No matter where you travel, expanding your budget can transform your vacation into something truly memorable. While some cities are ideal for those on a budget, others have a reputation for being expensive and it’s these in particular where a little extra cash can really make a difference. If you’re looking to splurge, here are five cities to visit if you have a little extra money.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Reykjavik, Iceland’s delightful capital, isn’t cheap. Although it’s possible to cut corners to make your money go further, you’ll relish having some additional króna in your purse. Use it to fund trips out into the surrounding countryside, where you will quickly understand why this mid-Atlantic nation is often referred to as the Land of Fire and Ice. Be lowered into a dormant volcano, take a thrilling helicopter ride to view recently cooled lava from the air, ride a snowmobile over the surface of a glacier or step inside a glittering ice cave. Afterwards, indulge yourself at the luxurious Sky Lagoon, whose infinity edge pool overlooks the sea, or stay at the Art Deco-inspired Hotel Borg or cocooned in the contemporary sophistication of the Reykjavik EDITION. Dine in style at Dill, the country’s first Michelin-star restaurant, where Icelandic ingredients are allowed to shine through exquisitely simple dishes.

Dubai, UAE

Wealthy developers have revolutionized the cityscape of Dubai over the last few decades, turning what was once a low-rise backwater into a futuristic forest of glass and steel. The pinnacle-like form of Burj Khalifa dominates the skyline, and it's there that you should get your bearings from its record-breaking observation deck and lounge located 1,919 feet above the sidewalk. Back at ground level, there’s no shortage of places to stay, especially if you shell out a little extra.

When it opened more than two decades ago, the press heralded Burj Al Arab as the world’s first seven-star hotel, though technically it earns five. Since then, this Jumeirah landmark has faced stiff competition from resorts such as Atlantis, One&Only and Raffles over on the neighborhood’s prestigious Palm development. With cash to splash, travelers can enjoy an endless range of activities and attractions. Book a desert-based adventure and try dune bashing, quad biking or sand-boarding. Soar above the dunes in a hot air balloon. Back in the city, you can even enjoy indoor skiing. Before you leave, take an abra ride across Dubai Creek to buy some souvenir jewelery from the Gold Souk.

Sydney, Australia

Though Sydney isn’t unattainable for those on a budget, a bit of extra cash will help you enjoy Australia’s largest city even more, particularly after you’ve already paid for the airfare. Deep pockets secure you a room overlooking one of the most incredible views on the planet: Sydney’s famous harbor. Treat yourself to a private bridge climb over what locals dub “The Coathanger” or cruise beneath it as you drink a champagne toast in a superyacht. Companies like Ultimately Sydney and Sydney Seaplanes specialize in bespoke experiences, such as a private picnic on Clark Island, or a decadent lunch at Jonah’s at Whale Beach. Private tours to the Hunter Valley wine growing region or the chance to immerse yourself in nature in the Blue Mountains can also be arranged. After dark, continue to embrace the VIP lifestyle as you occupy the best seats in the house for a performance at the city’s iconic Opera House.

Paris, France

Audrey Hepburn allegedly once said “Paris is always a good idea,” but the French capital has never been cheap to visit. And if you’re planning a trip this summer, hotel rates are set to soar thanks to its role as host of the Olympics. In addition, the French government announced its intention to increase the city’s nightly tourist tax to raise some much-needed revenue. Nevertheless, if you find yourself with a little extra cash, tour agencies in the City of Light aren’t short of suggestions about how you might spend it. From gourmet cooking classes to shopping expeditions with a personal stylist, this city knows how to take luxe travel to the next level. Even the Louvre offers after-hours tours with a professional art historian. Perhaps most fun of all would be the chance to get behind the wheel of a classic Citroen 2CV and explore arty Montmartre and Pigalle, home to both the Moulin Rouge and the Sacré Coeur.

Tokyo, Japan

Now’s the time to take advantage of the weak yen with a trip to Tokyo. Japan’s pricey capital has long been thought of as being one of the most expensive cities in the world, but in 2023 it lost around 11% of its value against the U.S. dollar. Even so, a room in one of the city’s swankiest hotels can cost in excess of $1000 a night, though experiencing traditional Japanese omotenashi (hospitality) at luxury ryokan Hoshinoya Tokyo often runs under $400. Accruing some savings before you splurge will make a serious difference to your vacation. You’ll need to get your skates if you’re keen to savour Waygu beef at the Park Hyatt’s New York Grill which featured in the movie Lost in Translation; the hotel closes for a year-long refurbishment in May 2024. Dining somewhere special after that won’t be a problem: Tokyo is home to the largest number of Michelin-starred restaurants in the world. Before you head for home, blow what’s left off the budget on a shopping spree in the designer boutiques of Ginza or the electronics stores in Akihabara.