13 'Expensive' Cities You Can Actually Visit on a Tight Budget

While cities like Zurich, London, and New York certainly can drain your wallet, experiencing their true essence often lies beyond the ultra-luxury hotels and Michelin-starred meals. The secret is traveling smarter, not richer – embracing local haunts, leveraging free attractions, and finding value where most tourists overlook it. We've significantly expanded our list, uncovering 13 hidden gems across diverse global cities. Get ready to learn how to navigate these "expensive" destinations like a savvy local, proving that unforgettable urban adventures and cultural immersion are absolutely possible, even on a tight budget. Let's unlock affordable access to the world's greatest cities.

1. Zurich, Switzerland: Alpine Views & Free Wheels

Switzerland's financial hub screams expensive, but you can bypass pricey taxis with free bike rentals ("Züri Rollt," seasonal) to explore the charming Altstadt (Old Town). Skip costly lake cruises; join locals swimming in the clean Lake Zurich or Limmat River during summer for free. Enjoy stunning, free city and Alpine views from Lindenhof hill or ETH Zurich's Polyterrasse. For affordable eats, hit the university "Mensa" cafeterias (open to public, check times) or grab delicious picnic supplies from Coop or Migros supermarkets to enjoy lakeside.