Farming runes in Elden Ring can be the difference between a smooth playthrough and a constant struggle. Whether you're a new Tarnished or a seasoned veteran, finding efficient rune farming methods is crucial to leveling up, upgrading gear, and progressing through the game. In this guide, we'll walk you through the 10 best ways to farm runes fast in Elden Ring based on real in-game experience, community-tested strategies, and reliable results.

If you're short on time or looking for an immediate boost, many players also choose to buy Elden Ring runes from reputable sources. However, if you want to earn them yourself, the methods below will serve you well.

1. Mohgwyn Palace – Albinauric Farm

This is arguably the best rune farming spot in Elden Ring. Accessible through a portal or White Mask Varre's questline, the area is packed with Albinauric enemies that drop thousands of runes per kill. Using a weapon with a wide AoE, like the Sacred Relic Sword, can net you up to 10 million runes per hour with the Gold Scarab equipped.

2. Bird Rune Farm – Mohgwyn Dynasty Mausoleum

Just before the Albinauric camp, there’s a giant bird across the blood lake. Shooting it with a bow causes it to run off a cliff, granting over 11,000 runes instantly. Repeat this process from the nearby Site of Grace for fast, low-risk gains.

3. Greyoll the Dragon – Dragonbarrow

Killing Greyoll, the sleeping giant dragon, grants you over 70,000 runes plus runes from her smaller companions. This is a one-time farm, but with a bleed weapon like Reduvia or Blood Uchigatana, it’s a quick and easy method early in the game.

4. War-Dead Catacombs – Radahn’s Battlefield

After defeating Radahn, head to the War-Dead Catacombs where ghosts endlessly fight each other. By standing back, you can passively earn runes. Equip the Gold Scarab for maximum profit, though the returns are slower compared to active farming.

5. Windmill Village – Altus Plateau

This area is packed with frenzied celebrants who are relatively weak but drop decent runes. After clearing them all, rest at the nearby Site of Grace and repeat. It’s a good mid-game method that doesn’t require endgame gear.

6. Zamor Ruins – Mountaintops of the Giants

Enemies here are fast and deadly but also drop tens of thousands of runes. Using stealth or ranged magic can help take them down without a high risk of dying. It’s an effective high-level farming spot.

7. Caria Manor – Liurnia of the Lakes

Post-Ranni’s questline, you can access areas filled with enemies that drop a good amount of runes and crafting materials. It’s not the fastest method, but great for simultaneous farming and item collection.

8. Leyndell Soldiers – Forbidden Lands

Between the Grand Lift and the capital outskirts, these soldiers are strong but not overwhelming. They drop substantial runes and patrol in manageable groups. If you’re well-geared, this spot pays off quickly.

9. Nokstella – Eternal City

The enemies in this hidden underground city hit hard but drop significant runes. It’s also one of the most beautiful locations in Elden Ring, making the grind more enjoyable.

10. Volcano Manor Assassination Quests

Completing contracts for Tanith at Volcano Manor not only gives you rewards but also net you runes and items from PvE invasions. This is a slower method but more immersive and ideal for roleplay-oriented players.

Bonus Tip: Equip the Gold Scarab Talisman

The Gold Scarab significantly boosts rune acquisition. Found in the Abandoned Cave in Caelid, this talisman is a must-have for any serious farmer. Combine it with rune-boosting consumables like the Gold-Pickled Fowl Foot for maximum efficiency.

Final Thoughts

These farming methods offer a mix of early-game and late-game options, ensuring there's something for everyone. Whether you’re grinding manually or choosing to buy Elden Ring runes for convenience, making smart decisions about rune acquisition can drastically improve your gameplay experience.

Remember, efficient farming not only saves time but also helps you enjoy the rich, challenging world of Elden Ring without unnecessary frustration. Keep exploring, stay prepared, and may your rune count rise as high as the Erdtree.

Would you like a visual map of these farming locations?