Despite having countless ideas for content, we wanted to create something truly valuable for our community. That’s why we opened a question box on Instagram and asked what topics you’d like to read about. One of the many intriguing requests was: Places to visit around the world if you’re interested in Tarot. So here we are, ready to delve deeper into this fascinating topic.
For those passionate about tarot, visiting places with historical, artistic, and mystical significance can be incredibly enriching. And, even if you can’t visit these places in person, it’s still exciting to learn about them and their importance in the history and practice of tarot!
We’ve compiled a list of top destinations around the world that every tarot enthusiast should know about. While we’ve had the chance to explore some of these locations ourselves, others remain on our bucket list.
Tarot’s passionate journey through Europe
While we’ll explore destinations in the USA and other parts of the world later, let’s start with Europe. Why? Easy peasy. Because tarot originated and has a rich history here. If you’re unfamiliar with the history of tarot, this article is a must-read – or at least a ‘must-scroll’ to check out all the destination names!
The first known tarot cards are the Visconti-Sforza deck, so our first stop is undoubtedly in Italy… Let’s go!
Italy: A Full Tarot Itinerary
So, we created a dedicated article just for an Italian tarot itinerary.
But why does Italy have so many tarot-related places? Here’s a clue: while tarot spots are scattered across Italy, quite a few are concentrated in Milan. Can you guess why?
To discover the answer, check out the full Italian tarot itinerary, kicking off in Milan.
Marseille, France
So, if you’ve read the Italian tarot tour article, you already know why Milan is so crucial in tarot history: it’s where the first deck, the Visconti-Sforza deck, was created. Now, let’s follow the historical evolution of tarot decks and move to Marseille, France.
Marseille holds a significant historical connection to the Marseille Tarot, one of the most famous tarot decks.
Michael Dummett and others have shown that the tarot pack was invented in northern Italy in the early 15th century. It was later introduced into southern France following the French conquest of Milan and the Piedmont in 1499.
The Marseille Tarot deck is renowned worldwide because it played a crucial role in spreading and popularizing tarot cards beyond noble courts.
While there isn’t a specific museum dedicated to the Marseille Tarot in the city, Marseille boasts numerous esoteric shops and bookstores where you can find tarot-related items. Exploring the city and these local shops can lead to fascinating discoveries about the Marseille Tarot’s history and significance.
Even just being in the city that gave its name to one of the most important tarot decks is a blessing!
Le Musée de la Carte à Jouer (Issy-les-Moulineaux, France)
Staying in France but heading to the northwest, we arrive in Issy-les-Moulineaux, a city located southwest of Paris along the Seine. Here, you’ll find Le Musée de la Carte à Jouer. This museum focuses on the history of playing cards, including Tarot, which were originally used for gameplay rather than divination.
The museum’s collection includes various types of cards, such as poker, tarot, and belote. It provides a comprehensive look at the evolution of tarot and playing cards, with exhibits that highlight their artistic and cultural significance.
If you’re near Paris and passionate about cards and illustrations, this museum is a must-visit. You might leave feeling inspired and overflowing with ideas about card design and symbolism.
But also Paris itself is an intriguing spot for tarot enthusiasts. Let’s see why…
Paris, France
Oh, Paris! The city of love, light, and fashion. But is it also the city of Tarot? While it might not officially hold that title, Paris certainly played a pivotal role in shaping tarot into what it is today.
It was here that modern cartomancy took root, thanks to the 18th-century occultist Etteilla. And while that was revolutionary, it’s not the only significant thing that happened in this city!
Fast forward two centuries, and you’ll find Alejandro Jodorowsky reading tarot publicly and for free at Café Le Téméraire in the Reuilly district. This café, close to his home, was a regular spot for him, especially on Wednesdays, where he would offer tarot readings to anyone interested. Though the café is now closed and Jodorowsky has stopped reading tarot, it’s fascinating to know that it all happened right here in Paris.
The city is also packed with esoteric shops, many of which are worth exploring. We recommend visiting the oldest esoteric store in the heart of Paris: La Maison de la Radiesthésie, or “The House of Divination.” Founded in 1925, this shop offers a wide range of esoteric tools, including tarot cards, classic and contemporary spell books, a vast selection of pendulums, astrology materials, and even runes.
The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic (Boscastle, England)
Traveling from near Paris to Boscastle, England, might be quite a journey, but it’s worth it for this fascinating destination. The Museum of Witchcraft and Magic houses one of the largest collections of witchcraft-related artifacts in the world. According to The Arts Society, it features over 4,500 objects and 8,000 books, including tarot cards and wands to gnostic charms and poppets (figures used for cursing).
The museum was established by Cecil Williamson, a screenwriter, director, and practicing occult expert born in Devon. After running the museum in various locations, Williamson found a permanent home for it in Boscastle in 1960.
Doyle White notes that the museum has become “something akin to a site of pilgrimage” for British witches, holding a “special and irreplaceable place in the hearts of many in the British occult community.”
It might sound like a random place to visit and a bit unusual… but isn’t it definitely an interesting spot to check out?
London, England
Since we’re already in England, we can’t miss London, which is a paradise for tarot lovers. The city is brimming with tarot spots and opportunities for readings. We’ll highlight just a few, but if you know of more, feel free to share them in the comments below (at the end of the article)!
First up, a classic spot: The British Museum. Its extensive collection includes historical tarot cards dating back to the 15th century. Visiting this museum offers a unique chance to see some of the earliest tarot cards and learn about their evolution. The museum, founded on Enlightenment ideals, covers all fields of human knowledge and is packed with fascinating exhibits.
Next, prepare your wallet for a visit to Treadwell’s Bookshop. This boutique bookshop and cultural center caters to those interested in spirituality, culture, religion, and divination. It’s a hub for tarot enthusiasts, with a team of experienced tarot readers available daily, offering a variety of approaches to suit all interests.
Another standout is The Astrology Shop. It literally shines like the stars, with its blue exterior and big golden sign. This new-age shop is perfect for building a collection of witchy accessories and tools. You’ll find astrology books, tarot cards, personal horoscopes, and even crystals.
Next on our list is Watkins Bookshop. Established over 130 years ago, it is one of the world’s oldest and leading independent bookshops specializing in esoterica. Watkins boasts one of the largest selections of spiritual and esoteric literature, as well as materials on mind, body, and spirit. And yes, they stock tarot decks too!
Anyways, London is filled with great spots for tarot enthusiasts, and it’s easy to find tarot items even outside of specialized esoteric shops…
Before we wrap up this London section, here’s a fun fact from Time Out: Did you know Kim Kardashian West, Tracey Emin, and Larry King have all visited the Psychic Sisters? This group of tarot card readers, led by Jane Wallace, has become a major name in the clairvoyant world. They gained fame when they set up shop in Selfridges and now offer sessions in London (of course!), Birmingham, and LA. It might be pricier than your average high-street tarot reading, but if it’s good enough for Kim…
Tarot enthusiast traveling in the States
With London, we’ve concluded our European trip, though we know there are countless more places to explore there. If you have any suggestions, whether it’s a charming esoteric shop in your town or a hidden gem in a city, please share them in the comments. We’re happy to collect them all!
Now, let’s change continent and visit some iconic places for tarot enthusiasts in the States.
The MET (New York, New York)
Here at Born Under Saturn, we frequently reference images from The MET Museum’s incredible collection. The MET’s website is a treasure trove of art, including some stunning examples of tarot imagery. So, it’s only fitting that this iconic museum makes our list of must-visit spots.
The MET is one of the most famous museums globally, with a permanent collection of outstanding artworks and a rotating schedule of exhibitions. These exhibitions change frequently, so if you’re planning a visit, be sure to check out if there is one on display related to tarot during your visit.
To give you an idea of what you might find, a few years back, they hosted The World in Play: Luxury Cards, 1430–1540, a fascinating exhibition. And don’t forget to explore The Met’s Watson Library. According to Maria Schurr, a senior departmental technician at the library, you may find some hidden gems there as well.
Salem, Massachusetts
If you’re heading to New York, you might also consider a trip to Boston. Nearby lies one of the most famous places for those interested in witchcraft and tarot: Salem.
Known for its association with witchcraft, Salem is a haven for those interested in the mystical arts. The town is home to many shops offering tarot readings, and you can find a variety of tarot cards and many other mystical items.
It’s not only about shops; Salem presents a diverse array of attractions. Guided tours offer immersive journeys into the city’s captivating history, ranging from the infamous witch trials to the local maritime heritage.
A little suggestion: many people who have visited recommend going to Salem in the autumn. Fall in Salem is a truly wonderful experience, with a sense of mystique and wonder overtaking the city. It’s also a magical place to celebrate Halloween.
Note: Why is Salem famous for witches? During the medieval and early modern eras, many religions, including Christianity, taught that the devil could give people known as witches the power to harm others in return for their loyalty. Between early 1692 and mid-1693, the Salem witch trials took place in colonial Massachusetts. More than 200 people were accused of practicing witchcraft—the devil’s magic—and 20 were executed.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Still staying on the East Coast, we travel south now to New Orleans. The city is renowned for its mystical traditions, and tarot is an integral part of its spiritual landscape. The Historic Voodoo Museum provides insights into the connections between voodoo and tarot, making it a unique and educational stop for tarot enthusiasts.
We could describe this place in many words, but it’s probably easier to get the vibe of the museum by simply exploring its website. Check it out here: New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum.
Once in New Orleans, the museum is just one of many attractions! Around Bourbon Street, there are plenty of spiritual shops. While some are quite touristy, the city has a deeply rooted tradition of psychics, charms, and Voodoo Queens.
A place that stands out is The Bottom of the Cup Cafe. Founded in 1929, it’s interesting to note that back then, waiters served hot tea to French Quarter women, and psychics would read their fortunes in the leaves. Today, you can still get a tea-leaf reading at this iconic spot, as well as tarot card and palm readings.
Fun fact: Marie Laveau, the legendary “Voodoo Queen” of New Orleans, is buried in Saint Louis Cemetery. Her tomb attracted so many visitors that it had to be closed to the public. Insane, right? Today, you can visit her tomb by tour only, and some say that a visit could bring favors and good fortune from beyond. Why not give it a try?
Other notable places for Tarot lovers
Staying in the Americas, but heading south, there are a couple more famous places that fit perfectly for tarot lovers:
- The Witches’ Market (La Paz, Bolivia): Known as “El Mercado de las Brujas,” this market offers a variety of mystical and esoteric items, including tarot cards. The vibrant and mystical atmosphere makes it a unique spot for tarot enthusiasts to explore.
- Mercado de Sonora (Mexico City, Mexico): Mexican markets are renowned for their vibrant colors and variety of items, from party supplies to tasty fruits and spices. However, Mercado de Sonora stands out as the “magic market.” Known for its wide range of esoteric and magical products, this market is a treasure trove for those interested in mystical practices. Here, you can find everything from healing herbs and amulets to tarot cards. It’s a lively and fascinating place to delve into Mexican esoteric culture. Note: If you go, steer clear of the section where they sell live animals. It’s honestly heartbreaking and disturbing – seeing puppies and chickens for sale like that is just gut-wrenching! This makes us feeling like crying!
- Librería El Grano de Mostaza (Lima, Peru): A well-stocked esoteric bookstore located in the heart of Lima. Here you can find a wide selection of tarot decks, esoteric books, and other tools for mystical practice. The bookstore is a reference point for esotericism enthusiasts in Peru.
- Mercado de las Brujas (Quito, Ecuador): Similar to the market in La Paz, this market in Quito offers a variety of esoteric products, including tarot cards, crystals, herbs, and amulets.
Leaving South America and changing continents again, we find another intriguing museum: the Tokyo Tarot Museum in Japan. Even just the pictures on the website are so well-organized that they radiate a sense of peace.
The destinations we’ve listed offer a blend of historical insight, artistic expression, and mystical ambiance, making them perfect for tarot enthusiasts to explore. But we know there are many more places worth visiting! If you have one in mind or have visited one, drop it in the comments.
And if you’re having trouble deciding on a place to visit, astrocartography might help you choose the perfect spot. Ever heard of it? If not, check out our article on astrocartography here.
