The Most Beautiful Train Station in the World: A Spectacular Showcase of Architectural Brilliance

Voting rules: Choose the station you think is the most beautiful!

Jun 16, 2023 10:17 (Updated on Dec 2, 2023 16:17)

Step into the magical world of architectural marvels and embark on a mesmerizing journey with StrawPoll's latest ranking extravaganza: "What is the most beautiful train station in the world?" From the grandiose designs of historic European terminals to the awe-inspiring contemporary structures in Asia, we've curated an enchanting list of train stations that truly redefine the meaning of beauty, art, and innovation. But, the power to crown the ultimate winner lies in your hands! Vote for your favorite or suggest a hidden gem that we may have missed, and together, let's celebrate these magnificent monuments to human ingenuity and their ability to transform our daily commutes into unforgettable experiences. So, all aboard the StrawPoll express, and let the journey to discover the world's most picturesque train stations begin!

What Is the Most Beautiful Train Station in the World?

1

65
votes
Fcb981 ; Eric Baetscher (attribution required) · CC BY-SA 3.0

Grand Central Terminal, New York City, USA

With its Beaux-Arts architecture, grand concourse, and iconic clock, Grand Central Terminal is a masterpiece of design and engineering.
Description

Grand Central Terminal, located in New York City, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. It is both a transportation hub and an architectural masterpiece, attracting millions of visitors each year.

Location: New York City, USA

Architectural style: Beaux-Arts

Size: 48 acres

Main concourse ceiling: Painted with a constellation mural by Paul César Helleu

Number of platforms: 44
2

31
votes
Colin · CC BY-SA 3.0

St. Pancras International Station, London, England

Architect William Henry Barlow

Known for its Gothic Revival architecture, St. Pancras International Station is a magnificent example of Victorian design.
Description

St. Pancras International Station in London, England is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. It is a Victorian Gothic masterpiece that combines historical grandeur with modern amenities. The station serves as a major transportation hub, connecting London with various destinations in the UK and Europe.

Year of Construction: 1868

Architectural Style: Victorian Gothic

Length: 393 meters

Train Platforms: 15

Renovation: 2001-2007
3

25
votes
Paul Hermans · CC BY-SA 3.0

Antwerpen-Centraal, Antwerp, Belgium

Louis Delacenserie

Often referred to as the "Railway Cathedral," Antwerpen-Centraal features a stunning blend of Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Neo-Baroque styles.
Description

Antwerpen-Centraal, located in Antwerp, Belgium, is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful train stations in Europe. It is a remarkable architectural masterpiece that seamlessly combines various architectural styles, including the eclectic, Art Nouveau, and modernist influences. The station not only serves as a major transportation hub but also stands as a prominent cultural landmark and historical monument in Antwerp.

Architectural Styles: Eclectic, Art Nouveau, Modernist

Location: Antwerp, Belgium

Year of Construction: 1895-1905

Height: 75 meters (246 feet)

Number of Tracks: 14
Antwerpen-Centraal, Antwerp, Belgium in other rankings
- Position 2 of 10 in Most beautiful train station in Europe
4

18
votes
MaedaAkihiko · CC BY-SA 4.0

Kanazawa Station, Kanazawa, Japan

Kengo Kuma

With its distinctive wooden lattice roof, Kanazawa Station is a beautiful fusion of traditional Japanese and modern design.
Description

Kanazawa Station, located in Kanazawa, Japan, is renowned for its extraordinary blend of modern and traditional architectural elements. It serves as a gateway to the city's rich cultural heritage and natural beauty.

Year of completion: 2005

Architectural style: Modern and traditional Japanese

Materials used: Glass, steel, and wood

Elevated platforms: 2

Number of tracks: 7
5

13
votes
Gryffindor · Public domain

Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Arthur Benison Hubback

Built in 1910, Kuala Lumpur Railway Station is a stunning example of Moorish Revival architecture.
Description

The Kuala Lumpur Railway Station, located in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, is considered one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. It is a remarkable example of Moorish and Mughal architectural styles, reflecting a fusion of eastern and western influences. The station has been a prominent landmark in the city since its construction in 1910.

Architectural Style: Moorish and Mughal

Year of Construction: 1910

Location: Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Materials Used: Bricks and plaster

Features: Dominant arches, decorative towers, Islamic motifs
6

12
votes
Rangan Datta Wiki · CC BY-SA 4.0

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Mumbai, India

Frederick William Stevens

Formerly known as Victoria Terminus, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus is an impressive blend of Victorian Gothic Revival and traditional Indian architecture.
Description

Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, also known as Victoria Terminus, is a historic train station located in Mumbai, India. It is an iconic landmark that blends Victorian Gothic Revival architecture with classical Indian architectural features.

Year of Construction: 1878-1888

Architectural Style: Victorian Gothic Revival

Architectural Features: Pointed arches, turrets, spires, stained glass windows, ornamental ironwork

Heritage Status: UNESCO World Heritage Site

Size: Approximately 3,700 square meters
7

15
votes
SChirapant · CC BY-SA 3.0

Hua Hin Railway Station, Hua Hin, Thailand

Built during the reign of King Rama VI, Hua Hin Railway Station is a charming example of traditional Thai architecture.
Description

The Hua Hin Railway Station in Hua Hin, Thailand, is a charming and picturesque train station that is often regarded as one of the most beautiful in the world. It is known for its unique architectural design and historical significance.

Location: Hua Hin, Thailand

Architecture: Victorian-style wooden structure with Thai influences

Construction Year: 1920

Features: Distinctive red and cream-colored building, intricate wooden fretwork, and a royal waiting room

Historical Significance: The railway station was initially built to serve the royal family of Thailand's summer palace located nearby
8

9
votes
Roxanna Salceda from United States of America · CC BY-SA 2.0

Atocha Station, Madrid, Spain

With its tropical garden and stunning glass roof, Atocha Station is a unique and beautiful transportation hub.
Description

Atocha Station, located in Madrid, Spain, is considered one of the most beautiful train stations in the world. It is a stunning blend of historical architecture and modern elements, creating a unique and aesthetically pleasing atmosphere for travelers.

Construction Year: 1892

Architectural Style: Victorian and Industrial

Main Hall: A grand space featuring a lush tropical garden with palm trees and a large glass roof

Botanical Garden: A vast indoor tropical garden displaying a wide variety of plant species

Exhibition Hall: A dedicated space for art and cultural exhibitions
9

5
votes
Gare du Nord, Paris, France

Jacques Hittorff

A bustling hub of international travel, Gare du Nord is known for its elegant Beaux-Arts architecture and iconic clock tower.
Description

Gare du Nord is a magnificent railway station located in the heart of Paris, France. With its stunning architecture and grandeur, it is considered one of the most beautiful train stations in Europe.

Construction Period: 1861-1864

Architectural Style: Beaux-Arts

Total Platform Count: 36

Longest Platform: 700 meters

Daily Passenger Count: approximately 700,000
Gare du Nord, Paris, France in other rankings
- Position 3 of 10 in Most beautiful train station in Europe
10

6
votes
Antilived · CC BY-SA 3.0

Dunedin Railway Station, Dunedin, New Zealand

George Troup

Built in the Flemish Renaissance style, Dunedin Railway Station is a striking example of late 19th-century architecture.
Description

The Dunedin Railway Station is an exquisite historic train station located in Dunedin, New Zealand. It is widely regarded as one of the most beautiful train stations in the world, known for its magnificent architecture and grandeur.

Architectural style: Flemish Renaissance Revival

Construction period: 1904-1906

Materials used: Oamaru stone, dark basalt, brass, glass

Size: 173.7 meters long, 24 meters wide

Distinctive features: Elaborate decorative facade, a clock tower, intricate tile work

Missing your favorite station?

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Discussion

Ranking factors for beautiful train station

Architectural Design

The style, era, and uniqueness of the architectural design contribute to the overall beauty of the train station. Historic elements, intricate detailing, and innovative designs all add to the visual appeal of the building.
Interior Design and Artwork

The interior design elements, such as murals, sculptures, mosaics, and stained glass windows, can enhance the beauty of the train station. An aesthetically pleasing interior can make waiting for a train a more enjoyable experience for passengers.
Scale and Size

The overall size and scale of the train station can have an impact on its beauty. Large, grand train stations with tall ceilings and extensive platforms can create an awe-inspiring atmosphere.
Natural Surroundings

A train station's location and natural surroundings can greatly impact its beauty. Stations located in scenic settings or featuring lush landscaping and gardens can provide a visually appealing experience for passengers.
Lighting

The way a train station is illuminated, both inside and out, can contribute to its beauty. Thoughtful and artistic lighting design can highlight architectural features, create a warm ambiance, and provide a sense of safety and security for travelers.
Historical Significance

Train stations with a rich historical background or those that have played a significant role in the development of rail travel can be considered more beautiful due to their historical importance.
Cultural Relevance

A train station's connections to local customs, traditions, or regional identity can also contribute to its overall beauty and appeal. Unique design elements that reflect the local culture can create a link between the station and its location.
Integration into the Urban Landscape

How well a train station is integrated into the surrounding urban environment can affect its beauty. A station that blends seamlessly into its surroundings or helps to revitalize a neighborhood can be considered more appealing and beautiful.
Sustainability and Environmental Considerations

Train stations designed with sustainability and environmental concerns in mind can enhance the overall beauty of the structure. This can include eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient systems, and green spaces.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most beautiful train station in the world. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or station is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

1935 views
199 votes
10 ranked items

Movers & Shakers

Grand Central Terminal, New York City, USA
St. Pancras International Station, London, England
Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Mumbai, India
Dunedin Railway Station, Dunedin, New Zealand

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each station once every 24 hours. The rank of each station is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

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More information on most beautiful train station in the world

Train stations are more than just a means of transportation. They can be architectural wonders, cultural landmarks, and tourist attractions. From grandiose buildings with ornate facades to modern structures with sleek designs, the world is full of beautiful train stations that capture the imagination of travelers and visitors alike. The question of what is the most beautiful train station in the world is a matter of personal preference, but there are certainly some stations that stand out for their aesthetic appeal, historical significance, or unique features. Explore our list of the most beautiful train stations in the world and discover the art, culture, and history that they represent.