Dateline Discovery

Take a look around the Russian capital’s subway, which may be the most beautiful public transportation system in the world.

With its marble walls, stained glass panels and ornate chandeliers, one could easily confuse Novoslobodskaya with some kind of 19th-century palace.

It’s only when the box-shaped, freight-style locomotives rumble by that it becomes clear it’s a subterranean train station.

The Moscow Metro opened in 1935 with just 13 stations but has grown to encompass a system of more than 220 stops and 14 lines (and growing). Although all are significantly different, a pattern of elaborate tiling, intricate mosaics and stunning artistry flourishes among each of them, with all designed as a tribute to Russia’s diverse history.

Nearly 7 million rides are taken each day through the system, with many people solely focused on racing to their destinations. Don’t just step off the train, though — spend some time in each station and take a step back in time.

(Click images for description.)

Want to go? Tickets on the Moscow Metro cost between 60 and 75 rubles per ride, and less if loaded onto a reloadable Troika smart card. Rides are not metered, meaning each entry costs the same regardless of where one exits. This circuit took two hours to complete.

(Note: This account describes a trip taken in March 2019. Since then, travel to Russia has changed considerably, and visas, flights, payments, the practical realities and the broader situation are nothing like what they were when I visited. Please check your government’s travel guidance before making any plans.)

Disclaimers: All products, services and experiences were paid for and arranged by the author and the vendors named herein had no editorial oversight of this piece. All photographs were taken by and remain the property of the author. Contact for republication rights.