For travelers with a taste for the supernatural, there’s nothing quite like spending the night in a haunted hotel. Whether it’s a mysterious woman in white, unexplained whispers in the hallway, or a ghostly bellhop who still delivers bags in the afterlife, these hotels offer more than just comfortable rooms—they come with spine-chilling stories and ghostly guests.
In this blog, we explore the most haunted hotels in the world where you can actually stay overnight. So, if you’re feeling brave, pack your bags… and don’t forget your sage.
1. The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado, USA
Famous For: Inspiring Stephen King’s The Shining
Built: 1909
Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, The Stanley Hotel is perhaps the most iconic haunted hotel in the world.
Haunted Highlights:
- Room 217 is the most requested room, known for a ghostly former housekeeper who folds clothes and moves items.
- Guests report hearing piano music when no one is around.
- The hotel offers nightly ghost tours and even a “Spirited” Room Package for those seeking a full-on paranormal experience.
The beautiful Georgian architecture masks the chilling stories within.
2. Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel – Alberta, Canada
Nickname: “The Castle in the Rockies”
Opened: 1888
This luxury resort offers world-class views—and world-class hauntings.
Famous Spirits:
- The Bride: A woman who died on the staircase before her wedding. She has been seen dancing alone in the ballroom.
- Sam the Bellman: A helpful ghost who still assists guests with their luggage on the 9th floor.
Despite the haunted tales, this hotel is a luxurious stay for those seeking both comfort and goosebumps.
3. Ballygally Castle Hotel – Northern Ireland
Built: 17th century
Location: County Antrim, Northern Ireland
Ballygally Castle is not only a charming hotel with sea views—it’s also said to be home to several restless spirits.
Haunted History:
- Lady Isobel Shaw was reportedly locked in her room by her husband and fell (or was pushed) from a window. Her ghost still knocks on doors and roams the halls.
- Guests have reported sudden cold spots and the sensation of being watched.
You can even visit the “Ghost Room” in one of the castle’s turrets.
4. The Langham Hotel – London, England
Opened: 1865
Location: Marylebone, London
Known as one of London’s finest luxury hotels, The Langham is also considered one of the most haunted.
Notable Hauntings:
- Room 333 is said to be the most active. A man in Victorian evening wear has been spotted floating a foot above the ground.
- A German prince reportedly jumped to his death and still roams the halls.
- Guests report sudden drops in temperature and objects moving by themselves.
This haunted gem is a hotspot for paranormal researchers and curious travelers alike.
5. Russell Hotel – Sydney, Australia
Location: The Rocks, Sydney
Built: Late 1800s
Once a hospital for convicts, the Russell Hotel now offers charming, vintage accommodations with a creepy twist.
Paranormal Activity:
- The ghost of a sailor, believed to have died mysteriously in Room 8, is said to appear at night.
- Guests have reported hearing unexplained footsteps and whispers.
With its rich maritime history, this boutique hotel is perfect for those who enjoy a spooky backstory.
6. Dragsholm Slot (Dragsholm Castle) – Denmark
Built: 1215
Location: Zealand, Denmark
This elegant castle-turned-hotel boasts more than 100 ghosts, according to some reports.
Most Famous Ghosts:
- The White Lady, who was reportedly bricked into a wall by her father after falling in love with the wrong man.
- The Grey Lady, believed to be a former maid who still carries out her duties.
- The ghost of the Earl of Bothwell, a prisoner who died in the dungeons.
Guests can stay in beautifully restored rooms and dine in a Michelin-starred restaurant—all while sharing space with centuries-old spirits.
7. Hotel Monte Vista – Flagstaff, Arizona, USA
Opened: 1927
Location: Route 66
Once a favorite of celebrities during Hollywood’s golden era, this historic hotel is known for its paranormal activity.
Spooky Reports:
- A phantom bellboy who knocks on doors in the middle of the night.
- A woman in white seen in the hallways.
- Room 305 is said to be especially haunted, with reports of an old woman rocking in a chair.
The hotel embraces its eerie reputation with pride and even offers paranormal tour packages.
8. Toftaholm Herrgård – Sweden
Location: Vittaryd, Sweden
Built: 14th Century
This countryside manor is steeped in romantic tragedy.
The Legend:
A young man who fell in love with the baron’s daughter was forbidden to marry her. On her wedding day to another, he hanged himself in Room 324—and is said to haunt it to this day.
Guests have reported:
- Doors opening by themselves
- Cold drafts and whispering voices
- Lights flickering without cause
Despite the haunting, it’s a peaceful and picturesque escape in the Swedish countryside.
9. Hotel del Coronado – California, USA
Opened: 1888
Location: Coronado Island, San Diego
This beachfront resort is famous for its beauty, its history—and its ghost stories.
Haunting Tale:
Kate Morgan checked in but never checked out. She was found dead under mysterious circumstances, and many believe her spirit still haunts Room 3327.
Paranormal reports include:
- Sudden cold spots
- Flickering lights
- Items moving on their own
The hotel remains one of California’s most iconic haunted destinations.
10. Parador de Jaén – Spain
Location: Jaén, Andalusia, Spain
Type: Castle Hotel
Built into the ruins of a medieval castle, this Parador hotel combines Spanish history with chilling ghost stories.
Spirits Include:
- A mourning woman who weeps in Room 22
- A prisoner who died in the dungeon and now moves through the halls
The hotel’s medieval ambiance adds to the sense of ancient unrest—perfect for travelers looking to time travel into Spain’s haunted past.
Final Thoughts: Would You Dare to Stay?
From castles in Europe to historic inns in North America, these haunted hotels offer more than just a night’s rest. They are gateways to centuries-old stories, mysteries, and possibly even supernatural encounters.
If you’re fascinated by the paranormal and love to explore the unknown, spending a night in one of these haunted hotels might just be the experience of a lifetime—assuming you can get any sleep.
Just remember to keep the lights on, listen closely, and never ignore a knock at the door in the middle of the night…