Located in the scenic Eifel region, Eltz Castle is one of Germany’s most stunning and well-preserved castles. Hidden deep in a forest valley, this fairytale castle has never been destroyed and remains owned by the same family for over 850 years.
Why is Eltz Castle special?
Never destroyed – one of the few castles in Germany untouched by war
- Still privately owned – in the same family for 33 generations
Authentic medieval interiors – original furniture from 500+ years ago
Stunning photography spot – surrounded by untouched nature
How to get to Eltz Castle?
By Car:
- From Ramstein Air Base: The distance is approximately 188 kilometers, translating to a drive of about 2 hours.
- Directions: Take the A63 towards Mainz, merge onto the A60 towards Koblenz, then follow the A61 to exit 41 (Koblenz/Waldesch). From there, follow signs to Münstermaifeld and continue to Eltz Castle.
- Parking: Available near the castle (7-10€), with a shuttle bus (2-3€) or a 15–20 minute walk leading to the entrance.
🥾 Best hiking route:
- Eltz Castel Panorama Trail (12.6 km loop, 4 hours) – great views! → view on outdooractive.com
- Start: Dorfgemeinschaftshaus Wierschem → view on Google
By Train & Bus:
- From Kaiserslautern: Take a train (RE17) to Koblenz Hauptbahnhof. From there, transfer to a regional train (RB81) to Hatzenport, followed by bus 365 to the Eltz Castle parking area. Note that public transport may be more time-consuming.
- 🥾 Or, continue (RB81) for 5 minutes to Moselkern and hike to the Castel. It’s a scenic trail leads from Moselkern station through the Elzbach valley directly to the castle. The hike is approximately 5 kilometers and takes about 1.5 hours.
Opening Hours & Tickets (2025)
Opening Times:
- April – November: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (daily)
Ticket Prices (incl. Castle tour, courtyard & treasury): → current information
- Adult: 14 €
- Pupils/Student: 7€
- Family Ticket: 34 €
What to see inside Eltz Castle?
Guided Tour:
- Duration: 45 minutes
Highlights: Knight’s Hall, armory, medieval bedrooms
English-language tours are available upon request.
Treasury Room
Over 500 artifacts, including gold coins & medieval jewelry
📸 Best Photograpy Spots
- Best castel view: From the scenic viewpoint (10-minute walk)
- Secret tip: Visit a sunrise or sunset für amazing shots
Cultural Tips
- Language: While many staff members speak English, learning a few basic German phrases can enhance your experience.
- Payment Methods: In rural areas of Germany, credit cards may not be widely accepted. It’s prudent to carry sufficient cash.
- Local Cuisine: Take the opportunity to sample regional specialties such as “Sauerbraten” or “Flammkuchen” at nearby eateries.
Q&A - about Visiting Eltz Castle
Can I visit the castle without a tour?
Yes, from the outside, although you can’t get through the gate, but the bridge in front of it and the forest are accessible 24/7. The interior can only be visited with a guided tour.
What’s the best time to visit?
Early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds. (We took the last tour, and it was perfect. After the castle gates closed, you could still take perfect pictures without any people.)
Are there restaurants nearby?
Yes, the castle restaurant serves local German food.
Conclusion: Is Eltz Castle Worth Visiting?
Absolutely! Whether you’re into history, photography, or hiking, Eltz Castle is a must-visit fairytale destination in Germany. Visiting Eltz Castle offers a unique glimpse into German history and architecture, set amidst breathtaking natural surroundings. Whether for a day trip or a longer stay, Eltz Castle is a must-see for anyone eager to explore Germany’s cultural treasures.
Restrictions on taking photos and publishing the images!
Photos and videos of Eltz Castle may only be used for private purposes. Therefore, I recommend visiting the official Eltz Castle website to get a visual impression.
