15 of the Scariest Ghost Tours Around the World
Spirits, ghouls, and things that lurk in the shadows after dark can be found around the world ... if you know where to look. And these tours—which include everything from creepy coach rides with comedic theatrics to somber strolls through tragic neighborhoods—can show you all the best places to do a little ghost hunting this Halloween season. (Or year-round, if chills and thrills are your particular poison.) But no matter what kind of spook connoisseur you consider yourself to be, these global ghost tours offer thrills for all, with options across Europe and the United States.
1. Dive into voodoo and vampires in New Orleans, Louisiana, US
Often described as the most haunted city in the US, spook-seekers need look no further than New Orleans to get their fix of vampire mythology, ghostly sightings, and voodoo culture. This after-dark walking tour ticks off some of the city’s scariest sights, including the LaLaurie Mansion and Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop, with a local guide providing even more insight into the city’s haunting heritage.
2. Uncover the New York City, US’ underworld
With true crime tales and sinister stories lurking around every street corner, even the most hardened ghost hunter can uncover something new in New York City. Go off the city’s beaten track on this walking tour that shines a light on the gangs and ghosts that hide in plain sight in the US' most famous gangland.
3. Immerse yourself in the menace of Venice, Italy
With its long history and labyrinthine canals, it’s no surprise that menace lurks just beneath the surface in Venice, Italy. Discover shadowy waterways, secluded squares, and Gothic architecture around the Rialto Bridge on this evening walking tour that introduces visitors to some of the city’s spookiest legends.
4. Discover the sinister streets of London, England
From Fleetstreet’s demon barber to Whitechapel’s Jack the Ripper, there’s no shortage of terrifying tales to be told around the UK capital. This bus tour introduces brave riders to some of the horrifying highlights, offering immersive theatrics along the way.
5. Hear petrifying tales in Prague, Czech Republic’s Old Town
One of the few cities in the world where you’ll find a dedicated monument to a ghost—Jáchym Berka, aka the Iron Man—Prague is a must-visit for any phantom fan. Hear the local legends firsthand on this Old Town walking tour, which uses small-group storytelling for maximum spooks.
6. Ghost hunt by lantern light in Stockholm, Sweden
Let The Right One In brought Stockholm's unique brand of Gothic melancholy to the world's attention, though the city's vampiric legends and menacing myths go back much further. Explore the city's oldest neighborhood on this lantern-lit walking tour and discover creepy crypts, lonely alleys, and a very bloody history.
7. Descend into Edinburgh, Scotland’s underworld
Edinburgh's underground vaults draw ghost hunters from across the globe, thanks to their haunting history and well-preserved state. Descend into the mysterious underworld on this evening walking tour of the Scottish capital, which also passes through the ghost-filled Greyfriars Kirkyard.
8. Explore a haunted hotel in Austin, Texas, US
The Driskill Hotel, known for its resident ghosts and cursed suite, is Austin’s most popular paranormal attraction, though there are many more frights to be found around the city. Uncover Austin’s haunted history on this city-wide walking tour, before swapping the Texas heat for spine-chilling stories with included access to Driskill’s interior.
9. Ride around York, England’s spookiest spots
Frequently cited as the most haunted city in Europe, if not the world, York has scary sights by the bucket (of blood) load. Tick off several of them, including York Minster and Dick Turpin's grave, on this bus tour, which draws on audience participation for some frighteningly good fun.
10. Dig into Dublin, Ireland’s devilish side
Plagues, wars, and the original Hellfire Club shape the paranormal backdrop of the Irish capital. Learn about the eerie entrepreneurship of grave robbers and search for the ghosts of Kilmainham Jail on this bus tour, which includes a pint of Dutch courage and free pass to a Dublin walking tour.
11. Nightcreep around Colorado, US’ haunted capital
Denver's Capitol Hill is widely considered Colorado's most haunted hot spot, thanks to landmark locations including the Molly Brown House Museum and Patterson Inn. Visit macabre mansions and hear terrifying tales on this evening walking tour, which also ticks off some of the city's best viewpoints.
12. Go ghost-walking in Memphis, Tennessee, US
Walkers in Memphis will find far more than just the ghost of Elvis haunting the city streets. This walking tour takes thrillseekers to some of the scariest spots, including Earnestine and Hazel’s and the Orpheum Theater, with a storyteller guide providing historical insights and immersive spooks.
13. Get an insider glimpse of supernatural San Diego, California, US
Home to Whaley House, often described as America’s most supernatural location, San Diego is a must-see for any paranormal investigator. This small-group tour provides an intimate glimpse of five of San Diego’s most haunted hot spots and whisks visitors around the city in your very own coffin-on-wheels.
14. Shine a light on Paris, France’s haunting heritage
With its creepy catacombs, ancient landmarks, and bloody history, there’s a lot of darkness to be found in the City of Light. Uncover Paris' murky past on this nighttime walking tour, which calls at some of the city’s most spine-chilling spots, including the Hotel de Ville and Palais du Justice.
15. Investigate the scary secrets of Washington DC, US
As the beating heart of the United States, Washington DC is a city rich in spine-chilling tales. Dive into the scandals and secrets that haunt the capital on this nighttime tour and be immersed in the macabre mysteries behind landmarks including Lafayette Square, Blair House, and St. John's Episcopal Church.
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