Galata Bridge
Some of the most famous bridges in Istanbul also have rich historical stories, and Galata Bridge is one of them. The bridge over the Bosphorus was built in 1845 between Unkapanı and Azapkapı by Valide Sultan and was named after her. The old bridge has been reconstructed several times since its opening and is known today as Galata Bridge.
The bridge is a short walk from some of Istanbul’s most popular attractions, such as Galata Tower, Beyoğlu, and Karaköy District. The bridge has two levels: the top level is for traffic and pedestrians, and it is a favorite with anglers, who cast their lines to catch mackerel or horse mackerel. The lower level has several fish restaurants where you can enjoy fried fish sandwiches and other seafood dishes with a fantastic view of the sea.
If you plan to travel to Istanbul, one of the free things to do is walk along Galata Bridge, enjoy the view, and take photos. It is also one of the best spots to experience the atmosphere of the Golden Horn.
The Ataturk Bridge
The Atatürk Bridge is one of the bridges that connect the Golden Horn to the Bosphorus. Completed in 1836, it was originally named Hayratiye Bridge. Sultan Mahmud II, who gave the order for the bridge’s construction, personally attended the opening and crossed the bridge on his horse. The old bridge has been reconstructed several times since its opening and is known today as Atatürk Bridge.
Main bridges in Istanbul across the Bosphorus
The Bosphorus Bridge
The Bosphorus Bridge is one of the most beautiful bridges in Istanbul and remains one of the city’s best-known landmarks. It is located in the heart of the city, linking the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. The Bosphorus Bridge, also known as the First Bosphorus Bridge, was officially opened in 1973. Its name was changed to 15 July Martyrs Bridge to honour the citizens who lost their lives in the coup attempt in 2016.
If you want to admire this crossing from the water, a Bosphorus Cruise offers some of the best views of the bridge and the surrounding shoreline.
The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge
The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge is one of the three main bridges in Istanbul spanning the Bosphorus strait. It is also known as the Second Bosphorus Bridge. When completed in 1988, it was the fifth-longest suspension bridge span globally. The bridge is named after the 15th-century Ottoman Sultan Mehmed the Conqueror, who conquered Constantinople.
The Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge
The Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge is one of the three main bridges in Istanbul spanning the Bosphorus strait. It is the third suspension bridge to be built across the Bosphorus. The bridge carries the North Marmara Highway between Kazlıçeşme (European Side) and Garipçe (Asian Side). The bridge is adjacent to the Black Sea entrance of Bosporus and is located slightly further north than the other two bridges.
The Kanuni Sultan Süleyman Bridge
The Kanuni Sultan Süleyman Bridge was built by Mimar Sinan, the greatest architect of the Ottoman Empire, in 1567. It is a historical bridge located on the historical road connecting Istanbul to Europe. The bridge was built by Suleiman the Magnificent at the point where Büyükçekmece Lake met the Marmara Sea and was completed by his son Selim II.
The Kanuni Sultan Süleyman Bridge is still in use today and is part of Büyükçekmece’s historical sightseeing. It is one of the beautiful bridges in Istanbul, with ancient Roman and Byzantine ruins nearby. There are cafes, restaurants, and shops near the bridge, so you can stop to enjoy lunch or dinner while taking in the views.
The Golden Horn Bridge
The Golden Horn Bridge is one of the bridges in Istanbul that spans the Golden Horn. It connects the neighbourhoods of Fatih and Beyoğlu.
The bridge’s rich aesthetic enhances the surrounding area’s appeal while also improving transportation options in Istanbul. It is a sophisticated structure, with two decks and four rail tracks, the upper deck for motor vehicles and the lower deck for trains.
For a broader historical look at the city’s bridges and crossings, you can also check general references such as Wikipedia’s list of bridges in Istanbul and official Turkey travel resources on GoTürkiye.
Tips for seeing Istanbul’s bridges
- Walk Galata Bridge for everyday local life, fishing scenes, and classic city views.
- Take a Bosphorus boat trip to see the three major Bosphorus bridges from the water.
- Visit different districts on both the European and Asian sides to appreciate how the bridges shape the city.
- Bring a camera because sunrise, sunset, and evening lights can make these landmarks especially photogenic.
FAQ about bridges in Istanbul
What are the three main Bosphorus bridges in Istanbul?
The three main Bosphorus bridges in Istanbul are the Bosphorus Bridge, Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, and Yavuz Sultan Selim Bridge. They connect the European and Asian sides of the city and are among Istanbul’s most important modern transport links.
Is Galata Bridge worth visiting?
Yes, Galata Bridge is worth visiting for its views, local atmosphere, and easy access to nearby areas like Karaköy and Galata. Many visitors enjoy watching fishermen on the upper level and stopping at the restaurants below.
Can you walk on bridges in Istanbul?
You can walk on some bridges in Istanbul, especially Galata Bridge, which is popular with both locals and visitors. Major Bosphorus highway bridges are known more for their role in transport and are usually best experienced from viewpoints or boat tours.
Which bridge in Istanbul is the oldest in this list?
Based on this list, the Kanuni Sultan Süleyman Bridge is the oldest. It was built in 1567 by Mimar Sinan and remains an important historical structure connected to Istanbul’s route toward Europe.
What is the best way to see the Bosphorus bridges?
One of the best ways to see the Bosphorus bridges is from the water on a boat trip. This gives you wide views of the bridges, shoreline palaces, and neighborhoods, while also showing how the crossings fit into the city’s landscape.
