Traveling by train is a great way to discover parts of countries we may not otherwise explore, and along for the ride are the magnificent train stations that were built to impress passengers from near and far. The stunning architecture and dramatic designs featured in these transportation hubs make catching a train an awe-inspiring experience. Check out some of the most amazing railway stations from around the world!
Grand Central Terminal
New York, USA
While Grand Central Terminal remains the busiest train station in the US, it’s also one of New York City’s most historical landmarks. Opened in 1913, customers can still purchase tickets through the original gold barred ticket windows, try out the whispering galleries, and gaze at gold-leafed signs of the zodiac on the ceiling, famously painted in reverse order.
St Pancras International
London, United Kingdom
This massive station took 20 years to build and, upon its completion in 1868, it was for some time the largest enclosed space in the world. The red brick Gothic façade remains a testament to England’s great Victorian architecture. Inside you can grab a seat at Europe’s longest champagne bar.
Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus
Mumbai, India
Built to honor Queen Victoria, this Victorian Gothic Revival station was completed in 1888 after 10 years of construction. The palace-like exterior served as a symbol of Bombay’s prestige within the British Empire and has earned it a spot on the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The terminal now connects Mumbai and its suburbs with an impressive three million commuters passing through it each day.
São Bento Railway Station
Porto, Portugal
Celebrated for its exquisite blue and white mural depicting scenes from Portugal’s history, it took artist Jorge Colaço 14 years to complete the masterpiece made of 20,000 tin-glazed ceramic tiles. The exterior is just as impressive with inspiration drawn from Parisian architecture.
Kanazawa Station
Kanazawa, Japan
First opened in 1898, the ultra-modern entrance to the station was unveiled in 2005 to mixed reviews, but it has become a much-admired site since. The station’s hand-drum-shaped wooden Tsuzumi Gate and glass and steel Motenashi dome have come to stand for the fusion of modern technology with traditional forms. Outside, a futuristic fountain displays the time like a digital clock.
Antwerp Central
Antwerp, Belgium
No expense was spared in building this station at the turn of the 20th century. Completed in 1905, the opulent neo-Baroque station contains more than 20 types of marble and stone. A handsome antique clock marks the time for passengers waiting to catch a train under the iron and glass vaulted ceiling.
Haydarpaşa Terminal
Istanbul, Turkey
Madrid Atocha
Madrid, Spain
Dunedin Railway Station
Dunedin, New Zealand
Milano Centrale
Milan, Italy
Kuala Lumpur Railway Station
Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Gare du Nord
Paris, France
Washington Union Station
Washington, DC, USA
