Many of us love a good ghost story. When I travel, I always want to check out the haunted places at my destination.
However, there are certain haunted places in the world that have especially intense stories and energy. Trust me when I say that all of these spots are on my bucket list!
But what makes a place haunted?
I have personally visited many of these haunted places (plus I live in Salem Massachusetts!) and I can say without a doubt that the energy is different.
When you’re in one of these haunted places, or anywhere else that may be haunted, you’ll feel a clear shift in energy. Sometimes, this is accompanied by a shift in temperature too (usually to a colder temperature), though other times you might just feel like your chest is being compressed.
The energy will feel really heavy, especially if the place is haunted for more negative reasons. I always feel this energy super intensely when I go to the Ouija Board Museum in Salem. It’s filled with ouija boards that have really dark histories, and you can definitely sense the shift as soon as you enter!
Other signs of hauntings include:
- The lights flickering on and off
- Unexplained power loss
- Unexplained smells
- Random noises with no clear origin
- Physical items moving with no energetic source
- Doors slamming shut
- Unexplained shadows, apparitions, or figures
- Hearing odd noises
- Having odd thoughts that don’t feel like your own
I tend to think that any significant shift in energy accompanied by a physical change is a clear sign that a place is haunted.
Today I’m sharing the top 30 most haunted places in the world (including the most haunted places in America on this list). I chose destinations with super intense backstories, not just a vague rumor of haunting, so you can be sure to have a real experience if you choose to visit any of these haunted places.
28. Myrtles Plantation, Louisiana, USA
According to many ghost hunters, the Myrtles Plantation in Louisiana is one of the most haunted places in America. In fact, it’s though to have the most ghosts per square foot out of any haunted house.
Francis Kermeen lived in Myrtles Plantation with her former husband for over 10 years. Eventually, she had to move out because the hauntings were too intense and her marriage was over, which she attributes to negative energy. She describes hearing footsteps on the stairs, watching doors open, and waking up to see people standing over her as clear as day.
The first ghost story about the house involves a young slave girl named Chloewas, who was hanged on the grounds after she served poisoned food to the lady of the house and her two daughters, killing all three. However, historians aren’t sure how accurate this is or whether she even knew the food was poisoned.
Later, more people died on the plantation, some by natural causes and more than a few through mysterious accidents or clear murder. According to ghost hunters, over nine ghosts routinely haunt the property, with a few additional guests who appear from time to time.
No one lives in Myrtles Plantation nowadays. Instead, it is touted as one of the most haunted places in America and is open for regular tours as well as ghost tours.
If nothing else, you can learn a lot of history by taking one of these tours. However, I think there’s definitely a strong, dark energy surrounding the plantation.
27. Ancient Ram Inn, Gloucestershire, England
Built in 1145, the Ancient Ram Inn in Gloucestershire, England is known as one of the most haunted places in the world for many good reasons.
First of all, the Inn is located directly on Ley Lines, which are strong sources of natural energy that witches and magicians use when casting extremely large spells. Even without tragedy, the Inn has an intense energy.
In 1145, the Inn was build as a home for slaves and workers who were building a nearby church. They also built canals to divert the local stream to the Inn, which many claimed opened up the energy from the Ley Lines.
Now, ghost hunters, travelers, and even former skeptics claim that the Inn is home to various types of demons and spirits. The former owner also found evidence of ritual sacrifices on the grounds, plus he uncovered skeletal remains of multiple children who were most likely stabbed to death.
The most famous ghost in the Inn is a witch who was burned at the stake during the 1500s. You can even rent the specific room she haunts. However, the Inn is also said to be haunted by the spirits of bishops, the former innkeeper’s daughter who was hanged in the attic, and a whole of paranormal orbs, spirits, and demons.
You can actually stay overnight in the Inn, which only the bravest accomplish.
26. Hellfire Club, Montpelier Hill, Ireland
Montpelier Hill, more commonly known as the Hellfire Club to locals, is an area filled with gorgeous forest trails and views of the city. However, it’s thought to be one of the most haunted places in the world due to the things that happened at the hunting lodge, which sits on top of the hill.
When the lodge was first built, the Cairn had to be destroyed, but the Irish believed that this would anger the spirits. More than a few accidents occurred right away, and the building was sold and became a meeting place for the Hellfire Club, a group of men who supposedly practiced black magic.
The president of the club was called the King of Hell and the group was said to worship the devil, even dressing in demonic garb. According to legend, animals and even servants were sacrificed. Once, the devil even appeared to a meeting himself.
Now, Montpelier Hill is a beautiful attraction, but it’s also said to be haunted. You can look for the black cat who was a symbol of the group, or you can see if you feel the oppressive energy that the club members released through rituals.
25. Banff Springs Hotel, Alberta, Canada
If you’re looking for a classic haunted hotel, then you may want to consider a visit to Banff Springs in Canada.
There’s a secret room that was mistakenly built with no windows and no doors (which is said to be haunted) as well as room 873, the scene of a gruesome murder of an entire family.
You can also keep your eyes peeled for the famous burning bride. This bride was set to be married in the hotel and was walking up the stairs lined with candles, when she tripped and her dress caught fire.
However, other hotel workers are said to haunt the area, such as a bellman (who will disappear if you try to tip him) and a bartender.
Not only is this hotel supposedly haunted (and one of the most haunted places in America, or close to the US anyways), but it’s a Fairmont, so it’s absolutely gorgeous.
I haven’t yet had this opportunity to visit this haunted spot, but after watching the AHS Hotel season, it’s definitely on my list!
24. Hoia-Baciu Forest, Romania
The Hoia-Baciu Forest is known as the Bermuda Triangle of Romania. It’s one of the most haunted places in the world and is super popular for folks who want natural, eerily, woodsy haunts.
The forest is extremely dark and misty. Travelers say that you can spot ghosts and spirits among the trees.
Others claim that the forest is a hotspot for the Fae, so you can go missing only to reappear years later as though not a day has passed. However, there are stories that says instead the wood is a portal to alien dimensions rather than the world of the Fae.
People who do make it through the woods and remain in this realm report feeling nauseous, feverish, or feelings of anxiety. Some have developed massive rashes as they exit the forest.
23. Hill of Crosses, Lithuania
In Northern Lithuania, you can visit the Hill of Crosses, an area steeped in war history as well as ghostly legends.
According to the ancient legends, a church used to stand on the hill, until it was struck by lighting and burned down with the congregation stuck inside.
In the middle ages, it was believed that the hill served as the platform for a castle. The inhabitants would stay their enemies and then bury the bodies stuck together, which eventually formed the hill as we know it. Many travelers look out for the spirits of pagan warriors on the Hill of Crosses.
Religion is definitely a part of the Hill of Crosses, so not all of the hauntings here are scary. Many travelers report seeing Saints or even experiencing small miracles in this spot.
Travelers come to this spot to leave a cross in search of miracles. Legend says that, if you leave a cross on the hill, you can heal yourself or a loved one.
Regardless of whether you visit the Hill of Crosses for religious purposes or to ghost hunt, it’s definitely one of the most interesting haunted places in the world that’s steeped in rich history.
22. Tower of London, England
The Tower of London is one of England’s most infamous spots, known for the bloody deaths of Royals and members of the nobility.
Henry VI was murdered here, as well as the two Princes of Edward IV, who went into the tower and never came out. Their bones were found within the fortress many years later.
Other famous nobles were held here, such as Ann Boleyn, Elizabeth I, Lady Jane Grey, and Sir Walter Raleigh.
Many travelers claim to see the ghosts of the princes and of Ann Boleyn, specifically near her execution site. However, there were so many prisoners (many of whom died or were killed within the fortress) that the possibility for sightings is truly endless.
If nothing else, you’ll feel a strong, heavy energy when you get close to the Tower of London. It’s known as one of the most haunted places in the world for a reason.
21. Poveglia Island, Italy
During the Bubonic Plague, the sick were exiled to Poveglia Island, just off the coast of Italy, to remain until they died. When the next wave of the plague hit, barely living bodies were dumped here and even buried alive as a means of prevention.
Later, Poveglia Island became the home to a large mental institution, though patients were sent here for a range of symptoms and diseases. Of course, various experiments were conducted.
There are all sorts of rumors about the types of ghost sightings that happen on Poveglia Island. Eerie sounds, movements, apparitions – you name it and someone has seen it here.
It’s known that you’ll feel the oppressive energy as soon as you step foot on the island. You can even sail around it and get a sense for the vibes.
Unfortunately, it’s very difficult to visit the island nowadays, and any sort of stopover requires extensive approvals from the Italian government. However, if you really want to visit one of the most haunted places in the world, then this is the #1 spot.
20. The Separate Prison, Port Arthur, Australia
Located in Australia, the Separate Prison was built at a time when “new” ideas about criminal reform were being put into practice.
The cells were extremely small and housed criminals for 4-12 months, when they first arrived, before they were assigned elsewhere. Special punishment cells were used by placing criminals who misbehaved in darkness, completely alone, for 30 days with only bread and water.
Each man was given a number and his ever move was supervised. If a prisoner did leave the cell, he was masked to prevent contact with other inmates. Many prisoners intentionally committed murder in order to face the death penalty and escape their torment.
Now, travelers and ghost hunters flock to this notorious prison to try and catch a glimpse of these unhappy prisoners who supposedly linger in spirit.
If you’re looking to visit one of the most haunted places in the world and specifically want a prison setting, then the Separate Prison is definitely the place to check out.
If you want to check out one of the most haunted places in the world without being afraid, then you may enjoy Leap Castle.
Located in Cooldrerry, Ireland, Leap Castle is home to its owner, Sean Ryan, though he often allows guests to come visit.
Sean has cited many different experiences with the ghosts of the castle, yet they seem to be friendly. His guests also see, hear, and even smell these ghosts, but aren’t often afraid.
A Red Lady is said to haunt the castle, as well as the ghosts of two little girls, Emily and Charlotte, who run about and play.
However, some guests have said that the castle is also haunted by a sinister elemental spirit who is described as an “It.”
18. Bhangarh Fort, India
Located in India, the Bhangarh Fort has many structures within its walls, including several temples, public chambers, a marketplace, and the royal palace.
According to legend, the fort was cursed by a magician who tried to cast a love spell on a young woman. She fled and threw the potion down the hill, killing the magician, but not before he could curse the fort, making it a place where no one could live.
The locals near the fort will tell a variety of odd tales. Regardless of the lore, it’s a fact that many mysterious deaths have occurred at the fort, including those of tourists.
In fact, death occurred so frequently that the government posted signs banning tourists from visiting the fort after dark.
Of course, people still flock to the fort to feel the heavy energy and to try to get a sense for what a widespread curse looks like.
17. Edinburgh Castle, Scotland
Located in Scotland, Edinburgh Castle is popular for more than just historical purposes.
The dungeons are considered especially austere. Colonial prisoners from the American Revolutionary War and French prisoners from the Seven Years War were housed here; many travelers report sightings of war prisoners who have not yet moved on in spirit form.
Even the ghost of a dog is thought to wander the castle’s cemetery. You can also hear the tunes of a lonely piper who supposedly plays his pipes from time to time.
There are unlimited ghosts to see at Edinburgh Castle, as it was besieged too many times to count. Regardless, it’s a really beautiful spot to check out in hopes of a paranormal experience!
16. Forsyth Park, Savannah, GA
Savannah, Georgia, is known for being one of the most haunted places in America, however Forsyth Park is an especially spooky to visit in Savannah.
Mysterious underground tunnels run under the streets of Savannah. According to historians, autopsies were performed in the tunnels directly under Forsyth Park.
You can hear all sorts of rumblings in the park, especially during twilight and after dark, but many visitors also see shadowy figures as the night goes on.
15. Obvodny Canal, St. Petersburg, Russia
The Obvodny Canal runs for five miles through St. Petersburg and is known to be the site of many strange occurrences.
In the beginning, construction workers complained of headaches constantly and had sudden outbursts of violence. Many also committed suicide while building the canal.
Later, many claimed that they hadn’t even wanted to commit suicide (at least those who survived) and were pushed into the water by an invisible force.
Many Russians believe that you can spot the souls of the workers lurking beneath the water.
This is a totally free attraction with a really intense energy. It’s definitely work a look!
14. Oriental Theater (Iroquois Theater), Chicago
The Oriental Theater is located in Chicago, though it was formerly known as the Iroquois Theater. It’s one of the most haunted places in America, with a strong history of paranormal sightings.
Almost 600 people perished when a fire broke out in the Iroquois, a true mass tragedy. The body count was so enormous that the dead had to be stacked behind the theater.
The theater was rebuilt, but coined “death alley” by locals. Now, look for ghosts of people dressed in theater clothing from 1903.
The RMS Queen Mary is a ship that served as a luxury ocean liner from 1936 to 1967. Today, it’s a popular hotel, although the rumors of hauntings reach far and wide.
In fact, the RMS Queen Mary is said to be one of the most haunted places in America, even though it’s a ship. We know that the boat was the site of at least one clear murder while it was in use and that one child died aboard. In total, there were over 49 deaths recorded, though many of them were considered “normal.”
However, there are multiple accounts of mediums speaking to other departed children who were murdered by guests. This is the best place to encounter ghostly guests dressed up in 1930s garb too, if you’re looking for a Gatsy-esque party atmosphere.
The engine room is considered to be a special hotbed of paranormal activity. This is one of the most haunted places in the world that you can actually stay in overnight, so it’s definitely worth a visit!
If you’re too nervous to spend the night, you can also go on a brief afternoon tour that takes you through each of the reportedly haunted places on the ship.
12. Daveli’s Cave, Mount Parnitha, Athens
Daveli’s Cave, located in Athens, Greece, dates all the way back to 5BC. It was originally used as a place of worship for disciples of satyr Pan and nymphs. Later, it was used for Christian rituals.
This is one of the most haunted places in the world for many reasons. Some believe that they have seen alien sightings or evidence of government interference, such as storage facilitates for nuclear weapons. Others believe that the cave is used, even to this day, by occultists seeking to release mass amounts of energy.
In fact, you can even happen upon occultist groups performing strange rituals if you’re lucky. You may also see odd sights like water running uphill instead of down, or your phone may go wonky or cease to work as you approach the cave.
Regardless of the origin, something is definitely up with the energetic fields surrounding Daveli’s Cave. Whether or not it’s one of the most haunted places in the world, it’s definitely one of the most bizzare.
The Castle of Good Hope is actually Cape Town’s oldest building. There are a few famous ghosts that are often seen here, but none more popular than the Lady in Grey, a woman who haunts the Castle, weeping into her hands.
However, travelers also say that you may encounter a large black dog who pounces on you, then vanishes. Many people have seen the apparition of a tall man jumping off the side of the walls as well.
If you’re into history, then you may enjoy a visit to the Castle of Good Hope. It houses three museums packed with historical facts and data, as well as a beautiful restaurant in the front courtyard.
With over 6 million people buried here, the Catacombs of Paris is one of the most haunted places in the world for a reason.
Many say that if you’re inside after midnight, the walls of the Catacombs begin to speak. One group happened upon a video camera (only a few years ago) with footage of a man who was lost inside the tombs. They watched him descend into madness as the video progressed, yet the man was never found.
In addition to the actual bodies buried, many people have wandered into the Catacombs and gotten lost. One man’s body was found 11 years later!
The police entered the Catacombs in 2004 and found very strange things, including over 20 cameras, a full cinema to seat tens of people, and fully furnished rooms, as though someone had been living here. The next day when they returned, all evidence of this was gone.
If you’re interested in French history and want to visit one of the most haunted places in the world, the Catacombs may be perfect for you. However, remember to bring a map.
9. Mary Kings Close, Edinburgh, UK
Though Mary Kings Close can be thought of as one of the most haunted places in the world, it’s definitely famous as one of the most haunted places in Scotland. This area consists of an underground market place with a spooky history.
In the 1990s, a famous medium visited and could never enter the room due to the pain she felt. Eventually, she was able to uncover the spirit of a child, Annie, who was separated from her parents and forlorn. The medium bought Annie a doll and said that as long as the doll remained, the child’s spirit would be happy.
This created quite a stir, and travelers from all over brought dolls and other toys for Annie. However, some time later, the original doll mysteriously disappeared, so some say that Annie’s soul is again unhappy.
Annie isn’t the only ghost who haunts the area. Many people walk through the rooms, and paranormal investigators have picked up a massive amount of activity, including matching sayings on multiple devices (“get out of here”) and the form of more than one ghost.
8. Alcatraz, San Francisco, USA
Would this really be a list of the most haunted places in America, or even in the world, if it didn’t include Alcatraz?
Alcatraz was a famous prison that housed some very famous names, including Al Capone, Arthur Doc Barker, and Machine Gun Kelly.
The prison was a maximum security holding with minimal privileges. Punishment for breaking the rules included removing one’s clothes and spending an undefined amount of time in a cell with no lights, mattress, sink, or anything else besides a hole in the ground that functioned as a bathroom.
Cell 14D is especially popular, because an inmate died here after screaming that a demonic creature was going to kill him. Travelers say that you can sense the dread and feel a strong, cold energy envelope you as soon as you enter.
Cell blocks A, B, and C are especially popular if you want to witness hauntings. However, be prepared before you go; Alcatraz isn’t for the faint of heart.
Located at the foot of Mount Fuji is Aokigahara Forest, a truly gorgeous area, yet it has come to be known as the “suicide forest” by locals and tourists alike.
The forest has been the site of over 500 suicides just since the 1950s. Some say this is due to the demons that haunt the area (according to ancient Japanese myth), while others think that the large amount of underground iron deposits causes confusion and interfere with compasses.
This really is one of the most haunted places in the world, because the danger is very real even to tourists. After all, something about the energetic supposedly brings out suicidal tendencies, so proceed with caution.
Larnach Castle is a massive structure built in the late 1800s. It’s known for its impressive gardens and architecture, but is also thought to be haunted.
This Gothic mansion definitely has the feel of a haunted house. In fact, it was even featured on a popular ghost hunting show as one of the most haunted places in the world.
The original owner built the massive ballroom as a present for his daughter, yet she soon succumbed to illness, followed by his wife. Later, he killed himself.
Guests of the castle (which is now a prestigious, exclusive hotel) report seeing doors open randomly and the constant feeling of being watched.
5. Salem, Massachusetts, USA
Of course, I couldn’t make a list about the most haunted places in America, or even in the world, and not include Salem Massachusetts.
Though some of Salem’s claim to fame is exaggerated, the Witch Trials were no joke. 20 people (mainly women) were hanged over the period of a few months for supposedly consorting with the devil and casting curses on the townspeople and children.
Bridget Bishop is though to haunt the Lyceum Bar and Grill, which is incidentally build on the land that she owned.
The House of Seven Gables is also a hub of paranormal activity. It has a generally intense atmosphere, plus the tour guides will be happy to tell you about their own paranormal experiences.
However, I personally love the Ouija Board Museum. This is a small museum in the back of a shop that is filled with 50+ ouija boards, each of which have a dark history. You can feel the super intense energy as soon as you go inside, and there’s a ouija board to try out if you’re really brave.
Related: 24+ Affordable Things To Do In Salem Massachusetts
Located in Mexico, the Island of the Dolls is iconic, and not just because it’s one of the most haunted places in the world.
This island is well-hidden among the canals and features hundreds of dolls (and various doll parts) hanging from trees. If you’ve ever watched a horror movie based on dolls, then you’ll know exactly why this is scary.
However, the idea actually began when a local man found the body of a dead girl in the water nearby. Afraid of her ghost, her started placing dolls around the island to ward off spirits.
Some say the island was haunted already, while others say the dolls attracted more ghosts. Regardless, your best bet is hiring a boat and viewing the island from the water.
Located in Ragunda, Sweden, the Borgvattnet Haunted Vicarage is so scary that you actually get a certificate of completion if you make it through the night.
Guests of this Vicarage-turned-inn claim to hear footsteps, music, and the crying sounds of three ladies, though some have also seen apparitions.
However, none of the ghosts are thought to be excessively scary, so this might be the perfect place for you if you want just a small thrill. Plus, the countryside near the Inn is truly beautiful.
2. The Necromanteion of Acheron, Ephyra Epirus, Greece
The Necromanteuion of Acheron is located on the River Acheron in Greece. In 3 or 4 BC, a temple was constructed dedicated to Hades and Persephone.
In fact, because Hades is the god of the Underworld, the temple was used solely for necromancy. The Necromanteuion of Acheron was believed to be a spot where you could reach the Underworld from our world, so it was the perfect place to communicate with the spirits of the dead.
The Greeks would ingest stimulants or narcotics in order to communicate, as well as sacrifice animals. The rituals of Necromanteuion of Acheron were very intense and secretive.
Though necromancy was practiced all around Greece, the Necromanteuion of Acheron is unique in that it is supposedly a portal to the Underworld as well as a place of ritual and magic.
Located in Tasmania, Port Arthur is a formal penal settlement and is the place where more than 1000 people died.
For sheer numbers alone, Port Arthur really is one of the most haunted places in the world. There are hundreds of documented ghost stories from visitors and travelers, including some caught on tape by paranormal investigators.
The random violence that took place at Port Arthur is unparalleled. Men who were previously placid turned violent and killed each other, or committed suicide with no previous warning.
It’s best to visit Port Arthur after dark for the full effect. The Port offers nightly tours that detail many of the deaths and show specific locations where you might encounter a spirit.
Leave a Reply