The meeting of land, sea and sky: there’s a reason why bridges have captivated the minds of humans since the beginning of time. No matter what country you’re from or where decide to travel to, there are guaranteed to be many awe-inspiring overpasses for you to drive across during your visit.
Here are our favourite bridges from around the world to cross in your rental car on your next getaway.
Brooklyn Bridge, USA
Film fanatics should not miss this spectacular structure, recognisable from blockbuster hits like I Am Legend, The Avengers and Godzilla. As the first site in the world to use steel-wire suspension technology and one of the oldest overpasses in the US, the Brooklyn Bridge has linked New York’s Manhattan and Brooklyn neighbourhoods since its opening in 1883. Visitors can drive, cycle or walk across this modern marvel.
Stari Most, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Diving fans may recognise this iconic overpass as a tour stop on Red Bull’s Diving World Series. In fact, this bridge has a reputation for diving, with an annual competition each summer and a local tradition that involves young men jumping from the structure into the frigid waters beneath (something only experienced divers should attempt). This icon was reopened in 2004 after being destroyed in the area’s war in 1993, but the original foundation dates back to 1566.
Millau Viaduct, France
Standing at an impressive 343-meters high, this bridge is the tallest in the world (and spanning a length of one-and-a-half miles, this is no short car ride across either!). Here, you can park your rental to check out the viewing area or even dine at the Michelin-star restaurant in the visitor centre.
Charles Bridge, Czech Republic
You’ll have to park your vehicle and walk this pedestrian-only beauty, but it’s worth it. Built over the Vltava River and constructed between 1357 and sometime at the start of the fifteenth century, this Gothic masterpiece is one of Prague’s top tourist attractions. The walkway is decorated with 30 different statues in the baroque style, and connects the iconic Prague Castle to the Old Town.
Before You Go
Before you are ready to drive off to see some bridges, make sure you are ready with your rental in terms of insurance. Car rental excess insurance is an extra feature that can be purchased to protect you in case anything happens to your vehicle while you are out on the road.
If your hired vehicle should be stolen, damaged or written up, you will likely be held responsible by the rental company for these costs – unless you purchased car hire excess insurance ahead of time. With this coverage, the insurance company will reimburse you for any excess damage fees charged by the rental company. Car hire excess insurance should always be purchased when renting a car to protect yourself against sneaky excess fees.
No matter where your travels take you, there is sure to be some magnificent bridges for you to visit during your next getaway. Don’t forget your camera to snap some photos of the iconic monuments as you drive across!
Author Plate
Sam Walker is a specialist insurance expert at LowerHire, a company that offers low-cost single trip and annual multi-trip car rental excess insurance policies. Travellers can rest easy knowing they will be fully protected against any hidden hire car costs and look forward to a stress-free rental experience.