When Elden Ring was released, it redefined the open-world action RPG genre with its seamless world design, haunting atmosphere, and a rich landscape full of discovery. Set in the mysterious Lands Between, the game offers players not just a map—but an experience of exploration that rewards curiosity at every turn.
Unlike typical open-world games, Elden Ring doesn’t handhold. It dares you to carve your own path, uncover secrets, stumble into danger, and come out stronger. But with a world this massive, where should you go first? Which regions offer the best experiences, rewards, and unforgettable battles?
Here are 7 must-visit regions in Elden Ring’s open world that every Tarnished adventurer should explore.
1. Limgrave – Your First Real Test
Limgrave is the starting area of Elden Ring and sets the tone perfectly. From the iconic Tree Sentinel to the hidden dungeon catacombs, this region teaches you the game’s fundamental mechanics. Don’t miss:
- The Church of Elleh (first merchant and crafting)
- Agheel Lake (massive dragon fight)
- Murkwater Cave (Patches encounter)
This area is deceptively rich in content and has plenty of side paths to explore for early-game weapons, armor, and Ashes of War.
2. Liurnia of the Lakes – A Foggy Realm of Sorcery
North of Stormveil Castle lies Liurnia, a mystical lake region shrouded in fog and full of magical threats. It’s home to:
- Raya Lucaria Academy (massive legacy dungeon full of sorcerers)
- NPC questlines including Ranni’s and Sellen’s
- Secret caves and catacombs with powerful sorcery gear
If you’re pursuing a magic-based build, this is your paradise. It’s also one of the most atmospheric zones in the game.
3. Caelid – A Wasteland of Rot and Madness
Caelid is where things get truly disturbing. With its crimson skies, grotesque enemies, and the ever-present threat of Scarlet Rot, this area is not for the faint-hearted. Key highlights:
- Sellia, Town of Sorcery
- Greyoll’s Dragonbarrow for massive dragon fights
- Radahn Festival – one of the most iconic boss events
This region punishes the reckless but rewards the brave with high-tier loot and crucial lore.
4. Altus Plateau – The Golden City’s Gateway
Reaching Altus Plateau feels like a major milestone. It’s the region just before the capital and is full of breathtaking sights and new challenges. Here you’ll find:
- The Shaded Castle
- Mt. Gelmir and its fiery horrors
- Access to Leyndell, Royal Capital
With stronger enemies and layered terrain, Altus tests your mid-game readiness and exploration instincts.
5. Leyndell, Royal Capital – A Masterpiece of Design
Arguably the most stunning legacy dungeon in the game, Leyndell is a labyrinthine city filled with powerful foes, twisting paths, and grand architecture. Notable features:
- Iconic boss battles
- Hidden underground areas
- Crucial story progression
Exploring Leyndell feels like navigating an actual fallen empire—it’s dense, dangerous, and unforgettable.
6. Mountaintops of the Giants – Where the World Burns
As one of the late-game regions, the Mountaintops bring snow, fire, and despair. The area contains:
- Fire Giant boss – a colossal and challenging encounter
- Forge of the Giants – key to story progression
- Freezing Lake & hidden Evergaols
The haunting emptiness here contrasts with previous regions, adding emotional weight to your journey.
7. Siofra River & Nokron – A Hidden World Below
Elden Ring’s underground areas are as massive and mysterious as the surface world. Siofra River introduces players to an ancient, star-lit underworld. Highlights PEH888 include:
- Nokron, Eternal City
- Astel and other cosmic horrors
- Unique crafting materials and powerful Spirit Ashes
These regions are often missed by casual players—but for those who explore every nook and cranny, they offer the game’s deepest rewards.
Conclusion: Explore Without Limits in Elden Ring’s Breathtaking World
From the rolling hills of Limgrave to the eerie ruins of Nokron, Elden Ring’s open world is a masterclass in exploration. Each region offers unique challenges, rich lore, and game-changing rewards. Whether you’re chasing glory, lore, or loot—there’s always something waiting around the next fog-covered corner.
So saddle up on Torrent, Tarnished. The Lands Between won’t explore themselves—and the secrets within are worth every death and detour.