25 Of The Most Expensive Vacations You Can Take
They say that money can’t buy happiness, but it will get you the next best thing: the most amazing vacation of your life. When money is no object, you can pick from the most exotic and elite vacation destinations in the world. Filled with jaw-dropping accommodations, meals by Michelin-starred chefs, and ultra-luxurious experiences that aren’t available to the middle-class Joe, these expensive vacations will offer some unforgettable moments that you’ll cherish forever.
The destinations on this list are where many of the wealthiest people in the world go when they want to unwind. And even if you can’t afford it just yet, you can live vicariously through this article or just plan ahead for when you eventually make that coin.
Hugh Hefner Sky Villa, Palms Casino Resort, Las Vegas, Nevada
Hugh Hefner Sky Villa, Palms Casino Resort, Las Vegas, Nevada
There are no words that can fully describe how extravagant the Hugh Hefner Sky Villa in the Palms Casino Resort is. Spanning over two stories, the villa houses a $700,000 jacuzzi, swimming pool, sauna, spa, media room, gym, kitchen, bar, and an outdoor terrace with a view of Las Vegas that will blow your mind. You’ll also have a 24/7 butler service that will satisfy your every craving. Averaging around $34,000 a night, previous guests include T-Pain, Common, and Kanye West.
Necker Island, British Virgin Islands
Necker Island, British Virgin Islands
The luxurious private island of Sir Richard Branson, Necker Island spans over 30 hectares in the Caribbean Sea. The idyllic island paradise reflects the natural beauty that surrounds it. The entire island operates as a resort and you can choose to either rent out the entire thing or stay in one of their gorgeous Balinese-style villas complete with bamboo furniture and Asian antiquities. If you do decide to rent out the entire island, it can cost upwards of $100,000 a day but will include the incomparable accommodation, private access to two beaches, private pools, scenic views, a personal chef, and over 100 other staff members who are there to satisfy your every whim. You can spend your time there sailing, scuba diving, staying healthy with your very own fitness coach, having a rejuvenating spa treatment, or hosting a legendary themed party night.
Penthouse Apartment, Hotel Georges V, Paris, France
Penthouse Apartment, Hotel Georges V, Paris, France
Imagine spending your evenings on the private balcony of your penthouse apartment in Hotel Georges V, taking in the panoramic views of one of the seven wonders of the world: the Eiffel Tower. You’ll have an unobstructed view of the iconic landmark across the Seine – can you imagine a more romantic vacation destination than that? The view alone would be worth the almost $30,000 a night it would cost for you to stay there. You can start your day with breakfast on the terrace, unwind in the infinity bath fitted with a chromotherapy system, or enjoy exclusive amenities like your access to antique books and a stocked private bar. If none of those are to your liking, your dedicated personal attendant can make anything you imagine a possibility.
Casa El Destino, Punta Mita, México
Casa El Destino, Punta Mita, México
Also known as “The Point of Simple Pleasure”, Casa El Destino can be found at the very tip of the peninsula in which the resort community of Punta Mita is located. Casa El Destino is a home within a private gated community that is open to elite and discerning guests from all over the world. You’ll be staying in a high-end accommodation complete with state-of-the-art security and world-class amenities all while being right in the middle of the natural beauty of the Sierra Madre Mountains, the Bay of Banderas, and the Pacific Ocean.
Even though you’ll only be 45 minutes away from the Puerto Vallarta international airport, you’ll feel as if you’ve been transported to another world filled with the vibrancy and freshness of untouched nature. Once you arrive at the oceanfront home, you’ll be taken aback by the magnificent views of the ocean and the Puerto Vallarta skyline before you even go inside. Once you do, you’ll be surrounded by the intricate beauty put together by Barbara Page Interiors that’s the perfect combination of colonial and contemporary Mexico.
Casa El Destino has seven immaculately designed bedroom suites, a lush patio area, a living room with adjoining wet bar, an indoor and outdoor dining area, a fully equipped fitness center, and an infinity pool that looks as if it’s extending into the ocean. Tons of little features that complete the lavish vacation such as satellite radio, iPhone docking stations, and free phone calls to anywhere in the US, Canada, or within Mexico. Let’s not forget the out-of-this-world dining experience you’ll be given as the in-house chefs cater to your every culinary desire – if you’re in the mood for it, chances are they can make it.
Guests of Casa El Destino will have full access to the two nearby Jack Nicklaus golf courses, two surrounding beach clubs, and in-villa spa services. You can also partake in tons of outdoor activities in this tropical paradise such as surfing, sailing, fishing, kayaking, horseback riding, and whale watching. Ranging between $70,000 to $100,000 (USD) per week, Casa El Destino is as close to heaven on earth as you’re going to get.
Flat Earth Suite, Fogo Island Inn, Newfoundland, Canada
Flat Earth Suite, Fogo Island Inn, Newfoundland, Canada
Often considered to be at “the end of the world”, the Flat Earth Suite in the Fogo Island Inn is one of the most beautiful accommodations on our list – but surprisingly not one of the most expensive. The boutique hotel is located on a remote island in Newfoundland. Make the most of your luxury experience by beginning with a chartered helicopter ride to the hotel. The inn offers the opportunity for their guests to take part in a sponsorship program where you can interact with the locals and understand their culture and traditions. If you’d rather unwind and relax instead, head to one of the hotel’s rooftop hot tubs to get a soak while taking in the panoramic views.
Over Yonder Cay, Bahamas
Over Yonder Cay, Bahamas
Rent out an entire island for you and your friends at the Over Yonder Cay in the Bahamas. Prices are upward of $730,000 a week for up to 28 people but the accommodation and amenities make it worth every penny. You and your guests will be staying in four villas spread across the island, with 15 rooms combined. Each of them is uniquely designed but comes with an infinity pool and jacuzzi. While staying at the luxurious private island, you can spend your time making the most of all of the amenities which are included during your stay. This means you can spend your mornings on the golf course or having a yoga session while your evenings could be dedicated to relaxing massages or watching a movie in the private cinema. Guests will also have access to sailboats, fishing boats, and a 114-foot superyacht named Tenacious.
Villa Titanium, Ibiza
Villa Titanium, Ibiza
Villa Titanium is the brainchild of French socialite Cathy Guetta and her ex-husband DJ David Guetta – in fact, it’s named after one of his chart-topping songs, Titanium. So, you can imagine how amazing a property reflective of their personalities would be! Villa Titanium can be found in the heart of Ibiza, just a quick drive away from the beaches of Las Salinas. The house, including all twelve of its bedrooms, exudes style and glamor. You’ll love browsing the house after hours since that’s when a lot of the decor like the light installments and neon artwork really stand out. In addition to the main house, its rooms, and the 24-person staff, guests will also have access to the professional kitchen, the spa with a hammam, and the wellness tents for yoga, massages, or meditation.
Villa Bellissima VI, Siena, Italy
Villa Bellissima VI, Siena, Italy
Nestled on a rural hillside in central Tuscany, Villa Bellissima VI is an incomparable destination that combines luxury, beauty, and history into one at an amazing 800-year-old farming village. The tranquil resort runs through a historic medieval pilgrimage route from Canterbury to Rome. There are so many amazing aspects to Villa Bellissima that it’s almost impossible to do it justice with words; you can see the ancient stone-carved Borghese crest outside the dining room, the historic wood-burning oven that is over 500 years old, and the grooved brick staircase that has been climbed by thousands of people since it was built.
At $137,000 per week, the villa itself includes 22 suites in the manor house and an additional 4 suites in the farmhouses. The suites are luxurious, private, and filled with intricate details that add the right amount of charm. The public spaces are quite the opposite and focus on people coming together in a flourishing and open environment. There is a formal dining room, an outdoor dining terrace, a living room with a grand piano, a cantina and wine tasting room, a bar, a professional teaching kitchen, a screening room, a library, and a conference room that can accommodate up to 50 people. You can also make use of the 60’ oval swimming pool, tennis and basketball court, state-of-the-art fitness center, and spa.
You’ll have a team comprising wait staff, concierge, maids, cleaning staff, a general manager, and a private chef who are all there to ensure you have the best experience. You and your friends and family will be immersed in Tuscan traditions, friendly hospitality, delicious food, and outstanding wine – their extensive breakfast buffet alone is worth the costs.
Ol Jogi, Kenya
Ol Jogi, Kenya
Hermes linens, Buccellati silver, and private access to an incredibly diverse wildlife surrounding – you can find all this and more at the Wildenstein family’s private ranch, Ol Jogi, in Kenya. The private property sits on nearly 60,000 acres of protected wildlife areas and the private access given to ranch guests means that you’ll get to enjoy and appreciate it without the hustle and bustle of tourists and other crowds. There are seven cottage suites to choose from, all of which are filled with super luxurious touches and mindful amenities that will make your stay memorable. A majority of the profits from the ranch’s rentals go to conservation efforts of the surrounding park and the wildlife in it, especially the endangered black rhinos found in East Africa.
Villa Manzu, Costa Rica
Villa Manzu, Costa Rica
You’ll really be living it up like a celebrity if you choose to stay at the Villa Manzu in Costa Rica. The Kardashian/ Jenner clan are known to stay there during their widely publicized trips to Costa Rica. The estate is spread across five acres right beside the Pacific Ocean, giving you private beach access among other perks. There are only eight suites on the entire property, ensuring that you definitely get the solitude and serenity you crave, while still having your friends or family come along for the ride. Guests of Villa Manzu usually spend their time sunbathing, partaking in watersports, or just unwinding from the hectic schedules of their everyday lives. Staying here means you’ll also have access to the villa’s wine room, which is stocked with award-winning cigars and bottles of wine handpicked by their sommelier.
Chalet Zermatt Peak, Zermatt, Switzerland
Chalet Zermatt Peak, Zermatt, Switzerland
Imagine spending your vacation in a luxurious five-star ski chalet complete with a Michelin-starred gourmet chef. I don’t know about you but all I would do is ski, get cozy by the fire, and eat all the delicious food I can. This chalet is the definition of luxury and is surrounded by slopes often packed with celebs. After a day of skiing and snowboarding, head inside to fill up on apres-ski treats or unwind with a massage – there are two included for every day you stay there! Prices can range anywhere from $50,000 to $200,000 per night for up to 13 people depending on when you decide to visit.
The Pikaia Lodge, Ecuador
The Pikaia Lodge, Ecuador
Ecuador is a beautiful country that does not receive the credit it deserves sometimes. Very few people will think of Ecuador when planning a luxury getaway, but the Pikaia Lodge is there to prove that the country rivals any other luxury vacation destination on this list.
The Pikaia Lodge resides in the Galapagos, Darwin’s favorite archipelago, and pays homage to Darwin’s theory of evolution which is essentially that only plants and animals that adapt to their environment will survive and continue on to future generations. When being built, this was one of the lodge’s central focuses and the design was extremely environmentally conscious; so much so that much of the surrounding is left unharmed and unchanged. This makes it perfect for active and adventurous travelers who are looking to embrace nature and partake in outdoor activities during their stay.
A week’s stay averages over $20,000 per couple, which isn’t too bad compared to much of the other vacation spots we’ve listed. Because of the lodge’s central location, you’ll have easy access to all of the islands, but you’ll probably not want to leave the grounds much. Explore for yourself and come across the many facilities available to make your stay more pleasant such as the infinity pool or spa. You can also have a dining experience unlike any other at the lodge’s restaurant which is located on the edge of a crater.
Maharajah’s Pavilion, Raj Palace, Jaipur India
Maharajah’s Pavilion, Raj Palace, Jaipur India
Many of the properties we’ve listed in this article have a private jacuzzi, panoramic vistas, and even a rooftop terrace, and though the Maharajah’s Pavilion has all these things, it also comes with your very own museum. You read that right, a museum. The four-floor apartment is what you would imagine staying in a royal palace feels like. You’ll be treated like royalty from the minute you arrive with a private entrance and private elevator. The very top floor is where the rooftop terrace, jacuzzi, and panoramic views are, but the entire second floor is dedicated to the private museum. You can see several artifacts such as the Old Throne and the personal effects of Thakur Sahib. The palatial suite is nothing less than breathtaking and is one of my favorites from this list.
Imperial Suite, Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express
Imperial Suite, Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express
Definitely the most unique vacation listed in this article, a stay at the Golden Eagle Trans-Siberian Express combines both luxury and travel. Take the 15-day journey across one of Russia’s iconic train lines while staying in their Imperial Suite. You’ll be taking a historic journey while enjoying features like heated bathroom floors, a plush bar car, laundry service, and many other features and amenities that rival any of the hotels we’ve listed. Plus, it combines a train adventure, luxury accommodation, and stunning views for around $30,000 for the entire thing – that’s a win in my opinion!
Royal Penthouse Suite, President Wilson Hotel, Geneva
Royal Penthouse Suite, President Wilson Hotel, Geneva
Often recognized as the most expensive hotel in the world, the Royal Penthouse Suite in the President Wilson Hotel is also one of the most exclusive accommodations on this list. Averaging at around $80,000 a night, the suite has twelve bedrooms and over 5,500 square feet of space. But what makes the suite really stand out from everything else we’ve listed is the wraparound terrace which overlooks the Alps over Lac Leman; if you want to take her breath away with a romantic notion like no other, a stay at the Royal Penthouse Suite will do it.
Suite 5000, Mandarin Oriental, New York, USA
Suite 5000, Mandarin Oriental, New York, USA
Like everything else that’s mysterious and hush-hush in New York, don’t expect to find the Suite 5000 on the Mandarin Oriental’s website – only people who know about it can book it. Starting at around $36,000 a night, the suite is located on the 50th floor of the hotel. It is one of the sleekest and most nicely decorated accommodations on our list. You’ll find the furniture to be the perfect combination of style and comfort, while the walls are lined with NYC-inspired art almost as if you were exploring MoMA. If you’re going to spend most of your time ogling at the amazing view in the heart of the city, be sure to play one of the many records stocked in the living room while you do so.
Musha Cay, Bahamas
Musha Cay, Bahamas
Encompassing 11 private islands across 700 acres of the Atlantic Ocean, Musha Cay is owned by renowned illusionist David Copperfield. The luxurious and private getaway destination is his personal retreat and he’s often there throughout the year. Musha Cay is in a prime location and can be found in the Southern Bahamas, just 85 miles southeast of Nassau; it is surrounded by turquoise waters, white sandy beaches, and swaying palm trees.
The going rate averages at $37,500 a night and there is a four-night minimum, but if you can afford it then you should definitely consider staying at Musha Cay. It doesn’t hurt that there is only one group of guests at any given time to maintain privacy, but they can accommodate up to 24 people per group.
In addition to the 10,000 square foot main home, there are four guest houses – for a combination of 12 bedrooms that are decorated in a charming tropical style. There is a private airstrip, 40 private sand beaches, a tennis court, a heated swimming pool, and a fitness center. There’s also an outdoor cinema which is perfect for getting together with family and friends on a lovely afternoon. Other facilities include a steam room, spa center, and water sports gear for snorkeling, scuba diving, and jet skiing.
The Royal Suite, Burj Al Arab, Dubai
The Royal Suite, Burj Al Arab, Dubai
The Burj Al Arab made headlines when it opened in Dubai over 20 years ago; what’s wonderful is that the hotel continues to be recognized for its incomparable amenities and hospitality even today. Another property that’s often called “the most expensive in the world”, it has a nearly $10,000 a night fee for their suite – and though that isn’t much compared to some of the other we’ve mentioned, it doesn’t stop the Royal Suite from being one of the most luxurious and breathtakingly beautiful accommodations in the world. You can stay in one of the Royal Suites on the 25th floor of the hotel. Each suite opens to an entryway decked out in gold and marble and has a grand staircase that leads to the suite’s upper level. There are two master bedrooms, both of which have jacuzzis among other amenities.
Tierra Patagonia, Chile
Tierra Patagonia, Chile
Tierra Patagonia is a family owned and operated boutique situated in Chile’s Torres des Paine National Park. A part of the Tierra Hotels, they also have resort properties on the Island of Chiloe and the San Pedro de Atacama.
Tierra Patagonia is inspired by the amazing nature that surrounds it; the structure has a very open-air flow with large spacious windows that provide panoramic views of the mountains in Torres del Paine National Park. The getaway is focused on embracing nature while indulging in delicious authentic cuisine, rejuvenating spa experiences, and tailor-made excursions to explore your surroundings. At over $3,400 per person per night (at double occupancy), you’ll want nothing more than to just unwind with a glass of Chilean wine.
Deerfield Estate, Heber City, Utah
Deerfield Estate, Heber City, Utah
Just a few minutes from Park City, Deerfield Estate is one of Utah’s most astonishing properties. At $12,000 to $17,000 a night, the estate has a 24-hour staffed gate entrance, seven impeccable master suites, eleven bathrooms, and eight majestic fireplaces. Additional features include an extensive fitness room, a wine cellar, a ski prep room, and a 14-seat theater that will put your local theater to shame. Deerfield Estate even has its own ski-in/ ski-out access to Deer Crest and Deer Valley, as well as a private gondola for guests to use. The mountainside getaway is sure to be unlike any other vacation home you’ve stayed in.
The Post House at Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, California
The Post House at Post Ranch Inn, Big Sur, California
Big Sur is renowned for being one of the most breathtaking coastlines in the world and the drive down the west coast would be a memorable one – now just imagine staying right on the coast. Situated on the southern edge of the Post Ranch Inn, the Post House offers that very opportunity to an elite clientele. You can escape from the rest of the world while being surrounded by postcard-like views of the Big Sur coastline and the Pacific Ocean.
The luxury resort is one of the most expensive accommodations in the world, and rightly so because you’ll be immersed in next-level affluence from the minute you step in. The haven of privacy and opulence is modern yet comfortable with its immaculate architecture and decor, large floor-to-ceiling windows, and fully equipped kitchen. At over $4,000 a night, spend your time making the most of your getaway by unwinding and lounging in the outdoor hot tub or the beautifully landscaped private backyard.
The Hilltop Villa, Laucala Island Resort, Fiji
The Hilltop Villa, Laucala Island Resort, Fiji
Located at the very top of Fiji’s Laucala Island, the Hilltop Villa is a resort that is the physical definition of secluded luxury. The $44,000-per-night villa will take you far away from the rest of civilization, letting you unwind from the hustle and bustle of everyday life while being surrounded by the finest luxuries. You can’t get to the private villa on the private island without taking the only private road that can take you there – that’s how private it is. In fact, it’s so private that it’s not enough to just have money and availability – the island’s owner has a screening process and has the right to approve or deny any reservation to maintain its exclusivity.
Imagine swimming in a panoramic pool surrounded by nature at its finest while a private chef prepares your meals and a private chauffeur and nanny wait on you throughout your stay. It’s opulence at its finest and probably worth every penny you pay.
Isla de sa Ferradura, Spain
Isla de sa Ferradura, Spain
Isla de sa Ferradura is a 35,000m2 private island situated on the north coast of Ibiza. While it is connected to the mainland via a small hidden beach, it is still considered an exclusive private “island” because of its exclusiveness. Comprising a seamless blend of indoor and outdoor living spaces, you’ll have full access to the hacienda, kitchen, bar, wine bodega, swimming pool, a large central patio, tropical gardens, and lagoon complete with waterfall. There’s even a secret cave that’s been converted to a spa so we’re not that surprised by the $230,000 a week bill.
The interiors are filled with local artwork, natural textures, and warm color schemes that exude a cool Ibizan chic vibe while still retaining Mediterranean charm and character. You’ll not want to leave the spacious ensuite bedrooms with their private terraces and king-sized beds, but if you do, you’ll most likely spend your time in the massage room and yoga area, the oriental spa, the fully equipped gym, the tea house, or at the boathouse indulging in almost every watersport you could think of.
Africa House, The Royal Malewane, Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa
Africa House, The Royal Malewane, Greater Kruger National Park, South Africa
If you love the outdoors, going on safaris, and camping but without the basic tents and nature’s outdoor toilets, then you’re going to love staying at Africa House at The Royal Malewane in Greater Kruger National Park in South Africa. There are six spacious rooms in this gorgeous villa, all complete with air conditioning so that you can be immersed in nature without immersing yourself in sweat. The en-suite bedrooms are placed on either side of a beautiful central courtyard and are fitted with stunning four-post beds in addition to other amenities. At $15,000 upward a night, the villa is for exclusive use only and is perfect for friends and family who are vacationing together. You can spend your days tracking down the Big Five with your private tracker and game ranger and then come back to a delicious meal prepared by your private chef. There is also a resort spa, a contemporary in-resort restaurant, a private pool, and so much more.
Royal Villa at Grand Resort Lagonissi, Athens, Greece
Royal Villa at Grand Resort Lagonissi, Athens, Greece
Athens has always been a popular choice when deciding on a vacation destination; it’s perfect for making memories with friends and family while being romantic enough for escapes with a loved one – it’s even the ultimate honeymoon destination of choice for many people!
The Royal Villa at the Grand Resort Lagonissi in Athens will set you back $50,000 for every night that you spend there. The lavish holiday home is perfect for elite guests who want to immerse themselves in luxury and escape in the paradise that is the Athens seaside. The villa houses two master bedrooms, each fitted with king-sized beds, and has a spacious living room, dining area, a fully fitted kitchen, and outdoor barbecue facilities. There’s even a private indoor and outdoor heated swimming pool, steam room, a private spa, and a fully equipped fitness center within the villa for guests to use. You’ll be surrounded by personal butlers, chefs, and even a pianist who are all there to make sure your stay is immaculate.
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These villas, resorts, and penthouses comprise some of the most expensive vacations you can take in the world. They are each breathtaking and are surrounded by picturesque natural landscapes which ensures the experience you have there is unique and memorable. Have you stayed at any of these amazing vacation spots, or have you come across some other exorbitant (yet amazing) getaway? Tell us about them in the comments below!
Short infographic about top 10 Of The Most Expensive Vacations You Can Take:
10 of the Most Expensive Vacation Spots