16 Tourist Attractions With the Priciest Parking Fees Worldwide

Think a quick photo or an hour inside a museum is harmless? Not when the parking bill costs more than your lunch. Some of the world’s most visited attractions come with surprisingly steep parking fees that can blow up a travel budget. Before you hop in the car or pull into a lot, here are notable destinations where parking often comes with sticker shock—and practical notes to help you plan.

Hong Kong

Space is at a premium in Hong Kong. In central districts like Central or Causeway Bay, monthly parking for a single space can exceed the cost of rent in other cities. Short-term parking is also expensive and scarce, so consider public transit or ride-hailing to avoid hefty parking charges and long searches for a spot.

New Orleans, USA

Parking around the French Quarter—especially near Bourbon Street—can be surprisingly expensive. During busy weekends and festivals, garage rates of $40 or more for a few hours are common, and on-street spaces disappear quickly. If you plan to visit during an event, factor parking into your budget or use public transportation and streetcars where possible.

Rio de Janeiro, Brazil

In Rio, tourists sometimes encounter informal attendants who offer to “watch” cars for cash. Official parking can be reasonably priced, but many visitors avoid the uncertainty of informal arrangements and seek guarded garages instead. Carry small bills and confirm official rates to avoid misunderstandings.

Sicily, Italy

Driving through historic Sicilian towns can lead you into restricted ZTL (zona traffico limitato) zones if you don’t have a permit, which results in fines rather than a pleasant photo stop. Paid parking near main attractions often requires a daily fee, and legal curbside spaces can be limited. Research parking rules and look for designated lots outside restricted zones to avoid penalties.

Marrakech, Morocco

Marrakech’s medina is charming but congested, and finding a parking space can mean circling for a long time. Official lots charge only small hourly rates, yet prices and service can vary near tourist hotspots. Bringing small change and being prepared for a brisk negotiation or porter service will help you secure parking without a fuss.

Jaipur, India

Jaipur’s landmarks are abundant but formal parking can be limited. Fees at popular sites like Amer Fort and Jaigarh are modest by international standards, but crowds and high temperatures can make parking stressful. Many visitors choose tuk-tuks or guided transfers to avoid searching for a spot and to save time.

Griffith Observatory, Los Angeles

Parking near Griffith Observatory fills early, particularly on weekends and clear evenings. Rates can rise during peak times, and many visitors opt to park lower on the hill and take the DASH shuttle for a small fare. That approach saves time and spares you from driving in steep, crowded loops looking for a space.

Buckingham Palace, London, UK

Parking in central London is limited and costly. Near Buckingham Palace, on-street spaces are rare and local garages can charge the equivalent of nearly $25 or more per day. Public transport is usually a better option when visiting royal landmarks and busy central neighborhoods.

Grand Central Terminal, New York City

Parking near Grand Central Terminal is expensive, reflecting Midtown Manhattan’s high real estate costs. Garage rates for a few hours often exceed $50. For many visitors, the subway or commuter rail is faster, cheaper, and avoids Midtown traffic and high short-term parking fees.

Van Gogh Museum, Amsterdam

Parking close to major museums like the Van Gogh Museum can be pricey. Nearby parking garages may charge over $45 for a long daytime stay, making Amsterdam’s extensive tram network, bike rentals, and walking routes a cost-effective alternative for museum days.

Times Square, New York City

Times Square is highly walkable, but nearby parking garages often charge steep short-term rates—commonly $40 to $50 for a few hours. If you’re seeing a Broadway show or exploring Midtown, public transit and walking are usually more convenient and far less costly than parking in the heart of the theater district.

Louvre Museum, Paris

The Louvre’s underground parking charges by the hour and can add up quickly if you linger among the galleries. Hourly rates and event pricing make the Metro or bus attractive alternatives for museum visits, saving money and avoiding the stress of finding and paying for extended parking.

Empire State Building, New York City

Parking around the Empire State Building and nearby Midtown locations is expensive, with short-term rates often climbing into the $40s. To avoid high fees and traffic, travelers commonly use the subway or plan to park outside central Manhattan and take public transit in.

Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen

Parking near Tivoli Gardens can be costly for a day visit, and many travelers prefer Copenhagen’s efficient bike infrastructure or public transit. Expect to pay significant fees for long daytime stays near this popular amusement park in the city center.

Sydney Opera House, Australia

Parking near the Sydney Opera House and Circular Quay can be pricey, especially during performances and events. Garage fees commonly range from $25 to $35 for a few hours, and event surcharges can raise the total further. Public transport, ferries, or walking along the harbor are more economical and often quicker options.

Statue of Liberty, Battery Park, NYC

You can’t park on Liberty Island, so visitors leave vehicles near Battery Park before taking the ferry. Parking in lower Manhattan often carries steep short-term rates—commonly $40 to $60 for a few hours. If you’re heading to the Statue of Liberty, consider public transit or a longer-stay lot outside the downtown core to keep costs down.

Across the globe, iconic sights often sit in high-demand areas where land is limited and parking is a premium. When planning visits, check local parking rules, consider public transit, book parking in advance when possible, and weigh alternatives like shuttles, bike rentals, or ride services. That way you can enjoy the sights without an unwelcome surprise on the final bill.