The Extravagant Casino In Monaco That's Actually A Disappointing Tourist Trap

Less than a square mile in size, nestled on the French Riviera, you'll find the second smallest country in Europe. While small, Monaco is known for its larger-than-life opulence and the wealthy visitors who come to experience it. However, travelers intrigued by the playground of the rich and famous may be disappointed by one of its landmarks, the Casino De Monte-Carlo, which has sadly become one of the most overrated tourist attractions in Europe, according to reviews.

While there are many tourist traps that even Rick Steves loves, Casino De Monte-Carlo is not one of them. However, tourists still flock to it in droves, and the casino still boasts thousands of five-star reviews online. All of this could easily make you wonder whether this world-famous casino lives up to the hype, but a growing number of visitors insist that it doesn't. 

Without a doubt, stepping into the Casino De Monte-Carlo is an experience in itself. Built in 1865, the casino is adorned with dazzling Bohemian crystal chandeliers, colorful murals by French artists such as Georges Picard, and a Belle Époque inspired exterior that immediately commands your attention. A trip to this iconic Monaco attraction may have you spending your money faster than a Formula One race car careening through its tiny streets, but is it worth it? 

Casino De Monte-Carlo does have specific requirements in order to enter. Access to the building is only through the entryway at the Place du Casino, access to the slots and gaming rooms are highly regulated, and you must provide a passport if you are not an European Union member (E.U. nationals must show their European I.D. card). An entry fee to Casino De Monte-Carlo is approximately $23 (20 Euros), which gets visitors an approximate $12 (10 Euros) voucher that can be used at the slots, bar, or at the stunning Le Salon Rose restaurant, but with a minimum purchase of $47 (40 Euros), of course. For exclusive members with the My Monte-Carlo Loyalty Program, entry fees are waived.

Dress to impress, because your outfit will be judged harder than Tyra Banks on "America's Next Top Model." While no dress code is required for the boutique area, visitors wearing ripped jeans, shorts, flip-flops, or running shoes to enter the gaming rooms will be denied entry. Stepping inside this luxury casino may feel like a must-do activity, but some beg to differ.

Redditor u/NYChockey14 posted in the r/Monaco subreddit, "I read all the reviews and made sure I tried to follow all the guidelines. Getting in was no issue at all. But actually trying to play at tables was the most confusing salsa dance ever. You can't play straight cash at the tables, fine no problem, go exchange at the stations. But once you exchange they don't tell you that the roulette tables are 100€ min to exchange to "table money" in order to play a 5€ min table requirement." Perhaps while visiting Monaco, enjoy yacht watching at the harbor to soak in the rich ambiance instead.