A View from a Bridge
The bridges across the world with the most iconic views
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Bridges do more than just connect cities over bodies of water; they often define a city’s skyline, becoming a symbol for locals and a dream destination for tourists around the world.
City skylines and sweeping views inspire a sense of pride and excitement for the place people are lucky enough to visit or call home. With that in mind, we ranked the top 200 bridges across the world based on height, length, and architectural significance – reviewing volume of traffic, Google reviews, search demand and social media to find the most iconic bridge views in the United States, United Kingdom and globally.
Whether you’re cruising into the city for the first time or chasing that golden hour view from a scenic overlook, make the most of the journey with a rental car that gets you there in style and comfort. Rent your ride today and let the road—and the view—lead the way.
The most iconic bridge views in the u.s.
From the glowing cityscape seen on a night drive across the Brooklyn Bridge, welcoming you into Manhattan, to the peaceful views from the New River Gorge Bridge in the Appalachians, these structures offer more than just passage. They offer perspective.
The Golden Gate Bridge tops our list as one of the bridges with the most iconic view in the world. Known for its signature red-orange color and sweeping Art Deco design, it’s become a defining feature of San Francisco and a staple in popular culture. With over 3 million Instagram posts and countless appearances in movies and TV shows, the bridge draws millions of tourists each year, all hoping to catch a glimpse of its beauty stretching across the bay.
The Brooklyn Bridge is one of New York City’s most beloved landmarks, celebrated for its bold architecture and amazing views of the skyline. As a key feature of the city’s iconic silhouette, it connects Manhattan and Brooklyn while standing tall as a symbol of New York’s history and innovation. With over 4 million Instagram posts, the bridge continues to captivate tourists and locals alike, offering a perfect blend of design, culture, and cityscape magic.
The New River Gorge Bridge in West Virginia is a breathtaking feat of engineering and one of America’s most scenic crossings. Stretching across a lush, rugged gorge with the New River below, it offers stunning views from both the road and nearby lookouts. Despite its iconic status, it maintains low traffic of 153.4, offering a peaceful and uncrowded experience. A must-see for lovers of nature, design, and dramatic landscapes.
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel in Virginia uniquely connects Virginia Beach to the Eastern Shore with a blend of bridge and tunnel. Stretching across the bay, it offers a one-of-a-kind drive from open water to beneath the bay. Travelers enjoy stunning, wide water views and a dramatic design. Whether first-time or frequent visitors, crossing this iconic structure provides a memorable glimpse of Virginia’s beautiful coastline.
The Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge spans the Colorado River between Nevada and Arizona near Hoover Dam. One of the highest concrete arch bridges worldwide, it offers stunning views of the dam, river, and desert. With a pedestrian walkway, visitors can enjoy the dramatic scenery up close. Despite its significance, it has low traffic, ensuring a peaceful visit. Whether driving or walking, it’s a must-see marvel of engineering and natural beauty.
The Mackinac Bridge, or “Mighty Mac,” is a stunning suspension bridge connecting Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas. Opened in 1957, it spans over 26,000 feet, ranking among the longest suspension bridges worldwide. Each Labor Day, thousands join the Mackinac Bridge Walk, led by Michigan’s governor, to cross on foot. The event offers incredible views of the bridge’s towers and surrounding waterways, celebrating this iconic engineering marvel.
The Foresthill Bridge, spanning the North Fork American River in Auburn, California, is the tallest bridge in the state, standing 730 feet above the river. Opened in 1973, it was initially constructed as part of the Auburn Dam project, which was ultimately never completed. Today, the bridge serves as a vital connection between Auburn and Foresthill, offering drivers and pedestrians panoramic views of the river canyon.
The Oakland Bay Bridge, connecting San Francisco to Oakland, is an iconic structure that spans the San Francisco Bay. Opened in 1936, it is one of the busiest bridges in the United States. The bridge offers stunning views of the San Francisco skyline, the Golden Gate Bridge, and the surrounding waters. The Oakland Bay Bridge provides an amazing visual experience for drivers and pedestrians alike.
The George Washington Bridge, one of the busiest and most iconic bridges in the world, spans the Hudson River, connecting New Jersey to New York City. Opened in 1931, it stretches over 4,700 feet and serves as a vital transportation link, handling millions of vehicles each year. Known for its unique design and central role in the region’s infrastructure, the bridge offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline.
The Glen Canyon Bridge, spanning the Colorado River in Arizona, is an awe-inspiring structure that connects U.S. Route 89 to the northern rim of the Grand Canyon. Opened in 1959, it stands 700 feet above the river, offering incredible views of the surrounding canyon and the river below. As a crucial access point to the Grand Canyon, pedestrians can walk across the bridge, gaining access to stunning views of nature in the short 10 to 15-minute walk.
The Manhattan Bridge connects Manhattan and Brooklyn, spanning the East River in NYC. Opened in 1909, it offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline, Statue of Liberty, and Brooklyn Bridge. Serving vehicles, subway, pedestrians, and cyclists, it features a dedicated walkway for a scenic experience. Crossing by foot, bike, or car, visitors enjoy unique perspectives of iconic landmarks and the bustling river below.
The Rio Grande Gorge Bridge, spanning the Rio Grande River in northern New Mexico, is a stunning structure that connects the towns of Taos and Questa. Opened in 1965, it stands 565 feet above the river, offering amazing views of the deep gorge and the rugged landscape below. As one of the highest bridges in the United States, the Rio Grande Gorge Bridge provides a new perspective on the surrounding wilderness.
The Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge, connecting downtown Charleston to Mount Pleasant, is a cable-stayed bridge that spans the Cooper River in South Carolina. Opened in 2005, it stands 574 feet above the water, offering stunning views of Charleston’s historic skyline, the waterfront, and the bustling harbor. As one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in the United States, the Arthur Ravenel Jr. Bridge serves as a transportation link for the city of Charleston.
The Verrazano-Narrows Bridge connects Staten Island to Brooklyn, spanning New York Harbor’s entrance. Opened in 1964, it rises 693 feet above water, offering views of the Statue of Liberty, Manhattan skyline, and harbor. One of the world’s longest suspension bridges, it’s a vital route for vehicles and pedestrians. Its iconic design and massive presence symbolize NYC’s engineering strength and serve as a key regional landmark.
The Skyway Bridge, connecting St. Petersburg to the Tampa area, is an impressive cable-stayed bridge that spans across Tampa Bay in Florida. Opened in 1987, it stands 430 feet above the water, offering stunning views of the bay, the surrounding coastline, and the city skyline. The Skyway Bridge serves as a major route for vehicles traveling between the Gulf Coast cities.
The Perrine Bridge, spanning the Snake River Canyon in Twin Falls, Idaho, is an iconic structure known for its impressive height and stunning views. Opened in 1976, it stands 486 feet above the river, offering breathtaking vistas of the canyon and the surrounding landscape. As one of the few bridges in the United States where base jumpers can legally jump, the Perrine Bridge draws adventure seekers from around the world.
The Williamsburg Bridge connects Manhattan’s Lower East Side to Brooklyn, spanning the East River. Opened in 1903, it stands 138 feet above water, offering unique views of the Manhattan skyline, Brooklyn Bridge, and waterfront. As one of NYC’s oldest and busiest bridges, it serves vehicles and pedestrians alike. Its historic charm combined with modern use makes it a key part of the city’s iconic bridge network.
The Benjamin Franklin Bridge connects Philadelphia to Camden, NJ, spanning the Delaware River. Opened in 1926, it stands 135 feet above water, offering scenic views of the Philadelphia skyline and river. As one of the oldest iconic bridges in the region, it serves vehicles, pedestrians, and cyclists. Its striking design and historical significance make it a key part of Philadelphia’s skyline and a symbol of the city’s rich heritage.
The Phil G. McDonald Memorial Bridge spans Glade Creek near Beckley, West Virginia, and is one of the highest bridges in the U.S. Opened in the late 1980s, it offers stunning views and serves as a key part of Interstate 64, connecting communities. Named after Vietnam War hero Phil G. McDonald, the bridge combines engineering innovation with historical tribute, making it both a vital transportation route and a meaningful landmark.
The Sidney Lanier Bridge in Brunswick, Georgia, is a striking cable-stayed bridge named after poet Sidney Lanier. Opened in 2003, it rises 480 feet above the Brunswick River, offering impressive views of the water and city. The bridge is a vital link between the mainland and the Port of Brunswick, supporting local and regional traffic. Its modern design and height make it an iconic landmark in Georgia’s Golden Isles region.
The most iconic bridge views in the UK
The most iconic bridge views Worldwide
1
Golden Gate Bridge
San Francisco, California, USA
The Golden Gate Bridge is more than just a stunning landmark. Built during the Great Depression, it provided thousands of jobs and was completed ahead of schedule in 1937. Its towers rise 746 feet into the sky, and the bridge’s cables are so long they could wrap around the Earth three times. It connects San Francisco to Marin County and often appears through the city’s famous fog. Today, more than 100,000 cars cross it every day.
2
London Bridge
London, United Kingdom
Often mistaken for its more decorative neighbor, Tower Bridge, London Bridge has its own unique story. The current bridge opened in 1973, replacing a 19th-century stone bridge famously sold to an American entrepreneur in the 1960s. He dismantled it, shipped it to Lake Havasu City, Arizona, and rebuilt it as a tourist attraction. Though more understated, modern London Bridge’s location near Borough Market and the Shard makes it a key part of London’s landscape with a global legacy.
3
Brooklyn Bridge
New York, New York, USA
The Brooklyn Bridge, opened in 1883, was the world’s first steel-wire suspension bridge. Designed by John A. Roebling and completed by his son, it became a symbol of resilience and progress. Stretching over 1,500 feet across the East River, it was once the longest suspension bridge globally. Today, its wooden pedestrian walkway offers stunning views of the Manhattan skyline and remains one of New York City’s most photographed landmarks.
4
Tower Bridge
London, United Kingdom
Tower Bridge is one of those landmarks that instantly makes you feel like you’re in London. With its iconic twin towers and drawbridge design, it stands as a remarkable example of Victorian engineering. Completed in 1894, the bridge was built to allow river traffic to pass while also connecting the city’s growing neighborhoods. Today, it’s a popular spot for tourists, offering stunning views from its high-level walkways and a chance to explore the original steam-powered engines.
5
Hangzhou Bay Bridge
Jiaxing, China
The Hangzhou Bay Bridge is a remarkable feat of engineering and one of the longest sea-crossing bridges in the world. Spanning over 22 miles across China’s Hangzhou Bay, it connects the cities of Jiaxing and Ningbo, cutting travel time and making long-distance drives along the coast more efficient and scenic. With its sleek design and impressive scale, driving across the bridge offers a unique experience. Surrounded by open water and sky, it’s a moment of calm and awe in the middle of a journey.
6
Akashi Kaikyō Bridge
Kobe, Awaji Island, Awaji, Japan
The Akashi Kaikyō Bridge in Japan is a marvel of modern engineering and the world’s longest suspension bridge central span. Connecting Kobe to Awaji Island, it stretches over 12,800 feet across the Akashi Strait. Driving across offers breathtaking views of the ocean and nearby islands, with its towering structure inspiring awe. Beyond its beauty, the bridge is a vital transportation link and a proud symbol of Japan’s engineering excellence.
7
1915 Çanakkale Bridge
Turkey
The 1915 Çanakkale Bridge in Turkey is the world’s longest and highest mid-span suspension bridge. Spanning the Dardanelles Strait, it connects Europe and Asia, greatly reducing travel time. Driving across offers stunning views of the strait and surrounding landscapes, highlighting both natural beauty and impressive scale. As a vital part of Turkey’s infrastructure, the bridge symbolizes innovation, progress, and the country’s engineering achievements.
8
New River Gorge Bridge
Victor, West Virginia, USA
The New River Gorge Bridge is a true marvel of modern engineering, holding the title of one of the longest steel arch bridges in the world. Opened in 1977, it spans 3,030 feet across the New River Gorge, making it a key part of West Virginia’s scenic landscape. The bridge is famous for its breathtaking views of the gorge, but it’s also known for its thrilling annual “Bridge Day,” when daredevils rappel off the structure and base jump into the gorge below.
9
Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge
Istanbul, Turkey
The Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge in Turkey, also known as the Third Bosphorus Bridge, is a striking addition to Istanbul’s skyline. Spanning the northern part of the Bosphorus Strait, it connects the European and Asian sides of the city, offering a vital link for both traffic and trade. The bridge’s sleek design and towering structure provide stunning views of the surrounding landscape, including the lush forests and waters below.
10
Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel
Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA
The Chesapeake Bay Bridge-Tunnel is a 17.6-mile engineering marvel combining bridge and tunnel sections. Opened in 1964, it links Virginia Beach to the Eastern Shore and features two tunnels allowing ships to pass overhead. Known for stunning Chesapeake Bay views, it remains a vital transportation route. In 2007, it was named a National Civil Engineering Landmark, recognizing its significance as both a crucial link and an impressive feat of modern engineering.
11
Mike O'Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge
Mohave County, Arizona, USA
The Mike O’Callaghan–Pat Tillman Memorial Bridge spans the Colorado River between Arizona and Nevada, just downstream from the Hoover Dam. Opened in 2010, it’s one of the highest bridges in the U.S. and features a pedestrian walkway with stunning views of the dam and river. Named after a former governor and a fallen soldier, the bridge is both a vital roadway and a powerful symbol of American resilience.
12
Great Belt Bridge
Korsør, Denmark
The Great Belt Bridge in Denmark is a remarkable engineering achievement that connects the eastern and western parts of the country across the Great Belt strait. Opened in the late 1990s, the bridge system includes both a suspension and a box-girder bridge, along with an undersea tunnel. Once the longest suspension bridge outside Asia, it remains a vital link for road and rail travel, offering stunning views and a seamless connection across Denmark.
13
Yi Sun-sin Bridge
Jeollanam-do, South Korea
The Yi Sun-sin Bridge in South Korea spans Yeosu Harbor, linking Gwangyang and Yeosu. Opened in 2012, it’s one of the longest suspension bridges in the world and a symbol of Korean engineering. Named after Admiral Yi Sun-sin, it honors his legacy while serving as a key transport route. With sidewalks on both sides, visitors can walk across and enjoy sweeping views of the harbor and surrounding landscapes.
14
Mackinac Bridge
Mackinaw City, Michigan, USA
The Mackinac Bridge, linking Michigan’s Upper and Lower Peninsulas, is a monumental suspension bridge stretching across the Straits of Mackinac. Since opening in 1957, it has served as a vital connector in the state’s highway system. Nicknamed the “Mighty Mac,” it offers sweeping views of Lake Michigan and Lake Huron and welcomes thousands each Labor Day for its celebrated annual bridge walk.
15
Sydney Harbor Bridge
Sydney, Australia
The Sydney Harbour Bridge, one of Australia’s most iconic landmarks, spans Sydney Harbour, connecting the city’s central business district with the North Shore. Opened in 1932, this towering steel arch bridge supports vehicles, trains, cyclists, and pedestrians, making it a vital part of the city’s infrastructure. Visitors can walk across the bridge for stunning views of the Sydney Opera House and harbor, or take part in the famous BridgeClimb for an unforgettable experience atop the arch.
16
Forest Hill Bridge
Auburn, California, USA
The Foresthill Bridge near Auburn, California, is the tallest in the state, soaring 730 feet above the North Fork American River. Opened in 1973, it was built for the planned Auburn Dam reservoir, which was never completed. Today, it connects Auburn and Foresthill, serving vehicles and pedestrians. Its walkways offer panoramic views of the river canyon, making it popular for sightseeing and photography. The bridge is also featured in films and is a notable cantilever design.
17
Hardanger Bridge
Vallavik, Norway
The Hardanger Bridge, spanning the beautiful Hardangerfjord in western Norway, is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world. Opened in 2013, it connects the regions of Ullensvang and Ulvik, providing a vital link for both locals and travelers exploring Norway’s dramatic fjord landscape. With its elegant design and sweeping views of the surrounding mountains and water, the Hardanger Bridge offers a memorable experience whether you’re driving across or walking along its pedestrian path.
18
Bloukrans Bridge
Tsitsikamma, South Africa
The Bloukrans Bridge in South Africa spans the stunning Bloukrans River Gorge along the Garden Route in the Western Cape. Opened in 1984, it is one of the highest concrete arch bridges globally and famous for its thrilling bungee jumping, attracting adventurers worldwide. While mainly serving vehicles, visitors can visit viewing areas to enjoy sweeping views of the gorge, mountains, and lush forest below.
19
George Washington Bridge
New York, New York, USA
The George Washington Bridge spans the Hudson River, connecting New York City to New Jersey. Opened in 1931, it remains one of the busiest bridges in the world. With its twin-level design and striking towers, it offers dramatic views of the Manhattan skyline. Both vehicles and pedestrians can cross, making it a vital link in the region’s transportation network.
20
Glen Canyon Dam Bridge
Coconino County, Arizona, USA
The Glen Canyon Dam Bridge in Coconino County, Arizona, is a steel arch bridge that spans the Colorado River near the Glen Canyon Dam. Opened in 1959, it was constructed to facilitate the transport of materials for the dam’s construction. The bridge carries U.S. Route 89 and features pedestrian walkways, allowing visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the canyon and the dam. Its impressive height and engineering make it a notable landmark in the region.
Discover the full list of the most iconic bridge views in the world
BRIDGES OF BEAUTY AND BREATHTAKING VIEWS
From towering spans over deep gorges to graceful arches connecting bustling cities, bridges around the world offer more than just a way to cross—they provide moments of awe and beauty. Whether you’re gazing at iconic structures against city skylines or taking in breathtaking natural landscapes, let these remarkable bridges inspire your next journey.
