From Dubai To New York, 10 Most Beautiful Metro Stations In The World

People have a preconceived notion that subway stations are uninviting, dark, and even dangerous places to be alone. Those who conceive of metro stations in this manner have never been to any of these stunning stations. From the biggest art museum on Earth to an underground station that has been off limits to the public for years to a station with gold-plated walls, there is something for everyone here. Here are the most beautiful metro stations in the world. 

Most Beautiful Metro Stations In The World

1. New York City, City Hall station 

To get inside the city hall station, tourists must first tour the New York Transit Museum. Due to capacity constraints, this station only existed for forty years, from 1904 to 1945, serving primarily as a ceremonial terminus for local government dignitaries. Arches with Guastavino tiles, beautiful skylights, and some of the city’s most impressive underground architecture greet tourists. 

If you want to see this incredible piece of history but do not want to take a tour, stay on the 6 train after it makes its final stop at the Brooklyn Bridge. During the train’s return loop, passengers might get a view of this historic stop, which makes it one of the most beautiful metro stations in the world.  

2. BurJuman Station, Dubai 

For a short respite from the heat in a city where the average August temperature is higher than 100 degrees, this metro station would be a good choice. This station’s theme is water, a nod to Dubai’s long history of pearl diving and fishing. 

Fibre optic chandeliers swing from the ceilings, like stunning jellyfish, and the tiled flooring in dazzling blues and gold is complemented by the blue mood lighting above. This beautiful metro station is stretched out across three stories, and like the rest of the city, it exudes a sense of opulence and sophistication. 

3. T-Centralen Station, Stockholm 

Most of the stations in Stockholm’s subway system are modelled like art galleries or museums, making it one of the world’s biggest public art galleries. Many people have missed their trains because they are so breathtaking. It includes both permanent and temporary displays from over 140 artists throughout 90 of the stations. The T-Centralen station, where the three subway lines connect, is the centrepiece of this system. 

The area enclosed by the blue line has had painted walls and ceilings since 1970. The rustic arches and columns, embellished with mosaics, continue to add beauty to the area. No matter where you go in this city, there is nothing but beauty and awe in store for you. Spend the day on the subway and uncover a new world of art. 

4. Arts et Metiers Station, Paris

The true attraction for tourists visiting one of these stunning metro stations across the globe is what lies beneath these enormous public buildings. Entering this station feels like you have entered a time machine. The scene is set with large gears hanging from the ceiling and walls made of riveted copper. The portholes on the walls are decorated with picture boxes that depict nineteenth-century navigation. Copper and silver accent chairs contrast nicely with the walls, and the trash cans blend in nicely with the overall design. 

5. Toledo Metro Station, Naples

Toledo Metro Station, located on the iconic Via Toledo in Naples’ Spanish quarter, is a breathtaking blend of art and functionality. Opened in 2012, it is part of the Naples Metro’s “Art Stations” initiative, designed to transform public transit into a cultural experience. The station features a stunning ceiling mosaic in a psychedelic swirl of violet-blue, which bathes the underground space in a surreal, otherworldly light. This artistic masterpiece, created by Spanish artist Óscar Tusquets Blanca, captures the essence of the sea and sky, creating an immersive environment that feels like an underwater voyage. 

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6. Komsomolskaya Station, Moscow

Komsomolskaya Station in Moscow is a majestic tribute to Russia’s rich history and architectural grandeur. Opened in 1952, this station is a pinnacle of the late Stalinist style, adorned with ornate chandeliers, marble columns, and elaborate mosaics. Designed by Alexey Shchusev, the station’s opulence is inspired by Stalin’s 1941 speech, which called upon the Russian people to draw strength from their historical heroics. The ceiling mosaics, created by Pavel Korin, depict various scenes from Russian history, emphasising the nation’s enduring spirit and struggle for freedom. 

7. Formosa Boulevard Station, Kaohsiung, Taiwan

Formosa Boulevard Station in Kaohsiung is a stunning example of how art can transform a public space into a cultural landmark. The station is renowned for its “Dome of Light,” the largest glass artwork in the world, designed by Italian artist Narcissus Quagliata. This awe-inspiring installation, composed of 4,500 glass panels, covers an area of 2,180 square metres. It depicts themes of life, spirituality, and cosmic unity. The vibrant colours and intricate designs create a mesmerising atmosphere. It has also turned the station into a popular venue for weddings and public gatherings. 

8. Avtovo Station, Saint Petersburg

Avtovo Station in Saint Petersburg is a masterpiece of Soviet-era architecture, combining neoclassical design with luxurious detailing. Opened in 1955, the station features columns faced with ornamental glass, originally intended to be a temporary substitute for marble. Now, it is a defining characteristic of the space. The walls are lined with white marble, and a poignant mosaic at the end of the platform commemorates the Leningrad Blockade during World War II. Designed by Yevgenii Levinson, Avtovo is a shallow-level station constructed using the cut-and-cover method. It is certainly rare among the city’s metro stations. 

9. Bund Sightseeing Tunnel, Shanghai

The Bund Sightseeing Tunnel in Shanghai offers a unique and futuristic transit experience beneath the Huangpu River. This 646.7-metre tunnel connects the historic Bund area with the modern Lujiazui financial district. It certainly provides a memorable journey through a tunnel illuminated with dazzling multimedia effects. Passengers travel in transparent, unmanned compartments that offer a 360-degree view of the vibrant light show. It is also paired with sound effects that enhance the surreal atmosphere. 

10. São Bento Railway & Metro Station, Porto, Portugal

São Bento Railway Station in Porto is a historical gem, renowned for its stunning azulejo tile murals. Opened in 1916, the station’s walls are adorned with around 20,000 blue and white tiles. They depict scenes from Portugal’s history and everyday rural life. Designed by architect José Marques da Silva, the building itself is a testament to early 20th-century Portuguese architecture. It also blends functionality with beauty. The murals, created by Jorge Colaço, cover 551 square metres. They certainly tell stories of the country’s past, from battles to traditions. 

Each of these most beautiful metro stations turns the mundane act of travelling into a great journey.

Cover Image Courtesy: Canva

Inputs from Ishita Agarwal and Mallika Khurana