Maldives · tool
How much does Malé cost?
Daily budget breakdown across three tiers — so you can realistically plan your Malé trip before you book anything.
Malé, Maldives travel budget
Realistic daily cost per person across three spending tiers. All figures in USD.
Budget
Hostels, street food, public transit
Guesthouse room or basic shared accommodation.
Local cafes, street food, and simple eateries.
Public ferries between islands and local buses within Malé.
Exploring local markets, mosques, and public beaches.
Souvenirs, water, and incidentals.
Mid-range
3-star hotels, mix of restaurants, some taxis
Comfortable 3-star hotel or a well-appointed Airbnb.
Mix of local restaurants and mid-range tourist-oriented eateries.
Taxis within Malé, occasional speedboat transfers.
Snorkeling trips, island hopping tours, museum visits.
Shopping, drinks, and personal expenses.
Luxury
4-5 star hotels, premium dining, private transfers
4-5 star hotel or a private villa.
Fine dining, gourmet meals, and premium beverages.
Private transfers, luxury speedboats, or seaplane transfers.
Private yacht excursions, diving, spa treatments.
High-end shopping, exclusive experiences, and gratuities.
Destination-specific money tips
- •USD is widely accepted, especially in tourist areas and resorts. It's often easier to pay in USD than to exchange for MVR for smaller purchases.
- •While ATMs are available in Malé, withdrawal fees can be high. It's best to withdraw larger sums if needed, or rely on credit cards where accepted.
- •Be aware that prices in tourist islands and resorts are significantly higher than in Malé. Factor in transfer costs when comparing accommodation prices.
- •Alcohol is generally not available on local islands (including Malé) but is readily available on resort islands. Purchasing alcohol duty-free upon arrival at the airport is an option.
- •Tipping is not obligatory, but a small tip (5-10%) for exceptional service at resorts or for guides is appreciated.