In pics: World’s 7 most beautiful metro stations

Metro stations are typically seen as utilitarian structures, designed for function over form. However, several cities around the world have transformed their underground transit hubs into breathtaking works of art, combining architectural brilliance with cultural expression. Here are seven of the most beautiful metro stations in the world that are worth visiting even if you don't need to catch a train!

Naples' Toledo Metro Station is often regarded as one of the most stunning in the world. The station's main attraction is its dazzling blue mosaic, which is a sight to behold. The station is meant to evoke the feeling of being underwater, with blue and turquoise tiles covering the walls and ceilings, mimicking the depths of the sea. The light installation adds to this effect, making the station a true subterranean masterpiece.

Moscow's metro system is famous for its opulent and ornate stations, and Komsomolskaya is a prime example. Opened in 1952, the station was designed in the grand style of Stalinist architecture. Its high ceilings, large chandeliers, and marble columns are reminiscent of a palace. The mosaics and reliefs that adorn the station depict Russian historical events and figures, offering passengers a glimpse into the country's rich cultural heritage.

Inspired by the works of Jules Verne, the Arts et Métiers station in Paris is a steampunk dream. Designed by Belgian comic artist François Schuiten, the station’s copper-clad walls, portholes, and large gears transport passengers into a submarine-like setting. This unique design makes the station look like a scene from Verne's ‘20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, providing an imaginative and immersive experience for commuters.

Stockholm’s T-Centralen is the main hub of the city's metro system, and its blue line platform is a striking example of how art can transform public spaces. Created by artist Per Olof Ultvedt, the station features blue and white motifs painted directly onto the bedrock. The intricate designs of flowers, vines, and workers create a calm and serene atmosphere, contrasting beautifully with the raw stone of the tunnel walls.

Formosa Boulevard Station is home to the ‘Dome of Light,’ the world's largest glass work. Created by Italian artist Narcissus Quagliata, the dome spans 30 meters in diameter and covers an area of 2,180 square meters. It comprises 4,500 glass panels and tells the story of human life in four themes: water, earth, light, and fire. The vivid colors and intricate details make it a popular spot for photography and a mesmerizing sight for daily commuters.

Another gem from Russia, Saint Petersburg’s Avtovo Station, is renowned for its elegant design. The station's marble columns are adorned with glass inlays, creating a luxurious and grand ambiance. The chandeliers and mosaics depicting the Siege of Leningrad add historical significance and artistic value, making Avtovo not just a transit point but a tribute to Russian resilience and artistry.

While not a traditional metro station, the Bund Sightseeing Tunnel in Shanghai is an underground transit experience like no other. This tunnel, which connects the Bund and Pudong, features a light show that creates a surreal and psychedelic journey. The walls are lined with LED lights and mirrors, and special effects simulate various natural phenomena, making the ride an attraction in itself rather than just a means of transportation.