If you just finished binge-watching your favorite horror series and want to learn about the most haunted places in the world, you’ve come to the right place.
And if you’re just hoping to add some excitement to your upcoming travel plans, you’ve also come to the right place. I’ve spent years exploring the most haunted places in the world, and I’m excited to finally share my spooky secrets.
Most haunted places in the world
Regardless of travel trends, these destinations are the best places to visit for spooky travel.
1. Isla de las Munecas, Mexico
Translating to “Island of the Dolls,” this island is filled with dolls hanging from the trees, placed by the former owner. Legend claims the man hung these dolls to appease the spirit of a girl who drowned in the nearby canal, and tourists have been said to hear the dolls whispering to one another.
2. Estes Park, Longmont, Colorado: Here’s Johnny!
Yep, you’re here because of the Stanley Hotel, the setting of The Shining, and some of the most iconic horror movie moments in history.
The most haunted places in Europe
With such a rich lore of epic battles, towering castles, and famous figures, it’s no wonder Europe is packed with haunted history.
3. Cluj-Napoca, Romania: Dracula’s Castle and the world’s most haunted forest
Whether it’s a tour of Dracula’s Castle or a trek through the haunted forest of Hoia Baciu, this is the ultimate destination for vampire enthusiasts.
4. Prague, Czech Republic: Gateway to hell
In case you hadn’t already guessed, the Gateway to Hell remains one of the scariest places to visit in the world and was not a pleasant place for criminals, who were tortured here for centuries at Houska Castle.
5. Palermo, Sicily, Italy: A city of tortured history
If you’re brave enough to stay at Casa al Teatro Massimo, watch out for the resident ghost, who makes cameos at the nearby theater.
6. Paris, France: Into the catacombs
Book a room at Hotel du Midi and you’ll be right on top of the Paris Catacombs, one of the top attractions in Paris, which hold the remains of over 6 million people. Afterward, head to Notre Dame and keep your eyes trained on the Rose Window, where ghosts wander back and forth.
7. Dublin, Ireland: Ireland’s oldest pub
While you’re touring the hundreds of pubs lining the streets of Dublin, be sure to stop in at The Brazen Head, Ireland’s oldest pub, where you might catch a glimpse of a local ghost. After you’ve had your fill of traditional Irish food, spend the night at Shelbourne Hotel, Dublin’s most haunted hotel. You might see the ghost of Mary Masters wandering the sixth floor, where she died as a child of cholera.
8. La Paz, Bolivia: The unofficial capital of witches
Have you ever wanted to go shopping at a Witches’ Market? Visit El Mercado de las Brujas in La Paz, where you can browse potions and spells. Once you’ve stocked up on magical protection, maybe you’ll feel brave enough to spend a night in La Casona Hotel Boutique.
9. Buenos Aires, Argentina: Haunted houses? How about a haunted city?
You don’t have to go far to get a spooky feeling in Buenos Aires. Just take a ride on the public transit system, where former builders who died in its construction are said to roam the subway. Ride the train to Torre del Fantasma, where a young artist was reportedly pushed to her death by goblins.
10. Tokyo, Japan: What could be scarier than Godzilla?
Tokyo might be the home of the King of the Monsters, but did you know it’s also filled with haunted history? As for its spookiest spot, that would have to be Sunshine 60 Tower, which is built on the former Sugamo Prison and was the execution spot for World War II war criminals.
11. Route 375 Nevada: The most haunted road in America
Route 375, Rachel, Nevada Better known as the Extra-terrestrial Highway, runs through this desert city, which also happens to be the home of Area 51. This world-famous epicentre of secrecy is a draw for anyone looking to spot some UFOs, aliens, or maybe even the Ark of the Covenant.
How does KAYAK know what to put in the guide?
In all of my travel adventures, I have learned so much that I was able to pass on my experience to you. I consulted with local sources, personal reviews, and expert perspectives – all of which helped me to create this guide. You can trust it, just as you would trust a local resident when you ask for recommendations around town.
Conclusion
This is only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to spooky sights and terrifying tourism. Be sure to use KAYAK for any of your future travel plans, from unique hotels to UFO chasing around the globe. Until next time, happy haunting.