A casino is an establishment for gambling. Its patrons gamble by playing games of chance or skill, and the house collects the winnings. Casinos are usually combined with hotels, resorts, restaurants, retail shops, and other tourist attractions. They may also host live entertainment such as stand-up comedy and concerts, and offer other amenities such as sports betting. In some cases, casinos are designed to resemble palaces or other historical landmarks.

Most casinos use video cameras and other security measures to ensure the safety of their customers. In addition, staff members often undergo strict training and background checks. Because of the large amount of money handled within a casino, patrons and staff may be tempted to cheat or steal, in collusion or independently. Casinos generally have security measures to prevent this, including surveillance systems and rules requiring players to keep their hands visible at all times.

The most famous casino in the world is the Casino de Monte Carlo, located on Monaco’s principality coast, and a major source of the city’s economy. The casino is a popular tourist attraction and is featured in Ian Fleming’s James Bond novels and films. Other famous casinos include the Casino Estoril on Portugal’s Portuguese Riviera, which was a gathering place for spies, dispossessed royals, and wartime adventurers during World War II and was subsequently the inspiration for the James Bond novel Casino Royale by Ian Fleming.

In Canada, the largest casino is the Casino de Montreal, which was built in the French Pavilion of Expo 67. It is an architectural masterpiece, and offers a wide variety of games, including more than 3,000 slot machines and 100 table games. It is also known for its gourmet dining options, with restaurants such as L’Atelier de Joel Robuchon and Pavillon 67.