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The best checked luggage of 2024, tested by editors.

A checked bag is just as essential as a good carry-on.

The Best Checked Luggage

Leilani Osmundson | U.S. News

Every traveler can use a solid piece of checked luggage that can fit enough clothing, accessories and shoes for a long trip. Durability, plenty of storage and wheels that can handle rolling a full bag easily are just a few things to look for in a reputable piece of luggage.

If it's time to purchase a checked bag that can accommodate your belongings and handle the rigor of being tossed around, read on to discover your best options. All of our recommendations have top ratings and have also been personally tested and reviewed.

Best Overall: DELSEY PARIS Sky Max 2.0 Large Expandable Spinner

• Jump to features and expert insights ↓

Best Hard-sided: Samsonite Freeform Large Spinner

Best soft-sided: travelpro crew classic large check-in expandable spinner, best medium: away the medium, best large: lojel cubo large, best trunk: july checked trunk, best lightweight: lipault plume very long trip, best organization: solgaard check-in closet original – medium.

(Note: Prices and stock availability were accurate at the time this article was updated; they may fluctuate due to demand or other factors.)

Erin Evans | U.S. News

Price: $209.99 or less

Dimensions: 31 x 20 x 13.25 inches | Weight: 8.25 pounds Packing capacity: 14-21 days; 117 liters | Colors: Black, green or blue Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 3-year limited

The soft-sided DELSEY PARIS Sky Max 2.0 Large Expandable Spinner is our top overall pick for the Best Checked Luggage thanks to its durability and excellent handling. This piece of checked luggage features double-spinner wheels; a collapsible handle for use on two or four wheels; a TSA-approved lock; and cushioned top, bottom and side handles. The bag has one large interior compartment with tie-down straps to keep everything in place and a medium zippered side pocket, plus a large zippered mesh pocket on the inside of the top of the bag, perfect for holding toiletries (or dirty clothes as your trip unfolds).

There are two large front pockets on the exterior of the bag for stashing last-minute or smaller items. The exterior of this checked bag is constructed of a polyester fabric with a twill pattern, and the bag expands quite a bit to fit in any additional souvenirs you may want to bring home with you.

What our editors say:

I am obsessed with this soft-sided checked bag – it fits an absurd amount of stuff. You can easily pack enough clothes, shoes, accessories and gear for a two- to three-week trip, and even when it's filled to the brim, the wheels and handle make it easy to maneuver the suitcase across many types of terrain. Mine has been checked numerous times, and the darker-colored fabric with its subtle design means any scuffs are pretty impossible to see and it hasn't scratched or dented at all. – Erin Evans, Managing Editor

Catriona Kendall | U.S. News

Price: $279.99 or less

Dimensions: 31.1 x 20.9 x 13.8 inches | Weight: 9.6 pounds Packing capacity: 14-21 days | Colors: Navy, white, gray, black or purple Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 10-year limited

The Samsonite Freeform Large Spinner is a traveler favorite for good reason. This hard-sided polypropylene suitcase is impressively lightweight for its size and made to last. A built-in TSA lock protects your luggage, and it expands by 1.5 inches when you need more room. There are two main packing compartments separated by a zippered panel on one side and compression straps on the other. The double wheels will allow you to navigate any airport or destination with ease. The Freeform also comes in medium and carry-on sizes, as well as a two-piece set.

I used to only use soft-sided luggage, but I've been won over by this suitcase. I love how easy it is to maneuver and lift such a large bag during my travels. You also can't go wrong with the Samsonite Outline Pro Large Spinner , which comes in a few other colors and has a slightly different compression system inside. – Catriona Kendall, Editor

Price: $349.99 or less

Dimensions: 30.75 x 18 x 13.25 inches | Weight: 10.4 pounds Packing capacity: 14-21 days; 130 liters | Colors: Black, gray or blue Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

Like many Travelpro luggage pieces, the Travelpro Crew Classic Large Check-in Expandable Spinner comes with a plethora of handy features. A TSA-approved lock keeps your belongings safe, and the self-aligning wheels make for easy rolling across a range of surfaces. Inside, you'll find a removable fold-out suiter for protecting clothes against wrinkles – so you won't need to bring an extra garment bag for a formal affair. There are also interior pockets (including a water-resistant one) and hold-down straps for keeping your belongings organized and secure.

This Travelpro spinner can hold plenty at 130 liters, but if you need something even bigger, the Travelpro Platinum Elite Large Check-In Spinner is a great alternative with many of the same features and 143.5 liters of space.

I was shocked at how lightweight this suitcase was for its size. The fold-out suiter is a game-changer for business travel or travel that requires formal attire, like a cruise or destination wedding . – Leilani Osmundson, Senior Digital Producer

Amanda Norcross | U.S. News

Price: $365 or less

Dimensions: 26 x 18.5 x 11 inches | Weight: 10.4 pounds Packing capacity: 7-14 days; 68 liters | Colors: Several options, including black, sea green, olive or white gloss Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime

The Medium by Away is surprisingly large, with enough storage for about two weeks' worth of clothing. An interior compression panel and mesh pockets help maximize space, and an included laundry bag allows you to easily separate dirty and clean clothing in your suitcase. This checked bag also comes with a color-matched luggage tag. For the inevitable scratches, you can use a magic eraser to wipe the bag clean.

The Medium is so spacious that I can't imagine using a larger checked bag. I also appreciate all of the grab handles that make it easy to load on to the airport scale or pull off the baggage claim belt. – Amanda Norcross, Senior Content & SEO Strategist

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

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Rachael Hood | U.S. News

Price: $430 or less

Dimensions: 30.5 x 21.7 x 13.4 (14.6 when extended) inches | Weight: 11.7 pounds Packing capacity: 14-21 days; 120 liters (130 when extended) | Colors: 9 options, including burgundy, black, yellow or navy Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: 10-year

The flat-top opening on this large suitcase really makes it stand out from the crowd. Given its size, the top opening makes it easy to pack and close the suitcase when you have limited space. Constructed with 50% recycled polycarbonate, this style has a durable and sustainable design. The interior of the expandable suitcase has a lid with two spacious mesh compartments and a third with a privacy panel. For added organization, there's a zip pocket and a compression divider with four zip pockets, which keeps small items organized and helps you compartmentalize your belongings while in transit.

If you're looking for a large checked suitcase that is sturdy, easy to wheel and can hold a lot of contents, this is it. I really like the variety of zip pockets on the interior to keep smaller items easy to find, and the flat-top opening is a real game changer in small hotel rooms or tight spaces. – Rachael Hood, Senior Editor

Price: $545 or less

Dimensions: 28.35 x 16.34 x 14.5 inches | Weight: 13.2 pounds Packing capacity: 10-14 days; 95 liters | Colors: 11 gloss and matte options, including dark green, red or black Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Limited lifetime with 100-day trial

This trunk is constructed with a rivetless anodized aluminum frame and crush-proof German polycarbonate shell. The trunk design has an 80/20 lid opening, and it closes with twin integrated TSA latch locks. On the inside, the bag has stain- and water-resistant nylon lining, a hidden laundry bag and a Y-strap compression system to keep contents secure. For easy maneuvering, it has a multi-height adjustable soft handle, top and side carry handles, and dual-spinner wheels.

From its sleek exterior to its space-maximized interior, this trunk makes packing for a long trip a breeze. The handle is extremely comfortable to pull, and the silent wheels glide effortlessly on an array of surfaces. – Rachael Hood

Price: $329 or less

Dimensions: 31.1 x 18.1 x 12.2 inches | Weight: 8.6 pounds Packing capacity: 10-21 days | Colors: Maroon, navy or khaki green Hard- or soft-sided: Soft-sided | Warranty: 3-year limited

Weighing in at less than 9 pounds, this checked bag doesn't sacrifice quality or features. Its durable nylon construction wipes off easily, so you won't be too troubled by white winter salt marks or spilled coffee. The interior features two fold-down shelves, allowing you to pack it like a trunk or a traditional suitcase. There's also a mesh separation net to keep all of your belongings in place when you open the case, as well as two large interior zippered pockets.

On the front of the bag, you can make use of a spacious front zip pocket, a coordinating luggage tag and a zippered compartment that conceals and protects the telescoping handle when not in use. The spinner wheels glide easily on any surface, and if you want a coordinating carry-on, the Lipault Plume Cabin Size Spinner – U.S. News' top soft-sided luggage pick – can be stowed inside this bag when not in use.

While I try to stick to carry-on luggage, this checked suitcase is extremely impressive and perfect for when I need more space. I absolutely love the shelves that can be folded down flat when I don't want them, but also the ability to pack so I can just use the suitcase like a rolling closet. It's really lightweight, and I love that it coordinates with one of my favorite personal item bags, the Lipault City Plume 24H 2.0 . – Rachael Hood

Sharael Kolberg

Price: $355 or less

Dimensions: 24.8 x 14.5 x 11.8 inches | Weight: 10.7 pounds Packing capacity: 10-15 days; 91 liters | Colors: 13 options, including black, red, purple or precious metals Hard- or soft-sided: Hard-sided | Warranty: Lifetime

If you're the type of person that likes to transfer your clothes from your suitcase to the hotel dresser upon arrival to keep things organized, this Solgaard suitcase is for you. With its built-in shelving system, you don't have to unpack – just pack your clothes into the five shelves and, when you get to the hotel, hang the removable shelving system for easy access. The suitcase is made with a durable polycarbonate shell. It comes with a TSA-approved three-digit lock, and the frictionless wheels paired with its comfortable handle make this checked bag easy to maneuver.

What our contributors say:

Not only does this suitcase make it easier to travel, but I also love that it is designed with sustainability in mind. Each one is made from 100% recycled plastic that is collected in coastal communities, in order to prevent it from going into the ocean. The one downside is that the shelving does take up some room, so you might be trading convenience for maximum capacity. – Sharael Kolberg

How we tested

Taking into account durability, capacity and features, our team tested more than a dozen checked bags from a variety of brands at a range of price points. We tested to see how the overall structure of the bag works for travel needs, along with the maneuverability of the wheels and comfort of the handle on a range of surfaces from moving walkways to cobblestones. After taking these suitcases on a variety of journeys, we've selected these checked suitcases as the best for 2024.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best Luggage Sets
• The Best Luggage Brands
• The Best Carry-on Luggage
• The Best Hard-sided Luggage
• The Best Travel Insurance

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Delsey Sky Max 2.0 Softside Luggage Review – Is It Worth It? [Video]

Amar Hussain

Senior Content Contributor

765 Published Articles

Countries Visited: 63 U.S. States Visited: 9

Keri Stooksbury

Editor-in-Chief

29 Published Articles 3079 Edited Articles

Countries Visited: 45 U.S. States Visited: 28

Delsey Sky Max 2.0 Softside Luggage

Delsey sky max 2.0 softside luggage overall rating, delsey sky max 2.0 softside style and look, delsey sky max 2.0 softside size and exterior features, delsey sky max 2.0 softside internal compartments, delsey sky max 2.0 softside durability and materials, delsey sky max 2.0 softside wheels, delsey sky max 2.0 softside handles, delsey sky max 2.0 softside lock and zippers, warranty and customer service, other delsey sky max 2.0 softside luggage, final thoughts.

We may be compensated when you click on product links, such as credit cards, from one or more of our advertising partners. Terms apply to the offers below. See our Advertising Policy for more about our partners, how we make money, and our rating methodology. Opinions and recommendations are ours alone.

With a legacy spanning over 75 years, Delsey is renowned for designing quality luggage based on the needs and desires of the discerning traveler. This commitment to excellence comes as no surprise from the company that pioneered the first ultrastrong, rigid-shell suitcase. From then on, Delsey has continued to innovate while unwaveringly upholding its high-quality standards.

Delsey offers diverse luggage and accessories that seamlessly blend practical functionality with the quintessential Parisian flair the brand is known and loved for. Perhaps the most iconic range is the Chatelet collection, but there are plenty of options for more understated luggage, such as the range we’re reviewing today — the Delsey Sky Max 2.0.

Delsey’s Sky Max 2.0 luggage has been designed for travelers looking to maximize their packing capability . This lightweight luggage range allows passengers to utilize their airline’s weight allowance for their belongings, not the casing they’re transported in.

Despite its feather-light structure, the Delsey Sky Max 2.0 packs a punch when it comes to durability with a tear-resistant exterior . Despite being priced at the lower end for Delsey, we’re confident this luggage range would withstand frequent travel pretty well.

Delsey Sky Max 2.0 Softside Luggage Review

We reviewed the carry-on version of the Delsey Sky Max 2.0 collection, and this case mostly lived up to our expectations. There’s no doubt that it’s a solid case, but the more minor details and accents were what let down this luggage. Check out our video review above to see for yourself.

Just by looking at this case, you can tell that it is well-crafted. The material is thick and luxurious, and the corner guards are an added bonus for protection. Although it has the look of a traditional softside suitcase, the indented material framing the exterior pockets and the iconic Delsey logo add a touch of class.

This collection is available in 3 beautiful colors and is finished with an elegant twill pattern that is dense and durable.

Despite its slimline appearance, the carry-on has an impressive 36-liter capacity for holding a long weekend’s worth of belongings. Measuring 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9 inches , this case meets the carry-on size requirements for most U.S. domestic and international airlines.

Weighing just 5.5 pounds , the Delsey Sky Max 2.0 carry-on is incredibly lightweight.

There are 3 exterior pockets that provide easy access to your belongings. This includes 2 front pockets for your travel documents, toiletries, or tech . The bottom pocket is larger than the top and could hold a small laptop or tablet. Just be aware that these pockets don’t contain padding to protect your travel tech fully. There’s also a small discreet pocket for your passport, wallet, or purse on the side of the case.

This case can be rolled next to you using all 4 sets of wheels or be pulled behind you like a rollaboard on just 2. When pulling the case, the guard on the bottom will protect the base of the bag from scuffing on the floor.

This case has a spacious main compartment with a top-opening lid that’s easy to access in smaller spaces. Although the interior lining looks the part, the material feels a little cheap. The compression straps can be clipped together to hold your clothes in place.

There are 2 handy pockets in the lid of the case : 1 large pocket that’s great for keeping dress clothes neat and tidy and 1 smaller mesh pocket for toiletries, belts, makeup, etc.

There’s also a zippered pocket in the main compartment for smaller items and a tiny pocket to safely store jewelry, chargers, or other small items.

This softside carry-on is made from polyester and finished with an elegant twill pattern. We were impressed with the material’s durability, and even after using this case several times, it still looks as good as new.

Although the polyester material is water-resistant , plan to use a waterproof suitcase cover should it be exposed to heavy rain for long durations.

The 360-degree spinner wheels aren’t recessed, so this does mean that they are more exposed and susceptible to damage.  We loved how smoothly and quietly the case rolls on all surfaces ; however, the slimline profile and wide wheels meant it didn’t maneuver amazingly well.  

The case has 3 exterior handles for easy carrying that are on the top, side, and bottom. This is particularly useful when lifting the case in and out of the overhead compartment on a plane or grabbing it quickly from the carousel. The top and side handles feel incredibly sturdy but are not the most comfortable handles we’ve come across.

The telescoping handle is adjustable to 3 heights using the button on the handle, so there should be a setting to roughly suit your height. It’s definitely not the smoothest or sturdiest telescopic handle out there, which is a bit disappointing for Delsey.

When not in use, the telescopic handle is stored on the case’s interior, and you can feel the bars beneath the interior lining of the main compartment.

An integrated TSA combination lock on the exterior of the side of the case locks the main compartment. I found the zipper pulls to be at an awkward angle to clip into the lock.

Alternatively, the zipper pulls interlace to use your own luggage lock.

The SECURITECH patented zips are 3 times stronger than traditional zips and can help prevent thieves from breaking into your luggage through the zips. The zippers are a little rigid and not particularly smooth-running, but you can tell they are pretty robust.

Customers receive a 3-year limited warranty when purchasing any version within the Delsey Sky Max 2.0 range. This provides peace of mind should you experience any manufacturing defects, and you can have your case replaced or repaired at a Delsey Service & Repair location .

If you’re looking for matching luggage, the Delsey Sky Max 2.0 collection also includes medium and large checked suitcases, which you can purchase individually or as a set.

Considering this luggage collection is at the lower end of the price range for Delsey, the Sky Max 2.0 carry-on is a well-constructed case that is sure to withstand the rigors of air travel. This luggage has been designed with functionality and practicality in mind, and sometimes, that’s all you need to transport your belongings safely from A to B.

The handles leave a lot to be desired, and the wheels struggle when taking corners sharply, but can that be forgiven in exchange for a solid exterior that is extremely lightweight? We think so, especially for the very reasonable price.

• The Best Delsey Luggage
• The Best Checked Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• The Best Carry-On Luggage Bags for Any Traveler
• All Our Best Travel Product Reviews – In One Place

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does the delsey sky max 2.0 weigh.

Weighing just 5.5 pounds, the Delsey Sky Max 2.0 carry-on is incredibly lightweight. The medium checked case weighs 7.3 pounds and the large case weighs 8.5 pounds.

What material is the Delsey Sky Max 2.0 made from?

The Delsey Sky Max 2.0 is made from polyester and is finished with an elegant twill pattern. We were impressed with the material’s durability, and even after using this case several times, it still looks as good as new.

What sizes does the Delsey Sky Max 2.0 come in?

If you’re looking for luggage to match the carry-on, the Delsey Sky Max 2.0 collection also includes medium and large checked suitcases, which you can purchase individually or as a set.

Is the Delsey Sky Max 2.0 carry-on size?

Measuring 21.7 x 15.7 x 7.9 inches, this case meets the carry-on size requirements for most U.S. domestic and international airlines.

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About Amar Hussain

Amar is an avid traveler and tester of products. He has spent the last 13 years traveling all 7 continents and has put the products to the test on each of them. He has contributed to publications including Forbes, the Huffington Post, and more.

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LARGE CHECKED LUGGAGE AND SUITCASES

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Large-sized check-in luggage should never weigh you down. These hardsided and softsided rolling bags are lightweight but ultra-resilient and adhere to published size restrictions for checked luggage on most commercial airlines. Choose from 4-wheel and 8-wheel spinners that roll easily in all directions or 2-wheeled Rollaboard bags that glide over most any terrain, all sized for packing plenty, longer trips, or multiple people.

Styles range from rugged to refined and ultra-light to ultra-durable, with available features like customizable organization, TSA locks, zippered expansions, and storage for wet or soiled items. Flexible hardsides resist cracking, softsideds are treated to repel moisture, and ECOFAB™ linings made from recycled plastic bottles reduce landfill waste to protect the planet. Plus, every bag is built to last, so you can check in with confidence that your luggage will handle the trip.

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This Traveling Mom Created a Game-changing 3-in-1 Duffle Bag for Multitaskers

It's got something for everyone, and then some.

Imani Bashir knows exactly how much you should pack for your next trip — and she made a bag perfect for carrying it all.

The travel journalist and globe trotter (and frequent Travel + Leisure contributor) has made her way around the globe and back again for both business and pleasure. But it wasn't until she became a mother — while still on the road — that she realized her luggage simply couldn't keep up. So, in the name of making travel a little easier for everyone, Bashir created and launched The Takeoff Collection , a duffle that does triple duty.

"Being a mom who birthed abroad and began traveling with my son at six weeks old was truly the inspiration for creating The Takeoff Collection," Bashir told Travel + Leisure .

As a breastfeeding mom, Bashir said she needed her bag to do more, so she created a carry-on size duffle that comes with interior insulation to keep her milk and baby's food fresh, along with plenty of internal compartments to keep it all organized.

"I used to travel with so many bags and the function of the end pieces being completely detachable into individual backpacks is because of wanting to just take what I needed and leaving the rest," she said.

However, creating a bag that suits so many traveler needs was no easy task. As Bashir explained, she first had to get the idea for the bag out of her head and onto paper. So, she found a product illustrator on Fiverr to do just that. Next, she said, she "used photos of duffle bags that had a similar aesthetic and then told him all the features my bag required. Once I had the sketches, I began looking for a manufacturer who has a history of manufacturing duffle bags specifically."

After ordering five prototypes, Bashir self-tested the bags to ensure everything not only functioned but looked great while doing it.

"The Expat Bag's uniqueness comes from the multifunctionality of the bag. It's not just a bag you only need when you're going on a trip, but can be taken from the office to the gym, from home to grandma's house, and more," she said, adding one-third of the bag is insulated like a lunchbox to take baby bottles, snacks, or food anywhere you want.

"I wanted to make people's journey's easier and also wanted to provide a unique take of every travel bag that already exists. I wanted to release an entire line of luggage that all serve multifunctions because people like that," Bashir added. "I made this bag for the remote working Millennial, for traveling people with children, and for content creators and influencers. I made it for gym rats and those that care about how they look when they're headed out the door. It's a chic bag for chic people."

As for what's next for the Line, Bashir said fans can expect more pieces and designs that serve that multifunctional niche made out of sustainable materials. But first, Bashir said, she has to take this bag on the road through her journey to Central and South America.

"It's important to recognize that travelers set the tone for what's needed in this global luggage market," she said. "Having someone like me, who has lived and traveled around the world, our tribe can be certain to receive products that had them in mind first and foremost."

Get your hands on The Takeoff Collection here .

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Moscow Vnukovo Airport Transfers

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Explore russia’s capital city.

Moscow is a vibrant mix of old and new: Mother Russia meets Modern Russia. Visitors can enjoy cultural artefacts like the treasures found in the Armoury or the varied delights of the Kremlin Museums. High-brow, low-brow, any-brow will be raised in amazement at one of the performances at the world-renowned Bolshoi Theatre. The six-tier auditorium is the perfect place to take in an evening of dance and music. To really get in touch with the modern Russia, there is a thriving nightlife that has something for everyone. On a warm summer day a trip to the city’s green lung, Gorky Park, is truly essential.

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étant dans une zone sans connexiion => je n'étais pas atteignable, et ne recevais pas de messagerie. Shuttle s'est aperçu du retard de l'avion, le chauffeur était présent, comme convenu. j'ai reçu un sms,, mais n'ai étè connectée que juste a la sortie de l'aèroport,.. précisions donnes sur le sms, contrôle phonique fait par la centrale avec le chauffeur (qui parlait anglais) voiture impeccable, et conduite délicate et confortable dans le traffic , donc,

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Service-Bewertung : Ich konnte, da mein Flug ausgefallen war, ohne Umstände den Shuttle Service auf den nächsten Tag verlegen! Ich bin sehr zufrieden!! Produkt : Der Fahrer hat am Flughafen mit einem Schild mit meinem Namen auf mich gewartet. Den vorher gebuchten Kindersitz hatte er auch dabei. Bin skr zufrieden und würde hier sofort wieder buchen.

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dificult because the round trip was nt from to the same airport.

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The Most Beautiful Stations on the Moscow Metro

You might have heard that there are some beautiful metro stations in Moscow. Soviet decorations, chandeliers, mosaic painting and statues are common in many of the stations. The good news is that the Moscow Metro does not cost a lot of money and many of the most beautiful stations on the Moscow metro are on the same line, so you can almost get on and off at each station to visit these. Over the New Year holidays, I had a free afternoon and decided to visit some of these stations. Check out what I found below…..

The main stations that you will want to visit are on the Number 5 line, also known as the Circle Line. An advantage of this line is that you can get to it very easily and quickly no matter where you are in Moscow. The announcements on the metro are in Russian as well as English so you don’t need to worry if your Russian language skills are not good.

If, like me, you arrive in Moscow via train from Kyiv , then you will arrive at a metro station which many Muscovites believe to be the most beautiful of them all…..

Kievskaya metro station was opened in 1954 and features white marble walls which curve upwards and have with large mosaics surrounded by a gold trim in a very classical style. The mosaics depict life in Ukraine and was designed by a Ukrainian who wanted to display Ukraine’s influence and contribution to Soviet Russia.

Kievskaya, one of the most beautiful stations on the Moscow metro

Soviet era artwork between the arches

Mosaic with golden trim

People carrying flags is a common theme

Going into battle

Belorusskaya

If you look at a map of the metro , you will want to go in a clockwise direction on the circle line. So you will want to get on the train going in the Barrikadnaya direction and not Park Kultury. Stay on this line until you reach the 2nd station, Belorusskaya. This station was built in 1952 and like Kievskaya also features white marble pylons and a plaster ceiling.

The ceiling features 12 mosaics in an octagonal shape depicting Belarusian life, while the tiling on the floor is said to resemble a Belarusian quilt. One of the passageway exits of the station has a statue called ‘Belarusian Partisans’ of three men wearing long coats, holding guns and carrying a flag.”

Belorusskaya metro platform

Soviet artwork on the roof

The hammer and sickle features prominently in the metro artwork

Three men carrying guns, holding the flag…

Mayakovskaya

To get to the next station, we need to change onto the green line (line 2) and go just one stop to the station of Mayakovskaya. This station has an art deco theme and, for some, resembles an elaborate ballroom. The columns are faced with stainless steel and pink rhodonite while the marble walls and ceiling have 34 mosaics with the theme “24-hour Soviet Sky. Apparently, Stalin resided here during the 2nd World War as the station was used as a command post for Moscow’s anti-aircraft regiment.

Mayakovskaya metro

24-Hour Soviet Sky mosaic

Bomber planes

It looks like planes flying over Red Square

Novoslobodskaya

It’s time to get back on the metro and return to Belorusskaya. At Belorusskaya, change to the circle line again and continue clockwise to the next station, Novoslobodskaya. With its 32 stained glass panels, this station reminds me of a church. The panels were designed by Latvian artists and are surrounded by a brass border.

Novoslobodskaya metro

The platform of Novoslobodskaya metro

Stained glass artwork

The golden trim around artwork is also very common

Prospekt Mira

Back on the metro and again just one stop until our next station, Prospekt Mira. This station was originally called Botanichesky Sad after the nearby Botanical Gardens of the Moscow State University. The pylons are covered in white marble and decorated with floral bas-relief friezes. The ceiling is decorated with casts and several cylindrical chandeliers.

Prospekt Mira metro station

Notice the floral decoration

Komsomolskaya

On the metro once more and once more we are going just one stop to the next station – Komsomolskaya. This station is famous for its its yellow ceiling. The chandeliers in this station are huge. The photos below do not do this station justice.  For me, this station resembles a presidential palace.  You hace to see it for yourself to truly appreciate it.

Because of it’s location, this is one of the busiest stations in the Moscow metro as it serves three of the main train stations in the city – Leningradsky, Yaroslavsky, and Kazansky so be prepared for a lot of people.

Komsomolskaya metro

The yellow ceiling seems to go on forever

Yellow ceiling and artwork

One of the ceiling mosaics

Elektrozavodskaya

When you are ready to leave Komsomolskaya metro station behind, then get back on the circle line and go one stop to Kurskaya and change to the blue line (line 3) and go to two stops to the Elektrozavodskaya station. This station gets it’s name from a nearby electric light bulb factory and has a somewhat industrial but also futuristic style, with 6 rows of circular lamps (there are 318 lamps in total). I think this is one of the most beautiful stations on the Moscow metro for how unique it is. The station was opened in 1944 after a delay because of the 2nd World War and features 12 marble bas-reliefs of the struggle on the home front during the war.

The Komsomolskaya metro station

The struggles of war at home

Fixing machinery

Hard at work

Making weapons

Building a tank

Even the station sign is elaborate

Ploschad Revolyutsii

Back on the metro line 3 (but in the other direction), getting off at the 3rd stop – Ploschad Revolyutsii (Revolution Square). This is located underneath the square in Moscow of the same name and is a short walk from Red Square in the city centre. It is the perfect place to end a visit around Moscow’s metro. The station features red and yellow marble arches with a total of 76 sculptures in between each arch. The sculptures are supposed to represent the people of the Soviet Union and include soldiers, farmers, industrial workers, children etc… I noticed a lot of people touching the golden chicken in the photo below as well as the show of the woman. I am assuming that this is for good luck.

Industrial worker

Touch the chicken for good luck

Sculpture of the people of the Soviet Union

Woman reading a book – touch the shoe for good luck

In education

Parent and child

These are some of what I think are the most beautiful stations on the Moscow metro. Which ones are your favourite? Would you add any to this list?

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19 comments.

Kievskaya definitely caught me off guard. Didn’t know Moscow metro stations were THIS extravagant! Mayakovskaya is gorgeous too with the marble walls and mosaics. I might just need to book a flight over to admire all of these!

Do it! Kievskaya was my first introduction to the Moscow metro as I got an overnight train from Kyiv.

You know, in the States, all we ever hear is bad stuff about Russia. It’s nice to see other (and lovely!) dimensions of such a controversial place.

It’s the same in the UK which is why I prefer going to see somewhere and making up my own mind. It’s all ‘politics and bullshit’ as I say

I went to Moscow about 13years for Christmas and went to train stations, so I can see these amazing mosaics and chandeliers. I agree with you that are beautiful Stations for sure and I could of wandered around for days. I think Kievskaya is definitely my favourite out of them all and I even have some similar pictures as you.

I imagine Moscow would have been a little different 13 years ago but these stations have probably always looked beautiful

Food and Footprints

You chose some great stations for this write up! Beautiful details in these stations and would love to visit them sometime. Particularly like the Komsomolskaya station with that yellow ceiling!

Thank you very much. Komsomolskaya seems to be a lot of peoples favourite stations too

Sumit Surai

Wow! Without the text I would have thought them to be some museum or gallery.

I know exactly what you mean!

Rosie Fluskey

Wow, it is just stunning! How does anyone get to work with so much to look at. I’m surprised at the very bourgeois-looking Komsomolskaya station. I would have thought it was all too Tzarist looking, but then I haven’t been to Russia yet lol. This has just made me want to go more!

Wow, that’s a lot of artwork. I wonder how old some of these pieces are?

Generally most of the stations are from 1940-1960 approximately. The later stations are more functional than style.

My mother-in-law was in Moscow fifty years ago and still raves about the metro stations. So far, I could not imagine much. But now! The pictures are great and I think it’s almost a pity that this splendor is underground. But for every user of the Metro can enjoy a free trip to the world of art. Susanne

True. It is like having a free trip to an art museum/gallery. I hope that you can one day visit Moscow and see for yourself.

Oh wow, I would never have known that these were metro stations. The ceilings remind me of how you need to look up sometimes, even in the commuter rush!

It is true about life in general, we just go from A to B looking directly in front of us instead of around us

Wow, I would have never guessed that these were stations. The decor is so pretty and not one I’m used to seeing at metro stations. Love the ceiling at The Komsomolskaya metro station.

They certainly don’t look like metro stations. The ceiling there is one of my favourites too!

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Norilsk: The city built by gulag prisoners where Russia guards its Arctic secrets

Environmental activists are frustrated by how authorities handled a diesel spill which poured into two Arctic rivers in late May.

International correspondent @DiMagnaySky

Friday 3 July 2020 23:41, UK

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The drive from Norilsk airport to the city takes you past mile after mile of crumbling, Soviet-era factories.

It looks like an endless, rusting scrapyard - a jumble of pipes, industrial junk and frost-bitten brickwork. If you were looking for an industrial apocalypse film setting, this would be your place - but you're unlikely to get the permissions.

Norilsk was built in Stalin's times by gulag prisoners. This gritty industrial city is a testament to their endurance both of the cruelty of Stalin's regime and of the harsh polar climate. There were no thoughts then on how to build to protect the environment, just to survive it.

Vasily Ryabinin doesn't think much has changed, at least in ecological terms. He used to work for the local branch of the federal environmental watchdog, Rosprirodnadzor, but quit in June after exposing what he says was a failure to investigate properly the environmental impact of the gigantic diesel spill which poured into two Arctic rivers in late May.

At 21,000 tonnes, it was the largest industrial spill in the polar Arctic .

Despite the Kremlin declaring a federal emergency and sending a host of different agencies to participate in the clean-up, just last week Mr Ryabinin and activists from Greenpeace Russia found another area where technical water used in industrial processes was being pumped directly into the tundra from a nearby tailing pond. Russia's investigative committee has promised to investigate.

"The ecological situation here is so bad," Mr Ryabinin says.

"The latest constructions such as the tailing pond at the Talnack ore-processing plant were built exclusively by Nornickel chief executive Vladimir Potanin's team and supposedly in accordance with ecological standards, but on satellite images you can see that all the lakes in the vicinity have unnatural colours and obviously something has got into them."

Mining company Nornickel would disagree. It has admitted flagrant violations at the tailing pond and suspended staff it deems responsible at both the Talnack plant and at Norilsk Heat and Power plant no 3 where the diesel spill originated from.

On Thursday it appointed Andrey Bougrov, from its senior management board, to the newly-created role of senior vice president for environmental protection. It has a clear environmental strategy, provides regular updates on the status of the spill, and its Twitter feed is filled with climate-related alerts.

But what investors read is very different to the picture on the ground.

Norilsk used to be a closed city - one of dozens across the Soviet Union shut off to protect industrial secrets. Foreigners need special permissions approved by the Federal Security Service (FSB) to enter the region. It would take an invitation from Nornickel to make that happen and, for the past month since the spill, that has not been forthcoming.

Unlike in Soviet times, Russian citizens are now free to come and go. That's why our Sky News Moscow team were able to fly in and travel around the city, even if getting to the spill site was blocked. What they were able to film provides a snapshot of the immense challenge Russia faces in upgrading its Soviet-era industrial infrastructure, particularly at a time when climate change is melting the permafrost on which much of it was built.

Just downwind from one of the rusting factories on the city outskirts is a huge expanse of dead land. The skeletal remains of trees stand forlorn against the howling Arctic winds. Sulphur dioxide poisoning has snuffed the life out of all that lived here. Norilsk is the world's worst emitter of sulphur dioxide by a substantial margin.

"For 80km south of here everything is dead," Mr Ryabinin says, "and for at least 10km in that direction too. Everything here depends on the wind."

Immediately after the spill, Mr Ryabinin filmed and took samples from the Daldykan river just a few kilometres from the fuel tank which had leaked. By that point the river was a churning mix of diesel and red sludge dredged up from the riverbed by the force of the leak. Norilsk's rivers have turned red before and the chemical residues have sunk to the bottom, killing all life there. Nothing has lived in those rivers for decades.

In his capacity as deputy head of the local environmental watchdog, Mr Ryabinin says he insisted that he be allowed to fly further north to check the levels of contamination in Lake Pyasino and beyond.

Nornickel at the time claimed the lake was untouched by the spill. Mr Ryabinin says his boss encouraged him to let things be.

"I can't be sure I would have found anything, but this sort of confrontation - making sure I didn't go there with a camera, let alone with bottles for taking samples, it was all very clear to me. It was the final straw."

Rosprirodnadzor refused to comment to Sky News on Mr Ryabinin's allegations or suggestions that the agency was working hand in hand with Nornickel.

Georgy Kavanosyan is an environmental blogger with a healthy 37,000 following on YouTube. Shortly after the spill, he set out for Lake Pyasino and to the Pyasina River beyond to see how far the diesel had spread.

"We set out at night so that the Norilsk Nickel security wouldn't detect us. I say at night, but they've got polar nights there now, north of the Arctic Circle. So it's still light but it's quieter and we managed to go past all the cordons."

He is one of the few to have provided evidence that the diesel has in fact travelled far beyond where the company admits. Not just the 1,200km (745m) length of Lake Pyasino but into the river beyond.

He says his measurements indicated a volume of hydrocarbons dissolved in the water of between two and three times normal levels. He thinks after he published his findings on YouTube, the authorities' vigilance increased.

Greenpeace Russia have spent the last two weeks trying to obtain samples from Lake Pyasino and the surrounding area. They have faced difficulties getting around and flying their samples out for independent analysis.

They are now waiting for results from a laboratory in St Petersburg but say the samples remain valid technically for just four days after collection and that they weren't able to make that deadline due to the authorities' actively obstructing their work.

Elena Sakirko from Greenpeace Russia specialises in oil spills and says this has happened to her before. This time, a police helicopter flew to the hunter's hut where they were staying and confiscated the fuel for the boat they were using. Then a deputy for the Moscow city parliament tasked with bringing the samples back from Norilsk was forced to go back empty-handed.

"We were told at the airport we needed permission from the security department of Nornickel," Ms Sakirko says. "We asked them to show us some law or statement to prove that this was legal or what the basis for this was, but they haven't showed us anything and we still don't understand it."

Nornickel announced this week that the critical stage of the diesel spill is over. The company is now finalising dates for a press tour for foreign media and for other international environmentalists.

Mr Ryabinin thinks this should have happened weeks ago.

"If we don't let scientists come to the Arctic region to evaluate the impact of the accident, then in the future if anything similar happens, we won't know what to do."

A spokesperson for Nornickel said the company "is actively cooperating with the scientific community and will meticulously assess both the causes and effects of the accident."

Nornickel considers permafrost thawing to be the primary cause of the accident, but is waiting for the end of investigation before making a final statement, the spokesperson said.

They added that the company "accepts full responsibility for the incidents on its sites these past two months and holds itself accountable for any infrastructural deficits or poor decisions by personnel.

"The imperative is to do everything to clean up our sites, instil a stronger culture of transparency and safety in our workforce, and ensure that such situations do not occur in the future."