Vampire Travel Guide: Real Castles, Legends & Filming Locations
Walk Through Blood-Soaked Legends, Cinematic Castles, and Gothic Vampire Lore
From shadowy Transylvanian castles to the misty streets of New Orleans, vampire myths have left their bite marks all over the world. Whether you're fascinated by real legends like Vlad the Impaler or obsessed with the aesthetics of Interview with the Vampire, or Dracula, this guide takes you to the most thrilling vampire-themed travel destinations.
I specialize in fantasy travel that brings your dark daydreams to life. Ready to plan a journey soaked in folklore and a touch of the macabre? Here's where to start:
Bran Castle – Romania (Dracula’s Castle)
Location: Bran, Romania
Why Go: Widely believed to be the inspiration for Bram Stoker's Dracula, Bran Castle is perched high on a hill and brims with Gothic charm. Tour the spooky halls, secret staircases, and medieval rooms as you explore this iconic site. I had the opportunity to go in November and the cold, misty, foggy pictures will give you memories for years to look back on.
Dark Detail: The real Dracula, Vlad the Impaler, never lived here—but his legend is forever tied to this eerie fortress. There are many eerie parts of the castle that definitely give off great vampire vibes.
Sighisoara – Romania (Birthplace of Vlad the Impaler)
Location: Sighisoara, Romania
Why Go: This pastel-hued medieval town is the birthplace of Vlad the Impaler, the brutal prince who inspired Count Dracula. You can even dine in the house where he was born. Outside the town there is a great "castle" themed hotel that has a museum to Vlad that you can explore. And their dining menu includes all sorts of fun themed dracula inspired dishes, including a sausage one I won't name.
Magic Moment: Visit during their annual Medieval Festival for sword fights, street theater, and gothic vibes.
Famous Vampire Filming Locations
- Highgate Cemetery – London, UK
Filming site and inspiration for countless vampire novels and films.
- New Orleans, USA – Interview with the Vampire
Walk through the Garden District and visit the Lafayette Cemetery.
- Volterra, Italy – Twilight: New Moon
This hauntingly beautiful Tuscan town was the seat of the Volturi vampires. Visit Tuscany
Pro Tip: Check local tour options—many of these cities have dedicated vampire-themed walks and events.
Gothic Castles with Vampire Vibes
- Houska Castle – Czech Republic Known as the "Gateway to Hell," this eerie fortress was built to seal a bottomless pit. Visit Czech Tourism
- Poenari Fortress – Romania The real stronghold of Vlad the Impaler, located high in the Carpathian Mountains. Climb 1,480 steps to reach it—if you dare.
- Castle Leoch – Scotland (Outlander + Gothic fans) Dark stone, misty hills, and haunted legends await.
Vampire Tours & Haunting Experiences
Edinburgh, Scotland: Join a Vampire and Ghost Walking Tour through Old Town. There are also many dark and spooky tours, but make sure to pick the right one. Some will leave you a little disappointed.
New Orleans: Tour Anne Rice's haunts and visit the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum. For the fan of the Anne Rice novels, this is a must see.
Paris, France: Discover the Paris Catacombs and Le Musee des Vampires, a private vampire museum. The catacombs are one of the most eerie things to see and do in Europe, so if you're in Paris, then this is a must see.
Offbeat Option: Whitby, England—setting for Dracula’s arrival in the UK and home to a famous Goth Weekend festival.
How to Build a Vampire-Themed Itinerary
- Best Time to Go: Fall is ideal for foggy backdrops, cooler temps, and moody skies. While many people want to go for Halloween, remember, EVERYONE wants to go during Halloween. I went in November and while the snow can be trick in some areas, it still offers all the creepy and spooky you need for your trip.
- Where to Pair: Combine Romania with Prague and Edinburgh for a European gothic fantasy. These cities have so many great similarities, if you're a fan of Gothic Architecture, then these 3 cities should be on your list.
- Pack This: Black layers, a sturdy umbrella, a journal for your dark thoughts, and comfortable boots for cobbled vampire alleys. The weather is going to be the biggest thing you need to pack for, so make sure you dress warm.
Ready to Sink Your Teeth into Something Different?
Want to build a custom vampire itinerary or blend it with other fantasy stops like haunted castles, werewolf towns, or witchy forests?
Let me help you plan your dark fantasy adventure
Or check out my Fantasy Castle Guide for more eerie inspiration.
Travel Beyond the Veil
Whether you’re tracing Dracula’s footsteps or following cinematic shadows, this vampire guide gives you a taste of travel with a bite.
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