Name: Eltz Castle
Item: Eltz Castle
Author: RealGermanExperience

Discover the allure of Germany’s timeless history with a visit to Eltz Castle, an unparalleled treasure tucked away in the serene Eltz Forest. Unscathed by wars and standing resolute through the ebb and flow of centuries, the castle is an architectural masterpiece that offers visitors a unique journey back in time.

Eltz Castle, or Burg Eltz, is more than just an edifice. Its eight soaring towers, reaching heights of 35 metres, oriels, timber-frame structures, and turrets present an immaculate picture of medieval architecture. The castle was strategically built to secure the trade routes between Mosel, Maifeld, and Eifel, with remnants of Celtic and Roman fortifications adding to its historical depth.

Unlike other castles, Eltz stood unconquered until the early 14th century, when long-range catapults and the advent of siege castles under Elector Balduin of Trier forced its surrender in 1336. Yet, its architectural splendour remains, paying testament to its enduring spirit.

The castle is located in a side valley of the Moselle, perched on a 70-meter high rock, surrounded by the Eltzbach on three sides. This untouched setting, far from the hustle and bustle of modern life, adds to the castle’s charm and offers a genuine medieval experience to visitors. The Berlin art professor Hermann Wiesler perfectly encapsulates its enchantment with the phrase: “The good Germany turned into stone”.

Eltz Castle isn’t just an architectural marvel. It’s a living museum, with 80 of its 120 rooms opened for public viewing. The castle’s treasury is another highlight, boasting one of the most significant private collections with over 500 exhibits spanning nine centuries.

The castle owes its name to the stream Eltzbach. The term is believed to originate from the Old German words “Els” or “Else”, both denoting the black alder, a tree found along rivers. Interestingly, the castle also featured on the German 500 DM banknote from 1961 to 1995, underscoring its cultural significance.

Having been in the Eltz family for over 800 years, the castle is now under the stewardship of Count Johann-Jakob zu Eltz, representing the 34th generation. Under the watchful eyes of the German Stimulus Program II and the German Foundation for the Protection of Monuments, extensive restoration work was carried out between 2009 and 2012, helping maintain the castle’s grandeur.

Visitors can explore the castle daily from April 1st to November 1st, between 09:30 to 17:00. Admission includes access to a guided tour, the inner courtyard, and the treasury. The guided tours, led by trained professionals, start at regular intervals in the upper courtyard, with each tour lasting around 35-40 minutes.

When planning your trip to Germany, be sure to include Eltz Castle in your itinerary. Discover the rich heritage, breathtaking architecture, and captivating history that makes this medieval gem a must-visit destination. As you wander through its magnificent halls and lush surroundings, you will truly feel as though you have stepped back in time. Immerse yourself in the beauty and tranquillity of the Eltz Forest and create unforgettable memories at Eltz Castle, a quintessential piece of Germany’s rich history.

Entrance Fees for the Guided Tour and the Treasury:
Adults € 14.00
Adults in a group of more than 20 people* each € 13.00
Students and disabled visitors € 7
Students in school classes** each € 6.00
Family Ticket (2 adults, 2 children) € 34.00

The tour guide and the bus driver can enter free of charge
** A teacher and the bus driver can enter free of charge

Pets are not allowed indoors at Eltz Castle.

Opening Times:

Eltz Castle is open daily from 1 April to 1 November from 09:30 to 17:00 (last admission at the castle gate).

The Treasury can be visited independently with your ticket between 09:30 and 18:15.

You can reach the car park at Eltz Castle by car, motorbike or bus from Münstermaifeld and Wierschem. On weekends and public holidays the new ÖPNB “Burgenbus” (Castle Bus) from the Moselle also stops here.

Parking Fees
for cars / motorbikes € 2,00
for cars with trailers / camper vans € 4,00
for busses free of charge

Routes accessible for busses from the Mosel Road B 416 to Eltz Castle
From Coblenz: L 113 from Hatzenport to Münstermaifeld
From Cochem: L 110 from Karden to Münstermaifeld

How to get to Eltz Castle from the Car Park
On Foot
There is a footpath from the lower car park (1.3 km, approx. 15 minutes)
There is also a tarred road for the shuttle bus (800 m, approx. 10 minutes)
By Shuttle Bus
The bus stop is at the barrier next to the Antonius Chapel
Price per person and trip: € 2,00

The Bus takes you and your bicycle from the Moselle to Eltz Castle and back. Weekends and holidays only.
The “Burgenbus” (Castle Bus) 330 runs four times a day from May to October, only on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays.
Route: From Treis-Karden via Pyrmont Castle, Eltz Castle to Hatzenport and back.

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