Farming Elden Ring runes efficiently is crucial for leveling up, upgrading gear, and surviving the punishing landscapes of the Lands Between. As a long-time Elden Ring player with over 300 hours logged across multiple playthroughs, I've tested nearly every rune farming method in the game, including the more treacherous routes inside the Legacy Dungeons. In this guide, I’ll share the 7 best ways to farm runes specifically while exploring these challenging yet rewarding areas.
Whether you're a new Tarnished or a seasoned veteran, these methods will help you maximize your rune gain without the need to constantly revisit open-world farming spots. I’ll also share how I personally handle rune shortages when I’m short on time, including the safest way to buy Elden Ring runes with Stripe through trusted platforms like U4GM.
1. Clear Out Castle Morne’s Upper Levels
Castle Morne is one of the earlier Legacy Dungeons, and it’s an underrated spot for early rune farming. The Misbegotten enemies here drop a decent amount of runes, and with a bit of patience, you can make loops around the upper levels. When I was still learning the ropes, I used this area to gain enough levels to wield heavier gear before tackling Stormveil Castle.
Tip: Equip the Gold Scarab talisman to boost rune acquisition.
2. Repeated Runs Through Stormveil Castle’s Side Paths
Stormveil Castle is the game’s first major Legacy Dungeon, and it’s packed with tough but manageable enemies. Knights and birds can be tricky, but they drop a good number of runes. The side paths and hidden routes in particular are less traveled and allow you to isolate enemies for safer farming.
I used this method extensively during my first blind playthrough. I spent hours rerouting through the secluded sections, netting tens of thousands of runes without ever stepping outside the dungeon.
3. Use the Cleanrot Knights in Aeonia Swamp (Rooted Depths)
This area becomes accessible later in the game, and the Cleanrot Knights within the dungeon corridors are rune-rich enemies. Their high difficulty is balanced by a high rune payout. I often enter this area fully stocked on flasks, take down just a few knights, and fast-travel out for a reset.
Experience Note: These knights taught me how to parry effectively—plus, the 2,000+ runes per kill made the learning curve worthwhile.
4. Caria Manor’s Rear Guard Loops
While not technically a Legacy Dungeon, Caria Manor plays out similarly and offers tight corridors and heavily packed enemy groups. The hands are creepy but incredibly rune-rich. Looping the northern section where spectral knights and hands patrol is my go-to method during mid-game farming.
When I was low on upgrade materials and needed a few extra rune levels for Vigor, this was my secret spot. I often made a quick loop in 10 minutes and gained around 20k runes, enough for a level or two.
5. Capital City (Leyndell) Main Street Sweep
Once you gain access to Leyndell, the main streets are crawling with elite enemies, including soldiers, archers, and spellcasters. These enemies drop upwards of 1,000 runes each, and the density makes it ideal for high-level farming.
I usually bring AoE spells like Comet Azur or Night Comet and clear rows of enemies quickly. If you’re confident in your build, this place is a goldmine.
6. Mohgwyn Palace via Dynasty Mausoleum
If you've progressed far enough to unlock Mohgwyn Palace through Varre’s questline, this spot is arguably the most efficient rune farm in the entire game. The Albinaurics here drop a huge number of runes, and you can snipe them from cliffs for even safer farming.
Personal Insight: This is where I farm when I’m short on time but need a rune boost. It’s also the best place to test out rune farming builds.
7. Godskin Duo Arena Reset
After defeating the Godskin Duo in Crumbling Farum Azula, the arena can still be accessed. The enemies that spawn outside and around this area offer significant rune rewards. With fast resets and short travel times, this is a late-game farming goldmine.
In New Game+, I often use this route between boss fights to top off my rune reserves. A 5-minute loop can easily result in 30k–40k runes with proper talismans and gear.
What to Do When Farming Isn’t Enough?
While farming is part of the Elden Ring experience, I understand that not every player has hours to grind. When I was juggling work and gameplay, I chose to buy Elden Ring runes with Stripe from U4GM. It’s a reliable and safe method, especially when you're short on time or just want to test new builds quickly. U4GM offers quick delivery and transparent payment options, and Stripe adds an extra layer of financial security.
Exploring Legacy Dungeons is one of the most exciting parts of Elden Ring, and rune farming can be seamlessly integrated into this experience. With the right routes and a little persistence, you'll find yourself gaining levels naturally as you enjoy the intricately designed dungeons. And when time’s short, platforms like U4GM are a trustworthy way to ensure you’re always ready for the next challenge.
Next Steps: How to Avoid Rune Loss in Elden Ring