Top five: Best cities in the world to gamble - global gaming destinations

5. Atlantic City, US

There are not only dozens of casinos and chances to lose all your money, Atlantic City is packed with nightclubs, excessive behaviour and a 1000-foot-long pier to promenade along and take in views of the iconic coastline.

The Pier Shops at Caesars shopping mall is one of the latest and greatest additions to the distinctive strip. It comes complete with Romanesque décor, the world’s largest indoor water fountain display in a shopping mall and an Apple store, naturally. 

atlanticcitynj.com

4. Monte Carlo, Monaco

Monte Carlo is a beacon for nouveau riche Euros, and given its proximity to the ‘cultural elite’ (France) it doesn’t match Vegas in the tacky stakes.

Here it’s all about glamour, living the good life and escaping reality. It’s easily done if you own a gold mine. It’s illegal for locals to gamble, but you sure can. When you’re not feeding the slots with coins, join in the national obsessions, following the socialite royal family and gawking at cars parading around the Grand Prix street track.

 visitmonaco.com

3. Las Vegas, US

No ode to betting would be complete without including the Mac Daddy of gambling spots. Slap bang in the middle of the Nevada desert you’ll find opportunities to bet for 24 hours straight. 

Also find mini replicas of famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, and walk-in chapels in which you can get married by
Elvis lookalikes. Classy it ain’t, but it is one hell of a ride.

 visitlasvegas.co.uk

4. San Jose, Costa Rica

Costa Rica is gambling potty. This small country has more than 30 casinos, many of them in San Jose. They attract savvy American tourists who come to spend less, but get that same Vegas high.

For a minimum spend of 60p ($1 in local currency) you’ll get free drinks while playing in most of the nation’s casinos. Play the local game of ‘rummy’ – it’s blackjack, with a twist. Draw three of the same card when trying to make 21, and you get paid double. Sweet.

 visitcostarica.com