Most Beautiful Bridges To Explore In The World

Bridges aren’t usually the first thing you think of when choosing where to go on vacation, but these often-overlooked passageways can be architectural marvels. In the world of architecture, perhaps nothing is more utilitarian than a bridge. Indeed, not only do these spanning structures allow us to safely pass over a gap, but unlike some skyscrapers and homes, everyone has access to using a bridge. And just because they are functional does not mean they have to be ordinary in design. Not all bridges are just a convenient construction to connect two points by spanning a river or valley. Some of them rank among the world’s most iconic sights and millions of tourist flock to see them every year. The following bridges are jewels of architecture and marvels of technology that have become landmarks in their own right.

Tower Bridge — London

One of London’s most iconic sights is Tower Bridge, a structure that was built over 125 years ago. The castle-like edifice is both a bascule (moving, pivoting) and suspension bridge. Since it’s such a well-known landmark, it has also been featured in Hollywood films like “Sherlock Holmes.” The top of the bridge has a glass floor that allows visitors to challenge their fear of heights while enjoying one of the best views in London.

Constitution Bridge (Venice, Italy)

Completed in 2008, Venice's Constitution Bridge is an iconic landmark that stands out within a city packed with incredible architecture. Designed by starchitect Santiago Calatrava, the structure is equally as beautiful to look at from above as it is from below (which is a concave, ribbed design).

Khaju Bridge, Ishafan, Iran

This Iranian bridge is one of the finest examples of Persian architecture at the height of Safavid cultural influence in Iran. Located in the Isfahan province, the Khaju bridge performs many functions. The first is connecting the two banks of the Zayandeh river. At the same time, it works as a dam that separates two portions of the river with different water levels. Finally, it is an excellent place for leisure, with its pavilions and steps over the water, in a region where the heat is often intense.

Charles Bridge — Prague, Czech Republic

This ancient bridge, which crosses the Vltava river in Prague, was built between the 14th and the 15th centuries, making it the oldest bridge in the city. It was originally called Stone Bridge, since it was the only one made of stones at the time. Perhaps the bridge’s most beautiful feature is the 30 baroque-style statues that decorate its balustrade.

Henderson Waves Bridge (Singapore)

At it's highest point Henderson Waves bridge is just over 118 feet, making it Singapore's tallest bridge. The modern pedestrian bridge is surrounded by the regions lush natural foliage. Designed by the U.S.-based firm RSP Architects, Henderson Waves bridge connects Mount Faber Park and Telok Blangah Hill Park.

Nescio Bridge (Amsterdam, Netherlands)

Completed in 2006, Amsterdam's Nescio Bridge was so breathtaking in beauty and form that it won three major awards in a two-year span. Designed by the London-based WilkinsonEyre, the total length of the structure spans almost 2,600 feet, carrying pedestrians and cyclists over the Amsterdam–Rhine Canal.

Bixby Creek Bridge, Big Sur, California, Usa

Completed in 1932 for just over $200,000, the concrete span, one of the highest bridges of its kind in the world, soars 79 meters (260 ft) above the bottom of a steep canyon carved by Bixby Creek. One look at the canyon’s steep and crumbling cliffs, and it’s obvious that building the bridge wasn’t exactly a cakewalk. Ironically, the span was completed before the road, and it would be five more years before the route would even be opened. It is one of the most photographed bridges along the Pacific Coast due to its aesthetic design and location along one of the world’s most spectacular roads.