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10 European Alternatives To The Worlds Most Expensive Holidays

worlds most expensive holidays

When money isn't an issue, there is an entire world of possibilities when it comes to your dream holiday(s).

Perhaps you enjoy the more luxurious things in life but you're also aware that they often come with a huge price tag.

Going on a celebrity style holiday is a dream for many people due to the expense, but what if we could put an end to that?

These 10 European alternatives to the worlds most expensive holidays are perfect for those on a budget who don't want to compromise on luxury, privacy and most
importantly, sunshine!

Our list includes everything from luxury villas in the sunshine to city apartments boasting an endless skyline.

Want to see how much you could save? Visit our money table.

*prices based on findings from July 2018.


1. The Pikaia Lodge, Ecuador

pikaia lodge ecuador

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The Pikaia Lodge is based in the heart of the Galapagos in Ecuador.

The luxury accommodation boasts stunning views and was "designed for the
environmentally conscious, physically active and adventurous traveler."

Amenities

  • Outdoor Pool
  • Hot Tub
  • Spa
  • Room Service
  • Laundry Service
  • Bar & Restaurant

Highlights

  1. Central location - stunning views of the Galapagos.
  2. Dine at the lodges restaurant on the edge of a crater.
  3. Come face-to-face with giant tortoises

PRICE - from £2,000 per night.

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The Windmill, Greece

Windmill is situated in Imerovigli, Santorini - one of the most breathtaking parts of the world.

It's unique design provides you with unique luxury making this the perfect getaway. The luxury villa sleeps up to 5 people as an added bonus.

Find out full details here.

Amenities

  • Outdoor Pool
  • Hot Tub
  • Sun Loungers
  • Private Garden
  • WIFI
  • BBQ & Terrace

Highlights

  1. Beautiful views of local
    vineyards and the distant blue sea (Greece is home to the Marginated Tortoise).
  2. Private pool includes a hydro massage feature.
  3. Large kitchen and dining area ideal for large get togethers.

PRICE - from £242 per night.

2. North Island, Seychelles

north island seychelles

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There is quite simply nothing like holidaying on a private island. There are just 11 villas available at North Island, ensuring total privacy.

According to the rumour mill, this is where Will and Kate enjoyed their honeymoon.

Amenities

  • 8,000 SQ FT
  • Coconut Grove
  • Private Entrance to Beach
  • Turquoise Waters
  • Luminous White Sands
  • Artisan-Made Furniture

Highlights

  1. Direct access to a private beach and the ocean.
  2. Rustic furniture and
    sophisticated designer elements.
  3. Generous space and total privacy.

PRICE - from £8,339 per night.

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Beachside Villa, Fuengirola

beachside villa spain

Okay, so it isn't on it's own private island, but most things aren't!

Our luxury four bedroomed beach house is based in Torreblanca, Fuengirola and is modern, newly built and has tons of space to roam around in.

Full details can be found here.

Amenities

  • Outdoor Pool
  • Private Garden
  • Table Tennis
  • Large Rooms Throughout
  • Close to Beach

Highlights

  1. 150m walk to the nearest beach.
  2. Enjoy locally sourced food & drink beachside.
  3. Large kitchen, dining area and bedrooms - sleeps 8.

PRICE - from £207 per night.

3. The Post House, California

beachside villa spain

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For those lucky to enjoy the wonderful Pacific Ocean views, they choose The Post House in California.

The most expensive villa guarantees unparalleled views of the ocean through the floor-to-ceiling windows from their beds or even from the comfort of a private jacuzzi.

Amenities

  • Complimentary WiFi
  • Heated Infinity Spas
  • Swimming Pools
  • Onsite Fitness Centre
  • Gourmet Buffet Breakfast

Highlights

  1. Stunning views of the Pacific Ocean
  2. Enjoy morning yoga, guided hikes & whale watching.
  3. Rejuvinating spa treatments for the real deal.

PRICE - from £3,297 per night.

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Aegean Hills, Turkey

luxury villa turkey

It might not be views of the Pacific Ocean, but rather stunning views of the Aegean Sea in Yalikavak, a small town on Turkey’s Bodrum Peninsula.

The 3 bedroom villa boasts recently renovated modern interiors including a marble staircase, a fully-fitted designer Italian kitchen and a private pool.

Find out more about this villa.

Amenities

  • Private & Communal Pools
  • BBQ & Terrace
  • Private & Communal Gardens
  • Basketball Hoop
  • WiFi

Highlights

  1. Balcony views of the
    surrounding Aegean hills & sea.
  2. Free form infinity pool
    offering stunning views across the bay.
  3. Beaches & Boat Trips nearby.

PRICE - from £110 per night.

4. Tierra Patagonia, Chile

luxury villa turkey

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Tierra Patagonia offers the most breath-taking views of the mountains in Torres del Paine National Park, just one of the many reasons why people decide to take the trip.

The “luxury adventure" hotel encourages guests to  get up close and personal on a hike followed by a bottle of Chilean wine with views that will last a lifetime.

Amenities

  • Locally Influenced Interiors
  • Cinema-Style Windows
  • Deep-Seated Bath
  • Unforgettable Views
  • No WiFi, No TV

Highlights

  1. Unreal volcano, mountain and sea views.
  2. Hiking, biking & horseback riding.
  3. Spa treatments & wellness centre.

PRICE - from £2,574 per night.

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Villa Lario, Italy

luxury villa turkey

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Villa Lario is located on the shore of Lago di Como in the property's historical gardens.

The luxury villas have a selection of en-suite accommodations with living rooms and private balconies facing the lake, each equipped with air conditioning and
complimentary WiFi.

Visit the website for full details.

Amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Luxury Room Service
  • Traditional Breakfast Included
  • Pool with a View
  • Bar, Lounge & Restaurant

Highlights

  1. Infinity pool & outdoor dining overlooking Lake Como. 
  2. Boat trips across the water available.
  3. Luxury, modern suites to suit everyone.

PRICE - from £606 per night.

5. The Hilltop Villa, Fiji

luxury villa turkey

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Up above Fiji’s Laucala Island sits an incredible villa where guests can experience the most secluded luxury possible.

The villa sits far away from the rest of the people on the island and it’s only
accessible via a private road on an already private island.

Whether you have the cash or not, all reservations require approval by the island’s owner.

Amenities

  • Free WiFi
  • Tennis Court
  • Swimming Pool
  • Beach Front
  • Bar, Lounge & Restaurant

Highlights

  1. Rich green mountains & breathtaking natural beauty.
  2. Sandy beaches & transparent waters.
  3. Activities include golf, water sports & beachside
    horseback riding.

PRICE - from £33,364 per night.

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Villa Agave, Croatia

villa agave croatia

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Villa Agave is one of few luxury European private island villas which sits on the
Zizanj Island, Croatia.

It's exact location is on a rock east of Hotel Excelsior in Dubrovnik on the Adriatic Sea. Stunning views all around!

Full details of the villa can be found here.

Amenities

  • 5 Spacious Terraces (including a Whirlpool)
  • VIP Lounge
  • Luxury Bathrooms
  • Outdoor Swimming Pool
  • Breakfast Included

Highlights

  1. Incredible views of the ocean and sunset/sunrise.
  2. Activities include luxury yacht, motor and sail boat charter.
  3. Swimming pool that
    overlooks the Old Town.

PRICE - from £4,864 per night.

6. Villa Manzu, Costa Rica

villa manzu costa rica

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These 8 private villas spread across five acres of the peninsula straight into the
Pacific Ocean.

For those who care about celebrity standards: the Kardashian's stayed at the lodge for their Costa Rican vacation.

Amenities

  • Luxury King Sized Beds
  • Onsite Gym
  • Private Chef, Server & Butler
  • Access to Four Seasons' Beach Club
  • All Inclusive

Highlights

  1. 180-degree panoramic sea views over the Papagayo Peninsula.
  2. 30,000 square feet of
    complete luxury (including outdoor swimming pool).
  3. Access to marina, golf, and tennis clubhouse located nearby.

PRICE - from £11,389 per night.

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La Cala de Mijas, Spain

villa manzu costa rica

Our luxury villa is located in a perfect position in between Fuengirola and La Cala de Mijas and only a short drive away from beautiful Mijas Puebl.

You can find many attractions, golf courses, shopping and dining facilities all within easy reach on the Costa del Sol.

Full details of the villa can be found here.

Amenities

  • Private Heated Pool
  • Sea & Countryside Views
  • Table Tennis Onsite
  • Tennis Courts Nearby
  • Fully Equipped Kitchen

Highlights

  1. 3 large bedrooms (sleeps 8).
  2. Dine el fresco and enjoy the wonderful views around.
  3. Close to many other towns for those who prefer to explore.

PRICE - from £114 per night.

7. Fogo Island Inn, Canada

fogo island inn canada

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Reaching the end of the world was never going to be cheap. Travellers who want to reach the remote island (in Newfoundland, Canada) can either go on a time
consuming journey or via helicopter.

On arrival, guests can join a program where they’re matched with locals to
get a feel for the area’s culture or instead, relax in one of the hotel’s rooftop hot tubs.

Amenities

  • Traditional Style Rooms
  • Bar & Lounge with Wood
    Burning Fire.
  • Luxury Dining with Sea Views
  • Onsite Library & Cinema
  • Wood Fired Saunas & Outdoor Hot Tubs.

Highlights

  1. Outdoor hot tubs overlooking the pristine water.
  2. 37-seat cinema in
    partnership with The National Film Board of Canada.
  3. Explore the fascinating wildlife with organised trecks & hikes.

PRICE - from £2,343 per night.

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Monastero Santa Rosa, Italy

monastero santa rosa italy

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Enjoy incredible views of the blissful ocean form one of 20 villas at Monastero Santa Rosa based on the Amalfi Coast in Italy.

Partake in a scenic stroll or a cliff side swim with views to remember forever - the perfect getaway to clear your mind and relax completely.

Amenities

  • Cliff Edge Sea Views
  • Outdoor Pool
  • Traditional Outdoor Bar
  • Luxury Ethnic Interiors
  • Indoor Luxury Spa

Highlights

  1. Swimming pool on the cliff edge with incredible view!
  2. Plentiful lounge chairs to
    relax and enjoy the surroundings.
  3. Modern "cocktail area" with huge selection.

PRICE - from £400 per night.

8. Raj Palace Jaipur, India

raj palace jaipur india

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The Raj Palace has four-floor apartments and its own private entrance and elevator, which guests can ride all the way to the top. The top floor has a rooftop terrace, complete with a jacuzzi and unforgettable views of Jaipur.

The second floor also has a private museum displaying the Old Throne and Bolsters of the Thakur Sahib.

Amenities

  • Huge Swimming Pool
  • Traditional Onsite Restaurant
  • Luxury Bar & Lounge
  • Spa Treatments Available
  • Fully Equipped Fitness Centre

Highlights

  1. Champagne on arrival in style.
  2. Luxurious and traditional
    Indian decor and furnishings.
  3. Panoramic views of Jaipur.

PRICE - The palatial suite from £11,321 per night.

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Four Seasons Palace Budapest, Hungary

four seasons hotel budapest

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Enjoy pristine views along the bank of the historic River Danube with a luxurious (and affordable) stay at the Four Seasons Palace in the countries capital of Budapest.

Close to a range of landmarks including the Inner-City Parish Church and St. Stephen’s Basilica, as well as walking distance to many of the cities must-visit ruin bars.

Amenities

  • Indoor Heated Pool
  • Award Winning Restaurant
  • Fully Equipped Fitness Centre
  • Spa Treatments & Hot Tub
  • Free High-Speed WiFi

Highlights

  1. Perfect central location for local sightseeing.
  2. Luxurious decor and furnishings.
  3. The finest dining available including traditional Hungarian dishes.

PRICE - from £468 per night.

9. Suite 5000 New York, USA

suite 5000 new york city

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Suite 5000 is part of the Mandarin Oriental and is so exclusive that you can't find much out about it online, you simply have to be in the know. Located on the 50th floor, a night in the suite has been described as "staying in a sleek, expertly-curated museum of New York culture".

The rooms are inspired by New York City-inspired art and music with the room being stocked with records dating back to the 1930's local music scene.

Amenities

  • Views of New York City
  • Luxury Furnishings
  • NY Art Style Design
  • 75" Flat Screen TV with NY
    Inspired Movies
  • Every Room is Huge!

Highlights

  1. Floor-to-ceiling windows showcase the Manhattan skyline, Central Park &
    Hudson River.
  2. New York City inspired
    interiors by established and emerging contemporary artists.
  3. Dedicated fitness area to stay on top of your exercise.

PRICE - from £21,133 per night.

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Shangri-La Hotel Paris, France

shangri la paris hotel

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The Shangri-La Hotel in Paris boasts over 100 rooms and suites each offering unique Eiffel Tower plus other wonderful Parisian landmarks.

The 19th century gem has been included in the French "Monuments Historiques" whilst also being awarded the "Palace" status back in 2014.

Amenities

  • Direct Eiffel Tower View
  • Luxury Furnishings
  • French Luxury Chic Interiors
  • Indoor Pool & Spa
  • Bar, Lounge & Restaurant

Highlights

  1. Balcony view of Paris
    including the famous Eiffel Tower.
  2. French luxury themed rooms with gorgeous furnishings.
  3. Right in the centre of Paris, perfect for exploring!

PRICE - from £1,075 per night.

10. Two Story Sky Villa Las Vegas, USA

two story sky villa las vegas

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Sat nicely above the chaos of the Las Vegas strip, the 9,000 square foot Sky Villa are quite simply what you'd expect from a high-end Las Vegas accommodation.

Dark interiors, luxury textures, a classic round shaped bed and of course, a private bar - everything you need for the swankiest of trips to the gambling capital.

Amenities

  • One of a Kind Balcony Pool
  • Luxury Furnishings
  • Private Bar
  • Exclusive Views of Las Vegas
  • Bar, Lounge & Restaurant

Highlights

  1. Outdoor swimming pool that extends over the balcony!
  2. Have your own party with a private bar with everything you need.
  3. The most unique views of Las Vegas you can find.

PRICE - from £15,082 per night.

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W London Leicester Square, UK

e-wow suite london

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The "wow suite" in the W London Leicester Square Hotel is a tourists dream in luxury British interiors which includes everything red, white and blue. 

Enjoy precious views of London for this one of a kind suite which includes a huge rounded sofa, wide screen TV and private bar. Ideal for a party!

Amenities

  • Rooftop Views of Soho
  • Mega Bar Experience
  • Bespoke Artwork Throughout
  • 37" Flat Screen TV
  • Private Spa Bath

Highlights

  1. Rooftop views over Leicester Square, Piccadilly and Soho.
  2. Luxury steam bathtub and dual-head rainforest shower.
  3. Complimentary mega bar experience.

PRICE - from £889 per night.


PRICE COMPARISON - HOW MUCH YOU'D SAVE

Number In List

Worlds Most Expensive Holidays

EU Alternative

You'd Save (per night)

1.

The Pikaia Lodge, Ecuador

The Windmill, Greece

£1,758

2.

North Island, Seychelles

Beachside Villa, Fuengirola

£8,132

3.

The Post House, California

Aegean Hills, Turkey

£3,187

4.

Tierra Patagonia, Chile

Villa Lario, Italy

£1,968

5.

The Hilltop Villa, Fiji

Villa Agave, Croatia

£28,500

6.

Villa Manzu, Costa Rica

La Cala de Mijas, Spain

£11,275

7.

Fogo Island Inn, Canada

Monastero Santa Rosa, Italy

£1,943

8.

Raj Palace Jaipur, India

Four Seasons Palace
Budapest, Hungary

£10,853

9.

Suite 5000 New York, USA

Shangri-La Hotel Paris, France

£20,058

10.

Sky Villa Las Vegas, USA

W London Leicester Square, UK

£14,193

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