of gold and silver smithing like this grotesque drinking vessel. © Slomifoto

Silver, partly gold-plated, Franz Christoph Mäderl, Augsburg, 1752. The last Faust von Stromberg gave this statue to his daughter on her wedding day under the condition that it should never be sold and that all her Eltz descendants should be named after her "gen. Faust (or Faustin) von Stomberg". This tradition is still upheld today. © Slomifoto

combination weapon combining a flintlock pistol with battle axe fittings,Steel. Oak, ivory and mother-of-pearl inlay, Germany around 1600. It was hard for soldiers to attack on horseback while wielding several weapons at once. This explains the popularity and efficiency of these combination weapons. © Slomifoto

Viennese porcelain, around 1840. This early depiction of Eltz Castle shows that the castle has remained nearly unchanged since the early 19th century. These "castle cups" were fashionable collectors’ items during the period of Romanticism. © Slomifoto

When a prince stopped over at Eltz Castle he had to pay 40 pieces of gold and give the gatekeeper two crossbows. This allowed him and his entourage to stay at the castle for up to one year, as was stipulated in the castle rules. © Slomifoto

Fitted with gemstones and enamel, Hungary around 1880. This formed part of the decoration of the Hungarian Magnate’s uniform made of brocade and with sable trimmings.Count Karl,the present owner’s grandfather, wore it at the coronation of Emperor Charles I of Austria in Budapest in 1916. ©Slomifoto

mother-of-pearl, silver and jasper, Mainz around 1730. Forks were only gradually introduced in the 17th century. Before then people used knives and spoons and, of course, their hands. © Slomifoto

Ivory and gold-plated wood, Amsterdam around 1650. Golden geese (or in Germany golden donkeys) or "Ducat shitters" are mythological creatures, which were brought to life by artists displaying a tongue-in-cheek humour.

©Slomifoto

Amber, fittings bronze, gold-plated. Baltic Sea region around 1680. Amber was very popular in the 17th and 18th century. Drinking vessels of this outstanding quality were mostly gifts from Prussian, Polish or Russian sovereigns. © Slomifoto

Ivory, silver, gold-plated, Strasbourg around 1680. This is not only a particularly magnificent drinking vessel showing the typical gestures of early French Baroque, but it was also fully functional. L’ art pour l’art - purely decorative and not practical – did not exist in those days. © Slomifoto

Gold, lapis lazuli, diamonds, France around 1810. After the dethronement of Emperor Napoléon, most jewellery depicting the Imperial family was melted down. Poverty was great in the exploited states of the Deutscher Bund after 1815 and people hated their long-term oppressors. © Slomifoto

of Johann Friedrich Carl von Ostein, Elector of Mainz, awarded to Count Anselm Kasimir zu Eltz, silver, gold-plated, Mainz around 1750. Sovereigns honoured their allies by presenting them with chamberlain’s keys. They were to be worn on a ribbon in a visible position and symbolized the privilege of having access to the sovereign’s private apartments at all times. © Slomifoto

Silver, partly gold plated, Abraham Drentwett II, Augsburg, around 1685. The three figures Hercules, Atlas and Chronos, bearing the terrestrial, the celestial and the planet globes at Eltz Castle were conceived as a group of 12 figures for a large clock by this master, which was never completed. © Slomifoto

Joachim Friess, Augsburg around 1600. Mechanical drinking game on wheels, silver, partly gold-plated, Diana was wound up and then moved around the table. Wherever she stopped, the man had to empty the stag and the woman had to empty the dog, both of which were filled with wine. Both cups were connected with short chains, thus forcing the drinkers to get close. © Slomifoto

Franz-Joseph Mahr, Dresden around 1730. Elector Philipp Carl was an enthusiastic hunter, leaving approximately two dozen magnificent guns from the first half of the 18th century. © Slomifoto

Important Information for all Visitors:

The numerous attractions in the Armoury and Treasury can be visited at any time during the opening hours. The exhibits are well labelled. There are no guided tours through this exhibition. Your entrance ticket includes your visit to the Armoury and Treasury.

Foreign visitors are given a free brochure with an English translation of the labels at the entrance to the museum.

Historic Depictions of Eltz Castle

By the end of the Middle Ages aristocratic families preferred residing in residences and palaces in towns rather than in the old castles. This is the reason why castles, including Eltz Castle, were only rarely depicted in art, except possibly as evidence of the ancestral home in a genealogical table.

This changed with the onset of the Romantic period after 1800. Eltz Castle became the object of Romanticists’ dreams, and a visit was considered obligatory for painters and writers from all over Europe. Visitors to Eltz Castle included, among others, the British painter William Turner and the French author Victor Hugo.

After 1820 travel journals and graphic art of Eltz Castle were published in great numbers and sold throughout Europe. One could refer to them as an early form of today’s Instagram boom.

In the Gallery you will find pictures of the Castle from three centuries.

Leaning against his family tree outside his ancestral home Eltz Castle.

Oil on Canvas, unknown Rhenish painter, around 1670. The oldest depiction of Eltz Castle.

Oil on canvas, Domenico Quaglio, 1812.

D. Quaglio, 1787-1837, is considered one of the most important painters of architecture in German Romanticism.

from the north, oil on canvas, Anton Diezler, 1838, A. Diezler was the son of the above-mentioned Johann Jakob Diezler and a well-known painter of landscapes and vedutas of the Biedermeier period.

view from the front, lithograph, Clarkson Stanfield , 1838

with the ruin of Trutzeltz, view from the east, watercolour, William Mallord Turner, 1841

W. M. Turner, 1775-1851, was one of the most important artists in England during the Romantic period. Turner painted a dozen watercolours and drawings of Eltz Castle.

view from the southeast, lithograph, unknown artist, around 1850.

View from the east, pen and ink with watercolour and white highlights over pencil, Caspar Johann Nepomuk Scheuren, 1856.

C. Scheuren is considered one of the most important Rhenish painters of the 19 th century.

View from the southwest Eltzbach Valley,

watercolour, Charles James Lauder, around 1865,

C. Lauder, 1841 - 1920, was a Scottish landscape and historical painter.

Eltz Castle seen from the northwest, lithograph by v. Francais, after a drawing by Baron de Bar , around 1870

view from the eastern castle mound, oil on canvas, around 1875, by an unknown German painter from the circle around Carl Spitzweg.

A Castle set within a Natural Paradise

Surrounded by forests, far from any roads or modern buildings, Eltz Castle epitomises the fantasy of the untouched, unpopulated Middle Ages like no other historic building in the country.

More than 300 hectares of the Eltz Forest have been declared a nature reserve by Flora-Fauna-Habitat and Natura 2000. This comprises the flood meadows of the Eltzbach Valley as well as the forests on the steep slopes that once supplied fuel for the castle. The forest has been declared an "Arboretum", a forest with a particularly rich variety of rare indigenous and foreign tree species.

The Eltz Nature Reserve is home to all the typical, and also some very rare, animal and plant species found in or near water, in brushwood or in forest biotopes.

This precious biotope can only survive if hikers, horse-riders and cyclists remain on the dedicated paths. Please help us to preserve this natural paradise.

Please comply with our house rules in the Eltz Forest.

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Read This or Eltz… A Guide to Germany’s Dreamy Burg Eltz (AKA Eltz Castle)

Last Updated: April 1, 2021

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Ahhh, Eltz Castle… Just one look at it and you’ll see why it’s one of the most adored castles in all of Europe.

I mean, if I could throw on a ballgown and pose in front of any castle, I think this would be the one.

Sure, Burg Eltz (in German) or Eltz Castle (in English) is one of many enchanting castles that you’ll find in Germany… but (as many travellers will confirm), there’s just something uniquely magical about it.

Save this guide to Burg Eltz for later!

You’ll be glad you did.

It could be that it’s one of the best preserved castles of its kind in the world or that it’s hidden deep in the forest, atop a 70m high rock.

Or, perhaps it’s the intriguing history of it, and how it was never destroyed or overtaken. Yup – the Eltz family still owns it today, as it has for over 800 years.

Regardless of the reason, it has to be said: you need to visit this place!!

The following post will be a straightforward guide on how to see the beauty of Burg Eltz Castle for yourself. BUT, if you’re looking for a chuckle, you can read about my visit here, as part of a (semi-disastrous) German road trip.

Burg Eltz (AKA Eltz Castle): A Brief History

I always think it’s nice to have a bit of context before I visit a location, so here’s a quick digest of the castle’s history.

As I mentioned before, the same family has owned it for over 800 years.

The prime construction period was between the 11th-13th century, with various additions made throughout the years.

While several of the Rhine region’s castles were destroyed during the Palatine Wars of Succession in the late 17th century, Eltz was spared thanks to two main things.

Firstly, a high officer in the French army who managed to get the castle off the “destroy list” at the time.

And secondly, the citizens of Müden who once (during a raid) saved the castle by “[luring] the marauders into a ripe cornfield and then [setting] fire to the field with their unwanted visitors.”

Gosh, history is awesome.

Anyways, restoration of the castle began taking place in the 19th century, under the orders of Count Karl zu Eltz, a resto job which had the price tag of what today would be 15 million Euros!

More restoration work took place in 2009-2012, and the castle stands tall and pretty today for all of us to gawk at.

You can read a more thorough historical record on the castle’s website.

Burg Eltz Castle (Burg Eltz in German, Eltz Castle in English) is by far one of the prettiest fairytale castles in Germany. Click through for a comprehensive guide on visiting Burg Eltz Castle for yourself, including how to get there, what to do there and where to get the best views.

Burg Eltz (Eltz Castle): Know Before You Go

The castle is only open for tours from April 1 – Nov 1. You are free to visit the castle site any time of the year, but you’ll only be able to tour the inside during these months. I went during the off-season, and still had an awesome time, so don’t worry!

The castle is hidden deep in the forest (magical hey?) and from the parking lot, you can either reach it by 1) walking or 2) taking the shuttle bus (which costs 2 euros each way and only runs from Apr – Nov when the castle is open for tours).

There are two options to walk to the castle: a quicker, steeper and less scenic route on the private road (that the shuttle bus drives on). This is the stroller-accessible route. The second option is a less steep walk through the forest on a footpath (that takes a little bit longer). This was the path I took and I thought it was super easy and relaxing.

There is a cost to entering the castle! Adults will pay 10 euros for a ticket, with discounted prices for groups (9 euros each for 20+ people), students (6.50 euros) and a family pack as well (28 euros for 2 adults and 2 children).

FUN FACT: The castle was featured on the German 500 Deutsche Mark note for over 25 years.

How to Reach Burg Eltz (Eltz Castle)

Given its mystical, fairytale appeal, it’s probably no surprise that Burg Eltz Castle isn’t in the middle of any city.

Luckily, there are a number of beautiful cities nearby that make a great base for visiting.

Koblenz is the closest (about a 40 min drive), but Trier, Cologne, Mainz and Frankfurt are all less than 2 hours away as well, meaning it’s possible to do a day trip from any of these spots.

NOTE: Trier might not be as well known internationally as the other cities listed above, but it’s a short trip from the castle and packed with fascinating Roman history. Definitely stop by if you get a chance!

SO, once you’re in the area, how do you get to the actual castle? There are tons of options:

(The most convenient way) BY CAR: As previously mentioned, there’s a car park near the castle where parking is 2 euros (or 4 euros for larger cars w/ trailers, camper vans, etc.)

BY TAXI: If you don’t have a car of your own, you could hire a taxi to drive you to the castle.

BY TRAIN: During weekends and holidays from May – October, you can get off at Hatzenport or Treis-Karden and then catch the Burgenbus (Castle Bus) to the car park. You can use the Deutsche Bahn website to plan your journey. If visiting in the off-season, the closest stop to the castle would be Moselkern, and from there you can make your way by taxi or by foot (about a 5km walk).

BY PUBLIC TRANSPORT: On weekends and holidays from May to October, there is a special Castle Bus (Burgenbus) that leaves from Treis-Karden, Mueden, Moselkern and Hatzenport. More details here.

BY BIKE: If you want to explore the area by bike, here are some popular cycling routes to Burg Eltz Castle. Don’t worry, you’re able to bring your bike on the Burgenbus and on the train too (in case you get tired!)

BY FOOT: When the weather is cooperating, many people choose to hike to the castle! There’s a huge selection of trails that vary by length and difficulty. If you’d like to work for your view, here are some trails to consider.

What to do at Burg Eltz

Alright, so you’ve made it to the castle, you’ve wept your tears of joy… now what? Well, here’s how you can spend your time at this oh so beautiful spot…

(YEAR ROUND) Admire the gorgeous facade

When the castle’s closed, I have to be honest: you’re a bit limited as to what you can see.

Don’t fret though – I went during off-season (which meant I wasn’t able to tour the inside), but I still had an amazing time.

The castle is just genuinely that beautiful. Plus, you’re also able to…

(YEAR ROUND) Hike around the area

As I mentioned before, Burg Eltz Castle is hidden in the forest, which means it’s surrounded by lush greenery and trails.

To explore a bit, take the stairs just off of the castle’s main path and you’ll find loads of cool viewpoints, like this one:

PS: When at the castle, keep your eyes out for some castle ruins in the distance. This was the Trutzeltz, a siege castle erected by the Archbishop of Trier in the 14th century, and where he supposedly besieged Eltz Castle with many catapults and heavy stone balls. Medieval feuds, hey?

(APR – NOV ONLY) Tour the castle

When it’s open for the season, Burg Eltz Castle hosts guided tours that last approximately 45 min.

Be sure to clarify the tour times/languages when you arrive!

Many tours will be conducted in German, but they do English, French and Dutch tours as well at specified times.

If you don’t want to wait and feel like tagging along on a German tour, they also have translation leaflets for a variety of languages.

(APR – NOV ONLY) Visit the Burg Eltz Castle treasury

A guide is not required to visit the treasury – all you need is your valid ticket. NOTE: The displays are in German but keep your eye out for English flyers with translations.

(APR – NOV ONLY) Grab a bite to eat at the castle’s restaurants

There are actually two restaurants on-site, where you can grab some hearty eats with an impressive view. According to TripAdvisor reviews, the food is apparently super delicious.

(APR – NOV ONLY) Shop for souvenirs at the castle shop

This is where you’ll find (of course) the typical souvenirs, but also a wide range of medieval goods and fun replicas too.

Any more questions about visiting Burg Eltz?

SO, in case I haven’t made it abundantly clear: Burg Eltz is a real must-visit!

After all, it’s gorgeous, architecturally impressive and well.. just plain magical.

I hope you found this article helpful, and that you can see this beauty for yourself sometime soon!

Let me know in the comments if you’ve ever been!

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29 thoughts on “Read This or Eltz… A Guide to Germany’s Dreamy Burg Eltz (AKA Eltz Castle)”

The castle almost even looks like a cartoon!

Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog https://charmainenyw.com

So pretty hey?! I could definitely see it playing a star role in a Disney movie haha.

Gorgeous! No wonder it is Rick’s favourite castle. 🙂

When I visit I’m definitely going to leave plenty of time to hike up to those different view points to get those great shots. I wish we could go this trip but we just won’t be in that area. Oh well, leaves me something to look forward to.

Oh definitely do the little hikes! I was a bit of a whiner when my boyfriend wanted to climb the hills (because I was exhausted) but it ended up being SO worth it 🙂 Yeah it’s a shame you won’t get to see it this time around, but I’m sure it’ll still be here for you when you’re ready!

I need to add this to my list. I loved seeing Neuschwanstein, but this looks so different! |

Both fairytale castles in their own way 🙂 It might have been because I went in the off-season, but Eltz Castle was SO much less busy than Neuschwanstein, which made it all the more appealing. Hope you get to see it for yourself soon!

This castle looks amazing! So dreamy! Thanks for sharing!

Love from Singapore, Yeeling

Thanks for reading, Yeeling! <3

Eltz Castle looks so beautiful and amazing! Definitely a place I want to visit in the near future! Thanks for sharing the info and your beautiful pictures.

You’re welcome, Mike!! Thanks for reading <3

Wow! Eltz Castle does look like a fairytale castle. The location kind of reminds me of Into the Woods or some kind of fairy garden. My daughter would love this since she is obsessed with princesses and royalty. I’m pinning this for future reference.

yes!! It definitely felt a lot like Into the Woods haha. I’m sure your daughter would love it here. Hopefully you get to bring her here soon, Allison. Thanks for reading 🙂

Such an exceptional and detailed post, Christina! I’ve never read a more informative post about the Eltz Castle!

Ahh that is the sweetest compliment ever. Thanks, Agness!!

Great post on Eltz Castle in Germany. We spent three weeks exploring the divergent sides of Germany last summer. We snapped over 5k in photos! It’s truly beautiful.

Haha that’s a lot of photos, but I’m not at all surprised. I adore Germany! Such an amazing country 🙂

My family and I just traveled to Burg Eltz two weeks ago and it truly is a fairytale castle. I now consider it my favorite castle in all of Germany. We fell in love with the area and can’t wait to return! Thank you for all your tips, it definitely helped on our trip!

So happy to hear that, Crystal! One of my favourites too, that’s for sure. Thanks for reading 🙂 <3

Very cool. That castle was an inspiration for the artwork for the animated film Hotel Transylvania.

Another great way to visit this castle is to hike in from Moselkern. A great trail follows the Eltz river from that area and is now my favorite way to get to the castle (parked up top the first time). We really love this place!

That sounds lovely!!! It’d be great to go back in the summertime and do some hikes around there. Thanks for the suggestion, Doug!

Totally agree, I did the same! Moselkern is a bit sleepy village but it all felt very authentic – almost no tourists. And the hike is fairly easy.

Love your article! It has all the info I need 🙂 looking to go to the castle this week! (After reading your post )

Yay!!! Hope you had an amazing time, Stefanie <3

Burg Eltz is quite nice, but we have much nicer castles in Germany 😉

I’d love to hear your suggestions for more!

If you love castles you should definetly visit the region called “Oberes Mittelrheintal” between Bingen in the south and Koblenz.

There are a myriad of castles on the hills besides the river Rhine. The “Oberes Mittelrheintal” is not without reason a World Heritage Site.

In Koblenz there is i.e. Stolzenfels Castle. Not as popular or historical as Eltz Castle but a very beautiful spot. I got married there some time ago. Best day of my life. 🙂

Some impressions from Stolzenfels Castle (only 5k in the south of Koblenz): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dYAIGbanSKM

Have fun visiting the world. Our next trips will take us to Spain, Gibraltar, Northern Ireland, Andorra, San Marino and in the next year the Baltic states and Finland should be prepared 🙂

hi christina, thanks for the your very wonderful information. I want to visit the castle in September 2018. How do you think? is it safe enough for me to hike to the castle alone? Because i will travel solo. Thank you

I enjoyed a thoroughly lovely full day there years and years ago. Hope to get back someday! But I found your blog because someone’s sharing on Twitter, etc. a short video outside the stone gate with scary music and claiming it’s “Dracula’s Castle in Romania.” Which is an 18-hour car ride from Eltz.

A Complete Guide To Visiting Burg Eltz, Germany’s Fairytale Castle

Burg Eltz is one of the most well-known castles in Germany, with its beautiful stone turrets, hidden away in the middle of the Rhineland-Palatinate countryside. It is one of the only castles in the region to be still standing. Burg Eltz is definitely somewhere you have to visit if you are in the area, not just for the view of the outside, but also to discover its rich history.

The castle is still owned by the original Eltz family who began living in the area in the 12th century. Although, now it is split into three “apartments” in which three segments of the family share. Burg Eltz brings with it some fun stories too, like the 6 year period it was under “siege” or the fact that at one point, 100 people lived inside!

We had the pleasure of visiting Burg Eltz last summer on our road trip through Germany . We were staying in the Mosel Valley so we visited Burg Eltz on a day trip to explore the castles in the Rhine River region.

Here is your complete guide to visiting Burg Eltz

How to get to burg eltz.

Burg Eltz is located in the countryside just north of the Mosel Valley . You can find it on the map here . If you don’t feel like visiting alone, you can find my recommendations for the best tours of Burg Eltz at the end of the article!

Driving to Burg Eltz is relatively simple. You can follow google maps to the Eltz Castle car park, and from here you can either walk or take a shuttle bus up to the castle. The drive is through quite windy forest roads which is really beautiful to see. When searching for the car park, be careful to select the right one otherwise you might end up hiking from the completely wrong place as we did. On google, this means choosing “Parkplatz Burg Eltz” and not “Wanderparkplatz”. Although, the walk from Wanderparkplatz to Burg Eltz was beautiful – you don’t have the option of the shuttle bus if you choose this!

There is a €2 parking fee for cars and €4 for camper vans or cars with trailers. The walk up to the castle takes around 15 minutes from the main car park, and if you opt for the shuttle bus it costs €2.

Public Transport

It is possible to travel to the castle by public transport. This probably means a bus and train connection depending on where you are arriving from. The bus options are limited to Saturdays and Sundays during the summer season. However, it is only a 5km walk from Moselkern station to Burg Eltz so it is definitely possible to visit the castle on weekdays too.

There is a bus that you can catch to Burg Eltz, however, it only runs on certain days and from certain places. The RegioRadler Burgenbus runs from Treis-Karden to Hatzenport, via Pyrmont Castle and Burg Eltz four times a day on Saturdays and Sundays from May to October.

This is quite a limited line but a good choice if you are staying in one of the areas. These buses also allow bicycles on board so are perfect if you want to explore the cycling trails around the castle during your visit to the castle.

The bus drops you at the car park where you can either walk or take the shuttle bus.

The train station closest to Burg Eltz is called Moselkern Station and it is 5km away from the castle itself. Trains go daily from Cochem, Trier, and Koblenz to Moselkern making it easy to visit Burg Eltz as a day trip from the Mosel Valley or the Rhine river region.

If you want to catch the bus connection, it is also possible to catch the train to Hatzenport or Treis-Karden, where you can catch the RegioRadler Burgenbus to Burg Eltz. Be careful if you choose this option as the buses are very limited (as I mentioned above)!

How to reach Burg Eltz

You can either walk from Wanderparkplatz car park, walk from Parkplatz Burg Eltz car park or take the shuttle bus from here to the castle entrance. The shuttle bus costs 2 euros, while the car park costs 2 euros for cars and 4 euros for camper vans or cars with trailers.

How long to spend at Burg Eltz

If you include the hike from the car park, wiring for tickets, and walking around the castle I would say you need to spend around 2 – 3 hours at Burg Eltz to see everything! Obviously, this can be longer or shorter depending on how busy it is on the day you visit!

Visiting the castle

Burg Eltz is not only beautiful from the outside but great to walk around. Inside, you can walk around one section of the castle, looking at furniture, paintings, and artifacts from hundreds of years ago.

The courtyard area has a gift shop, toilets, and a small cafe which is open from 9.30 – 18.

The castle is open from 9.30 – 18 and has guided tours in German, English, and Dutch that depart every 10 – 15 minutes depending on how many people there are to take the tour!

We were one of the first groups into the castle and ended up getting a private tour as there were no others who wanted the tour in English! The tour itself takes around 40 minutes and you get to explore one section of the castle. You also get entry to the treasury where you can see armor, weapons, and treasures that the Eltz family collected from all over the world. There is no photography allowed inside the castle itself, but you can take photos in the courtyard.

The best time to arrive at Burg Eltz

Honestly, this depends on you and what you want to get out of Burg Eltz.

If you want to get there early to take photos without other people around, I would say to arrive around 1-2 hours before the castle opens. We visited Burg Eltz in the peak season (end of July) and arrived at 7.30 am and were the only people there!

If you want to visit Burg Eltz purely to see and walk around the castle, I would still recommend arriving early but it is not crucial to your visit. The castle is open from 9.30 – 18, but the queue for tickets builds up quickly. By 10.30 you will be waiting around 30-60 minutes to buy a ticket! Therefore I recommend visiting around 9/ 9.30 or later in the afternoon.

The best time to visit Burg Eltz

The castle is only open from spring – Autumn (usually from the start of April to the end of October). You can find the exact dates here.

The best time to visit is usually in the off-seasons, so in April and October. However, even in the peak season, it is not overly busy. There is a structure to how many people can enter the castle at once so visiting at a busy time won’t hinder your experience. It will only mean you might have to queue for a while longer to purchase tickets.

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February 5, 2024 at 5:06 pm

We are on a Viking river cruise that visits Koblenz, Germany. Their excursion to Fairy-tale Eltz Castle is full and we are looking for another way to visit the castle. Are there any tours from the port where ship is docked to the castle? Thank you for any help in this.

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Burg Eltz – Travel Guide to Visit One of the Most Beautiful Castle of Germany

January 18, 2024 by Edson Amorina Jr Leave a Comment

Guide to visit the Burg Eltz, including its history, location, transportation, best times, accommodation, activities, attractions, itineraries, food and tips.

If you are looking for a fairy-tale castle in Germany, look no further than Burg Eltz. This stunning medieval fortress is nestled in a valley surrounded by forests and hills.

It is one of the few castles in Germany that has never been destroyed or rebuilt, and it has been owned by the same family for over 800 years.

Important: Eltz Castle is closed from November 2nd, 2023 to March 24th, 2024.

Read also our post about What to do in the Eifel region in Germany – Travel Guide and Tips !

Table of Contents

Brief History of Burg Eltz in Germany

Burg Eltz was built in the 12th century by the Counts of Eltz, wich family still own it today. The castle became their official residence in 1157 and is perched on a 70-meter-high rock, surrounded on three sides by the Elzbach River. Notably, Burg Eltz is a Ganerbenburg, a unique form of communal ownership where multiple families or branches collectively share the castle and collaborate on its defense.

The architectural diversity of the castle is evident in its three distinct family wings, each featuring its own unique style such as the Kempenich wing with the golden lion, the Rübenach wing with the silver lion, and the Rodendorf wing with the buffalo horn.

View of the inner courtyard of Burg Eltz Germany

Throughout the centuries, Burg Eltz has stood as a living testament to German knight culture and medieval art. Boasting over 100 rooms filled with priceless furniture, paintings, weapons, and armor, the castle provides a captivating insight into the historical wealth and lifestyle of its occupants. Of particular note is the castle’s treasure chamber, showcasing exquisite gold and silver smithery, porcelain, jewelry, and coins.

Remarkably, despite the passage of time, Burg Eltz has never succumbed to destruction and has remained remarkably unchanged, offering visitors an authentic and well-preserved experience of medieval architecture and the enduring legacy of the Eltz family who have resided there since its inception.

Where is Burg Eltz in Germany

Burg Eltz is located in the Moselle region of western Germany, about 100 km west of Frankfurt and 40 km south of Koblenz. The castle is situated in a secluded valley near the village of Wierschem, on the banks of the Elzbach river. The nearest towns are Cochem and Mayen, which are both about 20 km away.

How to go to Burg Eltz in Germany

The easiest way to go to Burg Eltz is by car. You can drive from Frankfurt or Koblenz on the A48 motorway and take the exit for Mayen. Then follow the signs for Burg Eltz on the L98 road. There is a large parking lot near the castle entrance, where you can park your car for a small fee.

If you prefer public transportation, you can take a train from Frankfurt or Koblenz to Moselkern or Treis-Karden, which are both about 10 km from the castle. From there, you can take a bus or a taxi to Burg Eltz. Alternatively, you can hike from Moselkern or Treis-Karden to Burg Eltz along scenic trails that take about 1.5 hours each way.

In resume, to reach Burg Eltz in Germany, you can follow these general directions:

Burg Eltz is located in the Mosel Valley between Koblenz and Trier. If you have a car, you can drive to the castle.
Use a navigation system or GPS and enter the address: Burg Eltz, 56294 Wierschem, Germany.
There are parking facilities available, and from the parking lot, it’s a scenic walk through the forest to reach the castle.
Take a train to either Koblenz or Trier, which are major cities in the region.
From Koblenz or Trier, you can then take a regional train or bus to Moselkern.
From Moselkern, it’s about a 5 km walk to the castle, or you can take a taxi or shuttle bus during the tourist season.
During the tourist season, guided tours are available from nearby towns or cities. Check with local tour operators or tourist information centers for organized trips to Burg Eltz.

Before planning your trip, it’s advisable to check for any changes in transportation options, opening hours of the castle, and any other relevant information. Always consider the most recent and reliable sources for updated details on your journey to Burg Eltz.

Compare and book flights to find the best deals and options!

What are the best times to visit Burg Eltz in Germany

The best times to visit Burg Eltz are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the nature is colorful. The castle is open from April to November, from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm daily. You can join a guided tour of the castle interior, which lasts about 40 minutes and costs 10 euros per person. The tour is available in German and English, and covers some of the most impressive rooms and collections of the castle, such as the Knights’ Hall, the Treasury and the Armoury.

The castle exterior is also worth exploring, as it offers stunning views of the valley and the river. You can walk around the castle walls and admire its architecture and details. You can also visit the chapel, which dates back to the 15th century and features beautiful stained glass windows and paintings.

Where to stay near Burg Eltz in Germany – Best Areas and Region ( Best Resort, hotel, hostel and Bed & Breakfast )

If you want to stay near Burg Eltz, you have several options depending on your budget and preferences. You can choose from hotels, hostels, bed and breakfasts or campsites in the nearby towns and villages.

One of the best areas to stay near Burg Eltz is Cochem , which is a charming town on the Moselle river with a picturesque old town and a hilltop castle. Cochem has many accommodation options for all budgets and tastes, such as:

Hotel Zehnthof : This is a cozy hotel with modern rooms overlooking the river or the vineyards. It has a restaurant, a bar and a terrace where you can enjoy your breakfast or a drink.
Moselstern Hotel Brixiade & Triton : This is a four-star hotel with spacious rooms and suites with balconies or terraces facing the river or the castle. It has a spa, a pool, a sauna and a fitness center where you can relax after a day of sightseeing.
Hostel Cochem : This is a budget-friendly hostel with dorms and private rooms with shared bathrooms. It has a common kitchen, a lounge area and a garden where you can meet other travelers.
Ferienhaus Am Reilsbach : This is a comfortable bed and breakfast with bright rooms with private bathrooms. It has a garden with barbecue facilities where you can enjoy your meals.

Another good area to stay near Burg Eltz is Mayen , which is a historic town with a medieval center and a castle. Mayen has some nice accommodation options, such as:

Hotel Jägerhof : This is a family-run hotel with cozy rooms with private bathrooms. It has a restaurant, a bar and a terrace where you can taste local dishes and wines.
Hotel Pension zum dicken Baum : This is a quaint hotel with rustic rooms with private bathrooms. It has a breakfast room where you can start your day with a hearty meal.
EifelAdventures : This is a unique accommodation option where you can stay in a treehouse, a yurt or a tipi. It has a shared bathroom, a kitchen and a lounge area where you can enjoy the nature and the adventure.
Campingplatz Laacher See : This is a scenic campsite near the Laacher See lake, where you can pitch your tent or rent a caravan. It has a restaurant, a shop and a playground where you can have fun.

If you want to stay in a larger city, the two best are Frankfurt and Cologne. Regarding Cologne specifically, we have a very detailed analysis of the best region and the best hotels to stay in Cologne, Germany . Another city worth visiting and even staying in the region is Monschau .

Options for staying in the region can be found on the Booking.com website .

What to do in Burg Eltz in Germany

There are many things to do in Burg Eltz besides visiting the castle. You can also enjoy the nature, the culture and the history of the region. Here are some of the best activities to do in Burg Eltz:

Hike or bike along the Eltz Castle Panorama Trail: This is a 12 km circular trail that starts and ends at the castle parking lot. It offers panoramic views of the castle, the valley and the river. You can hike or bike along the trail, which is well-marked and suitable for all levels of fitness.
Visit the Eltz Forest : This is a nature reserve that surrounds the castle and covers an area of 320 hectares. It is home to many species of plants and animals, such as beech trees, orchids, deer and birds. You can explore the forest on foot or by horseback, and discover its natural beauty and diversity.
Explore the Moselle Valley : This is one of the most scenic regions in Germany, where the Moselle river flows through steep hills covered with vineyards and dotted with castles and villages. You can take a boat trip along the river, visit some of the charming towns such as Cochem, Beilstein and Bernkastel-Kues, or taste some of the famous wines of the region.
Learn about the history of Mayen : This is an ancient town that dates back to Roman times and has a rich heritage and culture. You can visit some of its attractions, such as the Genovevaburg Castle, which houses a museum of local history and art, the St. Clement’s Church, which features Gothic architecture and frescoes, or the Eifelmuseum, which showcases the geology and ecology of the Eifel region.

Top 10 Attractions in Burg Eltz in Germany

Burg Eltz is not only a historical treasure, but also a cultural and natural one. You can explore its rich history, admire its architecture and art, and enjoy its scenic location. Here are some of the best things to do and see in Burg Eltz, as well as some tips for planning your visit.

Monschau – Old Town Private Guided Tour – Walk on cobblestone streets besides beautiful half timbered houses, Explore the historic Old Town and its prominent attractions on foot. Learn more about the history of this medieval fairytale town.

If you are looking for the best attractions in Burg Eltz, here are some of the highlights that you should not miss:

The Castle Tour : The highlight of any visit to Burg Eltz is the guided tour of the castle. You can choose from three different tours, each focusing on a different part of the castle and its history. You will see the impressive rooms, halls, and chambers, decorated with original furniture, paintings, weapons, and armor. You will also learn about the lives of the noble families who lived here over the centuries.
The Treasury and Armory : If you want to see more of the castle’s treasures, you can visit the treasury and armory, which display a collection of gold, silver, jewels, porcelain, and other precious items. You can also see some of the oldest and rarest weapons and armor in Europe, dating back to the 12th century.
The Rodendorf Kitchen : One of the most fascinating parts of the castle is the Rodendorf kitchen, which shows how the castle’s inhabitants cooked and ate in the Middle Ages. You can see the original fireplace, oven, pots, pans, utensils, and dishes. You can also smell the herbs and spices that were used to flavor the food.
The Chapel : The chapel of Burg Eltz is a beautiful example of Gothic architecture, with its vaulted ceiling, stained glass windows, and carved altar. It is also a place of worship, where regular services are held. You can admire the paintings and sculptures that depict scenes from the Bible and the lives of the saints.
The Eltz Forest : The castle is surrounded by a natural reserve called the Eltz Forest, which covers an area of about 32 square kilometers. It is home to a variety of plants and animals, including some rare species. You can hike through the forest on marked trails, or join a guided nature walk with a ranger.
The Eltz Stream : The Eltz Stream is a small river that flows through the valley below the castle. It is a popular spot for fishing, picnicking, and relaxing. You can also cross the stream on a wooden bridge or a suspension bridge, which offer great views of the castle and the forest.
The Ring Wall : The ring wall is a defensive wall that encircles the castle and its grounds. It was built in several stages from the 13th to the 17th century, and it has several towers and gates along its length. You can walk along the wall and enjoy panoramic views of the valley and the hills.
The Knight’s Hall : The Knight’s Hall is one of the largest and most impressive rooms in the castle. It was used for ceremonies, banquets, and entertainment by the lords of Eltz. It features a high ceiling with wooden beams, a large fireplace, a long table with benches, and a gallery with portraits of the family members.
The Hunting Room : The Hunting Room is another impressive room in the castle, where you can see how the lords of Eltz enjoyed hunting as a sport and a hobby. It displays various hunting trophies, such as antlers, horns, skins, and stuffed animals. It also has some hunting weapons and equipment, such as crossbows, guns, knives, and traps.
The Gift Shop : If you want to buy some souvenirs or gifts from your visit to Burg Eltz, you can stop by the gift shop near the entrance of the castle. It sells a range of items related to the castle and its history, such as books, postcards, magnets, mugs, t-shirts, hats, jewelry, and more.

Tip itineraries for 1 day to visit the Burg Eltz in Germany

There are different ways to reach Burg Eltz, depending on where you are coming from and how you want to travel. You can drive, take a train, or hike.

Once you reach the castle, you can buy your ticket at the entrance. The admission fee is 11 euros per person for adults, and 6.50 euros per person for children and students. The ticket includes a guided tour of the castle interior, which lasts about 40 minutes. The tour is available in German and English, and it covers some of the most interesting rooms and halls of the castle, such as the knights’ hall, the treasury, the chapel, and the bedrooms. You will also learn about the history and architecture of the castle, as well as some stories and legends about its owners and guests.

After the tour, you can explore the castle grounds on your own. You can admire the exterior of the castle from different angles and take some photos. You can also visit the museum, which displays some of the original furniture, weapons, armor, paintings, and other artifacts from the castle’s collection. The museum is open from April to November, from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.

Where to eat in Burg Eltz in Germany – Tips for bars and restaurants

One of the best things about visiting Burg Eltz is that you can enjoy some delicious local cuisine in the nearby towns and villages. Whether you are looking for a cozy pub, a traditional restaurant, or a modern cafe, you will find something to suit your taste and budget.

If you want to eat at the castle, you can go to the Burgschenke restaurant, which is located inside the castle courtyard. It serves traditional German food, such as schnitzel, sausages, salads, soups, and cakes. It also offers a variety of drinks, such as beer, wine, coffee, tea, and soft drinks. The restaurant is open from April to November, from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm.
In Wierschem , you can go to Landhaus Neuhof, which is a cozy hotel and restaurant that serves regional cuisine, such as game dishes, trout, lamb, and cheese. It also has a terrace with a view of Burg Eltz. The restaurant is open from Tuesday to Sunday, from 11:30 am to 9:00 pm.
In Müden , you can go to Gasthaus zur Post, which is a rustic inn and restaurant that serves local specialties, such as pork knuckle, potato pancakes, and apple strudel. It also has a beer garden with a view of the Eltzbach stream. The restaurant is open from Wednesday to Monday, from 11:00 am to 10:00 pm.
In Moselkern , you can go to Hotel-Restaurant Ringelsteiner Mühle, which is a historic mill and restaurant that serves fresh fish, meat, and vegetarian dishes. It also has a garden with a view of the forest and the stream. The restaurant is open from Monday to Sunday, from 11:30 am to 9:00 pm.

Key tips and practical information of Burg Eltz in Germany

Here are some key tips and practical information that you should know before visiting Burg Eltz in Germany:

The castle is open from April to November, from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm. The last admission is at 4:30 pm. The castle is closed from December to March, except for some special events and occasions.
The guided tour of the castle interior is mandatory, and it starts every 10 to 15 minutes. You cannot visit the castle interior on your own. The tour lasts about 40 minutes, and it is available in German and English. You can also rent an audio guide in other languages, such as French, Spanish, Italian, Dutch, Russian, Japanese, or Chinese, for an extra fee of 2 euros per person.
The castle is not wheelchair accessible, and it has many stairs and narrow passages. It is also not suitable for strollers or large bags. You can leave your belongings at the cloakroom near the entrance for free.
The castle does not allow photography or video recording inside the castle interior. You can only take photos or videos outside the castle or in the museum.
The castle does not have a gift shop, but you can buy some souvenirs, such as postcards, magnets, books, or DVDs, at the ticket office near the entrance.
What to bring. Burg Eltz is located in a rural area, so you should bring some essentials for your visit. You should wear comfortable shoes and clothes that are suitable for walking and hiking. You should also bring some water and snacks, as there are no shops or vending machines at the castle. You should also bring some cash, as there are no ATMs or card machines at the castle. You should also bring your camera or phone to capture some amazing photos of the castle and its surroundings. There is no Wi-Fi or cell phone reception, so you may want to download or print your tickets and information beforehand.

Burg Eltz is one of the most beautiful and impressive castles in Germany, and it is worth a visit if you are interested in history, culture, or architecture. It is also a great place to enjoy nature and relax.

Have fun and enjoy your trip!

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The Ultimate Guide To Visiting The Fairytale Burg Eltz Castle

Last Updated On: September 10, 2023

Germany is the land of castles with no mistake but not all castles are created equal. Living in Frankfurt affords me the convenience of popping in on my favorite fairy tale castle for the day like this one in Cochem . After talking to some locals, they told me I had to head a few towns down to a much more picturesque and quaint castle at Burg Eltz. Locals always know best and I was not disappointed.

This is without a doubt one of the most idyllic castles in Europe, and lesser known that the ultimate Disney castle in the Neuschwanstein in Southern Bavaria . It’s nestled deep into the woods atop a 75m high rock surrounded by nothing but forest. When you think of beautiful, mysterious, romantic castles, this has to be near the top of the list. We came here after spending the morning and afternoon in the equally as beautiful town of Cochem along the Mosel river .

In fact, every village along the Mosel just screams cute with their churches, traditional houses, vineyards, castles on the top of a hill, and the surrounding greenery. I’ve written about them in detail and overall, the Rhineland Pfalz part of Germany is just simply fantastic.

HISTORY OF BURG ELTZ

This medieval castle was built in the 12th century and has been owned by the same family for over 850 years. The castle was named after the stream Eltzbach, which in old German Els/Else is the name for Black Alder a tree that is found along the river.

Eltz is one of only three castles on the left bank of the Rhine River that hasn’t been destroyed over the centuries. Construction started in 1157 and building lasted 500 years, with ongoing maintenance to keep the castle up. There are over 100 rooms in the castle for family members, staff, and guests.

Nowadays, the descendants of the original owners still own this castle today. The owner does not live there full time but rather in Frankfurt. What they do with it outside of tourist hours is beyond me but I’m sure it would make for epic get togethers and events.

What to know before visiting Burg Eltz

The Burg Eltz is open from 9:30am but that doesn’t mean the surrounding areas are closed. You can park here at any time of the day and walk to the front entrance of the castle. While you can’t go inside, you can marvel at the beauty of this castle from all angles and take amazing photos with the morning sunlight.

This is the best way to get the crowds (visiting before or after it’s closed) depending on the images you want to get. The sun rises at 5am in the summer so you have plenty of time to plan and visit Burg Eltz before it opens.

No drones are allowed in Burg Eltz

I wish I could have flown my drown in Burg Eltz as I’m sure it would have produced incredible photos but alas it is totally banned. There are signs everywhere telling you not to fly your drone so don’t do it. I have seen some people fly their drones but do not make it worse for every one else!

There are restaurants in the Burg Eltzcastle

There are two restaurants in Burg Eltz Castle. One is a proper restaurant serving German favorites like schnitzel and flammkuchen. The other restaurant is more of a white bar serving beers, wines, and wursts.

Both restaurants open and close around the same time the castle is. Both restaurants are reasonably priced which is great considering they could totally take advantage of people at an establishment like this.

Guided Tours of Burg Eltz

Visitors can take a guided tour of the castle, which includes the Great Hall, the Knight’s Hall, the Chapel, and the Arms Room. You’ll also get to see the castle’s magnificent gardens and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

The guided castle tour is only available between April and October and the run all throughout the day. The cost is roughly €10 per person and tours are available in German and English.

Getting to Burg Eltz

There’s not many castles like the Burg Eltz being located in the middle of the forest away from society. There are a variety of ways to access it”

The easiest way is certainly to drive to the Burg Eltz. Just input the address into Google Maps and you’ll be there without much fuss. Once you arrive at the parking lot, you will need to pay a €2 fee to park. From the parking lot, it is a short 600m walk to the base of the castle. This is by far the quickest and easiest way to get to the Burg Eltz.

The train is the perfect method for those looking to day trip it from Cologne, Koblenz, Frankfurt etc. or for those that just don’t have cars. The train does not stop at the castle (it is in the middle of the woods after all) but rather to a nearby train station where you’ll then have to take a bus. In the summer months, the Burgen bus shuttle will take you from the Treis-Karden train station on the Moselle to the castle.

The bus only runs 4x a day so make sure you align your times properly otherwise you will be waiting for a long time. This shuttle is free of charge for those with train tickets.

Hiking to the Burg Eltz

Hiking the Burg Eltz is the perfect way to spend an afternoon in Germany. There are many ways to get to the castle depending on your starting point and many of the routes offer amazing views of the nearby forests and vineyards.

The award-winning dream hike “Eltz Castle Panorama” (12.6 km, 5 hours) One of the most beautiful hikes in the Rhineland-Palatinate takes you around Eltz Castle, through the Eltzbach Valley, the Eltz Forest and the southern rises of the Maifeld.

“Up the Romantic Eltz Stream” (2.5 km, approx. 35 minutes) This trail starts at the Ringelsteiner Mühle in Moselkern and in a light to medium ascent follows the Eltzbach through the nature reserve Eltz Forest to Eltz Castle. This is ultimately the one we did because it was the quickest route from the Moselkern train station.

“From Müdener Berg to Eltz Castle” (1.7 km, approx. 35 minutes) This beautiful and sporty route is only for seasoned hikers. It is very steep in parts, but offers a unique view of the two castles Eltz and Pyrmont.

“From Karden to Eltz Castle” (7 km, 2 hours) This challenging route is for seasoned hikers only. It takes you to Eltz Castle from Karden through vineyards, meadows and forests, offering spectacular views of the Moselle, the Hunsrück and Maifeld.

“From Pyrmont Castle to Eltz Castle” (9.5 km, 2.5 hours) This hike between the two castles Pyrmont and Eltz reveals all the beauty of the Eltz Valley. Tipp: On weekends and public holidays there is a shuttle bus between these two neighbouring castles.

Hiking the Burg Eltz From Moselkern

As we were complete amateurs with our planning, we wanted to take the train + bus but did not research beforehand and took the train to Moselkern instead of Treis-Karden. We quickly realized no bus was coming, and there were no taxis around so we had to go by foot. It was already 4pm by this point and the prospect of hiking 75 minutes after having already drank so much Reisling in Cochem was unappealing. To make matters worse, there was a little wine festival happening in the town of Moselkern where we would have happily continued drinking our Reisling.

Castle or reisling was what it came down to. Oh Germany, how you make life so difficult for your visitors. In the end, we sucked it up and started walking.

Starting in Moselkern, which itself is a quaint little village, there are signs clearly marking the path for the Burg Eltz. As soon as you exit the Moselkern train station, you cannot get lost.

The hike from the train station takes about 70 to 80 minutes in total. It is quite an easy hike as most of it is flat. It’s certainly not the most scenic hike Germany has to offer but it is a great way to get to the castle if you are like us forgetting to do any sort of planning.

What To Do When You Arrive in Burg Eltz

After our unexpected 80 minute hike, we reached the castle and immediately went to the cafe in the castle for some refreshments., aka water and more wine. Not every day that you can drink wine inside a castle.

You can’t always guarantee when the next English-speaking tour will be taking place. It appears that they only take place if there is enough interest for them, we were lucky that even though we arrived late, there were enough people wanting an English Tour.

The tour was informative and took us through some lovely parts of the inside of the castle (unfortunately, no photos are allowed). The castle remains in it’s natural state as it avoided destruction over the centuries through various mechanisms. The tour is a bit short but is well worth the €8. We spent the rest of the time drinking more wine and walking around the castle grounds. By 6:00pm, most people had left the castle and we went outside to take some photos of the castle!

Best time of year to visit the Burg Eltz castle

The castle is open year round with visiting hours from 9:30am to 5:30pm. It can be visited year round and there’s no bad time to come. Each season will provide a different picture and I fully plan to revisit in the fall with the changing leaves as well as the winter for the prospect of seeing this castle covered in snow!

How to take the best photos of the castle

I’m perhaps one of the few bloggers that do not care about Instagram but I know how things go nowadays and many travelers need to take the best shots for the Gram. So if you’re looking to take that majestic, back to the camera shot with nobody in the photo like you own the castle, then simply do these things.

Visit in the morning before they open, or after they close

During the day time, hordes of tour buses come and go so this place will be packed. As soon as the castle closes, the crowds thin out quickly. The secret is the road leaving up to the castle is open 24/7 and the pathway into the castle is accessible at all times. This is where you’ll take the best pictures anyway with the castle in the background.

The sun rises well before 9:30am and sets well after 5:30 in the summer months so you’ll have plenty of time to take some fantastic photos. I left around 6:30pm and the only people left were others looking to do photo shoots. I’m talking people that brought change of clothes and a photographer to get their modern day princess in their castle shot. Oh Instagram…

Burg Eltz Castle in the fall

I came back to the Burg Eltz a few times because nothing screams Germany and castles more than the Burg Eltz in my opinion. It is also a short drive away from my home in Frankfurt and makes for the perfect Castle to showcase to out of town visitors!

The fall months are absolutely stunning. As the castle is entirely surrounded by trees, the changing colors add a dramatic effect to the majestic castle. We came on a cloudy November day and the pictures were absolutely stunning. It is so different than visiting in the summer months but totally worth it in my opinion. The castle is closed during the late fall and winter months but you’re still free to walk around it and take as many pictures as you’d like.

Burg Eltz Castle in the Winter

I came again in the winter on Christmas Day. Unfortunately, the castle was under renovation so there was a ton of scaffolding which blocked out a bit of the charm. Nevertheless, still an amazing place to take photos like the below!

Combine Burg Eltz with nearby attractions

Burg Eltz is located 1.5 hours away from Frankfurt but there is so much to see here besides just the castle. In addition to drinking wine along the Mosel, there is plenty more to do including the Geierley suspension bridge, visiting the nearby city of Koblenz, and more.

Follow my day trip from Frankfurt of the Rheinland Pfalz itinerary to plan your trip to Burg Eltz and more!

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Visiting the Eltz Castle in Germany

Christopher Larson / TripSavvy

Burg Eltz, or Eltz Castle, is one of the most charming castles in all of Germany. It lies in the west of Germany , between Koblenz and Trier , and is surrounded on three sides by the Moselle River. Visitors are immediately awed walking through the part in the trees and seeing the fairytale castle on a pedestal below.

Guests of the castle can explore parts of the Eltz family home. This family has resided in the castle since the 12th century for an impressive 33 generations.

Attractions of Burg Eltz

Visitors can walk the small grounds where the castle sits on an oval rock, 70 meters above the river in a valley. The castle's unique shape follows its unusual foundation.

Guided tours offer an overview of life in a castle with details like the medieval plaster, consisting of oxblood, animal hair, clay, quicklime and camphor. The castle is eight floors with eight turreted towers (at heights of 30 and 40 meters) and around 100 rooms.

The oldest part of the castle, still visible today, is the Romanesque keep, Platt-Eltz, as well as four stories of former Romanesque pallas (living quarters). The design was unusual in that almost half the rooms have fireplaces so every room could be heated - quite a luxury at the time. The castle also features the oldest painted chimney in Germany. Tours finish in the kitchen with its medieval refrigerator - a cupboard cut into the cool rock face.

Besides authentic medieval decor, Eltz Castle features a museum with an impressive collection of original furniture and artwork. The Knights Hall has armor dating back to the 16th century, and the original treasure vault is available to visit on your own between 09:30 and 18:00. If you are feeling peckish after a day at the castle, there is a restaurant and a castle shop for souvenirs.

Besides the castle itself, there are several hiking paths in the Eltz Woods . Athletic visitors can even hike to nearby Burg Pyrmont (2.5-hour hike). Despite its many unique elements, the Eltz Castle is still a bit of an insider tip and not nearly as crowded as other castles in Germany .

History of Eltz Castle

Eltz Castle is a masterpiece frozen in time. It was attacked only once but never taken, leaving it intact for visitors today.

The castle began as a deed of donation in 1157 by Emperor Frederick I Barbarossa with Rudolf von Eltz acting as a witness. It lay in a strategic location astride the Roman trade route from the Moselle Valley and the Eifel region and was created with the cooperation of three local lords from the historical families of Kempenich, Rubenach, and Rodendorf. The first part of the construction was the Platteltz keep with the Rübenach section added in 1472. In 1490-1540 the Rodendorf section was added and in 1530 the Kempenich section was built. It is essentially three castle in one.

In 1815 the separate lives of the castle were finally united under the House of the Golden Lion (the Kempenich descendants) who had outlived their fellow castle owners.

Visitor Information

Address: Burg Eltz, 56294 Münstermaifeld
From the parking lot, you can either walk up the hill to the castle or take a shuttle bus (€1.50).
Good base cities : Koblenz & Trier
Website : http://burg-eltz.de/en/

Tours of Eltz Castle

German guided tours begin every 10-15 minutes and takes 35 — 40 minutes. English, French and Dutch tours are available by prior arrangement (call the castellan’s office ). The maximum waiting time is usually 30 minutes. Various language information sheets are available for those wanting to accompany a German tour.

Note that photography of the rooms and chambers is verboten (forbidden).

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Complete Guide To Visiting Burg Eltz In Germany

Burg Eltz is probably one of the most magical castles, not only in Germany but in the world! Sometimes even called the Harry Potter castle, this place could feature perfectly in any fairytale.

Its rich history, incredible location and quite remarkable architecture make this one of the absolute must-visits in the region!

To make the most out of your visit to Brug Eltz, it is important to make sure you’re fully prepared. Not only to make sure that you avoid the big crowds but also for other practical reasons.

Luckily, this is exactly the goal of this blog post!

I hope to give you the best information about Burg Eltz in order to make your visit run as smoothly as possible. So let’s dive into it!

Practicalities

Getting to castle eltz.

If you don’t have a car, it will be difficult to reach Castle Eltz. If you come by car, you can park it at the parking lot reserved for the castle, although it will still be a 1.3 km walk (or shuttle bus) to the entrance.

It is possible to reach Burg Eltz by train via Moselkern Station but then it is still a 5 km walk to the castle. Luckily, during weekends and holidays (from May to October), the Burgenbus will take you from the train station of Hatzenport or Treis-Karden directly to the castle parking.

If you’re discovering the region by bike, you can also take the Burgenbus from either of these 2 places, plus Moselkern and Mueden, with your bike, since the bus has a trailer especially for bikes!

Of course, there are also cycling and hiking routes going directly to the castle without you being required to take a bus.

Burg Eltz parking

When visiting Brug Eltz by car, camper or bus, the place you’ll likely end up at is the castle’s parking. This parking is paid for but you can stay there for as long as you want since there is no time limit on your visit.

Campers/trailers: €4

Of course, from the parking lot, you still need to get to the castle, which can be done in two different ways.

Either you go on foot, taking a 1.3 km hike, or you can take the shuttle bus, costing you €2 per trip. I personally loved the short walk, so if you have the possibility I would recommend this!

However, if you want to have a great view of the castle from above, on the shuttle bus route, there is a great viewpoint as well (see picture below)! Note that the shuttle bus doesn’t stop there so you should walk your way there.

Admission fee

Visiting the castle is not free, however, admiring the castle or taking photos in front of the castle is ;).

The general admission fee is €14. Luckily, there are also several discounts for students (€7), large families, groups etc.

To find the up-to-date information, take a look at the official website of Burg Eltz !

Best time to visit

What is the best time to visit, is a very tricky question. When it comes to seasons, I do believe that fall is the best time to go, since the forest around the castle will be indulged in magnificent colours.

In addition, I would advise visiting outside of official holidays, preferably on a weekday and as early as possible to avoid the crowds.

When I visited, there was still a maximum capacity in terms of visitors so showing up early makes you avoid waiting in line until it’s your turn to go in (and the line can be long)!

Regular opening hours are from 9:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m.

So, now that we’ve discussed all the practicalities it is time to talk a little bit more about what you’ll actually get as value for money ;).

The castle tour

When entering the castle, you should make your way up to the courtyard where all the tours start. They provide tours in both German as well as English, so don’t worry if you don’t master the local tongue. Such a tour takes approximately 40 minutes .

The tour guide will take you through the different halls and rooms in the castle, which are decorated like they used to be hundreds of years ago. You’ll get to know stories about the family who still owns the castle as well as more information about how their life and habits looked like at that time.

I found it really interesting to hear about all the anecdotes that the guide was telling as well as admiring the original furniture that is on display!

The only remark I can give is that the German accent of the guide was quite strong so that it was difficult at times to understand him.

In addition to the tour, your ticket also provides you access to the treasury , where a collection of historical items is displayed to the public. Definitely worth checking out as well!

Taking pictures – avoiding the crowds

Castle Eltz is not only a great place to visit for historical reasons, but it is also one of the most insta-famous spots in Germany!

And there’s a good reason for that, I mean, look at its beauty!

But how do you actually take the best pictures while avoiding all the crowds?

Well, when I visited during the day, I realised it was impossible to do a proper shoot without a line of people waiting to get into the castle. So I returned after closing time (together with my boyfriend who took the pictures).

Initially, we were worried that the parking lot would have been closed off but this was totally not the case. We could just drive up and take the usual walking path down to the castle.

There are 3 beautiful spots when it comes to taking pictures at Burg Eltz. The first one is located on the walking trail just when you cross a corner and the castle comes in view. The second one is right in front of the castle, and the third one is located on the asphalt road where the shuttle bus drives. Halfway, you’ll have a little viewpoint that shows you the castle from above.

At these spots, before opening or after closure you’ll have the best chances at taking beautiful pictures of the castle!

Hiking around Castle Eltz

Many hiking routes pass by castle Eltz, which you’ll notice from the signs that are located near the castle.

So if you don’t want to come by car and pay a parking fee, or you want to combine a visit with something more adventurous, hiking to the castle might be the perfect option for you!

The options range from hikes of less than 2 km to hikes up to 13 km and you can find a nice overview of the hikes leading to the castle on its website .

Highly recommended though is the Eltz Castle Panorama Trail which takes you on a tour over the Mosel plateau. This hike is about 12,6 km long and will take you 4 hours to complete, starting in Wierschem.

Burg Eltz History

If you’re still interested in the history of Castle Eltz, here is a bit of information.

Burg Eltz has been around for about 850 years, and remarkably, in all this time the castle hasn’t been destroyed once (which is quite unusual for castles). Moreover, it is still in possession of the same family who originally built it! The current owner is Dr. Karl Graf von und zu Eltz-Kempenich.

Because of a dispute in the family in the year 1268, the castle was split into 3 parts, in each part living a separate branch of the family. Moreover, that family has brought forth several remarkable individuals who greatly influenced the history of the region around Eltz.

If you’d like to know all the details year by year, I’d highly recommend you to take a look at the full history here !

I really hope that I was able to convince you to visit Burg Eltz on one of your next trips to Germany and I hope you have enough information by now to plan your trip successfully!

If you’ve visited the castle, I’d also love to hear what you thought about it so feel free to drop a comment below and let me know your thoughts!

A Guide on the Fairytale Castle Burg Eltz in Germany

Updated: Dec 3, 2023

This post includes affiliate links. If you choose to make a purchase through these links, I may earn a commission at no additional cost to you. Thank you!

Have you ever come across those enchanting Instagram photos of castles perched high on a hill, their towers reaching for the skies? Burg Eltz is precisely that fairytale castle, a fortress untouched by the ravages of war, all thanks to the extensive political and social networks of the Eltz family. Nestled in Wierschem, Germany, this castle appears as if it's stepped straight out of a cinematic masterpiece, proudly gracing the hills overlooking the Moselle River, between the cities of Koblenz and Trier.

History of Burg Eltz

Remarkably, this private estate has remained under the careful stewardship of the Eltz family, who originally erected their residence on this very spot nearly a millennium ago. As time passed, the Eltz family expanded their abode within the castle complex, including the completion of the Rübenach house in 1472, the addition of Rodendorf in 1540, and the replacem ent of the original hall with Kempenich in 1615. Since 1815, Count Karl has retained sole ownership of the entire castle complex, preserving its rich history and captivating allure. Allow me to be your castle guide to Burg Eltz's magical world! Explore this castle's rich history, stunning views, and captivating rooms. Let's embark on this adventure together.

How to Reach

During our visit to Burg Eltz, we had the pleasure of staying in a charming hotel in Koblenz, adding to the fairytale ambiance of our journey. To reach Burg Eltz from Koblenz without a car, the most convenient option is to take a combination of train and the 365 bus route, a journey that takes approximately 1 hour and 36 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from €8 to €13.

The closest train stations to Burg Eltz are Treis-Karden and Hatzenport, both of which offer convenient access. However, it's important to note that there's still a 5 km walk to the castle from these stations. Fortunately, during weekends and holidays (from May to October), visitors can hop on the Burgenbus directly from the Hatzenport or Treis-Karden train stations, which transports them directly to the castle's parking area.

For those with a car, reaching the castle is even more straightforward. From the castle's parking area, you can enjoy a leisurely downhill stroll to the castle itself. During our visit, we opted to walk with our children, and the journey to the castle took just 10 minutes. On our return, we chose the forest path, a gentle 15-minute walk. Meanwhile, some of the elderly visitors, including our parents, preferred the convenience of the shuttle service. Walking not only allows you to admire the castle from a distance but also provides the perfect opportunity to capture its majestic presence amidst the lush greenery of the surrounding valleys, making for a truly surreal photography experience.

Hiking to History: Discovering Burg Eltz on Foot

Shuttle Transfer from Parking to Castle

Upon reaching the parking area, you'll find a shuttle service readily available to transport you directly to the castle entrance. This convenient shuttle service comes at a cost of €2 per person, payable to the bus driver, who will then allocate tickets based on the mini-bus's capacity.

Tickets and Castle Tour

As you step inside the castle grounds, you'll immediately spot a ticket counter situated right in front, adjacent to a structure resembling a watchtower. Here, you can purchase tickets for the castle. The ticket price encompasses a guided tour of the castle and grants you access to the armoury. Guided tours are conducted in both English and German, with tours alternating every 20 minutes. To join the guided tour, simply queue up in the inner courtyard.

Joining the Castle Tour Queue to unveil the Secrets of Burg Eltz

Cafe and Restaurant

On the right side of the watchtower, you'll find the entrance to the primary castle building. Meanwhile, on the left side, you'll be greeted by expansive views of the valleys below. Descending a flight of stairs leads you to a delightful terrace cafe, offering a perfect spot to savor coffee, pastries, and bagels for a light lunch.

Additionally, there's another cafe situated at the main castle entrance, offering a menu quite similar to the terrace cafe. However, this cafe provides slightly heartier options, such as lentil soup and sausages, for those seeking more substantial fare.

The Castle Tour

The rübenach house.

The Rubenach house is an 8-storey house. When it was turn for our tour, the guide first took us into the armoury room which is today the entrance hall of the house. Here all the weaponry and armory was displayed, which ideally would’ve been displayed elsewhere in the medieval era. You will notice the armor of the soldiers of the 15th and 16th centuries. They were short in height and not very well built. This is also prominent from the height of the doors of the castle. Keep an eye out for the intricately crafted fish bone dagger hanging on the wall just above the doorway. The room also exhibited arrow-like bolts, a collection of matchlocks and flintlocks, various hacking and thrusting weapons, as well as an assortment of oriental weapons dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries, among other fascinating artifacts.

Note: It's important to note that photography was prohibited beyond this point, and any online images of these rooms by tourists indicate a disregard for these rules.

The living room (lower hall)

Upon entering this room, you'll immediately notice a grand fireplace and substantial oak beams. Interestingly, this fireplace is just one of approximately 40 fireplaces found throughout the entire castle. This abundance of fireplaces provides a glimpse into the opulent lifestyle of the castle's owners during the 14th to 16th centuries. In those times, it was a luxury for most households to have only one fireplace for their entire dwelling. However, despite the presence of numerous fireplaces, the living room's thick, dense walls posed a challenge for efficient heating. To counter this, the walls were adorned with exquisite Flemish tapestries, which served both functional and aesthetic purposes. These tapestries featured original paintings by artists of that era, intricately woven into rugs. The paintings depicted exotic wildlife in lush, imaginary forests, inspired by travelers' tales rather than direct observation. Additionally, a unique feature in the room was a small toilet, one of 20 such facilities in the castle. Notably, the room's paintings were primarily done on oak rather than canvas, adding to their historical significance.

The bedroom (upper hall)

The adjoining room was the master bedroom, where a bed dating back to 1520 took center stage, elevated on a platform with several steps. Remarkably, the ceiling still retained its original 15th-century paintings and murals, although they were concealed under whitewash during the 16th century. These remarkable artworks remained hidden for nearly 300 years, contributing to their remarkably well-preserved condition. Within this room, a small chapel dedicated to the Virgin Mary occupied a bay window. This placement was deliberate, as the church had regulations against people residing in rooms directly above an altar. A distinctive 3D painting adorned the walls, offering a unique visual experience. Here, you'll also find one of the castle's 20 toilets, a testament to historical ingenuity. In those days, rainwater was cleverly collected for flushing, and cabbage leaves served as the preferred cleaning material, replacing modern toilet paper. Additionally, two other rooms were present, a writing room and a changing room, although these were off-limits to tourists.

Moving from one house to the other…

The Rodendorf House

The Rodendorf house was a 10-storey house built in the mid-16th century by its owners Wilhelm von Eltz and his wife Katarina. Earlier the two houses used to be independent. Now they are joined by a staircase which was constructed in the 19th century.

The office (Elector’s room)

Upon entering this room, your attention will likely be drawn to the decorative Chinaware pots and a baroque-style South German cupboard. Historically, this room was known as the 'electors' room' due to its significance in the lives of two prominent Eltz family members: Jakob III, Archbishop of Trier, and Philip Karl, Archbishop of Mainz. Both held influential roles as electors, responsible for choosing the Holy Roman Emperor, who also assumed the title of the German king. Portraits of these notable electors grace the walls of this room, preserving their legacy. Additionally, a renowned tapestry crafted by the van Der Brueggen brothers in Brussels adorns this space, adding to its historical richness.

The Great Hall

This was the largest room in the castle. The treasure boxes which had complicated locking system was an interesting feature in this room. Visitors gawked at the intricacy of their locking system. The room had fool masks on the walls - at 3 places to indicate freedom of speech to everyone inside this room. And the rose carved into the lintel above the heavy ornate door indicated talks in this room had to be kept a secret and couldn’t leave this room. There is also an armour on display that was made to fit an extremely tall person from the 19th century. The armour weighs 60 pounds.

The other chambers within this house included a dedicated hunting room , where a diverse collection of hunted animal horns, skins, an array of rifles, guns, and various hunting equipment were proudly displayed. The room exuded such pride that it left me feeling somewhat humbled, prompting me to swiftly proceed to the next area. The Wamboldt Room, functioning as an 18th-century housewife's workroom , featured essentials like a wool reel, a spinning wheel, and a laundry press, catering to the needs of the lady of the house. Moving along, I encountered the Countesses' room , named after the 18th-century young ladies whose portraits adorned the walls. This room doubled as a bedroom, and it showcased an extraordinary piece – the oldest painted Renaissance bed in all of Germany, a truly remarkable sight. My journey continued into the chapel, a space believed to have served as a place of worship. Here, the original flooring from the 15th century, composed of baked brick tiles, remained remarkably preserved. An impressive and colorful 19th-century stove, modeled after a 16th-century Nuremberg original, graced this room. It had been installed by the family to address the issue of excessive smoke generated by open wood-burning fireplaces within the house. The stove's operation was coordinated through an inlet from the adjoining kitchen.

Finally the most impressive room…The kitchen

Each of the individual residences within the castle compound boasts its own kitchen, and it's undoubtedly the most impressive part of the house. Here, skilled cooks once demonstrated their culinary expertise. Notably, the dishwashing area featured a drainage outlet that led water down into the valley. However, in cases where additional water was needed, laborious trips down to the valley were required to fetch it—an exhausting task to envision! The presence of a substantial chimney served the purpose of smoking meats suspended from the ceiling. A unique detail we observed was a built-in shelf on the wall, which served as a rudimentary refrigerator in bygone times, effectively keeping contents cool and fresh. The bread oven, a notable feature, was constructed using tufa, a soft volcanic stone.

Once you exit the kitchen, it leads you to a small flight of stairs that takes you to the open courtyard. From here you are directed to the armory.

Armory and Treasure chamber

The same tickets apply to the armory and treasure chamber that apply for the tour of the castle. This two-story museum within the armory and treasure chamber is home to a rich collection of antiquities dating back to the early 15th century. Among its treasures are Chinese ceramics, a diverse array of firearms, exquisite gold and bronze jewelry, masterful silver-smithing, intricately carved ivory pieces, elegant glassware, fine porcelain, and a wide range of other remarkable artifacts.

Closing Thoughts

As I wrap up this blog post, my heartfelt wish is that it has ignited a spark of inspiration within you. I hope it's encouraged you to plan your very own adventure to Burg Eltz and discover the magic that resides within its ancient walls. A quick tip from The Morning Brew - simply indulge in a coffee at one of its delightful cafes, Burg Eltz guarantees an experience that will stay etched in your memory!

Hope you find yourself enchanted by places as extraordinary as Burg Eltz.

If you enjoyed reading my blog post about Burg Eltz, please show your appreciation by giving it a thumbs-up and subscribing for more exciting travel updates. Feel free to share this post with your friends and family too. If you have any questions or need more information about Burg Eltz or any other travel-related inquiries, please don't hesitate to reach out. Here's to wishing you safe and magical adventures, just like the enchanting charm of Burg Eltz!

Historical Hideaways

1 comentário

Amazing.. I love the detailed explanation of each room you have given. Cant wait to head there soon..

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Things to Know Before Visiting Burg Eltz, Germany

The Medieval Burg Eltz has inspired artists and musicians for centuries

If there is one castle in Germany that can rival the iconic Neuschwanstein Castle, it’s Burg Eltz. This ridiculously-stunning castle seems to have been plucked straight out of the Disney-induced fantasies of children everywhere. If you’re planning a trip, take a look at our need-to-know guide.

Burg Eltz is located in Wierschem, a municipality belonging to the district of Mayen-Koblenz in the West German state of Rhineland-Palatinate . What sets Burg Eltz apart from most of the famous fairytale castles in Germany is that it doesn’t crown a hilltop. Instead, it perches on a rock spur by the Elzbach River, wrapped on all sides by the verdant Eltz Forest.

Burg Eltz 1, Wierschem, Germany , +49 2672 95050-0

Eltz castle gates and fortification side view

If you’re coming by car or motorbike, you can park your vehicle at the castle parking lot for a small fee. From there, an approximately 0.8 mi (1.3 km)-long footpath leads you to the castle. Another option is to take a shorter but much steeper walk up a private road. On weekends and holidays, a shuttle bus takes visitors back and forth from the parking lot at €2 (USD$2.30) per person. The great thing about walking this route is that the castle sort of sneaks up on you as you take the final turn along the winding road. And even though you would be expecting it all along, nothing can prepare you for the sheer breathtaking sight that the castle is. Seriously sporty travelers might even consider hiking to the castle .

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See privacy policy .

Opening times

Burg Eltz welcomes visitors from late March or early April to early November, daily from 9.30am to 5.30pm. Keep an eye on the official website for the exact dates, as they vary from year to year. Be prepared for long queues in peak season, afternoon being the busiest time of the day.

A guided tour of the castle, including a tour of the Treasury, is currently priced at €10 (USD$11.50) per adult. Discounts are available for children, students, disabled visitors, big groups and families. The castle courtyard can be explored without a ticket.

Rules and prohibitions

Though pets are allowed in the castle courtyard, they are not allowed inside the castle complex. Photography is strictly prohibited in the castle interior. But don’t be disappointed, as your photos with the mind-blowing castle facade as the backdrop are enough to set your Instagram profile on fire.

850 years of history

The beginning of the construction of Burg Eltz can be traced back to the 9th century. Currently, the castle is owned and maintained by the 33rd generation of the Eltz family. Down the centuries, while the castle has inspired many writers , poets and painters, it has also faced invasion and destruction attempts. When you visit, remember that you are walking the footsteps of kings and queens, knights, dukes and duchesses, princes and emperors. As Burg Eltz was one of the few significant architectures in Germany to escape destruction during World War II , travelers can still see much of the castle in an almost-original condition.

Touring the castle

A guided tour of the castle takes around 45 minutes, during which time visitors are walked through various ornamental rooms filled with original artifacts, paintings and furniture.

The armory (housing ancient firearms, weapons and cannons) and Treasury are also fascinating to explore, though no guided tours are offered. Labels and information are in german, but brochures explaining the exhibits are available in various languages.

Gastronomic options

It’s not everyday that you have a meal in the courtyard of a magnificent castle, so make sure you don’t miss this opportunity. There are two restaurants in the castle premises – Unterschänke (190 seats) and Oberschänke (120 seats). The menus at both restaurants take care of snack cravings and serious hunger pangs, with a variety of soups, sandwiches, rolls, traditional German dishes , salads, beverages and cakes.

Castle shop

The castle shop has an extensive range of souvenirs, from where you can choose one or more unique items to fondly remember your time in this beautiful castle for years. Other than traditional souvenirs like magnets, postcards key-chains and so on, you will also find books, porcelain and glass products, and even armor! Wooden swords and crossbows will no doubt capture the hearts of little knights and dames.

Want to see more? Discover our guide to the best castles around Germany .

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Burg Eltz in Germany – How to get there + Info and photos

By: Author Swedish Nomad

Posted on Last updated: March 20, 2021

Categories Germany

Home / Europe / Germany / Burg Eltz in Germany – How to get there + Info and photos

Burg Eltz (Eltz Castle in English) is a medieval castle in German y, located in the hills above the Moselle River between Koblenz and Trier. It’s one of the most beautiful castles in all of Europe, and it has been owned by the same family for 33 generations.

I have been there, and here’s a full guide on how to get there + more information about entrance fee, parking, guided tours, opening hours etc.

You can also read some more about the Eltz Family as well as see photos from the Eltz Castle.

How to get to the Eltz Castle

It’s pretty straightforward to get here if you have a car and use Google Maps. However, there are also other ways of transportations to get to the Eltz Castle.

Distance to Burg Eltz by car from popular cities nearby :

Trier – 65.2 miles / 105 km – 1 hour 17 minutes via A48 and A1.
Cologne: 86.3 miles / 139 km – 1 hour 31 minutes via A31
Frankfurt: 92 miles / 148 km – 1 hour 50 minutes
Heidelberg: 107 miles / 173 km – 2 hours via A61

By Bus : If you don’t have a car or don’t want to rent one, it’s possible to go to Burg Eltz by bus. The burgenbus 330 is available from May to November on weekends and public holidays.

Bicycle : If you stay at a nearby hotel, it’s easy to bike to the parking lot, and then walk along the footpath to Burg Eltz.

Walking : If you like to hike, I can recommend the trail from the Hatzenport Train station. The walk is 3.3 miles (5.3 km) and takes about 80 minutes or so depending on how fast you walk.

The footpath to the castle

When you arrive at the parking lot, you can either go down the hill where the shuttle bus goes. Or you can take the traditional footpath walk to the castle. Both ways are pretty similar in time, but I suggest to go down by the shuttle bus and walk back along the footpath.

Hikes to Burg Eltz

“Eltz Castle Panorama” (12.6 km, 5 hours)

If you’re a seasoned hiker and have plenty of time to spare, then this award-winning hike is something you should consider. This hike takes you through the Eltzbach valley, the Eltz forest, and around Eltz Castle as well as to the southern rises of the Maifeld.

“Up the Romantic Eltz Stream” (2.5 km, approx. 35 minutes)

If you want a quicker hike, I suggest the romantic Eltz stream at the Ringelsteiner Mühle in Moselkern. To get to Eltz castle you will make a light to medium ascent to the Eltzbach through the Eltz Forest.

“From Müdener Berg to Eltz Castle” (1.7 km, approx. 35 minutes)

This hike might seem short on paper, but it’s not a light one. In fact, the hike from Müdener Berg to Burg Eltz is very steep in some parts, but experienced hikers do get a rewarded with unique views of Pyrmont castle and Burg Eltz.

“From Karden to Eltz Castle” (7 km, 2 hours)

This hike is not for beginners as it’s quite challenging. However, it’s beautiful and if you do have the fitness and strength to make it, you will be rewarded by vineyards, forests, meadows and of course some scenic views of the Moselle, Maifeld and the Hunsrück.

“From Pyrmont Castle to Eltz Castle” (9.5 km, 2.5 hours)

Pyrmont Castle is one of the attractions near Burg Eltz, and if you go for this hike you will experience all of the beauty in the Eltz Valley.

More information about Burg Eltz

The Eltz Castle is a so-called Ganerbenburg , which means that it’s a castle occupied and managed by several families or family lines at the same time. As for Burg Eltz, it wasn’t built as a whole unit at first.

Instead, it was built over centuries where different parts were added over time. The oldest part of Burg Eltz is the “Platteltz” which is a Romanesque keep.

Facts about the Eltz castle

Something that’s very interesting about the Eltz Castle is the fact that it’s owned by a branch from the same family who have lived here since the 12th century, for 33 generations.

It has never been destroyed, which makes it even more special as the original parts are still there.

The highest tower is 320 meters (1050 ft) and from 1965 to 1992, an engraving of Eltz Castle was used on the German 500 Deutsche Mark note.

The Eltz family

The Eltz family is a well-known noble family in Germany with a long history. The first source mentioning an Eltz was back in the 7th century while speaking of a Frankish citizen named Eberhard zu Eltz.

However, the first recorded instance comes from the year 1157 when Rudolph zu Eltz was mentioned as a witness to the donation of a property deed by Emperor Fredrick Barbarossa. The family has 3 branches that are owning separate parts of the castle.

At the picture below you can see Jakob von Eltz-Rübenach, who lived between 1510-1581. He was the Prince Elector and Archbishop of Trier

Eltz Castle inside

Photography is not allowed inside Burg Eltz, so these 2 photos are stock photos, just to give you an idea of what it looks like on the inside of the castle. Also, it gives a nice surprise since you don’t really know what to expect.

Photo: Shutterstock

Things to know before you visit Burg Eltz

No photos are allowed inside the castle
No drones are allowed – hefty fines wait for the ones who break the rules
No pets are allowed inside the castle

Burg Eltz Opening Hours

The Eltz Castle is open daily from 09:30 to 17.30 until 1 November 2018.

If you come here before or after Eltz Castle opening hours, you can still see the castle from the outside, but you can’t walk inside for a guided tour. I suggest to come here around 8:30 or so, otherwise you won’t be able to make photos without the crowds.

There’s a parking lot above the castle where the footpath to the Eltz Castle begins. The parking fee for cars is 2 euro, and for cars with trailers or campervans, the parking fee at Burg Eltz is 4 euro. Busses are free of charge.

Entrance Fee

There’s no entrance fee to see the castle from the outside, except the parking fee. The Burg Eltz Entrance fee is for those who wish to go inside the castle on a guided tour (the only way to get inside).

A guided tour around the castle is included when you buy the Burg Eltz tickets. The Treasury can be visited without a guide by showing your valid ticket between 09:30 and 18:00.

Guided tours at Burg Eltz

A guided tour by one of the castle’s expert guides begins every 10-15 minutes and takes 35 – 40 minutes.

Foreign visitors who cannot attend a tour in their own language receive a free translation in Chinese, English, French, Italian, Japanese, Dutch, Portuguese, Russian or Spanish.

Burg Eltz Contact info

Telephone: +49 2672 95050-0
E-mail: [email protected]

Burg Eltz address

Gräflich Eltz’sche
Kastellanei Burg Eltz
Burg Eltz 1
56294 Wierschem, Germany

Recommended hotels near Burg Eltz

Landhaus Neuhof
Landhotel Ringelsteiner Mühle

Other attractions and castles near Burg Eltz

Geierlay Suspension Bridge
Mosel Valley
Pyrmont Castle | Distance: 5.5 miles / 8.9 km | Address: Burg Pyrmont 2, 56754 Roes
Cochem Castle | Distance: 17 miles / 27 km | Address: Schlossstraße 36, 56812 Cochem
Burg Thurant | Distance: 10 miles /16 km | Address: 56332 Alken
Burg Metternich | Distance: 18 miles / 28.9 | Address: Burg Metternich, 56814 Beilstein (Rheinland-Pfalz)
Satzvey Castle | Distance: 65 miles / 104,6 km | Address: Burg Satzvey, An der Burg 3, 53894 Mechernich
Mespelbrunn Castle | Distance: 129 miles / 207 km | Address: Schloßallee, 63875 Mespelbrunn

Burg Eltz in Winter

As you can see in the photo below, Burg Eltz is beautiful during winter as well. Summer might be the most popular time to visit, but a snowcapped medieval castle makes a great fairy tale!

Get In Touch

02672-950 500

https://www.burg-eltz.de

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Exploring Castles

Burg Eltz (Eltz Castle): A German Fairytale Hidden in a Wooded Dell

Burg Eltz (Eltz Castle) sure looks something like a fairytale. This atmospheric German castle is located in a rural, wooded dell; not too far from the winding river Rhine.

I visited Burg Eltz in 2012; and it was a really memorable experience.

Enchantingly, the best way to reach the castle is by walking for 45 minutes through a dark green pine-forest. Suddenly, seemingly out of nowhere, you turn a corner and Eltz Castle appears in front of you, like some odd mirage or fantastical fairytale. It’s a very special experience.

In common with many other German castles, Burg Eltz has been designed more for looks than for defence – it’s really a grand rural home, rather than an old Medieval fortress. However, its insides offer an interesting glimpse into the domestic lives of early Modern German nobility; and the outside of the castle is jaw-droppingly impressive.

A Medieval Spot, Chosen for Defence

It’s somewhat difficult to gauge from my photos, but Eltz Castle is situated within a small, wooded valley; and stands in the middle of the basin, perched upon a rocky crag. The river Eltz almost entirely loops around the crag; making it a brilliantly defensive spot.

It’s easy to see that this was a perfect spot upon which to construct a castle. But Eltz Castle was well-placed for economic reasons, as well as geographic. The confluence of the Rhine and Mosel rivers formed an important trade-route back in Medieval times.

Castles were used to protect trade routes; but, in addition, they could be used by nobles as a base to collect taxes and tithes from passing merchants. Because of this, the first foundations of the Burg were laid in about 1157. These first structures became the Platteltz – a large, Medieval castle-keep, which nowadays is merged into the buildings at the back of the castle.

Burg Eltz: Three Castles in One

From small foundations, mighty castles are built – and it might surprise you to discover that Eltz Castle wasn’t designed or built as one complete structure. Indeed, Burg Eltz is actually three castles in one.

How come? Constructing a Medieval castle was a significant financial commitment, and so three different branches of the Eltz family built entirely separate structures on the site of today’s castle.

There were three different sides of the clan – the Kempenich (‘The House of the Golden Lion’), the Rubenach (‘The House of the Silver Lion’) and the ‘The House of the Buffalo Horns’, who each built their own fortified living-quarters. These separate buildings co-existed peacefully on the rocky crag; with their residents sharing a central well and courtyard.

Each family branch built different buildings during different architectural periods. For example, the Rubenach buildings (some of which surround the courtyard today) were late-Gothic in style – placing emphasis on light and height. By contrast, the 1600s Kempenich buildings display early-modern complexity, with octagonal foundations and grand timber work towers.

In 1815, the castle was unified in the hands of the House of the Golden Lion (that is, the Kempenich descendants). This line had out-lived the other families, and was also prosperous enough to buy out the property of the House of the Silver Lion.

Presently, Eltz Castle is privately owned; and has been held by the Eltz family for more than 800 years. The owner-in-chief is Dr Karl Graf; who’s in the 33rd generation of the Eltz clan.

The modern-day owners are keen to emphasise that the castle’s recent restoration has been reasonably authentic. Back in the late 1800s, the Romantic style of restoration rather over-exaggerated the fairytale aspects of many other castles, rather mutilating their true heritage. In contrast, Burg Eltz was renovated and restored in a more sympathetic manner.

My impression is that the restoration of the castle smoothed some the disparate architectural styles, creating a castle that looked more ordered and unified – something built as a whole, rather than as an amalgamation of three parts.

The Innards of the Castle: The Lives of German Nobility Past

Nowadays, the only way to see the innards of Burg Eltz is via a 45min guided tour – happily, there are a couple of English tours every day. The one downside of the touring mechanism is that photography of the rooms and chambers is strictly forbidden (you’ll have probably spotted this already, as I’ve only included exterior photos on this page).

The insides of the Eltz Castle are an impressive (and slightly eclectic) combination of authentic Medieval furniture and more modern additions. There’re almost 80 different rooms within the castle, half of which have their own fireplaces. As an additional curiosity, in Early Modern times, the internal toilets were fitted with a grey-water flushing system, using gutters and drains from the roof above.

The tour winds through a couple of banqueting chambers – check out the Flemish tapestries on the walls of the ground floor chamber. The artists attempted to capture an image of exotic animals but, in a world before photographs and international travel, these beasts are bizarre and threatening monsters.

There are lots of little curiosities and interesting legends scattered throughout Burg Eltz. A chapel in one of the bedrooms juts out beyond the wall of the room – the idea being that no-one should be higher than God, so some architectural manoeuvring was required to get around the fact that there’s another bedroom on the floor above.

The Eltz Castle tour finishes in a dark and cool kitchen, where there’s evidence of a Medieval refrigerator – a store-cupboard cut into the cool, stone rock-face which could store milk and cheese for longer. Additionally, there’s a nice Medieval trick to keep food safe from prying rats and mice – hang it in baskets from the ceiling!

Visiting Eltz Castle: Getting There and Away

Burg Eltz isn’t exactly the most accessible castle in Germany; but it’s certainly possible to reach it by public transport or by car. If you’re driving, there are extensive directions on their official website.

If you’re making your own way there, the best place to stay is the town of Koblenz, a reasonably neat little place on the banks of the Rhine. There’s a variety of good places to stay in Koblenz, although everything is more modern and chainy than you might expect from a historic little German town.

My personal recommendation is the new and attractive G Hotel adjacent to the station – I stayed there and found it excellent value for money . I thought that the breakfast was mean, though. (The link above is an affiliate link to TripAdvisor).

Koblenz is about an hour or so by train from Cologne (Koln). From Koblenz, you’ll need to take a local train to the village of Moselkern (trains are about every hour; and take around 30min).

From Moselkern, the walking route to the castle is very well signposted, and you’d have to be a bit daft to get lost. There’s an initial 30min walk from the train-station to the hotel on the outskirts of the village, where the official trail to the castle begins. From there, it’s an easy 45min walk through woodland paths to the castle.

Note that neither Moselkern nor Burg Eltz have anything in the way of ATMs: don’t get caught out, and bring a chunk of cash.

I visited other German castles during my trip in 2012. I think you might like to read more about Heidelberg Castle , which is one of the most romantic ruins in the whole of Germany. Alternatively, why not discover touristy – but super-famous – Neuschwanstein Castle?

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Everything you need to know to visit Eltz Castle, Germany

Burg eltz – fairytale castle in germany.

Burg Eltz (or Eltz Castle in English) is a straight out of the fairytale, enchanting medieval castle enthroned in the middle of a dense forest on Moselle valley, between Koblenz and Cochem in Germany.

This beautiful 80-room castle is over 850 years old ; built in the 12 th century by the three families Eltz-Kempenich, Eltz-Rübenach and Eltz-Rodendorf. It is still owned and inhabited by a branch of the same family. The current owner of the castle is Dr. Karl Graf von und zu Eltz-Kempenich, alias Faust von Stromberg, lives in Frankfurt am Main.

If you’re planning a trip, take a look at the ultimate guide to visit the castle.

How to get to the Eltz Castle?

Burg Eltz is located in Wierschem, a municipality belonging to the district of Mayen-Koblenz in the West German state of Rhineland-Palatinate.

Getting there by train, bus, and boat from Koblenz or by car as a day trip from Frankfurt, Mainz, or Cologne is possible. However, it is a bit tricky to reach the castle by means of public transport .

Burg Eltz, 56294 Wierschem

By Boat on Mosel River

During the River cruise season in summer which is generally late April to mid-October, you can take a boat from Cochem or Koblenz.

You can take the Köln–Düsseldorfer (KD) riverboat from Koblenz to Mosselkern or take the Kolb cruise from Cochem to Treis-Karden .

By Train to Moselkern / Treis-Karden

On weekdays , you can take the train to Moselkern . There are hourly Regional Bahn (RB) train from Koblenz or Cochem/Trier . The train ride takes 30 minutes from Koblenz, 20 minutes from Cochem, and 90 minutes from Trier.

On weekends and publics holidays , you can take the train to Hatzenport or Treis-Karden on the Moselle and from there take the Burgenbus (Castle Bus) to Eltz Castle Car Park .

Check the train timetables online with German Railway, to Burg Eltz with the Burgenbus (on weekends and public holidays only) or to Moselkern by train and then walk or take taxi to Eltz Castle.

By BurgenBus to Eltz Castle

On weekends and public holidays from May to October, you can take the Burgenbus 330 (Castles Bus) from Hatzenport or Treis-Karden directly to the parking lot at Burg Eltz. The service operates four times per day making it an attractive option to hiking both ways.

The bus also stops at Moselkern Moselanlagen to connect with Mosel and Rhine River boats .

Bicycles can be transported on the bus – online reservations are advisable at RegioRadler .

By Car to Eltz Castle

Getting there by car is the most convenient way to visit the castle as it is located in the middle of a valley surrounded by forest. By car you drive to the village of Wierschem and follow signpost to the castle.

There are two parking lots nearby Eltz Castle:

Upper car park close to Antoniuskapelle (St. Anthony’s Chapel), located at the end of the Burg Eltz Strasse . You can walk downhill along the footpath or take the shuttle bus to the castle.
Lower car park, ParkPlatz – Burg Eltz Wander .

Parking costs 2 euros for car & motorbike and 4 euros for car with trailer & caravan . The machine only accepts cash.

Path from Parking Lot to Castle

Either you arrive by Car, Taxi from Moselkern or by BurgenBus from Treis-Karden to the car park, you have to walk to the castle along the footpath or take the shuttle bus.

Stroller friendly path

The shuttle bus route (purple) , 800-metre-long private road descends steep from the car park and you can get a great view of the castle from a viewpoint. It takes about 10 minutes to walk down the path.

Downhill footpath

This gently descending footpath (orange) about 1.3 km, 15 minutes begins at the car park and takes you through untouched nature. The views over the valley and the stunning view of the Eltz Castle.

Not advisable to take small children on this footpath as there are no handrails or guardrails, and it’s a steep drop several hundred feet down, right at the edge of the path.

Shuttle Bus

You can take a small shuttle bus at the cost of € 2 per person from the car park. The shuttle bus stop is at the barrier next to the Antonius Chapel .

The shuttle bus operates only during the opening time of the castle.

Guided Eltz Castle Tour

You can see the i nterior of the castle by going for a guided tour . You can purchase the ticket in the castle gift shop.

As Burg Eltz is an authentic medieval castle, the guided tour is not recommended for those with mobility difficulties due to narrow winding staircases to climb inside the castle.

The ticket costs about € 11 for an adult and € 30 for a family (2 adult and 2 children). Check out the cost of the tour at the official Burg Eltz webpage .

The tour begins in the castle courtyard and continues into the armory, the Knights Hall and Treasure Chamber. You will see everything collected by the Eltz family for nearly 900 years such as suits or armors, weapons, panel paintings, gold and silversmiths’ works, coins, medals, sacred objects, jewelry and other exquisite medieval items.

Things to know before you go

Check out the necessary things to know such as opening hours, rules & prohibitions, gastronomy options, WC facilities and estimated time needed to spend in the castle.

Opening Hours of Eltz Castle

The Eltz Castle is open daily from 09:30 to 17.30 until 1 st November. It is closed in the winter season from 2 nd November until 27 th March.

If you come here before or after Eltz Castle opening hours , you can still see the castle from the outside , but you can’t walk inside for a guided tour.

To avoid the queues and to take pictures alone in the high season, plan to arrive before 9:00 AM or after 3:30 PM.

Rules and Prohibitions

Drones are not allowed to capture the Eltz Castle. Hefty fines if the rules are broken.

Taking pictures of the inside of the castle is not allowed . However, you can make pictures of the outer castle courtyard, Treasury and outside the castle.

You cannot take your pets and strollers inside the castle.

Gastronomy and WC

Two cozy self-service restaurants and toilet facilities are available in the castle courtyard. You can also bring a picnic and go down to the lake by the castle.

How long do you need?

It would take around half a day including the guided castle tour .

The tour takes approximately 35-40 minutes and starts every 5-10 minutes. Your ticket also includes admission to the Treasury , which usually takes around 20 minutes though this depends on your own pace. Plus you have to include the time to walk from the parking lot to the castle , about 15-20 minutes or you can take the shuttle bus which is quicker.

Hiking trails to Eltz Castle

If you like hiking, you can check out the various hiking trails to the castle with stunning views and challenging paths. Find a quite good overview of the other hikes at the Burg Eltz website .

Moselkern to Eltz Castle

The easy 5-km, 90 minutes hike to the Castle Eltz via the Elzbach (Elz Stream) valley from Moselkern. Walk along Eltzal Street , past the hotel and follow the signpost ‘Burg Eltz’ .

Enjoy a pleasant walk through the forest!

Treis-Karden to Eltz Castle

You can hike from Treis-Karden up a very steep trail up to a beautiful lookout point over the Moselle. The trail from Treis-Karden to Burg Eltz is marked with ‘M’ (for Moselhöhenweg – a hillside long distance trail along the Moselle). Follow the signposts to ‘Burg Eltz’ .

Trial from Müdenberg to Burg Eltz via Österhof is steep and difficult; only recommended for experienced hikers.

Burg Eltz Panaroma Hiking Trail

The panorama premium hiking around Eltz Castle has been voted as the Germany’s most beautiful hiking trail . It is about 12.4 km trial or about 4 hours , famous for its great views from the Mosel plateau and its easy access to the forests and meadows along the Elzbach river.

Other attractions and castles near Burg Eltz

Take a look at the map with the attractions and castles near Eltz Castle which you will find interesting.

The Deutsches Eck (“German Corner”) : German Corner where the Rhine and the Moselle river meets.

Geierlay Suspension Bridge: One of the most beautiful longest hanging rope bridges in Germany.

Bundesbank-Bunker Cochem: Former bunker of Germany’s Central Bank (Deutsche Bundesbank) with the secret vault.

Sesselbahn in Boppard: For an extraordinary panorama view over the Boppard Rhine slope and and the Upper Middle Rhine Valley.

Thurant Castle: One of the oldest castles in the Moselle.

Pyrmont Castle: Stands above a waterfall on the Elzbach in the southern Eifel mountains.

Cochem Castle: Sits on the bank of the Moselle, towering over rolling vine-covered hills.

Stolzenfels Castle: The beautiful castle is perched on lush green hills a few miles from Koblenz.

Metternich Castle: Ancient hilltop Castle ruins with panoramic views over the vineyards of the Moselle Valley.

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Day Trip to Burg Eltz – Fairytale Castle in Germany

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This article details travel tips to make a day trip to Burg Eltz.

One of the most beautiful, mystical, magical and most definitely a fairytale castle in Germany , there’s nothing not to love about the Burg Eltz castle. Located in western germany, surrounded by greenery and hidden in the forest, this is one of the unmissable places to visit in Germany.

As gorgeous as the Eltz castle is, its history is just as long and interesting and its location is easy to get to. This article provides you with all the travel information needed to plan a day trip to the Burg Eltz castle in Germany.

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History of the Burg Eltz Castle in Germany

The castle Burg Eltz belongs, even today, to the Eltz family who have been the owners of this castle since the 12th century. One of the most interesting facts about Burg Eltz is that throughout approximately 900 years since its origin, the castle has never been destroyed and was never captured by an enemy. It has remained in the possession of the Eltz family through the centuries.

Three branches of the Eltz family have joint possession of the castle, with each branch having sections of the castle to themselves. The family has done a marvelous job, alongside the German government, to restore and maintain the castle to remain the way it has over all these years.

To learn more about the history and architecture of the castle, you can take a tour of the interiors and also pay a visit to their treasury, which contains over 500 exhibits of gold, silver, porcelain, weaponry and jewelry from over 9 centuries!

Burg Eltz Castle Location

Burg Eltz is situated in the Rhineland-Palatinate state in western Germany , to the west of Frankfurt and south of Cologne. The castle is conveniently located in the Mosel valley and wine region , where it was constructed in order to protect the trade route along the Mosel river. The castle can be reached easily by car and even by public transportation from Cologne, Essen, Dortmund, Frankfurt and many other German cities and towns. Not just that, its proximity to both Belgium and Luxembourg make it easy to take a day trip to Burg Eltz from these countries.

Day Trip to Burg Eltz

Given the perfect location of the Burg Eltz in the Mosel valley close to many large German cities, it is very easy to take a day trip to Burg Eltz. Cologne to Burg Eltz takes only over 1.5 hours by car whereas Frankfurt to Burg Eltz takes a little less than 2 hours. It’s location close to the border of Belgium, Luxembourg and France makes it easy to drive from these countries to take a day trip to Burg Eltz castle. All that being said, I highly recommend staying at the nearby charming town of Cochem , seeing all the things that Cochem has to offer and then heading to Burg Eltz, which is only a 30 minute drive from Cochem . This is how we visited the castle and loved every minute of it!

Find places to stay near Burg Eltz on Booking.com

How to Reach the Eltz Castle in Germany

Day trip to Burg Eltz castle, Germany - Fairytale castle in Germany

The drive to Burg Eltz is as scenic as it is convenient. It also saves you some time and makes it super simple to take a day trip to Burg Eltz from Cologne, Frankfurt, Essen, Düsseldorf or many other nearby places. We actually visited this castle on a fairytale road trip across Germany during which we combined a visit to Burg Eltz with many other charming German towns and castles like the nearby town of Cochem.

By Public Transportation (Train+Hike)

To reach the Eltz castle using public transportation, you’ll need to first take a train to the closest railway station to Burg Eltz and then hike to the castle. Take a look at the best way to reach the castle below:

First, take a train and arrive at the Moselkern station aka Moselkern Bahnhof.
From here, it is a 4.5 km i.e. over one hour’s hike to the castle
Once you’re near the Burg Eltz parking lot, you can either take the shuttle bus to the castle for €2 or hike down to the castle within 15 minutes.
You’ll need to do the exact same journey in reverse while heading back.

As evident, it’s not too hard to reach the castle by public transportation if you’re willing to hike a bit.

Burg Eltz Parking Lot

The Burg Eltz parking lot is close to the castle , about 800 m away. Parking here costs €4 that can only be paid by cash , and no card of any kind whatsoever. The parking lot can get busy if you’re visiting Burg Eltz on a weekend, especially in the popular summer months. It’s best to arrive at the castle around the time that it opens, in order to guarantee a parking spot and low waiting time to get into the castle.

Shuttle Bus to the Castle

The short but incredibly scenic route from the Burg Eltz parking lot to the castle is a mere 15 minutes. However, this short road is quite steep and the hike back to the top is not easy by any means. There is a longer route to the castle which also offers scenic vistas but that takes over 40 minutes to get to the castle. Visitors who are unable to walk to the castle can take the shuttle bus at a low cost.

Because the castle is located in the forest at a steep decline, older visitors or those with impairments may find it hard to go from the parking lot to the castle and vice versa, since the shortest road to the castle is quite steep. Therefore there is a shuttle bus that plies to the castle from the parking lot, and back, every few minutes. A ride in the bus costs €2 for each trip and the journey lasts only a couple of minutes.

Best Time to Visit Burg Eltz, Germany

Burg Eltz is closed during winter and rightly so because seeing the castle with foliage around it feels a lot more magical. Quite naturally, summer is the best time to visit the Eltz castle since you can see the castle properly in the good weather, hike around the castle and fully enjoy your visit to Burg Eltz. That being said, the castle can get a little crowded in summer. Which means difficulty in getting a parking spot and longer queues to enter the castle. This is why I suggest paying a visit to the castle in the shoulder months of September and October.

I visited Burg Eltz towards the end of September 2021 and the weather was absolutely perfect – I just had one jean jacket on but I was comfortable to take it off for pictures. Furthermore, there was plenty of fall foliage around and we could hike around the castle without any issues whatsoever.

Burg Eltz Tickets – Cost and Opening Times

The Eltz castle is open in the months from April to November from 9.30 am to 5 pm . From December to March, the inside of the castle remains closed to the public but one can still see the castle exteriors during this time.

The cost of entry tickets to the castle Burg Eltz are listed below. These tickets guarantee a visit to the exteriors, the treasury and armory in the castle. However, to see the inside of the castle, you need to take a guided tour at an additional cost. The tours can be taken in multiple languages and there is unfortunately no other way to see the inside of the Eltz castle.

Burg Eltz Castle Tour

Just like any other castle in Germany, you need to take a guided tour in order to see the interiors of the Burg Eltz castle. These tours last around 35-40 minutes each and are conducted in German, English and French . For tourists who do not speak these languages, they also have fliers in Dutch, Portuguese, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, Japanese and Russian, in addition to the aforementioned languages.

The first tour begins when the castle opens at 9.30 am and the last one is held at 5.30 pm. The tours are conducted at regular intervals and are conducted by guides. Furthermore, you can also pay a visit to the castle’s treasury with the same ticket but independently, without the guide or tour.

Also Read: How to Spend a Weekend in Hamburg City

Panorama Hike around the Burg Eltz

There are a number of short and long hiking trails near Burg Eltz. The 12.6 km long panorama trail is the most popular and interesting one, especially during summer when the leaves provide shade and coolness. However, it’s worth checking out some of the other hikes near the Eltz castle if you’re only here for a short day trip. You don’t necessarily need hiking shoes for this hike since it is an easy one with a well-defined trail.

Where to Stay near the Burg Eltz Castle

In case you are travelling from somewhere far and are unable to take a day trip to the Eltz castle, then you can consider staying at the many delightful hotels near Burg Eltz. Since the area surrounding the castle has hills, a river, valleys and sublime sceneries, it’s worth booking a stay near Burg Eltz.

Hotel Ostermann

Hotel Ostermann is set along the Mosel river, only 2.5 km from the Eltz castle . Not only does the hotel have an indoor swimming pool , sun terrace , views of the Mosel Valley, breakfast buffet and lots of activities to offer but it is also the closest hotel to Burg Eltz .

Check availability and prices at Hotel Ostermann on Booking.com

Landhotel Ringelsteiner Mühle

Hotel near the Burg Eltz Castle - Landhotel Ringelsteiner Muhle

Another well-rated hotel located 2 km from Burg Eltz , the hotel is set in the town Moselkern in the countryside . They offer a rustic bar , a sun terrace , breakfast buffet , homemade cakes and local specialities . The best part about the location of this hotel is that it is situated at the start of the small hike to the Burg Eltz, making it the perfect hotel to book near the Eltz castle.

Check availability and prices at Landhotel Ringelsteiner Mühle on Booking.com

Where to Eat near Burg Eltz

There are two restaurants inside the castle that offer all sorts of drinks like soda, coffee and beer. They also provide food items such as burgers, potato fries, currywurst and desserts. Keep in mind that the restaurants accept only cash so carry sufficient money to cover the entirety of your day trip to Burg Eltz.

Looking for Travel Guides to Germany?

Fairytale castles, charming towns, Oktoberfest and Christmans markets are only a small percentage of awesomeness that Germany has to offer. Take a look at my travel guides to this underrated country in western Europe below to plan your trip to Germany. All links open in a new tab.

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Germany’s Most Gorgeous Castle, Eltz Castle (Burg Eltz)

By: Author Hannah Lukaszewicz

Posted on Last updated: 1 February, 2024

Germany’s Most Gorgeous Castle, Eltz Castle (Burg Eltz)

Tucked deep into the forest is one of the most magical castles in Germany. Eltz Castle is like no other castle in Germany, as you won’t see it perched high up on the hill miles before arriving.

As soon we saw a picture of Burg Eltz, we added it to our German castle list to visit. It may not be on the famous Romantic Road , which visits some of the best castles in Germany , but it’s definitely worth the detour.

We’ve put together everything you need to know about visiting Eltz.

History Of Burg Eltz

Eltz is one of only three castles on the left bank of the Rhine River that hasn’t been destroyed over the centuries. Construction started in 1157 and lasted 500 years, with ongoing maintenance to keep the castle up. There are over 100 rooms in the castle for family members, staff, and guests.

Related Article: Driving Germany’s Romantic Road

*When looking for the best price and the biggest selection of hotels in Europe check prices on Booking.com , we’ve found they are the best option and have a great cancelation policy.

How to get to Burg Eltz Castle

The easiest way is by car, and if you are visiting on the weekend, public transportation is an option April-November. If you’re traveling around Germany by train on a rail pass, you can get off at Treis-Karden at the Hatzenport train station and take a taxi or the castle bus on the weekends.

By Car: If you have data on your cell phone, all you need to do is put in Burg Eltz into Google Maps, and it’ll bring you right to the castle in Germany. Otherwise, enter the address below into the maps before leaving your hotel with Wi-Fi.

Google Maps will bring you right to this epic German castle even if you’re offline as long as you start navigation before leaving Wi-Fi.

Once you get close to the castle you’ll start to brown signs for Burg Eltz, you can follow those signs as well. When we visited, our GPS went a different way than the signs, so don’t be alarmed if your GPS tells you to go a different way than the Castle Road signs.

Eltz Castle Address: 56294 Wierschem, Germany

Cologne 64 miles, about 1 hour 20 minutes
Frankfurt 92 miles, about 1 hour 40 minutes
Heidelberg 110 miles, about 2 hours

Renting a car in Germany is the best way to see the country and visit some of the best castles in Germany. We have rented a car 5 times in Germany and can’t imagine not having that freedom. Often, cars are less than $25 a day. We book on Discovercars.com. They have the best prices and free cancellation. Click here to check rates .

By Bus: From May to November, on Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays, you can catch the Burgenbus 330, also known as the Castle bus. The Burgen bus runs four times a day from Treis-Karden To Eltz Castle, stopping in Pyrmont Castle and Hatzenport.

Walking: If you’re up to a hike, it’s only 3.3 miles (5.3 km) from the Hatzenport train station and should take around 80 minutes. The trail is well-marked with signs.

Things To Know Before Visiting Burg Eltz

Come Early. The castle officially opens at 9:30 am, but we suggest getting there earlier to get the iconic Eltz Castle bridge photos without a bunch of people in the photo. We noticed the tourist buses started arriving at 10:30 am.

There are two ways to walk to Eltz Castle. You can either walk the paved road (800 meters, about a 10-minute walk), which the shuttle bus takes, or a footpath by the lower car park (0.75 miles, about a 15-minute walk) through the forest.

We suggest taking the paved road to Burg Eltz, and along the way, there is a viewpoint looking down at the castle. On the way back to the parking lot, take the footpath through the forest.

Burg Eltz Viewpoint from walk from parking lot - Leaves in front of the distant castle

No photos allowed inside the castle – You can take as many photos outside, but as soon as you enter the castle, no photos are allowed, and there isn’t any photo pass you can purchase either.

No drones are allowed at Eltz Castle – we weren’t surprised by this. We saw multiple signs saying no drone in German and English. The fines for flying a drone illegally in German are no joke, it’s not worth the risk.

For the best photo of Eltz Castle from above head viewpoint just off the paved road to the castle near the white shelter and old ruins on top of the hill.

Pets are not allowed indoors at Eltz Castle, for some reason at every castle in Germany we noticed a bunch of dogs. Dogs are allowed at Eltz, but they are NOT allowed inside during the castle tour.

Wooden Tables in front of the Eltz Castle Restaurant inside the castle

There are two restaurants onsite, so skip the drive-thru and instead have a meal in a castle. The restaurants are reasonably priced and serve coffee, sandwiches, Schnitzel, salads, soups, brats, and much more.

Eltz Castle Hours

Burg Eltz is open daily from April through November from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm for castle tours. If you happen to visit the castle outside of these months, you can still visit Eltz castle. You just won’t be able to go inside the castle for a tour.

Even if you can’t go inside the castle, it is still worth the visit. Most castles in Germany are perched high up on a hill, but Eltz is hidden deep in the woods, surrounded by nature.

Burg Eltz Entrance Fee

Technically, there isn’t a fee to visit Burg Eltz. However, there is a €2 parking fee and €10 for an adult for the guided castle tour. If you are short on time you can catch the shuttle bus from the parking lot next to the Antonius Chapel, it is €2 per person each way. The shuttle bus will drop you off right at the iconic bridge entering Eltz Castle.

Guided Tour Of Eltz Castle

The only way to go inside the castle is to go on a guided tour. Tours typically take 45 minutes and run every 10-15 minutes. It’s best to head to the ticket counter first and find out when the next tour is in your desired language.

English tours are available, but you may have to wait for a little so it’s best to find out when the next tour is and then take photos while you wait.

Berg Eltz FAQ

Q : When was Burg Eltz built? A : Construction on Eltz Castle started in 1157 AD

Q : Who owns Eltz castle? A : Berg Eltz is still owned by descendants of the Eltz Family, who date back to this region since the 7th century.

Q : How many rooms are in Eltz Castle? A : The castle has over 100 rooms in the Berg Eltz interior.

Q : What is the German word for Castle? A : The German word for castle is Berg or Schloss.

Suggested Hotels Near Burg Eltz

We suggest staying at a hotel nearby so you can get to Eltz right away in the morning to beat the crowds. There are several cute hotels in the area to call home for the night.

Landhotel Ringelsteiner Muehle | Check Rates On Booking | Read The Latest TripAdvisor Reviews
Schloss-Hotel Petry | Check Rates On Expedia | Read The Latest TripAdvisor Reviews

Also, check Vrbo , as there are some really cute German houses and even castles for rent. You can rent an entire house with 6 beds and a sauna for less than a standard hotel room.

Other Castles Near Eltz Castle

There are over 20,000 castles in Germany and several castles nearby Eltz that are worth the visit. Here are a few to Castles to consider visiting before or after Burg Eltz.

Cochem Castle | 17 miles away | Address: Schlossstraße 36, 56812 Cochem
Burg Thurant | 10 miles away | Address: 56332 Alken, Germany
Burg Metternich | 18 miles away | Address: Burg Metternich, 56814 Beilstein (Rheinland-Pfalz), Germany
Satzvey Castle | 105 km – 65 miles | Address: Burg Satzvey, An der Burg 3, 53894 Mechernich, Germany
Mespelbrunn Castle | 207 km – 129 miles away | Address: Schloßallee, 63875 Mespelbrunn, Germany

Another one of our favorite castles is Liechtenstein Castle, which is just under 4 hours away. If you have time, put it on your Germany road trip.

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Castle Eltz
Small Group Tours

Description

Tour a - castle eltz.

Visit with us on a day trip this perfectly preserved and beautifully situated castle. You will experience the 850 years old, exciting history of this facility and its inhabitants.

The guidance of the rooms and halls shows a cross section through many centuries of cultural history.

The treasury in the cellar vaults holds an extremely valuable art collection with 500 exhibits - to date, the castle has over one million visitors. Owing to clever diplomacy, Castle Eltz has survived unharmed for centuries, making it one of the few European Castles to have escaped destruction

On the way back through the charming Rhine Valley, we have arranged dinner for you in a very charming and interesting restaurant right on the shore.

After the meal we go back to Frankfurt.

included in the price:

German / English tour guide
Entrance to the castle
Dinner in restaurant
Adult: € 258,00 pp
Children: € 155,00 pp (until 12 years)

additional bookable:

Pick up and drop off from / to the hotel in Frankfurt
EUR 10,00 pp / way

buy ticket directly here: Tickets

Call us or use our booking form.

Changes to the tour are reserved

departure times

01.04 - 01.11.2023

Monday - Sunday: 10: 00 h - 18: 00h (approx.)

Community Support
Ways & Means

Burg Eltz English Tour

When 20 Oct 2023
9:00 AM - 1:30 PM
Location Burg Eltz, Germany
Spaces left 18

Registration

Burg Eltz English Tour – $20.00 Note: price is in euros, this event will happen on the economy. Come experience this historical castle that has been held by the same family for over 900 years. The entrance fee also includes visiting the Treasure Vault in the cellar of Rübenach House on one’s own. The treasury contains an exceptional collection of art works of over five hundred items, gold and silver items, jewels, glasses, porcelain, clothes, weapons, knight’s armours and sacral objects. We recommend scheduling another about 20 minutes for visiting the treasure vault.
Online ticket – $23.00 If you want to pay online, we have to charge a conversion fee. This total is in US Dollars

Come visit this family owned castle that has been held for over 900 years! We will carpool to this amazing castle that is approx one and a half hours away. Plan on leaving the PX parking lot promptly at 8:45 so we can reach our tour on time. (If you can drive, please let me know - we can cover the cost of parking for the drivers). Tour begins at 11am, last about 40 min. There is a cafe located on the castle grounds if anyone wants to stop for a snack/meal/something or if you need to get back, we'll make sure to plan for a carpool that all needs to be back early.

The entrance fee also includes visiting the Treasure Vault in the cellar of Rübenach House on one’s own. The treasury contains an exceptional collection of art works of over five hundred items, gold and silver items, jewels, glasses, porcelain, clothes, weapons, knight’s armours and sacral objects. We recommend scheduling another about 20 minutes for visiting the treasure vault. Should there be a tight time frame then your tour leaders should advice their guests to shorten their visit in the Treasury.

Wear good walking shoes, we have some uphills and stairs to tackle. Looking forward to this amazing castle.

Explore The Famous Burg Eltz

I remember when we first moved to Germany, I found myself mesmerized by castles. I actually saw a Facebook post where someone mentioned that they had lived in Europe for over two years and they were tired of castles. What? I was seriously offended. How can you ever see too many castles??

Most Impressive

Fast forward three years and I get it. However, a visit from my daughter prompted a day trip to a medieval castle nestled in the hills above the Mosel River between Koblenz and Trier. Burg Eltz is owned by a branch of the same family (the Eltz family) that lived there in the 12th century – 33 generations ago.

Photo 1 Cover photo Cheryl The Dramatic Burg Eltz August 16

Burg Eltz is the castle that has impressed me the most and is now my favorite castle in Germany. Even in a region where it is almost impossible not to stumble over some castle ruins, this castle really stands out. Not many things are more associated with Europe than castles; after visiting Burg Eltz, I have to say it’s one of the best I have ever seen. Why? Well, let me tell you why.

That WOW Factor

Photo 2 Cover photo Cheryl The Dramatic Burg Eltz August 16

Burg Eltz sits in a lush green valley, hidden away from main road traffic. It is the first castle that has ever actually taken my breath away as we rounded a corner in the shuttle and got a look at the view. Unlike the vast majority of castles along the Mosel and Rhine Rivers, this was one of the few that has never been destroyed or badly damaged.

Burg Eltz’s setting is simply stunning, as it sits perched on a rock and surrounded by thick, wooded hills and the babbling Elzbach Creek on three sides. This setting was chosen strategically, since the location was perfect for exacting tolls on passing traders, which provided much of the early wealth for Burg Eltz’s residents.

Photo 3 Cover photo Cheryl The Dramatic Burg Eltz August 16

Getting There

You can reach the castle on foot by a scenic fifteen-minute walk through the woods from the parking lot or taking a much longer hike from a nearby town. On the other hand, you can cheat like we did and take the shuttle.

Photo 3A Cover photo Cheryl The Dramatic Burg Eltz August 16

Either way, you will have a “wow” moment when you round the corner and see Burg Eltz lying before you.

The History

Photo 4 Cover photo Cheryl The Dramatic Burg Eltz August 16

Unlike many castles that have been handed back and forth, or created only as an escape for royalty, Burg Eltz has been a real, live, lived-in castle since the first day its medieval construction. Yes, the same family has lived here for thirty generations, and during this time, Burg Eltz has never been destroyed. It was attacked once, but never conquered. And in the world of castles, this is rare. It allowed Burg Eltz to remain much as it was in its earliest days, and to be home to a vast collection of authentic family heirlooms and artifacts. I was able to take a few photos before our tour guide came in and gently reminded us that photos are not permitted. Oops.

Photo 5 Cover photo Cheryl The Dramatic Burg Eltz August 16

Inside the Castle Walls

Once inside the castle walls, the main courtyard is a hodgepodge of design styles, reflecting the fact that three different branches of the family once resided in the structure together.

photo 8 Cover photo Cheryl The Dramatic Burg Eltz August 16

Guided Tours

All tours are guided and depart every 10 to 15 minutes in German. Guided tours in other languages, including French, Dutch, and English, are also available but depart less frequently. Even more gems are present inside the residential quarters, as all tours include a visit to the rustic medieval kitchen and stately Knights Hall, where the families gathered for large feasts and conversation.

Burg Eltz is located in the Mosel Valley and is an easy drive, although the GPS address took us a bit off course. As you get closer to the castle, you will see signs for parking.

Address: Burg-Eltz-Straße 1, 56294 Münstermaifeld, Germany

The castle is just under 2 hours north of Kaiserslautern , 1 hour and 30 minutes northwest of Wiesbaden and 3 hours northwest of Stuttgart .

The castle is open to the public daily from March 24 to November 1. The hours are 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

Food, Restrooms & Souvenirs

photo 9 Cover photo Cheryl The Dramatic Burg Eltz August 16

Burg Eltz has a gift shop and two small cafes that serve meals and snacks. They are open daily when the castle is open. Restrooms are conveniently located outside the castle, near the café.

Credit cards are accepted at the gift shop, but you will need to bring Euro for the entrance fees, food, shuttle bus, parking, etc. Parking: 4€ Per vehicle Shuttle Bus: 2€ per person (each way) *Entrance: 14€ adults; 7€ students; 13€ per person for a group of 20 *Entrance fee includes admission to the Armoury & Treasury

Author’s Profile: Cheryl Koller is a native of Georgia. She is a DOD spouse, mom of 4 daughters (2 adults, 2 teens), thrill-seeker, avid traveler, and lover of food and wine. She is a self-proclaimed Freedom-Preneur and Blogger currently living in Ramstein with her family.

Categories: Castles , Community Favorites , Kid Friendly , KMC Area , Wiesbaden Area

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COMMENTS

Home page
Welcome to Eltz Castle. It is considered "the most beautiful castle in Europe", a "fairy tale in stone" and the epitome of a knight's castle. Take a look for yourself! Our family has been living in this castle, situated between Eifel, Moselle and Rhine, for 900 years. Eltz takes you back to the Middle Ages, with a fabulous treasury ...
Eltz Castle
There are no guided tours through this exhibition. Your entrance ticket includes your visit to the Armoury and Treasury. ... Foreign visitors are given a free brochure with an English translation of the labels at the entrance to the museum. ... Kastellanei Burg Eltz Burg Eltz 1 D-56294 Wierschem Germany. Telephone: +49 2672 95050-0. Fax: +49 ...
How to Visit Burg Eltz (AKA Eltz Castle) in 2024
When it's open for the season, Burg Eltz Castle hosts guided tours that last approximately 45 min. Be sure to clarify the tour times/languages when you arrive! Many tours will be conducted in German, but they do English, French and Dutch tours as well at specified times.
A Complete Guide To Visiting Burg Eltz, Germany's Fairytale Castle
The best time to visit Burg Eltz. The castle is only open from spring - Autumn (usually from the start of April to the end of October). You can find the exact dates here. The best time to visit is usually in the off-seasons, so in April and October. However, even in the peak season, it is not overly busy.
Eltz Castle
Burg Eltz was built in the 12th century and has been in the same family (35 generations) until the present day - never destroyed or conquered. ... to the castle. We bought a family ticket (4 people) for $34 euros. There are guide tours in English but there is a waiting time for it as there are more guide tours in German. The young guide tour ...
Burg Eltz
What are the best times to visit Burg Eltz in Germany. The best times to visit Burg Eltz are spring and autumn, when the weather is mild and the nature is colorful. The castle is open from April to November, from 9:30 am to 5:30 pm daily. You can join a guided tour of the castle interior, which lasts about 40 minutes and costs 10 euros per person.
The Ultimate Guide To Visiting The Fairytale Burg Eltz Castle
The guided castle tour is only available between April and October and the run all throughout the day. The cost is roughly €10 per person and tours are available in German and English. Getting to Burg Eltz. There's not many castles like the Burg Eltz being located in the middle of the forest away from society.
Visiting the Eltz Castle in Germany
Tours of Eltz Castle . German guided tours begin every 10-15 minutes and takes 35 — 40 minutes. English, French and Dutch tours are available by prior arrangement (call the castellan's office). The maximum waiting time is usually 30 minutes. Various language information sheets are available for those wanting to accompany a German tour.
Complete Guide To Visiting Burg Eltz In Germany
1.1 Getting to Castle Eltz. 1.2 Burg Eltz parking. 1.3 Admission fee. 1.4 Best time to visit. 2 Your visit. 2.1 The castle tour. 2.2 Taking pictures - avoiding the crowds. 2.3 Hiking around Castle Eltz. 3 Burg Eltz History.
Burg Eltz: A Guide on the Fairytale Castle in Germany
Burg Eltz is precisely that fairytale castle, a fortress untouched by the ravages of war, all thanks to the extensive political and social networks of the Eltz family. Nestled in Wierschem, Germany, this castle ap ... Guided tours are conducted in both English and German, with tours alternating every 20 minutes. To join the guided tour, simply ...
Things to Know Before Visiting Burg Eltz, Germany
850 years of history. The beginning of the construction of Burg Eltz can be traced back to the 9th century. Currently, the castle is owned and maintained by the 33rd generation of the Eltz family. Down the centuries, while the castle has inspired many writers, poets and painters, it has also faced invasion and destruction attempts.
Burg Eltz in Germany
Guided tours at Burg Eltz. A guided tour by one of the castle's expert guides begins every 10-15 minutes and takes 35 - 40 minutes. Foreign visitors who cannot attend a tour in their own language receive a free translation in Chinese, English, French, Italian, Japanese, Dutch, Portuguese, Russian or Spanish. Burg Eltz Contact info
Burg Eltz
8. Severuskirche. 11.44 MILES. The impressive late Romanesque 13th-century Severuskirche is built on the site of Roman military baths. Inside are polychrome wall paintings, a hanging…. View more attractions. At the head of the beautiful Moselle side-valley the Eltz, Burg Eltz is one of Germany's most romantic medieval castles.
Burg Eltz (Eltz Castle): A German Fairytale Hidden in a Wooded Dell
Burg Eltz (Eltz Castle) looks like something from a fairytale. ... Nowadays, the only way to see the innards of Burg Eltz is via a 45min guided tour - happily, there are a couple of English tours every day. The one downside of the touring mechanism is that photography of the rooms and chambers is strictly forbidden (you'll have probably ...
Everything you need to know to visit Eltz Castle, Germany
Burg Eltz - Fairytale Castle in Germany. Burg Eltz (or Eltz Castle in English) is a straight out of the fairytale, enchanting medieval castle enthroned in the middle of a dense forest on Moselle valley, between Koblenz and Cochem in Germany.. This beautiful 80-room castle is over 850 years old; built in the 12 th century by the three families Eltz-Kempenich, Eltz-Rübenach and Eltz-Rodendorf.
Day Trip to Burg Eltz
Burg Eltz Castle Tour. Just like any other castle in Germany, you need to take a guided tour in order to see the interiors of the Burg Eltz castle. These tours last around 35-40 minutes each and are conducted in German, English and French. For tourists who do not speak these languages, they also have fliers in Dutch, Portuguese, Italian ...
Germany's Most Gorgeous Castle, Eltz Castle (Burg Eltz)
Burg Eltz Entrance Fee. Technically, there isn't a fee to visit Burg Eltz. However, there is a €2 parking fee and €10 for an adult for the guided castle tour. If you are short on time you can catch the shuttle bus from the parking lot next to the Antonius Chapel, it is €2 per person each way.
Eltz Castle
Tour A - Castle Eltz. Visit with us on a day trip this perfectly preserved and beautifully situated castle. You will experience the 850 years old, exciting history of this facility and its inhabitants. ... German / English tour guide; Entrance to the castle; Dinner in restaurant; Prices. Adult: € 258,00 pp; Children: € 155,00 pp (until 12 ...
Wiesbaden Community Spouses Club
Burg Eltz English Tour When. 20 Oct 2023 . 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM. Location. Burg Eltz, Germany. Spaces left. 18. Registration. Burg Eltz English Tour - $20.00 Note: price is in euros, this event will happen on the economy. Come experience this historical castle that has been held by the same family for over 900 years. The entrance fee also ...
Eltz Castle
Eltz Castle (German: Burg Eltz) is a medieval castle nestled in the hills above the Moselle between Koblenz and Trier, Germany.It is still owned by a branch of House of Eltz who have lived there since the 12th century. Eltz Castle along with Bürresheim Castle and Lissingen Castle are the only castles in the Eifel region which have never been destroyed.. The castle stands on a 70-metre-high ...
Explore The Famous Burg Eltz
Burg Eltz is located in the Mosel Valley and is an easy drive, although the GPS address took us a bit off course. As you get closer to the castle, you will see signs for parking. Address: Burg-Eltz-Straße 1, 56294 Münstermaifeld, Germany. The castle is just under 2 hours north of Kaiserslautern, 1 hour and 30 minutes northwest of Wiesbaden ...