Spanning out between Asia and Europe, Bosphorus Bridge is an epitome of amazing architecture. Being one of the three suspension bridges constructed over the Bosphorus Strait, Istanbul, connects the European and Asian side of the Turkish capital. This bridge is a haunt for photographers as you can get a view of the greater part of the city along the Bosphorus Strait. The Bosphorus Bridge location makes it a very renowned attraction and the history of the bridge adds to its significance as a world-famous tourist spot. Well, if you are worried about missing out on the tour, then you have the Istanbul City Bus Tour service that will take you over the bridge.
The first attempt to make the bridge was done in the year 511BC. The king was able to transfer his entire army to the other side of the water body using a makeshift bridge made with boats. Later Italian architect Mondrakol proposed a permanent bridge but that was not supported by the Sultan Abdulhamit II. The Bosphorus Bridge was completed on 30th October 1973. Previously one could walk along the length of the bridge but now Bosphorus bridge walk is not allowed, only vehicles are allowed to cross.
Best Time To Visit Bosphorus Bridge
The best time to visit the bridge would be at night when it is lit up with LED lights. It makes up the most photograph-worthy site in Istanbul. Take a cruise at the Bosphorus Bridge at night and enjoy the beautiful sight of the lit up bridge.
But if you are too enthusiastic about walking the bridge then you must join the Istanbul Marathon. This is Turkey’s biggest marathon race which takes place every year in November. The route of the marathon crosses over the bridge so this is the only the pedestrians are allowed on the bridge.
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Bosphorus Bridge Statistics & Facts
The Bosphorus Bridge length is 1,560 meters and the deck of the bridge is around 33.5 meters. By the statistics of the river, one can understand that it is a very expansive and huge bridge. No wonder it once stood at the fourth position among the longest suspension bridges of the world. The architecture, with its broad pillars, is an impressive sight to behold. Here are other interesting facts about the bridge:
- This bridge is an emblem of the country.
- Crossing the bridge on foot is highly forbidden.
- There is a toll bridge here where you cannot pay with cash or card.
- The only way of paying toll taxes is with a toll transponder. So make sure that the vehicle you get on ha one.
- Today around 180,000 vehicles pass daily on the bridge.
- The bridge sags for about 90 cm right in the middle when the bridge is fully loaded.
- In the year 2013, Tiger Wood’s ball from the Asian side fell on the bridge. It fell on the European side.
- The bridge costs around US$300 million today.
Places To Visit Around Bosphorus Bridge
While you are at it, here are other interesting places to visit around the magnificent bridge to make the best of your trip to Istanbul.
1. The Blue Mosque
The minarets of the blue mosque can be seen from the Bosphorus bridge. It is also known as the Sultan Ahmed mosque and is a historical site of interest. You have to dress carefully when you are visiting the mosque. Make sure that your head is covered when you are entering the place. It is one of the two mosques in Turkey to have six minarets in the premises. The interior is decorated with more than 20,000 tiles made of ceramic. Its bewitching architecture makes a pretty good reason to visit this mosque.
Location: Sultan Ahmet Mahallesi, Atmeydanı Cd. No:7, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey
Must Read: Istanbul Travel Tips For A Hassle Free Trip To This Beautiful Old City Of Minarets
2. Hagia Sophia
Hagia Sophia is another church turned mosque that can be seen from the bridge and also on Bosporus cruises. This used to be a former Greek Orthodox church which was later turned into a mosque during the Ottoman Empire. Today it is a museum where history enthusiasts from all over the world visit. This structure is famed for its dome at the top. Hagia Sophia literally translates to ‘holy wisdom’.
Location: Sultan Ahmet Mahallesi, Ayasofya Meydanı, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul, Turkey
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3. Ortaköy Mosque
This is another splendid structure that can be seen from the Bosporus Bridge. This is however on the European side of the Bridge. This is a very picturesque destination of the country. Built in the 18th century, it served as the grand imperial mosque for the Ottoman Sultan. The mosque remains closed to visitors during prayer times.
Location: Mecidiye Mahallesi, Mecidiye Köprüsü Sk. 1/1, 34347 Beşiktaş/İstanbul, Turkey
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Restaurants Around Bosphorus Bridge
The country is very well known for its cuisines. However, enjoying your meals at a Bosporus Bridge restaurant is a grand experience. Here are the names of a few restaurants that will serve you both good view and good food. You have the Bosporus rooftop restaurant. From here you can get a view of the bridge while enjoying your meal.
Then you have the restaurant known as Banyn. This one is very close to the bridge. It is well known for its authentic cuisine. It uses organic and fresh ingredients only. As a result, it is quite a popular spot.
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How To Reach Bosphorus Bridge
If you have to reach the Ortaköy side of the bridge from Sultanahmet, then you will have to take the T1 tram to Kabatas. After which you will get connecting buses to Ortaköy. There is also an alternative route that is by water. You can take the ferry from Eminönü to Ortaköy. However, keep in mind that you cannot take a ferry on Sundays as the services are closed on these days.
Now if you want to get to the Asian side of the bridge then take the ferry from Eminönü to Üsküdar. This will help you get to the Beylerbeyi Palace. But after getting off the ferry you will have to get onto the palace bound buses.
Location: Kuzguncuk Mahallesi, 15 Temmuz Şehitler Köprüsü, Üsküdar/İstanbul, Turkey
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Best Way To Visit Bosphorus Bridge
The best means to explore the bridge and the surrounding areas would be by taking a Bosphorus cruise. There are many cruises that begin at the Golden Horn. This is an important tourist spot in the country. If you take the cruise then you will come across a number of beautiful tourist spots that are sure to make a place in your photo collections.
Further Read: Bosphorus Cruise Istanbul: A Once In A Lifetime Experience
These are some of the highlights of the famous Bosporus Bridge. A lot of people from all over the world visit this famous spot all throughout the year. A good part of the country’s economy is dependent on the tourism of the country. Make sure to have a safe trip to Istanbul.
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