Think about the incredible impact trains have had on our world – they helped countries grow, industries flourish, and so much more. While planes and cars might be more common now, there’s something enchanting about train travel. And of course, you can’t have a train journey without a train station.
Interestingly, some of the most breathtaking train stations are the ones that have been left behind – there’s a captivating beauty to their abandonment. Who would’ve guessed that neglect could make something so visually striking? Memories play a big part too. Abandoned architecture has become quite the photogenic trend, and these stations are right at the heart of it.
1. Canfranc International Railway Station, Spain
High up in the Spanish Pyrenees lies the echoes of Canfranc International Railway Station. This grand station opened back in 1928, a symbol of Spanish pride and determination. They wanted to show the French what they could do, and this station was the result. But it seemed like bad luck followed it, from fires to smuggling, until it faded away in 1970. Nowadays, it’s a hotspot for travelers. More people visited between 2013 and 2017 than during its active years. Plans are even in motion to turn it into a hotel, so you can experience its beauty overnight.
2.City Hall Subway, New York
You might bump into the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles here – the abandoned City Hall Subway in New York inspired their famous headquarters. Is a station really abandoned if it’s a popular attraction with tours and an iconic chandelier? Maybe, maybe not. Trains haven’t run through New York’s City Hall Subway since 1946. It could be one of the most beautiful deserted stations anywhere.
3.Vyšehrad, Prague
Prague is known for its gorgeous architecture, but sometimes the hidden gems are overlooked. Vyšehrad’s abandoned train station is one of these. You can easily imagine how stunning it was before time took its toll. The last train left in 2002, and since then, it’s been somewhat neglected. But lately, interest in abandoned places has given Vyšehrad a bit of attention.
4.Lagos Old Railway Station, Portugal
Don’t think of the Algarve as just a tourist hotspot. There’s plenty of history and culture here, and the old railway station in Lagos offers a glimpse into the past. The lattice facade and mosaic tiles are a tribute to old techniques and the magic of colors. There might be a shiny new station nearby, but the old one still attracts visitors.
5.Jersey City Terminal, USA
Private cars marked the end of Jersey City rail in 1967. But a Richardsonian Romanesque redbrick beauty like this doesn’t just fade away. The terminal building has become a popular spot for movies, romantic outings, and more. This nineteenth-century structure stands out in Liberty State Park.
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6.Gudauta Station, Abkhazia
Abkhazia has seen its share of turmoil, but lovers of abandoned stations have been coming here for years to admire Gudauta Station. It’s not hard to find, nestled in a charming Black Sea town. The grand exterior is just the beginning. Inside, the main hall is a stunner, despite the marks of time.
7.Psyrtskha Station, Abkhazia
Sticking with Abkhazia, Psyrtskha Station is a sight to behold. Found in a town called Akhali Atoni, it might be small, but it’s got Soviet charm. Trains still enter the tunnel nearby, but Psyrtskha Station hasn’t seen a locomotive stop in a long while.
8.Michigan Central Station, USA
An architectural marvel, Michigan Central Station stopped operations in 1988. But it remains a stunning structure in Detroit, making appearances in movies and music videos. The main waiting room was designed like an ancient Roman bathhouse, and the platforms had unique touches. Ford acquired it in 2018 and has plans to bring it back to life.
9.Garub Station, Namibia
It’s hard to believe that trains once crossed the desert wilderness of Garub – but they did. The striking red water tanks make it a photogenic spot, even if getting there can be a bit of a journey. Look out for the feral horses that roam the area too.
10.Anhalter Bahnhof, Berlin
Anhalter Bahnhof in Berlin served for a century before closing during the Cold War. A lot of the station was destroyed, but a part of the facade survived, a reminder of the architectural changes driven by ideology in the twentieth century.
