The 10 Spookiest Hotes in the World

There is a thrilling allure to staying in a hotel that comes with a touch of the paranormal. Some hotels have gained reputations for strange occurrences, eerie atmospheres, and ghostly encounters. For those looking for more than just a place to sleep, these haunted hotels offer an unforgettable, spine-tingling experience. Each hotel on this list has its own haunting stories, but all promise to send chills down your spine.

1) The Stanley Hotes, Colorado, USA

The Stanley hotes, located in Estes Park, Colorado, is the most famous haunted hotel in the world. Built in 1909, it is known for inspiring Stephen King’s novel The Shining. Guests often report hearing eerie noises, such as the sound of a piano playing itself. Others have witnessed flickering lights and ghostly apparitions, particularly in the hotel’s old ballroom. Despite its haunted reputation, many guests embrace the spooky atmosphere, joining ghost tours to learn about the hotel’s paranormal history.

2) The Queen Mary, California, USA

The Queen Mary, a retired ocean liner docked in Long Beach, California, offers a truly unnerving experience. Since its days as a cruise ship, the Queen Mary has been home to numerous ghost stories. Guests have reported seeing apparitions in the ship’s old engine room, hearing disembodied footsteps, and encountering cold spots throughout the ship. Many claim to have felt the presence of former passengers who died aboard the ship. The Queen Mary offers guided ghost tours and an immersive paranormal experience for those brave enough to explore its haunted halls.

3) The Myrtles Plantation, Louisiana, USA

The Myrtles Plantation, located in St. Francisville, Louisiana, is often referred to as one of the most haunted homes in America. Built in 1796, this plantation has a tragic history, including tales of murder and betrayal. Ghost sightings and eerie noises are common, with guests frequently reporting encounters with a spirit known as Chloe, who is said to be a former slave. The plantation offers a unique opportunity for history and ghost enthusiasts to stay in a beautifully restored home while experiencing its haunted history.

4) The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, Alberta, Canada

The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel, nestled in the Canadian Rockies, combines luxury with a ghostly presence. This grand hotel, built in the late 1800s, has long been a subject of ghost stories. Guests have reported seeing the ghost of a bride who tragically died in a fall at the hotel. Other visitors claim to have encountered a mysterious bellman who appears to guide them but then vanishes without a trace. The hotel’s picturesque setting and haunted past make it a must-see for those seeking a ghostly adventure.

5) The Langham Hotel, London, England

The Langham Hotel in London is one of the oldest and most iconic hotels in the city, and it comes with its share of ghostly lore. Since its opening in 1865, guests have reported numerous paranormal experiences. The most famous apparition is that of a German prince who committed suicide in the hotel. People have also reported hearing phantom footsteps in the hallways and seeing the ghost of a Victorian-era woman wandering the corridors. The hotel’s eerie atmosphere makes it a popular destination for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers alike.

6) The Burchielli Hotel, Venice, Italy

Venice is a city known for its rich history and mysterious ambiance, and the Burchielli Hotel is no exception. The hotel, located in the heart of Venice, is said to be haunted by the spirits of former guests. Guests have described encounters with strange apparitions in the hotel’s hallways and rooms. Some have claimed to feel an eerie presence late at night, particularly near the old elevator shaft. The hotel’s history and location, near ancient canals and narrow streets, add to its mystique, making it a fascinating yet eerie place to stay.

7) The Pitti Palace Hotel, Florence, Italy

The Pitti Palace Hotel, located in Florence, Italy, is housed in an ancient palace once belonging to the powerful Pitti family. The hotel’s centuries-old structure adds to its haunted reputation. Guests often hear the sounds of footsteps echoing through the hallways, even when no one is around. Some report seeing figures that appear and disappear in the hotel’s ornate corridors. The hotel’s opulent past, combined with the ghostly legends, makes it a compelling place for those seeking a taste of Italy’s haunted history.

8) The Cecil Hotel, Los Angeles, USA

The Cecil Hotel in Los Angeles is infamous for its dark and disturbing history. Over the years, it has been linked to a number of tragic events, including suicides, murders, and disappearances. Guests have reported hearing unsettling noises, such as knocking or scratching at their doors, and witnessing shadowy figures moving through the halls. One of the most notorious occurrences is the mysterious death of Elisa Lam, whose body was found in the hotel’s water tank. The Cecil Hotel’s dark past and eerie atmosphere continue to draw visitors seeking a true haunted experience.

9) The Hotel del Coronado, California, USA

The Hotel del Coronado, located on the coast of California, is a stunning Victorian-era hotel with a ghostly reputation. Built in 1888, the hotel has long been the subject of paranormal tales. The most famous ghost story is that of Kate Morgan, a woman who died under mysterious circumstances at the hotel. Guests have reported hearing her footsteps and seeing her ghostly figure near the hotel’s staircases and windows. The Hotel del Coronado combines luxury with an eerie atmosphere, making it one of the most haunted hotels on the West Coast.

10) The S.K. Royal Hotel, Mumbai, India

The S.K. Royal Hotel, located in Mumbai, India, is known for its chilling reputation among locals. This hotel has gained fame for its paranormal activity, particularly in its oldest rooms. Guests have reported hearing voices and experiencing cold spots in the hotel’s corridors. The most chilling accounts involve guests encountering a figure in a dark suit, who vanishes when approached. Despite its spooky reputation, the hotel’s location and charm make it a popular choice for those looking for a truly unnerving stay.

Staying in the world’s spookiest hotels

Staying in any of these haunted hotels is not for the faint of heart. Each offers an immersive experience that combines history, luxury, and an undeniable touch of the supernatural. While some guests may find comfort in the grandeur and beauty of these hotels, others will leave with spine-chilling memories. Whether you’re a seasoned ghost hunter or simply seeking a thrill, these spooky hotels will provide a stay that is both unique and unforgettable.