Countries in Northern and Western Europe consistently rank as the most expensive due to high living costs, strong currencies, and premium travel infrastructure. Below are the most expensive countries to visit from the USA, based on flight prices, accommodation, food, transportation, and daily expenses.
1. Switzerland
Switzerland is famous for stunning Alpine scenery, clean cities, and world-class transportation, but it is also one of the most expensive countries in the world.
Average costs:
- Flights from USA: USD 900–1,300 round trip
- Accommodation: USD 180–300 per night (mid-range hotel)
- Food: USD 25–40 per meal
- Transportation: USD 20–40 per day
- Daily expenses: USD 250–350
2. Norway
Norway’s dramatic fjords and natural beauty attract travelers, but high wages and taxes make travel costly.
Average costs:
- Flights from USA: USD 900–1,400
- Accommodation: USD 170–280 per night
- Food: USD 30–45 per meal
- Transportation: USD 20–35 per day
- Daily expenses: USD 230–330
3. Iceland
Iceland is popular for road trips, waterfalls, and volcanoes, but almost everything is imported, driving prices up.
Average costs:
- Flights from USA: USD 800–1,200
- Accommodation: USD 160–250 per night
- Food: USD 25–40 per meal
- Transportation: USD 25–50 per day (especially car rental)
- Daily expenses: USD 220–320
4. Denmark
Denmark, especially Copenhagen, is known for design, cycling culture, and high living standards.
Average costs:
- Flights from USA: USD 900–1,300
- Accommodation: USD 170–260 per night
- Food: USD 20–35 per meal
- Transportation: USD 15–30 per day
- Daily expenses: USD 210–300
5. Sweden
Sweden offers stylish cities and nature escapes, but prices remain high compared to most European destinations.
Average costs:
- Flights from USA: USD 850–1,250
- Accommodation: USD 150–240 per night
- Food: USD 20–35 per meal
- Transportation: USD 15–30 per day
- Daily expenses: USD 200–280
6. Finland
Finland is peaceful, modern, and nature-focused, but costs reflect its high standard of living.
Average costs:
- Flights from USA: USD 900–1,400
- Accommodation: USD 150–230 per night
- Food: USD 18–30 per meal
- Transportation: USD 15–25 per day
- Daily expenses: USD 190–270
7. Luxembourg
Despite its small size, Luxembourg has one of the highest incomes in Europe.
Average costs:
- Flights from USA: USD 900–1,300
- Accommodation: USD 160–260 per night
- Food: USD 20–35 per meal
- Transportation: USD 10–20 per day (public transport is often free)
- Daily expenses: USD 200–290
8. Ireland
Ireland’s charming cities and countryside come with rising costs, especially in Dublin.
Average costs:
- Flights from USA: USD 700–1,100
- Accommodation: USD 160–250 per night
- Food: USD 18–30 per meal
- Transportation: USD 15–25 per day
- Daily expenses: USD 190–270
9. United Kingdom
London is one of the most expensive cities in the world, heavily influencing UK travel costs.
Average costs:
- Flights from USA: USD 700–1,200
- Accommodation: USD 180–300 per night (London)
- Food: USD 20–35 per meal
- Transportation: USD 15–30 per day
- Daily expenses: USD 220–320
10. France (Especially Paris)
Paris is iconic but costly, especially for hotels, dining, and attractions.
Average costs:
- Flights from USA: USD 750–1,200
- Accommodation: USD 170–280 per night
- Food: USD 20–35 per meal
- Transportation: USD 10–20 per day
- Daily expenses: USD 210–300
Tips for Budgeting in Expensive Countries
- Travel during shoulder seasons to save on flights and hotels
- Stay outside city centers and use public transportation
- Eat at local bakeries, supermarkets, and casual cafés
- Book attractions and transport passes in advance
- Track daily spending to avoid surprises
What to Bring and Prepare
- Credit cards with no foreign transaction fees
- Mobile internet (eSIM) for navigation and bookings. Using an eSIM is usually cheaper than using a physical travel SIM card. It’s also simpler and more efficient because you don’t need to swap SIM cards. Plus, Eskimo eSIM now offers a free 500 MB global data trial!
- Comfortable walking shoes to reduce transport costs
- Weather-appropriate clothing (especially for Nordic countries)
- Pre-booked accommodations and transport tickets (usually cheaper when booked online)
FAQs
Are these destinations still suitable for budget-conscious travelers?
Yes. With careful planning, choosing affordable neighborhoods, and prioritizing free or low-cost activities, travelers can manage expenses effectively.
Is cash widely accepted in these expensive countries?
Most places prefer cashless payments, especially in cities, but carrying some local currency is useful for small shops or rural areas.
How far in advance should travelers plan trips to these countries?
Planning several months ahead helps secure better flight prices, accommodation deals, and attraction reservations, especially during peak seasons.
