Famous Casinos around the world

Comparing European casinos with their American equivalents, the distinction is clear. When it comes to design, locations and traditions, there is no competition between the two. The history and heritage present in European casinos with their architectural styles and astonishing views create a unique backdrop to gambling, whereas American casinos are only trying to recreate the cultural environments of European cities, such as Paris and Venice. While America might win in the brightest lights and grand entertainment front, Europe does it in style!

Therefore, we have made a short introduction of casinos on the old continent we find most beautiful. In making the listing, different aspects, such as architecture, interior design, as well as the surroundings, were taken into account. As a result, we came up with the following four.

Ca’ Vendramin Calergi, Venice, Italy 

Overlooking the luminous Grand Canal, Ca’ Vendramin Calergi is one of the most elegant buildings of Venice. It is part of Casinò di Venezia, the oldest gaming establishment in the world. Since its establishment in 1638, it has been divided into two separate venues. One of them is Ca’ Vendramin Calergi.

The casino building itself is a perfect example of a Renaissance style stately home, having been acting earlier as the residence of the chief magistrates in the former Republic of Venice. Situated right in the historic centre of beautiful Venice, you may arrive at Ca’ Vendramin Calergi by waterway and walk down a pier to the charming canal-side entrance.

The interior of the casino is simply magnificent. The historical building offers an unforgettable environment for gambling with both French and American games, as well as the modern slot machines. The old classics from Roulette to card games are all there.

The sophisticated environment calls for a dresscode. In the gaming rooms and by the tables men must wear a jacket, which can also be borrowed from the casino’s cloakroom. All visitors should generally dress in a respectable manner.

As an icing on the stunning Venetian cake, visitors can dine at the renowned Wagner Restaurant which occupies the colourful rooms of the Palazzo, the Functions Room on the main floor as well as the breath-taking garden overlooking the canal.

Casino de Monte Carlo, Monaco

This establishment would also have to be at the top of the list for those in search of luxury and elegance. If you appreciate architectural beauty, you will love this location. Besides offering a stunning backdrop to gambling, Casino de Monte Carlo with its historical environment appears to take the visitor back in time.

When it comes to the games, there are more titles available here than anywhere else in the world. The number of slot machines is also higher here than in any other casino in Europe. The various ‘salles’, meaning gaming rooms, are each more beautiful than the other.

On the interior, this is perhaps the most beautiful casino of them all. The only thing more opulent than its architecture and the perfect location by the Mediterranean is the lavish interior design that surrounds the table games and slot machines. The gilded paintings and historical statues underneath magnificent chandeliers decorating the room create a truly dignified and precious atmosphere to play in. Here you can also see the most glamorous players.

Perhaps the best part is a terrace where you get access to through the Salle Blanche: you will be blown away by the most amazing views over the sea and the Riviera, with the most stylish people sipping on their gin and tonics around you.

Casino de Monte Carlo has become an integral part of the Monacan life and heritage. Displaying the architectural style of Belle Epoque, the casino attracts international clientele all year round due to its splendid décor. This casino is simply legendary and has managed to blend the old times’ glamour with the modern times’ requirements concerning the games.

The overall experience of wandering around in different rooms of the casino is somewhat surreal as if you were in a living museum. It is no wonder that the magnificent surroundings of Casino de Monte Carlo have attracted even fashion show organisers to hold their events there.

Casino Porto Carras, Halkidiki, Greece

Compared to many others, Casino Porto Carras is a relatively new casino resort. It has only been operating for 35 years but offers an interesting option for those searching for a casino-related holiday in Europe. At Porto Carras, combining gambling with relaxing in the sun and lounging by the pool or the seaside is exceptionally easy. Being in Greece, culture and history are never far away, while the atmosphere at Porto Carras has been described as reminding that of New Orleans.

The resort includes two 5 star hotels. It is situated on the stunning Greek coast, in the perfect climate zone, offering excellent possibilities for all kind of entertainment besides gambling. There’s a golf course, Horse Riding Academy, Tennis Club, Nautical Club, two Thalassotherapy & Spa Centers, New Orleans bar and a nightclub, among other things.

If you desire to make an entrance in style, you can choose between the waterways or a helicopter ride. The centre of Thessaloniki, the second largest city in Greece, is also nearby.

In the surrounding area of Porto Carras, there is an olive grove of 45 000 trees as well as Greece’s largest organic vineyard. The dazzling blue of the Toroneos Gulf together with the rising slopes of Mt. Meliton amongst the verdant landscape and sandy beaches create an unforgettable setting for any visitor. Furthermore, the picturesque natural setting is complemented by sights and monuments of archaeological interest.

As a special gem, there is Villa Galini, built on the Galani Hill in the 1970s. It displays a sample of unique architectural beauty, furnished with exceptional monastic furniture and unique artworks.

Porto Carras resort is also famous for its green policy, with organic cultivation, recycling, and product quality control all in place. Furthermore, the Marina gets awarded each year with the International mark of the Blue Flag.

Casino Baden-Baden, Baden-Baden, Germany

Perhaps the most precious of them all, Casino Baden-Baden in the town of Baden-Baden, Germany, is an architectural pearl. This French-style chateau was famously quoted by Marlene Dietrich herself as ‘the most beautiful casino’. The interiors designed by Parisian designers, the building has the perfect setting too, with the backdrop of the Black Forest.

Casino Baden-Baden has a rather old-fashioned take on the casino-operating, which in these days of online casinos and tacky slot machines is quite charming. For example, they only let you enter if you are dressed the part, meaning men are requested to wear a jacket and a shirt, with tie greatly appreciated. Otherwise, you will have to rent the attire from the casino. For the slot machines, neat, casual clothing is acceptable. You will also be required to switch off your mobile phone as not to distract the patrons.

Casino Baden-Baden was once the epitome of European bathing and spa culture, attracting Europe’s high society for a carefree summer at this elegant building that earned Baden-Baden the reputation as Europe’s summer capital. Strolling around on the grounds and gathering around the tables for a game of cards formed a whole way of life for the upper class.

The casino has since been modernised gently while keeping its historical charm. Under the historic vaulted ceilings, you will find the latest high-tech operations. The legendary setting has attracted gamblers for two centuries already.

Even today at Casino Baden-Baden, you will find a spa, horse-racing and casino. You can also spend your spare time eyeing art in the Austrian salon, strolling in the oriental style winter garden, or marvelling at the red room inspired by Fontainebleau and Versailles. The splendour of the old times’ seems to have managed to survive to this day.

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