A casino is a room or building in which gambling games are played. The games are primarily chance, although some have an element of skill, and the house always has an advantage over players. The casino earns money by charging a commission on winning bets, known as the rake. Some casinos also offer food and drink, and are often located in or near tourist destinations.

The first casino was built in Monte Carlo, and the name has since spread to most of the world. A casino may be large or small, and it may feature a variety of games, including roulette, blackjack, and poker. It may be a standalone building, or it may be part of a larger hotel or resort.

Modern casinos employ sophisticated security measures. For example, video cameras monitor game play; betting chips have built-in microcircuitry that interacts with electronic systems to allow casinos to oversee the exact amount of money wagered minute-by-minute and quickly detect any anomaly; and wheels are electronically monitored to discover any statistical deviation from expected results. Casinos also enforce security through rules of conduct and behavior.

From glitzy Las Vegas to regal Baden-Baden, these decadent temples of temptation are decked out in opulent furnishings and overflowing bars—and have elevated the art of placing a bet from mere hobby to bona fide pursuit. Here are our picks for the ten best places on earth to throw down some chips and see if luck smiles upon you.