Betting shop guides

What this section covers

Here we explain in plain English how a visit to the betting shop works and what you can do once you are there. You will learn how to get your bearings at the counter and the self-service terminal, how to read odds and bet types, and how a cash payout works. The guides are general and are no substitute for personal advice. You need to be 18 or over (21 in Bremen).

It usually starts with finding a betting shop near you. Our search for betting shops in your town brings up locations with their address, opening hours and directions. Once inside, the notice board and the screens help you find your way. Many shops show selected live sport on the big screens, so you can follow the matches in comfort.

A few simple steps make it all easier. Check the opening hours first, then find the right shop and look over the bet types and how things work once you are there. A customer card is optional, depending on the shop, and makes things smoother. If betting stops being fun, the relevant guides point you to player protection and support services.