Last updated on December 11th, 2024 at 06:12 am
After the legalisation of online casinos, the Dutch gambling market has become one of the fastest growing in Europe. The annual turnover of the sector reached 1.4 billion euros and continues to grow. Moreover, more than 60% of local players prefer to play from mobile devices.
There are about 20 websites holding a Kansspelautoriteit (KSA) licence. Another 20-30 casinos are at the stage of obtaining authorisation documents. According to forecasts, the total market turnover is expected to reach a record 2 billion euros in the coming years.
History and Traditions of Gambling in the Netherlands
The first casinos in the Netherlands appeared in the 1970s. And as the portal https://sportschap.nl writes, with the support of the state in 1976 the first official establishment – Holland Casino – was founded. After 14 years, 8 branches were opened in Amsterdam, Rotterdam and other major cities of the country.
In 1986, the first slot machines appeared in the establishments, which increased the industry’s revenues by 1.5 times. By the end of the 1990s, the games brought in more than 300 million euros a year. Holland Casino became a monopoly in the offline gambling sector. This allowed the state to control revenues and minimise illegal operations.
Lotteries, which have existed since the 15th century, have played an important role in shaping the culture of gambling. For example, the Staatsloterij, founded in 1726, is still considered one of the oldest state lotteries in the world. Its revenues were used to finance social and infrastructure projects. This approach has built public confidence in the industry.
Modern casinos in the Netherlands are a successful combination of tradition and the latest technology. Land-based establishments focus on classic games – roulette, poker, blackjack – while the online sector concentrates on video slots and live games.
Types of Casinos in the Netherlands
Dutch players have access to traditional offline casinos and entertainment websites with unique formats. Both have their strengths and weaknesses.
Offline Casino – Holland Casino And Other Venues
Holland Casino is a state-owned casino chain. Today there are 14 branches located in The Hague, Utrecht, Amsterdam, Rotterdam. They strictly comply with the requirements of Kansspelautoriteit, guaranteeing fair and honest game conditions. Such establishments offer a solid range of entertainment:
- Table games – poker, roulette, baccarat, blackjack;
- Slot machines of different types;
- Unique shows and events (music evenings, exhibitions).
One of the most popular venues is Holland Casino Amsterdam Centrum, which welcomes thousands of tourists and local punters every year. There are VIP lounges for guests who prefer privacy, as well as restaurants and bars with exotic cuisine.
Online Casinos – Leading Platforms and Popular Sites
Since the legalisation of online gambling in 2021, the market has grown by leaps and bounds. There are now more than 20 licensed online casinos operating in the Netherlands, including:
- nl – specialises in slots and sports betting;
- Toto Casino – Offers a wide range of games and regular tournaments;
- Holland Casino Online is the digital branch of the famous live gaming network.
Online casinos compare favourably with accessibility. Users can participate in games at any time and from any device. The range of entertainment includes thousands of variants – slots, lotteries, poker, crash games, scratch cards and much more.
Features and Differences between Traditional and Online Establishments
The main difference between offline and online casinos is the way they interact with players. Traditional establishments create a unique atmosphere through live socialising, luxurious interiors and value-added services. In turn, websites offer 24/7 access to entertainment from anywhere in the world and bonuses.
| Parameter | Online casinos | Offline casino |
| Accessibility | Play 24/7 from anywhere with an internet connection | Requires a physical visit to the establishment |
| Assortment of games | Over 10,000 games: slots, roulette, blackjack, poker, live games | Limited number of tables and machines |
| Atmosphere | There is no social component | Communicating with other players |
| Bonuses | Welcome packages, free spins, cashback, tournaments | Bonuses are rare, sometimes free drinks or chips |
| Budget control | Options for self-exclusion, setting bet and deposit limits | Limits depend on the player’s self-control |
| Odds | Minimum bets start at 0.01 euros | Typically, minimum bets start at 1 euro |
| Safety | Licensed casinos provide encryption and data protection | Security controls at the entrance, but no digital defence |
| Convenience of payments | Various methods: cards, e-wallets, cryptocurrency | Limited to cash or bank cards |
| Technologies | The latest features: crash games, VR, live dealer entertainment | Traditional games without digital technology |
| Loyalty programmes | Virtual points, VIP levels, exclusive promos for regular players | Programmes are available but often limited to VIP guests |
Casinos And Tourism
Dutch casinos have long been part of the tourist itinerary. In addition to museums, Amsterdam canals and cultural attractions, travellers are attracted by gambling. For example, Holland Casino is visited by hundreds of thousands of guests every year, among them many foreigners. Such establishments offer restaurants, bars, parties, concerts and cultural programmes.
According to travel agencies, about 20 per cent of international tourists in the Netherlands visit at least one casino. Most of the guests are from Germany, the UK and France. In addition, many casinos cooperate with hotels, organising “gaming + leisure” packages.
What are the Best Casinos for Tourists to Visit?
If you plan to visit a casino while travelling to the Netherlands, favour these establishments:
- Holland Casino Amsterdam Centrum – Located in the city centre, Holland Casino Amsterdam Centrum is known for its sophisticated interiors and wide selection of games. It hosts themed evenings and cookery shows.
- Holland Casino Rotterdam is an ultra-modern room with hundreds of slots, poker tournaments and roulette. Attracts with entertainment programmes featuring professional DJs and musicians.
- Holland Casino Scheveningen is one of the most beautiful Dutch casinos on the North Sea coast, which attracts with panoramic views of the beach. The hall is divided into several gaming areas – with machines, card and table games.
- Jack’s Casino Eindhoven is a small but cosy establishment in Eindhoven. It is famous for its friendly atmosphere and quality service. The main highlight is a beautiful bar with craft drinks and exotic snacks.
Dutch casinos combine a variety of games, safety and attention to detail. From cosy lounges to cutting-edge VR technology, there is something for everyone. They have become part of city life and tourism, offering not only games but also a glimpse of the country’s culture.
