When most people think of casinos, one of the first destinations on top of mind is Las Vegas – and why not? The metropolis of bright lights and high-octane action is still to this day, home to many of the most luxurious hotels and casinos. But rivalling casinos are now popping up all over the world, with facilities to compete with and even exceed expectations. In this travel guide, we’ll look at the top 10 most expensive casinos around the world. As you would expect, these lavish destinations may be cost an arm and a leg for most people, so if you can’t jump on a plane and visit one of these yourself, you can simply join the action online here.
Top 10 Most Expensive Casinos Around The World
Bellagio – Las Vegas, USA
Formerly the most expensive hotel/casino ever built ($1.6 billion), the Bellagio established its reputation for lavishness immediately, with its opening night costing in excess of $88 million. With two AAA Five-Diamond restaurants on offer and even restricted suites for the big spenders, everything about the Bellagio is a lavish affair. If you can prise yourself away from the games and gambling, of which the Bellagio has over 115,000 square feet of casino space, the fountains of Bellagio are a major Las Vegas attraction and not to be missed.
Casino Monte Carlo – Monte Carlo, Monaco
The Monte Carlo Casino was one of the world’s first major casinos, opening in the 1850s and is famed for its luxurious interior and world-class features. In fact, the casino served as the setting for Casino Royale. As Monegasques are forbidden from stepping foot in to the casino, it’s popular with tourists as well as the rich and famous. Players even have the option of partaking in games on a terrace.
City of Dreams – Macau, China
The City of Dreams opened in 2009, costing $2.1 billion and sits opposite another contender, The Venetian. The casino itself is one of the world’s largest at a staggering 420,000 square feet, offering 450 table games and 1,500 gaming machines. The rooms and suites are decadent and the high-end facilities make Macau one of the most-sought after locations for gambling.
Kurhaus – Baden Baden, Germany
Built in 1820, the Kurhaus is one of the oldest hotels and casinos, as well as one of the most extravagant. Marlene Dietrich described is as the “most beautiful casino in the world” and with good reason, its stunning Corinthian entrance and neo-classic décor are something to behold. Away from the roulette and table poker, there’s so much going on in terms of entertainment. Of course, one of the draws of the Kurhaus is its location, in the beautiful Black Forest – the views of which, many casinos cannot compete with.
Marina Bay Sands – Singapore
Widely known as Singapore’s most iconic and recognisable structure, Marina Bay Sands also remains one of the world’s most lavish casinos, coming in at a cost of $5.7 billion. The casino boasts 161,000 square feet of gaming space which includes 2,300 slots, 500 gambling tables, and other high-end features and entertainment options. Its retail and dining options are equally impressive, but of course are aimed at those with a luxury budget.
Resorts World Sentosa – Singapore
Singapore is fast becoming a new attraction for international gamblers and more expensive than Marina Bay at $6.5 billion, Resorts World Sentosa goes above and beyond what you’d expect from a hotel/casino. Set out across 120-acres, there’s more than just a casino to enjoy; although you’d be forgiven if you didn’t leave with an impressive 160,000 square feet to cover. Over 30 million visitors experienced the resort in its opening two years – and we can certainly see why!
The Ritz Club – London, England
Situated in the famous hotel of the same name on London’s Piccadilly in exclusive Mayfair, the Ritz Club is gaming at its most opulent. It’s a member only club, with table limits (£25 a hand) and guests arrive and leave by limo. There are even three private rooms for the highest clientele to socialise and game in.
Sun City – Rustenburg, South Africa
Combining the glitz and glamour of a casino with kitsch, safari atmosphere of South Africa, Sun City Resort & Casino opened in 1979. It’s recently refurbished and evolved with the times, offering thrills for both first-timers and experienced gamers. Features slots, blackjack, roulette and other casino games, members receive even more benefits including VIP gaming and private rooms.
Venetian – Las Vegas, USA
The original Venetian opened in 1999, but remains one of the most extravagant casinos to this day. No expense was spared when it came to the design of the resort, with its recreation of Venice’s canals complete with gondolas and architecture, including St. Mark’s Square. Over 120,000 square feet has been turned over to the casino floor and of course, there are all the additional facilities you’d come to expect.
Venetian – Macau, China
Macau has been dubbed the Las Vegas of Asia and with good reason – the Venetian Macau solidifies this claim and is luxurious living at its finest. The casino is part of 10.6 million square foot complex on the Cotai Strip. The casino offers 500,000 square feet of gaming space and for those that seek the ultimate comfort, guests can book a suite that comes with a butler and limousine service.
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Have you been to any of these lavish casinos? How was your experience like? Let us know in the comments below!