Luxembourg Beats Milan and Paris: Discover Which Countries Tourists Are Spending the Most in 2025!

Published on December 10, 2025

Traveling often comes with a hefty price tag for many individuals. From airfare and accommodation costs to daily expenses, tourists frequently need to plan and save up in advance to visit their dream destinations, particularly those known for being pricey. In addition to transportation and lodging, shopping tends to be a significant part of the budget for many travelers. This raises an interesting question: which country sees the highest spending from tourists on shopping?

Surprisingly, Luxembourg, a small European country, takes the top spot. Despite its size, it outshines famous fashion capitals such as Milan and Paris in terms of shopping expenditure by visitors. According to insights from Go2Africa, a leading travel website, Luxembourg holds the crown for the highest tourist spending on shopping, surpassing even the fashion giants known for their shopping districts.

Luxembourg: A Shopper’s Haven

As per the Luxembourg City Tourist Office, the city is known for its shopper-friendly environment. Tourists can enjoy leisurely strolls through pedestrian-friendly zones in the heart of the city, offering access to a wide range of local stores and renowned international brands. Whether it’s fashion, beauty, health, food, or household goods, Luxembourg has it all. Additionally, the city offers special weekend sales several times a year, making it an attractive destination for those looking to indulge in retail therapy.

The allure of Luxembourg isn’t limited to its shopping culture but extends to its ambiance, making it a welcoming destination for those seeking to spend money on retail items. The accessibility to both luxury brands and local boutiques ensures that tourists can easily find something for everyone, whether they are interested in high-end fashion or unique local goods.

How Rankings Are Determined

The rankings of tourist spending destinations are not based on the popularity of a destination alone but are calculated by evaluating the total income generated from tourism in a country relative to the number of tourists visiting. As reported by USA Today, Go2Africa has outlined a method where they divide the total tourism income by the number of tourists in a given year. This analysis uses data collected from official tourism bodies, government ministries, and relevant reports to gauge the economic impact of tourism in various regions.

According to Megan Dominion, a spokesperson from Go2Africa, the findings reveal a crucial insight for travelers: “The average expenditure of tourists in a country can serve as a reliable indicator of how expensive a destination will be.” She elaborates that checking the average expenditure per tourist is a great way to determine whether a destination is more affordable or costly.

Luxembourg’s Leading Position in Tourist Spending

In Luxembourg, the average tourist spends approximately $5,112, which equates to around 85 million Indonesian Rupiah (Rp). This substantial amount places Luxembourg far ahead of many other destinations where shopping expenses are concerned. However, Luxembourg isn’t the only destination where tourists are known to spend a considerable amount.

Other countries that follow close behind Luxembourg in terms of tourist expenditure include Lebanon, where the average tourist spends $4,155 (about 69.3 million Rp), and Saint Lucia, which sees an average expenditure of $2,984 (roughly 49.7 million Rp). These figures highlight a trend in smaller, less conventional travel destinations also becoming popular shopping hubs for travelers looking to make the most of their vacations.

Countries with Minimal Shopping Expenditure

On the opposite end of the spectrum, some countries experience minimal spending from tourists on shopping. Vatican City, for example, sees an average expenditure of only $15 (roughly 250,000 Rp). Eswatini follows closely with $21 (around 350,000 Rp), while Algeria registers $37 (approximately 616,700 Rp) in tourist shopping expenses.

These low figures do not necessarily imply that these destinations are less valuable for tourists. Rather, the reduced shopping expenditure may be attributed to factors such as the local tourism industry being less commercialized, shorter stays, or lower living costs. Furthermore, travelers may be spending their money on experiences rather than shopping in these locations, which could contribute to the overall low spending figures.

Beyond Just the Cost of Shopping

It is important for travelers to recognize that the cost of a destination is not solely determined by shopping expenditures. As Megan Dominion points out, the flow of money spent in certain destinations plays a crucial role in how that money is utilized. In some countries, tourist dollars mainly support large international corporations, while in other regions, expenditures may directly contribute to local businesses and community-driven conservation efforts. This distinction helps tourists make more informed decisions about where to spend their money, ensuring that their contributions benefit the local culture and environment.

Conclusion: What Tourists Should Consider

When planning a trip, tourists often focus on the financial aspect of their journey. While Luxembourg has earned a reputation for its high shopping expenditures, it’s essential for travelers to take a holistic view of the destinations they visit. Factors such as local culture, the impact of tourism on the community, and the overall experience should also be considered when evaluating a destination.

Tourists should also bear in mind that while some countries like Luxembourg may appear to be expensive, others offer a more affordable yet enriching experience. The key is to balance enjoyment, budget, and the destination’s economic impact, ensuring a rewarding travel experience.