Yahoo Finance Experiencing Luxury Overseas: European Cities the Rich Love To Visit — and How Much It Costs
According to Allianz Partners USA, Americans plan on spending a record amount on vacations this summer at $221.6 billion. The amount that every family spends will depend on their budget and financial situation. While you may have to set a strict budget for your travels, some rich people have the resources to experience luxury overseas.
The rich tend to visit many European cities to experience luxury, but there has been a shift recently in the places they’re visiting.
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”The most interesting trend among cities our wealthiest clients love to visit is the shift from the most famous European cities, Paris, Rome, London, Zurich, to cities that offer these travelers the chance to both enjoy a truly luxurious experience, but also have a more authentic travel connection,” said Richard Krieger, director at Sky Vacations.
So where in Europe are the rich visiting, and how much does it cost to visit these places?
Athens, Greece
Athens is known for the National Archaeological Museum and the Olympic Stadium, but rich tourists are attracted to the incredible food scene, art galleries, local markets, world-class shopping and luxury accommodations.
“Long thought of by older generations as nothing more than an overnight stop before hitting the islands, Athens is fast becoming one of our most requested destinations for our highest-income earners,” Krieger said.
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Where do the rich stay?
“Our most popular hotel choices are the Electra Palace and the newly opened One&Only Aesthesis, located just outside the city center on a stunning beach in the Glyfada neighborhood,” Krieger said, adding that they are “very popular with clients who love to be pampered at a spa and to be on the beach.”
How much does it cost?
The cost per person for a five-night trip to Athens is $5,500, according to the pricing team from Sky Vacations.
This cost includes hotel accommodations, private transfers, customized sightseeing, VIP admissions to museums and sites, and private guides.
Vienna, Austria
Rich tourists, especially ones who are art lovers, have recently started to gravitate toward Vienna. Since there’s an entire museum quarter, Vienna offers as much art and culture as other European cities.
“Two must-do experiences are a stop at the Café Sacher for the most famous cake in Austria (Sacher torte) and a visit to the ancient abbey of Klosterneuburg, including a museum and vineyard with [a] working wine cellar and wine tasting,” Krieger said.
How much does it cost?
The cost per person for a five-night trip to Vienna is $6,300, according to the pricing team from Sky Vacations.
This cost includes hotel accommodations, private transfers, customized sightseeing, VIP admissions to museums and sites, and private guides.
Nice, France
Nice is the ideal base to explore the French Riviera and Provence, and wealthy individuals love the city’s energy. The city is known for its beautiful food, flower markets, architecture and beaches, which attract the wealthy.
Krieger mentioned that Sky Vacations is sending rich clients to Nice to attend the various events at the Opera Nice Côte d’Azur, which, in addition to opera, offers ballet, jazz and even dinners on the stage.
“Stretching along the Mediterranean coast of southeastern France, it’s famous for its incredible sea views, turquoise water, sandy beaches, charming towns and delicious cuisine,” said Alonso Marly, travel expert at Skylux Travel.
Can’t decide where to visit in the area? “Cannes, Antibes and Saint-Tropez are some of the most glamorous cities across the region, where the elite gather for luxury yachting, fine dining and high-end shopping,” Marly said.
How much does it cost?
The cost per person for a five-night trip is $6,700, according to the pricing team from Sky Vacation.
This cost includes hotel accommodations, private transfers, customized sightseeing, VIP admissions to museums and sites, and private guides.
Florence, Italy
Florence is known for its world-class hotels, quality restaurants, high-end shopping and rich cultural heritage. The rich enjoy visiting this city because they can also take day trips into the Tuscan countryside, where they can experience vineyard tours, gorgeous bike rides and exclusive dining.
“Recently, we’ve observed a significant increase in demand for luxury and big-budget travel experiences in Florence,” said Ben Julius, founder of Tourist Italy. “Every day, we receive numerous inquiries from clients seeking customized and private travel arrangements to this exquisite city.”
How much does it cost?
“Typically, a customized luxury four-day, three-night experience in Florence staying in luxury five-star hotels such as Four Seasons or Belmond, including transfers, visits to a winery, an olive oil press and a food class, costs from $4,000 per person,” Julius said.
The Brando in Tetiaroa, French Polynesia
French Polynesia isn’t technically on the European mainland, but it is a French overseas territory associated with the European Union. The Brando is a private island in Tetiaroa known for its pure, crystalline, turquoise waters.
“The scenic settings are amazing and truly transport you to another dimension,” said Virgi Schiffino Kennedy, founder of Lux Voyage. “The resort’s private villas are nestled along the white sandy beaches, each offering discreet luxury with plunge pools and direct access to the beach.”
The rich are also enticed by the menus curated by Michelin-starred chefs and unique culinary experiences. The ingredients for the food are sourced from the island’s organic gardens.
How much does it cost?
The average rate is $8,000 per night, and this doesn’t include flights.
Marbella, Spain
Located on the southern coast of Spain, Marbella is one of the most exclusive and prestigious destinations. The charming old town, the beautiful Orange Square and lively markets are signs of Marbella’s rich culture and history.
“Full of luxury boutiques, extravagant villas, Michelin-starred restaurants and upscale beach clubs, it’s preferred by many A-listers looking to get the most out of their vacation experience,” Marly said.
The rich also flock to the famous Golf Valley for the highest density of prestigious golf courses in Europe. According to Marly, the blend of old-world charm and modern luxury sets Marbella apart from other high-end European destinations.
How much does it cost?
Marly said that a vacation experience ranges from around $5,000 per person, with luxury waterfront villas starting at $2,500 a week.
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