(short): Casino Carrasco (Montevideo)

Casino Carrasco in Montevideo (most famous)

Introduction

Casino Carrasco is the hallmark of Uruguay's gambling scene: a five-star palace on the banks of the Rio de la Plata, now functioning as Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco & Spa. It is both a historical landmark and a modern entertainment complex with a casino, hotel, spa and restaurant "1921."

History: from the "golden twenties" to restoration

The project was conceived as a resort symbol of the eastern outskirts of Montevideo. The ceremonial inauguration took place on February 4, 1921; the authors of the building were the French Jacques Dunant and Gaston-Louis Mallet (with the participation of engineer Felix Helena).

In the 20th century, the casino hotel became a place of attraction for the cultural elite; by the 2000s, a large-scale restoration was required. The complex reopened in March 2013 after a major rebuild under the Sofitel brand.

Architecture and hotel

The neoclassical-baroque "palace" on the Rambla Carrasco is a national heritage monument with ceremonial halls, terraces and views of the Rio de la Plata. The room stock and spa have been revived in the spirit of grand-hôtel: luxury suites (including the Imperial Suite), branded So Spa/So Fit and gastronomy "1921."

Casino: What's inside

According to the hotel's profile cards, there are ≈400 slot machines and about 10 gaming tables (roulette, blackjack, etc.) on the site, as well as a sports book/betting area and VIP lounges.

Casino Carrasco's official website announces show programs, the Unique Club loyalty club and regular promotions.

Who manages the facility

Since 2013, the casino concession has been run by Carrasco Nobile S.A. (a subsidiary of Codere), while the hotel is managed by Accor under the Sofitel brand. This split model (casino operator/hotel operator) is typical of Uruguayan resorts.

Role in the city and tourism

Casino Carrasco is the anchor of the prestigious Carrasco district, 15-20 minutes from the old Ramblas centre. Format "resort-weekend": beach/embankment during the day, spa and gastronomy - in the evening, shows and casinos - at night. The 2013 restoration is often cited as an example of the careful revitalization of Montevideo's architectural and tourist "icon."

Legal and fiscal context (short)

Offline casinos in Uruguay are legal under the state model/concessions under the auspices of the Ministry of Economy and Finance (DGC). Carrasco is a concession facility (see above).

From August 12, 2025, a unified rule applies: Impuesto a las Apuestas (IA) - 0.75% of the amount of each bet (cash, chips, electronic funds). The operator holds and lists in the DGI; the norm is enshrined by Decree No. 167/025.

Practical advice to the guest

When to go: high season - southern summer (December-March); offseason is nice for gastronomy and spa.

What to expect for games: the main focus is slots; there are fewer tables than megacourts, but there are VIP rooms and a sports book. Check the current list of games and shows on official announcements.

Dress code/etiquette: smart casual for lounges and restaurants is the working standard for Carrasco.

Responsible play: focus on DGC and support tips; Uruguay has state aid lines.

Key facts with one glance

Address and brand: Sofitel Montevideo Casino Carrasco & Spa (Carrasco District, Rambla)

Inauguration year of the historic casino hotel: 1921; architects - J. Dunant and G.-L. Malle.

Restoration and relaunch: March 2013.

Estimated by casino: ≈400 slots, ~ 10 tables, sports book, VIP-halls.

Casino operator: Carrasco Nobile (Codere); hotel - Accor (Sofitel).

Rate tax: IA 0.75% on each rate (from 12. 08. 2025), the operator holds and lists.