Casinos on the islands
The Greek islands are not only snow-white houses and azure seas, but also centers of elite casino tourism, where excitement is combined with history, gastronomy and natural beauty.
Rhodes, Corfu and Santorini have become key points of attraction for players who are looking for not just a game, but an atmosphere - overlooking the sea, surrounded by ancient architecture and the spirit of Greek freedom.
1) Rhodes - Art Deco legend and history in every room
Casino Rhodes
Location: In the heart of the island's capital, Rhodes, next to the port of Mandraki
History: Opened in 1929 by Italians, in the building of the former Grande Albergo delle Rose Hotel.
Architecture: exquisite Art Deco with oriental elements and marble halls decorated with frescoes and columns.
Games:- 300 + slots, roulette, blackjack, baccarat, poker, separate VIP rooms for high rollers.
- Feature: the casino is located in a historic building and operates around the clock during the summer season.
- Atmosphere: a combination of European elegance and the spirit of the Eastern Mediterranean.
- Role: Cultural landmark and one of Rhodes' main nightlife hubs
2) Corfu - an aristocratic classic of the Ionian Sea
Casino Corfu
Location: Corfu, in an old Venetian villa.
History: Opened in the 1960s, it is considered one of the oldest casinos in Europe.
Architecture: Neoclassical mansion with 19th-century marble staircases and chandeliers
Games:- about 100 machines, roulette, blackjack, poker, elegant mini-room for VIP guests.
- Audience: connoisseurs of atmosphere and calm leisure - European tourists, diplomats, yacht owners.
- The difference: Casino Corfu combines the aristocratic charm of old Europe with Greek hospitality.
- Format: small casino, where the emphasis is on atmosphere and personal service, and not on scale.
3) Santorini is the future of casino tourism
Casino Santorini Project (in development)
Status: In preparation - the government and investors are discussing opening the first casino in Santorini by 2027.
The goal: the creation of an "elite boutique casino resort," combining a gambling zone, a boutique hotel, SPA and terrace restaurants overlooking the caldera.
Location: The neighborhood of Imerovigli or Fira, in a premium tourism zone.
Format: the concept of "slow luxury" is the minimum of visitors, the maximum of quality and privacy.
Project features:- architecture in the style of blue and white domes, environmental technologies, limited access (by invitation or VIP cards).
- The task: to strengthen Santorini as a center of "luxury leisure" and develop the island segment of gambling tourism.
4) The island phenomenon of casino tourism
Seasonality: peak attendance - from May to October, during the period of active tourism.
Integration with resorts: Most casinos are associated with 4-5 hotels, yachts, spas and restaurants.
Audience: Tourists from Europe, the Middle East and Asia looking for a game in an atmosphere of privacy and aesthetics.
Marketing: promo under the brand "Play under the Greek sun" - a unique format of entertainment in the open air, by the sea.
Economy: island casinos provide up to 20% of revenues from the entire gambling sector in Greece and actively develop local communities.
5) Control and regulation
All casinos operate under the Hellenic Gaming Commission (EEEP) license.
Mandatory measures:- age control (21 +), Responsible Gaming, player identification (KYC).
- Casinos participate in government programs to promote sustainable tourism and support local initiatives.
6) Cultural and tourism effect
Casino Rhodes and Casino Corfu are not just playrooms, but historical objects included in the cultural heritage of their regions.
Casinos stimulate the development of the night economy, gastronomy and event industry.
Rhodes and Corfu actively host international tournaments and poker series, which increases the flow of premium tourists.
7) Forecast to 2030
Santorini would join Rhodes and Corfu in forming the "island triangle of casino-tourism."
Development of cruise routes with stops at casinos.
Increasing interest in VIP tourism: yachts, private jets, high-limit lounges.
Technology integration - AR/VR rooms, omnichannel programs (offline + online casinos).
Casinos in Rhodes, Corfu and Santorini's future are three facets of the same Greek legend. They combine history, marine aesthetics and excitement, creating a unique luxury atmosphere.
The island casinos of Greece are not just a place to play, but an embodiment of the philosophy of Hellenic pleasure, where the sea, architecture and game form a harmony unparalleled in Europe.
By 2030, Greece will finally consolidate its status as a Mediterranean paradise for connoisseurs of casino tourism.