The world has some pretty incredible landmarks, and we cannot argue that these longest bridges in the world need to be seen with your own eyes.
Over the years, man has created some of the most awe-inspiring buildings, monuments and global landmarks, which is one of the main reasons we travel – to experience them all and see them in reality.
While many of these feats of engineering inspire us, others leave us captivated by their sheer size, especially when it comes to feasting your eyes on some of the world’s longest bridges.
If you are searching for the next jaw-dropping construction while on your travels, add these ten longest bridges in the world to your bucket list – they are simply amazing.
10. Manchac Swamp Bridge, USA – crossing a haunted swamp
Manchac Swamp Bridge is one of the longest bridges in the world over water. Located in the state of Louisiana and with a length of 36 km (22 miles), this impressive bridge overpasses waters filled with local crocodiles and the swamp is said to be haunted too.
9. Wuhan Metro Bridge, China – the first elevated Metro line in Wuhan
Constructed in 2004 to help ease the traffic congestion crossing the Yangtze River, Wuhan Metro Bridge carries an elevated light rail across the city for a total of 37 km (23 miles). This is, in fact, the longest unbroken metro viaduct in the world.
8. Lake Pontchartrain Causeway, USA – perhaps one of the scariest bridges
The United States is undoubtedly known for its modern engineering, and this bridge, comprised of two parallel bridges, is one of the most unique in the world.
These twin bridges run parallel for 38 km (23.6 miles), connecting Metairie, Louisiana and Mandeville, and since you cannot see the land at the end from the middle, it is a surreal experience to drive across.
7. Beijing Grand Bridge, China – one of the many incredible bridges in China
One of the longest bridges in the world is in Beijing, and at 48 km (29.8 miles) in length, this is just one of many railway viaducts that run throughout China.
As part of the Beijing-Shanghai high-speed railway, this bridge has also helped pave the way for long-distance travel in China.
6. Bang Na Expressway, Thailand – a famous Bangkok highway
Bang Na Expressway is the longest road bridge in the world and is located in Bangkok, Thailand. At a length of 54 km (33.5 miles), it was once the world’s longest bridge up until 2008, but it remains one of the best landmarks with a six-lane elevated highway.
5. Weinan Weihe Grand Bridge, China – the gateway to the west
This 79 km (49.5 miles) long bridge, which crosses the Wei River in China, is considered the natural gateway to China’s western region. As we all know, China has an array of marvellous bridges which connect the country’s vast lands, and this is just one of many.
4. Tianjin Grand Bridge, China – a marvellous feat of engineering
The Tianjin Grand Bridge is as it sounds – grand, spanning a length of 113 km (70 miles), and makes up a section of the iconic Beijing-Shanghai high-speed railway.
Also featuring high-speed trains soaring above densely populated urban areas, this has allowed for more efficient travel.
3. Cangde Grand Bridge, China – an iconic viaduct bridge
This 116 km (72 miles) long bridge features along the Beijing-Shanghai railway and is entirely earthquake-proof.
So, with 3,092 piers forming its foundation, this railroad bridge is one of the most eye-catching in the world, and we can imagine it is one of the strongest.
2. Changhua-Kaohsiung Viaduct, Taiwan – part of the Taiwan high-speed railway
Located in Taiwan, this is one of the longest bridges in the world, with an astounding length of 157 km (97.5 miles). It was built to fully withstand seismic activity since Taiwan is an epicentre for earthquakes located between two tectonic plates.
1. Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge, China – the world record holder
Alas, at our number one spot, we have the Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge, the longest bridge in the world and is located in China.
Stretching for 164 km (102 miles), this Chinese bridge holds the Guinness World Record for the longest bridge in the world, as well as the longest bridge over water, and is resistant to almost anything.
Notable mentions
Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge: As the world’s longest bridge-tunnel system, this impressive feat of engineering is a sight to behold and connects three locations making it the longest sea crossing in the world.
Dhola Sadiya River Bridge, India: India’s longest overwater bridge is something to marvel at, with its idyllic placement over the Lohit River, connecting the states of Assam and Arunachal Pradesh, saving locals hours of travel time.
Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, Japan: This earthquake-resistant bridge in Japan features six lanes. It also has the longest central panel of any suspension bridge in the world. Amazingly, this incredible structure was made to withstand powerful winds and storms.
Evergreen Point Bridge, USA: Located in Seattle in the Pacific North West of the US, Evergreen Point Bridge is the world’s longest floating bridge. It has a protected bike, and the pedestrian lane is earthquake-proof and was completed to a high standard in 2016.
Nanjing Yangtze River Bridge: The total length of the Yangtze River Bridge complex runs for about 35.66 km (22.16 miles).
FAQs about the longest bridges in the world
What is the second longest bridge?
Changhua-Kaohsiung Viaduct in Taiwan is the world’s second-longest bridge.
Where is the longest bridge in the world?
Danyang-Kunshan Grand Bridge in China is the longest bridge in the world, connecting Shanghai and Nanjing in the Jiangsu province.
What is the longest road bridge in the world?
The Bang Na Expressway in Thailand is the longest road bridge in the world. It’s a fantastic experience to drive across it.
Suppose you can appreciate incredible feats of engineering and construction. In that case, you need to add these ten longest bridges in the world to your bucket list. Especially if a trip to China is on the cards, and be prepared to be captivated by their sheer size.
