Eltville is a town shaped by medieval heritage, wine culture, and the calm presence of the Rhine, giving it an atmosphere that feels both historic and gently refined. Its origins go back to the Middle Ages, and it is considered the oldest and largest town in the Rheingau, holding city rights since 1332 . The settlement grew around the residence of the archbishops and electors of Mainz, who used the castle here from the 14th century onward, turning Eltville into an important political and ecclesiastical center along the river . The old town still reflects this long history: narrow lanes, timber-framed houses, patrician estates, and remnants of the medieval fortifications create a setting that feels intimate and deeply rooted in the region’s past .
The Kurfürstliche Burg remains the town’s defining landmark. Built in the 14th century and expanded over several decades, it served as a residence for the Mainz electors and hosted important political gatherings, including the ennoblement of Johannes Gutenberg in 1465 . Today, the castle’s tower houses a museum dedicated to Gutenberg and the town’s history, while the rose gardens surrounding it—established in the 20th century—earned Eltville the title of “Rose Town” in 1988 . These gardens, together with the riverside promenades and historic squares, give the town a gentle, elegant character.
Viticulture is central to Eltville’s identity. The town sits at the heart of the Rheingau, surrounded by vineyards that benefit from the south-facing slopes of the Taunus foothills and the moderating influence of the Rhine . Riesling and sparkling Sekt are the region’s specialties, and wine estates, tasting rooms, and seasonal festivals shape the rhythm of local life. The landscape transitions from the flat riverbank to rolling hills covered in vines, forests, and ravines, creating a varied and harmonious environment that defines the town’s surroundings .
The site exists in 15 languages
click on the flag below.
Eltville Electoral Castle (Kurfürstliche Burg)
A 14th-century riverside castle with a tower, moat, and famous rose gardens.
Eberbach Abbey (Kloster Eberbach)
A monumental former Cistercian monastery and one of the Rheingau’s most important historic sites.
Eltville Old Town
A charming medieval center with noble estates, courtyards, and a romantic Rhine promenade.
Rose Gardens of Eltville
Historic rose beds surrounding the castle, reflecting the city’s title as Germany’s official “Rose City.”
City Wall at Kiliansring
A preserved section of the medieval fortifications with a surviving half-shell tower.
Platz am Breitenstein (Entenplatz)
A historic square once used for washing, trade, and daily life in medieval Eltville.
Weinstube Gelbes Haus
A traditional wine tavern frequently highlighted among the town’s top culinary stops.
Local Wineries & Vineyards
Dozens of Rheingau vineyards offering tastings, tours, and panoramic views.
Wine Tastings & Cellars
Popular tasting experiences showcasing Riesling and Spätburgunder from the region.
Rhine Promenade
A peaceful riverside walkway lined with historic houses and scenic viewpoints.
Eltville Tourist Information Center
The main hub for maps, guided tours, and regional wine recommendations.
Historic Timber-Framed Houses
Traditional buildings scattered throughout the Old Town, adding to its medieval charm.
Craftsmen’s Quarter (near Entenplatz)
The former district of fishermen, coopers, carpenters, and tanners.
Rheingau Vineyard Trails
Walking and cycling routes through rolling vineyards above the Rhine.
Regional Wine Tours
Guided excursions combining castles, abbeys, and tastings across the Rheingau.
Nearby Rhine River Cruises
Scenic cruises connecting Eltville with Rüdesheim, Bingen, and the UNESCO Rhine Gorge.
Eltville Castle Tower Climb
A short ascent offering views over the Rhine and the rose gardens.
Local Courtyards & Noble Estates
Elegant historic properties accessible during walks through the Old Town.
Eltville Wine Festivals
Seasonal events celebrating Rheingau wine culture with tastings and music.
Regional Day Trips to Mainz
Easy access to Mainz’s cathedral, old town, and wine-themed experiences.
different websites
Eltville.de (official portal)
Visit-Niedersachsen.com (by Hannover Marketing)
Visit Deutschland.com (hopefully soon)
Visit Germany.com (hopefully soon)
Visit Europe.com (official travel portal)
