In the following article, we take a look at 5 of the world’s most expensive places to visit, which despite their high prices are still worth the money. We have listed destinations that are must-sees for all world travelers, that are unique and offer plenty to see and do.
What makes these places expensive is almost always the same. The flights to these places are expensive, the hotels, restaurants and just about everything else is expensive. They are high priced places, but they are so high-quality for tourists that many people visit them despite the price.
The list includes three locations in Europe, one in America and one in Asia. There are hiking destinations, cities, winter and summer destinations, so it’s quite a diverse list. The common point is that they are all difficult to get out of an average budget. So here are the 5 most expensive places worth visiting.
1. Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Dubai is a very fast growing metropolis in the Middle East and the largest city in the United Arab Emirates. Dubai is amazing, it really did become our absolute favorite on our first trip and proves it with each subsequent trip that it’s our favorite for a good reason.
Dubai is a true tourist paradise, full of the best attractions and activities. Dubai is home to the world’s tallest building, the largest Ferris wheel, the largest flower garden and much more. Dubai has something to offer almost every tourist: the fascinating Arab culture, the wonderful beaches where you can swim in winter, the breathtaking skyscrapers with their magical views, the world-class infrastructure and the multicultural offerings, such as gastronomy. All this while being one of the safest countries in the world.
The only problem is that the UAE is expensive. We haven’t managed to organize a cheap trip here yet, but many people do (we don’t know how). Prices are above Western European levels. Even with average, non-luxury needs, plan plenty of budget when organising a trip to Dubai.
We also have a list of Dubai’s top 10 attractions, which you can find below.
2. Iceland
Iceland is an island country in the North Atlantic Ocean, on the boundary between the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates. Iceland is a favorite destination for many travelers, and for good reason. This unique, fairytale world is home to stunning natural wonders: volcanoes, bubbling geysers, natural hot pools, crevasses, glaciers and unspoilt beauty. Iceland is a paradise for photographers and hikers. There are few places in the world where you can experience and photograph so many photogenic wonders in such a small space.
People say that Iceland is the land of fire and ice. The term fire refers to Iceland’s frequent volcanic activity and its famous geysers and thermal baths, while ice refers to its long winters, its glaciers and ice caves, which are also important tourist destinations in Iceland.
Despite its small size, Iceland is one of the most extreme, but also one of the most amazing places we have ever visited. You can really experience almost every natural phenomenon and wonder in Iceland. Aurora Borealis, countless waterfalls, stunning mountain peaks, glaciers, ice caves, geysers, active volcanoes…. etc.
However, one of the big disadvantages of Iceland is that it is an expensive destination. Hotels are expensive, car hire is horribly overpriced and restaurants are also very expensive. If you plan on camping and buying meals in shops, your trip may be slightly cheaper, but it’s still a much more expensive place than most places in Europe.
We have already written other articles about Iceland with the important things to know, you can find them by clicking here.
3. USA
Everyone in the world knows the name USA. Its culture has spread almost everywhere, its films, music, artists, entrepreneurs and internet platforms are world famous. The US is one of the largest countries and most influential economies in the world.
However, in addition to its popularity, it also has a high price level. No matter which of the popular destinations you choose: the West Coast, New York or Florida… the US is an expensive destination.
Because it is so far from most of the world, there are long and expensive flights to the US. The high local prices mean that hotels and entrance fees are expensive, and car hire is terribly expensive. Because the distances between attractions in the USA are often large, it is almost always necessary to rent a car when traveling to the USA. What is quite affordable are restaurants and fuel, but unfortunately this is not enough. Prices are generally higher than in Western Europe. Overall, it is very difficult to organize a low-cost trip to the USA.
4. Dolomites, Italy
The Dolomites are one of the most beautiful places in the world, and we’re not the only ones to say so. The Dolomites are one of the best hiking destinations in the Alps. In winter the Dolomites are famous ski paradise, but we think Dolomites are at their best in summer.
Huge alpine pastures with flowers, grazing animals, sunshine and fresh mountain air. And all of this can be admired by traveling along the wonderful mountain roads and passes. Italian and Southern Tyrolean dishes are available in one place, which can provide a fantastic culinary experience.
However, the pleasures of the Dolomites come at a price. It is the most expensive place in Italy, and even in the region. In particular, hotels are expensive, but restaurants and shops are also not cheap. Given the limited number of shops and the limited availability of restaurants, prices are high. The prices of hotels are high because of the many tourists. And if you have to use a mountain lift or a private toll road on your way, they are also quite expensive. The only thing you don’t usually have to pay for in the Dolomites is the entrance fee, because all the natural attractions are free.
In terms of value for money, we can’t say that you’ll get the best services in the Dolomites, because we think it’s quite expensive. But the natural beauty will compensate for the high prices.
5. Switzerland
Switzerland is a popular European destination, visited by many tourists every year despite its small size. Switzerland is perfect choice especially for mountain lovers. The Swiss Alps are one of the most beautiful parts of the Alps, full of lakes, waterfalls, small mountain streams, interesting small towns along the lakes and unique mountain peaks all over the country.
Its most famous cities are Zurich, Bern and Geneva, all close to mountains, lakes and other sights in the region. Around Zurich there are several large lakes and smaller towns, as well as the Appenzell Alps, a popular destination for hikers. Not far from Bern, the capital, are the famous Oeschinensee and the town of Lauterbrunnen. And Geneva, on the shores of the popular Lake Geneva, is also well worth a visit. In the countryside, along the Swiss-Italian border, you’ll find the world-famous Matterhorn peak and the town of Zermatt, which offers some of the best hiking experiences in the area.
However, Switzerland has a big disadvantage – its price. In Switzerland, price levels are basically high. In particular, hotels are very expensive, perhaps one of the most expensive in Europe. Restaurants and shops are also expensive, although they are of very good quality. Switzerland is therefore one of the more difficult destinations to afford.
One way to save money when traveling in Switzerland is to stay in a campsite or caravan. There are not many entrance fees for mountain excursions. Cable cars are expensive, but fit people can save on that in some cases. Alternatively, if you’re looking for cheaper restaurants, fast food or shop bought food, it will also be cheaper than the local, expensive restaurants.
To read more about Switzerland, you can find our article about the 5 best places to visit in Switzerland by clicking here.
So that’s our list of the 5 most expensive places in the world that, despite their high prices, we think are worth the money. If you liked the article, read our other articles where we also give you more details about the countries on the list. In particular, Dubai, the Dolomites and Iceland are our favorites from the list, and we’re happy to share all the information we’ve gathered during our travels.
