Istanbul is one of the cities in the world that is on two continents. Many bridges in Istanbul span across the Bosphorus strait, the Golden Horn, and the Sea of Marmara. This doesn't only serve a very practical purpose but also creates a more aesthetically pleasing city. If you travel to Istanbul and looking for affordable things to do in Istanbul, this one is for you. 

Galata Bridge

Some of these bridges in Istanbul have a very rich history. The Galata 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 Beyoglu, Galata Tower, and Karakoy District. The bridge has two levels: the top level is for traffic and pedestrians, but 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 in Istanbul is to go down by the Galata Bridge and enjoy the view, take some photos, and walk on these famous bridges in İstanbul. 

The Ataturk Bridge

The Ataturk 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.

First of 3 Main Bridges in Istanbul: The Bosphorus Bridge

The Bosphorus Bridge is one of the most beautiful bridges in Istanbul; it has a lot of history and a lot of charm. The bridge is located in the heart of the city, linking the two sides of Istanbul (Europe and Asia). 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.

Second of 3 Main Bridges in Istanbul: 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.

Third of 3 Main Bridges in Istanbul: 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 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's 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 here to enjoy your lunch or dinner while taking in all 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 Beyoglu.

The bridge's rich aesthetic enhances the surrounding area's appeal while also improving transportation options in Istanbul. It's a sophisticated structure, with two decks and four rail tracks, the upper deck for motor vehicles and the lower deck for trains

Frequently Asked Question

Why should you add seeing the bridges to your list of things to do in Istanbul when you travel Istanbul?
Seeing the bridges in İstanbul gives you a great view of the city. There are many bridges in İstanbul, and they are each very different in terms of appearance. Seeing the bridges is a great choice if you and your family are looking for some free things to do in Istanbul.
Are the bridges in Istanbul modern?
There is no doubt that the bridges of Istanbul are incredible feats of architecture. Some are modern, and some are old-fashioned. Some are opulent; some are minimalist. Whatever you're looking for in a bridge, you'll find it in bridges in Istanbul. If you've never been to Istanbul, we recommend that you add visiting its magnificent bridges to your list of things to do in Istanbul.
Should I visit the bridges in Istanbul?
Istanbul is a beautiful city with many things to do. One of the attractions that you and your family can enjoy when you travel to Istanbul is visiting the bridges in Istanbul. You can get up close to the water and see the boats go by. If you are looking for free things to do in Istanbul, this is an activity that you definitely will enjoy and make some great memories.