Once upon a time, there was a casino...

At the outset - in the mid-19th century - there was the crazy idea of transforming the plateau des Spélugues, an arid, wild Mediterranean promontory, into a resort and gaming area for the Mediterranean nobility and gentry. The idea was whispered into the ear of Prince Charles III of Monaco by François Blanc, founder of the Société des Bains de Mer.

In 1863, the Casino de Monte-Carlo was built, as was the Hôtel de Paris a year later. And because "nothing can be done here like anywhere else", as Monsieur Blanc put it, the casino quickly became an emblem of the Principality, attracting royalty, artists, intellectuals and the curious in search of luxury and excitement. The rules of the game may have changed, but the aura of the place has remained intact.

At the gates of refinement

Before you come and try your luck, take the time to immerse yourself in the place during a morning visit. Every day, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., the Casino de Monte-Carlo opens its doors to lovers of fine things, history and Belle Époque architecture. Just like its façade, it promises a world apart.

As you enter, you'll discover a magnificent Atrium paved with marble and bristling with 28 Ionic columns. Charles Garnier, the architect of the Paris Opera, was responsible for this ostentatious design. One of his jewels is hidden behind the casino: The Opéra de Monte-Carlo, an Italian-style theater accessible from the grand staircase...

Art at the heart of the lounges

The heart of the casino also beats to the rhythm of the works of art it houses. In the salons, on the walls and ceilings, paintings and frescoes all tell the same story: that of women, the eternal muse and allegory of nature and the arts. Paintbrushes by 19th-century masters. Like the Salle Europe, with its imposing glass roof and eight Bohemian crystal chandeliers, and works by Picard, Steck, Lucas and Ribera.

Passing through the modern Salle des Amériques, you arrive in the elegant and luminous Salle Blanche, once a reading and relaxation room. Here, you'll recognize the features of the Belle Otero or Liane de Pougy, Monte-Carlo's "socialites", immortalized as Florentine Graces by the painter Paul Gervais. Finally, in the prestigious Salle Médecin, bas-reliefs by Émile Peynot seem to make the sun Helios and the moon Selene dance.

Mischievous mysteries

The Casino de Monte-Carlo also has its little secrets... Starting with the bull's-eye windows in the Salle Europe. Now condemned, they were once used to discreetly observe the players. And maybe you'll catch him on the ceiling of the Salon Rose, a former smoking room turned restaurant: a strange cherub turns his back to you, seemingly presenting his holy buttocks wherever you are.

Finally, there's this clock hanging on one of the walls of the Salons Touzet, or "Twin" Rooms. Curious, given that clocks are often banned from casinos, where gamblers are encouraged to lose all sense of time. But you'll learn that the one in the Salons Touzet remains a vestige of a time when, caught up in the madness of gambling, players couldn't afford to miss the last train!

Place your bets!

After your leisurely morning visit, it's time for a little gambling in the afternoon (from 2 p.m.)! The lounges of the Casino de Monte-Carlo, so quiet just a few hours ago, are suddenly filled with gamblers from all walks of life: neophytes, amateurs and enthusiasts, to each his own. The only conditions are that you must be over 18 and dressed appropriately. Otherwise, the Casino de Monte-Carlo offers a variety of games to suit every taste.

Choose your lounge and try your luck! Challenge the most modern slot machines in the Salle Renaissance or the Salons Touzet. Try your hand at roulette, blackjack or punto banco in the Salle Europe. Here, everything has been designed to make gambling an elegant and immersive adventure.

From table to table

At the Casino de Monte-Carlo, the art of gaming mingles with the art of dining. Extend your experience with the flavours of its restaurants. The Salon Rose restaurant, with its alcoves and high ceiling, has preserved its boudoir atmosphere, serving cuisine from near and far. Don't miss its terrace overlooking the Mediterranean, a true marvel!

For a sweet break, take a seat under the glass roof of the Atrium, at the Café de la Rotonde. Or why not take up an invitation to the Salle Europe lounge bar to sample one of its signature cocktails. James Bond was a regular here. In the evening, climb aboard Le Train Bleu, a Belle Époque "restaurant car", and set off on a journey to the farthest reaches of Italian gastronomy. Out the window, Casino Square!

Practical info

Tours from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. (last entry at 12.15 p.m.)

Self-guided or with audioguide from €15

Gaming rooms from 2pm
Single rate of €20 + Casino Royal offer included from 2pm (Casino Royal offer not included if ticket purchased in the morning)
Casino Royal offer (valid only with afternoon ticket purchase): choice of €10 voucher for use at slot machines, bar or Salon Rose restaurant (minimum restaurant consumption €40 per person).

Access authorized to all adults.

Passport or photo ID required.