The Swiss private bank, Julius Baer, has produced a report to find out which cities are the most expensive in the world, taking into account factors such as real estate investment, as well as the trends in the prices of other 'prime' products and services . Here are the destinations not to be missed if you have money to spare, or perhaps to keep away from if you are counting the pennies, and Milan, Italy's capital of fashion has made the list.
The top spot on the list is perhaps unsurprisingly occupied by Hong Kong. It is known that living in the Asian city is expensive and this ranking does nothing but confirm it. 2nd place is occupied by Shanghai and 3rd by Tokyo, and as you can see, it turns out that the three top steps of the podium have been taken over by Asian cities.
As we continue though the list of most expensive cities if you want a life of luxury, New York features in 4th place, followed by Singapore and Los Angeles. Then, London is in 7th place, Taipei in 8th and Zurich in 9th, with the top 10 being rounded off by the Principality of Monaco.
The first and only Italian addition to the list is Milan, placed in the 19th spot. Known as the capital of fashion, Milan is therefore confirmed to be an Italian city where beauty services are expensive. Beauty and fashion are of course not all Milan has to offer, as we look the real estate market, where Milan is one of Italy's most expensive areas to buy a property, with the market for luxury homes marking a recovery, especially in areas such as Porta Romana, Castello, Pagano, Magenta, Sant'Ambrogio and Brera.
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Castello Thomson: a rare opportunity to own a historic Lake Como castle for €9,995,000
Situated in the prestigious Carate Urio, Castello Thomson is a one-of-a-kind property that perfectly blends history with luxury. Originally built atop a 9th-century tower, this extraordinary estate has been transformed into a magnificent residence by the renowned Venetian architect Tobia Scarpa. For those seeking the ultimate in exclusivity, the property on the market for €9,995,000 and listed on idealista offers an unparalleled opportunity to own a historic castle overlooking the stunning Lak
Big spenders from abroad favour villas in Italy (especially on Lake Como or in Tuscany)
In some of Italy’s most exclusive areas, the majority of demand for luxury villas or apartments (with average prices exceeding one and a half million euros) comes from foreign buyers. This is revealed by a report from idealista/data, which also highlights that the top 10 most sought-after locations among wealthy buyers worldwide for single-family homes consist solely of towns in Tuscany or on Lake Como.
Luxury in Italy: "Foreign investors continue to see Italy as a safe and prestigious destination"
On the other side of the property market—closely linked to credit and its uncertainties—the luxury real estate sector continues to thrive, showing no signs of slowing down even this year. But why? What drives the dynamics of such a complex segment?
The buying process for luxury properties in Italy
Italy is renowned for its captivating landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and luxurious lifestyle. If you’re considering purchasing a luxury property in this stunning country, the process may seem daunting, but with the right knowledge and guidance, it can be a smooth and exciting journey. In this article, we will walk you through the essential steps of the buying process for luxury properties in Italy, from understanding the market to finalising the deal.
The most sought-after ski resorts in Italy for luxury real estate
The charm of the mountains and luxury ski resorts continues to attract the attention of international investors. According to the Ski Report 2025 by Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices, the stunning landscapes of Northern Italy are once again in the spotlight, having seen a significant rise in the value of luxury real estate in mountain resorts and lakeside areas, driven by steadily growing demand.
Exclusive modern villa with Lake Garda views in Torri del Benaco
Nestled in the scenic hills of Torri del Benaco, this extraordinary modern villa offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, comfort, and breathtaking views of Lake Garda. Priced at €3,000,000, this property stands out as a true masterpiece for those seeking refined living in one of Italy’s most enchanting regions.