Think grabbing a quick photo or spending an hour inside a museum sounds harmless? Not when the parking lot charges more than your lunch. Some of the world's most iconic tourist spots come with jaw-dropping parking fees that can seriously mess with your travel budget. Before you hit the road or pull into that garage, here's a look at places where parking comes with serious sticker shock.
Hong Kong
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Locals know that space is tight in Hong Kong, but visitors are usually stunned when they find out that parking costs more than some apartments. In places like Central, you're looking at over $700 a month for a single spot, and that's if you can find one at all.
New Orleans, USA
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If you're heading to the French Quarter, bring cash and maybe some luck. Parking garages near Bourbon Street can run $40 for a few hours, and spots vanish fast during festivals. It's part of the experience, but it'll leave your wallet feeling like it partied somewhat hard.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
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Tourists in Rio de Janeiro often get caught off guard when they find attendants asking for cash upfront to "watch" their cars. While official street parking is affordable, many avoid the hassle of using garages. It's easier than negotiating with a guy in flip-flops waving a hand-painted sign.
Sicily, Italy
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Exploring Sicily's historic towns sounds dreamy until you drive into a ZTL zone without a permit. That'll earn you a fine instead of a photo op. Parking anywhere near the action often means a $6 daily pass, and good luck finding a legal spot that won't get you towed.
Marrakech, Morocco
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Visitors in Marrakech have to circle endlessly for a parking spot. The city has official lots charging about $0.20 an hour, but rates tend to fluctuate if you look too much like a tourist. Locals recommend carrying small change and some attitude.
Jaipur, India
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Palaces and forts are everywhere in Jaipur, but parking lots are few and far between. Amer Fort charges $0.60, and Jaigarh bumps it to $1.20. It's not outrageous, but the crowds and heat make it feel worse. Some travelers skip the stress and hop on tuk-tuks to save time and nerves.
Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles
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If you're hiking up to Griffith for the views and science, you might spend longer hunting for a space than stargazing. Parking fills fast and costs more during peak hours. Locals park below and ride the DASH shuttle for 50 cents. It's cheaper and doesn't involve circling hills for half an hour.
Buckingham Palace, London, UK
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Every tourist wants a photo with the guards, but no one tells you parking near Buckingham Palace is a wallet trap. Street spots are rare, and garages nearby can charge nearly $25 a day.
Grand Central Terminal, New York City
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Considering the overall cost of living in NYC, it’s no surprise that parking near the Grand Central isn't cheap. Rates can hit over $50 for a few hours in garages close to the terminal. Locals swear by the subway for a reason. It's faster than battling Midtown traffic with a ticking meter.
Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam
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Tourists flock to see the genius of Van Gogh and rarely leave disappointed. The quiet shock comes afterward when they see the parking receipt. Nearby lots charge over $45 for a 12-hour stay. Amsterdam's trams and bikes are the smarter way to avoid draining your museum day budget.
Times Square, New York City
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Every street corner flashes with ads, and every step feels like a movie scene. Then, like everything that’s too good to be true, you try to pull into a garage, and the rates spike to $46 for a few hours. Times Square may be walkable, but parking nearby eats into your Broadway money fast.
Louvre Museum, Paris
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You could spend all day getting lost among masterpieces at the Louvre without ever looking at your watch. That's how the parking meter wins. The official underground lot charges $3.75 an hour, and tourists often lose track of time. Locals know the Metro saves both money and museum guilt.
Empire State Building, New York City
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Once you've stared out across Manhattan from the 86th floor, it's easy to forget everything else—until you hit the garage. Nearby spots reach up to $47, and that's for simply a few hours. The subway may not come with views, but your wallet will thank you afterward.
Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen
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You're probably here for the fairy lights and roller coasters, but parking can feel like a trick ride. Expect to shell out about $33 for six hours. Tivoli's charm is still worth it, but many travelers prefer biking like the locals do.