Nicknamed “The Coathanger” because of its arch-based design, this steel arch bridge crosses over the Sydney harbor and connects the Sydney central business district and the north shore.
The bridge carries traffic from rail, vehicles, bikes, and pedestrians. The dramatic view of the bridge, the harbor, and the closeby Sydney Opera House is an iconic image of Sydney, and likewise, Australia. The bridge’s design was influenced by the Hell Gate Bridge in New York City.
Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco
One of the most iconic structures in North America, and the number one tourist attraction in San Francisco, the Golden Gate Bridge opened to the public in 1937.
It connects San Francisco to California’s northern counties and spans almost two miles across the Golden Gate, the narrow strait where San Francisco Bay opens to the Pacific Ocean. It has tremendous 746-foot tall towers, Art Deco styling, and signature International Orange color. If you plan to visit, be ready for crowds because the bridge sees about 10 million visitors yearly.
Akashi Kaikyō Bridge, Japan
The Akashi Kaikyo Bridge is a suspension bridge that connects the city of Kobe on the Japanese mainland of Honshu to Iwaya on Awaji island.
It has a length of almost four kilometers and crosses the Akashi strait as part of the Honshu-Shikoku highway. It was opened to the public in 1998.
Danyang–Kunshan Grand Bridge, Shanghai
Recognized as the world’s longest bridge, the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge is a 164.8 km long viaduct on the Beijing Shanghai high-speed railway.
Its construction was completed in 2010 after four years of work, 10,000 employees, and $8.5 billion.
Ponte Vecchio, Firenze, Italy
Meaning “old bridge,” the Ponte Vecchio was the only bridge across the Arno in Florence until 1218. The current bridge was rebuilt after a flood in 1345. The bridge is a medieval stone closed-spandrel segmental arch bridge.
During World War II, it was the only bridge across the Arno that the Germans did not destroy. Instead, they obstructed access by demolishing the medieval buildings on each side. Visitors can admire the bridge from underneath where there are occasionally theater presentations, concerts, and boat rides. It also has many shops along it filled with jewelry, art, and souvenirs.