Every year, there are different compilations of the most luxurious and most expensive cities in the world. How expensive a city is does not necessarily equate to its level of luxury, opulence and sophistication. This article discusses the 10 most luxurious cities in the world for a luxury splurge. These are the cities you can go to for the highest level of urban decadence.
A luxury lifestyle requires a unique approach to life by enjoying the best things in life with the highest level of comfort and elegance. The most luxurious cities in the world intentionally and adequately cater to the needs of discerning travellers.
The top luxury cities in the world are where you can experience world-class accommodation and hospitality facilities (hotels and resorts), award-winning and rated culinary scenes (posh restaurants and fine dining), top-of-the-world shopping centres, exclusive recreational and entertainment amenities (beaches, private clubs and sports), ritzy lifestyle services (e.g. concierge and personal shopper) and endearing city adventures like helicopter tours or shuttle.
Apart from a high-class standard of living with an abundance of luxury options, a core characteristic used in curating this highlight includes the level of serenity, safety, culture and unique style offered by these cities. Check out The Defining Model of Luxury Travel to have an insight into what makes an authentic luxury destination or travel endeavour.
Several of the cities in this list are icons and epitome of global urban luxury.
The Most Luxurious Cities in the World for a Luxury Splurge
1. Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Dubai, the “City of Gold” is undoubtedly on top of the list of the most luxurious cities in the world with record-setting luxury landmarks like the world’s tallest building – the Burj Khalifah, the world’s only 7-star hotel – Burj Al Arab, the largest shopping mall in the world – The Dubai Mall, the fastest police cars in service – Bugatti Veyron, and world’s highest infinity pool.
International travellers spend close to $30 billion in Dubai every year, this makes Dubai one of the foremost cities in the world where people go for a luxury splurge.
There are wide range of luxury activities you can experience in Dubai from ritzy desert safaris to super-yacht cruises, shop till you drop with a personal shopper in one of the high-end malls, private air charters, helicopter tours, private hot air balloon rides, supercar tours, Sonara Camp Sunset and Dinner experience and glamping.
Many guests to Dubai are drawn to three (3) major luxury characteristics of the city – high-end shopping, world-class hospitality and entertainment and top-of-the-world lifestyle.
The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates and BurJuman Centre houses a large collection of renowned global luxury brands and international designers for guests’ luxury shopping delight in this Arabian Urban Paradise.
Indulge in some of the world’s most extravagant hotels and resorts in Dubai such as the Burj Al Arab, Atlantis, the Palm, the Amani Hotel in the Burj Khalifa, Bulgari Resort Dubai, Raffles The Palm Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Palazzo Versace and One&Only The Palm Dubai.
Read Also: The Best of the Arabian Gulf Region – Countries, Cities and Attractions! And Why You Should Visit?
2. Paris, France
Paris, popularly known as the “city of lights” or the “city of love” is the capital of France as well as one of the renowned fashion capitals of the world. The city has ranked among the top-five most visited cities in the world several times consecutively Travelness CNN.
Paris is one of the most luxurious cities in the world for a memorable luxury splurge. There are several decadent things to indulge in, posh experiences to relish and exclusive places to visit in Paris.
Book a royal retreat at Le Meurice, shop for high-end brands at Le Bon Marche or the Galeries Lafayette, savour Parisian culinary excellence at Le Cinq, experience the Louvre on a private tour, explore the Champs-Elysees and its array of designer boutiques and luxury stores and indulge in a VIP tour of the Palace of Versailles.
Paris is home to global luxury fashion brands like Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Hermes, Dior, Cartier and Givenchy. A city of art, culture and unparalleled gastronomy.
The city’s excellence in glamour and elegance is not limited to luxury shopping and landmark tours alone. You can go for a high-class wine-tasting tour, enjoy a glass of Champagne at the Eiffel Tower with a spectacular vista of the city, embark on a private boat cruise along the iconic Seine river with a lavish lunch or dinner, and go on a guided tour of the city in a vintage French car.
Hotel Shangri-La, Le Meurice, Hotel The Peninsula, Hotel Plaza Athenee, Four Seasons Hotel George V, Mandarin Oriental, Le Bristol Paris, Hotel De Crillon, a Rosewood Hotel, and Prince De Galles, A Luxury Collection Hotel are among the most ritzy luxury hotels in Paris, the “City of Love”!
Be sure to learn some basic French on or before your visit to Paris.
Must Read: The Best 15 Top Luxury Hotels in France
3. Singapore
Singapore is a vibrant city-state and island nation in Southeast Asia known for its upscale shopping districts, marina, high-rises, luxury hotels, and decent well-developed urban environment. According to the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU), Singapore is the most expensive city in the world for the year 2023.
The city-state is a global financial centre with a highly developed and prosperous economy. Singapore is an ultra-modern state with a sleek and sophisticated blend of high-tech, innovative architecture and refined Sino-Malayo traditions.
Singapore is known for the Merlion (the national symbol of Singapore), the Singapore Changi Airport which has been consistently voted as the best airline in the world for a fifth year in a role by Skytraxx, the Marina Bay Sands – the most iconic building in Singapore, the Sentosa Island, the Universal Studios and the city’s urban parks and nature reserves.
Revel in luxury in Singapore and splurge in one of the most luxurious cities in the world.
Check into the Presidential Suite of one of the city’s luxury hotels including The Fullerton Hotel and St Regis or the Chairman Suite at the Marina Bay Sands. Book a helicopter ride, indulge in a VIP experience at the Universal Studio, and relish incredible delicacies and menus in Singapore’s Michelin-starred restaurants such as Odette, Zen, Waku Ghin and Les Amis.
Aside from the must-not-missed luxury shopping spree in Singapore, you should also bliss out at renowned Singaporean Spas and Wellness centres like the Auriga, Banyan Tree Spa, the Raffles Spa and COMO Shambhala Urban Escape.
Complete your luxury splurge in Singapore with a visit to Sentosa Island and don’t forget to sample some authentic Singaporean foods like Chili Crab, Nasi Lemak, Indian Rojak, Bak Kut Teh and Otak-Otak.
4. Istanbul, Turkey
Historically known as Constantinople and Byzantium, Istanbul is the economic, cultural and historic capital of Turkey. It is also the largest city in Turkey, straddling the Bosporus Strait and lying in both Europe and Asia.
According to Euromonitor International’s annual ranking and index of the Top 100 City Destinations, Istanbul was the most visited city in the world in 2023 for international arrivals JaneResture BBC T+L. The city welcomed 20.2 million people ranking ahead of London (18.8 million), Dubai (16.8 million) and Paris (15.5 million). This exudes the role and significance of Istanbul not only as a luxury destination but as a potent tourist spot for all classes of travellers and guests from around the world.
Istanbul, as one of the most luxurious cities in the world for a luxury splurge, is known for its Grand Bazaar and endless shopping opportunities. Attractions such as the Hagia Sophia, the Galata Tower, the Topkapi Palace, Turkish Baths, the Istiklal Street, the Camlica Mosque, and the city’s Water Cisterns are delights to guests.
There are unlimited and world-class luxury amenities and things to explore, experience and enjoy in Istanbul.
Lodge in one of the luxurious hotels of Istanbul like the Four Seasons Hotel Istanbul at the Bosphorus, Raffles Istanbul, Shangri-La Bosphorus, Ciragan Palace Kempinski, and St. Regis Istanbul. Savour scrumptious menus by Master Chefs at Mikla, Ulus 29, Vogue Restaurant and Bar, Nusr-Et Steakhouse and Sunset Grill and Bar.
For your ultimate Istanbul luxury shopping checklist, splurge unreservedly at Istinye Park, the Grand Bazaar, Zorlu Centre, Kanyon and Akmerkez. These are the best and most upscale shopping facilities in Istanbul.
You can also book an exclusive yacht cruise along the Bosphorus Strait complemented by a lunch or dinner or experience a range of treatments and wellness services offered at any of Istanbul’s luxury spas.
Round up your Istanbul luxury trip by visiting and revelling on one or more of Istanbul Prince Islands which can be the Buyukada island, Oludeniz Lagoon or the Kinaliada Island.
Check out The Ultimate Luxury Travel Guide to Istanbul for an extensive highlight of the best luxury attractions of Istanbul.
Recommended Read: The 10 Best Luxury Hotels in Europe
5. Milan, Italy
Milan is a radiant city in the Lombardy Region of Northern Italy. The city globally recognized as the fashion and design capital of the world is the richest city and most prosperous manufacturing and commercial city in Italy. It is also one of the most luxurious cities in the world.
Milan is a city of art and culture with modern energy and vibes adorned with famous landmarks of which the most important are the Duomo (the most significant symbol of the city), Sforzesco Castle, Teatro Alla Scala (the most famous opera house in the world [Source], and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II (the world’s most luxurious indoor shopping mall).
With a wide range of activities and things to do in Milan, you can book an exclusive tour of the Castello Sforzesco, marvel at the Duomo, explore the neighbourhood of Navigli, experience the QC Terme Milano and relish authentic Milanese cuisines like the Risotto Alla Milanese, Cotollea alla Milanese, Minestrone Milanese, Gorgonzola and Ossobuco.
If you are lucky enough to be in Milan around February or September, you shouldn’t miss the bi-annual weeklong Milan Fashion Show. This is one of the premier fashion shows on the planet where you will find flagship stores and displays from the world’s biggest fashion brands like Armani, Prada, Versace, Gucci and Dolce & Gabbana – one of the best things Milan is known for!
And even if you are not an art lover, sighting and admiring works of Leonardo da Vinci like the famous “Last Super” painting completes your Milan experience. Milan is not only for luxury shoppers, it is also for art lovers and those seeking a unique Italian luxury experience.
Wrap up your Milan luxury visit with a lavish day trip to Lake Como and experience the ethereal charms of the Italian lakes.
Read Also: Best Things to Do and Places to Visit in Italy | The Ultimate Guide
6. Hong Kong, China
Hong Kong is a Special Administrative Region of the People’s Republic of China (China) known as the city with the most skyscrapers in the world and it has consistently been ranked as one of the world’s most expensive cities to live in 2022 2023.
As one of the most luxurious cities in the world for a luxury splurge, Hong Kong is known for its luxury shopping districts including Central, Tsim Sha Tsui and Causeway Bay. This is where you will find the flagship stores of famous global brands, offering authentic high-end fashion, jewellery, electronics and household materials.
Top attractions in Hong Kong are Victoria Park, Victoria Harbour, the Big Buddha, Avenue of Stars, Ancient Temples and Hong Kong Disneyland and the Hong Kong Observation Wheel.
Hong Kong also boasts an array of world-class luxury hotels and Michelin-starred restaurants that serve the accommodation, hospitality and culinary needs of high-class guests of the city.
Luxury hotels such as St. Regis Hong Kong, Four Seasons Hotel Hong Kong, Grand Hyatt Hong Kong, The Hari Hong Kong, Rosewood Hong Kong, The Murray, Mandarin Oriental Hong Kong, The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong, Island Shangri-La and The Peninsula Hong Kong are among the most lavish luxury hotels in Hong Kong. These hotels offer incredible views of the city, flawless services and top-notch amenities.
Who doesn’t like excellent food and exquisite culinary settings? If fine and world-class dining delights you, Hong Kong is graced with several Michelin Starred Restaurants managed by Master Chefs including Loaf On, Sai Kung Sing Kee and Chuen Kee Seafood in Sai Kung, Kam Fai and Hyde Park Garden in Lei Yue Mun, and Chinese Legend and Hoi Tin Garden in Tuen Mun.
Hong Kong is indisputably one of the top cities where luxury travellers go to splurge in East Asia.
7. Zurich, Switzerland
The largest city in Switzerland, Zurich, for several years now and still counting has been rated consecutively as one of the most expensive cities to live in the world by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) annual rankings.
Explore the most famous spots and attractions in Zurich like the Twin Towers of Grossmunster, Uetliberg (Zurich’s iconic lookout), Bahnhofstrasse (the most exclusive shopping street in Zurich), Sechselautenplatz (the Square), The Old Town, the Limmat River upon which the city is built and the famous Lake Zurich.
Zurich is considered one of the most luxurious cities in the world due to its high standard of living, economic prosperity, charming natural environment and high-end amenities.
This immaculate Zurich city boasts several international banks, financial institutions, and multinational companies (corporations).
Zurich is a European paradise, especially for luxury shopping. Indulge in some high-end shopping at the world-known Bahnhofstrasse where you will find goods from renowned international luxury brands.
Absorb Zurich’s industrial district Zurich-West and check out some of the best restaurants, bars, galleries and quirky boutiques in the neighbourhood.
Check in at any of the amazing 5-star luxury hotels in Zurich like The Dolder Grand, Park Hyatt Zurich, Storchen Zurich, Widder Hotel, La Reserve Eden au Lac Zurich and Zurich Marriott Hotel for idyllic luxury accommodation in Zurich.
Join or book a private boat cruise on Lake Zurich, one of the best ways to relax, explore the iconic lake and appreciate its spectacular environs.
Recommended Read: The Top 10 Best Luxury Destinations in Europe
8. London, England (United Kingdom)
London is a unique city due to its historical significance as the Capital of the British Empire and its modern role as one of the economic capitals of Europe and among the expensive and most luxurious cities in the world.
The Capital of England, London is mostly known for its fashion, financial and cultural significance. The city is a global financial hub.
London has more 5-star hotels (347) than any other city on Earth. It also has the second largest number of luxury venues (628) in the world Source.
From checking in at a London luxury hotel to taking a dinner cruise along the Thames River, experiencing the English culture of Afternoon Tea, taking a VIP private and Chauffeured tour of the city, participating in a Chocolate Truffle making class and taking a Helicopter tour of London, this exceptional English city is the epitome of opulence on the British Isle.
Shopping is a must for a discerning luxury traveller to London. Explore and shop at London’s famous luxury shopping districts like Bond Street, Dover Street Market, Harrods and Mayfair.
Enjoy a Spa Day at East River Spa, the Spa at Dolphin Square, and the Spa at the Athenaeum. You can also take a train journey through London’s countryside.
While top attractions like Buckingham Palace, the London Eye, Westminster Abbey, Tower Bridge, and Big Ben adorned the skyline of London, you can indulge in the apex of urban luxury in London by booking a lavish suite in one of London’s top luxury hotels such as The Connaught, The Dorchester, The Peninsula London, Rosewood London, The Ritz and The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park London.
Sample some refreshing English Wines on an exclusive wine tour and savour delectable cuisines not limited to British cuisines but also seasoned international delicacies prepared by Master Chefs at one of the several rated restaurants and fine dining centres across London.
9. Tokyo, Japan
Beautiful Tokyo as the locals call it, the Capital of Japan is an ultra-modern Asian edifice that balances modern technological and architectural innovation with traditional Yamato (Japanese) precedence.
Tokyo is one of the most spectacular cities in Asia bursting with energy. It is also one of the most expensive cities in the world a record it historically tops for some 14 out of 20 consecutive years ending in 2013 [Source].
With an international reputation for upscale living, home to the world’s largest and most impactful technology companies, multinational corporations and collections of global luxury brands in hospitality, recreation and entertainment, Tokyo is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious cities in the world for a luxury splurge.
The most delightful sights in Tokyo during Spring is the blooming Cherry Trees or Cherry Blossoms (Sakura). Several local events and festivals are organized to commensurate the blooming of cherry blossoms.
Tokyo offers a wide range of high-end activities for the ultimate pleasure of its guests. These extensive luxury activities include visits to the richest and most upscale areas (or wealthiest neighbourhoods) in Tokyo such as Minato-ku, Ginza, and Omotesando. These are the best neighbourhoods in Tokyo for ritzy shopping sprees, glamourous fine dining, eclectic wining, the most opulent accommodation (hotels) and historical immersion in one of the Museums.
Relish amazing cuisines and menus created by rated Chefs in Tokyo’s Michelin-starred restaurants such as Sukiyabashi Jiro (the Sushi Legend), Ryugin, and Bakuro Ichidai. Explore Tokyo’s luxury shopping paradise of Ginza Shopping Street and Ginza 6 and tick your luxury shopping list at Isetan Shinjuku and Shibuya Seibu.
Check-in at Tokyo’s most expensive 5-star hotels like Aman Tokyo, Bulgari Hotel Tokyo, Ritz-Carlton Tokyo, Grand Hyatt Tokyo and Keio Plaza Hotel.
Other luxury experiences you can splurge on in Tokyo include rejuvenating treatments in a chic Spa like the Bulgari Spa or a Hot Spring most notably the Onsen Spa Hot Spring. You can also experience unique and guided Tokyo tours or lavish cruises.
10. Los Angeles, USA
According to PassionBuz’s list of the most luxurious cities in the world to live in for 2024, Los Angeles is ranked second, after Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE). The city is also the second most populous in the United States (US) behind only New York.
Los Angeles is mostly famous as the home of the rich and famous and the world-class film and media industry especially Hollywood.
Go on a High-End shopping adventure in Los Angeles and book a VIP personal shopping experience on Rodeo Drive, Melrose Avenue or Beverly Hills. Book a Helicopter tour of Los Angeles with an onboard champagne toast and dessert to experience the city from the sky.
You should also lodge in one of the lavish and luxurious hotels in Los Angeles including Hotel Bel Air Fairmont Century Plaza, Four Seasons Hotel Los Angeles at Beverly Hills, Santa Monica Proper Hotel, L’Ermitage Beverly Hills, Waldorf Astoria Beverly Hills, and The Peninsula Beverly Hills.
Splurge on your favourite meals and menus at Los Angeles’s most expensive restaurants like Providence by Chef Michael Cimarusti and N/Naka, a Japanese restaurant by Chef Niki Nakayama. Urasawa, Saam at SLS Hotel, Sushi Zo, and Capo Restaurant also provide amazing upscale dining and culinary services in Los Angeles.
Cruising the coast of Los Angeles is also famous among the city’s discerning guests and a luxury spa treatment or a Spa Day is a great way to completely relax in this incredible and vibrant city.
Cost of Living and Quality of Life Indices for the Most Luxurious Cities in the World
| No. | City | Country | Cost of Living Index | Quality of Life Index |
| 1. | Dubai | United Arab Emirates (UAE) | 64.1 | 164.5 |
| 2. | Paris | France | 76.4 | 126.0 |
| 3. | Singapore | Singapore | 81.4 | 152.6 |
| 4. | Istanbul | Turkey | 37.3 | 110.9 |
| 5. | Milan | Italy | 70.2 | 111.8 |
| 6. | Hong Kong | People’s Republic of China | 70.6 | 131.9 |
| 7. | Zurich | Switzerland | 116.4 | 188.0 |
| 8. | London | United Kingdom (UK) | 80.3 | 128.8 |
| 9. | Tokyo | Japan | 56.2 | 178.9 |
| 10. | Los Angeles | United States (US) | 84.7 | 144.6 |
| Cost of Living and Quality of Life Indices for the Most Luxurious Cities in the World Source: Numbeo (Retrieved 5th March 2024) | ||||
Zurich, Switzerland have the highest Cost of Living Index (116.4) followed by Los Angeles (84.7), Singapore (81.4), London (80.3), Paris (76.4) and Hong Kong (70.6). These are the most expensive most luxurious cities in the world.
Istanbul have the lowest Cost of Living Index of (37.3) which makes it the most affordable most luxurious city in the world. This is followed by Tokyo (56.2), Dubai (64.1) and Milan (70.2).
The Quality of Life Index for the most luxurious cities in the world showed that Zurich has the highest Quality of Life with an indicator of 188.0. Tokyo (178.9), Dubai (164.5) and Singapore (152.6) have Quality of Life Indices that are above 150, a relatively higher Quality of Life.
Dubai is the optimal luxury city to visit in the world. The city has a relatively low Cost of Living (64.1, 3rd most affordable) and a high Quality of Life (164.5, 3rd highest). This is the best city in the world for a luxury splurge which indicates its position as number one on my list.
Conclusion
The world is filled with amazing cities where we can revel, splurge and live larger than life. The most luxurious cities in the world offer the greatest opportunities to explore, experience and enjoy the best and finest things of life like lavish 5-star accommodation, gourmet dining, high-end shopping, exclusive tours and ultra-luxe activities in a highly developed urban setting.
With the right tools and resources such as this, you can plan and manage your itinerary or next luxury urban (city) vacation. I presented in this post the best and most luxurious cities in the world for a luxury urban splurge.
While the cost of living in the most luxurious cities in the world is expectedly high, the quality of life and extent of comfort and luxury amenities offered are top-notch thus offsetting any monetary considerations.
What is cooler than sitting on the balcony of your over-the-top 5-star hotel suite with a panoramic view of the city while you relish your most coveted champagne matched with a gourmet dessert or a luxury helicopter tour over a bursting city of skyscrapers with complimentary onboard lunch?
There is no limit to the extent of your luxury experience in the most luxurious cities in the world. Therefore, indulge and explore these top-of-the-world cities at your utmost pleasure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. What are the most luxurious cities in the world for a luxury splurge?
The most luxurious cities in the world for a luxury splurge are:
- Dubai, UAE
- Paris, France
- Singapore
- Istanbul, Turkey
- Milan, Italy
- Hong Kong, China
- Zurich, Switzerland
- London, United Kingdom
- Tokyo, Japan, and
- Los Angeles, USA
Q2. Are the most luxurious cities in the world the same as the most expensive cities?
While as a result of the high-level luxury amenities, infrastructure and services offered by the most luxurious cities in the world makes them have a relatively higher cost of living, the cost of living alone is not enough to designate a city as the most luxurious. Hence, the most luxurious cities in the world are not exactly the same as the most expensive cities.
Q3. What are the common features of the most luxurious cities in the world?
Highly developed urban economy, modern architecture, 5-star hotels and hospitality services, Michelin-starred restaurants, exclusive recreational and entertainment amenities, ritzy shopping centres, high-end luxury lifestyle services (e.g. concierge and personal shopper), breathtaking landmarks and cultural attractions, and endearing city adventures like helicopter tours, shuttle or luxury cruises are some of the common features of the most luxurious cities in the world.
Q4. Which of the most luxurious cities in the world have the highest quality of life?
Zurich, Switzerland have the highest quality of life. And it is also the most expensive most luxurious city in the world.
Q5. What are the optimal most luxurious cities in the world with a high quality of life and minimal cost of living?
Dubai, United Arab Emirates (UAE) is the optimal most luxurious city in the world with a high quality of life and minimal cost of living. Singapore, London, Tokyo and Hong Kong also have a great optimal balance between Cost of Living and Quality of Life.
