The 14 Most Impressive Train Stations That Are Worth Traveling For

Train travel is a charming mode of transportation as nothing quite compares to the slow hum of the tracks, the anticipation of arrival, and the grand architecture of old stations. There are train stations that are more than just transit points; they are masterpieces of design, history, and culture.

These stations don’t just connect cities, they are meant to transport passengers to another era to show the artistic and architectural brilliance of their time. Here are 14 that are worth traveling for.

Grand Central Terminal – New York City, USA

Walking into Grand Central Terminal feels like stepping into a living museum. The grand staircases, the beautiful mythical ceiling mural, and the world-famous four-faced clock feature strong elements of architectural relief. It opened its doors in 1913 and has stood the test of time witnessing New York’s evolution. The Whispering Gallery and the secret track to the Waldorf Astoria are hidden gems that make visitors come back for more.

St. Pancras International – London, England

History and elegance combine harmoniously at St. Pancras International. The red-brick Gothic façade looks more like a palace than a train station. On the inside, the high-set iron-and-glass ceiling creates a sense of openness and grandeur. It was restored in the 2000s and is now the major Eurostar hub to Paris and beyond. It is also home to Europe’s longest champagne bar.

Gare du Nord – Paris, France

Gare du Nord is one of Europe’s busiest railway stations. Built on the grounds of the abandoned site of the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad’s Baltimore terminus, it was opened in 1864 and features a grand neoclassical façade with statues representing cities served by the station. The soaring ceilings and iron framework make it a timeless classic connecting travelers to cities like London, Brussels, and Amsterdam.

Antwerp Central Station – Antwerp, Belgium

Antwerp Central Station is a perfect architectural masterpiece, often referred to as the ‘Railway Cathedral’. Constructed in the 1900s, it blends stone, glass, and metal in a regal and inviting way. The massive dome and intricate detailing make it one of the most photographed train stations in the world. Tourists enjoy wandering through and admiring the craftsmanship of this Belgian landmark.

Kanazawa Station – Kanazawa, Japan

Kanazawa Station is a beautiful blend of tradition and modernity. The massive Tsuzumi Gate, composed of striking wooden pillars built in the image of a traditional Japanese drum and a glass dome, welcomes travelers into a futuristic yet warm space. The station reflects the city’s rich artistic heritage and contemporary design. It’s a place where Japan’s past and future seemingly meet.

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus – Mumbai, India

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus (previously known as Victoria Terminus) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which is a tasteful blend of Victorian Gothic and Indian architecture. This station was built in 1887 with domes, turrets, stained glass windows, and other elaborate features that make it a grand palace rather than a transit station. The station is a buzzing mix of commuters, vendors, and history woven together under one spectacular roof.

Helsinki Central Station – Helsinki, Finland

Finnish Art Nouveau is best seen in Helsinki Central Station. Its arched entryway features pairs of stone statues holding spherical lamps: a bold architectural statement. The station has been open since 1919 and is one of the emblematic symbols of Helsinki. The building even has a clock tower used as a meeting point for locals. In winter, when the structure is capped by snow, the station seems almost fairytale-like.

Atocha Station – Madrid, Spain

This Madrid station is more than just a train station, it’s an indoor tropical paradise. Palm trees tower over the station, and beautiful vegetation turns it into a lush botanical garden with small ponds full of turtles. Travelers waiting for their trains can enjoy the atmosphere while waiting. The contrast between the historic iron and glass structures and the greenery inside makes it one of the most visually appealing in Europe.

Liège-Guillemins Station – Liège, Belgium

Liège Guillemins Station was designed by Spanish architect Santiago Calatrava, who was inspired by nature. The white steel and glass structure has an airy, futuristic vibe. It opened in 2009 and is far more modern than Belgium’s old-school stations. The fluid, wave-like design makes travelers in awe of its beauty.

Kuala Lumpur Railway Station – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

The Kuala Lumpur Railway Station features Moorish, Gothic, and Indo-Saracenic architecture blended into one outstanding building. This historic jewel, built in 1910, is still loved by many even though newer rail stations have taken over most of Kuala Lumpur’s train traffic. It is a beautiful memory of earlier years and a great sight.

São Bento Station – Porto, Portugal

São Bento Station is a work of art. The stunning main hall is covered with over 20,000 blue and white azulejo tiles, illustrating Portugal’s history in great detail. The station was built in 1916 and is still a visual paradise for those who admire tilework. It’s a must-see for travelers who often can’t resist admiring the expert craftsmanship.

Dunedin Railway Station – Dunedin, New Zealand

Dunedin Railway Station is often called the ‘Gingerbread House’, a whimsical addition to the Edwardian architectural offerings. The stonework is a black-and-white checkerboard pattern and its stained glass windows and ornate detailing make it look like something out of a storybook. It was opened in 1906 and used to be a major transport hub. Nowadays, only scenic tourist trains can be found here. Architecture lovers will find this station an absolute treat.

Berlin Hauptbahnhof – Berlin, Germany

Berlin Hauptbahnhof is a modern engineering feat that was opened in 2006. It comprises multiple levels of glass and steel giving it a unique ambience. This is still one of Europe’s largest and busiest railway hubs, and it has remained significant through the years.

Tanggula Railway Station – Tibet, China

Tanggula Railway Station located at an altitude of over 16,600 feet is the highest train station in the world. It offers mind-boggling views of snowy peaks and stretches of land. The only sound heard at this height is the songs of the birds as there are no shops or restaurants. This stop is a moment of pure serenity amongst the clouds for travelers on the Tibet route.

Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.

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