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If you think ghost tours are just for Halloween, then you’re clearly not embracing the newest travel trend—noctourism.
This dark, spine-chilling pursuit is for those who prefer to explore the world when the moon is high and the spirits are out.
Ghost tours at night aren’t just about wandering dark alleys with a flashlight; they’re about experiencing history with a dash of dread and maybe even a chuckle or two.
From haunted cemeteries to ancient castles, these tours will have you questioning whether you’ve seen a shadow move or just bumped into a tree.
1. The Edinburgh Ghost Tour, Scotland
If you like your history served with a side of spooky, the Edinburgh Ghost Tour is right up your alley. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill walk through cobblestone streets. Oh no. You’ll be delving into Scotland’s dark past, from plague-ridden graveyards to haunted vaults under the city.
Your guide will regale you with stories of tortured souls and ghostly apparitions, all while walking through the very places where these tales took place. It’s equal parts thrilling and educational, with a dash of local humor thrown in. If you’re into the type of spookiness that gives you chills but also makes you laugh nervously, this one’s for you. Click here to see Top Edinburgh Ghost Tours on Viator >>
2. New Orleans Vampire Tour, USA
Who doesn’t love a good vampire story? New Orleans, with its rich history of voodoo and mystery, is the perfect setting for a vampire tour. But don’t think you’re getting the Twilight treatment—this isn’t some glittery teen drama. Instead, you’ll be wandering the French Quarter, learning about vampires who allegedly roamed the city hundreds of years ago.
The tour combines chilling tales with a bit of dark humor, and the guides, true to the city’s vibrant culture, make the experience as entertaining as it is eerie. In the world of noctourism, this tour is a must—vampires at night are far more intriguing than they are by daylight. Click here to see top Ghost & vampire tours on GetYourGuide >>
3. The London Ghost Walk, England
London’s a big city. You’ve got the Tower of London, the British Museum, and plenty of history. But what about the ghosts? The London Ghost Walk takes you on a nighttime adventure through the heart of the city’s eerie past. Picture yourself wandering dark alleys and past centuries-old pubs, hearing about executions, murders, and just about every ghost that’s ever haunted the city.
The guides mix fact with a bit of humor—after all, who doesn’t love a good “horror” story with a punchline? You’ll hear the tales of the victims of Jack the Ripper, and maybe even hear the rustle of something—perhaps a restless spirit—behind you. Click here to see Top London Ghost Tours on Viator >>
4. The Paris Catacombs, France
Let’s be honest—if you want a ghost tour that’s going to make your heart race, the Paris Catacombs are where it’s at. Beneath the streets of Paris, there’s a literal city of the dead, with bones stacked from floor to ceiling. It’s dark, it’s eerie, and if you’re not careful, you might just lose your sense of direction (and your wits).
The Catacombs are famous for their chilling atmosphere, and while it’s not strictly a “ghost” tour, the entire experience is filled with stories about the restless souls of those who were buried there. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to wander through an actual tomb in the middle of the night, this is your chance. Click here to see top Paris Catacombs tours on Viator here >>
5. The Ghosts of Williamsburg, USA
Williamsburg, Virginia, is charming during the day. At night? It becomes a city of mystery. The Ghosts of Williamsburg tour will take you through the beautifully preserved streets of this colonial town, but this isn’t a history lesson in the usual sense.
Instead, you’ll be hearing about the spirits who never quite left, from ghostly children playing in the streets to haunted taverns. The guides are experts at weaving in humor, making this tour both entertaining and spine-chilling. You’ll get a mix of lighthearted fun and genuine ghost stories—a perfect blend for those who enjoy a bit of both. Click here to see Top Williamsburg Ghost Tours on Viator >>
6. The Queen Mary Dark Harbor, USA
Now, if you’re looking for a truly terrifying experience, the Queen Mary Dark Harbor in Long Beach, California, is where you want to be. The Queen Mary, once a majestic ocean liner, now sits docked as one of the most haunted ships in the world.
This isn’t your average tour. As you walk the decks, you’ll be immersed in the ghostly lore of the ship, with live actors, dim lighting, and a whole lot of creepy sounds to keep you on edge. It’s the kind of experience that might make you second-guess your decision to step aboard, but that’s what makes it so thrilling. If you’re into the type of noctourism that involves being genuinely terrified, this is your dream tour.
7. The Ghost Tour of York, England
York, with its medieval streets and ancient walls, is one of England’s oldest cities—and it’s also one of the most haunted. The Ghost Tour of York takes you on a dark and winding journey through the city’s ghostly past.
From the infamous ghosts of the Shambles (a narrow, crooked street) to the spirits that supposedly haunt York Minster, this tour is a perfect mix of chilling tales and historical facts. You’ll get plenty of ghostly history to chew on, along with a few laughs thanks to the local guides who inject a bit of humor into the proceedings. Just don’t get too comfortable—York’s restless spirits aren’t known for being shy. Click here to see best Ghost & Vampire Tours in York on Tripadvisor >>
8. The Bonaventure Cemetery Tour, USA
The Bonaventure Cemetery in Savannah, Georgia, is famous for its haunting beauty. By day, it’s serene and picturesque, with moss-draped trees and elegant headstones. By night? It’s downright spooky. The cemetery’s nighttime ghost tour takes you through its most eerie spots, where you’ll hear about the spirits that supposedly still roam among the graves.
Savannah itself is one of the most haunted cities in America, and Bonaventure is one of the best places to experience its ghostly energy. The tour guides mix humor and history, so while you’ll be scared out of your wits, you’ll also laugh at the strange but fascinating stories of Savannah’s past. Click here to see the tour >>
Final Words
If you’re into travel that comes with a side of fright, you’re going to love these ghost tours. They mix the thrill of noctourism with enough history and humor to keep things entertaining.
Sure, you might jump at the occasional rustle in the bushes or a flicker of movement in the corner of your eye, but that’s all part of the fun. After all, what’s a good vacation without a little adventure and maybe a bit of ghostly company?