The Best European Casinos

European casinos have long been the playground of the European nobility and social elite.   Long before Vegas, online gaming or the World Series of Poker, the style of gambling was very much dependent on social class.  While the masses would bet on animal racing & fights, boxing in crowded often makeshift venues, the aristocracy enjoyed table and card games in a luxurious atmosphere that still permeates through the older European casinos today.

Baden Baden Casino

Described as the ‘most beautiful casino in the world’ by Marlene Dietrich, Baden Baden Casino is also one of the most elegant.  It’s located at the Baden Baden springs near the Black Forest.  The casino first opened in 1809 and at one time, real silver and gold chips were used for wagering.  Today  Baden Baden Casino offers more than 32,289-square foot of gaming extravagance, with 113 slots machines and 24 table games, including American Roulette, Baccarat, French Roulette and Poker.  Baden Baden Casino is incredibly elegant with grand interiors.  Its’ design was inspired by French palaces and it even has one room named after the mistress of Louis XV, the Madam Pompadour Room.

Casino De Monte Carlo

Casino de Monte Carlo is perhaps the most well known of European casinos, and has featured in many a film.   For over a century the casino destination has been a favorite amongst Europe’s jet set & social elite.  It was deigned and built in the early 1860’s by Charles Garnier, the architect of the Paris Opera.  The lavish complex of 5 casinos is decorated with marble columns, gold and bronze ornaments and crystal chandeliers.  The resort also contains an opera, as well as many restaurants and bars. The casino features 316 slot machines and 35 tables for Roulette, Craps and Blackjack. 

Clermont Casino

In Britain, the casinos are a more exclusive affair, and the best require that a membership is obtained before being allowed to enter.  The Clermont Casino in London is one of the most elite and refined casino clubs.  It is small compared to its’ continental counter-parts, but the splendor and grandiose are evident throughout. At its’ centre is a magnificent double staircase of stunning Baroque décor.  The Casino has tables for Baccarat, Blackjack, Roulette, Three Card Poker and Punto Banco.  The gaming rooms are quiet and discreet, and the dining room and bars all retain the unassuming yet luxurious atmosphere.

Casino Metropol

Casino Metropol, Moscow, is located within minutes from the Red Square and the Kremlin.  This truly elegant casino is part of the Metropol hotel. It was originally built at the end of the 19^th century and has undergone many renovations since.  Today it is a mixture of old splendour and modern luxury.   Over the years it has been visited by many of Europe’s aristocracy and academia, including Tolstoy, Rachmaninov and George Bernard Shaw.  The casino has 11 tables for blackjack, roulette and poker.

Whatever your taste, the best European Casinos offer an unrivalled gaming experience – from the grandeur of Baden Baden Casino, the extravagance found at Casino de Monte Carlo, to the reserved and luxurious style found in the elite London and Moscow casinos.