Since ancient human times, bridges have helped us make connections, gain vital access from one region to another, and provide crucial migration and trading opportunities. Over the centuries, our increased desire to be ingenious with architecture and creative with design has lead us to innovate structures that are not only functional for daily commutes, but uniquely beautiful and impressively awe-striking. Here are nine amazing bridges around the world that we think should be on your bucket list to visit!
– The Golden Bridge –
Đà Nẵng, Vietnam
This fascinating golden-hued pedestrian bridge quickly became one of Vietnam’s top attractions, luring visitors in with its unique God-like design. Held up by two large fiberglass hands that appear like stone, this massive structure is truly a marvel. Just north of Hoi An, this exceptional piece is a fun photo op on a Vietnamese itinerary.
– Helix Bridge –
Marina Bay, Singapore
– Sydney Harbour Bridge –
Sydney, Australia
In tandem with the city’s sprawling skyline and famed Opera House as the backdrop, the towering curve of Sydney Harbour Bridge stands as Australia’s iconic image. Not only is it impressively the largest steel arch bridge in the world and serves as a significant commuting route, but it's open for walking, cycling, and even climbing! Locals and travelers alike flock here to scale its 1,332 steps up to the top of the summit.
– Kapellbrücke –
Lucerne, Switzerland
Diagonally spanning the river Reuss, the photogenic timber structure of the Kapellbrücke, or 'Chapel Bridge' connects the Lucerne Theatre on the south bank with St. Peter’s Chapel on Rathausquai. Despite a devastating fire in 1993 that destroyed part of its interior paintings, this covered wooden footbridge is one of the oldest surviving trusses in the world and a beloved waypost in central Switzerland.
– Charles Bridge –
Prague, Czechia
Constructed in 1357 and serving as the only means of crossing over the river Vltava for nearly five centuries, the Charles Bridge has stood as an important historic connection and means of trade between Prague Castle, the city’s Old Town, and its surrounding areas. Daily walkers and visitors alike enjoy its beautiful arches, its two Renaissance and Gothic style towers, and its detailed statues – be sure to touch the John of Nepomuk figure for good luck!
– Forth Bridge –
Queensferry, Scotland
Spanning the estuary of Scotland’s River Forth, this was the earliest – and still one of the longest – cantilever bridges, operating passenger and freight trains that link South and North Queensferry. A claimed UNESCO World Heritage Site for being a milestone in bridge design, this is a sight to behold in eastern Scotland.
– Pont du Gard –
Vers-Pont-du-Gard, France
A masterpiece of ancient Roman design, this aqueduct crosses the river Garson in southern France, just east of Avignon. Beautiful, authentic, historic, and culturally significant, this structure is a claimed UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular attraction for locals and visitors alike.
– Sheikh Zayed Bridge –
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Known for its detailed composition and theatrical lighting displays, the asymmetrical shape of this suspension bridge is intriguing to look at. Providing one of three pathways that connect Abu Dhabi to the mainland, this busy bridge not only holds ingenious architecture, but has been a functional part of the city since 2010.
– Puente de Occidente –
Antioquia, Colombia
At the time of its construction at the end of the 19th century, this bridge was considered one of the most important civil engineering works. Adapting its design from the Brooklyn Bridge, this masterpiece connects commercial traffic across the northwestern region of Colombia. Now a registered UNESCO World Heritage Site, this is an essential landmark of the region.
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