30 Most Haunted Places in the World

Get ready for a spine-chilling adventure with our comprehensive guide to the world's most haunted places

Haunted houses can sometimes seem cheesy, with actors dressed up as ghouls, goblins, and mad scientists. However, there are several places around the world with reputations for being genuinely haunted. Some of these sites are steeped in mystery, with legends passed down for centuries. Others are newer, but still carry tragic pasts. Regardless of their age, each location has a fascinating history, with plenty of ghost sightings and spine-chilling experiences.

Ghost hunters from around the globe are always looking to catch a glimpse of spirits wandering haunted hallways, hear mysterious voices in empty rooms, or feel a chill while exploring dark corridors. Fortunately, many reportedly haunted places offer public tours or even overnight stays.

No matter where you are in the world, there is likely a haunted house, hotel, or old historical site waiting for you to visit. From the Winchester Mystery House in California to Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, there are plenty of spine-tingling destinations in the United States alone. Additionally, eerie locations exist beyond American borders in countries such as the United Kingdom, France, Germany, Romania, Australia, and China.

Some of these famous places have seen reports of ghosts, strange sounds and lights, and even UFO sightings

1. Raynham Hall, Norfolk, England

Raynham Hall, located in Norfolk, England, is a grand Georgian mansion that has a long and intriguing history. The most famous story associated with the hall is that of the Brown Lady, a ghostly apparition said to haunt the building. According to legend, the Brown Lady is the spirit of Lady Dorothy Walpole, who died in the house in 1726 after being locked away by her jealous husband. Over the years, many visitors to the hall have claimed to have seen her ghostly figure, often dressed in a brown brocade dress, descending the stairs or wandering the corridors. Raynham Hall remains a popular destination for ghost hunters and enthusiasts to this day.

2. Poveglia, Venice, Italy

Poveglia is a small island located in the Venetian Lagoon, just off the coast of Venice, Italy. It has a dark and sinister past, having been used as a quarantine station during the bubonic plague outbreaks in the 1700s, and later as a mental hospital in the 20th century. The island has long been rumored to be haunted, with stories of tormented spirits and ghostly apparitions. In fact, it is said to be one of the most haunted places in Italy. The island is now abandoned and off-limits to the public, but brave adventurers and ghost hunters have been known to sneak onto its shores in search of paranormal activity.

3. Bhangarh Fort, India

Bhangarh Fort is a 17th-century fort located in the state of Rajasthan, India. It is said to be one of the most haunted places in India, with a dark and eerie past. Legend has it that a tantrik (black magician) cursed the fort after his advances were rejected by Princess Ratnavati, who lived in the fort. He placed a spell on the fort, causing its inhabitants to perish in a tragic accident. Since then, it is said that the fort is cursed, and those who enter its premises after dark will never return. The fort is now a popular tourist attraction, with visitors hoping to catch a glimpse of the ghostly apparitions that are said to haunt its walls. Despite its reputation, the fort remains a popular destination for adventure seekers and paranormal enthusiasts.

4. Ancient Ram Inn, Wotton-under-Edge, England

The Ancient Ram Inn is a historic building located in the town of Wotton-under-Edge in Gloucestershire, England. Built in the 12th century, it is said to be one of the most haunted buildings in the country. The inn has a long and storied history, having been used as a courthouse, a pub, and a private residence over the years. It is rumored to be built on top of an ancient pagan burial ground and has been the site of numerous paranormal occurrences, including ghostly apparitions, strange noises, and even reports of being touched or pushed by unseen forces. The inn is now a popular destination for ghost hunters and paranormal enthusiasts, with many claiming to have had unsettling experiences within its walls.

5. Port Arthur, Australia

Port Arthur is a small town located on the Tasman Peninsula in Tasmania, Australia. It is home to the Port Arthur Historic Site, a former penal settlement that operated from 1830 to 1877. The site is said to be haunted by the spirits of the convicts who suffered and died there, as well as those of the prison guards and their families who lived on the site. Visitors have reported hearing strange noises, feeling sudden drops in temperature, and seeing ghostly apparitions throughout the site. In addition to the historic prison site, Port Arthur is also known for the tragedy that occurred there in 1996, when a lone gunman killed 35 people and injured many more. The site of the massacre is now a memorial to the victims and a reminder of the town's tragic past.

6. The Queen Mary, Long Beach, California

The Queen Mary is a retired ocean liner that has been permanently moored in Long Beach, California since 1967. The ship is said to be one of the most haunted places in the world, with numerous reports of ghostly activity throughout its decks and cabins. The ship served as a troopship during World War II, and it is believed that many of the spirits on board are those of soldiers who died on the ship or in battle. Visitors to the Queen Mary have reported seeing apparitions, feeling cold spots, and hearing unexplained noises. Some of the most haunted areas of the ship include the first-class swimming pool, the engine room, and the "door 13" area, where a crew member is said to have been crushed to death. The Queen Mary now serves as a hotel and museum, with guided tours of its haunted areas offered regularly.

7. Burg Wolfsegg, Germany

Burg Wolfsegg is a medieval castle located in the town of Wolfsegg am Hausruck in Upper Austria. The castle has a long and intriguing history, and it is believed to be haunted by the ghosts of its former inhabitants. The castle was built in the 12th century and has been the site of numerous battles and sieges throughout the centuries. Visitors to the castle have reported hearing strange noises, feeling cold spots, and even seeing apparitions of knights and soldiers. One of the most famous legends associated with the castle involves a beautiful woman who was imprisoned there by her jealous husband. It is said that her ghost still haunts the castle to this day, seeking revenge on her former captor. Despite its spooky reputation, Burg Wolfsegg is now a popular tourist attraction, with guided tours offered throughout the year.

8. Lizzie Borden House, Fall River, Massachusetts

The Lizzie Borden House is a historic house located in Fall River, Massachusetts. It is notorious for being the site of a gruesome double murder that occurred on August 4, 1892. Andrew Borden, the father of the household, and his second wife, Abby Borden, were found brutally murdered in the house, and Andrew's daughter, Lizzie Borden, was accused and later acquitted of the crimes.

The house has since become a museum and bed and breakfast, and is said to be haunted by the ghosts of the murdered couple. Guests have reported hearing footsteps, seeing apparitions, and feeling cold spots throughout the house. Some have even claimed to have had encounters with the ghost of Lizzie Borden herself.



The Lizzie Borden House remains a popular tourist attraction for those interested in true crime and the paranormal. It offers guided tours and overnight stays for those brave enough to spend the night in one of America's most infamous haunted houses.

9. Casa Loma, Toronto, Canada

Casa Loma is a majestic castle located in Toronto, Canada. It was built in the early 1900s by Sir Henry Mill Pellatt, a wealthy businessman, and military man. The castle is a grand example of Gothic Revival architecture and boasts over 98 rooms and secret passageways.

Despite its grandeur, Casa Loma is also believed to be haunted by the ghosts of its former inhabitants. Visitors have reported hearing strange noises, seeing apparitions, and feeling cold spots throughout the castle. Some of the most commonly reported sightings include the ghost of Sir Henry Mill Pellatt himself, as well as that of a mysterious woman in white.

Casa Loma now serves as a popular tourist attraction, offering guided tours and events throughout the year. It is also a popular spot for paranormal investigators, who hope to catch a glimpse of the castle's many ghostly inhabitants.

10. Château de Brissac, Brissac-Quincé, France

The Château de Brissac, located in the town of Brissac-Quincé in France, is a stunning Renaissance-style castle that has been around since the 11th century. It is known as the tallest castle in France, with seven floors and over 200 rooms, including a grand ballroom, a chapel, and a library.

Despite its beauty, the Château de Brissac is rumored to be one of the most haunted places in France. Legend has it that the castle is home to the ghost of the "Green Lady," a former resident who was murdered by her husband after he discovered her infidelity. Visitors have reported seeing her ghostly figure wearing a green dress wandering the halls of the castle, as well as feeling cold spots and hearing strange noises.

The Château de Brissac is open to visitors and offers guided tours, as well as special events throughout the year, including Halloween ghost tours. It is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in French history and ghostly tales.

11. The Stanley Hotel, Estes Park, Colorado

The Stanley Hotel, located in Estes Park, Colorado, is known for being the inspiration behind Stephen King's famous novel "The Shining." Built in 1909, the hotel boasts stunning views of the Rocky Mountains and has a rich history.

The Stanley Hotel has gained a reputation as being one of the most haunted places in America. Visitors and staff members have reported seeing apparitions, hearing strange noises, and feeling sudden drops in temperature. It is said that the hotel's original owner, F.O. Stanley, and his wife, Flora, are among the ghosts that haunt the hotel.

In addition to its paranormal activity, The Stanley Hotel offers a variety of tours and experiences for visitors, including a ghost tour, a history tour, and a night tour. It also has several restaurants, a spa, and a whiskey bar. Whether you're a fan of Stephen King or just looking for a spooky experience, The Stanley Hotel is a must-visit destination

12. Fairmont Banff Springs, Canada

The Fairmont Banff Springs is a luxurious hotel located in Banff, Alberta, Canada. Built in 1888, it was originally constructed as a grand railway hotel to promote tourism in the Canadian Rockies. The hotel has since become a popular destination for travelers seeking a unique experience in a stunning natural setting.

Despite its luxurious amenities and beautiful surroundings, the Fairmont Banff Springs has a reputation for being haunted. Guests and staff members have reported seeing ghostly apparitions throughout the hotel, including a bride who supposedly died on her wedding day in the hotel's ballroom. There have also been reports of a bellhop who still helps guests with their luggage, even though he died many years ago.



The hotel offers a variety of activities for guests, including skiing, golfing, hiking, and spa treatments. It also has several restaurants and bars, as well as a museum dedicated to the history of the hotel. Whether you're interested in the hotel's haunted past or simply want to enjoy the beauty of the Canadian Rockies, the Fairmont Banff Springs is a must-visit destination.

13. St. Augustine Lighthouse, St. Augustine, Florida

The St. Augustine Lighthouse is a historic lighthouse located in St. Augustine, Florida. Built in 1874, it served as an important navigational aid for ships along the Florida coast. Today, it is open to the public and is known for its stunning views of the surrounding area.

However, the lighthouse is also famous for its ghostly sightings and paranormal activity. Visitors have reported seeing the apparition of a woman in a blue dress, believed to be the wife of a former lighthouse keeper who tragically died during the construction of the lighthouse. Others have reported hearing mysterious footsteps and voices, and feeling sudden drops in temperature.

The St. Augustine Lighthouse also offers nighttime ghost tours, allowing visitors to explore the lighthouse and its grounds after dark. During these tours, guests have reported capturing photographs of ghostly apparitions and unexplained orbs of light.



Whether you're interested in the lighthouse's rich history or its reputation as a haunted location, the St. Augustine Lighthouse is a fascinating destination to visit in Florida

14. One If by Land, Two If by Sea, New York, New York

One If by Land, Two If by Sea is a historic restaurant located in the heart of Greenwich Village in New York City. Built in 1767 as a carriage house, it was later converted into a residence for Aaron Burr, the third Vice President of the United States.

The restaurant is famous for its romantic atmosphere, exquisite cuisine, and high-profile guests, including celebrities and politicians. However, it is also known for its haunted history.

According to legend, the building is haunted by the ghost of Aaron Burr's daughter, Theodosia Burr Alston, who disappeared at sea in 1813. Visitors and employees have reported seeing her ghostly apparition, as well as strange occurrences such as objects moving on their own and unexplained noises.

Despite its spooky reputation, One If by Land, Two If by Sea remains a popular destination for fine dining and special occasions. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the restaurant's rich history and elegant atmosphere make it a unique and memorable dining experience in New York City

15. Tower of London, England

The Tower of London is a historic castle located in central London, England. It was founded in 1066 by William the Conqueror and has served many purposes over the centuries, including as a royal palace, prison, and place of execution.

The Tower of London is famously known for its dark history and its association with ghosts and hauntings. Many famous people were imprisoned and executed within its walls, including Anne Boleyn, Lady Jane Grey, and Sir Walter Raleigh, among others. There have been many reported sightings of their ghosts and other spectral figures, such as the ghost of a bear that was once kept in the Tower's menagerie.



The Tower of London also houses the Crown Jewels of England, making it a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can take guided tours of the castle and its grounds, including the White Tower and the infamous Bloody Tower, where many of the executions took place. Despite its eerie reputation, the Tower of London remains a must-see destination for anyone interested in British history and architecture.

16. Dock Street Theatre, Charleston, South Carolina

The Dock Street Theatre, located in Charleston, South Carolina, is said to be one of the most haunted theaters in the United States. Built in 1736, it has a long and storied history, serving as a hotel, an auction house, and a theater. It is said to be haunted by a number of ghosts, including the ghost of Junius Brutus Booth, a famous Shakespearean actor and father of John Wilkes Booth, who is said to have appeared on stage. Other ghosts include the Lady in Black, who is believed to be the ghost of a woman who died in a nearby alley, and a ghostly cat that has been seen prowling the theater.

17. Tao Dan Park, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Tao Dan Park in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, is said to be a haunted location due to its history as a former cemetery. The park was built over an ancient burial ground in the late 19th century, and many of the graves were left intact when the park was constructed. Over the years, there have been numerous reports of paranormal activity, including sightings of ghostly figures, strange sounds, and unexplained phenomena. Visitors to the park have reported feeling uneasy or watched, and some have even reported being physically touched by unseen forces. Despite the reports of hauntings, the park remains a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

18. The Old Vicarage, Borgvattnet, Sweden

The Old Vicarage in Borgvattnet, Sweden, is considered one of the most haunted places in the country. The vicarage was built in 1876 and was home to many families and pastors over the years. However, it is believed that many of them were haunted by ghosts and spirits, including a woman in grey, a monk, and a small child. Visitors to the Old Vicarage have reported feeling a strange presence and hearing unexplained noises, such as footsteps and whispers. The building is now a bed and breakfast, and guests can stay overnight to experience the haunted history of the vicarage for themselves.

19. Winchester Mystery House, San Jose, California

The Winchester Mystery House is a mansion located in San Jose, California, that was once the residence of Sarah Winchester, the widow of gun magnate William Wirt Winchester. After the death of her husband and infant daughter, Sarah was convinced that her family was haunted by the spirits of those who had been killed by Winchester rifles. In an effort to appease these spirits, she continually added to and renovated the mansion for nearly 38 years until her death in 1922. The result is a sprawling, labyrinthine mansion filled with staircases that lead to nowhere, secret passages, and doors that open onto walls. The mansion is said to be haunted by the spirits of those killed by Winchester rifles, as well as Sarah Winchester herself.

20. The Driskill, Austin, Texas

The Driskill is a historic hotel located in downtown Austin, Texas, with a reputation for being one of the most haunted hotels in the state. The hotel was built in 1886 by cattle baron Jesse Driskill and has a rich history that includes hosting famous politicians, musicians, and even ghost hunters. Legend has it that Jesse Driskill haunts the hotel to this day, often appearing in the lobby or in the grand staircase. Guests have reported strange noises, cold spots, and apparitions throughout the hotel, particularly in the "suicide brides" suite, where several brides are said to have taken their lives over the years.

21. Akershus Fortress, Norway

Akershus Fortress, also known as Akershus Castle, is a medieval fortress located in Oslo, Norway. Built in the late 13th century, it served as a royal residence until the 17th century and then became a military base. Over the centuries, it has witnessed several battles, sieges, and even served as a prison. Many believe that the fortress is haunted by the ghosts of former prisoners and soldiers who died there. Visitors have reported hearing strange noises, footsteps, and seeing apparitions. In fact, some say that the fortress is one of the most haunted places in Norway. Despite the rumors, Akershus Fortress remains a popular tourist attraction and historical landmark.

22. Castle of Good Hope, Cape Town, South Africa

The Castle of Good Hope is a 17th-century star fort located in Cape Town, South Africa. It was built by the Dutch East India Company in the 1660s, making it the oldest surviving colonial building in South Africa. Over the centuries, the castle has seen its fair share of violence and death, and it is said to be haunted by a number of ghosts. The most famous of these is the ghost of a soldier who was reportedly seen in the castle's bell tower in the early 20th century. Other reported hauntings include the ghost of Lady Anne Barnard, who is said to haunt the Governor's Room, and the ghost of a black dog that is said to bring bad luck to those who see it.

23. The Catacombs of Paris, France

The Catacombs of Paris, France, are an underground network of tunnels and chambers that house the remains of over six million people. Originally a stone quarry, the catacombs were converted into an ossuary in the late 18th century due to overcrowding in Parisian cemeteries. The bones are arranged in artistic patterns and form a macabre spectacle that draws tourists and thrill-seekers from all over the world. However, the catacombs are also known for their haunting atmosphere and have been the site of many eerie experiences and ghost sightings. Visitors have reported hearing strange noises and feeling an inexplicable sense of dread while exploring the dark tunnels.

23. Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Edinburgh Castle is a historic fortress located on a hill in Edinburgh, Scotland. It has been a royal residence and military stronghold for centuries, and has seen many battles and sieges throughout its long history. Due to its rich and sometimes violent past, many ghostly apparitions have been reported within the castle's walls. Visitors have reported seeing ghostly figures in period clothing, hearing unexplained footsteps, and feeling cold spots throughout the castle. The most famous ghost is said to be the headless drummer boy, who reportedly haunts the castle's dungeons. The castle is open to the public for tours and is a popular tourist attraction in Edinburgh.

24. Forbidden City, Beijing, China

The Forbidden City, also known as the Palace Museum, is a historic palace complex located in the center of Beijing, China. The palace was home to emperors of the Ming and Qing dynasties, and it is said to be one of the most haunted places in China. The palace has a long and bloody history, with many reported ghost sightings and unexplained occurrences. Some of the most famous ghosts include the imperial concubine Wan and the Qing dynasty's last emperor Puyi. Visitors and staff members have reported hearing footsteps and seeing apparitions, and some have even claimed to have been pushed or grabbed by unseen hands.

25. Hoia Baciu Forest, Cluj-Napoca, Romania

Hoia Baciu Forest is located near the city of Cluj-Napoca in Romania and is known for its paranormal activity. It is believed that the forest is home to ghosts, UFO sightings, and unexplained energy fields. People who have visited the forest report feelings of unease, dizziness, and nausea. Some have even claimed to have disappeared or experienced time lapses while in the forest. The area is also associated with strange light phenomena, including mysterious orbs and shapes that appear and disappear without explanation. Despite its reputation, the forest remains a popular destination for hikers and nature enthusiasts.

26. Kehoe House, Savannah, Georgia

Kehoe House is a historic bed and breakfast located in Savannah, Georgia. Built in 1892, the house is known for its stunning architecture and rich history, but it's also known for its spooky tales. Rumored to be haunted, the Kehoe House is said to be visited by the spirits of former residents, including children who died in the home. Guests have reported strange occurrences, such as doors opening and closing on their own, objects moving without explanation, and the sounds of footsteps in empty hallways. Despite the eerie happenings, the Kehoe House is a popular destination for visitors to Savannah who are looking for a unique and historical place to stay.

27. Gettysburg Battlefield, Pennsylvania

Gettysburg Battlefield is a historic site in Pennsylvania that was the site of the bloodiest battle of the American Civil War. The battle, which took place in July 1863, resulted in more than 50,000 casualties, and it's said that many of the soldiers who died there still haunt the area. Visitors to the battlefield have reported seeing apparitions of soldiers, hearing the sounds of gunfire and battle cries, and feeling cold spots and sudden gusts of wind. Some visitors have even reported seeing ghostly reenactments of the battle. The site is now a national park and is open for visitors to explore and learn about the history of the battle.

28. Corvin Castle, Hunedoara, Romania

Corvin Castle, also known as Hunyadi Castle, is a Gothic-Renaissance castle located in Hunedoara, Romania. The castle was built in the 14th century on the site of an old Roman fort and has a rich and tumultuous history. It has been the residence of several noble families throughout the centuries, and it was even used as a prison during the communist regime. The castle is said to be haunted by the ghosts of past prisoners and torturers, and visitors have reported strange phenomena such as unexplained noises and cold spots. Today, Corvin Castle is a popular tourist attraction and a symbol of Transylvania.

29. Lawang Sewu, Semarang, Indonesia

Lawang Sewu is a historic building located in Semarang, Indonesia. The building has a dark past and is known to be haunted. It was built in the early 20th century by the Dutch East Indies government and served as the headquarters of the Central Java Railway Company. During the Japanese occupation of Indonesia in World War II, Lawang Sewu was used as a prison and execution site, resulting in numerous deaths. Today, visitors report hearing unexplained sounds and feeling cold spots throughout the building. There have also been sightings of ghostly figures, including a headless ghost, believed to be the spirit of a Dutch woman who committed suicide in the building.

30. Shaniwarwada Fort
City of Pune, Maharashtra, India.

Shaniwarwada Fort is a historic fortification in the city of Pune, Maharashtra, India. The fort was built in 1732 by the Peshwa rulers of the Maratha Empire and was once the seat of power for the Peshwa rulers until 1818. However, the fort is also known for its alleged hauntings.

According to legend, the fort is haunted by the ghost of a young prince named Narayanrao who was brutally murdered in the fort in 1773. It is said that on full moon nights, the ghost of the prince can be heard shrieking for help, and his body can be seen running around the fort before disappearing.

The fort is a popular tourist destination in Pune and attracts many visitors who are interested in its history and legends. However, it is important to note that there is little scientific evidence to support claims of hauntings, and many of these legends are based on local folklore and superstition.

If you have any questions related to this topic, don't hesitate to leave a comment! I'll be happy to provide a prompt response. And if you happen to spot any errors in my article, please do let me know so that I can fix them and create even better content for you. Thanks for your support!