Five Beautifully Haunted Destinations to Explore This Fall
Your travel guide to tricks and treats around the world
Happy Halloweennnnn! Looking for a spooky trip this fall? Of course you are. What better way to embrace the season than with an adventure through some of the world’s most haunted cities?
Now, now — before you start searching for something a little less seasonally spicy, let us put your mind at ease. We’re not here to suggest reenacting scenes from The Shining or daring you to stay overnight in a haunted manor. Instead, we’re talking about the kind of balanced itinerary filled with equal parts tricks and treats.
Here are five beautiful destinations around the world that just so happen to be incredibly haunted — and therefore perfect for a memorable fall escape.
Edinburgh, Scotland
Every city has its share of dark secrets, but few can match the macabre history of Edinburgh. Widely regarded as one of the most haunted cities in the world, visiting feels like stepping into a gothic fairytale that’s roughly two parts charming, one part chilling! It’s fascinating to explore any time of year, but autumn really steals the show, with colorful leaves casting rich contrasts against the city’s gothic architecture, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old cemeteries.
Visit Edinburgh Castle and Explore the Edinburgh Vaults Beneath Old Town
Edinburgh Castle overlooking a cemetery in late autumn
No visit to Edinburgh is complete without a daytime tour of Edinburgh Castle, followed by a descent into the eerie 18th-century vaults beneath the Old Town after dark. Expect fascinating tales of historic horrors — gruesome murders, public executions, and relentless witch hunts. If you’re feeling especially brave, wander through Greyfriars Kirkyard at night, where the ghost of 'Bloody' George Mackenzie is said to roam.
Be sure to balance out the dark history with cozy bakeries, unique shops dotting the Royal Mile, and historic pubs filled with traditional Scottish fare, live folk music, and friendly locals — a warm reminder that the city is very much alive and well.
The Best Spirit in Edinburgh: Make ye way to the Black Cat pub and order ye a fine Scotch, lass. Ye’d be daft to leave Scotland without a wee taste to warm yer bones!
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Salem, Massachusetts, USA
Salem — the name alone stirs up visions of witches, spells, and a whole lot of supernatural intrigue. Famous for the 1692 witch trials, this small New England town fully embraces its haunted history, making it a true Halloween haven in the fall.
If you plan to visit Salem in the autumn, be sure to plan ahead and buy any tickets you can in advance. Of course, there's more to Salem than just witches, ghosts, and being overrun in October by tourists — the city is also home to excellent seafood, beautiful beaches, and a thriving arts community.
Discover the Dark History of the Salem Witch Trials
17th century tombstones in Salem, Massachusetts
No visit to Salem is complete without a trip to the Salem Witch Museum for an eerie exploration into the infamous with trials. While not haunted, it’s unsettling enough to make you question what you’d have done back in 1692. Then, make your way to The Witch House, the only remaining structure with direct ties to the trials, giving an intimate look into the Puritan lifestyle. Cap off your evening with a classic candle-lit ghost tour winding through eerie spots, from the Old Burying Point to the haunted alleys of Salem.
The Best Spirit in Salem: Ask the bartender at Turner’s Seafood to conjure up a spirited seasonal potion. This place is built on the very land of Bridget Bishop’s orchard — one of the first women hanged in the 1692 witch trials. Some say she’s still around, waiting for her drink order to be filled…
Prague, Czech Republic
Prague may be one of Europe’s prettiest cities, but with its turbulent past and gothic architecture, it’s also one of the most haunted. From the medieval charm of Old Town to dark, winding alleyways and the imposing Prague Castle, this city has a ghostly tale on nearly every corner.
Old Town Square and Charles Bridge are prime spots for eerie encounters, with stories of haunted statues, spectral monks, and tragic figures said to wander the streets. If you’re looking for more storytelling than self-guided exploration allows, sign yourself up for an evening ghost tour of Old Town. And if you're feeling brave, head below ground to explore dungeons where medieval prisoners and torture sites add a touch of real horror.
Visit Sedlec Ossuary for a Bone-Chilling Chapel Experience
Skulls and bones decorate Sedlec Ossuary, a chapel in the Czech Republic outside of Prague
About an hour outside Prague lies Sedlec Ossuary, a chapel that dates back to the 13th century that’s both haunting and awe-inspiring, adorned with the remains of over 40,000 souls. A visit here is a must for anyone fascinated by history and certainly anyone intrigued by the macabre. Wrap up your visit with a pint and hearty Czech fare at a nearby pub — the best way to chase off any lingering chills.
The Best Spirit in Prague: Want something significantly stronger than a Pilsner? Order an absinthe at Hemingway Bar and toast to Prague’s haunting legends.
Sighișoara & Bran Castle, Romania
Romania — a land of rolling hills, dramatic castles, and a history steeped in blood, betrayal, and a good dose of supernatural flair. At the heart of this enchanting realm lies Sighișoara, the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, who inspired the legendary Count Dracula. Built in the 12th century by Saxon settlers, the town center is a UNESCO World Heritage site that is fascinating to explore on foot.
Climb the Clock Tower for breathtaking views, then wander through the medieval cobblestone streets to visit the Vlad Dracul House, where Vlad was born. Pop into the nearby Church on the Hill, where the air is thick with history and perhaps a few lingering spirits from centuries past.
Explore Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania
Bran Castle, nicknamed Dracula’s Castle, in Romania
No trip to this part of Romania would be complete without a visit to Bran Castle, often dubbed “Dracula’s Castle.” While the link to Vlad is more folklore than fact, the castle's dramatic towers and imposing walls are enough to send your imagination into overdrive. Explore the labyrinth of corridors and dungeons, and imagine what life was like for Vlad himself — the ruler whose fierce reputation inspired countless tales of horror. Afterward, settle into a cozy local tavern for a hearty Romanian meal, sharing tales of the night's mysteries over traditional sarmale — cabbage rolls stuffed with seasoned pork and rice.
The Best Spirit in Romania: Sip a strong tuica (a fruit brandy) at Casa Vlad Dracul. More than a shot — it’s a toast to Transylvania’s many mysteries!
New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
New Orleans has long been a cultural crossroads, blending French, Spanish, African, and Creole influences, which have shaped its rich folklore and spiritual traditions. From the lively streets of the French Quarter to its unique architectural charm, this city enchants and unnerves in equal measure.
Haunted Hotspots in New Orleans
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is considered the most haunted cemetery in the United States
Start your adventure at the infamous LaLaurie Mansion, where Madame Delphine LaLaurie left a chilling legacy. Then, explore St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, where Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau and countless souls rest in the above-ground tombes that give the city its eerie allure. Join a haunted walking tour to uncover ghostly tales and Voodoo legends woven through the French Quarter.
While you’re there, get to know many dishes of gumbo, jambalaya, po'boys, crawfish étouffées… (we could go on and on) and of course finish with a beignet and café au lait at Café du Monde. Catch live jazz on Frenchman Street, and for a thrill of a different kind, consider a swamp tour to glide through the bayou and catch glimpses of lurking alligators.
The Best Spirit in New Orleans: Enjoy a classic Sazerac, because no trip to the Big Easy is complete without it! Invented in NOLA, this cocktail will raise more than your spirits — especially as the ghosts of the French Quarter come out to play after dark.
Which haunted destination will you explore?
As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, there’s no better time to embark on an adventure to these beautifully haunted destinations. From ghostly encounters to rich histories, these cities offer the perfect blend of spookiness and charm for your fall travels. So grab your favorite ghost-hunting attire and get ready for a trip filled with chills, thrills, and unforgettable memories!
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