Beautiful railway stations are undeniably a city's most treasured architectural landmarks, with non-stop flights going seemingly everywhere. People tend to prefer the sky over the rail. That said, there is something nostalgic and even glamorous about boarding a train that cannot be replicated in any other form of transportation, especially planes, which are becoming increasingly modern by the year. After all, iconic railway stations worldwide are often credited with completely transforming the United States in nearly every regard during the most financially lucrative period, the Gilded Age.
With the rise in popularity of trains throughout the latter half of the 19th century, some of the stations are surprisingly beautiful works of architectural magic. With the celestial-inspired frescoes on the towering ceilings and the glossy red brick floors, the most stunning train stations are a testament to the economic boom that these transportation centres introduced. Whether it's on your daily commute or on adventures across the globe, you would be amazed to find that some of the world's most stunning architectural train stations can be found.
The spectacular Gothic railway architecture of London's St Pancras International is compared to the Art Deco and Spanish Colonial styles of John and Donald Parkinson's Union Station. The dramatic designs featured in these transportation centres make catching a train an awe-inspiring experience. Next time you find yourself booking a worldly adventure, make sure to plan at any one of these renowned and scenic train stations.
1. World Trade Centre Transportation Hub, New York, USA
Architect Santiago Calatrava's highly anticipated World Trade Centre Transportation Hub opened in March in Lower Manhattan. The centrepiece of the project is the 800,000-square-foot glass and steel structure known as the Oculus. The centre connects 11 subway lines, the PATH, famous railway stations, the Battery Park City Ferry Terminal, and several downtown buildings. The main hall features a 355-foot retractable skylight and white marble floors. The Oculus is now home to the 365,000-square-foot Westfield World Trade Centre mall, which opened in August 2023.
2. Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, Malaysia
Designed by a British government architect named Arthur Benison Hubback and opened in 1910, the Kuala Lumpur historic railway station in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is a neo-Moorish delight —a fantastical agglomeration of minarets, dome-capped pavilions, and articulated archways. Now more of a hub for commuters than tourists, the magnificent white and cream Anglo-Asian station is still worth a stop.
3. Kanazawa Station, Japan
When Kanazawa's Circa 1898 world's most beautiful train stations were upgraded in 2005, the initial reactions were mixed. The addition of the ultramodern glass and steel dome and giant, drum-shaped wooden gate has struck many as ill-fitting. However, visitors continue to flock to the Ishikawa, Japan, station's dramatic additions. And the latest structures attract competes handily with the historical town's other attractions, including a geisha district and former samurai quarters at this picturesque train station.
4. Grand Central Terminal, New York, USA
An architectural icon, Grand Central Terminal in New York dazzles with its ornate ceiling chandeliers and Beaux-Arts design. Opened in 1913, it remains a bustling hub and cultural landmark. The whispering gallery, vast concourse, and opulent details make it more than an architectural marvel —a railway station; it's a timeless symbol of New York's grandeur.
5. St Pancras International, London, UK
St Pancras International, London, impresses with its Victorian Gothic facade and soaring iron and glass train shed. Opened in 1868, it was revitalised as a Eurostar hub. Inside elegant boutiques, restaurants, and the famous statue of the Meeting Place, this historic city enhances its romantic atmosphere by blending historic charm with modern sophistication, making travel unforgettable with its Gothic railway architecture.
6. Antwerp Central Station, Belgium
It is nicknamed the Railway Cathedral, located in Antwerp, Central Belgium, and it combines grandeur and detail like few others. Built in 1905, it features a massive dome, marble interiors, and ornate ironwork. The contrast between its historic main hall and sleek modern platforms creates a striking harmony, making it one of Europe's most photogenic and best train stations to visit in the world.
7. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, Mumbai, India
One of the prominent UNESCO World Heritage Sites, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, the station is a masterpiece of Victorian Gothic architecture. Its blending of elements of Indian influence was completed in 1887. It showcases turrets, stained glass, carvings, and a dramatic central dome, making it one of India's busiest and must-see railway stations. It reflects both colonial history and modern vibrancy, symbolising Mumbai's energy.
8. Gare du Nord, Paris, France
Opened in 1864, Gare du Nord is one of the busiest stations in Europe. Its neoclassical facade adorned with statues representing international cities reflects Parisian elegance. Inside soaring arches and a grand concourse, millions of travellers are welcomed in a luxury train station. It's not just a gateway to northern Europe but also a Parisian landmark.
9. São Bento Station, Porto, Portugal
São Bento enchants visitors with its iconic azulejo tile panels, which depict Portuguese history in a blue and white artistry. Built in 1916, the station is a cultural treasure as much as a transport hub. Its combination of Belle Epoque architecture and stunning artwork makes it one of the most atmospheric and unique train stations in Europe.
10. Liege Guillemins Station, Belgium
Designed by Santiago Calatrava, this futuristic station opened in 2009 and features sweeping curves, glass and steel. Its cathedral-like structures are a modern architectural marvel bathed in natural light. The artistic train station's innovative design symbolises movement and progress, making it not just a transportation hub but an architectural icon of modern Belgium.
11. Helsinki Central Station, Finland
Completed in 1919, Helsinki Central is one of the National Romantic railway station masterpieces featuring granite walls and a mind-blowing clock tower. The most fantastic features are the four stone giants holding spherical lamps at the entrance. The four-stone ginat is functional yet elegant, the station embodies Finnish design principles of simplicity and strength, welcoming travellers with timeless charm.
12. Dunedin Railway Station, New Zealand
It is often referred to as the Gingerbread House. Dundee Cultural Railway Station impresses with its Flemish Renaissance-style mosaic floors, stained glass windows, and intricate decorative details. Completed in 1906, it reflects New Zealand's Edwardian grandeur. Although less busy today, it houses a restaurant and sports hall, and remains one of the most photographed buildings and heritage train stations in the country.
13. Kings Cross Station, London, UK
King's Cross Station, which was opened in 1852, is one of London's most famous and busiest railway terminals. It is renowned for its magnificent Victorian architecture and modern train station design, which connects London to major cities in the UK and Europe. It is a cultural icon and is also world famous for the fictional platform 9 3/4 from the Harry Potter series, which attracts fans globally. Since it combines historical significance with pop culture, King's Cross station is one of the most beautiful railway stations, being both a significant transport centre and a historical destination.
14. Madrid Atocha Station, Spain
Madrid's Atocha Station is Spain's largest railway station. As it was opened in 1851, the remarkable iron and glass structure houses a lush tropical garden inside. Thus, creating a serene oasis amid busy transit. Blending modern high-speed connections with a historic architectural train station, Atocha is both a gateway to Spain and a cultural attraction admired by travellers for its beauty and unique atmosphere. It's both a cultural landmark and a bustling transport hub in Madrid.
15. Central Railway Station, Sydney, Australia
Sydney's Central Railway Station is the city's main transport hub and Australia's most stunning train station. It was opened in 1906. Its heritage sandstone façade and iconic clock tower give it timeless charm. It serves as the heart of Sydney's rail network, connecting regional and interstate trains, light rail, and buses. A blend of history and modern transit, Central Station is not only a vital commuter point but also a landmark of Sydney's identity.
16. Estacion del Norte, Valencia, Spain
Estación del Norte of Valencia is an architectural gem and historic railway station built in 1917 in the Art Nouveau style. The station is known for its ornate precursor, featuring mosaic and decorative ceramic tiles, and is no longer a Valencian hub; it is now a cultural attraction as a transport centre. It works in regional and long-distance trains, which welcome passengers with elegance and hospitality. Located near the city centre, there is a brilliant symbol of Valencia's artistic and architectural legacy, which is an iconic railway station worldwide.
17. Berlin Hauptbahnhof, Germany
Berlin Hauptbahnhof in Germany was opened in 2006. It is Europe's largest and, at the same time, one of its most scenic train stations. The distinctive characteristics of a striking glass and steel design make it a central hub for Germany's extensive railway network, which connects high-speed trains throughout Europe. Spread over many levels, it combines functionality with future architecture. In addition to transportation, it features shops, restaurants, and services, making it a vibrant city centre. Hauptbahnhof, a famous railway station, is a valid symbol of Berlin's forward-looking spirit and connectivity.
18. Moscow Kazansky Railway Station, Russia
Moscow's Kazansky Railway Station, designed by architect Alexey Shchusev, is one of the city's most iconic and picturesque train stations. Inspired by Russian medieval and Tatar architecture, it features a tall spire and intricate detailing. Opened in 1864 and later expanded, it serves trains heading to Kazan, Siberia and Central Asia. With its blend of history, grandeur, and scale, Kazansky Station is the world's most beautiful train station, serving as both a functional transport hub and a cultural architectural landmark in Moscow.
19. Porto São Bento Station, Portugal
Porto São Bento Station, inaugurated in 1916, is renowned for its stunning Azulejo tiles. Illustration of the story of Portugal in 20,000 blue and white tiles. The architectural marvel railway station looks like a living museum. In addition the travellers in Northern Portugal, São Bento is celebrated as a cultural treasure all over the world, where history, art and travel originally exist.
20. Liege Guillemins Station, Belgium
Architect Santiago Calatrava designed the ornate train station. Liege Guillemins Station opened in 2009 and is a striking example of futuristic design. Its vast glass and steel canopy curves dramatically, flooding the space with light. Serving as a central high-speed rail hub in Belgium, it blends innovation with aesthetics, making it an architectural icon which is a central gateway for European travellers.
21. Gare de Lyon, Paris, France
Gare de Lyon, opened in 1900 for the Paris Exhibition, is one of Paris' busiest and most beautiful railway stations. Its standout feature is the tall clock tower, which resembles London's Big Ben. Inside the ornate restaurant Le Train Bleu, elegance is added, serving high-speed trains to the south of France and beyond, both historically and functionally.
22. Union Station, Los Angeles, USA
Union Station, one of the world's iconic railway stations, opened in 1939 and is the largest railroad passenger terminal in the western United States. A mix of Spanish Colonial, Art Deco and Mission Revival styles. It radiates California charm. Known as the last of the great train stations. It remains a bustling hub and cultural icon, hosting films, events and daily commuters alike.
23. São Paulo Estação da Luz, Brazil
Estação da Luz, inaugurated in 1901, is one of São Paulo's most iconic railway stations worldwide. Built with materials imported from England, its design reflects Victorian styles with a striking clock tower. Beyond being a central commuter hub, it houses the Museum of the Portuguese Language, making it both a functional transport centre and a cultural institution.
24. Amsterdam Central, Netherlands
Amsterdam Central, one of the historic railway stations, opened in 1889, is a Neo-Renaissance marvel designed by Pierre Cuypers, the architect of the Rijksmuseum. Its ornate red brick façade, towers and detailed interiors make it a landmark. Serving as the heart of Dutch rail travel, it connects local, national, and international routes. This is combining historic beauty with modern convenience for millions of travellers yearly.
25. Tokyo Station, Japan
Tokyo Station, a famous railway station completed in 1914, is an architectural gem featuring red brick inspired by European Renaissance design. The elegant front is in contrast to the future horizon that surrounds it. Like the busiest station in Japan, it connects Shinkansen Bullet trains across the country. Tokyo Station is a picturesque train station that seamlessly blends history and modernity, serving as both a cultural symbol and a vital transportation hub.
26. Zurich Hauptbahnhof, Switzerland
Zurich Hauptbahnhof opened in 1871 and is Switzerland's largest and scenic railway station. Its Neo-Renaissance façade, grand halls, and cultural spaces make it a striking building. Hosting exhibitions and festivals is more than transit; it's a gathering place. With local, national, and international connections, Zurich HB is one of the busiest stations in Europe, symbolising Swiss efficiency while preserving historic architectural charm.
27. Flinders Street Station, Melbourne, Australia
Flinders Street Station is considered the world's most beautiful train station, having been completed in 1910, and is Melbourne's most iconic landmark. Its distinctive yellow façade and green dome dominate the city skyline. This station's distinctive yellow façade and clock above the main entrance serve as a meeting point for locals and travellers alike. Beyond its heritage, this remains a bustling hub connecting suburban lines and symbolising Melbourne's vivacious identity.
28. Napoli Afragola Station, Italy
Napoli Afragola station, one of the most impressive architectural train stations. This futuristic marvel in Southern Italy was designed by the renowned architect Zaha Hadid and inaugurated in 2017. Its flow, organic structure and smooth steel-end-glass designs create a striking view effect. Serving high-speed trains on the Naples–Bari line, it enhances connectivity across Italy while emphasising speed, modernity, and efficiency. Beyond functionality, the most stunning train station symbolises innovation in Italian railway architecture, blending aesthetics and engineering to create one of Europe’s most impressive contemporary transport hubs.
29. Maputo Railway Station, Mozambique
Portuguese colonial architecture at Maputo Railway Station is beautifully exemplified by the marvels of the railway station. Inaugurated in 1910, it develops a sense of history and elegance, with its beautiful boundary, curved windows and decorative tiles. Once a central node of the Colonial Railway Networks, it remains an important transport hub connecting Mozambique with neighbouring countries. Beyond its practical use, the famous railway station is regarded as a cultural and architectural landmark, reflecting the city's rich heritage.
30. Sirkeci Station, Istanbul, Turkey
Sirkeci Station, opened in 1890, is Istanbul's historic railway terminal and the legendary eastern end of the famous Orient Express, serving as the Eastern Evading Point. The new classic front, with curved windows and elegant details, reflects the late Ottoman architectural style. It is strategically located near the olden Horn, and was once associated with Istanbul and Europe. Today, while modern transportation has evolved, Sirkeci Station, one of the most stunning train stations, remains a cultural and architectural landmark revered for its history, attractions, and its role in linking East and West through the iconic railway journey.
Final Getaway at the Most Beautiful Railway Stations In The World
From the historical grandeur of Europe's classic terminals to the elegance of modern marvels, these 30 beautiful railway stations showcase the perfect blend of architecture, culture, and travel. Each station tells a unique story, reflecting the legacy of its city and serving as a hub for millions of travellers. In addition to their functionality, they evoke the fear of complex designs, wonderful ancestors, and artistic details that make each trip memorable. Touring these historic railway stations is not just about travel. It is really at the gateways where movement meets greatness.