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What Level Should I Port to Dalaran? Your Ultimate Guide

The crystalline spires of Dalaran, the floating city of magic, have long beckoned adventurers. But when exactly should you take the plunge and port to this iconic hub? The answer depends on which Dalaran you’re talking about, as there are two distinct versions: Dalaran in Northrend (Wrath of the Lich King) and Dalaran above the Broken Isles (Legion).

For Dalaran in Northrend, you should ideally port there starting at level 74. This is because most of the quests in the Icecrown zone, which is adjacent to Dalaran, are designed for players in the 74-80 level range. While you can technically reach Dalaran at lower levels (via summons or specific quests), you won’t be able to meaningfully engage with the content there until you reach level 74.

For Dalaran above the Broken Isles, you should port there immediately after receiving the quest “The Legion Returns” around level 98. This quest is part of the introductory sequence for the Legion expansion and directly guides you to Dalaran. Attempting to get there before this quest is possible but significantly more complicated and unnecessary.

Dalaran (Northrend) – Wrath of the Lich King Era

Why Level 74 is the Sweet Spot

Level 74 allows you to maximize your experience gain in Icecrown and access essential amenities in Dalaran. Here’s why:

Icecrown Quests: Most Icecrown quests are designed for players in the 74-80 range. Starting earlier will make combat significantly more challenging.
Dalaran Services: Dalaran provides access to profession trainers, auction houses, banks, and other essential services that will greatly aid your leveling journey. These services become much more valuable once you’re actively engaging in Icecrown content.
Argent Tournament: While the Argent Tournament is accessible at lower levels, participating effectively requires a higher level character.

How to Get to Dalaran (Northrend)

There are several ways to reach Dalaran in Northrend:

Mage Portal: The most straightforward method is to have a Mage cast a portal to Dalaran. This is usually the quickest and easiest option.
Quest Line: Completing the initial quests in Dragonblight or Borean Tundra will eventually lead you to a quest that directs you to Dalaran.
Summons: Players can summon others to Dalaran using a Warlock summoning stone.
Direct Flight: While less common, you can fly to Dalaran from a nearby location if you have flying unlocked and the necessary flight skills.

What to Do Upon Arrival

Once you arrive in Dalaran, prioritize the following:

Set Your Hearthstone: Dalaran should become your primary hub.
Learn Your Professions: Visit profession trainers to learn new recipes and improve your skills.
Explore the City: Familiarize yourself with the layout of Dalaran, including the location of the bank, auction house, and other important vendors.
Start Icecrown Quests: Head south to Icecrown and begin tackling the available quests.

Dalaran (Broken Isles) – Legion Era

The Legion Returns Quest: Your Ticket to Dalaran

The Legion expansion’s introductory quest, “The Legion Returns,” is your definitive signal to head to Dalaran. This quest is given around level 98 and directly guides you there.

Why Level 98 (or Close to It) is Essential

Attempting to reach the Broken Isles Dalaran before level 98, outside of very niche circumstances, offers no real benefit and can be incredibly difficult to accomplish. The entire expansion is designed around characters in the level 98-110 range.

How to Get to Dalaran (Broken Isles)

Follow the Questline: The simplest method is to simply follow the questline. “The Legion Returns” will prompt you to report to your faction leader, who will then send you to Dalaran via a cinematic.
Mage Portal (After Unlocking): Once you’ve completed the introductory quests in Dalaran, Mages can learn to create portals directly to the city.

Initial Steps in the Broken Isles Dalaran

Follow the Main Quest: The initial quests in Dalaran will guide you through the core features of the Legion expansion, including your Class Hall.
Choose Your Artifact Weapon: This is a crucial decision that will significantly impact your character’s gameplay.
Explore Dalaran: The Broken Isles Dalaran is significantly different from the Northrend version, so take some time to explore and familiarize yourself with the layout.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Here are 15 frequently asked questions to further clarify when and how to port to Dalaran:

1. Can I port to Northrend Dalaran at level 60?

Technically yes, you can be summoned or have a Mage port you. However, you won’t be able to do much there since the content is designed for level 74 and above. It’s not recommended unless you’re just looking to explore the city.

2. Is it possible to reach the Broken Isles Dalaran before “The Legion Returns” quest?

While technically possible using glitches or exploits, it’s strongly discouraged. It’s incredibly difficult and offers no legitimate gameplay advantages.

3. What are the benefits of being in Dalaran?

Dalaran serves as a central hub, providing access to profession trainers, auction houses, banks, and portals to various locations. It’s also the starting point for many quests and storylines.

4. What are the differences between Northrend and Broken Isles Dalaran?

Besides the obvious location difference, the Broken Isles Dalaran has a unique layout, new NPCs, and content specifically tied to the Legion expansion.

5. How do I learn to teleport to Dalaran as a Mage?

For Northrend Dalaran, you must be a high enough level (around 74) and purchase the spell from a portal trainer in a major city or Dalaran itself. For the Broken Isles version, you will need to complete a quest chain within Dalaran after arriving there during the Legion expansion.

6. What happens if I try to do Icecrown quests at level 70?

The quests will be much more difficult, and you’ll gain experience at a slower rate. It’s best to wait until level 74 to maximize your efficiency.

7. What should I do if I accidentally arrive in Dalaran too early?

If you’re in Northrend Dalaran, you can take a portal back to a major city or use your hearthstone. If you are somehow in the Broken Isles Dalaran before “The Legion Returns,” just continue to level in Draenor, until you receive the appropriate quest.

8. Are there any level restrictions on using the Dalaran hearthstone?

No, once you acquire the Dalaran hearthstone, you can use it at any level. However, you won’t be able to benefit from most of Dalaran’s features until you reach the appropriate level range.

9. What are the best professions to level in Dalaran?

All professions are viable in Dalaran. The best choice depends on your class and playstyle. Popular options include Enchanting, Jewelcrafting, and Inscription.

10. Where can I find profession trainers in Dalaran?

Profession trainers are located throughout Dalaran. Consult the city map for their exact locations.

11. Is it worth crafting gear in Dalaran?

In the Northrend version, yes. Crafted gear can be valuable for equipping your character and selling on the auction house. In the Broken Isles version, crafting revolves more around Legion-specific materials and recipes, playing a key role in progressing through the expansion content.

12. Can I use Dalaran as a central hub for leveling in other zones?

Yes, both versions of Dalaran offer portals to various locations, making them convenient hubs for traveling to different zones.

13. What are the best ways to make gold in Dalaran?

Common methods include selling crafted items, completing daily quests, and utilizing the auction house.

14. What should I do after reaching level 80 in Northrend?

You can continue questing in Icecrown, run dungeons, or prepare for raids.

15. What should I do after completing the Legion content in the Broken Isles?

You can move on to the subsequent expansion, Battle for Azeroth, or continue exploring and completing optional content in the Broken Isles.

By understanding the appropriate levels and benefits of porting to Dalaran, you can optimize your leveling experience and enjoy all that these magical cities have to offer. Happy adventuring!

What level should I port to Dalaran?