Wondering how to go on an adventure to some of the wealthiest cities in the world and not lose a fortune?? These 10 locations are home to more millionaires, centi-millionaires and billionaires than anywhere else in the world! I traveled to majority of the most expensive cities across the globe and I can assure you it didn’t wash me financially at all. There are ways to have most wonderful travel experience (like I always have along all my travels) without going broke – I’ll show you BEST TRAVEL DEALS FOR EACH CITY, FREE TOURS & ATTRACTIONS – I’ll guide you how to get around and where to stay. Let’s delve into how to make the most of your visit to the top 10 richest cities in the world without going broke!
How to visit the top 10 richest cities?
What I can definitely say, you have to visit these cities once in your lifetime. From opulent cityscapes to serene natural landscapes some of them are magic – Hong Kong and Singapore are just mind-blowing (I’m subjective as I love Asia!!)!
BOOK YOUR FLIGHT!
Every affordable travel starts with good planning – and this is crucial for securing best prices on flights on Skyscanner.com. Flight ticket is usually the most expensive part of the journey. Searching for best deals is key to visit top 10 richest cities on a low cost.
DO NOT TRAVEL WITHOUT MEDICAL INSURANCE.
This is not the way to save on your trip cost. I have always traveled with a solid travel experience, once I tried other options – the worst injury happened to me and I can tell you – you do not want to be in a similar situation! Have no regrets and book best possible travel insurance – after trying different options SafetyWing is the only one I would highly recommend.
SECURE ACCOMMODATION
Book your accommodation well in advance on Agoda.com, especially if you plan to visit during peak tourist seasons. The richest cities attract visitors from around the world, so securing a place to stay early is crucial.
EXPERIENCE LUXURY
Remember – BEST THINGS IN LIFE ARE FREE (AND VIEWS AS WELL). Treat yourself to a taste of the high life by visiting upscale shopping districts & shopping centres, reach for the best city view which can be obtained from a local SKYBAR or SHOPPING CENTRE, or HOTEL – you might be required to make a reservation or purchase a drink. Call the place and ask. In Madrid for most of the skybars you are only required to purchase a drink.
DRAFT CITY ITINERARY.
Research each city’s top attractions and plan your itinerary in advance. This will help you make the most of your time and ensure you don’t miss out on any must-see locations. Don’t lose time onsite on searching for places and attractions, it’s fun to browse and get an idea on what’s worth seeing and what tours are a good option.
1. Tokyo - the wealthiest city in the world in 2024.
When I first went to Tokyo I had a week to explore the world’s largest metropolitan economy and probably the largest city I’ve been so far with 21.9 million people. Tokyo blends modernity with tradition, from the towering skyscrapers in Shinjuku to the historic temples of Asakusa, it really offers a diverse range of experiences for travelers.
BEST thing you get in Tokyo is FREE – many structures and buildings offer incredible views of Tokyo, which is the most incredible experience in this city.
The most magnificent temples in Tokyo are also free to visit – Senso-ji Temple, Meiji Jingu Shrine or Asakusa.
www.mytokyopass.com – great 48h pass for Tokyo Subway and over 50 popular cultural facilities.
Klook Pass Greater Tokyo – up to 48% off to multiple acttractions.
Affordable attractions & Things not to miss:
- You must try sushi in Tokyo – it is NOT expensive as widely considered,
- Explore the renowned Tsukiji Fish Market,
- Witness the futuristic technology in Akihabara.
Best accommodation options in Tokyo.
Japan was always considered as one of the most expensive when it comes to accommodation. I paid $25 per night for the tiniest room I’ve ever seen in my life: 2x2metres size with no furnitures but only a sleeping mat (Shikibuton) on the floor. But that was the comfort price you had to pay if you wanted to stay in Japan for couple of weeks.
The good news is the accommodation prices dropped down massively in recent years and now you can get a 3 star APA Hotel & Resort Ryogoku Eki Tower for less than $40/per night! So visiting top 10 richest cities in the world might not be as difficult as considered with proper advanced planning.
For budget travelers I can recommend coveniently located Anshin Oyado Tokyo Shinbashi Shiodome or stylish 9h nine hours Akasaka sleep lab.
Things to Do in Japan for unique travel experience.
The allure of Japan lies not only in its rich history and unique traditions but also in its modern advancements and bustling cityscapes.
Top things to do in Asakusa district in Tokyo!
Are you looking for an adventure-packed trip to Tokyo? Tokyo is the ultimate dream destination, the biggest metropolis in the world. But it’s
Things to do in Meiji Jingu Tokyo’s most important Shrine.
Tokyo, a dream destination for many people, was also for me. Tokyo was my primary destination for backapacking southeast Asia, my first long-term
2. New York (equally with Los Angeles).
The iconic New York City is a powerhouse of finance, culture and creativity. Most iconic places are free of charge.
As an adventurous traveler I can endlessly explore the bustling streets of Times Square, take a leisurely stroll through Central Park, Brooklyn Bridge or visit the world-class museums such as the Metropolitan Museum of Art and the Museum of Modern Art.
New York City museums free entry.
The City of New York is home to more than 700 galleries, 380 nonprofit theater companies, 330 dance companies, 131 museums, 96 orchestras, 40 Broadway theaters – a lot of them offer free hours admission.
Brooklyn Botanic Garden | www.bbg.org – Free admission on Saturdays from 10 AM–Noon, all day Tuesdays.
Morgan Library and Museum | www.themorgan.org – Free on Fridays, 7–9 PM
Museum of Modern Art | www.moma.org – Free Friday Nights, 4–8 PM
Top rated affordable accommodation options can be found here on agoda.com.
3. London
20 years ago London was the top city in the world for millionaires. But not anymore.. and it’s not even close. With rich history and influence in global finance, London exudes sophistication and charm.
The historic landmarks such as the Tower, Hyde Park of London or Buckingham Palace can be enjoyed for free, along with these significant places:
- British Museum: Tickets to the permanent collection are free.
- National Gallery of London – Entry to the Gallery to view the collection is free.
- Magnum Museum
- Lords Cricket Ground
Top reviewed stays on agoda.com.
4. Paris.
Paris city offers rich cultural experiences, which should be lived via world famous museums, art galleries and historical landmarks.
However, some precious activities and sights are free:
- The Eiffel Tower
- Art history at the Petit Palais (art museum in the 8th arrondissement of Paris)
- The Avenue des Champs-Élysées is a 2 kilometre avenue in the 8th arrondissement of Paris
- Galeries Lafayette Paris Haussmann including shopping in a beautiful venue.
Travel through the most scenic road in the Pyrenees from Spain to France.
Pyrenees landscape, shaped with dramatic snowy peaks, emerald rivers, deep valleys and curly mountain roads is truly breathtaking! My priority for this trip
Exploring The City of Love: A comprehensive Paris travel guide for your French adventure.
Bonjour! Paris, known to many as the “City of Love,” is one of the most beautiful and romantic cities in the world. It
Paris city – home of oysters & croissants over the champagne & fashion
Paris – a city of romance with an Eiffel Tower at the foot, considered to be one of the most beautiful in the
5. Beijing - China.
Beijing, Shanghai, Hong Kong, Macau are one of the most powerful and significant metropolis, with a stunning city structures and architecture, sinked in a rich Chinese tradition. Explore the majestic Forbidden City, wander along the Great Wall and savor the delectable Peking duck.
You might like: Visit world’s largest ice and snow festival – Harbin Ice and Snow World.
I was on a long trip and had little time to prepare for China travel, however this backpackers hostel helped me a lot to detect best sites /at least for the beginning of the trip/. I was staying in Beijing Yue Xuan Courtyard Garden International Youth Hostel (in Dongsi Alley) – which is truly the only right place to begin your adventure in China. The hostel also offer very affordable tours to Great Wall of China.
6. Singapore.
Singapore is a bustling cosmopolitan hub! Visit top 10 richest cities in the world could not be accomplished without incredible Singapore – a mix of innovative architecture, thriving food scene and lush urban oases. City vibe is chilled and relaxing. Check my 5-day Singapore travel itinerary travel guide!
GO ON A FREE SINGAPORE CITY SIGHTS TOUR or HERITAGE TOUR, which takes you through Singapore’s colonial past. The tour has to be pre-booked at the www.changiairport.com and the only requirement is to be on a transit visa which is less than 24 hours between your flights.
If you are stuck on Singapore Changi Airport between your flights – not a single reason to worry – Changi Airport is one of the most luxuries, modern and adventurous airports in the world. YOU WILL NOT BE BORED FOR A SECOND with plenty of FREE TOP 10 ATTRACTIONS IN SINGAPORE AIRPORT.
Watch out for the city rules! You can smoke in Singapore but only in dedicated areas. Smoking in Singapore has been banned in public places such as buses or theatres since 1970.
Most affordable tours & things you can’t miss to visit:
- Iconic Gardens by the Bay – ticket only~$7 with Klook,
- Famous Jewel Changi Airport Attraction Ticket – usually less than $7 with Klook.
- Where Art Meets Science – visit magnificent Marina Bay and the Museum,
- Sampling delectable street food,
- Vibrant neighborhoods – Take lunch in one and only CAFE MONOCHROME – the first 2D Cafe with hand drawn sketch designs!
GET SINGAPORE TOURIST PASS – which includes general entry to favourite Singapore’s attractions, including Universal Studios Singapore (available as premium add-on), Gardens by the Bay Singapore, Singapore Cable Car, Skyhelix Sentosa Singapore, Singapore Flyer ticket, Singapore Zoo, Singapore River Cruise, Big Bus Singapore tour, and many more!
7. Hong Kong
Hong Kong skyline amazes, at day and night time, with a magnificent display of modern architecture, soaring skyscrapers, and stunning panoramic views!
Hong Kong’s dynamic blend of Eastern and Western influences creates a magnetism that draws visitors from around the world.
While most of the attractions are really set at a very affordable price, there are many outstanding things to do for FREE.
Free lunch for Hong Kong Visitors! Check with Hong Kong Tourism Board which is giving away one ✨million✨ dining vouchers worth HKD100 each. The office is available at the main HK airport.
VISA – Check your requirements for Hong Kong Travel Visa. Most nationalities can enter visa-free for stays ranging from 7 days to 180 days.
FLIGHTS: Check last minute flight deals on Skyscanner.com. If your flight is delayed or cancelled have AIRHelp to seek your compensation. All you have to do is submit your flight details.
PUBLIC TRANSPORT: Hong Kong OCTOPUS CARD.
ACCOMMODATION: Not the cheapest in Hong Kong, if you are not staying in a hotel the rooms are usually tiny. Best area to stay: Tsim Sha Tsui near the harbour and Avenue of Stars – search for best offers on agoda.com. Check advise on Hong Kong travel guide for first timers.
CURRENCY: The official currency is the Hong Kong Dollar (HKD). ATMs: widely available, debit and credit cards are accepted in hotels, restaurants and larger stores.
Wi-Fi: Every hotel/hostel/guesthouse, public transportation, touristic spots.
Chase the Hong Kong skyline!
Lots of the iconic views are reachable for FREE:
- Hike Victoria Peak – it takes only 1 hour to hike the steap and humid hill. Alternatively you can secure a ticket for Victoria Peak Tram and Sky Terrace 428 Ticket in Hong Kong or Combo ticket: Central and Victoria Peak booked by millions.
- Suicide Cliff – best Hong Kong view! Read my full post on Hiking Kowloon Peak – the Suicide Cliff before hiking.
- The Avenue of Stars in Victoria Harbour.
If you really want to live an amazing experience I highly recommend Luxury Yacht Experience Victoria Harbour HK Night Cruise with unlimited snacks and drinks and Victoria Harbour photography/you can get it for only~$22!
8. Zurich - Switzerland.
Visit top 10 richest cities would not be complete without Zurich – a global financial center, which offers a mix of natural beauty and urban sophistication.
Best sites to visit for free:
- A walk along the shores of Lake Zurich
- Cultural scene in the Old Town
- The Botanical Garden in Seefeld offers indoor and outdoor display of more than 8000 plant species.
9. Miami
Miami is a must when visiting the top 10 richest cities in the world. I came there for three things 😉
- South Beach – beautiful white sand and turquoise waters beach.
- Ocean Drive – the most famous movie and soundtrack street in Miami and soak up the colorful art deco buildings.
- Art Deco Historic District. This is a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts and history buffs.
However the Bayfront Park can be a great spot for stunning views of Biscayne Bay, a picnic, people-watching or simply enjoying the fresh sea breeze. You can taste Cuban culture in Little Havana, wandering through the streets, listen to lively music and perhaps even catch a free outdoor performance.
10. Sydney
The good news is most of the things in Sydeny are free.. And outside of Sydney Harbour Bridge and the famous Opera Building there are not many other reasons to stay in the city.
My favourite will be Bondi Beach to Coogee Coastal Walk, offering magnificent views of the ocean, cliffs and rock formations. If you prefer to go have things organized for the day, this Sydney City and Bondi Beach Half Day Private Touris a agreat option.
Royal Botanic Garden is a peaceful oasis in the heart of the city and a great place for a relaxed walk or a lazy afternoon picnic.
And you abviously can’t miss Sydney Opera House, you can still admire for free the stunning architecture of the Sydney Opera House from the outside and even catch some free outdoor performances on occasion.
Swim in the legendary Iceberg club.
One of the most interesting places to go for a refreshing drink is Icebergs Club. Its iconic building overlooks the ocean with a swimming pool that’s open to the public.
While there are many reasons to visit top 10 richest cities in the world, the financial aspect plays an importnant role. All these cities are brimming with free attractions and activities, so take an advantage of these complimentary experiences and make the most of your time in these metropolies without putting a strain on your wallet.
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