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Rising Urban Transport Costs: Study Highlights the World’s Most Expensive Cities for Getting Around
A study by Deluxe Holiday Homes finds Amsterdam is the world’s most expensive city for getting around, followed by Berlin and London. European cities dominate the top ten. Transport can make up 10% of a one-week travel budget, with high public transport fares, taxi rates, car rentals, and fuel prices significantly increasing overall travel costs.
Urban transportation costs are playing a growing role in overall travel budgets, according to a recent global study by vacation rentals platform Deluxe Holiday Homes. While travellers often prioritise flights and accommodation, the research shows that local transport can account for a significant share of holiday spending, especially in major global cities.
On average, tourists spend between USD 1,200 and USD 2,400 on a one-week trip, with local transportation typically making up around 10% of that budget. Against this backdrop, Deluxe Holiday Homes set out to identify the cities where getting around is most expensive for both visitors and residents.
A spokesperson from Deluxe Holiday Homes highlights the importance of planning for local mobility costs:
“Transportation prices often get overlooked when friends or families budget for their vacation. People focus on flights and hotels but forget that moving around the city takes a significant chunk of the budget. I always recommend checking local transportation prices beforehand for better planning. If you budget right, these savings can get you one or two nice dinners with your companions.”
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How the Study Measures Transportation Costs
The research examines four key transportation expenses that directly affect daily mobility:
- Taxi fares per kilometre
- Local public transport ticket prices
- Average daily car rental rates
- Fuel prices per litre
Each city receives a score between 0 and 100, reflecting how expensive it is compared with other global destinations. Higher scores indicate higher transportation costs.
The findings show a clear regional trend, with European cities dominating the rankings, accounting for seven of the top ten most expensive destinations.
Amsterdam Tops the Global Ranking
Amsterdam ranks first as the most expensive city in the world for transportation. A single public transport ticket costs nearly USD 4, around double the price seen in many other cities. Taxi fares average USD 3.5 per kilometre, adding to daily expenses.
Driving offers little relief, as car rental rates average USD 139 per day, placing Amsterdam among the costliest cities for both public and private transport options.
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Berlin and London Follow Closely
Berlin takes second place, driven by the highest public transport ticket prices in the study. A single bus or metro ride costs USD 4.45, making routine travel costly for both residents and visitors. Taxi fares stand at around USD 3.28 per kilometre, while fuel prices reach USD 1.99 per litre, approximately 50 cents above the global average.
London ranks third. Public transport tickets cost USD 4.04, slightly lower than Berlin but still among the highest worldwide. Taxi fares average USD 3.37 per kilometre, and travellers opting for car rentals face daily costs exceeding USD 100.
High Costs Beyond Europe: Hong Kong and Tokyo
Hong Kong emerges as the most expensive city globally for car-based travel. While public transport and taxis remain relatively affordable, car rental rates average USD 172 per day, around 50% higher than in Amsterdam. Fuel prices reach USD 3.12 per litre, the highest among the top ten cities.
Tokyo ranks ninth and stands out as the costliest Asian city after Hong Kong. Public transport tickets are comparatively affordable at USD 1.46, but taxi fares rise to USD 3.32 per kilometre. Car rentals average USD 87 per day, adding another layer of expense for visitors.
Southern and Central Europe: Milan, Paris, Barcelona and Vienna
Milan ranks fifth overall. A single public transport ticket costs USD 2.57, with taxis charging the same rate per kilometre. Car rentals average USD 105 per day, while fuel prices stand at USD 2.09 per litre, making driving a costly option.
Paris follows in sixth place. A single journey on public transport costs USD 2.92, higher than most European cities. Taxi fares start at USD 2.26 per kilometre, and fuel prices reach USD 2.14 per litre, keeping overall transport costs elevated.
Barcelona also features among the most expensive cities. Travellers pay nearly USD 3 for a metro or bus ticket, and taxis charge USD 2.57 per kilometre. Although car rental rates are lower at around USD 70 per day, fuel prices of USD 1.81 per litre reduce potential savings.
Vienna ranks eighth. Taxi fares average USD 1.87 per kilometre, about 30 cents higher than many popular destinations. Public transport costs USD 2.81 per ride, while car rentals average USD 98 per day, combined with fuel prices of USD 1.82 per litre.
Dublin Completes the Top Ten
Dublin takes tenth place. Taxi fares average USD 1.67 per kilometre, and a single public transport ride costs USD 2.34. Travellers who choose to drive face fuel prices of up to USD 2.06 per litre, further increasing transport expenses.
