Haunted Fall Travel Destinations: Five Beautiful Places with Dark Histories
Your travel guide to tricks and treats around the world
Happy Halloweennnnn! If your idea of fall travel involves mysterious castles, folklore, and maybe a friendly ghost or two, you’re in the right place. Here are five destinations around the world that are hauntingly beautiful — and just spooky enough to make your autumn adventures unforgettable.
Before you start searching for something less... seasonally spirited, rest assured: each of these places is stunning in its own right. Think charming streets, centuries-old architecture, and rich local traditions. Whether you’re chasing legends or just looking for a fall trip with extra atmosphere, these destinations promise equal parts tricks and treats.
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.
The city’s dramatic skyline of spires and stone seems made for foggy evenings with a slight chill in the air. It’s fascinating year-round, but autumn steals the show as fiery leaves contrast against gothic architecture, cobblestone streets, and centuries-old cemeteries.
Edinburgh Castle overlooking a cemetery in late autumn
Visit Edinburgh Castle and Explore the Edinburgh Vaults Beneath Old Town
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: Order a proper Scotch at The Black Cat and toast to the ghosts who’ve earned their eternal bar tab.
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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 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.
17th century tombstones in Salem, Massachusetts
Discover the Dark History of the Salem Witch Trials
No visit to Salem is complete without a trip to the Salem Witch Museum for an eerie exploration into the infamous witch 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 continent’s most haunted destinations. From the medieval charm of Old Town to dark, winding alleyways and the imposing Prague Castle, this city has a ghost story ready to be told 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.
Skulls and bones decorate Sedlec Ossuary, a chapel in the Czech Republic outside of Prague
Visit Sedlec Ossuary for a Bone-Chilling Chapel Experience
About an hour outside Prague lies Sedlec Ossuary, a chapel that dates back to the 13th century. It’s both haunting and striking, adorned with the remains of over 40,000 individuals — the result of the Black Death, the Hussite Wars, and the local practice of respectfully storing bones when cemeteries became full.
A visit here is a must for anyone fascinated by history or intrigued by the macabre. Wrap up your visit with a pint and hearty Czech fare at a nearby pub — the perfect 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.
Bran Castle, nicknamed Dracula’s Castle, in Romania
Explore Dracula’s Castle in Transylvania
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 set your imagination racing. Explore its labyrinth of corridors and dungeons, picturing 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 țuică (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, the city enchants and unnerves in equal measure.
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is considered the most haunted cemetery in the United States
Haunted Hotspots in New Orleans
Start 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 tombs that give the city its eerie allure. Join a haunted walking tour to hear ghost stories and learn of Voodoo legends woven through the French Quarter.
While you’re there, sample iconic dishes: gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys, crawfish étouffées, and of course, a beignet with café au lait at Café du Monde. Catch live jazz on Frenchman Street, and for a different thrill, take a swamp tour on a sunny day to glide through the bayou and spot lurking alligators.
The Best Spirit in New Orleans: Enjoy a classic Sazerac — invented in NOLA, this cocktail will lift your spirits, especially as the ghosts of the French Quarter come out to play after dark.
Thank you for reading and joining me on this spooky (and scenic) autumn adventure!
Which haunted destination are you most tempted to explore first? I’d love to hear your pick! And if you enjoyed this guide, pass it along to a friend who loves a little mystery with their travel.
