The Best Halloween Destinations for Key Traveller Types

Halloween season is undoubtedly one of the busiest travel periods of the year, as it brings a special charm to various destinations, both old and new. Whether your clients prefer a relaxing getaway or an exciting city adventure, there is a perfect destination for everyone to enjoy the festivities. From traditional celebrations to unique and thrilling experiences, destinations worldwide embrace the spirit of Halloween in their own remarkable ways.

Explore our suggestions below for some inspiring and thrilling destinations which are ideal for a seasonal getaway. We’ve outlined which destinations we think are perfect for key traveller types - which we cover in our article about key traveller types you should know - but it’s equally true that these destinations are ideal no matter who your clients are, for their cultural variety, attractive seasonal offerings and opportunities for any Halloween-lovers.

You can also access our vast portfolio of accommodation in our Booking Engine, which facilitates seamless booking from A-B, even if your clients want complex itineraries to make the most of this busy time of year, as a result of its integrated cross-selling functionality, and over 300,000 hotels to suit your clients every need this season.

The Experience Traveller

For travellers seeking a Halloween trip which is in keeping with the more traditional theme of Halloween as its known, with its legendary tales of ghouls, ghosts and much more, then these destinations offer perfect options to explore:

Transylvania 

Travellers can be immersed in an unforgettable journey to the captivating landscape of Transylvania, Romania, where the infamous legend of Dracula unfolds. Treat them to a thrilling tour of the renowned Bran Castle, heralded as 'Dracula's Castle', where history and folklore intertwine to create an unforgettable atmosphere.

Other notable destinations in Romania include the historic town of Sighișoara, recognised by UNESCO, as it is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, who is said to have inspired the legend of Dracula. Additionally, the haunted forest of Hoia Baciu is a popular destination for those seeking ghostly encounters and reports of UFO sightings. For travellers looking to enjoy a lively nightlife, Bucharest offers extravagant costume parties that are sure to create a vibrant atmosphere where visitors can dance until dawn.

Edinburgh

Edinburgh offers a multitude of opportunities for encountering the paranormal, whether it be through visiting the Edinburgh dungeons and exploring the intricate underground passages, or embarking on a ghost tour of the city - it’s a location with many facets and subcultures to enjoy!

A Ghost Bus experience is an exceptional opportunity to fully appreciate the city's grandeur while gaining a comprehensive understanding of its dark and eerie history. Additionally, for those who are interested in delving into the deeper roots of the holiday, the Samhuinn Fire Festival, held annually on Carlton Hill on October 31st, is a captivating ancient Celtic celebration that signifies the transition from summer to winter through a mesmerising display of flames.

Sleepy Hollow

Located just 35 miles north of the bustling New York City, Sleepy Hollow offers the perfect destination for Halloween enthusiasts. This legendary town, made famous by Washington Irving's iconic story "The Legend of Sleepy Hollow," can be easily accessed by a quick train ride from Grand Central Station. With attractions like the Great Jack O'Lantern Blaze and evening productions of the famed ghost story itself, Sleepy Hollow promises an unforgettable Halloween experience.

Salem

Halloween is an incredibly significant event, and it would be remiss not to mention one of the most historically renowned locations associated with it. With a variety of captivating activities, from grand parades and musical events to hauntingly good marketplaces and witchy city tours, Salem offers an immersive experience for those seeking to indulge in all things Halloween. Additionally, there are numerous free events available, including pumpkin-decorating, seances, and even pet costume competitions.

Halloween in Salem is a month-long celebration, true to the Halloween spirit. Visitors are highly encouraged to embrace the festivities by dressing up in their best or most frightful costumes. Both locals and guests should fully engage in the 'spirit' of the event and showcase their most elaborate and haunting appearances.

Mexico

Of course, how could we not mention the spectacular and world-renowned celebrations that occur in Mexico around Halloween? 

While there are some familiar traditions that occur on October 31st, such as parties, pumpkin carving, and trick or treating, Mexico's most significant celebration, the internationally recognised Dia de Los Muertos, or the Day of the Dead, occurs on November 1st and 2nd.

It is imperative to bear in mind that this event is not a Halloween celebration, but rather a significant cultural event that acknowledges and commemorates the spirits of the departed as they briefly return from the afterlife. From the vibrantly adorned streets and vibrant costumes to the enchanting music and delectable cuisine, not to mention the local customs that vary from region to region, this is a time of joyful remembrance and celebration for the deceased.

Visitors have a multitude of opportunities to participate in this cultural event, with various forms and locations to choose from. A common and traditional way to celebrate is by attending cemeteries and adorning the graves of loved ones and friends with vibrant marigolds (cempazúchitl). Additionally, the town of Mixquic offers an unmissable experience, boasting centuries-old traditions for celebrating Dios de Los Muertos. In this pre-Hispanic town, the main event is the Alumbrada - the illumination of graveyards with thousands of candles.

Additionally, one of the most famously haunted locations in Mexico is the Isla de las Munecas, the Island of the Dolls, a chinampa of the Laguna de Tequila located in the channels of Xochimilco, south of the center of Mexico City. With a tragic past attached to it, this location has drawn many visitors over the years, seeking to determine whether the dolls are indeed haunted by the spirit of the little girl said to have motivated the creation of this island.

The Conscious Traveller 

For conscientious travellers who wish to engage with local communities or enjoy a tranquil, nature-oriented getaway, we have curated a selection of ideal destinations. 

Slovakia

Orava Castle, situated by the banks of the Orava River in Slovakia, is renowned for its role as the eerie setting in the classic vampire film Nosferatu. Exploring the castle through a guided tour is the perfect opportunity to appreciate its rich history with its 154 rooms and approximately 660 stairs. For those who have a passion for horror and want to indulge in the world of ghosts and vampire legends, while also minimising the impact on the environment, this destination is ideal. In addition, Slovakia presents numerous breathtaking hiking trails and beautiful towns and villages to discover, such as Bratislava and Košice as well as the High Tatras mountains.

Belgium

Consider offering your clients a seasonal hike in the stunning Hoge Kempen National Park; a nature reserve offering breathtaking heathlands, woodlands, and unique landscapes. Additionally, during Halloween, the park organises a one-of-a-kind Halloween hike, allowing guests to explore its deep, mystical depths and trails.

The Caves of Han in Han-sur-Lesse provide an authentic and unique experience for travellers who seek to embrace the natural world. As night falls, visitors have the opportunity to explore the extensive network of underground tunnels, immersing themselves in the mysterious atmosphere and discovering the essence of 'Hanlloween'.

In addition, Belgium can be easily reached by train from various locations in mainland Europe and the UK, making it an ideal destination for environmentally conscious travellers located in Europe in particular, who are seeking a memorable Halloween experience.

The City-Loving Traveller

Japan

Halloween has become a significant event in Japan, despite its relatively recent adoption by the culture. It is now one of the biggest events in the calendar. Unlike other countries, Halloween in Japan does not include traditional activities like trick or treating. However, this provides Halloween-lovers with a unique opportunity to fully embrace the terrifying, cute, and eccentric aspects of this celebration.

During Halloween in Japan, the focus is on showcasing creativity through costumes. It is very common for visitors to witness events such as zombie runs, flash mobs, and street parties, which add to the vibrant atmosphere as the city immerses itself in paranormal celebration.

Roppongi Hills and Shibuya in Tokyo are known for hosting some of the most vibrant and lively street parties and celebrations. The energetic atmosphere at Shibuya Crossing and Center Gai attracts a large crowd, and the festivities continue well into the early hours. In Ikebukuro, a prominent center for Japan's anime culture, the costumes revolve around manga and anime characters, adding a unique twist to the celebrations. Additionally, party trains are a common sight in Japan, especially in its bustling cities, adding to the excitement of the festivities.

Paris

Paris, renowned for its elegant luxury and rich artistic culture, also boasts a more macabre side and is known in particular for its vast cemeteries serving as the final resting places for cultural figures such as Oscar Wilde, Frédéric Chopin, and Edith Piaf.

A fantastic way to celebrate Halloween would be to visit the Paris Catacombs. With approximately six million intricately arranged skeletons creating a chilling labyrinth beneath the city, this location offers an exhilarating and historically significant experience for the holiday. Père Lachaise Cemetery is also widely regarded as the most haunted cemetery in Paris, and for those seeking a truly terrifying encounter, Le Manoir de Paris is considered the city's most haunted house, featuring themed rooms and immersive encounters with actors.

For a more family-friendly and enjoyable experience with beloved characters, Disneyland Paris is a highly sought-after destination during this season. Each year, the park transforms into a festive wonderland and hosts spectacular parades that cater to all ages. Make sure not to miss out on thrilling attractions like the Tower of Terror and the Phantom Manor! Due to high demand, tickets for Disneyland during Halloween sell out quickly, so we strongly advise visitors to book well in advance to ensure they can experience the magic.

New Orleans

Travellers to New Orleans will undoubtedly be delighted by the abundance of Halloween parties. However, this culturally and historically significant destination also provides an exceptional chance to delve into its more macabre traditions. We highly recommend that you encourage your clients to take advantage of the opportunity to visit unique museums such as the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum, the Museum of Death, or Bloody Mary's Haunted Museum. Furthermore, they can deepen their understanding of the city's dark past by participating in a guided tour.

The Mortuary is a must, as a historic 150-year-old Victorian mansion that has been transformed into a haunted house. Additionally, travellers should witness the incredible Krewe of Boo Halloween Parade, featuring captivating marching bands and performers along an impressive 4.8km route. 

London

For luxury travellers seeking a metropolis teeming with eerie and petrifying tales of the past, look no further than the hauntingly spectacular city of London! With its array of macabre attractions and vibrant festivities, London caters to the desires of your urban-loving clientele.

In addition to the numerous parties and celebrations that cater to Halloween enthusiasts throughout the night, there are also alternative options such as the renowned Ghost Bus Tour and the opportunity to delve into London's gruesome past at the London Dungeons. Haunted and mysterious walking tours, visits to historically haunted pubs, and explorations of iconic landmarks like Hampton Court Palace and the Tower of London provide insights into their dark and illustrious histories; Hyde Park, while tranquil on the surface, also offers London’s largest pet cemetery for a more macabre sight-seeing activity. There are countless opportunities in the UK’s capital!

The Luxury Traveller

New York City

During Halloween New York City becomes a vibrant hub of glittering parties, ghoulish extravaganzas, and enchanting night-time celebrations, creating the perfect opportunity to indulge as the veil between worlds grows thin and mystery fills the air. From the renowned Greenwich Village Parade, attracting large celebratory crowds, to strolling through the streets of the Upper East Side adorned with breathtaking, over-the-top decorations, the city is a feast for the senses at this time of year.

Orlando

For a thrilling and unforgettable experience, Universal Studios' Halloween Horror Nights is a must for travellers of any age group.. This event offers your clients the opportunity to confront their deepest fears as iconic movie sets are transformed into horrifying mazes and scare zones. With each park offering unique and age-appropriate events, there's something for everyone to enjoy during the Halloween season.

Disney World and Universal Studios are widely recognised as some of the most popular Halloween destinations in the world, and undoubtedly warrant a generous budget to fully immerse visitors in its lavish and themed offerings. They are an ideal choice for discerning travellers seeking a luxurious, family-friendly experience that pulls out all the stops. It is crucial to advise clients to secure their bookings well in advance, as Halloween 2024 will arrive sooner than they think…

Aspen

Located in the picturesque mountains of Colorado, Aspen offers a Halloween experience that belies its small size, making it an ideal destination for travellers seeking a luxurious but seasonal getaway. Families can partake in a delightful trick-or-treat event at the local firehouse, while those seeking a more exclusive affair can celebrate all night at the private Caribou Club, which opens its doors to all guests only on this special occasion. Naturally, costumes are a must! 

For those who enjoy traditional Halloween activities, a ghoulish walking tour followed by a meal at one of Aspen's exceptional dining establishments is a fantastic option for celebrating the holiday!

Did you know that we run promotions throughout the year, that allow our clients to maximise the opportunities that come along with seasonal events like Halloween? Offering incentivising prices to travel during these busy periods is one of the best ways to capitalise on demand, and ensure you’re not losing potential customers to your competition.