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In this article, we compare the best-known international hotspots with the situation in Austria. We show current price estimates and provide important safety tips for anyone who is traveling or simply wants to find out more. Published on: 22. May 2026

The world's best-known cities for prostitution and sex tourism (with average prices)

Nachtstadt mit beleuchtetem Kirchturm, historischen Gebäuden und einem großen, leuchtenden Riesenrad im Hintergrund.

Austria is one of the countries with well-regulated sex work. Before the coronavirus pandemic, there were estimated to be around 7,000 to 8,000 sex workers in the country. After the pandemic, the number of sex workers known to or registered with the authorities fell to around 5,000 to 6,000. In addition, it is estimated that around 2,000 to 3,000 people work illegally (e.g. in private apartments or hotels). The majority are concentrated in Vienna, followed by cities such as Linz, Graz and Salzburg. Many of the people working are migrants.

The prices in Austria are usually between 80 and 250 € for an hour, depending on the offer and setting (brothels and brothels are often cheaper, high-quality escorts correspondingly more expensive).

If you are traveling or just want to compare for the sake of interest, here are the best-known international

Hotspots for sex tourism:

  1. 🇹🇭 Bangkok (Thailand)

One of the world's most famous metropolises for international sex tourism. The red light districts in particular, such as Nana Plaza or Soi Cowboy, attract thousands of visitors every year.

💰 Average price: 30 - 150 $

👥 Estimated number of prostitutes in Thailand: 250,000 - 300,000

🇹🇭 Pattaya (Thailand)

Often referred to as one of the "sex capitals" of the world. Walking Street and the many bars make Pattaya extremely accessible.

💰 Average price: 25 - 120 $

👥 Estimated number of prostitutes in Thailand: 250,000 - 300,000

🇵🇭 Manila (Philippines)

Strong scene in certain night districts and tourist areas. Particularly popular with western tourists.

💰 Average price: 30 - 85 $

👥 Estimated number of prostitutes in the Philippines: 400,000 - 500,000

🇯🇵 Tokyo (Japan)

Kabukicho and other neighborhoods are known for their strong adult entertainment industry (hostesses, soaplands, etc.).

💰 Average price: 200 - 450 $

👥 Estimated number of prostitutes in Japan: 150,000 - 300,000

🇳🇱 Amsterdam (Netherlands)

Famous for the regulated Red Light District. Prostitution is legal and transparent here.

💰 Average price: 100 - 300 €

👥 Estimated number of prostitutes in the Netherlands: 20,000 - 30,000

🇩🇪 Berlin (Germany)

Nachtstadtansicht mit beleuchteten Hochhäusern, im Hintergrund der Fernsehturm Berlin.

Germany has one of the largest sex industries in Europe. Berlin offers everything from brothels to exclusive escorts.

💰 Average price: 80 - 250 €

👥 Estimated number of prostitutes in Germany: 350,000 - 400,000

🇪🇸 Barcelona (Spain)

Spain is one of the countries with a very active scene, especially in Barcelona with many clubs and street activities.

💰 Average price: 80 - 250 €

👥 Estimated number of prostitutes in Spain: 300,000 - 350,000

🇧🇷 Rio de Janeiro (Brazil)

Strongly associated with tourism and nightlife, especially during Carnival.

💰 Average price: 40 - 150 $

👥 Estimated number of prostitutes in Brazil: 500,000 - 1 million

🇲🇽 Tijuana (Mexico)

Border town to the USA - known for its lively and inexpensive sex industry.

💰 Average price: 30 - 100 $

👥 Estimated number of prostitutes in Mexico: 250,000 - 500,000

🇺🇸 Las Vegas (USA)

The city of sin thrives on escort services and adult entertainment. Prices are significantly higher here.

💰 Average price: 300 - 1,000 $

👥 Estimated number of prostitutes in the USA: 1 - 2 million

Five important tips for safe sex tourism

Schild mit goldenen Symbolen: Kondom, Kreuz, Schloss, Standort-Pin und Händedruck auf dunklem Hintergrund.

  1. Health first Always use condoms (preferably branded ones you have brought with you). Get tested for STIs before and after your trip. Many popular destinations have an increased risk of HIV, gonorrhea or syphilis. If necessary, consider PrEP or PEP and consult a doctor.
  2. Check the legal situation Find out about the country's laws in advance. What is tolerated in Thailand or the Philippines can be severely punished in other countries. In some places, it is only legal to sell sex, but not to buy it - or vice versa.
  3. Personal safety Never go with a lot of cash or valuables. Don't drink excessively so that you can make clear decisions. Use apps like Uber/taxis instead of unknown transportation and share your location with a trusted person.
  4. Make clear agreements Discuss the price, duration and desired services clearly and in a friendly manner beforehand. Respect boundaries and "no-goes". Respectful interaction usually leads to better experiences for both sides.
  5. Read current reviews and trust your gut feeling - if in doubt, it's better to cancel.
Hannes Obermoser