Top 10 Costliest Countries to Travel in 2026 — 10 Days Expenses Guide
Traveling the world is an exciting adventure — but some countries can seriously test your budget. Whether it’s luxury experiences, high accommodation costs, or pricey dining, certain destinations are world-renowned for being expensive.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explore:
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The top 10 costliest countries to travel in 2026
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Estimated expenses for a 10-day trip
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Breakdown of costs (accommodation, food, transport, activities)
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Tips to manage expenses without sacrificing experience
1. Switzerland — The Jewel of Europe
Switzerland consistently ranks as one of the most expensive travel destinations due to its pristine landscapes, high living standards, and premium services.
10-Day Cost Estimate
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation (10 nights) | $2,500–$4,000 |
| Food & Drinks | $800–$1,200 |
| Local Transportation | $300–$500 |
| Activities & Tours | $900–$1,500 |
| Miscellaneous | $300–$500 |
| Total | $4,800–$7,700 |
Highlights: Zurich, Lucerne, Interlaken, Jungfraujoch
Why expensive: Switzerland has high wages and costs for services, especially in dining and hotels. Train travel, while scenic, isn’t cheap either.
2. Iceland — Land of Fire and Ice
Iceland’s dramatic landscapes — geysers, waterfalls, glaciers — draw travelers from around the globe. But Iceland’s remote location and high import costs make it pricey.
10-Day Cost Estimate
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $2,000–$3,500 |
| Food & Drinks | $900–$1,300 |
| Car Rental & Fuel | $600–$1,000 |
| Activities & Tours | $1,000–$2,000 |
| Miscellaneous | $300–$500 |
| Total | $4,800–$8,300 |
Highlights: Golden Circle, Blue Lagoon, Vatnajökull National Park
Why expensive: High hotel rates, limited public transport outside cities, and costly guided tours.
3. Japan — Tradition Meets Modern Luxury
Japan’s blend of ancient culture and cutting-edge cities makes it a bucket-list destination. While not uniformly expensive, big cities drive up overall costs.
10-Day Cost Estimate
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $1,800–$3,200 |
| Food & Drinks | $700–$1,000 |
| Transportation (JR Pass) | $350–$500 |
| Activities & Experiences | $600–$1,200 |
| Miscellaneous | $200–$400 |
| Total | $3,650–$6,300 |
Highlights: Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Mount Fuji
Why expensive: Premium hotel prices and high tech entertainment venues, but food and transport can be affordable if planned well.
4. Norway — Fjords and Northern Lights
Norway’s natural beauty doesn’t come cheap. Expect high prices, especially in cities like Oslo and Bergen.
10-Day Cost Estimate
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $2,200–$3,800 |
| Food & Drinks | $900–$1,300 |
| Transportation | $500–$800 |
| Activities & Tours | $800–$1,500 |
| Miscellaneous | $300–$500 |
| Total | $4,700–$7,900 |
Highlights: Oslo, Bergen, Geirangerfjord, Tromsø
Why expensive: Norway often tops global cost-of-living indexes. Outdoor tours and fjord cruises add up fast.
5. Australia — Sun, Surf, and Higher Costs
Australia’s vast landscapes and unique wildlife make it irresistible, but traveling between regions can be costly.
10-Day Cost Estimate
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $1,800–$3,200 |
| Food & Drinks | $800–$1,200 |
| Domestic Flights | $300–$800 |
| Activities & Tours | $700–$1,300 |
| Miscellaneous | $300–$500 |
| Total | $3,900–$7,000 |
Highlights: Sydney, Great Barrier Reef, Uluru, Melbourne
Why expensive: High food costs and long distances between attractions.
6. Denmark — Scandinavian Sophistication
Denmark is known for high quality of life, clean cities, and a cycling culture — but also high travel prices.
10-Day Cost Estimate
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $1,900–$3,200 |
| Food & Drinks | $800–$1,100 |
| Transportation | $350–$600 |
| Activities & Tours | $500–$900 |
| Miscellaneous | $200–$400 |
| Total | $3,750–$6,200 |
Highlights: Copenhagen, Aarhus, Danish Riviera
Why expensive: Eating out and accommodation prices are high relative to many other European countries.
7. United Arab Emirates — Luxury in the Desert
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are synonymous with luxury hotels, fine dining, and extravagant experiences — so expect high costs!
10-Day Cost Estimate
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $2,000–$4,000 |
| Food & Drinks | $900–$1,400 |
| Transportation | $300–$600 |
| Activities & Experiences | $1,000–$2,000 |
| Miscellaneous | $300–$500 |
| Total | $4,500–$8,500 |
Highlights: Burj Khalifa, Desert Safaris, Luxury Malls, Yas Island
Why expensive: High hotel demand and luxury experiences like skydiving and dune buggies.
8. Singapore — Futuristic and Flashy
Singapore is spotless, safe, and technologically advanced — but that also means high travel prices.
10-Day Cost Estimate
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $2,000–$3,800 |
| Food & Drinks | $800–$1,200 |
| Transportation | $200–$350 |
| Attractions & Tours | $600–$1,200 |
| Miscellaneous | $200–$400 |
| Total | $3,800–$6,950 |
Highlights: Marina Bay Sands, Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa
Why expensive: Hotels and tourist attractions have premium pricing, though local hawker food is cheaper.
9. New Zealand — Scenic but Spending
New Zealand’s landscapes are stunning, yet remote travel, adventure sports, and accommodation drive up the budget.
10-Day Cost Estimate
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $1,800–$3,200 |
| Food & Drinks | $800–$1,100 |
| Transportation | $500–$800 |
| Activities & Tours | $700–$1,600 |
| Miscellaneous | $300–$500 |
| Total | $4,100–$7,200 |
Highlights: Queenstown, Milford Sound, Rotorua
Why expensive: Scenic tours and adventure activities like bungee jumping, glacier hiking, and boat cruises add up.
10. France — Paris and Beyond
France is one of the world’s most visited countries. Paris, the Riviera, and wine regions are unforgettable — and often costly.
10-Day Cost Estimate
| Expense Category | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | $2,000–$3,600 |
| Food & Drinks | $900–$1,500 |
| Transportation | $300–$600 |
| Activities & Tours | $700–$1,300 |
| Miscellaneous | $300–$500 |
| Total | $4,200–$7,500 |
Highlights: Paris, Loire Valley, Provence, French Riviera
Why expensive: Paris hotel and restaurant prices are among the highest in Europe.
What Drives High Travel Costs in These Countries?
Understanding why these destinations are expensive helps you plan better.
1. High Accommodation Rates
Luxury hotels and even mid-range lodgings tend to be pricey in popular tourist destinations.
2. Transportation Costs
Flights, trains, ferries, and cars — especially in islands or large countries — add up fast.
3. Food and Dining
Fine dining, international cuisine, and high quality standards mean higher bills.
4. Activities & Tours
Unique experiences like glacier hikes, luxury safaris, fjord cruises, or skydiving are memorable — and costly.
5. Strong Local Currencies
Some countries have strong currencies (like Swiss Franc, Norwegian Krone), increasing actual costs for foreign travelers.
Budget Hacks Even in Expensive Countries
Even expensive destinations can be enjoyed without overspending.
Book Early
Flights and hotels usually get cheaper when booked months ahead.
Try Local Food Markets
Street food and local eateries are often affordable and delicious.
Use City Passes
Many cities offer passes that bundle attractions at discounts.
Stay Outside Major Centers
Hotels near downtown can be expensive. Consider suburbs or short train rides.
Travel in Shoulder Season
Avoid peak summer or holiday months to get better prices.
Quick Comparison: Cost for 10 Days
| Country | Estimated 10-Day Budget (USD) |
|---|---|
| Switzerland | $4,800–$7,700 |
| Iceland | $4,800–$8,300 |
| Japan | $3,650–$6,300 |
| Norway | $4,700–$7,900 |
| Australia | $3,900–$7,000 |
| Denmark | $3,750–$6,200 |
| UAE | $4,500–$8,500 |
| Singapore | $3,800–$6,950 |
| New Zealand | $4,100–$7,200 |
| France | $4,200–$7,500 |
Most expensive overall: United Arab Emirates and Iceland
Best balance (experience vs cost): Japan and Denmark
Final Tips for 2026 Travelers
Traveling to expensive countries doesn’t mean spending without limits. It means planning with precision.
Know your travel style — budget, comfort, or luxury?
Research costs per city/region — some cities are way costlier than others.
Use travel tools — flight alerts, hotel price trackers, tour discounts.
Local experiences = unforgettable memories — not always the most expensive ones.