Night Tours and Haunted Castles: Legends After Dark

A castle by daylight and a castle after dark are two different worlds. On a night tour the shadows, legends and stories of long-gone inhabitants come alive, and the atmosphere thickens until a shiver runs down your spine. Let us look at the most famous haunted castles and where to experience a night tour.

The magic of a night tour

By torchlight and lanterns every courtyard feels mysterious. Guides often bring local legends to life, and some castles add costumed characters. It is an experience for braver visitors and a great idea for an unusual evening.

The most famous legends

• The Lady of Čachtice. Čachtice is forever linked to countess Elizabeth Báthory, who, according to legend, tormented her victims at the castle.
• The ghosts of Bojnice. Bojnice Castle hosts the popular International Festival of Ghosts and is one of the best-known "haunted" châteaux in Slovakia.
• White ladies. Legends of white ladies — ghosts of unhappy noblewomen — are tied to many Slovak castles.

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Where to experience a night tour

Night and evening tours are seasonal, mainly in summer and around Halloween. They are offered by large castles such as Spiš Castle and Bojnice Castle. Dates change every year.

Tips for an evening full of suspense

• Book tickets in advance — night tours sell out fast.
• Dress warmly — a castle is cold after dark even in summer.
• Mind children's ages — some programmes may be too scary for little ones.

Where next

Find current dates on our night tours page or browse the catalogue.