From fire festivals in Scotland to vampire castles in Romania, Europe is home to some of the world’s most thrilling Halloween celebrations.
Whether you prefer spooky legends, family-friendly fun, or artistic parades, these top destinations promise an unforgettable October adventure.
Derry, Northern Ireland
Why visit: Derry hosts Europe’s biggest Halloween celebration, the Derry Halloween Festival, filling the walled city with lights, costumes, and performances.
Historical roots: The festival draws inspiration from the ancient Celtic Samhain, making it a true cultural experience.
Halloween highlight: The “Awakening the Walls” parade, fireworks, and live music across the River Foyle.
Don’t miss: Walk the 17th-century walls and take a haunted history tour.
🧛♂️ 2. Transylvania, Romania
Why visit: Step into Bram Stoker’s Dracula myth at Bran Castle, home of the legendary Vlad the Impaler.
History: Transylvania’s medieval villages and gothic castles date back to the 14th century.
Halloween highlight: The Bran Castle Halloween party and candle-lit tours.
Don’t miss: Sighişoara (Vlad’s birthplace) and Corvin Castle.
🔥 3. Edinburgh, Scotland
Why visit: Edinburgh’s old-world charm and haunted vaults make it one of Europe’s most atmospheric Halloween spots.
History: With its castle perched above medieval streets, it’s a city steeped in mystery.
Halloween highlight: The Samhuinn Fire Festival on Calton Hill — a modern revival of Celtic tradition.
Don’t miss: The Real Mary King’s Close ghost tour and the view from Arthur’s Seat.
👻 4. Amsterdam, Netherlands
Why visit: Amsterdam transforms into a stylish playground of Halloween parties and ghost tours.
History: Its canals and narrow alleys create the perfect eerie setting.
Halloween highlight: Amsterdam Halloween Festival with themed events, DJ nights, and film screenings.
Don’t miss: A ghost walk through the Jordaan or a costume canal cruise.
🎠 5. Paris, France – Disneyland Halloween Festival
Why visit: Paris offers a magical, family-friendly twist with the Disneyland Paris
Halloween Festival, running from October 1 to November 3, 2025.
History: Opened in 1992, Disneyland Paris blends French elegance with Disney enchantment.
Halloween highlight: The Mickey’s Halloween Celebration Parade, night-time shows at Sleeping Beauty Castle, and meet-and-greets with Disney villains.
Don’t miss: A stroll through Paris itself—visit Père Lachaise Cemetery, Montmartre’s eerie alleys, or simply enjoy pumpkin-themed treats in cafés across the city.
✅ Travel & Planning Tips
- Book early: October hotel and event tickets sell out fast.
- Layer up: Autumn evenings across Europe can be chilly.
- Pair culture with fun: Mix historic tours by day with Halloween events by night.
- Bring a costume: Many parades allow public participation.
From Paris’s family-friendly magic to Derry’s historic Celtic roots, Transylvania’s gothic castles, Edinburgh’s fiery tradition, and Amsterdam’s nightlife, Europe is the perfect continent to experience Halloween in every imaginable form.
So—where will you dare to celebrate this year?
