Along with a chance to win some nice cash, playing a major poker tournament series can also be a great way to travel and see the world. Some of the world’s best poker destinations allow players to enjoy fine cuisine, bask in the sunshine, and, of course, play some cards.
Imagine jumping into a Caribbean stud poker game in the Caribbean!
Whether players are looking for excellent entertainment options or ready to hit the outdoors, poker travel can be a great way to combine travel with tournament poker.
Here are 888poker’s top nine great spots to consider for your list of best poker vacation destinations.
1 – Las Vegas
No list of poker destinations would be complete without Sin City. There is a massive poker scene, including major series like the World Series of Poker and World Poker Tour, and plenty of other options.
When considering where to play poker in Vegas, options can include nightclubs, music, fine dining, and plenty of people watching.
The Vegas pool scene is legendary and a great way to beat the summer heat. There are even great outdoor hiking opportunities like Red Rock Canyon, Lake Mead, and Mount Charleston.
When it comes to poker vacation destinations, Las Vegas should be on every list.
2 – London
Jolly old England beckons players from around the world and regularly hosts some high-stakes action – including the 888poker LIVE series in August. This city features historic casinos and plenty of big-name poker players.
888poker regularly hosts major events, with players from around the world attending.
Beyond the poker felt, there is so much to see and do – West End theatres, the Tower of London, Buckingham Palace, and so much more. For something truly different, a trip to Stonehenge might be on the agenda. Or book a tour through White Chapel, home of the historical Jack the Ripper murders.
And after a long day at the poker tables, an order of fish and chips should be on the menu - at least once!
3 – Spain
Take in plenty of history with a trip to Spain, where poker has boomed over the last decade. Barcelona has hosted several major tournament series in recent years.
Players can dip in the serene Mediterranean waters, check out classic architecture, visit a flamenco show, enjoy a wine tour, or walk the historic streets of this metropolitan city.
A ticket to an FC Barcelona match should also be on the agenda for any fútbol fan. 888poker LIVE is even set to visit this historic city in May 2024.
Madrid is a popular poker vacation destination as a regular stop for several major tours, including 888poker LIVE in January 2024.
Grab a bite to eat in the Plaza Mayor or tour the royal palace. The Spanish capital is steeped in history and won’t disappoint from a poker or travel perspective.
4 – Macau
Tournament poker has slowly returned to this island poker destination, which is the only location in China that legally allows casino gambling. Rub elbows with high rollers from the mainland if you can afford the trip.
Poker’s biggest names, such as Phil Ivey and Tom Dwan, play in some of the island’s nosebleed stakes cash games.
Macau recently regained its position as the world's casino gaming revenue leader. The WPT Poker Tour announced it would visit the island for the first time this year.
Plan to jump in the action and live like a high roller in this truly unique poker spot.
5 – Los Angeles
Head to Hollywood for a great poker scene. Properties like the Commerce Casino and Bicycle Clubs have been some of the leading poker venues in the industry for years, hosting WPT series and other major events.
Poker legend Doyle Brunson won his lone WPT title in 2004 at the Bike’s Legends of Poker event. At age 71, he was and remains the tour’s oldest winner.
A visit to L.A. includes numerous options for regular and strip poker and plenty of opportunities for excellent sightseeing. Hit Hollywood and Vine for music clubs, or head to the beach for fun in the sun. L.A. also has a growing craft beer scene. Disneyland or grabbing a seat at a Lakers, Rams, or Dodgers game is an option as well.
For those celebrity watchers, check out the Hollywood Walk of Fame, attend a television show filming – or win a tournament to become a bit of a star yourself.
6 – Brazil
In recent years, the land of samba and sun has become one of the world's poker hotspots. The online game is surging, and live poker also continues to grow.
The country now hosts several major live poker series, and nearby Uruguay also caters to players looking to cross the border for even more action.
Some of the country’s players, such as Yuri Martins Dzivielevski and Felipe Tavares Ramos, have become some of the biggest names in the game.
Are you heading to Rio de Janeiro for some card playing? There are numerous options beyond the tables. The city offers miles and miles of pristine beaches to relax and enjoy the soft sand and ocean waves.
Music lovers may want to check out some of the city's music clubs—this is the land of the samba and bossa nova, after all.
This football-mad country is also perfect for sports fans to catch a match. This poker destination can be truly brilliant.
So, brush up on that Portuguese and book that airfare.
7 – Monte Carlo
Live the lifestyle of the rich and famous by taking a trip to Monaco. Monte Carlo is one of Europe’s oldest and most high-end gambling meccas. The city regularly hosts major tours and attracts players from around the world.
This country is one of the world’s most exclusive and wealthiest, making it a standout poker destination for those looking to taste the good life.
Monaco is the second-smallest sovereign state in the world, after Vatican City, but boasts plenty of travel opportunities beyond looking for pocket Aces and a clean poker board.
- The Oceanographic Museum is considered one of the best aquariums in Europe.
- Car lovers can check out the Prince of Monaco’s auto collection.
- Visiting Larvotto Beach can also be a great way to unwind in the cool Mediterranean waters.
- The Formula One Monaco race has been running on the island since 1929.
France and Italy are only a few hours away for those even more adventurous.
8 – France
Head to this country for plenty of action and the chance to taste some excellent cuisine. The home of Bertrand “ElkY” Grospellier has one of the most active poker scenes in Europe. From the European Poker Tour to the WPT, there’s seemingly always a major tournament going on.
France may be unmatched as a poker destination, with plenty of history and awe-inspiring architecture. For authentic culture, visit the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre.
Head to Bordeaux for a tour through the country’s famed wine-growing region.
Plenty of fun awaits on a poker trip to France. Vive la France!
9 – Ireland
Perhaps the luck of the Irish will be on your side when visiting this poker destination. Popular events like the Irish Poker Tour, the Irish Poker Open, and the Dublin Poker Festival are thriving.
Successful Irish players like Dara O’Kearney and Max Silver have helped grow the game on the Emerald Isle. Hit the tables and then grab a pint at a local pub to cap off a nice day of card playing.
Other activities that might be on the itinerary include:
- Outdoor time at Killarney National Park and the Cliffs of Moher.
- Visiting a castle.
- Taking a few sips (or more) at the Irish Whiskey Museum, and so much more.
Hopefully, a poker pot of gold and plenty of adventure await you on that upcoming Irish getaway.
