The Most Stunning Bridges Around the Globe

Bridges might not be your first thought when planning a getaway, yet these often-ignored structures can be true architectural wonders.

Bridges serve to link two locations — even if it’s just across a river. Beyond their practicality, they are magnificent showcases of art and engineering. Globally, people are creating innovative designs that not only improve travel efficiency but also enhance visual appeal. A stunning view becomes even more breathtaking when experienced from a beautiful bridge.

Renowned bridges worldwide showcase unique styles and decorations — from stone carvings of animals and mythical beings to elaborate balustrades, vibrant paint, and tile artistry. In cities like New York City, bridges can significantly shape the skyline.

This is why bridges serve as fantastic tourist attractions, no matter where you are in the world. In destinations like New York, San Francisco, and Paris, visitors flock to iconic pedestrian bridges for the thrill of crossing them (or snapping a quick selfie). After all, what's a trip to the Big Apple without strolling across the Brooklyn Bridge?

Bridges also offer serene spots for reflection and appreciating the surrounding natural beauty. Many bridges in China and Japan are perfect for nature enthusiasts seeking stunning views.

Explore some of the most iconic and breathtaking bridges in the world. We assure you’ll want to add them to your travel bucket list.

Tower Bridge — London, England

A defining landmark of London, Tower Bridge is a stunning structure that dates back over 125 years. This castle-like bridge features both bascule (movable) and suspension designs. Its fame has led to appearances in Hollywood films such as “Sherlock Holmes.”

The bridge’s upper level boasts a glass floor, allowing visitors to confront their fear of heights while taking in one of the finest views in London.

Charles Bridge — Prague, Czech Republic

This historic bridge spans the Vltava River in Prague and was constructed between the 14th and 15th centuries, making it the oldest bridge in the city. Initially known as Stone Bridge, it was the sole bridge made of stone at that time. One of its most stunning features is the 30 baroque-style statues that adorn its balustrade.

Széchenyi Chain Bridge — Budapest, Hungary

This suspension bridge spanning the Danube River was inaugurated in 1849 and has witnessed a significant amount of history. The bridge was destroyed by the German army in 1945 and was subsequently rebuilt in 1949. Among its most notable features are the stone lions originally carved by János Marschalkó.

Pont Alexandre III — Paris, France

This renowned French bridge is often hailed as one of the most stunning in Paris, if not the entire world. Its most charming features include the gilded iron and stone sculptures of nymphs, pegasus, lions, and cherubs. However, the bridge's prime location, near the Champs-Élysées and the tomb of Napoleon, is its greatest highlight.

Rialto Bridge — Venice, Italy

While Venice is filled with bridges, the Rialto Bridge stands as the oldest crossing over the Grand Canal. Initially constructed as a pontoon bridge in the 12th century, it serves as a gateway to Venice's financial hub. Throughout its history, the bridge has been rebuilt several times due to its use of various materials. The present stone structure was completed in the late 1500s.

Stari Most — Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Stari Most literally means “Old Bridge.” The original limestone structure was inaugurated in the 16th century and was celebrated as one of the finest examples of Islamic architecture worldwide. It stood for over 400 years before being destroyed in 1993 during the Croat–Bosniak War. The bridge was reconstructed in 2004.

Today, men participate in an annual diving competition from the bridge, a tradition that symbolizes their passage into manhood.

Helix Bridge — Marina Bay, Singapore

While this bridge may not have the age of others on the list, it is undeniably a breathtaking sight. The pedestrian bridge was inaugurated in 2010 and draws inspiration from the double-helix structure of human DNA. Along with its striking, colorful illumination, the bridge features canopies for shade and shelter.

Dragon Bridge — Da Nang, Vietnam

Indeed, this 2,185-foot bridge features a decorative dragon. This yellow steel dragon not only boasts thousands of LED lights but also breathes fire. You might think a fire-breathing dragon would pose a traffic risk, but this remarkable creation stays well clear of vehicles.

The bridge was inaugurated in 2013 to commemorate the 38th anniversary of the North Vietnamese takeover of Da Nang at the close of the Vietnam War.

Chengyang Wind and Rain Bridge — Liuzhou, China

This covered bridge is also referred to as the Yongji Bridge of Chengyang. The remarkable, three-story structure is crafted from both stone and wood, featuring five pavilions and 19 verandas. It's an ideal spot for sightseeing and enjoying the beautiful surroundings.

Kintai Bridge — Iwakuni, Japan

Constructed in the 1600s, Kintai Bridge is Japan’s most iconic bridge. Its most notable feature is the stunning arch design, comprising five arches supported by four stone and two wooden pillars. Remarkably, the bridge was built without nails, instead using interlocking wooden pieces for stability. It was later strengthened with sheets of copper.

Today, Kintai Bridge is a popular tourist destination, particularly for those visiting Iwakuni Castle or attending the annual Kintaikyo Cherry Blossom Festival.

The Root Bridges — Cherrapunji, India

While there are many living root bridges in India, Cherrapunji stands out for its exceptional examples. Located on the India-Bangladesh border, this region is known as one of the wettest places on the planet. Locals create bridges by training the roots of rubber trees through pulling, twisting, and tying them, resulting in an intricate, fantastical bridge reminiscent of Narnia from fantasy novels.

Khaju Bridge — Isfahan, Iran

This enormous structure functions as both a bridge and a dam over the Zayanderud, one of the largest rivers on the Iranian Plateau. The bridge features 23 stunning arches adorned with paintings and intricate tile work, making it a true emblem of Iranian art and architecture.

Brooklyn Bridge — New York City, New York

As one of the most famous and iconic bridges in the U.S., the Brooklyn Bridge serves as more than just a connection between two boroughs — it’s also a remarkable architectural masterpiece. Completed in 1883, it became the world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge. Due to its innovative design, P.T. Barnum, the founder of Barnum & Bailey Circus, famously paraded 21 elephants across the bridge in 1884 to demonstrate its strength, according to Mental Floss.

Today, the bridge stands as a significant tourist destination and serves as a thoroughfare for thousands of pedestrians and vehicles daily.

Golden Gate Bridge — San Francisco, California

While this iconic California bridge isn’t actually “gold,” its rusty orange hue beautifully complements the natural landscape while ensuring it stands out. When it first opened in 1937, it was the longest and tallest bridge in the world, stretching nearly a mile (4,200 feet) and reaching a height of 746 feet. The bridge links the city of San Francisco with the San Francisco Bay over the Pacific Ocean.

Sydney Harbour Bridge — Sydney, Australia

Located near the iconic opera house, the Sydney Harbour Bridge is one of the most recognizable landmarks globally. This steel arch bridge is a key feature of the Sydney skyline, particularly when it illuminates at night. First opened in 1932, it remains the tallest steel arch bridge in the world, rising 439 feet above the water below.