Venice’s casinò is the oldest in the world. Established in 1638 the beautiful building that hosts it is directly facing canal grande, from the side of sestriere Cannaregio.

Casinò is the perfect spot to host socialite events in Venice. The first time I came here was for the closing party of biennale d’architettura.

The party was divided in two rooms, at second floor; there is an area dedicated to the buffet and another one with a wide dance-floor. The place is actually fancy, there are amazing ceilings, paintings and chandeliers; consequently, the dresscode is strict: nightshirt for men (plus jacket to go to the game rooms) and dresses for women.

During summer, there are free entrance parties every Thursday; in these occasions, the gardens in the backyard are open and not to be missed.

I believe though that the parties themselves are not the best thing, but rather the possibility to continue the night in the game rooms, when the music’s turned off.

The minimum stakes are quite high (20€), but usually the tables are not too crowded, so it’s easy to enjoy the game and feel the shiver of challenging fortune.

Casinò nights are perfect to taste the pleasure-loving side of Venice.