When traveling through Europe, visiting sporting events or on city breaks, it can be hard to know local laws and customs. Despite having an overall Eurozone regulation, each country has its own take on gambling.
From legislation to how many bookmakers or casinos are around if you want to make a bet it pays to know the lay of the land before you go. Below, we attempt to help any visitor to Germany with our beginner’s guide to gambling in the country.
Online betting and gambling
Online betting and casinos are not just allowed in Germany, but they are thriving. A huge number of platforms, from bingo sites to sportsbooks are available. Many of them may also be the same ones that are available in your country of origin, particularly the UK. If this is the case, you should not need to download any new applications or complete sign-ups to use them here.
For those who are just starting, then Bonusfinder Germany has already arranged the best online casino bonuses currently on offer, so you can get started right away. These will include table games and slot offers, and it will tell you if the provider takes sports betting.
It is worth noting that if you use services through your device, then check your roaming agreement if your provider originates outside Germany. You do not want to see your bankroll eaten up by mobile phone tariffs.
Physical casinos
When it comes to land-based casinos, visitors to Germany will be spoilt for choice. Most of the major cities such as Berlin and Cologne have a few casinos, some of which are well worth your time. You can combine them with an evening out, as many are close to major tourist attractions.
However, Germany also has a lot of historical casinos. Back in the Napoleonic era when casino games were banned in France, many wealthy patrons would come over the border to Germany. This led to many casinos appearing in rural locations, mainly spa towns where they combined with splendid hotels.
The town of Baden-Baden is one of the most famous, and its casino, known as the Kurhaus, is one of the oldest in the world. Built in 1824, it was even used by celebrities in later years such as Marlene Dietrich. However, it also has the reputation of being one of the most expensive in Europe.
Bookmakers
Source: Unsplash
Germany has few restrictions on how or where bookmakers can set up shop. You will find many establishments from well-known names, along with ones specific to Germany and Europe.
By far, the most popular sport in Germany is football. Many of the Bundesliga teams have their bookmakers built into their stadiums. They are useful if you want to make a bet before the game and even during play.
For anyone who wants to visit the horse races, the sport has taken off over the past ten years in the country. It now has some outstanding tracks and facilities, which include trackside bookmakers.
Wherever you go in Germany, you can be guaranteed to find both online and offline options. Gamble responsibly, choose your favorite sports, and enjoy your trip.