Most Expensive European Countries to Visit: Top Destinations for Luxe Travelers

Ever wondered which countries make it on the list of most expensive European countries to visit? From high-end dining and luxury hotels to steep transport and attraction costs, we break down the top pricetags across the continent. Whether you're crafting a splurge-worthy trip or strategizing how to stay smart while exploring Europe, this guide is packed with insights and travel-savvy tips.

1. Switzerland

Switzerland consistently ranks among the most expensive countries to visit in Europe, thanks to high hotel rates, luxury train travel like the Glacier Express, and Michelin-starred restaurants. A dinner that costs $100 in many places hits $200+ in Zurich or Geneva. Ski and spa resorts add to the premium experience. Still, the beauty of the Alps, punctual trains, and pristine lakes make Switzerland worth the splurge—for those ready to pay for precision and luxury.

• High-end hotels and dining drive up daily expenses substantially
  
  
• Transport costs include pricey scenic train journeys and mountain lifts
  

2. Norway

Norway is one of the most expensive European countries to visit, especially in the fjords and Arctic regions. Taxis, car rentals, and grocery prices are all steep—one liter of milk can run $2.50+. Accommodation in Bergen or Tromsø often exceeds $250 per night in peak season. Still, those willing to splurge experience epic Northern Lights tours, fjord cruises, and midnight sun hikes that make Norway a once-in-a-lifetime destination.

• Daytrip and cruise costs in fjord regions can top $150 per person
  
  
• Arctic lodges and guided Northern Lights experiences are major cost drivers
  

3. Iceland

As a bucket-list spot, Iceland ranks among the most expensive European countries to visit due to travel-related costs and high local prices. Car rental, fuel, and camping fees add up fast—expect $5–7 per liter of gas and $25+ for unleaded. Dining and lodging come at a premium, though free natural attractions (waterfalls, hot springs) help balance the budget. Still, Iceland’s landscapes—from the Blue Lagoon to Jökulsárlón—justify the price tag for many travelers.

• Car rental + gas push daily travel costs to $100+
  
  
• Meals and hotels remain pricey, though wilderness tours are free
  

4. Denmark

Copenhagen is famously among the most expensive European countries to visit cities, with cocktails topping $15 and sit-down meals at $60–80 per person. Hotels operate at a high price point, thanks in part to UNESCO sites, design culture, and meatball-fuelled "hygge" restaurants. Public transport and bike rentals are reasonable if planned, but tourist traps can easily bump up costs unless you’re savvy.

• High cost of food and drink in Copenhagen downtown
  
  
• Transport passes help manage transit expenses—bike rental is efficient
  

5. Sweden

Stockholm and Gothenburg place Sweden among most expensive countries to visit in Europe, particularly for travelers chasing culture and design. Museum fees, trendy cafes, and hotel rates run steep—luxury stays often reach $300+ per night. Transit cards help—but casual dining or fika outings coe with hefty price tags. Still, the canonical combination of design heritage and archipelago cruises remains a frequent line-item on bucket lists.

• Entry fees to museums and attractions around $15–20
  
  
• Stylish hotels and apartments push accommodation budgets
  

6. Finland

Finland’s pristine nature and saunas come with premium prices: Finland is one of the most expensive European countries to visit. Hostel costs average $60–80, hotels $200+, and meals often exceed $20 for lunch. The wide-open Lapland region demands costly travel to remote lodges and activities like reindeer sleigh rides and igloo hotels—but the payoff includes Northern Lights, husky tours, and serene wilderness.

• Remote lodge stays with activities drive prices up further
  
  
• Dining and transport remain high-cost across regions
  
  

7. Luxembourg

Nestled between France, Germany, and Belgium, Luxembourg ranks among the most expensive European countries to visit thanks to its banking hub and well-heeled visitors. Even casual bistro meals cost $50+, with boutique hotels and rental cars adding to costs. And while public transport is free within the country, accommodation and fine dining dominate the travel budget. History-lovers won’t mind, given castle tours and scenic walks.

• Casual meals surpass $50; boutique hotels > $200 per night
  
  
• Free national transport—but lodging remains the biggest cost
  

8. Ireland

From Dublin to the scenic southwest, Ireland is one of the most expensive European countries to visit, especially during shoulder and summer seasons. Hotels, pub meals, and renting a car push daily budgets north of $200. Add tours to Cliffs of Moher or Ring of Kerry, and costs add up fast. Still, lively music sessions, castle stays, and rural homestays retain their charm—as long as you plan ahead or opt for guesthouses.

• Accommodations often $150+ per night in peak seasons
  
  
• Tour packages quickly reach $100-150 per person
  

9. France

Paris is known as one of the most expensive European countries to visit, especially in accommodation, dining, and transport in peak season. Even mid-range hotels hover around $250, dinner at famous cafes hits $70+, and attraction tickets like the Louvre or Versailles drive the price higher. But the value comes from arts, gastronomy, and world-class heritage—assuming you're willing to spend for access.

• Cultural attractions average $20-30 per ticket
  
  
• Boutique hotels and gourmet dinners dominate expenses
  

10. Austria

Vienna and Salzburg place Austria among the most expensive European countries to visit for classical music lovers and architecture fans. Concert tickets, cable railway tickets, and elegantly designed cafes around $60 per meal contribute to a steep daily budget. Still, history and culture—Mozart’s birthplace, lavish palaces, coffeehouse culture—deliver value worth the cost for those invested in heritage-rich travel.

• Classical concert tickets and Palace tours are premium-priced
  
  
• Accommodations near historic centers tend to be $200+ per night
  
  

Tips for Traveling Expensive Europe on a Budget

Traveling in expensive Europe doesn’t mean emptying your wallet. Here are smart strategies to visit these pricey destinations wisely:

• Choose homestays, pensions, or Airbnb outside major centers
  
  
• Buy multi-day transport passes and explore free attractions
  
  
• Reserve ahead and travel off-peak to lower both lodging and tours
  

FAQ

Which is the most expensive European country to visit?

Switzerland consistently ranks highest due to luxury costs in transportation, lodging, and dining.

Why are Nordic countries so pricey?

High wages, taxes, and remote leisure infrastructure make Norway, Iceland, Finland, and Sweden expensive.

Can I travel affordably in these countries?

Yes—with free attractions, public transport deals, cooking at your stay, and avoiding peak season, you can reduce costs significantly.