18 Most Expensive Countries to Visit

Exploring the world is a dream shared by many, yet some destinations stand out for their luxurious appeal and higher costs. Countries like Switzerland, Norway, and Iceland offer breathtaking landscapes but also come with a premium price tag. From the bustling city-state of Singapore to the cultural richness of Japan, these destinations promise unforgettable experiences but require careful budgeting. As travelers plan their adventures, understanding the expenses associated with visiting these top-tier destinations becomes essential for a smooth and enjoyable journey. So, let’s dive into the list of the most expensive countries to visit and discover what makes them so enticing yet financially demanding.

Switzerland

Visiting Switzerland can be quite expensive due to its high cost of living. Accommodations in cities like Zurich and Geneva can range from $200 to $500 per night for mid-range hotels, while dining out may cost around $50 to $100 per meal. Activities such as skiing in the Swiss Alps or exploring charming villages add to the overall expense, with transportation costs being notably high, especially for scenic train journeys. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $3,500 – $6,500.

Norway

Norway is known for its picturesque landscapes and vibrant cities, but it’s also one of the most expensive countries to visit. Accommodation prices in Oslo and Bergen can start at $150 per night for budget options, while meals at restaurants range from $30 to $80. Activities like fjord cruises and outdoor adventures contribute to the overall cost, although public transportation can be relatively affordable. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $2,500 – $4,500.

Iceland

Iceland’s natural beauty, including waterfalls, geysers, and glaciers, makes it a popular yet pricey destination. Accommodations in Reykjavik can cost $100 to $300 per night for hotels, while dining out may range from $20 for casual meals to $100 for fine dining experiences. Tours to attractions like the Blue Lagoon and Golden Circle are additional expenses to consider. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $2,000 – $3,500.

Denmark

Denmark, particularly Copenhagen, offers a blend of historic charm and modern attractions. However, the cost of visiting can be steep, with hotel prices starting at $150 per night and rising significantly for upscale accommodations. Meals at restaurants range from $30 to $80, and exploring attractions like Tivoli Gardens or taking canal tours adds to the overall expenses. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $2,500 – $4,500.

Australia

Australia’s vast landscapes and vibrant cities come with a considerable price tag for visitors. The accommodations in Sydney and Melbourne can range from $100 to $300 per night for mid-range hotels, while dining out may cost $20 for casual meals to over $100 for upscale dining experiences. Activities like visiting the Great Barrier Reef or exploring the Outback are significant expenses. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $2,500 – $4,500.

New Zealand

New Zealand’s natural beauty, from mountains to beaches, attracts many travelers, but it’s important to budget accordingly. In cities like Auckland and Queenstown, accommodations start at $100 per night for budget options, and dining out can range from $20 for casual eateries to $80 for fine dining. Outdoor activities like bungee jumping or hiking also contribute to the overall cost. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $2,000 – $3,500.

Singapore

Singapore is a bustling city-state known for its modernity and diverse attractions, but it’s also one of the most expensive places to visit. Accommodations here start at $150 per night for budget hotels, with a dining cost of $10 for street food and $50 for restaurant meals. Exploring attractions like Gardens by the Bay or Sentosa Island adds to the expenses. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $2,000 – $3,500.

Japan

Japan offers a unique blend of tradition and innovation, but it can be pricey for visitors. In Tokyo and Kyoto, accommodations start at $100 per night for budget options, while meals at restaurants range from $10 for casual dining to over $50 for upscale experiences. Activities like visiting temples or attending cultural events are additional expenses to consider. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $2,000 – $3,500.

United States

The United States is a vast country with diverse attractions, but visiting can be expensive. New York and San Francisco accommodations start at $150 per night for budget hotels, while you may spend around $100 for fine dining and $20 for fast food. Entrance fees to attractions like national parks or theme parks also contribute to the overall cost. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $2,000 – $3,500.

United Arab Emirates (specifically Dubai)

Dubai is known for its luxury shopping, modern architecture, and vibrant nightlife, but it’s also a high-cost destination. You may start at $100 per night accommodation for budget options while dining out can range from $10 for street food to $50 for restaurant meals. Activities like visiting the Burj Khalifa or desert safaris are significant expenses. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $2,000 – $3,500.

Luxembourg

Luxembourg, with its rich history and picturesque landscapes, can be an expensive destination to explore. Here, your accommodations start at $100 per night for budget options and around $100 for dining out. Exploring castles, museums, and outdoor activities adds to the overall expense. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $2,000 – $3,500.

Qatar

Qatar, with its modern skyline and cultural attractions, can be an expensive destination to visit. Accommodations in Doha start at $100 per night for budget options, while dining out can range from $10 for street food to $50 for restaurant meals. Exploring attractions like Souq Waqif or taking desert tours adds to the overall cost. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $2,000 – $3,500.

Netherlands

The Netherlands, known for its tulip fields, windmills, and vibrant cities, can be pricey for travelers. In Amsterdam and Rotterdam, hotel accommodations start at $100 per night for budget options, while you may spend $15 for casual meals to $60 for fine dining. Activities like visiting museums or cruising the canals are additional expenses. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $2,000 – $3,500.

France

France’s rich history, art, and cuisine make it a popular yet expensive destination. Paris and Nice start at $150 per night accommodation for budget options, while dining out can range from $20 for casual eateries to $100 for Michelin-starred restaurants. Visiting iconic landmarks or wine regions adds to the overall cost. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $2,500 – $4,500.

Belgium

Belgium, with its medieval towns and culinary delights, can be a moderately expensive destination. You might spend around $80 for accommodations in Brussels and Bruges per night for budget options, and then pay $15 for casual meals to $50 for fine dining when you dine out. Exploring historic sites or indulging in chocolate and beer tastings are additional expenses. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $1,500 – $2,500.

Germany

Germany offers a mix of historic charm, modern cities, and scenic landscapes, but it’s generally affordable for visitors. Accommodations in Berlin and Munich start at $80 per night for budget options, while eating in restaurants may cost $40 per meal and street food can range from $10. Visiting castles, museums, and beer gardens are additional costs. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $1,500 – $2,500.

Canada

Canada’s vast wilderness, cosmopolitan cities, and friendly locals make it a desirable yet moderately expensive destination. Toronto and Vancouver accommodations start at $100 per night for budget options, while dining out may cost $15 for casual meals to $50 for fine dining. Activities like exploring national parks or taking scenic drives add to the overall cost. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $2,000 – $3,500.

United Kingdom

The United Kingdom, known for its historic landmarks, cultural institutions, and scenic countryside, can be an expensive destination to visit. Dining out can range from $15 for pub meals to $60 for upscale dining, while the accommodations in London and Edinburgh start at $150 per night for budget options. Exploring castles, and museums, and attending theater shows are additional expenses. Estimated cost for a week-long visit: $2,500 – $4,500

This article originally appeared on Rarest.org.

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