When you think of a casino, you might think of flashing bright lights and noisy slot machines – maybe even the sound of coins hitting the tray and shouts from roulette tables.
But not every casino fits this stereotypical visualisation. Instead of plucking your expectations straight from the Las Vegas strip, you might want to unearth a different type of gaming experience. A casino that is elegant, sophisticated and situated in an ornate building with historic merit.
We’re here to discuss some of the best casinos in Europe with a sophisticated aura. If you want to dress to the nines and enjoy the venue just as much as the games, these European gaming establishments are for you.
1. Casino de Monte-Carlo, Monaco
This Monaco casino was opened in 1850 to make money for the royal family of Monaco. So there is no surprise that it has been decorated with lavish crystal chandeliers, gilded ceilings, tapestries and beautiful fresco paintings. Even if you haven’t been able to visit, you might recognise it because it featured in two James Bond films. As you might expect from such an prestigious establishment, you will need to pay an entrance fee and have to respect the formal dress code.
2. The Ritz Club, London
The Ritz Club is not only spectacularly beautiful, but it is arguably the most exclusive gambling venue across Europe. It is situated in the previous ballroom of the Ritz Hotel in London, but not everyone can swan in to enjoy the venue’s glamour and glitz. You must be a member to enter the establishment, which is not easy to attain, considering you must be recommended by a current member. Maybe if you can get Johnny Depp to vouch for you, then a seat at the table would be possible.
3. Casino di Venezia, Italy
Casino di Venezia is the oldest gambling establishment in the world, situated on the banks of the Grand Canal in Venice, Italy. The history books tell us its doors were first opened in 1638. In that time, the venue was mostly a theatre hall but did include a space for gambling during the intermission in plays. The casino itself is designed with Italian classical features such as embellished pillars, frescoes, felt ropes and private garden space. It’s everything you would expect a premium Italian venue to look like.
4. Casino de Spa, Belgium
Spa is an idyllic town in Belgium and home to the iconic Casino de Spa. It’s the preferred gambling destination for Belgium’s elite, including politicians, royalty and other celebrities. Also on site is a natural spa with cold springs, a ballroom and restaurants with unobstructed views of the surrounding nature and the city. The building was destroyed at the end of the 18th century but has been restored. It boasts the same grandeur and sophistication that it did when it was first constructed in 1763.
5. Casino Wiesbaden, Germany
German gambling laws are much more restrictive than many European counterparts, but they still found room for the stellar Casino Wiesbaden. This was opened in the 18th century and is located in a neoclassical building that was once used as a wine parlour. It has elements of Casino Monte Carlo here with grand chandeliers and artworks, but the cherry wooden touches give it a more unique vibe. Interestingly, this is the place where a famous Russian writer, Fyodor Dostoevsky, lost all of his belongings and was then inspired to write a successful novel, The Gambler. If you are ever in Germany, a visit here should be on your list.
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