For every traveller, setting a budget is a crucial first step. However, some destinations offer incredible value, while others demand a significantly heavier wallet for a similar experience. According to fresh 2025 data from Hellosafe, which calculates average daily travel expenses covering lodging, meals, local transport, and attractions (excluding international flights), a list of the world's most expensive countries to visit has emerged. These are the spots where your daily spend can skyrocket, making them a choice primarily for those with a generous travel fund.
The Caribbean Dominates the Priciest List
Topping the chart is the island nation of Barbados, with a staggering average daily cost of $344. Its focus on high-end tourism, luxurious beachfront resorts, and a heavy reliance on imported goods pushes prices far above its regional counterparts. Even attempts at budget-friendly choices for hotels and dining can quickly accumulate, solidifying its appeal for the big-spender traveller.
Not far behind is the dual-island country of Antigua and Barbuda, costing visitors about $323 per day. Famous for its pristine white-sand beaches and exclusive resorts, the economy leans heavily on tourism. The scarcity of budget stays and dependence on imports keep expenses for food, transport, and activities consistently high. The prevalent culture of luxury yachting and private beach developments further inflates the daily expenditure.
Another Caribbean entry, Saint Kitts and Nevis, commands $282 per day. It markets itself as a secluded, luxury escape with limited crowds. However, the limited number of hotels and services means less competition, allowing prices to remain elevated. Accommodation and dining can consume a major part of the budget, with inter-island travel and excursions adding significant extra costs.
Grenada, often considered a quieter Caribbean gem, still makes the list at $269 daily. Challenges like limited tourist infrastructure and a need to import many goods contribute to higher prices. While smaller guesthouses exist, travellers often face inflated costs for transportation, food, and tours, especially during the peak season.
Iconic & Isolated Destinations with High Price Tags
The Maldives continues its reign as a dream destination with a premium price tag, averaging $279 per day. Its unique resort-island model, where guests stay on private islands with all-inclusive (and high-end) packages for stays, meals, and activities, is the primary driver. Costs escalate further with necessary, and often costly, transfers via speedboat or seaplane.
In Europe, Switzerland stands out as the costliest mainland destination, with daily expenses around $260. The country's high standard of living directly translates to travel costs. Visitors will find that hotels, restaurants, and even basic groceries are among the most expensive in Europe. While its efficient public transport and stunning alpine views are unparalleled, they come at a significant price.
The United States has an average daily cost of $258, pulled upward by its most famous and expensive cities like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. Expenses for accommodation, rental cars, fuel, and attraction tickets can make a substantial dent in the daily budget, particularly in major tourist hotspots and national parks.
Remote Adventures Come at a Premium
The remote Pacific nation of Micronesia also averages $258 per day. Its extreme isolation leads to exorbitant travel costs. Factors like limited flight options, scarce accommodation, and reliance on imported supplies keep daily expenses high. The high infrastructure costs in the region are ultimately passed on to the relatively few visitors it receives.
Greenland presents a unique, rugged adventure with a daily cost of $230. Its harsh climate and remote location mean almost everything must be imported, leading to steep prices. A limited supply of rooms, expensive inter-town transport, and costly food supplies are the norm. Specialised adventure tourism, such as glacier hiking and Arctic expeditions, adds considerably to the daily spend.
Rounding out the list is the United Arab Emirates (UAE), also at $230 per day. Synonymous with opulence, the UAE offers luxury resorts, fine dining, and high-priced entertainment. While budget options exist outside major cities, tourists in Dubai and Abu Dhabi typically face notoriously expensive hotel rates and costly attractions, which drive up the average daily expenditure.
Disclaimer: The figures mentioned are average daily estimates for 2025 based on data from Hellosafe. Actual costs can vary significantly based on season, individual travel style, and specific locations within a country. Travellers are advised to research and cross-check current prices and local conditions before finalising any travel plans.
