Dragonara Casino — Attraction in Saint Julian's

Palazzo Dragonara is a palace in St. Julian's, Malta. It was built in 1870 by Damiano Alberti as a summer residence of Emmanuele Scicluna, a banker who became a marquis in 1875.

Dragonara Palace is built in neoclassical architecture, and its colonnades are inspired by those of Villa Portelli and Palazzo Capua.

Some rooms of the palace contain frescoes painted by Vincenzo Maria Cremona. The fresco in the Yellow Room shows military and floral paraphernalia, as well as a bird holding a garland of roses. The ceiling panels of the Green Room has frescoes showing a personification of industry.

The palace opened as a casino on 15 July 1964, at a time when nearby Paceville began its transition from a mainly agricultural area to a tourist hub. The Dragonara Casino was the first casino in Malta, and this was a major step in establishing Malta as a tourist destination. It receives about 350,000 patrons annually, making it the most popular casino in Malta.

The palace is named after Dragonara Point, the peninsula on which it was built. According to local legend, a dragon lived in caves near the peninsula whose roars reached the shore. The roaring was probably the sound of the waves breaking the rocks or the howling of the wind. It is believed that the rumours of the dragon were spread by smugglers to discourage people from going to the area.

Chef Claudio Schiavone is really amazing. I really enjoyed the local sea bass.

If you are in Malta, this is one of the places you have to experience.

The lines may be long to get in, but worth the experience.

Make sure you take your government ID and be prepared for people smoking everywere including when you are dining...

I have been to so many casinos around the world, but this was the worst place I ever visited. The guy named Steve at the reception was very rude and racist. He asked me for my passport, ID , drivers licence. It was just like you are entering a country and taking your interview with an immigration officer to request permission to enter the country. I requested him to let me have a sneak peak inside to see if I like the atmosphere, and then I would like to register. He simply refused and said if you don't like our policy then go and complain the prime minister. Come on. Is this the way you welcome people who come and spend money in your country? More over he asked me if I have enough money to play. He almost asked me to show him the money. Why someone visiting a couple of days give you all his private information? Can't you just check the ID to let people in? The other guy who just finished his registration told me that the lady on the counter asked him if he has a bank account in Malta. How many visitors have their bank accounts here to come and visit a casino. Very bad experience. These people spoiled my new years eve. Not worth giving away your info. Don't get fooled by these scammers. I just met a lady who came out. She also had a fight with reception people on...

The Dragonara Casino in Malta is undoubtedly one of the most prestigious entertainment venues on the island. The location is stunning, situated on a peninsula offering breathtaking views, and the refined atmosphere perfectly complements its wide and diverse selection of games, catering to both beginners and experienced players. The staff is highly professional, always attentive to guests’ needs, and the dining services are exceptional, with dishes that delight the palate.

However, there is one aspect that could be improved to make the experience even more enjoyable, especially during the winter months. The interior can feel a bit cold, with temperatures that are not always comfortable for those looking to enjoy a relaxing and stimulating evening. Increasing the heating, particularly in the common areas and gaming rooms, would help create a warmer and more welcoming atmosphere, ideal for enhancing guests’ overall experience. A more balanced indoor temperature could positively impact the ambiance, making it not only pleasant but also more engaging.

With this minor adjustment, the Dragonara Casino could further solidify its position as the ideal destination for gaming and relaxation, offering impeccable comfort in...