The World’s 10 Most Famous Casinos

Casinos are more than just places to gamble—they’re symbols of luxury, entertainment, and excitement. From the iconic Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas to the elegance of Monte-Carlo, these world-famous casinos combine architectural brilliance, rich history, and unforgettable moments. This article highlights ten of the most legendary casinos, showcasing their unique charm, record-breaking jackpots, and global appeal.

1. Bellagio (Las Vegas, United States)

Bellagio, located in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States.

A hallmark of luxury, Bellagio is renowned for its iconic dancing fountains, an engineering marvel synchronized with music and light shows, attracting millions of tourists annually. Its sprawling 115,000 m² property includes over 3,900 rooms and suites, Michelin-starred restaurants, a luxurious spa, and high-end boutiques. The Bellagio’s architectural style takes inspiration from Italy’s Lake Como, with a classical and sophisticated design highlighted by opulent indoor gardens and the famous glass installation Fiori di Como by Dale Chihuly. The casino itself features an extensive array of slot machines, high-stakes poker rooms, and a variety of table games for both casual and professional players.

• Opening date: 1998.
• Key facts:
  • Featured in the iconic movie Ocean’s Eleven.
  • Regular host of the World Poker Tour.
  • Holds a jackpot record of over $12 million.

2. The Venetian (Macao, China)

The Venetian, located in Macao, China.

The Venetian in Macao is an architectural masterpiece that replicates the charm of Venice, complete with indoor canals, gondola rides, and a meticulously recreated St. Mark’s Square. Covering an astounding 546,000 m², it is one of the largest casino resorts in the world. The resort combines luxurious suites, a world-class shopping mall, and over 3,000 slot machines alongside a wide selection of table games, making it a hub for gaming enthusiasts. Its design incorporates intricate frescoes, Italian-style bridges, and an atmosphere of timeless elegance. This venue attracts millions of visitors annually, offering an immersive experience that blends gaming with art and culture.

• Opening date: 2007.
• Key facts:
  • Held the title of the world’s largest casino upon opening.
  • Host of major poker tournaments, including the Asia Championship of Poker.
  • Record jackpots have exceeded $17 million.

3. Casino de Monte-Carlo (Monaco)

Casino de Monte-Carlo, located in Monaco.

A symbol of European luxury and sophistication, the Casino de Monte-Carlo is one of the most prestigious gambling establishments in the world. With its Belle Époque architecture, designed by Charles Garnier, the casino boasts marble columns, gilded ceilings, and opulent frescoes. Spanning 12,000 m², it caters to a clientele of high rollers and elites. Beyond gaming, it features upscale dining and an opera house within the same complex. The casino has a rich history, often associated with royalty and celebrities, and is a magnet for lovers of culture and elegance.

• Opening date: 1863.
• Key facts:
  • Featured in the James Bond film Casino Royale.
  • A hotspot for international elites and luxurious events.
  • Historic jackpots of several million euros have been won here.

4. MGM Grand (Las Vegas, United States)

MGM Grand, located in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States.

The MGM Grand is a titan of entertainment and gaming, boasting 171,500 m² of casino space and over 6,800 rooms, making it one of the largest hotels in the world. Its modern design incorporates sleek architecture, vibrant interiors, and world-class facilities, including the MGM Grand Garden Arena. This venue is renowned for hosting iconic boxing matches, Cirque du Soleil shows, and A-list concerts. The casino offers a massive selection of slot machines, table games, and VIP lounges for high-stakes gamblers. Its luxurious amenities, coupled with its entertainment offerings, make it a must-visit destination on the Las Vegas Strip.

• Opening date: 1993.
• Key facts:
  • Venue for legendary boxing matches, including Mike Tyson fights.
  • Features Cirque du Soleil’s acclaimed KÀ show.
  • Hosts slot machine jackpots regularly exceeding $10 million.

5. Marina Bay Sands (Singapore)

Marina Bay Sands, located in Singapore.

Marina Bay Sands is a global icon of modern luxury, recognized for its unique architectural design featuring three soaring towers topped by the SkyPark and infinity pool, offering breathtaking views of Singapore’s skyline. The casino spans 120,000 m², featuring thousands of slot machines and table games. The resort also includes luxury retail stores, gourmet dining options, and the ArtScience Museum. Designed by Moshe Safdie, the structure seamlessly blends futuristic design with functionality. Attracting millions annually, Marina Bay Sands is not just a casino but an all-encompassing lifestyle destination.

• Opening date: 2010.
• Key facts:
  • The infinity pool is a global tourist attraction.
  • Host to high-stakes international gaming events.
  • Frequent payouts from its extensive slot machines.

6. Caesars Palace (Las Vegas, United States)

Caesars Palace, located in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States.

Caesars Palace is one of the most iconic resorts on the Las Vegas Strip, renowned for its Roman Empire-inspired architecture. With its grandiose columns, marble statues, and extravagant fountains, it immerses visitors in an atmosphere of ancient opulence. Spanning 124,000 m², it offers a variety of gaming options, from slot machines to high-stakes poker tables. The resort is also known for its Colosseum, a venue for performances by global stars such as Céline Dion and Elton John.

• Opening date: 1966.
• Key facts:
  • Venue for several historic boxing matches.
  • Iconic performances by world-renowned artists.
  • A notable jackpot of over $15 million won here.

7. The Wynn (Las Vegas, United States)

The Wynn, located in Las Vegas, Nevada, United States.

The Wynn is a luxurious oasis on the Las Vegas Strip, known for its elegant design and exclusive atmosphere. Covering 87,000 m², it features a lavish casino, high-end shopping, and gourmet dining. The architecture is sleek and modern, with meticulously designed gardens, a man-made lake, and curated art installations. The Wynn attracts high-end clientele and has been awarded multiple times as the best hotel-casino worldwide.

• Opening date: 2005.
• Key facts:
  • Winner of several best luxury resort awards.
  • Hosts exclusive events and galas.
  • Regular jackpots exceeding $11 million.

8. City of Dreams (Macao, China)

City of Dreams, located in Macao, China.

A contemporary resort and casino complex, City of Dreams combines world-class gaming with luxury accommodation and breathtaking shows such as The House of Dancing Water. Spanning 420,000 m², it offers an array of gaming options, high-end dining, and a wide selection of retail outlets. Its architectural style is sleek and modern, with an emphasis on innovative designs and high-tech features.

• Opening date: 2009.
• Key facts:
  • Hosts Asia’s largest aquatic show.
  • Regularly features major poker tournaments.
  • Jackpots have reached over $20 million.

9. Atlantis Paradise Island (Bahamas)

Atlantis Paradise Island, located in the Bahamas.

Atlantis Paradise Island is a tropical paradise and a gaming hub, blending luxury with the beauty of the Bahamas. Inspired by the myth of Atlantis, its architecture features marine-themed designs, aquariums, and lagoons. With a casino spanning 10,000 m², it attracts tourists and gaming enthusiasts alike. The resort also offers world-class beaches and waterparks, making it a perfect blend of leisure and gaming.

• Opening date: 1998.
• Key facts:
  • Host to major poker tournaments in the Caribbean.
  • Aquarium featuring over 50,000 marine species.
  • Frequent jackpots of up to $8 million.

10. Casino Baden-Baden (Germany)

Casino Baden-Baden, located in Baden-Baden, Germany.

One of Europe’s oldest and most elegant casinos, Casino Baden-Baden is a timeless symbol of sophistication. Built in 1838, its classical architecture features chandeliers, gold accents, and richly decorated salons. Covering 2,500 m², it attracts both gambling enthusiasts and cultural tourists. Dostoevsky, inspired by this casino, wrote The Gambler.

• Opening date: 1838.
• Key facts:
  • Frequented by European aristocracy.
  • Hosted several high-profile events.
  • A historic jackpot of several million euros.