dark souls areas ranked by how well they function as travel destinations
The Catacombs & Tomb of Giants - The power bill has not been paid in thousands of years so your stay will be in complete darkness, surrounded by hordes of the undead. Absolutely not.
Blighttown - With the poison swamp, giant leeches, mosquitoes, and hostile wildlife, Blighttown is at the bottom of our Lordran Travel Destinations. Avoid at all costs, if you stay here you will not return.
Demon Ruins & Lost Izalith - The demon infestation pales in comparison to the blinding lava surrounding this locale. While there is good infrastructure you do have to sign a waiver relinquishing all their responsibility in the case of drowning in lava. There really is no reason to even visit here let alone stay.
Quelaag’s Domain - Arachnophobes beware, you’re literally staying in a giant spider’s web surrounded by giant parasites.
Depths - While it is cozy, the giant rat infestation, cannibals, and basilisks do put a damper on the enjoyment of staying here.
Sen’s Fortress - Lordan’s own recreation of the Home Alone Trap House, Sen’s Funhouse Fortress is more of a gimmick than anything. With death traps galore and poor customer service, only visit Sen’s Fortress if you actively hate yourself.
Painted World of Ariamis - The snow does look quite nice, however, the locale is not so nice. Skip.
New Londo Ruins -Between being completely flooded and haunted by literal ghosts, keep the Ruins of New Londo out of your holiday destination plans.
DRIVE THROUGH AND DON’T STOP
Chasm of the Abyss - If you dip below 80 at all while traveling through here, you’ll start noticing the eyes in the dark, and wondering how long they’ve been there. Do not rest, and leave as soon as possible.
Darkroot Garden & Darkroot Basin - While it may be fine for a scenic drive, the Darkroot Garden & Basin are dark and foreboding, with hostile creatures lurking within. Best not to linger.
Valley of Drakes - There’s not anything here except hostile drakes, so just run those over on your way out of town.
Oolacile Township - The locals have all become addicted to meth, which may be a bonus for some depending on your hobbies. However most of the architecture has become warped by the Abyss, so you’re better off just driving write through it.
Ash Lake - There’s really not an awful lot to see here, except perhaps the Great Hollow Tree. Not even worth the visit.
Northern Undead Asylum - A little bit run down, but there are plenty of rooms if you can tolerate the overbearing concierge and unsavory neighbors.
Kiln of the First Flame - Not quite a whole lot to do here. It is peaceful and quiet, and the barbequing Gwyn will keep you nice and warm as you stay in the ashen ruins.
Royal Woods - Minus the large, hostile dragon residing in the valley and the encroaching puddles of The Abyss, it’s actually not that bad. A decent camping spot with the nearby Oolacile Township and Sanctuary Garden to visit, it’s one of the most ideal camping spots.
Firelink Shrine - While it seems unassuming, it’s quite the hotspot for locals. With its nice views, cozy bonfire, and easy access to many areas of Lordran, it’s a must-stop for travelers.
The Duke’s Archives & Crystal Cave - The perfect place for the academic, the Duke’s Archives boasts the most extensive library is all of Lordran. On the property of the Archives is the Crystal Cave, home to the elusive Moonlight butterfly. Choose The Archives as your overnight stay (just ignore the prisoners in the basement, we are not responsible for any kidnappings that may occur).
Undead Burg & Undead Parish - The Undead Burg is a cozy town home to a historic cathedral. Stay at the Bed and Breakfast, then take a stroll and visit one of the humble merchants. Perhaps you would rather visit the Darkroot Garden located a short walk away. Either way, you will not be bored.
Anor Londo - You’ll be staying in the luxurious castle of Anor Londo. Grand architecture, spacious rooms, and a gorgeous sunset make this one of the hottest vacation spots in Lordran. You will be racially profiled by the frankly aggressive security guards, however, you can relax afterward in the Chamber of the Princess suite.
Sanctuary Garden & Oolacile Sanctuary - A cozy little grove in the lovely woods of Oolacile. What it lacks in accommodations it makes up for with a serene, and relaxing atmosphere. If you don’t mind the occasional feral cat, it is an ideal getaway location for couples.
