If you’re heading to Lisbon, you probably already have a list of places to visit—historic castles, pastel-colored buildings, and local treats. But have you considered driving across the longest bridge in Europe?
The Vasco da Gama Bridge isn’t just a road—it’s a breathtaking experience, offering panoramic views over the Tagus River and connecting the city with its quieter outskirts. Let’s dive into everything we need to know to make the most of this iconic crossing.
Basic Facts: What Makes This Bridge So Special?
The Vasco da Gama Bridge (Ponte Vasco da Gama) stretches 12.3 kilometers (7.7 miles) across the Tagus River. It’s an impressive cable-stayed structure completed in 1998, just in time for Expo ’98 in Lisbon. Designed to withstand both strong Atlantic winds and seismic activity, the bridge was named to commemorate the 500th anniversary of explorer Vasco da Gama’s voyage to India.
It held the title of Europe’s longest bridge until 2018 and remains Portugal’s longest. Whether we drive, take a tour, or admire it from the riverside, it’s a modern engineering marvel.
Is There an Entry Fee or Ticket?
Great news: there’s no fee to view or walk near the bridge. However, if you're driving northbound toward Lisbon (from the Alcochete side), there is a toll:
- Cars: $2.55
- Vans/SUVs: ranges from $5.10 to $11.30, depending on weight
If you're driving south, there is no toll—the crossing is completely free in that direction.
Opening Hours: When Can We Visit?
The bridge is part of the A12 highway and is open 24/7. While there's no official visiting hour, we suggest going during daylight, especially around sunrise or sunset, for the best views.
How Do We Get There?
There are several easy options:
- By car: Drive on the A12 highway, which crosses the bridge.
- By public transport: Take the Red Metro Line to Oriente Station, then walk to Parque das Nações, where we can enjoy great views of the bridge.
- By guided tour: Some modern architecture or Tagus River tours include stops near the bridge.
Best Viewing Spots
Although pedestrians can’t walk on the bridge, these spots offer the best views:
- Parque das Nações: A lovely riverside area with benches and trails.
- Vasco da Gama Tower: One of Portugal’s tallest buildings with amazing views.
- Lisbon Cable Car (Telecabine Lisboa): A scenic ride above the river with perfect angles of the bridge.
Best Time to Visit?
The ideal time is between April and October, when Lisbon enjoys warm, sunny weather. For photography, try:
- Sunrise: Calm light and minimal crowds
- Sunset: When the bridge and sky glow together
- Avoid weekday rush hours (8–10 AM and 5–7 PM) if you plan to drive, as traffic can get intense.
Travel Tips for a Smooth Visit
1. Bring a camera: The river views are truly photo-worthy.
2. Use GPS or a reliable map app: To avoid confusing exits or traffic.
3. Wear comfy shoes: If walking along Parque das Nações.
4. Plan a half-day trip: Include the bridge and nearby attractions.
What’s Nearby and Worth Visiting?
While visiting the area, we can also check out:
- Lisbon Oceanarium – One of Europe’s top aquariums (tickets around $22 for adults)
- Pavilion of Knowledge – A fun science center, especially great with kids
- Vasco da Gama Shopping Center – Indoor mall with shops, restaurants, and restrooms
Let’s Cross It Together!
So Lykkers, the Vasco da Gama Bridge isn’t just an engineering marvel—it brings us face-to-face with Lisbon’s bold and modern spirit. Standing by the riverside, watching its elegant lines stretch into the horizon, we can truly feel the scale and ambition behind it.
Next time we're in Portugal, let’s take a moment to see the city from a different perspective. A quiet sunrise over the Tagus, a scenic ride in the cable car, or a smooth drive across the bridge—it’s the perfect way to add something fresh to our Lisbon journey. Have you seen this side of the city before? Drop us a message—we’d love to hear your story and plan our next big step together.
The (up until recently) longest bridge in Europe: Vasco da Gama - Lisbon, Portugal
Video by erka001
