Monte Carlo – Casino Travel Guide

A polished experience: grand venues, upscale dress codes, and scenic Riviera views. Below: practical seasonality and planning tips.

Overview

Monte Carlo is the epitome of luxury casino travel. Since the Casino de Monte‑Carlo opened in 1863, it has become an icon of European glamour—helping rescue the finances of the Grimaldi family and anchoring Monaco’s image as a Riviera playground. It remains a magnet for James Bond lore, high‑stakes salons, and strict etiquette.

Best Time to Visit

Spring & Early Autumn: April–June and September–October offer warm but comfortable weather, fewer mega‑yacht crowds, and major events like the Monaco Grand Prix (late May).
Peak summer: July–August is hot, crowded, and expensive; tables draw global high‑rollers.
Winter: Quieter but still upscale; holiday season sees decorated casinos and mild Mediterranean chill.

Table Etiquette & Dress Code

Monte Carlo casinos are famous for their formality:

Dress: Jacket recommended for men after 8pm; smart attire is expected (no sportswear, shorts, sandals). The Casino de Monte‑Carlo may refuse entry otherwise.
ID & Entry: Passport required for entry. Citizens of Monaco are barred by law from gambling inside.
Table behavior: Be polite, avoid touching chips after bets are called, and expect French/English dealer commands.

Top Casinos

Casino Spotlights

Casino de Monte‑Carlo

The Belle Époque jewel of Monaco; opened 1863, featured in James Bond films, home to lavish salons.

Official site

Casino Café de Paris

Open 24/7 with modern games, outdoor terrace, and lower minimums than its historic neighbor.

Official site

Sun Casino

Inside Fairmont Monte Carlo; casual atmosphere with slots, tables, and sports focus.

Monte Carlo Bay Casino

Part of Monte‑Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort; chic, resort‑style gaming environment.

Casino de Monte‑Carlo – Opened 1863; Belle Époque architecture, James Bond filming site, strict etiquette, world‑famous salons.
Casino Café de Paris – More relaxed, modern atmosphere with slots and electronic games, plus lower minimums than the main casino.
Sun Casino – Casual gaming, connected to Fairmont Hotel; known for sports and entertainment vibe.
Monte Carlo Bay Casino – Part of Monte‑Carlo Bay Hotel & Resort; chic resort atmosphere with table games.

Nearby Attractions

Monaco Grand Prix: Late May Formula 1 race transforms the city into the world’s most glamorous circuit.
Prince’s Palace: Historic residence of the Grimaldi family with daily guard ceremony.
Monaco Yacht Show: September showcase of mega‑yachts and luxury lifestyle.
Oceanographic Museum: Founded in 1910 by Prince Albert I, perched dramatically above the sea.
Larvotto Beach: Public beach steps from Monte Carlo’s casino square.

FAQ

What is the legal gambling age in Monaco?

18. ID required; Monégasque citizens are prohibited from entering casinos by law.

What are the table minimums?

Main rooms often €25–€50; salons €100+; Casino Café de Paris offers more accessible €25 tables and lower on machines.

Is there a dress code?

Smart attire; jackets recommended for men after 8pm. No sportswear, shorts, or sandals in the Casino de Monte‑Carlo.

When is the Monaco Grand Prix?

Usually late May. During GP week, hotel rates and casino crowds spike.