Leningradsky Railway Station in Moscow: Architecture and Location on Komsomolskaya Square

• The station is on Komsomolskaya Square, northeast of central Moscow.
• Together with Yaroslavsky and Kazansky stations, it forms a well-known railway station complex.
• The station was built in the 19th century for the route to Saint Petersburg.
• The historic facade is attributed to Konstantin Thon.
• The station, metro, and surrounding squares are large and can be confusing to navigate.
• Always include current departures, access arrangements, and security requirements in your last-minute travel plans.

The route between Moscow and Saint Petersburg was highly important to the Russian Empire. Leningradsky Railway Station was built in the 19th century as the Moscow counterpart to Moskovsky Railway Station in Saint Petersburg. The names have changed over the course of history, but the connection between the two metropolises has remained central. The building is worth a look even if you are not planning to take a train: the square brings together different eras of Russian transport architecture in a compact area.

For more on the surrounding area, see our pages on Moscow, Yaroslavsky Railway Station, and Kazansky Railway Station. If you would like to compare the other city, find background information on Saint Petersburg. Our information on train travel and railway stations can also help you place the station within a wider itinerary.

Whether you are stopping to take photos or changing trains, allow more time than the map might suggest. The three stations are close to one another, but their entrances, underpasses, and metro access points are spread across a large, busy area. The best preparation is to save a map, note the exact station name, and allow plenty of extra time. Platforms and access points can change; a historical description is no substitute for current information displayed at the station.

Useful resources include a travel checklist with time to spare, information on local transport and transfers, and offline maps. For current train travel information, consult Russian Railways.

The facade is best viewed from a little distance across the square. If you are taking photos, be mindful of pedestrians, traffic, and local rules. Inside the building, its role as a transport hub takes priority. It therefore makes sense to set aside separate time for sightseeing and travel arrangements: first see the square and the exterior, then head to your entrance with enough time to spare.

If you are arriving at or departing from Leningradsky Railway Station, avoid combining baggage drop-off and finding the right entrance with an extended sightseeing walk. For a relaxed look at the facade, set aside time before your onward journey or take a separate stroll around the square. If you are staying nearby overnight, it is worth checking the exact metro station and route to the railway station the day before. This reduces stress, especially if you do not speak Russian or are traveling with children.

A screenshot of your route, the correct station name, and extra time for baggage checks can make getting to the station much less stressful. Arriving early gives you time to find your way without rushing.

Why is it called Three Stations Square?

Leningradsky, Yaroslavsky, and Kazansky railway stations are located side by side on Komsomolskaya Square.

Do trains to Saint Petersburg depart from here?

The station has a historic connection to this route. Check current timetables for specific services and departure times.

Is the station easy to find when changing trains?

It is centrally located, but the area is large. A saved map and some extra time make getting between the metro, the square, and the station much easier.

Is the area worth visiting if you are not taking a train?

Yes. The historic facade and the complex of three railway stations are worth seeing for anyone interested in architecture or cities.