The Casino of Monte-Carlo is an emblematic figure of luxury in Monaco, and has been immortalized in numerous films, notably the James Bond saga. This mythical institution is not only an entertainment venue frequented by celebrities, but also a remarkable monument. Designed in the Belle Époque style in 1879 by Charles Garnier, who also built the Opéra Garnier in Paris. Good news: it’s open to the curious every morning!
Here are some useful tips for planning your visit to the Monte-Carlo’s casino in the Principality of Monaco.
This guide is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Is a visit to the Monte-Carlo’s Casino worthwhile?
Yes, the casino is well worth a visit! We loved discovering this extremely luxurious place. We were stunned by the beauty of the different rooms in this monument, largely built by Charles Garnier. Between the Salle Europe and its superb chandeliers, the splendid décor of the Salle Blanche and the magnificent glass ceiling of the Salle Touzet, you’ll be dazzled! This audio-guided tour might just tempt you to try your luck at the games in the afternoon. You’ll be spoilt for choice with roulettes, slot machines and blackjack tables.
It’s one of Monaco’s best activities.
What you can see
A luxurious façade
Before entering the casino, take time to admire its façade! You may be surprised to see 2 empty slots at the top of the building’s turrets. They used to house clocks. They indicated the times in Paris and Monaco. So it’s no coincidence that the sculptures just above the wrought-iron marquee are entitled the Seine and the Mediterranean! They were created by Fabio Stecchi, an Italian-born French sculptor based in Nice in the 19th century.
A magnificent atrium
We didn’t expect to see such a beautiful atrium when we entered. 28 onyx columns surround it! Be sure to look up to admire the glass ceiling and decorative vaulting. In the center, you’ll find XXL chips and a roulette wheel, a playful decoration that’s sure to entertain young and old alike!
The Salle Europe and its monumental chandeliers
You’ll soon reach Salle Europe, our favorite part of the tour! We were simply overwhelmed by its sheer size. It’s flanked by bars and restaurants, and features numerous craps tables at its center. This sumptuous room features eight monumental Bohemian crystal chandeliers and a splendid glass roof. Keep your eyes peeled for blue, pink or purple hues, depending on where you are! The walls feature works by French artists Paul Steck, Pedro Ribera, Georges Picard and Félix-Hippolyte Lucas, on the theme of nature and women.
Numerous games tables
As we said, you’ll find craps tables in the Europe Room, but that’s not all! Other American games if found. We play blackjack and various poker variants (texas poker, hold’em ultimate…). The following rooms also feature French and English castors!
Slot machines to make you feel like James Bond
Along the way, you’ll of course see a large number of slot machines. As far as we’re concerned, it was this James Bond-themed machine that caught our eye! In fact, the casino was the backdrop for the Goldfinger saga, released in 1965 with actor Sean Connery in the lead role. A classic to revisit before your visit!
The sumptuous decor of the Salle Blanche
We then entered the Salle Blanche, which we found very elegant. Previously used as a reading room, it is now widely open to the outside with large bay windows, making it particularly bright. It lives up to its name! Its ceiling was magnificent, with gold and blue-tinted ornamentation on a white background. It went perfectly with the imposing gold curtains. During gaming hours, these lounges are private. Take advantage of this exclusive tour!
The splendid ceiling of the Salle Touzet
After the Salle Europe, this is our 2nd favorite room on the course. It features a magnificent glass ceiling dating from 1889. We loved its contrasting colors, between red and black. Its sinuous elements gave it a tasteful Art Nouveau spirit. You’ll probably notice the stained-glass medallions. These are female portraits personifying emotions. The 2 adjoining Touzet rooms were once used as storage vestibules. They were designed by the eponymous architect in 1890.
Colorful motifs in the Salle Médecin
The tour ends with a visit to the Salle Médecin, designed in 1910 by architect Julien Médecin. It is dedicated to tournaments in which the greatest players compete! On the walls, you’ll be able to admire numerous paintings, such as those by Armand Segaud, which are allegories of morning, noon, evening and night. Can you find them? Surprising as it may seem, we fell in love with the carpet, with its pretty, colourful decorative patterns!
Monte-Carlo Casino in Monaco: how to get there
Where’s the casino?
- The casino is located in the heart of the Monte Carlo district in the Principality of Monaco. It faces the Jardins de la Petite Afrique.
- It’s a 15-minute walk from the station.
Access by car and parking
The nearest parking lot is the casino parking lot. It charges for parking of 1 hour or more, and is open 24 hours a day.
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- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Choose a car that is powerful enough (the roads are steep) but compact (some passages are narrow).
- Think of thecomplete insurance (some roads are tortuous and narrow).
- There is a lot of demand, book it early.
Public transport access
To get there by public transport, take bus routes 1, 6 and 5 to the “Place du Casino” stop. To plan your route, visit the official public transport website here.
Visiting difficulties
An elevator for the disabled is located at the main entrance, on the Place du Casino. Adapted toilets are located on the Buddha Bar level. All game rooms are accessible.
Useful tips for visiting Monte-Carlo’s Casino of Monaco
Schedules and prices
- Price: €18
- Opening hours: the casino is open daily from 10am to 1pm for sightseeing, and from 2pm to 4am for gaming.
- During playtime, you must be of legal age and properly dressed to enter.
See the latest news on the official website here.
How long
Allow 1 hour for your visit.
Best moment
We went there as soon as it opened and there were a few groups. Don’t hesitate to wait until 11:30 a.m. to get there.
Direction of visit
The visiting direction is imposed. The audioguide takes you from the atrium to the Salle Jean Médecin.
Eating out
The casino has several bars and restaurants. The main ones are on either side of the Salle Europe. We really enjoyed Le Train Bleu, which specializes in fish and seafood. You’re sure to be charmed by its setting, inspired by a Belle Époque dining car. In fact, we listed it in our article on the best restaurants to eat in Monaco!
Hotels
You’re in the heart of the Monte Carlo district, home to Monaco’s most famous palaces! Here are our recommendations:
WHERE TO STAY IN Monaco
Option 1: In Monte Carlo
Discover luxury palaces in Monaco’s most sought-after district:
- Hotel de Paris – see prices, pictures and availability
- Hermitage Hotel – see prices, photos and availability
- Hotel Métropole – see prices, photos and availability
Option 2: Larvotto
Close to Larvotto beach, you’ll find some splendid resort hotels.
We recommend..:
- Monte-Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort – view prices, pictures and availability
- Le Méridien Beach Plaza – view prices, pictures and availability
Option 3: At Port-Hercule
Boutique hotels, with superb views of the port and the Rock.
- Hotel Miramar – prices, pictures and availability
- Port Palace – see prices, photos and availability
