Quick list: The best gambling cities in the world are Las Vegas, Macau, Monte Carlo, Singapore, Atlantic City, London, Manila and Baden-Baden. Macau is the biggest by revenue, Vegas has the most choice, and Monte Carlo has the glamour. Rules on age, entry and dress differ by city, so check before you go.
The 8 best gambling cities compared
| City | Best for | Minimum age |
|---|---|---|
| Las Vegas, USA | Choice and entertainment | 21 |
| Macau, China | Baccarat and mega-resorts | 21 |
| Monte Carlo, Monaco | Glamour and history | 18 |
| Singapore | Two luxury integrated resorts | 21 |
| Atlantic City, USA | Boardwalk casinos on the East Coast | 21 |
| London, UK | Classic clubs and the Hippodrome | 18 |
| Manila, Philippines | Big resorts in Entertainment City | 21 |
| Baden-Baden, Germany | A historic spa-town casino | 18 |
1. Las Vegas
Nevada legalised casino gambling in 1931, and Las Vegas grew into the world’s most famous gambling city. The Strip packs dozens of resort casinos into a few miles, with every game you can think of plus shows, restaurants and pools. Choosing a base? See our best Las Vegas hotels.
2. Macau
Macau is the only part of China where casino gambling is legal, and it is the biggest gambling market in the world by revenue. Baccarat rules the tables, and the Cotai Strip is lined with resorts like The Venetian Macao and Wynn Palace. Read our full Macau guide.
3. Monte Carlo
The Casino de Monte-Carlo has drawn high rollers since the 1860s. Its Belle Époque rooms are a sight in themselves. There is an entry fee and a smart dress code in the main gaming rooms, and Monaco’s own citizens are not allowed to gamble there.
4. Singapore
Singapore has just two casinos, both inside integrated resorts that opened in 2010: Marina Bay Sands and Resorts World Sentosa. Foreign visitors get in free with a passport, while citizens and permanent residents pay an entry levy.
5. Atlantic City
New Jersey voters approved casino gambling in Atlantic City in 1976, and the first casino opened in 1978. Today a smaller group of casinos lines the famous Boardwalk. It is the East Coast’s classic gambling getaway.
6. London
London has a long tradition of private gaming clubs and several large public casinos, including the Hippodrome Casino in Leicester Square. All are regulated by the UK Gambling Commission.
7. Manila
Manila’s Entertainment City by Manila Bay is home to big resort casinos such as Okada Manila, Solaire and City of Dreams Manila. Casinos in the Philippines are licensed and regulated by PAGCOR.
8. Baden-Baden
This German spa town’s casino dates back to the 19th century and is known for its grand, palace-like rooms. It is one of the most elegant places to play in Europe, with a dress code to match.
Tips for a gambling trip
- Check the minimum age and bring your passport. Many casinos ask for ID at the door.
- Read up on dress codes, especially in Monte Carlo and Baden-Baden.
- Set a trip budget before you leave, and keep it separate from travel money.
- Learn the odds first. Our low house edge guide shows which games give you the best chance.
Play from home
Can’t travel? You can play the same games online. Our top pick is 1win (9.9/10), with live dealer baccarat, blackjack and roulette. Use promo code Ultragambler for the 500% welcome package. 18+, and check your local laws before you play.
Gambling cities FAQs
What is the biggest gambling city in the world?
Macau, by gaming revenue. Las Vegas is the most famous and has the widest choice.
Which gambling city is best for beginners?
Las Vegas, thanks to its low-limit tables, wide choice of games and free table lessons at some casinos.
Can tourists gamble in Singapore?
Yes. Foreign visitors enter Singapore’s two casinos free with a passport; locals pay an entry levy.
Can Monaco citizens gamble at the Casino de Monte-Carlo?
No. Monaco’s citizens are not allowed to gamble there.
