For European travelers dreaming of bucket-list adventures, 2026 comes with a hefty price tag. A new expense index compiled by travel insurance firm SquareMouth has ranked the world's most costly holiday destinations, and several European locations feature prominently. From the Arctic wilderness of Greenland to the Alpine luxury of Switzerland, the data offers a sobering look at what it truly costs to explore the continent's most remote and exclusive corners.
The index draws on over 100,000 travel insurance sales, surveys of more than 6,000 customers, and pricing data from Google Flights and Kayak hotels. Unsurprisingly, remote and isolated destinations dominate the top spots, as they are harder to reach, more expensive to supply, and often cater to luxury and adventure travelers. Polar and expedition trips lead the pack in cost, followed by island and beach getaways, then safari and wildlife adventures.
Greenland: The Priciest Frontier
Topping the global list is Greenland, where the average trip cost per day reaches $1,171 (€1,027). A weeknight hotel stay averages $227 (€200), while renting a car costs $110 (€97) per day. Even a modest dinner at an inexpensive restaurant will set you back $36.03 (€31.60). For European travelers, Greenland's appeal lies in its untouched landscapes and the chance to see the Northern Lights, but the price reflects its logistical challenges and limited infrastructure.
Switzerland, a perennial favorite for luxury tourism, ranks sixth globally. The Swiss Confederation's high cost of living translates directly into travel expenses, with daily costs averaging well above the European norm. Norway and Iceland also make the top 15, at positions 14 and 12 respectively, underscoring the premium on Nordic and Alpine experiences. These destinations are popular among European travelers seeking nature, skiing, and cultural heritage, but they demand a significant budget.
Beyond Europe, the British Virgin Islands, French Polynesia, Antarctica, and the Maldives round out the top five, with daily costs ranging from $756 (€663) in French Polynesia to $1,511 (€1,325) in Antarctica. The list also includes African safari destinations like Zimbabwe, Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia, reflecting the high cost of guided wildlife tours and remote lodges.
For European readers planning their next holiday, the index serves as a practical guide. Whether you're eyeing a week in the Swiss Alps or a cruise to Greenland, these numbers highlight the importance of budgeting for transportation, accommodation, and daily expenses. As the travel industry rebounds, demand for exclusive experiences continues to push prices upward, especially in regions with limited capacity.
For more insights on global travel trends, check out our feature on the world's most traveled people and their top destinations. And if you're planning a trip to less-visited European spots, our Zanzibar travel guide offers tips for European visitors seeking value.
The full top 15 most expensive destinations for 2026: Greenland, British Virgin Islands, French Polynesia, Antarctica, Maldives, Switzerland, Zimbabwe, Turks and Caicos Islands, Botswana, Anguilla, Saint Lucia, Namibia, Iceland, Norway, and Zambia.
