Europe is full of ancient castles, mystical legends and foggy streets where the past is felt in every stone. Discover the continent's most mystical places, where stories of ghosts and vampires come to life. Castles, catacombs, medieval cities and spooky tours - find out why Europe is the best place to celebrate Halloween 2025

Europe is full of legends, ancient castles and mystical places where the past still lives in the shadow of ghosts. During the Halloween season 2025, these locations turn into real magnets for lovers of thrills and atmospheric travel. From Scottish fortresses with interesting stories to the medieval streets of Prague - every corner of the continent has its own ghosts and many secrets.

If you are looking for where to spend Halloween in Europe 2025, our guide will help you choose the perfect place for a night when the line between worlds is blurred.

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Why is Europe the best place to meet ghosts?

Europe is not just a continent with a rich history, but a real open-air museum, where each era has left its mark in stone, myths and secrets. It was here that legends about vampires, ghost brides, black monks and headless knights were born.

The ancient cities of the continent retain the spirit of the Middle Ages, and castles standing on cliffs and river banks are transformed into a place for night tours, theatrical shows and themed festivals.

Europe is the best place to celebrate Halloween 2025, where history, legends and a mysterious atmosphere create a unique travel experience.

Top haunted places in Europe

London Bridge, United Kingdom

A former place of public executions and one of the oldest buildings in London, London Bridge is considered one of the popular haunts of ghosts in Britain. Its history dates back to Roman times, and until the 17th century, the heads of executed “traitors” were displayed here – a chilling warning to anyone who crossed the bridge.

Today, this iconic landmark attracts not only tourists but also paranormal enthusiasts. Locals tell of shadows and ghostly figures that appear along the Thames after midnight. During the construction of the London Bridge Experience attraction in 2007, a plague burial site with hundreds of skeletons was discovered here – some skulls had holes, indicating that they had once been impaled.

- How to get there: London Bridge Station (Northern and Jubilee lines).

- Interesting: this location is considered one of the most popular “haunted places in London”.

- Events: special themed tours and “fear nights” at the London Bridge Experience throughout October.

Edinburgh Castle, Scotland

Over the city of Edinburgh stands a majestic fortress that has seen wars, executions and dark rituals for centuries. Its dungeons were once a prison, and now are a favorite haunt of ghost hunters. It is said that here you can hear the footsteps of invisible guards and feel a sudden chill in the dark corridors.

The history of the castle is riddled with tragedy, which is why Edinburgh is often called “the most haunted city in Europe”. Its underground vaults and ancient streets hide many stories - from plague victims to secret societies.

- How to get there: the castle is located in the center of Edinburgh, it is convenient to get there on foot, by bus or tram.

- Safety: the dungeons have uneven floors and low ceilings - it is worth having comfortable shoes and a flashlight.

- Events: October features nighttime Ghost Tours and Halloween-themed events.

Bran Castle, Romania

Perched on a rocky hill in Transylvania, Bran Castle has long been considered the home of the legendary Dracula. Although historians doubt that Vlad Tepes actually lived here, the castle’s very atmosphere – with its narrow staircases, Gothic halls and winds whistling through the cracks of its ancient windows – creates a sense of the presence of dark forces.

Romanian folklore about vampires and ghosts comes to life here, especially in October. The castle becomes the center of Halloween celebrations with balls, quests, night tours and themed shows.

- How to get there: About 30 km from Brasov; easy to reach by car or organized tours from Bucharest.

- Safety: High tourist influx in October – book tickets in advance.

- Events: the legendary Dracula's Halloween Party in the castle itself.

Dublin, Ireland

The Irish capital knows how to combine humor, mysticism and ancient legends. From shadowy alleys to old pubs, Dublin is filled with stories of good and evil spirits that appear when darkness descends on the city.

The most famous way to get to know the ghosts of Dublin is the “Ghost Bus Tour”, which combines theater, scary stories and Irish humor. It takes guests past ancient cemeteries, hospitals and bloody crime scenes, turning the evening into a unique journey into the world of ghosts with a light touch of comedy.

- How to get there: the city has a developed transport network; most locations are located in the center.

- Safety: Suitable for the whole family, although some moments may scare young children.

- Events: Themed shows and night tours throughout October.

Frankenstein Castle, Darmstadt, Germany

On a hill above Darmstadt stand the ruins that inspired the legend of Frankenstein. It was here, according to legend, that the alchemist Johann Conrad Dippel conducted experiments with bodily fluids and tried to understand the secret of life and death. His creepy experiments probably became a source of inspiration for Mary Shelley.

Every year in October, the castle comes to life - grandiose costume parties and productions with horror elements are held here. Professional actors create an atmosphere of a Gothic nightmare, and the narrow passages and ancient towers add adrenaline.

- How to get there: the castle is located near Darmstadt, about 30 km from Frankfurt.

- Safety: Wear comfortable shoes - the area is hilly.

- Events: “Frankenstein Halloween Festival” is one of the most famous Halloween events in Europe.

Musham Castle, Unterberg, Austria

One of the most sinister castles in Europe, Musham has a bloody past. In the 17th century, witch trials were held here - more than a hundred people were executed. Today, visitors say that at night in the corridors you can hear moans, footsteps and even see the shadows of those who once died here.

Legends say that after sunset you can meet werewolves on the castle grounds - according to legend, this is where werewolves once lived and terrorized the locals.

- How to get there: The castle is located near Salzburg, easy to reach by car or tour from the city.

- Safety: The area has limited access at night; it is worth booking a visit in advance.

- Events: Themed tours and “Witch Trials” reenactments in October.

Prague, Czech Republic

Prague’s rich medieval architecture provides the perfect backdrop for ghost stories that have been passed down from generation to generation. In the ancient quarters of Hradcany, Lesser Town, and Old Town, the narrow streets, old cemeteries, and abandoned courtyards are full of legends. Local guides tell stories of headless monks, the shadows of alchemists, and ghostly women who appear during the full moon.

During night tours, guests often experience a slight chill, goosebumps, and whispers coming from the darkness. It’s a safe yet incredibly atmospheric way to experience the spirit of old Prague on the spookiest night of the year.

- Getting there: Most locations are located in the historic center, making it easy to get around on foot.

- Safety: The cobblestones are uneven; wear comfortable shoes and stay close to the group during nighttime tours.

- Events: Themed “Ghost Tours” and special Halloween-themed walks throughout October.

Hill of Crosses, Lithuania

One of the most mysterious places in Eastern Europe. The Hill of Crosses is a hill covered with thousands of crosses of various sizes and shapes, left by pilgrims over the centuries. It symbolizes faith, protest and memory, but at the same time is full of otherworldly energy.

Local legends tell of ghostly monks who supposedly guard this sacred place. At night, they say, you can hear the rustling of metal crosses and a soft whisper, as if the souls themselves are whispering prayers. The atmosphere here is more meditative than scary, but the feeling of the presence of something higher is almost physical.

- How to get there: about 12 km from the city of Šiauliai, the most convenient way to get there is by car or bus.

- Safety: the place is remote and poorly lit; it is not recommended to visit it alone at night.

- Events: There are no official Halloween events - it is more of a place of silence and reflection.

Paris, France

Underneath the romantic streets of Paris stretch dozens of kilometers of underground tunnels – the famous Catacombs of Paris, which store the remains of over six million people. This huge ossuary is one of the most eerie places in Europe, where the history of death literally breathes from the walls.

During the day, guided tours are held here, telling about the plague, crowded cemeteries and secret underground rituals. Access is prohibited at night, but above ground Paris also has its “dark side” – night tours of the Marais and Latin Quarters introduce tourists to the ghosts of the old city, loves, jealousies and mysterious disappearances.

- How to get there: Metro to Denfert-Rochereau station – the entrance to the Catacombs is nearby. Most night tours start from the city center.

- Safety: Night descents to the Catacombs are prohibited; book tickets online in advance.

- Events: In October, a series of themed “Ghost Walks” through Parisian neighborhoods.

Akershus Fortress, Oslo, Norway

On the shores of the picturesque Oslo Fjord stands Akershus Fortress, built in the 13th century. It has survived sieges, executions and fires, and its walls preserve memories of the times when it was a royal residence and later a prison.

According to legend, the souls of former prisoners and even the ghosts of Norwegian kings wander here. Visitors talk about strange sounds of footsteps, cold drafts and figures appearing in the semi-dark corridors. The atmosphere is so steeped in history that it seems that the castle lives a life of its own even after sunset.

- How to get there: Located in the center of Oslo, near the pier; easy to get to on foot or by tram.

- Safety: The area is partially open at night, so it’s worth having a flashlight and keeping up with the group.

- Events: Akershus by Night tours and Halloween themed tours.

Halloween in Europe 2025 is a unique opportunity to see the continent from a different side: mysterious, historical and a little spooky. Castles, catacombs, old towns and legends create a special atmosphere that you won’t find anywhere else. Plan your trip in advance – and turn your Halloween into a real adventure story.

Plan your trip easily with the “Tourist Guide” from Visit World!

- Step-by-step instructions for applying for a tourist visa – from the application form to the interview.

- Information on visa fees and application processing times.

- Rules for filling out the application form and an example of a ready-made tourist visa.

- Life hacks and tips for a comfortable visit to the country.

Everything you need for a safe and hassle-free trip, in one guide!

Remember! Christmas is a magical winter holiday that attracts with twinkling lights, decorated trees, festive food and traditions. There is no more festive place to spend this family holiday than Christmas markets. Read here about the 10 best Christmas markets in Europe to visit in winter 2025/2026.

Photo – Freepik

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