Five Bridges You Must Cross (At Least) Once in a Lifetime

Some are so cinematic that their mere image evokes timeless scenes. But they can also be symbolic, pivotal in the course of history, controversial, or simply beautiful. Whatever the reason, at least these five bridges must be crossed once in a lifetime.

Of course. How could one not be amazed by this vermilion suspension bridge that, with its 1.7 miles in length and 745 feet in height, is one of the longest and tallest in the world? Above all, it stands as the symbol of San Francisco. Inaugurated in 1937, there are several viewpoints to admire it from, although the most appropriate is that of Dana Bowers (also known as Vista Point), which offers a panoramic view that encompasses not just the bay but the entire city. If anyone wants to count its wires, they should know that they could wrap around the world three times.

Few images are as romantic as that of this bridge that connects the Old Town (Stare Mesto) with the New Town (Malá Strana) of the Czech Republic's capital. The city that serves as the paradigm of beauty has this monument as its most visited (or rather, most trafficked) attraction, since no one wants to miss this short walk (just 1,700 feet long) that condenses so much allure. Namely, 16 arches, 30 sculptures, and a plethora of legends that invite you to make wishes that might just come true. And if it is charming by day, don't miss its nighttime view lit by yellowish lanterns with much less foot traffic.

It is the oldest stone bridge in Europe and the most representative image of Florence, the Italian city that is the cradle of the Renaissance. There is no more beautiful twilight than that which occurs on its walkway over the Arno River, with the city aglow in orange hues and lights from the ancient goldsmiths reflected in the waters. In addition to its suspended houses (making it one of the few inhabited bridges in the world), it hides the Vasari Corridor, an extensive gallery commissioned by the Medici to connect the Palazzo Vecchio (the government palace) with the Palazzo Pitti (their residence).

We include in the list this recent construction with a surprising character. It is the latest architectural gem of Vietnam, built in the hills of Ba Na. A bridge formed by a walkway of 492 feet, suspended at no less than 4,593 feet. What's curious is that giant hands support this structure. Therefore, although its real name is Cau Vang, visitors have rushed to rename it as "The Hands of God."

No remarkable bridge could be left out like this one from Ronda (Málaga), built of ashlar stone over another bridge that collapsed six years after its construction. A bridge that spans a chasm of 328 feet over the Guadalevín River and connects the two historic areas of the Malagan city. Beyond its beauty (not for those who suffer from vertigo), there is a curiosity that says that at this point, it rains upwards. This is the effect of the wind when it blows fiercely under the arches and lifts the river's water in such a way that the droplets shoot upwards.