Some journeys really are about the destinations, especially when travelling by train. It can start from the minute you jump on, or the excitement of pulling into a mesmerising stop – a luxurious station can transform your holiday experience.
If you’re looking for captivating historic architecture or fine dining whilst travelling, you can find these and more in some of the world’s most premium train stations.
Thankfully, All Clear Travel Insurance has compiled a list of the world’s best offerings to “uncover which of the world’s train stations offer the most premium experiences of all”, analysing everywhere from Japan and its beloved shinkansen (bullet trains) through to Europe and the US.
The company, known for travel insurance, analysed 40 stations worldwide and finalised its list based on several key factors. These were each station’s access to premium waiting lounges, their distance to fine dining options, their access to shops, their existing visitor ratings and how close they were to 4 and 5-star hotels.
Grand Central terminal, USAGetty Images
Here are the top 10 at a glance:
- Zürich Hauptbahnhof, Switzerland
- Osaka Station, Japan
- Kyoto Station, Japan
- Tokyo Station, Japan
- Toronto Union Station, Canada
- Stazione di Santa Maria Novella, Italy
- Amsterdam Centraal, Netherlands
- Grand Central Terminal, USA
- Paddington Station, England
- Roma Termini, Italy
Zürich Hauptbahnhof train station got the top spot thanks to its premier passenger lounges, access to retail and positive reviews from visitors. Located in Switzerland’s biggest city, the station is famed for delivering a high-end traveller experience. If you’re looking for comfort and ease on your journey, consider a trip to or from here.
Second on the list, JR Osaka Station stood out to the company for its impressive nearby retail offerings and its proximity to great food. If you’re hoping to have an amazing meal before you leave or soon after you arrive, the city’s famous food culture can be sampled immediately. You can try yakiniku (Japanese BBQ), Kobe, wagyu beef or even eat at Michelin-starred La Baie just a 10-minute walk away. This really goes beyond your average train station meal deal.
Zürich Hauptbahnhof, SwitzerlandGetty Images
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