It is thrilling to stay in a hotel with its own ghost stories. Haunted hotels aren’t just about creepy vibes. They’re about history, mystery, and a chance to walk in the footsteps of the past. For some travelers, the idea of sharing their space with wandering spirits is spine-tingling fun. Both paranormal enthusiasts and those seeking a unique getaway love these haunted hotels. With mysterious nighttime sounds and ghostly sightings, these hotels are equal parts fascinating and chilling. If you’re ready to blend a love of travel with a touch of the supernatural, here are some of the world’s most famous haunted hotels to check into…if you dare.

The Stanley Hotel – Estes Park, Colorado, USA

The Stanley Hotel is famous for more than just its stunning location in the Rocky Mountains. This 140-room hotel is the inspiration behind Stephen King’s novel The Shining, and it’s been a magnet for ghost hunters for years. Some guests report hearing piano music from the ballroom when no one’s there. At the same time, others have claimed to see the ghost of Freelan Oscar Stanley, the hotel’s original owner, casually walking around the property. Room 217, where King stayed, has been at the center of most of the supernatural buzz. Guests who brave the night in this room have reported belongings moving on their own and unexplained flickering lights. For a mix of beauty and chills, The Stanley is a must-visit.

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel – Banff, Alberta, Canada

Tucked away in the Canadian Rockies, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel looks like a castle straight out of a fairy tale, but don’t be fooled by its charm. This grand hotel is home to several ghostly residents. The most famous is the “Ghost Bride,” a woman in a wedding dress often spotted on the grand staircase. Legend has it that she tragically fell down the stairs on her wedding day. Guests have also mentioned seeing a bellhop in a vintage uniform offering help with bags, only to vanish right before their eyes. While the hotel’s beauty is undeniable, its haunted reputation might make you think twice before wandering the halls alone at night.

Hotel Monte Vista – Flagstaff, Arizona, USA

The Hotel Monte Vista has been hosting travelers since 1927, but not all its guests have checked out. This historic hotel is known for several ghostly encounters. The most unsettling might be the “Phantom Bellboy,” who knocks on doors and announces room service…even when no staff is around. Guests have also claimed to hear disembodied voices in the night and spotted shadowy figures in their rooms. The hotel’s lounge is another hotspot for spooky activity, with reports of bar stools moving independently. The Hotel Monte Vista is full of character and ghostly surprises for visitors unafraid of a little old-school haunting. Better yet, about an hour away is Jerome, a ghost town like no other.

The Langham – London, England

The Langham is one of London’s most luxurious hotels, but it’s not just famous for its lavish accommodations. This 19th-century building is said to house multiple spirits. One of the most famous is the ghost of a man in Victorian clothing who has been seen roaming the halls. Another well-known apparition is believed to be a German soldier who haunts Room 333, reportedly the most haunted spot in the hotel. Guests who have stayed in this room have mentioned sudden temperature drops and eerie whispers. If you’re looking for a high-class haunt, The Langham is a perfect mix of elegance and the unexplained.

Ballygally Castle Hotel – Ballygally, Northern Ireland

Ballygally Castle Hotel is a unique place to stay deeply rooted in history. Dating back to the 17th century, the castle is said to be haunted by Lady Isabella Shaw. According to legend, she was locked in a tower by her husband and eventually fell (or was pushed) to her death. Today, guests have reported hearing knocking on their doors in the middle of the night or spotting a figure in old-fashioned clothing wandering the halls. The “Ghost Room,” located in the turret, is a popular stop for curious guests. Don’t be surprised if you feel a chill while exploring this historic hotel.

Château de Marçay – Loire Valley, France

The Château de Marçay is a stunning castle turned luxury hotel in the picturesque Loire Valley. Despite its glamorous exterior, it’s said to harbor a dark secret. Legend has it that a woman who lived in the château centuries ago could transform into a werewolf. After her death, guests and staff began reporting strange occurrences, including mysterious howls at night and unexplained shadows. While it might sound like something out of a fairy tale, modern visitors swear there’s something eerie about the place. If you’re intrigued by French history with a supernatural twist, this hotel is worth a visit.

Hotel Del Coronado – San Diego, California, USA

Known as “The Del” by locals, the Hotel Del Coronado is a sunny coastal escape with a darker side. The most famous ghost here is Kate Morgan, a young woman who checked in back in 1892 but never checked out. Her death remains a mystery, with reports ranging from suicide to foul play. Guests staying in her room have reported flickering lights, unexplained footsteps, and even seeing her figure near the beachfront. Though it’s a luxurious resort today, the mystery of Kate’s tragic story looms over this iconic landmark.

The Queen Mary – Long Beach, California, USA

The Queen Mary is an ocean liner that’s now permanently docked in Long Beach and turned into a unique hotel. Its haunted reputation dates back to its days as a wartime transport and luxury cruise liner. Guests and staff have reported seeing ghostly children in the pool area, shadowy figures in the engine room, and hearing phantom footsteps on the decks. Some say Cabin B340 is so haunted that it’s only available for booking under special conditions. The Queen Mary is a hotspot for paranormal enthusiasts with its long history and eerie atmosphere.

Omni Parker House – Boston, Massachusetts, USA

The Omni Parker House is Boston’s oldest hotel, and a collection of ghost stories comes with its age. The most frequent sightings are of its original owner, Harvey Parker, who’s been known to appear on the tenth floor, checking in on guests. People have also heard voices and seen mysterious orbs of light in the hallways. There’s even talk of a haunted mirror in the hotel’s old dining area. While the Omni is full of charm and history, it might also come with a few uninvited guests.

Castle Leslie Estate – County Monaghan, Ireland

Castle Leslie Estate is the place to go if you’re after a haunted hotel with a side of Irish hospitality. The Leslie family has owned the castle for generations, and some members are said never to have left. Guests have reported seeing ghostly figures, hearing footsteps, and feeling cold spots in certain rooms. The Red Room, in particular, houses the spirit of Norman Leslie, a former resident. Despite its spooky reputation, the castle also offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere, making it a favorite for curious travelers.

Hotel Castello della Castelluccia – Rome, Italy

On the outskirts of Rome lies the Castello della Castelluccia, a small castle that dates back to the 11th century. This charming hotel is said to be haunted by several spirits, including those of medieval knights and an alchemist who once resided there. Many guests have reported hearing the sound of horses outside, even when none are nearby. Some have even claimed to see ghostly figures in armor around the grounds. This castle is a hidden gem for those who love history and a touch of the supernatural.

The Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel – Los Angeles, California, USA

Located right on Hollywood Boulevard, the Roosevelt Hotel is a hotspot for old Hollywood glamour…and ghost stories. It’s often said that the spirit of Marilyn Monroe lingers in the hotel, specifically around the mirror that once hung in her suite. There are also reports of a man in a tuxedo, believed to be Montgomery Clift, walking the hallways. Guests have mentioned strange knocks, footsteps, and the feeling of being watched in certain areas. The Hollywood Roosevelt is a must-see for a mix of showbiz history and ghostly legends.