Spooky Halloween tours around the world
CGTN

Halloween is just around the corner. Instead of having ghosts and goblins roam the streets and haunt your doorstep in the hope of some treats, you can go to the spookiest destinations around the world.

Frankenstein Castle, Germany

The House of Frankenstein is believed to have first built a castle at the site in the mid 13th century. While the castle's name reminds some of English novelist Mary Shelley's 19th-century book about the man who creates a monster, historians are skeptical that it actually inspired the author. It has become a favorite haunt for Germans celebrating Halloween, a tradition that has grown increasingly popular in Europe in recent years.

The crumbling castle, located 35 kilometers south of Frankfurt, has been staging spooky festivals since 1977 featuring monsters, gore and spine-chilling live shows.

On Saturday night, about 2,500 revelers – many in costumes – flocked to the castle, where they were entertained by 130 actors.

An actor depicting Frankenstein poses in the medieval Frankenstein Castle. /VCG Photo

An actor depicting Frankenstein poses in the medieval Frankenstein Castle. /VCG Photo

Salem, Massachusetts, the U.S.

Though tragedy struck Salem, Massachusetts, over 400 years ago, the essence of "witch hysteria" still lingers in this small town. 

The Witch Trials of 1692 accused more than 150 people of witchcraft and condemned 19 to the death. Visitors can check out the full story behind the "Witch City" at the Salem Witch Museum and then venture onto the haunted grounds themselves. 

Because of its history, Salem has also become a world-renowned meeting place for enthusiasts of the dark and creepy, which has helped create a whole new generation of spookiness.

Besides, the autumn view of Salem is spectacular. The falling red leaves and chilly winds are a perfect backdrop for Halloween.

Costumed people dressed as witches walk though the street in Salem, Massachusetts. /VCG Photo

Costumed people dressed as witches walk though the street in Salem, Massachusetts. /VCG Photo

Edinburgh, Scotland

A history of gruesome military attacks, tortures and executions have given the infamous Edinburgh Castle its reputation for being one of the most haunted places in the country, and the city itself has been called the spookiest place in Europe. Take a stroll down "The Royal Mile" and meander on your own through eerie narrow lanes that lead off the main street, or join one of several guided tours through Greyfriars cemetery or the Edinburgh Vaults beneath the city streets for a frightful, yet historical, experience.

If you think you've got the guts to face anything, head to Edinburgh, Scotland. 

Whole view of Edinburgh, Scotland. /VCG Photo

Whole view of Edinburgh, Scotland. /VCG Photo

Transylvania, Romania

One of the most coveted party spots for Halloween is Dracula's Castle. This legendary torturer's reputation for being sadistic is well-known throughout Europe. And even though he wasn't believed to be a vampire, his inhumane thirst for blood was the impetus behind Bram Stoker's Dracula. Prince Vlad's remains disappeared mysteriously from the castle, leaving many questions unanswered, but visitors can tour this landmark to feel the remnants of Dracula's wrath. 

If you're lucky, you can attend a haunted Halloween party.

Dracula's Castle, Transylvania, Romania. /VCG Photo

Dracula's Castle, Transylvania, Romania. /VCG Photo

(With input from Reuters.)