From Antarctica to the Maldives, a new analysis has highlighted the world’s most expensive travel destinations for 2026, revealing where holidaymakers will need the deepest pockets.
A study by travel insurance company SquareMouth analysed travel costs based on more than 100,000 insurance sales, surveys of over 6,000 customers, and data from platforms such as Google Flights and Kayak Hotels.
The findings show that expensive travel destinations are often remote, difficult to access and associated with luxury or adventure tourism.
Polar expeditions, island escapes and wildlife safaris dominate the ranking due to high transport, accommodation and operational costs.
Greenland ranks as the most expensive destination
At the top of the list of expensive travel destinations is Greenland, where average daily costs reach €1,027.
Hotel stays during weekdays can cost around €200, while car rentals average €97 per day. Even budget dining options can exceed €30 per meal, reflecting the high cost of tourism in remote Arctic regions.
Antarctica and Maldives among top five
Antarctica ranks among the most expensive travel destinations globally, with average daily travel costs reaching €1,325 and flight costs exceeding €1,600.
The Maldives also features prominently, with daily travel expenses averaging €940 and premium hotel stays exceeding €1,000 during weekdays.
Other top-ranked destinations include the British Virgin Islands and French Polynesia, both known for high-end tourism and limited accessibility.
Full list of luxury destinations
The study lists the 15 most expensive travel destinations for 2026 as:
- Greenland
- British Virgin Islands
- French Polynesia
- Antarctica
- Maldives
- Switzerland
- Zimbabwe
- Turks and Caicos Islands
- Botswana
- Anguilla
- Saint Lucia
- Namibia
- Iceland
- Norway
- Zambia
Remote locations drive higher costs
Experts note that expensive travel destinations are typically remote locations where logistics, imports and limited infrastructure drive up prices for accommodation, food and transport.
Despite the high costs, these destinations continue to attract travellers seeking exclusive experiences, luxury stays and unique natural landscapes.
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