The longest bridge in the world: where is it located and how to get to it?

Bridges are not just engineering structures, but real masterpieces of architecture that connect continents, countries and cultures. Among them there are real giants, whose size amazes the imagination. The longest bridge in the world is not just a record, but the result of decades of design, construction and innovation. Such structures become symbols of progress and tourist magnets, attracting millions of travelers every year.

But where is this record holder? What technologies made it possible to create a bridge tens of kilometers long? And how do these giant structures affect the transport infrastructure of the regions? In this article, we will not only reveal the secret of the longest bridge on the planet, but also introduce you to other impressive structures that are fighting for the title of “the very best”. And for road travelers, we have prepared practical tips on how to include these sites in your trip itinerary.

Modern bridges are not just road surfaces, but highly complex engineering systems. They must withstand enormous loads, withstand the elements and serve for decades. Bridge length often becomes a key factor determining its significance. But it is important to understand that record numbers are achieved in different ways: some bridges stretch over water, others connect islands, and others become part of large-scale transport interchanges.

For motorists, these structures are of particular interest. Driving across such bridges is not only a way to quickly overcome water obstacles, but also a unique opportunity to see panoramic views that open from a bird's eye view. However, there are nuances: some bridges have special traffic rules, while others charge tolls. We will talk about this and much more further.

TOP 5 longest bridges in the world in 2026

Today, the bridge holds the palm, which has become a real triumph of Chinese engineers. But the top five includes structures from different countries, each of which is unique in its own way. Let's take a closer look at them, starting with the absolute record holder.

All bridges from this rating have total length more than 30 kilometers, which is comparable to the distance between residential areas of a large metropolis. Moreover, their construction took from 5 to 15 years, and the project budgets amounted to billions of dollars.

• 🥇 Danyang-Kunshan Bridge (China) - absolute record holder since 2011
• 🥈 Changhua-Taichung Bridge (Taiwan) - the second longest viaduct in the world
• 🥉 Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge (China) - the longest offshore structure
• 4️⃣ Bang Na Bridge (Thailand) - record holder for the longest road bridge
• 5️⃣ Weifangwei Bridge (China) - one of the youngest giants

Interestingly, three of the five bridges are located in China, which indicates a large-scale infrastructure program in this country. Moreover, each bridge has unique design features: from multi-level interchanges to underwater tunnels integrated into the overall system.

Absolute record holder: Danyang-Kunshan Bridge

Danyang-Kunshan Bridge - this is not just the longest bridge in the world, but a whole viaduct length 164.8 kilometers, which connects Shanghai and Nanjing. This structure became part of the Beijing-Shanghai high-speed railway and opened to traffic in 2011.

Structurally, the bridge is a combination of overpasses, viaducts and bridges over water barriers. The most impressive section is the 9-kilometer bridge over Yangcheng Lake, which rises 100 meters above the water. Construction took place from 2006 to 2010, and the total cost of the project was about $8.5 billion.

This bridge is interesting for motorists because a highway runs parallel to the railway. G2, which allows you to cross the bridge by car. However, there are important nuances:

• 🚗 Maximum permitted speed: 100 km/h
• 💰 Toll: about 100 yuan (~$14) for passenger cars
• ⚡ Lighting: The bridge is fully illuminated at night, creating a breathtaking view
• 📡 Navigation: recommended to use Baidu Maps or Amaps, since Google Maps may provide inaccurate data

⚠️ Attention: There is strict speed control on the bridge. Speeding by more than 20% will result in a fine of 200 yuan and a deduction of 6 points in the Chinese driving license system.

Unique technologies for building record bridges

Creating bridges tens of kilometers long requires revolutionary engineering solutions. Modern giant bridges are built using technologies that seemed fantastic just 20 years ago. Let's look at the key innovations that made it possible to build these structures.

One of the main problems in the construction of long bridges is thermal expansion of materials. If the temperature changes by 40°C, a steel structure 1 km long can change its length by 50 cm! To compensate for this effect, special expansion joints and movable supports.

Another technological feature is modular construction. Most modern bridges are assembled from prefabricated sections that are transported to the site and installed using heavy-duty cranes. For example, the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge was assembled from 33 huge sections, each weighing about 7,400 tons!

Technology	Application	Bridge example
Prestressed concrete	Allows you to create long spans without intermediate supports	Bang Na Bridge (Thailand)
Hybrid steel-concrete structures	Combines the strength of steel and the durability of concrete	Changhua-Taichung Bridge (Taiwan)
Underwater tunnels as part of the bridge	Allows you to cross shipping channels without high supports	Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge
Intelligent monitoring systems	Makes it possible to monitor the condition of structures in real time	Danyang-Kunshan Bridge
Windbreaks	Reduces wind load on high bridges	Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge (Japan)

The system deserves special attention seismic resistance, which is used on bridges in seismically active regions. For example, the Changhua-Taichung Bridge in Taiwan is designed to withstand earthquakes of up to magnitude 7.5. For this purpose special dampers and flexible connections, which dampen vibrations.

How are underwater tunnels built as part of bridges?

Underwater tunnels, such as those on the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, are constructed using the submerged section method. First, huge concrete sections up to 180 meters long are made on land. They are then transported on barges to the construction site, where they are lowered to the prepared bottom using special cranes. The sections are connected to each other with waterproof joints, and soil is poured on top to protect them from ships.

Record-breaking bridges as tourist sites

Giant bridges have become not only transport arteries, but also popular tourist attractions. Many of them offer special viewing platforms, museums and even tours of the interior structures. For road travelers, this is an excellent opportunity to combine a practical trip with an educational vacation.

For example, a bridge Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau has become a real calling card of the region. Special tours are organized here, which include:

• 🏞️ Visit to an artificial island with panoramic views
• 📸 Photo sessions against the backdrop of unique architecture
• 🍽️ Tasting local cuisine in restaurants on the bridge
• 🛍️ Shopping in duty-free zones

Bridge in Thailand Bang Na has become part of a popular route for motorcyclists. Its upper level offers stunning views of Bangkok, especially beautiful at sunset. And in China there is a bridge Danyang-Kunshan included in many New Silk Road tours.

⚠️ Attention: Some bridges (for example, Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau) have special rules for tourists. Thus, photographing military installations and border control zones is prohibited under threat of a fine of up to 5,000 Hong Kong dollars (~$640).

How to include record bridges on a road trip

For motorists planning routes through Asia, driving across record-breaking bridges can be an unforgettable adventure. However, such a route requires careful preparation. Here are the key points to consider:

First, check border crossing rules. Some bridges, like Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau, connect special administrative regions with special entry rules. For example, you may need a separate visa to travel to Macau, even if you already have a Chinese one.

Secondly, study fare payment system. Most bridges have an electronic toll system, but there may be special conditions for foreign cars. On the Bang Na Bridge in Thailand, for example, foreigners pay twice as much as locals (about 30 baht instead of 15).

Finally, consider climatic features. During the monsoon season, some bridges may close due to strong winds or rain. This is especially true for high bridges such as Danyang-Kunshan, where wind gusts can reach 30 m/s.

• 🗺️ Route Shanghai-Nanjing: includes Danyang-Kunshan Bridge (164 km)
• 🏙️ Hong Kong-Macau Tour: travel via Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge (55 km)
• 🌴 Trip around Thailand: Bang Na Bridge (54 km) as part of the ring road around Bangkok
• 🏯 Taiwan Cultural Route: Changhua-Taichung Bridge (38 km) + historical attractions

Economic Significance of Record Bridges

Building giant bridges is not only an engineering feat, but also a powerful economic driver. Such structures radically change the transport accessibility of regions and stimulate trade and tourism. Let's look at the key economic effects using the example of the leaders in our rating.

Bridge Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau reduced travel time between these cities from 4 hours to 45 minutes. This led to:

• 📈 Increase trade turnover between regions by 30% in the first year
• 🏨 Increase in tourist flow by 25% in Macau
• 🏗️ Construction boom in Zhuhai (new hotels, shopping centers)

Bridge in Thailand Bang Na became part of a program to relieve Bangkok from traffic jams. Thanks to him:

• 🚗 Travel time through the city has been reduced by 50-70 minutes
• 💰 The economic effect is estimated at $3 billion per year
• 🏭 New industrial zones have appeared along the bridge

Chinese Bridge Danyang-Kunshan became part of the Beijing-Shanghai high-speed line, which allowed:

• 🚄 Increase passenger traffic by 40%
• 🏭 Create new logistics hubs along the route
• 🌱 Reduce CO₂ emissions by switching from air to rail transport

The future of bridge construction: what records await us?

Engineers do not stop there, and today they are designing bridges that will surpass the current record holders. One of the most ambitious projects is Bering Strait Bridge, which can connect Russia and the USA. Its estimated length is 86 km, of which 64 km will be over water.

Another revolutionary project is floating bridge in Norway, which will consist of suspended tunnels mounted on pontoons. Such a bridge will allow crossing fjords without high supports, which is especially important in conditions of strong winds.

China has already begun construction of a bridge across Qingdao-Haiwan Gulf, which will become the longest sea bridge in the world (58 km). Its feature will be an integrated system of wind generators that will provide the bridge with electricity.

For motorists, the future promises the emergence of “smart bridges” with:

• 🤖 Automatic damage repair system
• 🚗 Lane for self-driving cars
• ☀️ Built-in solar panels
• 📡 5G system for communication between machines

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the longest bridges

Is it possible to drive across the Danyang-Kunshan Bridge in a regular car?

Yes, there is a motorway running parallel to the high-speed rail G2, available for passenger cars. However, please note that in some areas there are restrictions for trucks weighing more than 40 tons.

How much does it cost to travel on the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge?

The cost depends on the type of vehicle:

• 🚗 Passenger car: 150 Hong Kong dollars (~$19)
• 🚐 Minibus: 200 HKD (~$25)
• 🚛 Truck: 300 HKD (~$38)

Payment is accepted by electronic means or in cash at special cash desks.

What documents are needed to travel across the bridge between Hong Kong and Macau?

To travel you will need:

• 🆔 Passport with Macau visa (if required)
• 🚗 International driver's license
• 📄 Car insurance (green card or local policy)
• 🏷️ Special travel permit (can be issued online)

Important: Rules may change, so please check for current information before travelling.

Are there gas stations or rest areas on record bridges?

Yes, most long bridges have rest areas:

• 🛣️ Danyang-Kunshan Bridge: 3 rest areas with toilets and cafe
• 🌉 Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge: artificial island with restaurants and hotel
• 🏙️ Bang Na Bridge: observation deck with cafe on the top level

However, there are usually no gas stations on the bridges themselves; they are located at the entrances.

Is it possible to stop on the bridge to take photos?

The rules vary depending on the bridge:

• ✅ Allowed: there are special platforms on the Bang Na Bridge (Thailand)
• ⚠️ Limited: on the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge only in special areas
• ❌ Prohibited: On the Danyang-Kunshan Bridge, stopping is allowed only in emergency situations

In all cases, you cannot stop on the roadway - this will result in a fine.