Trains are integral to commuters and vacationers worldwide, letting you zoom to your next destination without taking a flight. While they fulfill transportation needs, modern railcars take you to entertainment hubs with restaurants, bars and shops. Here are five famous rail stations embodying transit-oriented development (TOD) and contemporary urban planning principles. 

1. Hong Kong Station

Hong Kong’s density makes TOD easier, with many Mass Transit Railway (MTR) stations offering amenities. Travel across Victoria Harbour to Hong Kong Station, one of Southeast Asia’s most famous train stations with ferry and bus terminals. The shops inside make it a vacation destination by itself. 

Step inside Hong Kong Station to see your favorite shops, such as Sephora, Chanel and Estée Lauder. Food is plentiful in this terminal, with quick pastries, sushi, pizza, McDonald’s and desserts available. Hong Kong Station is also convenient for dry cleaning, shoe repair, finances and other crucial services. 

2. Rajiv Chowk Metro Station

India is catching up to the world’s famous high-speed rail systems and TOD-inspired train stations. The subcontinent is populous and dense, so an extensive system is necessary to fulfill everyone’s needs. Heavy foot traffic in the terminals opens the door to businesses inside the stations. 

Rajiv Chowk Metro Station is in the heart of New Delhi and is one of South Asia’s premier transit hubs. This terminal features shops and office buildings for companies to rent. Additionally, you’ll find great places to indulge in vegan cuisine and enjoy New Delhi’s best food. 

3. St. Pancras Railway Station

If you ask London residents their favorite train station, some may say Waterloo. However, others say St. Pancras Railway Station because of its interior and exterior beauty. As you approach the station, you’ll notice its excellent Victorian architecture. The interior displays what modern famous train stations look like. 

Despite risking demolition in the 20th century, the station stands as an excellent place to grab a coffee, pastries, a cocktail or quick lunches at its restaurants. St. Pancras’ location makes commuting more accessible for locals and international commuters. For example, travel nurses can leverage their flexibility by traveling to Paris or Amsterdam from the terminal. 

4. Grand Central Terminal

Grand Central Terminal is one of America’s most famous and prestigious train stations because of its grand architecture. The midtown Manhattan facility demonstrates what the U.S. can accomplish with TOD. 

Grand Central Terminal offers various offices, shops and restaurants. If you don’t have time to sit down, grab a quick bagel and coffee like a New Yorker. Experts say coffee can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, so grab a hot cup en route to historic New York sights. Use this station to get to Yankees Stadium, Barclays Center and other must-see destinations. 

5. La Défense Station

Across the English Channel, you’ll find a nation with terrific train stations. While Paris steals the spotlight, one of France’s best TOD examples is in nearby Puteaux. La Défense is a short train ride from Paris and a must-see stop on your European vacation. Stop by to see the Grande Arche and towering skyscrapers. 

La Défense Station’s development has made it a sight on its own, embodying the business orientation of the Parisian suburb. This terminal contains 16 food and catering shops, 17 fashion stores and 14 beauty and decoration businesses on your stop. 

Visiting Train Stations Famous for TOD Concepts

Train stations are no longer simply a stop on your route. While some transit hubs are old, renovations have made them must-see destinations. 

Nowadays, these transportation facilities have restaurants, cafes, bars, offices and other businesses. These five train stations have become famous for embodying transit-oriented development.