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14 Terrifying Hotels Where You’ll Check In… But Your Anxiety Might Never Check Out

Added on October 18, 2025 inFun And Facts Cards

Ever wonder if your next vacation spot might come with a complimentary ghost—or maybe a ghoul or two? It’s funny how the stars align to nudge some of us toward places where the past sticks around a little longer than your last Amazon order. Mercury might be in retrograde, but don’t blame the planets if you hear a ghostly piano playing in the night—it could just be the Stanley Hotel welcoming you. Whether it’s haunted hallways, shadowy figures, or the persistent chill of the unknown, these creepy hotels offer more than just a bed; they serve up stories that curl your spine and intrigue your imagination. So, are you brave enough to check in and see if the otherworldly guests are as eager for visitors as you are for a thrill? Buckle up—here’s a tour of some of the world’s creepiest hotels where history, mystery, and a dash of paranormal flair come together under one roof. LEARN MORE.

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There’s something irresistibly eerie about staying in a place with a mysterious past. Be it an abandoned asylum turned boutique hotel or a once-glorious establishment now echoing with ghostly whispers, these accommodations blur the line between intrigue and terror. For thrill-seekers, spending the night in one of the world’s creepiest hotels is more than just a stay, it’s an experience steeped in history and spine-chilling stories.

However, there’s more to these hotels than just creaky floors and dimly lit corridors. Some boast paranormal activity, while others lure guests with tragic histories and unsettling atmospheres. Of course, skeptics may roll their eyes at the idea of haunted hotels, but even the staunchest nonbelievers might think twice after hearing footsteps in an empty hallway.

From the infamous Stanley Hotel that inspired The Shining to lesser-known yet equally unsettling places, this list focuses on some of the creepiest hotels in the world.

1. The Stanley Hotel – Colorado, USA

Estes Park, Colorado, USA - September 22, 2019: A closeup wide-angle view of the front facade of the famous Stanley Hotel on a bright sunny Autumn day.

Image Credit: Sean Xu / Shutterstock.com

Famous for inspiring Stephen King’s The Shining, the Stanley Hotel is a must-visit for anyone fascinated by the supernatural. Guests have reported hearing phantom piano music and seeing apparitions of former employees.

While its stunning location in Estes Park offers breathtaking views, the hotel’s haunted reputation keeps adrenaline junkies coming back. Ghost tours are a regular feature, and room 217—where King stayed—remains a popular choice for those seeking a brush with the otherworldly.

2. Cecil Hotel – California, USA

Los Angeles, California, USA - April 1st, 2022: Downtown L.A. Main Street, Hotel Cecil aka Stay on Main, Haunted Hotel

Image Credit: Antonius Wolf / Shutterstock.com

The Cecil Hotel’s reputation is as grim as it gets. Known for its connection to numerous deaths and crimes, including the mysterious case of Elisa Lam, it’s no surprise this Los Angeles landmark has earned the nickname “Hotel Death.”

Though recently rebranded, the dark energy seems to linger. Paranormal investigators often flock to the Cecil, hoping to capture evidence of its tragic and unsettling past.

3. Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel – Alberta, Canada

Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, in Banff, Canada

Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

Nestled in the picturesque Canadian Rockies, the Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel is as beautiful as it is haunted. Guests have reported sightings of a spectral bride who supposedly died on her wedding day and a former bellman who still offers help from beyond the grave.

The hotel’s rich history and Gothic architecture add to its eerie charm. If you’re hunting for ghosts or simply exploring the luxurious halls, it’s a destination with plenty of spooky allure.

4. Château de Brissac – France

comprehensive overview of Château de Brissac, one of the most iconic castles in the Loire Valley, France. The image showcases the castle's majestic towers, elegant facade, and sprawling grounds

Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

Known as the “Giant of the Loire Valley,” Château de Brissac is famous for its luxurious accommodations and its ghostly resident, the Green Lady. This spirit, thought to be the wife of a former owner, has been spotted wandering the halls in a green dress.

Guests often describe an unshakable feeling of being watched. The combination of historical grandeur and spectral sightings makes this château unforgettable.

5. The Langham Hotel – London, England

London, UK - January 25 2022: The Langham Hotel, Portland Place, London

Image Credit: cktravels.com / Shutterstock.com

The Langham Hotel in London is no stranger to paranormal activity. Room 333 is reportedly the most haunted, with sightings of a ghostly Victorian man and strange temperature drops.

The hotel’s elegance contrasts sharply with its ghostly tales, creating a unique mix of luxury and fear. It’s a favorite for guests who want a touch of the supernatural with their stay.

6. Grand Hyatt – Taipei, Taiwan

Taiwan - Jan 12, 2025: Located steps away from Taipei 101, Grand Hyatt Taipei is an iconic hotel offering world-class amenities and a luxurious experience in Taipei’s bustling Xinyi District.

Image Credit: Moment Capsule / Shutterstock.com

Built on the site of a former prison camp, the Grand Hyatt in Taipei has a reputation for being haunted. Guests have reported mysterious noises and shadowy figures in their rooms.

The hotel’s management often avoids discussing its spooky side, but its eerie atmosphere continues to attract curious visitors. It’s a fascinating blend of modern luxury and lingering spirits.

7. Lizzie Borden Bed & Breakfast – Massachusetts, USA

FALL RIVER, MA –5 MAR 2022- View of the Lizzie Border murder house, now a bed and breakfast located in Fall River, Massachusetts.

Image Credit: EQRoy / Shutterstock.com

The Lizzie Borden house, infamous for the 1892 axe murders, is now a bed and breakfast where guests can sleep in the same rooms as the victims. Paranormal activity is a common report, with visitors claiming to hear footsteps and whispers.

Whether you believe in ghosts or not, staying here is a chilling reminder of one of America’s most infamous crimes. It’s an experience that lingers long after checkout.

8. Hotel Monte Vista – Arizona, USA

FLAGSTAFF, AZ USA - SEPTEMBER 1, 2022: The historic Hotel Monte Vista, built in 1927, in downtown Flagstaff

Image Credit: Framalicious / Shutterstock.com

This historic hotel in Flagstaff, Arizona, has a reputation for its ghostly inhabitants. Guests have reported seeing a phantom bellboy and hearing the sounds of a baby crying when no children are present.

The hotel’s old-world charm and haunted history make it a hotspot for thrill-seekers. Its ghostly legends continue to draw curious travelers from around the world.

9. Parador de Jaén – Spain

Ubeda, Jaen, Spain; 6.7.2023: Chapel of El Salvador (El Salvador) and the Parador de turismo de Ubeda, Jaen, Spain. Dean Ortega Palace.

Image Credit: Mialcas / Shutterstock.com

Set in a 13th-century Arab fortress, the Parador de Jaén is as mysterious as it is stunning. Guests have reported encounters with a weeping woman, believed to be the spirit of a former inhabitant.

Its remote location atop a hill adds to the eerie atmosphere. The combination of historical significance and ghostly tales makes it a compelling destination for the brave.

10. Poveglia Island Asylum – Italy

A ruined Hospital lies crumbling on the abandoned and supposedly haunted Poveglia Island in Italy.

Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

Poveglia Island, located in Venice’s lagoon, was once a quarantine station and later an asylum. Though not an operational hotel, it’s occasionally opened for brave adventurers who want to spend a night in one of the most haunted places in Italy.

The island’s dark history of death and suffering is palpable. Those who visit report disembodied voices and unexplained movements, making it a chilling location for ghost hunters.

11. Hotel Burchianti – Florence, Italy

The Duomo of Florence in Tuscany, Italy

Photo Credit: Depositphotos.com.

This charming Italian hotel is steeped in paranormal activity (not pictured here due to copyright concerns). Guests have reported seeing a ghostly maid and even feeling cold drafts despite the warm climate.

Its Renaissance-style interiors make the hauntings feel like part of the experience. It’s perfect for those who enjoy a blend of beauty and mystery.

12. Ballygally Castle Hotel – Northern Ireland

BALLYGALLY, NORTH IRELAND - DECEMBER 15, 2017 : Ballygally Castle Hotel, County Antrim, the only 17th century building still used as a residence in Northern Ireland.

Image Credit: TamuT / Shutterstock.com

Ballygally Castle Hotel is known for its resident ghost, Lady Isabella Shaw, who is said to wander the halls. Built in the 17th century, the castle’s history is rich with intrigue and tragedy.

Guests often hear unexplained noises and experience sudden chills. The hotel embraces its haunted reputation, offering ghost tours to visitors.

13. The Crescent Hotel – Arkansas, USA

EUREKA SPRINGS, ARKANSAS—APRIL 2017: Front view of the Crescent Hotel & Spa in Eureka Springs, Arkansas. Built in 1886, the Crescent Hotel is known as America’s most haunted hotel.

Image Credit: RaksyBH / Shutterstock.com

Dubbed “America’s Most Haunted Hotel,” the Crescent Hotel has a chilling past. Once a hospital for cancer patients, it’s said that some of its former residents never left.

Guests report hearing ghostly voices and seeing apparitions, particularly in the basement. The hotel’s ghost tours are a highlight for visitors seeking a fright.

14. Dragsholm Slot – Denmark

beautiful Castle of Dragsholm, Zeland, Denmark.

Image Credit: Shutterstock.com

This 800-year-old castle is known for its three resident ghosts, the Grey Lady, the White Lady, and a former prisoner. Each spirit has its own chilling tale, adding layers of intrigue to the castle’s history.

The castle now operates as a luxury hotel, blending its haunted history with modern amenities. It’s a unique spot for those seeking an otherworldly stay.


With an honors degree in financial engineering, Omega Ukama deeply understands finance. Before pursuing journalism, he honed his skills at a private equity firm, giving him invaluable real-world experience. This combination of financial literacy and journalistic flair allows him to translate complex financial matters into clear and concise insights for his readers.

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