A casino embodies the concept of a luxurious, glamorous and timeless environment, which has its own language, currency and etiquette. Casinos provide the location and facilities for players to try their luck at a wide range of gambling games, in which the casino acts as banker, paying out winning bets and collecting losing bets. Working under strict controls aimed at preventing cheating, professional dealers, called croupiers, operate the games, which include roulette, blackjack, punto banco (baccarat), poker, craps and slot machines. In general casinos can be divided into two categories. City-center casinos tend to be more formal, imposing stricter dress codes and relatively high minimum stakes. Resort and smaller provincial casinos, which are usually more relaxed, allow casual wear and offer low minimum stakes.

Casino Operators spend vast sums of money on lavish decor to attract customers. The most flamboyant concepts and designs are found in Las Vegas and other popular holiday resorts around the world. European casinos, especially those in cities, are often less ornate.

One inside the casino, the interiors are carefully designed to keep players there. Windows and clocks are absent, to make the passing of time less noticeable. Waiters bring refreshments directly to the gaming tables so there is no need to stop gambling if you are hungry or thirsty. Many casinos also provide in-house entertainment such as variety shows or revues, to keep players and non-players amused.

Guests at casino hotels and day visitors to casinos are not necessarily afforded any special treatment, but high-rollers (regular gamblers who are known to be big spenders), get VIP (Very Important Person) treatment at their favored casinos. They are provided with extras such as free hotel accommodation, meals and drinks, the best seats for shows, and chauffeur-driven limousines. They may even be flown in on specially chartered jets.