The Most Stunning Subway Stations in the World

In many cities of the world, choosing subway stations as a commute might be a dim and dull experience. Dim lights, low energy, and dirty seats of subway stations probably make it an unpleasant experience for most people. But in some cities, subway stations touch the soul of travelers. For them, it's not just a medium of commute rather an experience enchanted by modern and historic designs. Offering exhibitions of art to the bustling crowds heading to work, these subway stations play a huge role in freshening up the spirits of people tired from life or work. 

Here Are 10 Stunning Subway Stations in the World That Are the Ultimate Masterpiece and Extraordinary Experience for Travelers:

1. Toledo Station, Italy

Naples, Italy has one of the most beautiful subway stations in the world called Toledo Station. Crafted with thousand lush mosaics in the range of blue, it's like walking right into the ocean, a mystical experience to the travelers. The station was inaugurated in 2012, designed by Spanish architect Óscar Tusquets Blanca. Overall Toledo station is most beautiful however the ceiling above escalators filled with mosaics titles, sunlight passing through them like a wave of ocean has a different aura.  

2. T-Centralen Station, Sweden

T-Centralen Station of Stockholm metro is known as the world's largest art gallery. The busiest subway station of the city offers calms and stillness to the visitors through the blue vines on white painted walls. The artists have poured a great deal of effort in those painted walls to remind busy commuters that peace is within.

3. Kirovsky Zavod Station, Russia

Entering the Kirovsky Zavod station is like entering a silent, stone hall. Under the soft glow of chandeliers, tall marble columns stand in perfect symmetry, their surfaces gleaming. Despite not being a royal palace, it is a silent testament to the industrial core of the city and exudes the same sense of pride and order.

4. St. Quirin Platz Station, Germany

A modern station made with glass and steel ceilings in the heart of Germany, Munich. The sunlight through the glass roof fills the subway station with pleasant bright light. The ambience feels wide open even ist underground. While on cloudy days, the station gives off dark glowing and strangely uplighting vibes, commuters might feel as if it's a movie rather than real life. The trains pass a reflection of colourful waves on the curved walls.  

5. City Hall Station, USA

City hall station is New York’s first subway showpiece constructed in 1904. A century-old subway abandoned since 1945 is hidden under the bustling streets of New York City. Subway in a tunnel, beautifully designed with tiles and glass adds elegance. While the subway station has not been used for 80 years but it is often used as film sets.

6. Komsomolskaya Station, Russia

Komsomolskaya station, located in the capital of Russia, Moscow reflects the cultural richness. Walking into the Komsomolskaya Station feels like entering a royal palace’s golden ballroom. Golden chandeliers, deep yellow ceilings, polished marble, perfect for a royal dance ball. But the music that plays is not of violins or harps, but the echoing roars of trains passing through the station. For commuters, it’s a brief visit to a royal palace beneath the city.

7. Zoloti Vorota Station, Ukraine

Zoloti Vorota meaning, “golden gate”, this subway station of Ukraine depicts the Byzantine Chapel. It beautifully links the ancient architecture to the modern era at the same time. Chandeliers with candle like lights, mosaics and marbles covering the entire station adds grace. Commutes might feel like a sacred passage and less subway stop due to its art and design.

8. Olaias Station, Portugal

Lisbon’s Olaias Stations feels more like a geometric colorful carnival rather than a dark subway station. The ceilings are designed with multiple colors in different geometric designs. Sunlight passing through the colorful glass ceiling gives off kaleidoscopic vibes. The station adds vibrant joy to the commuter’s life. 

9. Steel Plaza Station — Pittsburgh, USA

Few people might expect beauty in Pittsburgh’s subway system but Steel Plaza is a subway station that surprises every visitor/commuter. The station is mix of industrial and modern touch. Though subtle, it effectively and subtly conveys its message.

10. Champ-de-Mars Station, Canada

Champ-de-Mars is a station located in Montreal, Canada. Artist Marcelle Ferron created stunning stained glass windows for it. Several of the pieces in this station are also regarded as some of the most well-known pieces created by the artist. 

Conclusion

These subway stations around the world remind us that beauty and stillness matter even at the time of utmost rush. A deep breath, a moment of appreciation and emotions sprouting out of the human soul through the art of these stations is an extraordinary experience. No doubt, architecture can lift the human spirit regardless of depth it is constructed in.