Casinos of Northern Cyprus. Tips for Beginners

This article is dedicated to those visiting a casino in Northern Cyprus for the first time.

• First Visit
• Gaming Process
• Casinos Worth Visiting
• Beginner’s Guide

First Visit

You approach the casino. At the entrance, security staff in black suits assess your appearance. If you are dressed appropriately (not in beachwear), you will be allowed in.

At the reception, you need to register for a player card — don’t forget to bring your passport. After registration, the card is in your hands, and your interest and excitement rise.

The gaming halls greet you with music, sparkling chandeliers and mirrors, a noisy crowd, loud shouts from roulette players, and focused expressions from poker players. Slot machines flash everywhere, a festive atmosphere pervades, and the scents of coffee, alcohol, and cigarettes fill the air.

Gaming Process

You decide what to play. During the game, you can order drinks, cigarettes, nuts, toast, or sandwiches for free from the waiter.

Casinos take care of their guests: even if you lose, you will still be offered a hearty dinner at the restaurant — almost like with family.

Should you go to a casino? Each person decides for themselves. The main thing is to treat the game as entertainment, not as a way to make money.

Casinos Worth Visiting

There are more than 30 casinos operating in Northern Cyprus, most of them located at 4- and 5-star hotels. Below are a few popular venues worth noting:

• Merit Royal Hotel & Casino — one of the largest casinos on the island. Popular among professional players, it hosts international poker tournaments.
• Kaya Palazzo Resort & Casino — notable for its impressive architecture and high level of service.
• Cratos Premium Hotel & Casino — a place where gambling combines with shows and nightlife.

Bets:

• Slot machines — from 10 Turkish Lira (some from 20)
• Roulette — from 25 to 50 USD

In all major casinos, minimum bets at table games may be higher — especially during evening hours and on weekends.

Beginner’s Guide

1. Age limit — entry to the casino from 21 years old.
2. Go for the atmosphere, not for the winnings.
3. Take losses with humor — it’s part of the game.
4. Remember that winning is unlikely, but possible.
5. Set aside for the game only the amount you can afford to lose.
6. Do not try to chase losses — it leads to bigger losses.
7. If you win — leave.
8. Always remember where the exit is.

Tip: if you just want to feel the atmosphere, you can visit the casino without playing — some venues allow this, especially if you order drinks at the bar.