5. Portugal’s Vasco da Gama Bridge
Situated in Portugal’s Lisbon
Founded in 1998
Price: $900 million
Sleekly spanning the Tagus River in Lisbon, Portugal, the Vasco da Gama Bridge is a striking example of contemporary engineering and architecture. This bridge, which was built in 1998 for around $900 million, was opened to relieve traffic congestion and mark the 500th anniversary of Vasco da Gama’s discovery of the maritime route to India.

Portugal’s Vasco da Gama Bridge ©Until Niermann/Creative Commons
With a length of 17.2 kilometers, it is the longest bridge in Europe and combines amazing aesthetics with practicality. The bridge serves as a prominent landmark that draws tourists with its sleek silhouette against the Lisbon skyline. It also improves connection within the region, which promotes economic activity.
