Halloween doesn't only have to be small children running around in ghost, Dracula, and the latest-pop-culture-craze costumes devouring fistfuls of candy. We aren't suggesting kids shouldn't enjoy All Hallows' Eve. On the contrary, we are simply offering up some adult-friendly options. After all, why shouldn't you as an adult be able to enjoy Halloween? And the best part? No costume required! So leave your mask, cape, or super hero suit at home, and see the dark, mysterious side of Paris and Rome.

Here's a list of great ways to spend Halloween in Paris as well as Rome:

Paris

Ghost Tours

Paris is the City of Light, but that doesn't mean your day has to end once the sun goes down. Hear the sordid history of murder and mayhem on our Dark Heart of Paris night tour.

You'll visit Saint-Germain-l'Auxerrois, a 7th century church where nearly 30,000 Huguenots were murdered in the Bartholomew's Day Massacre back in 1572, and hear stories of unlucky souls who were sentenced to the guillotine.

From tales of early ritual worship to the plagues of the French Revolution, there's a lot to hear and see that will both amaze and horrify.

Other Cool Things to Try

About.com did a nice job of creating a list of Halloween activities for all ages. You can see the full list here, but here are some highlights:

Halloween Parties

If you don't feel like leaving your costume at home, there are several costume parties happening in the City of Light this year. Some of the hottest clubs are throwing shindigs you won't soon forget.

Paris Cemeteries

All Saint's Day (November 1) commemorates the dead. And what better way to honor the deceased than to check out one of the many cemeteries in Paris: Père Lachaise, Montparnasse, or Montmartre. Alternatively, you can check out the Paris Catacombs which houses the bones of over six million Parisians.

Rome

Rome Ghost Tour


One of our signature tours, the Dark Heart of Rome tour is not to be missed! You'll hear stories of the ghosts, mass murders, on this nighttime tour.

We'll leave no stone unturned as we explore the hidden history behind Rome. Hear about the heretics that were burned to death, as well as how crime was deterred by hanging Virgin Mary paintings.

We promise you'll love this unique and original tour.

Fancy Dress Parties

As the site mentions, there are tons of parties to attend in expat pubs such as Abbey Theatre and Scholars Lounge. You might also try Rome's Comedy Club at Skené Risto-Teatro which offers a popular show of regulars and newcomers. They recommend booking in advance to guarantee entry.

Halloween for Adults

We think you'd agree the above tours prove you can enjoy halloween even if you aren't in grade school. Tales of intrigue abound on our ghost and mystery tours that will keep you guessing. So if you're heading to Paris or Rome this, next, or any Halloween for that matter, considering booking one of our exciting tours. You won't regret it!