The Longest Bridges in the World

They link different cities together and connect people, goods and services. However, they don’t always get the recognition they deserve. To highlight the value of these essential constructions, here at Civitatis we’d like to tell you all about the longest bridges in the world. 

The official list has more than 300 bridges all over the world. As we don’t have the space to tell you about all of them (although we wish we could!), we’ve chosen a small selection of different crossings. Each one is located in a different part of the world so we can show you some of the greatest feats of engineering found across five continents.

From China to Spain, South Korea to Portugal, let’s start exploring these amazing bridges!

The longest bridges in the world

1. Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge, China
2. Incheon Bridge, South Korea
3. Vasco da Gama Bridge, Portugal
4. Mackinac Bridge, USA
5. Öland Bridge, Sweden
6. The Constitution of 1812 Bridge, Spain

Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge: The Longest Bridge in the World

The Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge is officially the longest bridge in the world. It stretches out for no less than 102.4 miles (164.8 kilometres) and forms part of one of China‘s most important railway connections: the high-speed train between Beijing and Shanghai.

After it was unveiled on 30th June 2011, it was recognised by the Guinness World Records as the longest bridge in the world. Its numbers are certainly astounding, as it towers at 100 feet (30 metres) high and had more than 10,000 people work on its construction.

If you ever find yourself travelling on a fast train over this bridge, you’ll gaze out at the beautiful scenery. Lowlands, lakes, rivers and rice paddies will flash past the train window while you admire the views.

Incheon Bridge: An Important Connections Hub in South Korea

Another incredible feat of engineering in Asia would be Incheon Bridge, the longest bridge in South Korea. This bridge is an essential access point, as it connects Yeongjong Island to the mainland of the Korean peninsula.

If you’re wondering where in South Korea you need to visit to see Incheon Bridge, we’ve got it covered! Visitors only need to fly to Seoul, as if you’re flying to the South Korean capital your plane will most likely land at Incheon International Airport.

All forms of transport connecting the terminal with the city pass over Incheon Bridge, so you’ll definitely see this spectacular crossing!

Vasco da Gama Bridge: One of the Longest Bridges in the World

Let’s travel to Europe to see some more bridges! Another one of the longest bridges in the world would be Vasco da Gama Bridge. It extends across the Tagus River next to the beautiful city of Lisbon and is an iconic symbol of Portugal.

The bridge was built between 1995 and 1998. Until then, it was difficult for people and goods in the region of Lisbon to cross the Tagus River. After the bridge was constructed, this became a lot easier. Its name is a tribute to the Portuguese navigator Vasco da Gama and his arrival in India in 1498.

Mackinac Bridge across the Straits of Mackinac, Michigan

Between Lakes Michigan and Huron in the northern United States, there’s a major highway that bridges these two geographical features. This is Mackinac Bridge, which links the Lower and Upper Peninsulas in the Great Lakes region.

As well as being one of the longest bridges in the world, the Straits of Mackinac route is an iconic symbol of American engineering. Its dimensions are also record-breaking, as it’s 26,372 feet (8038 metres) long, 68.6 feet (20.9 metres) wide and 552 feet (168 metres) high.

Öland Bridge: A Colossal Feat of Swedish Engineering

If you’re travelling to Sweden and you’re a fan of engineering, you’ll definitely want to see this bridge! Ölandsbron, which is also one of the longest bridges in the world, links the Scandinavian peninsula and the island of Öland.

During the almost 5 years it took to build the bridge, which cost a total of 80 million Swedish kronor, nearly 100,000 cubic metres of concrete were used.

Crossing the Baltic Sea over the Oland Bridge is an incredible experience. You’ll feel the unique sensation of floating on the water as you glide across the bridge.

The Constitution of 1812 Bridge

The list of the world’s longest bridges also includes a Spanish bridge. This would be the Constitution of 1812 Bridge, an essential link in the Bay of Cadiz.

This overpass is one of the most modern on the list, having been inaugurated in 2015. It’s also one of the most beautiful cable-stayed bridges in the Spanish region of Andalusia.

If you sail across the bay of Cádiz, you’ll see the bridge from almost any point. In addition, this part of southern Spain has lots of daylight hours a year, so if you’re visiting the city you’ll see the bridge (which is also known as La Pepa Bridge) very clearly. To enjoy the best panoramic views of the bridge, we recommend taking a private boat trip around Cadiz.

Well, there you have it! Those are some of the longest (and coolest) bridges in the world! There are lots to discover all around the world. If you want to check some of them out for yourself, have a look at tours and activities with Civitatis!