Paris, France

With a long history and an influential role in the shaping of both Europe and the New World, Paris has earned a reputation as a city of romance; helped by the city’s quaint café culture, the French love of pastries, wine and chocolate and images of the iconic Eiffel Tower lit up in night. Adding to the popular French city’s appeal is the number of royal castles and lavish cathedrals, many dating from the Middle Ages, that offer history buffs, architecture enthusiasts and even the average tourist an exciting sight-seeing adventure.

All of the popularity of Paris, however, has also culminated to the city becoming one of the world’s most expensive tourist destinations. Banking on its reputation as being lavish and romantic, Paris hotels tend to go all out—which means that they also come with a hefty price tag. Some historical residences, including palaces, have been converted to hotels. One hotel charges around $26,000 for the privilege of staying just one night with them.