Five European Metro Stations More Unique Than London’s

By Yvonne

The London Underground began operating in 1863, making it the oldest subway system in the world; meanwhile, nestled within the majestic and beautiful Westminster lies one of Europe’s most futuristic metro stations. By the mid-1920s, other European cities such as Paris, Madrid, Berlin, and Milan had also developed their own underground rail networks—ones that were not only cleaner and equipped with electric trains but often surpassed London’s in aesthetic design.

Below is a list compiled based onCNNof the top five best metro stations in Europe. Some of them weren’t even built until 150 years after the birth of the London Underground system—let’s take a look at these beloved and beautiful modes of transportation.

1. Toledo, Naples, Italy

Toledo Station (Photo / frombenrousseau.com)

Opened in 2012, Toledo Metro Station is located 50 meters underground and is one of the deepest in Naples. Its design theme revolves around water and light. This stunning station is also part of the art stations of the Naples subway.

2. Westfriedhof, Munich, Germany

Westfriedhof Station (Photo / from Wikipedia)

Officially opened in 1998 and renovated in 2001, the Westfriedhof subway platform has been bathed in the glow of 11 massive, dome-shaped lights in blue, yellow, and red.

3. Komsomolskaya (Koltsevaya Line), Moscow

Komsomolskaya Station (Photo / from Wikipedia)

Komsomolskaya Metro Station features Baroque-style decor, along with historic mosaic patterns and a ceiling adorned with hanging chandeliers, giving the station the appearance of a grand ballroom.

Opened in 1952 to relieve congestion at Moscow’s busiest transit hub, it’s interesting to note that an unnamed wartime speech by Soviet leader Stalin during WWII inspired the rich mosaic decorations surrounding the station today.

4. Olaias, Lisbon, Portugal

Olaias Station (Photo / from Wikipedia)

In 1998, Lisbon hosted a World Expo to celebrate 500 years of Portuguese discovery.

Originally built to facilitate the transport of up to 11 million Expo visitors, the station is known for its vivid and quirky color scheme, now recognized as one of the most iconic examples of modern art in a metro station.

5. T-Centralen, Stockholm, Sweden

T-Centralen Station (Photo / from Wikipedia)

Situated above ground, Stockholm’s Central Station may appear as an ordinary rapid transit hub. But as commuters venture deeper inside, they encounter unexpected bursts of color and form; the blue-and-white, cave-like platform resembles a truly rare and enormous creature.