Monte-Carlo Casino

Designed in 1863 by Charles Garnier, this legendary Belle Époque house of haute gambling still glitters with old-world glamour. Visited in the past by an endless list of royaly, statesmen, writers, artists, movie stars and models—everyone from the Prince of Wales, Prince Napoléon, Baron Rothschild and Winston Churchill to Alexandre Dumas, Anton Chekhov, Colette and Somerset Maugham—the casino continues to attract an elegant international clientele. Patrons plunk down serious money at the European, English, French and American roulette wheels as well as at the blackjack, poker, trente et quarante and craps tables. The bona fide high rollers head for the Salons Privés, four luxurious gaming rooms that are open until 8 A.M. and where the chef will whip up a cheese soufflé for a late-night snack.

Even if you’re not prepared to risk your euros, have a peek at the majestic atrium, bedecked with towering marble columns and ornate bronze candelabras. Should temptation strike, visit the small room of jangling slot machines. To gamble, you must be over 21, and you’ll need to present an identity card or passport at the entry desk. A sports jacket and tie are de rigueur for men and shorts and sneakers are forbidden.