Top 10 Spookiest Hotels Around the Globe

From the Colorado lodge that inspired ‘The Shining’ to the 16th-century British inn haunted by its former proprietor, these hotels are paranormal hotspots.

Whether it’s an abandoned 1920s hotel balancing precariously on the edge of a cliff in Colombia or a boutique property in Los Angeles that still attracts celebrity clientele, these accommodations have one thing in common: They’re purportedly occupied by ghosts, making them the most haunted hotels in the world. Moreover, while most of these hotel ghosts are of the friendly Casper type, a few seem to enjoy frightening living guests. Consequently, if you’re seeking a spooky experience, consider checking in to one of these ten most haunted hotels worldwide.

01. The Stanley Hotel, Estes Park, Colorado

This historic Rocky Mountains hotel is best known for inspiring Stephen King’s novel ‘The Shining.’ In 1911, a gas leak in Room 217 led to a catastrophic explosion. Although the chief maid, Elizabeth Wilson, survived, it is believed that her spirit remains at the hotel. Along with Elizabeth, the spirits of the original owners, Flora and F.O. Stanley, are often reported. Guests may hear Flora playing the antique Steinway in the Music Room or encounter F.O. overseeing a game of billiards.

02. Hotel Chelsea, New York City

The historic Hotel Chelsea has long been a haven for poets, writers, and artists. Dylan Thomas fell into a coma during his stay in 1953, leading many to believe his spirit occupies room 206. Additionally, Sid Vicious’ ghost has been spotted roaming the hotel after the tragic death of his girlfriend, Nancy Spungen, in Room 100.

03. The Langham, London

Built in 1865, The Langham is often regarded as London’s most haunted hotel. Room 333 is notorious among those brave enough to stay there, with sightings of ghosts, including a Victorian doctor and a German prince. Additionally, patrons claim to have seen a shoeless butler and Napoleon III wandering its halls.

04. Russell Hotel, Sydney

Situated in one of Sydney’s most historic neighborhoods, the Russell Hotel is said to be haunted by a colonial-era sailor. This ghost is known for favoring certain rooms, especially number 8, where female guests report eerie encounters.

05. Dragsholm Castle, Hørve, Denmark

Dragsholm Castle is known for the tragedy of James Hepburn, the Earl of Bothwell, who was imprisoned and ultimately died there. His spirit, along with the White Lady, is said to still roam the castle grounds.

06. Nottingham Road Hotel, Kwazulu Natal, South Africa

At the Nottingham Road Hotel, the ghost of Charlotte, a woman with a tragic love story, is believed to rearrange flowers and fold guest’s clothes. Her spirit is a reminder of her intense emotions in life.

07. The Bell Hotel, Norfolk, United Kingdom

This modest inn, located on the main square of a small village, is reputed for ghostly sightings, including that of a hooded monk and the former landlady, Betty Radcliffe, who met a tragic end. Guests often report strange phenomena in Room 10.

08. Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel, Los Angeles

Guests at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel often report encounters with the spirits of celebrities like Marilyn Monroe and Montgomery Cliff. These ghosts are known to engage in playful activities such as moving objects and making noises.

09. Hotel del Salto, San Antonio del Tequendama, Colombia

Located on the edge of a cliff, Hotel del Salto is now a museum but is infamous for its haunted past. This location is surrounded by stories of suicides and the haunting of the indigenous Muisca people, who believed the falls would grant them flight and freedom.

10. Ross Castle, Killarney, Ireland

This 16th-century castle, Ross Castle is home to the tragic love story of Sabina and her lover Orwin. After Orwin drowned, Sabina secluded herself and died of sorrow. Their spirits are reported to linger, creating eerie phenomena in the castle.