If we’re visiting Saxony, Germany, the Elster Valley Bridge (Elstertalbrücke) is a must-see landmark. Standing 68 meters high and spanning the White Elster Valley near Jocketa, it’s the second-largest brick bridge in the world, after the Göltzschtal Viaduct.

Built entirely of bricks, it’s both an engineering marvel and a stunning scenic attraction. Visiting here, we experience a mix of history, architecture, and nature, making it perfect for photographers, families, and railway enthusiasts alike.

Opening Hours and Tickets

The bridge itself is freely accessible from public viewing points at any time—there are no standard entrance fees.

- Guided tours offered by local tourism offices may cost around $6–$11 per person, depending on the season.

- There are no restricted hours for photography or hiking around the bridge, but local trails may be less maintained in winter.

Best Time to Visit

- Spring (April–June): Green valleys and clear skies make the bricks pop.

- Summer (July–September): Ideal weather for hiking and photography; expect more visitors.

- Autumn (October): Warm fall colors create a beautiful backdrop.

- Winter (November–March): Trails can be icy; best for a quick visit rather than hiking.

For photography, early morning or late afternoon is best.

How to Get There

By Train:

- The bridge sits on the Leipzig–Hof railway line.

- Take a regional train to Jocketa station, then walk 15–20 minutes to the main viewpoints.

- Tickets from Leipzig to Jocketa cost around $17–$22 one-way for adults.

By Car:

- From Leipzig or Hof, take the highway toward Jocketa and follow local roads to the valley.

- Limited free parking is available near the trails.

By Bus:

- Local buses connect Jocketa to nearby hiking trails.

- Ticket prices are around $3–$6 per ride.

Accommodation Options Nearby

For an overnight stay, we have several choices:

1. Hotel Weißer Elster (Jocketa) – Double rooms from $88–$132 per night, with breakfast included.

2. Guesthouse Jocketa – Cozy family-run rooms from $55–$77 per night, with simple breakfast.

3. Nearby Hof or Plauen – Larger hotels with amenities, rooms $77–$165 per night, about 20–30 minutes drive.

Booking in advance is recommended, especially in summer months.

Dining Options and Prices

While local cafés are limited, we can find some options in Jocketa:

- Café am Fluss – Coffee, pastries, sandwiches: $3–$13 per person.

- Gasthaus zum Elsterblick – Traditional German meals: $13–$22 per main dish.

- Nearby Hof or Plauen restaurants – More variety including international cuisine: $16–$33 per person.

Bringing a light snack or picnic is a great idea if we plan to explore the valley for a few hours.

Visitor Tips

- Shoes: Wear comfortable hiking shoes for the trails and viewpoints.

- Timing: Arrive early to avoid crowds and get the best lighting for photography.

- Photography: The valley floor gives excellent shots of the bridge; hiking trails offer closer views.

- Safety: Stay on paths; the railway is active, and walking on tracks is dangerous.

- Duration: Allow 2–3 hours to fully explore, walk trails, and take photos.

Nearby Attractions

While visiting the bridge, we can also explore:

- White Elster River trails – Walking or cycling in scenic valleys.

- Historic Jocketa – Small town with cafés and local shops.

- Other Saxony viaducts – Learn about the region’s railway engineering heritage.

Photography and Observation

For photographers among us:

- Valley floor: Wide-angle views of the entire bridge.

- Hiking trails: Close-up views of brick arches and structure.

- Sunrise/sunset: Bricks glow with warm colors, creating the perfect shot.

- Drones can offer aerial perspectives if local rules allow.

Why You Should Visit

Visiting the Elster Valley Bridge is more than sightseeing—it’s a journey through history, architecture, and nature. We leave feeling inspired by a structure that has stood over a century, carrying trains across the White Elster Valley while offering breathtaking views. With nearby accommodation, dining, and practical travel tips, a trip here is accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

We hope this guide helps you plan your visit perfectly and inspires you to explore Saxony’s hidden engineering gems just like we did.