Burg Eltz - Visit One Of The Most Beautiful Castle of Germany

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

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.

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:

By Car:
- 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.
By Train and Bus:
- 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.
Guided Tours:
- 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.
If you want to eat at a village near the castle, you can choose from several options:
- 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!