Skyrim: 20 Best Quests [55 Hours Experience]

We know you are eager for the best rewards and storyline in Skyrim, and for that, we have these best 20 Quests in Skyrim!

To get a quest in Skyrim, you need to interact with NPCs throughout the game. The quests include objectives like retrieving something, defeating a boss, or solving puzzles. Once you complete a quest, you will usually be rewarded with something valuable and rare. However, not all quests reward you the same. Therefore, depending on the reward and story, there are 20 best quests that you should complete in Skyrim.

Skyrim Best Quests

Here are some notable quests and their rewards in Skyrim:

  1. Companions Quest – Become their leader.
  2. College of Winterhold Quest – Gain access to new spells, abilities, and perks.
  3. Innocence Lost Quest – Receive the Aretino Family Heirloom.
  4. The Way of the Voice Quest – Learn all words of the Whirlwind Sprint.
  5. Hard Answers Quest – Obtain the Nightingale Blade.
  6. House of Horrors Quest – Get The Mace of Molag Bal.
  7. Forbidden Legend Quest – Acquire an amulet with 30 points of health, magicka, and stamina.
  8. The Mind of Madness Quest – Obtain Wabbajack.
  9. Kyne’s Sacred Trials Quest – Get Froki’s Bow and Kyne’s Token.
  10. The Cursed Tribe Quest – Receive the Volendrung mace.
  11. To Kill an Empire Quest – Offers high stakes and a plot twist.

Here is a quick glance at some of the Best Quests in Skyrim:

QuestsRewardLocation
Diplomatic ImmunityGold
Opportunities in the Thieves Guild questline
Takes place in and around Thalmor Embassy in Solitude
The CompanionsTitle of Harbinger of the Companions
Wuuthrad battleaxe
Takes place in and around the city of Whiterun
The College of WinterholdTitle of Arch-Mage
New dialogue options
Powerful spells and enchantments
Takes place in and around the city of Winterhold
Black Book QuestsBlack Book powerLocated in Skyrim’s Solstheim region which is added by the Dragonborn DLC
Innocence LostAretino Family Heirloom
Access to the Dark Brotherhood questline
Located in Windhelm city, in the northeastern corner of Skyrim
The Way of the VoiceAbility to use Unrelenting Force
Access to the Greybeards
Begins in High Hrothgar, located on the peak of the Throat of the World mountain
The Forsworn ConspiracyAccess to the Markarth storyline
Leveled amount of gold
Located in Markarth, a city in the western region
Hard AnswersAdvances the Thieves Guild storyline
Leveled amount of gold
Nightingale Blade or Bow
Takes place in various locations including Twilight Sepulcher, the Snow Veil Sanctum
and the Riftweald Manor
A Night to RememberSanguine Rose
Humorous dialogue options
Takes place in various locations including Markarth, Rorikstead, and Whiterun
Battle for WhiterunThe title of Stormblade
Stormblade weapon
A housecarl named Lydia
A house in Whiterun called “Breezehome”
Takes place in the city of Whiterun, located in the central region of Skyrim
The House of HorrorsMace of Molag Bal artifactStart by speaking to a Vigilant of Stendarr named Tyranus, found in Markarth
Hail Sithis!Ability to repeat the quest for gold rewards
New location to use as base for Dark Brotherhood
Start by speaking to Nazir in the Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary
Blood on the IceWindy Edge weapon
Ability to purchase Hjerim house
Initiated by entering the city of Windhelm and head towards the graveyard at night
Forgotten NamesVelehk Sain’s Treasure Map
2 Scimitars
Hammerfell Garb1
Redguard Boots
The players will find The Midden Dark & a room with a gauntlet-like statue,
beneath the College of Winterhold
Forbidden Legend“Gauldur Blackblade” weapon
Gauldur Amulet artifact
Dragonrend shout
Read the book Lost Legends to start the quest
Waking NightmareSkull of CorruptionStart by speaking to a strange man Erandur in Windpeak Inn in Dawnstar
Kyne’s Sacred TrialsKyne’s Sacred Trials
Froki’s Bow
Title of Huntsman/Huntress
Initiated by speaking to Froki Whetted-Blade at his cabin in the south of Ivarstead
The Mind Of MadnessWabbajack
Title of “Champion of Sheogorath
Started by speaking to a strange man Dervenin around the Solitude streets
The Cursed TribeThe Volendrung
Largashbur
Initiated by speaking to the orc named Atub located in the Rift region of Skyrim
To Kill An EmpireEmperor’s Robes
Gold
Part of the Dark Brotherhood questline, takes place in province of Haafingar

20. Diplomatic Immunity

Skyrim: Diplomatic Immunity Quest
The Diplomatic Immunity Quest [Image Credit: eXputer]
Quest Location:

  • The Diplomatic Immunity quest takes place in the Thalmor Embassy in Solitude.

Quest Rewards:

  • Completion of the quest rewards the player with a good amount of gold.
  • New dialogue options with Vex and other members of the Thieves Guild are also unlocked.
  • Completing the quest opens up new quests and opportunities in the Thieves Guild questline.
  • Reputation and impact on the Thalmor and others will also be affected depending on the players choices.

Quest Length:

  • The Diplomatic Immunity quest is a major quest in the game and can take several hours to complete depending on the players approach.

Quest Difficulty:

  • The quest can be challenging due to the need to sneak into the Thalmor Embassy and avoid detection.
  • The player must steal the Eagle of the Falmer artifact without being caught which requires careful planning and execution and must also be careful when returning the artifact to Vex in Riften to avoid being detected.

To start the “Diplomatic Immunity” quest, visit Vex, a member of the Thieves Guild. Your mission is to infiltrate the Thalmor Embassy in Solitude and steal the valuable artifact known as the Eagle of the Falmer.

Begin by meeting Vex in Riften to initiate the quest and gather information. Travel to Solitude to infiltrate the Thalmor Embassy, making sure to stay undetected while exploring. You’ll locate the Eagle of the Falmer in Elwen’s Solar, so steal it cautiously.

Return quietly to Riften without unnecessary aggression. Finally, give the Eagle of the Falmer to Vex in Riften to complete the quest.

19. The Companions

Skyrim: The Companions Quest
The Companions Quest [Image Credit Copyright: eXputer]
Quest Location:

  • The Companions questline takes place in Whiterun and the surrounding area.

Quest Rewards:

  • The title of Harbinger of the Companions, a prestigious position within the group, is the first prize for completing the questline.
  • By consuming Aela the Huntress’s blood, the player can also gain access to a unique and potent form that they can employ to fight foes and improve their powers.
  • After the Companions questline is finished, the potent Wuuthrad battleaxe, a legendary weapon that does more damage against elves, becomes available.

Quest Length:

  • It can take approximately 6-8 hours to complete the main storyline of the Companions questline in Skyrim.

Quest Difficulty:

  • Due to the possibility of running across powerful foes along the road, some objectives within the questline may require the player to go to other locations in the game world.
  • The questline’s last quest might be exceptionally challenging and completing it successfully can need for a character with the right equipment.

In Skyrim, the Companions are a warrior group based in Whiterun, and the goal is to become their leader. Start by visiting Jorrvaskr, their headquarters in Whiterun, and meeting with Kodlak Whitemane, their leader, who will assign your first task.

Throughout the questline, you’ll complete various missions for the Companions, which involve battling bandits, fighting monsters, and other challenges. As you complete these tasks, you’ll learn new skills and abilities from other Companions.

To progress, prove your worth to the Companions by completing tasks and earning their trust. You’ll also uncover secrets and conspiracies within the group, leading to a final confrontation. Once you’ve proven yourself and completed the quest line, you’ll become the leader of the Companions.

18. The College of Winterhold

Skyrim: The College of Winterhold Quest
The College of Winterhold Quest [Image Captured by eXputer
Quest Location:

  • The College of Winterhold questline takes place in and around the city of Winterhold.

Quest Rewards:

  • Completion of the questline rewards the player with the title of Arch-Mage of the College of Winterhold.
  • The player also gains access to powerful spells and enchantments.
  • New dialogue options with members of the College of Winterhold are also unlocked.

Quest Length:

  • In total, there are eight quests which include Containment, Revealing The Unseen and The Eye of Magnus and five side quests which include J’zargo’s Experiment, Rejoining the College and Arniel’s Endeavor.
  • Depending on your skills and choice it can take 6 to 8 hours to complete.

Quest Difficulty:

  • The College of Winterhold questline in Skyrim can be challenging due to the complex magic system and the need to navigate through a variety of dangerous environments, including ruins and caves.
  • Additionally, the College of Winterhold questline requires a significant investment of time and effort, as it involves completing a long series of quests, some of which are quite difficult in order to fully explore the magic school and its secrets.

Your quest involves infiltrating the powerful College of Winterhold to become a master wizard. Here’s how it begins:

  1. Discover the College: Find the College of Winterhold, situated in the city of Winterhold.
  2. Prepare for Magic: Ensure your proficiency in magic, as you’ll be asked to cast a spell upon entering the college. You can purchase spells with gold if needed.
  3. Prove Your Worth: Demonstrate your magical prowess by completing minor quests assigned by various mages. Tasks range from finding books to cleansing magical focal points. These quests will help you learn new spells and abilities.
  4. Uncover Secrets: As you progress, you’ll unravel the college’s secrets and conspiracies. Your decisions will play a crucial role in the storyline.
  5. Final Test: To become a master wizard, you’ll need to pass a challenging final test, demonstrating your mastery of magic.

17. Black Book Quests

Skyrim Best Quests: The Black Book Quests
The Black Book Quests [Image by eXputer]
Quest Locations:

  • The Black Books are scattered throughout Skyrim’s Solstheim region which is added by the Dragonborn DLC.

Quest Rewards:

  • Each Black Book grants the player access to a unique “Black Book power” that can be used once per day.
  • The powers vary in usefulness and can range from summoning creatures to slowing time to teleporting.

Quest Length:

  • In total, there will be seven quests, such as The Hidden Twilight, The Sallow Regent, and Filament and Filgree and two main quests of Skyrim which are The Gardener of Men and At the Summit of Apocrypha.

Quest Difficulty:

  • The Black Book quests range in complexity, although they are typically seen of as being simpler than some of the other quests in the game.
  • The enemies encountered in the Black Book quests tend to be weaker than those in the game’s main quests.

Other aspects:

  • The Black Book quests are tied to the Daedric Prince Hermaeus Mora and his realm of Apocrypha.
  • The quests often involve elements of magic and otherworldly realms.
  • The Black Books are visually distinct from other items in the game and have a unique appearance.

The Black Book Quests are part of the Dragonborn sidequest in Skyrim’s Dragonborn DLC. To access them, you need the DLC. Here’s an overview:

  1. Finding Black Books: While exploring Solstheim, you’ll come across Black Books in various locations. Some are necessary for the Main Dragonborn Questline, while others are found in dungeons.
  2. Entering Apocrypha: Reading one of these Black Books transports you to the Daedric Realm of Apocrypha, ruled by the Daedric Prince Hermaeus Mora. Mora offers you the opportunity to navigate his treacherous realm in exchange for knowledge.
  3. Different Realms, Different Rewards: Each Black Book leads to a different area in Apocrypha, offering unique rewards. There are a total of seven quests, including “The Hidden Twilight,” “The Sallow Regent,” and “Filament and Filigree.” Among them are two main quests of Skyrim: “The Gardener of Men” and “At the Summit of Apocrypha.”

16. Innocence Lost

Skyrim: Innocence Lost Quest
The Innocence Lost Quest [Screenshot Grab: eXputer]
Quest Location:

  • The Innocence Lost quest is located in Windhelm city which is in the northeastern corner of Skyrim.

Quest Rewards:

  • The main reward for completing the Innocence Lost quest is access to the Dark Brotherhood questline.
  • You will receive Aretino Family Heirloom as a reward.
  • The quest also grants the player some gold and a leveled enchanted weapon as a reward for completing a side task.

Quest Length:

  • The Innocence Lost quest is comparatively short and can be completed in an hour.

Quest Difficulty:

  • The Innocence Lost quest is easy and is designed to be accessible to players of all skill levels.
  • The mission includes a few combat encounters, although they are not extremely challenging.

Quest Description:

  • The Innocence Lost quest involves investigating a murder that took place in Windhelm and uncovering a conspiracy involving the Dark Brotherhood.
  • The quest has multiple branching paths and choices that can affect the player’s experience in the Dark Brotherhood questline.
  • The quest is considered one of the most memorable and well-written quests in the game with a number of memorable characters and moments.

In Skyrim, the Dark Brotherhood can be introduced through the “Innocence Lost” quest. Here’s how it unfolds:

  1. Start of the Quest: The quest begins when you interact with Aventus Aretino. The trigger for this is when the innkeeper of the Sleeping Giant Inn in Riverwood hears a rumor about a child performing a black sacrament in Windhelm.
  2. Investigating Aventus Aretino: You’ll be sent to Windhelm to talk to Aventus Aretino to find out the truth behind the rumor. It initially seems like childish behavior, but Aventus mistakes you for a member of the Dark Brotherhood.
  3. Task from Aventus: Aventus will give you a task to assassinate Grelod The “Kind.” Complete this task, and then return to Aventus to inform him of the deed.
  4. Quest Conclusion: This concludes the quest, and you’ll receive the Aretino Family Heirloom as a reward for your actions. This quest serves as an introduction to the Dark Brotherhood storyline in Skyrim.

15. The Way of the Voice

Skyrim Best Quests: The Way of the Voice Quest
The Way of the Voice Quest [Screenshot Captured by eXputer]
The Way of the Voice quest in Skyrim starts in High Hrothgar, a monastery atop the Throat of the World mountain. Completing this quest provides several rewards, including the iconic shout Unrelenting Force and access to the Greybeards’ guidance and training in shout usage.

Key Details:

  • Quest Length: 2 to 3 hours
  • Quest Difficulty: Easy
  • Quest Description: Learn to use the Dragonborn’s shout abilities and understand the Thu’um. Impress the Greybeards by demonstrating your Unrelenting Force shout. You’ll meet Arngeir, who reveals there are three words in the shout: Force, Ro, and Wuuld. Master each word to progress and open the gate.

The Way of the Voice is a crucial part of Skyrim’s main storyline, introducing players to the game’s shout mechanic and the significance of the Greybeards.

14. The Forsworn Conspiracy

Skyrim: The Forsworn Conspiracy Quest
The Forsworn Conspiracy Quest [Image Credit Copyright: eXputer]
The Forsworn Conspiracy quest in Skyrim is located in the city of Markarth in the western region. Completing this quest opens up the Markarth storyline, offering additional quests, gold, and a leveled enchanted weapon as a reward for completing a side task.

Key Details:

  • Quest Length: Up to 5 hours
  • Quest Difficulty: Moderately difficult, with varying difficulty based on the player’s level, skill set, and playstyle.

Quest Description: The Forsworn Conspiracy involves investigating a conspiracy led by the Forsworn, rebels fighting against the Markarth government. The quest introduces memorable characters, including the enigmatic Madanach. It’s known for its complexity and multiple paths, allowing player choices to impact the experience.

The quest begins when you encounter Eltrys in Markarth, shortly after witnessing a murder upon entering the city. You’ll have two options when you witness an assassination attempt on Margret by Weylin. Your choice at this point can affect the quest’s progression and outcomes.

13. Hard Answers

Best Quests in Skyrim: Hard Answers Quest
The Hard Answers Quest [Image credit: eXputer]
The Hard Answers quest in Skyrim is given by Karliah in the Ragged Flagon in Riften. It involves visiting various locations across Skyrim, including the Twilight Sepulcher, the Snow Veil Sanctum, and the Riftweald Manor in Riften.

Key Details:

  • Quest Length: The duration varies depending on how quickly you navigate the different locations and solve puzzles. On average, it takes around an hour to complete.
  • Quest Difficulty: Moderately difficult, particularly for players unfamiliar with Markarth’s layout. It features puzzles that require careful observation and deduction, and combat elements, so having strong weapons and armor is recommended.

Quest Description: The quest revolves around uncovering a conspiracy involving Mercer Frey, the former leader of the Thieves Guild, and his involvement in stealing from the guild’s vault. You’ll work with Karliah to uncover the truth and prevent further damage to the guild’s reputation.

The quest begins with you obtaining Margret’s journal from Enthir and then seeking Calcelmo’s assistance in translating it. Afterward, you’ll navigate through the Dwemer Museum, using the Spider Control Rod to your advantage, and eventually reach Calcelmo’s laboratory. Inside, you’ll find the Dwemer Puzzle Cube and create a duplicate of the Falmer translating guide.

Depending on your earlier choices, you may encounter guards and Aicantar, Calcelmo’s nephew. Your approach can involve sneaking past or eliminating them.

12. A Night to Remember

Skyrim: A Night to Remember Quest
A Night to Remember Quest [Image Captured by us]
The A Night to Remember quest in Skyrim begins when you encounter Sam Guevenne, a drunken man, in any tavern or inn in the game. The quest takes you through various locations, including Markarth, Rorikstead, and Whiterun.

Key Details:

  • Quest Length: The duration depends on how quickly you navigate the different locations and complete objectives, typically taking 30 minutes to an hour on average.
  • Quest Difficulty: Relatively easy, involving straightforward tasks for the Daedric Prince Sanguine, with minimal combat.

Quest Description: The quest is known for its humorous and surreal elements, such as a drinking contest, a talking goat, and a giant chicken. Sam Guevenne challenges you to a drinking contest, and if you accept and lose, you wake up the next day with no memory of the previous night, and a quest to unravel the events. You must retrace your steps, talk to NPCs, and complete tasks to uncover what happened.

The final task leads you to The Temple of Dibella, where you must confront the consequences of your actions from the previous night. Depending on your choices, you’ll either make amends or face punishment. Sam Guevenne is revealed to be the Daedric Prince Sanguine, and as a reward, he gives you the Sanguine Rose staff.

11. Battle for Whiterun

Best Skyrim Quests: Battle for Whiterun Quest
The Battle for Whiterun Quest [Image Captured by eXputer]
The Battle for Whiterun quest in Skyrim occurs in and around the city of Whiterun, located in the central region of Skyrim. Its objective is to assist one of the factions in Skyrim’s civil war, either the Stormcloaks or the Imperial Legion, in capturing Whiterun.

Quest Rewards:

  • Siding with the Imperial Legion and capturing Whiterun:
    • Becoming the Thane of Whiterun
    • Obtaining the house “Breezehome” for 5,000 gold
    • Gaining a housecarl named Lydia as a follower
    • The ability to purchase land and build a homestead in Falkreath or Morthal
  • Siding with the Stormcloaks and capturing Whiterun:
    • Becoming the Stormblade
    • Receiving a unique weapon, the Stormblade, dealing extra damage to Imperials
    • The ability to ask guards to overlook minor crimes
    • Earning the title of Stormblade and the respect of Stormcloak soldiers

Quest Length: The quest can vary in length depending on how quickly you move through it. Rushing through the city and defeating the opposing faction’s leader can make it relatively quick. However, exploring the city and completing additional objectives can extend its duration.

Quest Difficulty: The quest’s difficulty varies based on the player’s level, equipment, and chosen difficulty setting. The large number of enemies and the need to defend or attack various objectives in the city can make it challenging.

Other Details:

  • The quest includes major battles throughout the city, such as an assault on the city walls and a final showdown in the city center.
  • The player’s actions during the quest can affect their standing with various factions in Skyrim, including the Jarls of various cities, the Thieves Guild, and the Dark Brotherhood.
  • The quest is available in both the vanilla version of Skyrim and the Special Edition with updated graphics and gameplay improvements.

If you side with the Stormcloaks, you’ll receive orders to join the Stormcloak army in attacking Whiterun. After leading the assault on the city gate, you’ll engage in a battle with Whiterun’s elite fighters within Dragonsreach. Upon victory, you’ll speak with the city’s leader, Balgruuf, and accept his surrender.

10. The House of Horrors

Skyrim: The House of Horrors Quest
The House of Horrors Quest [Image by eXputer]
The House of Horrors quest in Skyrim can be initiated by speaking to a Vigilant of Stendarr named Tyranus, who can be found in Markarth near the Abandoned House.

Quest Rewards: The main reward for completing the House of Horrors quest is the Mace of Molag Bal, a unique artifact. This powerful mace has the ability to absorb the stamina and magicka of its victims and has a chance to paralyze them.

Quest Length: The House of Horrors quest is relatively short and can be completed within 30 minutes to an hour, depending on how quickly the player progresses through it.

Quest Difficulty: The quest is considered easy and can be completed by players of any level. However, there are some enemies and challenges within the quest that may pose a challenge to low-level players, particularly the conjured creatures summoned by the Daedric Prince Molag Bal.

Quest Description: The House of Horrors quest involves investigating an abandoned mansion in Markarth that locals believe to be haunted. When the player first enters the house, they encounter Vigilant Tyranus, who is searching for signs of Daedric activity. To uncover the truth about the haunted house and the role of the Daedric Prince Molag Bal, the player will be led through a series of riddles and conflicts.

As the quest progresses, the player will ultimately face the choice of whether to accept Molag Bal’s offer and complete his task or defy the Daedric Prince. This choice will determine the quest’s outcome and the player’s reward.

9. Hail Sithis!

Skyrim Best Quests: Hail Sithis!
The Hail Sithis! Quest [Screenshot Grab: eXputer]
The Hail Sithis! quest in Skyrim can be initiated by speaking to Nazir in the Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary after completing the questline’s previous quest, “Breaching Security.”

Quest Rewards:

  • A new location to use as a base for the Dark Brotherhood.
  • The ability to repeat the quest for additional gold rewards.

Quest Length: The Hail Sithis! quest can typically be completed in around an hour, depending on how quickly the player progresses through it.

Quest Difficulty: The quest is not particularly difficult, but there are some enemies that can pose a challenge to low-level players, particularly the Draugr and Dremora that appear in the dungeon.

Quest Description: The Hail Sithis! quest involves traveling to a new location called the Night Mother’s Crypt, which serves as a base for the Dark Brotherhood. The player will be tasked with exploring the crypt and completing several objectives, including retrieving the Blade of Woe and killing the undead Draugr that infest the crypt.

Additionally, during the quest, you will have the opportunity to decide whether to spare or kill a character named Amaund Motierre, who plays a role in the Dark Brotherhood’s contract to assassinate Emperor Titus Mede II. Your choices in this quest can have consequences and affect the outcome of the Dark Brotherhood storyline.

8. Blood on the Ice

Skyrim: Blood on the Ice Quest
The Blood on the Ice Quest [Screenshot Captured by eXputer]
The “Blood on the Ice” quest in Skyrim is a fascinating and complex side quest that takes place in the city of Windhelm. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the quest:

Quest Location: The “Blood on the Ice” quest can be initiated by entering the city of Windhelm and heading to the graveyard at night. The quest will begin automatically if the player has not already completed it.

Quest Rewards:

  • The ability to purchase the house Hjerim in Windhelm.
  • The Windy Edge unique enchantment for weapons.

Quest Length: The “Blood on the Ice” quest is a relatively long quest and can take 3 to 4 hours to complete, depending on how thoroughly the player explores and investigates.

Quest Difficulty: The quest can be challenging due to its multiple twists and turns in the storyline. Additionally, there are some difficult enemies, such as necromancers and draugr, that can pose a challenge to low-level players.

Quest Description: The “Blood on the Ice” quest revolves around investigating a series of gruesome killings that have occurred in Windhelm. As the player, you will be tasked with identifying the murderer by investigating crime scenes, questioning witnesses, and assembling evidence.

The quest takes unexpected turns, revealing that the killer is a skilled necromancer. In the end, you will confront this necromancer and put a stop to their reign of terror.

Overall, the “Blood on the Ice” quest is known for its intricate storyline and detective work, making it one of the more engaging and memorable side quests in Skyrim.

7. Forgotten Names

Best Skyrim Quests: Forgotten Names
The Forgotten Names Quest [Image Credit Copyright: eXputer]
The Forgotten Names quest in Skyrim takes place beneath the College of Winterhold, specifically in The Midden Dark. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the quest:

Quest Location: The Forgotten Names quest takes place beneath the College of Winterhold, in The Midden Dark. Players will find a circular room with a gauntlet-like statue at its center.

Quest Rewards: Completing the quest can reward the player with either a Daedra Heart or Velehk Sain’s Treasure Map, along with other items like two Scimitars, Hammerfell Garb, and Redguard Boots.

Quest Length: The Forgotten Names quest is relatively short and can be completed in about 30 minutes, depending on how quickly the player navigates the dungeon.

Quest Difficulty: The quest is not particularly difficult, as it involves exploring a dungeon, solving some puzzles, and defeating several draugr enemies.

Quest Description: The Forgotten Names quest involves exploring the ruins of Folgunthur and uncovering the mystery behind the disappearance of the Three Heroes who once quested to slay a powerful dragon priest.

To initiate the quest, you will need to visit The Midden Dark beneath the College of Winterhold and investigate a circular room with a gauntlet-like statue at its center. There, you will find an incident report and a key that describes a failed summoning ritual, along with four rings.

Your objective will be to collect the four ornamental rings, which are named Katarina’s Ring, Treoy’s Ring, Balwen’s Ring, and Pithi’s Ring. These rings can be found in a chest in the Arcanaeum. You can either use the key provided or pick the lock to obtain them.

Once you have all four rings, return to The Midden Dark and place them on the gauntlet in the following order:

  • Pithi’s Ring on the Little Finger
  • Balwen’s Ring on the Ring Finger
  • Treoy’s Ring on the Middle Finger
  • Katarina’s Ring on the Index Finger

Doing so will summon Velehk Sain, a Dremora pirate. He will offer you a deal: either release him or kill him. If you release him, he will give you a treasure map that leads to hidden pirate treasure. If you choose to kill him, you can loot his corpse for various items.

It’s up to you whether to release or kill Velehk Sain, and the choice will determine your reward for completing the quest.

6. Forbidden Legend

Skyrim: Forbidden Legend Quest
The Forbidden Legend Quest [Image credit: eXputer]
Quest Location:

Initiate the Forbidden Legend quest by reading “Lost Legends,” available in various Skyrim locations, like bookstores and libraries.

Quest Rewards:

Receive the unique “Gauldur Blackblade” weapon. Gain the Gauldur Amulet artifact for health, magicka, and stamina boosts. Access the Dragonrend shout Word Wall.

Quest Length:

Expect 2 to 3 hours to complete the Forbidden Legend quest, depending on your playstyle.

Quest Difficulty:

Moderately difficult; involves dungeon navigation, puzzles, and defeating enemies, including draugr, mages, and a dragon priest.

Quest Description:

Navigate puzzles, defeat mages, and confront Jyrik Gauldurson, a powerful draugr. Collect Gauldur Amulet pieces and defeat the Gauldur brothers. Earn the unique Gauldur Blackblade weapon.

Starting the Quest:

Begin in Riverwood, find the “Forbidden Legend” book, and read it or speak to the Sleeping Giant Inn owner to start the quest.

Objective:

Find the Gauldur Amulet by journeying to Folgunthur, southeast of Solitude. Fight enemies and solve puzzles in the ruin to reach Archmage Gauldur’s tomb. Retrieve the Gauldur Amulet and return to the inn owner.

Finding the Amulets:

Locate Gauldur Blackblade in Saarthal. Discover Gauldur Blackbow in Geirmund’s Hall. Travel to each location, facing challenges similar to the Gauldur Amulet’s retrieval.

Summoning the Bosses:

Visit Archmage Gauldur’s tomb and place the amulets on three plates. Confront three bosses sequentially:

  1. Draugr-summoning boss.
  2. Arrow-shooting boss with clones.
  3. Ice-creature-summoning boss using magic.

Completing the Quest:

Defeat all bosses to obtain an amulet boosting health, magicka, and stamina by 30 points. Find a locked chest at the pool’s bottom. Prepare adequately before facing these challenging enemies.

5. Waking Nightmare

Best Skyrim Quests: Waking Nightmare Quest
The Waking Nightmare Quest [Image Captured by us]
Quest Location:

Start the Walking Nightmare quest by talking to Erandur at the Windpeak Inn in Dawnstar.

Quest Rewards:

Obtain the Skull of Corruption, a unique staff dealing significant damage and creating target clones, along with gold.

Quest Length:

The Walking Nightmare quest is moderately long, taking around 1-2 hours to complete.

Quest Difficulty:

This quest is challenging, involving a maze-like dungeon with enemies, traps, puzzles, and a formidable end-boss.

Quest Description:

Help Erandur, a former member of Daedric Prince Vaermina’s cult, halt a nightmare plague afflicting Dawnstar’s residents. Locate the plague source and defeat the powerful Nightmare while facing waves of enemies.

Starting the Quest:

Visit Dawnstar and speak to Erandur at Windpeak Inn. Follow Erandur to Nightcaller Temple, facing deadly spiders on the way.

Progressing Through the Temple:

Inside the temple, encounter waking orcs and mages, defeating them. Find a mysterious book that Erandur can interpret. Drink a potion to experience another person’s memory, leading you to a dream-like state. Awake on the other side of a previously impassable barrier.

Reaching the Skull:

Advance toward the skull while encountering Erandur’s friends. Eliminate them before Erandur attempts to destroy the skull through a ritual.

Choose Your Path:

Option 1: Let Erandur complete the ritual, allowing him to become your companion, but note that it won’t count as one of the 15 Deadric Artifacts for the Oblivion Walker trophy. Option 2: Kill Erandur and take the skull for the Oblivion Walker Trophy, ending the quest.

Enjoy one of Skyrim’s best quests.

4. Kyne’s Sacred Trials

Skyrim: Kyne’s Sacred Trials Quest
The Kyne’s Sacred Trials Quest [Image Captured by eXputer]
Quest Location:

Initiate Kyne’s Sacred Trials quest by speaking to Froki Whetted-Blade at his cabin south of Ivarstead.

Quest Rewards:

Gain the ability to summon Kyne’s Sacred Trials for hunting challenges. Receive Froki’s Bow, a unique weapon dealing extra damage to animals and creatures. Earn the title “Huntsman” or “Huntress.”

Quest Length:

Complete Kyne’s Sacred Trials in about 45 minutes.

Quest Difficulty:

Moderately difficult quest involving hunting and defeating animals, including a legendary beast at the end.

Quest Description:

Help Froki Whetted-Blade complete sacred trials to prove your hunting skills and gain Kyne’s favor, the goddess of the hunt. Hunt and defeat various animals and creatures, including a cave bear, saber cat, wolf pack, and the legendary Guardian of the Vale.

Completing the Quest:

Talk to Froki at Froki’s Shack and accept the quest. Hunt down and defeat the guardian Mud crab, Wolf, and Skeever, indicated on the map. Return to Froki and report your kills. Receive a new task: Hunt the guardian Mammoth, Sabre, and Bear, tougher foes. Report your kills to Froki. Your final task is to hunt the Guardian Troll at Graywinter Watch, accompanied by other trolls. Successfully complete all trials to complete the quest.

Kyne’s Sacred Trials is among the top quests in Skyrim, offering unique hunting challenges and rewards.

3. The Mind Of Madness

Skyrim Best Quests: The Mind Of Madness Quest
The Mind Of Madness Quest [Image by eXputer]
Quest Location:

Begin the Mind of Madness quest by talking to Dervenin, a peculiar man wandering the streets of Solitude.

Quest Rewards:

Acquire the Wabbajack, a unique staff with unpredictable effects on targets. Earn the title “Champion of Sheogorath.” Receive a leveled amount of gold.

Quest Length:

Complete the Mind of Madness quest in approximately 1 to 2 hours.

Quest Difficulty:

This quest is challenging, involving puzzle-solving, navigating a surreal world, and defeating various enemies.

Quest Description:

Assist the Daedric Prince Sheogorath in entering the mind of Pelagius Septim III, the mad emperor of Tamriel, and curing him of his insanity. Navigate a bizarre and surreal world filled with puzzles, illusions, and strange characters. Deal with the embodiments of Pelagius’ fears and anxieties while on this unique quest.

Starting the Quest:

In Solitude, a servant seeks your help to rescue his master, who is trapped in an abandoned corridor of the Blue Palace. Retrieve the key from Falk if you completed the Wolfskull Cave quest; otherwise, ask a maid for the key by mentioning Falk. Proceed to the second floor to enter Pelagius’ mind.

Completing the Quest:

Speak with Sheogorath to receive the Wabbajack and three tasks. First Task: Paranoia – Turn figures into wolves by firing the Wabbajack at them while they sit next to a man. Second Task: Anger – Make a figure big and an attacker small by shooting the Wabbajack at the figure twice.

Third Task: Night Terrors – Wake up Pelagius by shooting the Wabbajack at him, then deal with creatures that appear, but avoid harming Sultry Maiden or young Pelagius. After experiencing a series of scenes, return to the Blue Palace with the Wabbajack to end the quest.

The Mind of Madness is one of Skyrim’s top three quests, offering a unique and surreal adventure with the enigmatic Sheogorath.

2. The Cursed Tribe

Skyrim: The Cursed Tribe Quest
The Cursed Tribe Quest [Screenshot Grab: eXputer
Quest Location:

Start the Cursed Tribe quest by speaking to Atub, an orc, at the orc stronghold of Largashbur in the Rift region of Skyrim.

Quest Rewards:

Receive Volendrung, a unique warhammer with stamina-draining and health-absorbing abilities. Gain access to Largashbur as a player home.

Quest Length:

Complete the Cursed Tribe quest in approximately 1-2 hours.

Quest Difficulty:

This quest is moderately difficult, involving battles against strong enemies, including a giant, a troll, and a powerful orc warlord.

Quest Description:

The “Cursed Tribe” quest revolves around assisting the orc tribe of Largashbur in lifting a curse that afflicts them. Summon the Daedric Prince Malacath to help remove the curse and retrieve the Volendrung artifact from a dwarven ruin. Aid the orcs in battling their enemies and confront Chief Yamarz, who has betrayed the tribe.

Starting the Quest:

Head to Largashbur, located south of Riften, and speak with Atub. Learn about the ongoing giant attacks and the sickness affecting the orc leader. Obtain Troll Fat and a Daedra Heart to proceed.

Dealing with the Giant:

Travel with the orc leader to confront the giant northeast of Riften. Choose between letting the leader handle the giant himself or accepting a bribe.

Fighting the Giant:

Regardless of your choice, you will need to battle the giant.

Completing the Quest:

Speak to Malacath and Atub, who will instruct you to place the mace on an altar. The mace transforms into Volendrung, and you can take it from the altar.

The Cursed Tribe is a Daedric quest requiring a minimum level of nine and offers the powerful Volendrung warhammer as its reward.

1. To Kill An Empire

Best Quest in Skyrim: To Kill An Empire
To Kill An Empire Quest [Screenshot Captured by eXputer]
Quest Location:

The “To Kill an Empire” quest is part of the Dark Brotherhood questline and primarily occurs in Solitude, Haafingar province.

Quest Rewards:

Completion grants a substantial amount of gold and the Emperor’s Robes, a unique item with high value that can be used or sold.

Quest Length:

On average, this quest takes around 30 minutes to an hour to complete.

Quest Difficulty:

The difficulty of the quest varies based on your level and equipment. Involves infiltrating a heavily guarded area, posing a challenge for lower-level characters or those lacking strong stealth abilities. Several optional objectives within the quest can add complexity and difficulty.

Quest Description:

The objective is to assassinate the Emperor of Tamriel, Titus Mede II. Stages include gathering information about the Emperor’s whereabouts, infiltrating his ship, and carrying out the assassination. The quest has significant repercussions for the Dark Brotherhood and Skyrim’s political landscape.

Starting the Quest:

Receive the quest from Astrid in the Dark Brotherhood Sanctuary after completing the “Recipe for Disaster” quest.

Completing the Quest:

Plan to infiltrate the Emperor’s Tower in Solitude by posing as The Gourmet. Report to Commander Maro in Solitude and use the Writ of Passage to enter the Emperor’s Tower. Assist Chef Gianna in preparing Potage le Magnifique with a poisoned ingredient. Watch Emperor Titus Mede II succumb to the poisoned meal. Be attacked by Penitus Oculatus agents, revealing a betrayal and initiating a battle. Survive and make your way back to the Sanctuary near Falkreath while fending off more of Maro’s men.

“To Kill an Empire” is considered one of the best quests in Skyrim and holds significant narrative and gameplay impact within the Dark Brotherhood questline.

Final Words

All in all, these are the best quests in Skyrim that will challenge your skills and provide you with great rewards. Moreover, apart from the skills and rewards, you will also be able to dive deeper into the lore of Skyrim. And that will eventually open doors for curiosity and answers.

Moreover, if you are not aware, the 2023 VR Mods of Skyrim and Best Skyrim PC Mods In 2023 have changed the game. Not only that, but if you get your hands on the Nightingale Armor along with the Best One-Handed Weapon, you will be able to complete most of these quests with ease.

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Hammad Ijaz


Hammad Ijaz is a Guides Writer on eXputer who is into all sorts of gaming genres. He has this pure passion for enjoying games to the fullest and then reflecting that passion back into his writing. Along with a gaming experience of 10+ years, he has many years of writing experience as well. Hammad further solidifies his status as a true gamer by showcasing 200+ hours of game time on Warframe, Witcher 3, and Elden Ring. Feel free to explore his extensive gaming library on Steam. Experience: 3+ Years || Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism || Published 150+ Guides 

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