7 of the most haunted places in the world

For many, Halloween is about dressing up and going out in search of candy. For others, it’s the perfect time to feed our fascination with the paranormal. For those who fall into the latter category, we’ve put together a list of eerie locations around the world – many of which are rumoured to be inhabited by restless spirits.

Are you ready to brave the supernatural? Prepare to be spooked as we explore the darkest corners of the globe.  

The Catacombs, Paris

Buried 20 metres underground, the Paris Catacombs are a bone-chilling labyrinth filled with the remains of Parisians. The tunnels, which first served as an underground quarry during the 1300s, became a mass grave in the late 18th century when Parisian cemeteries were beginning to overflow. A haunting inscription above the entrance warns visitors: “Arrête, c’est ici l’empire de la mort!” – “Stop! This is the empire of Death!” And as you descend further underground, the air takes on a noticeable chill. Tours take place during the day – and for good reason; it’s said that the walls begin to speak after midnight.

Alcatraz Island, San Francisco

Alcatraz Island , home to the eponymous prison, is considered to be one of the most haunted places in the United States, if not the world. The unforgiving Alcatraz Prison was in operation from 1934 to 1963 and housed some of the world’s most notorious criminals, including Al Capone and George “Machine Gun” Kelly. As you explore the former penitentiary, you may well feel their lingering presence – some say you can still hear the wails of prisoners as you walk the cell blocks. For the most chilling experience of all, visit punishment cell 14D , rumoured to be haunted by a prisoner who died there.

Old City Hall, Toronto

Upon its completion in 1899, Toronto’s Old City Hall was spectacular: the largest civic building in North America and a point of pride for the city. Today, it’s serving its last few months as a municipal courthouse before its storied history is preserved as a museum. All kinds of paranormal activity have been reported here, from a poltergeist tugging at judges’ robes to the sound of moans coming from cellars that once housed incarcerated prisoners. Canada’s final hanging sentence was delivered in Courtroom 33 – believed to be the most terrifying room in the building. 

Toyama Park, Tokyo

Toyama Park is a lush park in the heart of Tokyo’s Shinjuku District, home to vast green areas, stunning cherry blossom trees, and a haunting past. By day, this park provides the perfect setting for relaxing, picnicking and exploring at your leisure. After the sun sets, however, stick around at your peril. What exactly happened in this park during the Second World War is kept under lock and key, but what we do know is that it was the location for a several medical facilities for prisoners of war – and countless tales of supernatural encounters have emerged ever since.

Ham House, London

Nestled on the banks of Richmond-upon-Thames, this handsome 17th-century red-brick mansion is the vision of William and Catherine Murray, and their daughter Elizabeth, the former Duchess of Lauderdale. As is the case with most historic buildings, the home also has its fair share of legends and ghost stories, most notably surrounding the Duchess, her dog, and a loyal servant. Elizabeth was confined to a ground-floor room towards the end of her life due to declining health; it’s said that this room is the epicentre of paranormal activity, with many a visitor claiming a “strange atmosphere”. 

Wan Chai District, Hong Kong SAR

Sandwiched between the skyscrapers of Admiralty and Causeway Bay, this Hong Kong district may not seem like a spot for spectres, but if you know where to look, they’re everywhere. In fact, Wan Chai is home to its very own haunted house, Nam Koo Terrace. Formerly a WWII military “comfort house”, it's been the setting of ghost sightings ever since. There have also been reports of supernatural sightings near Southorn playground and along Lockhart Road – local ghost tour companies tell tales of shop and venue owners burning incense outside their properties to ward off the spirits of sailors and women who once roamed these streets. 

Bran Castle, Transylvania

No list of spooky destinations would be complete without mention of Count Dracula’s castle – the dwelling of the infamous vampire dreamt up by Bram Stoker. While it has never been officially confirmed as the character’s place of residence, Bran Castle is said to be the only castle in Transylvania that fits Stoker’s description. Villages near Bran, Transylvania are steeped in folklore about "strigoi": malevolent spirits believed to come out at night to torment the living. Those brave enough can learn more about local myths and fears on the fourth floor of Bran Castle.

Not yet had your thrill – sorry, fill? Explore some of the most haunted buildings in Asia, here.

This story was originally published in October 2021 and updated in August 2024.