Inside the Most Expensive Tourist Attractions on Earth

Interior view of the underwater suite at Conrad Maldives Rangali Island, featuring a bedroom surrounded by panoramic ocean views with tropical fish swimming overhead — TripAdvisor

Breathtaking Bucket-List Experiences That Also Break the Bank

Some travel experiences come with price tags that can rival a small car or even a house. From private train carriages to underwater hotel suites, these are the most expensive tourist attractions you can visit today. But these 15 experiences offer more than luxury.

They open doors to once-in-a-lifetime encounters. I’ll unpack real-time costs, how to book them, and whether each is genuinely worth the premium.

Rwanda Gorilla Trek

ourist trekking in Rwanda's Volcanoes National Park to see endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat — Adobe Stock

Price: About $1,500 for a one-hour permit

In Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, a rare hour with wild mountain gorillas costs $1,500. The fee funds conservation and limits visitors to just a handful each day, giving you a once-in-a-lifetime wildlife encounter without disturbing their habitat.

Worth noting: book through the Rwanda Development Board site or operators like Gorilla Permits

Worth it? If you have the budget and interest in wildlife conservation, yes. The close-up view of gorillas is rare and unforgettable.

Murder Mystery on the British Pullman Train

British Pullman train staff in tuxedos standing on the platform at London Victoria Station — TripAdvisor

Price: $1,400 to $2,800 per person

Step aboard this 1930s-inspired luxury train from London’s Victoria Station and play detective while enjoying a five-course gourmet meal. Tickets run from $1,400 to $2,800, and the price includes the theatrical experience, fine wines, and countryside views you will not soon forget.

Book via Belmond Pullman’s official website.

Worth it? Perfect for fans of Agatha Christie-style mysteries seeking an upscale, all-inclusive event with a unique atmosphere.

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express L’Observatoire Carriage

Venice Simplon-Orient-Express luxury train traveling through the Austrian Alps countryside — TripAdvisor

Price: Around $86,000 per night

The classic Orient Express journey is already legendary, but a night in the L’Observatoire Carriage takes it to another level. At $86,000 per night, you get a marble bathroom, secret tea room, personal butler, and the most glamorous ride from Paris to Istanbul imaginable.

Reserve through Belmond L’Observatoire’s booking portal.

Worth it? Only for travelers seeking extreme privacy and luxury. For train enthusiasts with deep pockets, it is the ultimate experience.

Monaco Grand Prix VIP Experience

View of Monaco Grand Prix race track from behind with city and harbor in the background — Adobe Stock

Price:

Terrace & Yacht Packages: About $3,800 to $16,500+ per person, depending on location and duration.
Private Trackside Yacht Weekend (Gold–Diamond Tier): $15,000 to $30,000+ per person.

Your VIP experience could include sipping Champagne on a superyacht moored in Port Hercule, sunning on a rooftop terrace with panoramic views of the track, or mingling in exclusive lounges like the Paddock Club.

You’ll enjoy gourmet meals, open bars, live entertainment, and the chance to skip lines and soak up the race from prime vantage points.

Worth it? If you crave adrenaline, exclusivity, and the international flair of Monaco, then yes.