Casinò di Campione — The Legendary Casino on Lake Lugano

Introduction

Casinò di Campione is the most famous and iconic gambling house in Italy, a true symbol of luxury, excitement, and European glamour for over a century. The casino is located in the unique Italian enclave of Campione d'Italia, surrounded by Swiss territory on the picturesque shore of Lake Lugano. This place attracts both avid gamblers and lovers of architecture, history, and exquisite leisure. The casino is renowned not only for its scale and traditions but also for its stunning contemporary architecture, which became the new face of the city after reconstruction.

The main feature of Casinò di Campione is its extraordinary location, an atmospheric mix of Swiss and Italian lifestyles, and a luxury service of the highest European standard. The casino is famous for its exceptional privacy, top-notch security, and exclusive clientele. Here, elegance and excitement go hand in hand with breathtaking views of the lake and mountains.

History

Casinò di Campione opened in 1917 by special permission of the Italian government — during World War I, it was initially used for gathering intelligence among foreign guests. In peacetime, the gambling house quickly became one of the most popular in Europe, attracting aristocrats, artists, and wealthy tourists. Since 1933, the casino building has been a landmark, and the complex has undergone several reconstructions and expansions.

In 2007, the old building was replaced by a new, ultra-modern 9-storey casino designed by architect Mario Botta, accommodating thousands of guests, restaurants, a theater, and a conference center. Investments exceeded 120 million euros. Despite a temporary closure in 2018 due to bankruptcy, the casino resumed operations in 2022, becoming even more innovative. Today, Casinò di Campione is the largest casino in Italy and one of the largest in Europe.

Architecture and Design

The modern building is a true hi-tech masterpiece — a monumental cube of glass and concrete harmoniously integrated into the Alpine landscape. The facades are adorned with large panoramic windows and artistic lighting. The interiors are decorated in soft light tones, using marble, wood, high ceilings, and original light installations.

The main hall is a vast amphitheater with gaming zones on several levels, VIP areas, restaurants, bars, and a stage for shows. Inside is an open atrium with live plants and fountains. Each gaming room has its own character: from ultra-modern to classic Italian with antique furniture and handmade carpets.

Gaming Area

Casinò di Campione offers some of the best gaming opportunities in Italy — over 500 modern slot machines, 56 gaming tables, and separate VIP zones. Guests can play both traditional European and popular American games.

• 500+ slot machines
• Roulette (European and American)
• Punto Banco, Baccarat, Blackjack
• Poker (Texas Hold’em, Omaha)
• Slots and Video Poker
• VIP rooms for high rollers
• Regular tournaments and special events

VIP guests enjoy separate rooms with higher limits, personalized service, and exclusive privileges. The casino regularly hosts poker tournaments, themed evenings, and jackpot draws.

Accommodation

The casino itself does not offer hotel accommodation, but Campione d’Italia and nearby Lugano (Switzerland) provide dozens of hotels of various categories. The best options are boutique hotels overlooking the lake and mountains, family-run guesthouses, and luxury apartments. Average rates are as follows:

Most hotels offer free Wi-Fi, parking, spa services, pools, panoramic terraces, and shuttle service to the casino.

Restaurants and Dining

The casino features 3 restaurants and several bars, with menus offering Italian, Mediterranean, and international cuisine. Top 3 restaurants in the casino and nearby:

1. Ristorante Seven — signature Italian cuisine
2. Bistrot di Campione — light dishes and desserts
3. Bar L’Incontro — cocktails and snacks

All restaurants are staffed by professional chefs. Tasting menus, wine lists, vegetarian and children's dishes, and exquisite desserts are offered.

Additional Entertainment

The casino is not just about gambling, but also a center of cultural life. Concerts, shows, gastronomic festivals, modern art exhibitions, and fashion shows are regularly held here. There is a spa, shops, souvenir boutiques, a fitness center, and a 500-seat theater. In summer, the promenade hosts parties and fireworks.

Practical Information

• How to get there: The casino is right on the shore of Lake Lugano, 5 km from the Swiss city of Lugano. You can get there by car, taxi, public transport, or boat.
• Nearest airports: Lugano Airport (10 km), Milan Malpensa (65 km)
• Best time to visit: May–October (mild weather, cultural events)
• Money-saving tips: Book hotels in advance, use "play+dinner" packages, watch for promotions on the casino website.

Conclusion

Casinò di Campione is a luxurious retreat, an elegant atmosphere, and thrilling entertainment against the backdrop of stunning Alpine scenery. The casino is recommended for everyone who values exclusivity, high service, and European quality. Discover legendary Italian style, try your luck, and enjoy top-level culture at Casinò di Campione!