The world’s longest suspension bridge is currently in Turkey but a new record could be held if the government in Italy gets its way with its hugely ambitious Messina Bridge project
Liam McInerney Content Editor
04:00, 27 Dec 2025
Rome was recently given approval to bulid the world’s longest suspension bridge connecting Sicily to the mainland (Image: webuildgroup.com)
The world’s longest suspension bridge has been given the green light – and it could prove hugely popular with Brits. Just four months ago, the Italian government’s plans to build the longest suspension bridge in the world was approve. It would connect the mainland region of Calabria to Sicily.
However, a lot can happen in that time. The controversial Messina Bridge project, which would cost a staggering £11.7bn, faced a huge stumbling back last month, meaning it is once again on hold. But more on that shortly.
If the bridge ever gets built along the Strait of Messina, as Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni still intends, it would be a hugely ambitious infrastructure challenge that has been talked about in Italy for decades.
The colossal bridge, consisting of two towers stretching 400-metres (1,300 feet), would span an incredible 3.3km (2.05 miles). Three lanes of traffic would sit either side of two railway lines in the middle.
It would be particularly welcomed by Brits travelling in Italy, because it would cut their journey to Sicily to just ten minutes, compared to taking the ferry, which can take a lot longer than the 30 minutes crossing when you factor in the immense queuing at peak times.
Speaking earlier this year, Meloni said: “It is not an easy task but we consider it an investment in Italy’s present and future, and we like difficult challenges when they make sense.”
Transport minister Matteo Salvini spoke in August that the goal was to have it built between 2032 and 2033. He also boasted that 120,000 jobs a year would be created, something he said would bring economic growth to the poor regions of Sicilia and Calabria, which is on the tip of Italy’s boot.
Rome was given the approval for the project in August after years of the plans being scrapped. One of the biggest reasons plans have been halted historically was concerns of mafia fraud, including worries about taxpayers’ money being siphoned off by the Sicilian and Calabrian gangsters.
Other concerns have repeatedly been raised about environmental damage, cost and safety, and given the region is one of the most seismically active areas in the Mediterranean, designers promised the Strait of Messina Bridge would be able to withstand earthquakes.
However, last month, yet another setback was reported, after an Italian court ruled the bridge would go against EU environmental and tender rules.
The Court of Auditors ruling concluded: “The assumptions regarding the various ‘reasons of public interest’ are not validated by technical bodies and are not supported by adequate documentation.”
But the Italian government is refusing to give up and has vowed to review the ruling carefully and continue with its ambitions of making the bridge a reality.
As well as still having to convince the Italian Court of Auditors and both national and EU environmental agencies, there would also be pushback from the 4,000 residents who live either side of the Strait.
Their homes would be at risk of demolition and this could mean legal challenges regarding having to abandon their properties.
As it stands, the current world’s longest suspension bridge is the 915 Canakkale Bridge in Turkey – which connects Asia to Europe and takes six minutes to cross.
Construction across the passage of water (Dardanelles Strait) started in 2017 and it only became open to the public three years ago. Journey times have been cut by up to 93%.
This means 90-minute ferry trips can be avoided by using the bridge that starts in Gelibolu, Turkey, which is based on the European side of the country, to the Asian town of Lapseki.
The Seto Ohashi Bridge spans 13.1km, connecting Japan’s main islands of Honshu and Shikoku via five smaller islands. It took ten years to complete and is one of the most expensive bridges in history
The Seto Ohashi Bridge is an engineering wonder (Image: Taro Hama @ e-kamakura via Getty Images)
A seemingly endless double-decker bridge links five islands whilst appearing to ‘soar into the sky’.
The two-tiered Seto Ohashi Bridge is a coastal landmark joining Honshu, Japan’s main island, to Shikoku set against the stunning Seto Inland Sea. Construction on the engineering wonder kicked off back in 1978 and the public were allowed over a decade later. Since then, it’s enabled millions to cross the Seto Inland Sea in just 20 minutes, slashing the previous ferry journey time of over an hour.
It’s not merely an engineering triumph. The bridge also draws in tourists. Bridge aficionados flock to vantage points like the Seto Ohashi Memorial Park to witness how the structure “soars both into the sky and distance”, as the Japanese tourist board describes it.
For those seeking a day trip, the park boasts gift shops, a rooftop viewing deck, Japanese gardens and a children’s playground. Visiting after dark offers even more breathtaking scenes as the bridge illuminates once dusk falls.
In pure statistics alone, Seto Ohashi is extraordinary. The complete length spans 13.1 kilometres (8.1 miles), with the longest section, the Minami Bisan-Seto Bridge, stretching 1,100m. The bridges accommodate two lanes of motorway traffic in each direction (Seto-Chūō Expressway) on the upper level and one railway line in each direction (Seto-Ōhashi Line) on the lower level.
The scheme took a decade to complete at a cost of US$7 billion (£5.3 billion), utilizing 3.646 million cubic meters of concrete and 705,000 tonnes of steel. The construction of the bridge also took a great human toll. Despite safety measures such as nets and ropes, 17 workers tragically lost their lives over the decade-long build. Today, it stands as the world’s longest combined railway and road bridge.
If you’re an admirer of grand architectural feats and fancy a trip to see the bridge, the simplest route is likely to fly into Tokyo and then catch a train to Okayama. You can get up close and personal with the bridge by train, bus or car. From Takamatsu and Okayama, hop on the JR Marine Liner. Buses to Memorial Park depart from Sakaide Station and take about 20 minutes.
There are several points of interest along the bridge that might catch your eye:
Seijima
Once an island, Seijima is now linked to Shikoku via a land bridge. It’s a quaint spot, home to around 500 people who continue to uphold cultural traditions and festivals, like the Daishi Market and the autumn festival. Seijima is renowned for its abundant sea bream fishing grounds. In fact, tourist companies used to run boat tours complete with geisha for visitors to witness the spectacle of fishermen hauling in their nets.
Shamijima
Similar to Seijima, Shamijima was once an island but became part of the mainland during a land reclamation project. Its picturesque beach has been recognised by the Ministry of the Environment as one of Japan’s top 100. Here, you’ll find the Seto Ohashi Memorial Park and stunning views of the bridge.
Ogoshi District
Nestled to the east of Sakaide City, the Ogoshi district is beautifully situated on the slopes of Goshikidai Mountain, overlooking the Seto Inland Sea. The area is a thriving hub for farming, particularly orange and lemon orchards. The Goshikidai Skyline, a route that meanders along the mountain’s plateau, offers breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.
Kagawa Prefecture
Once you’ve journeyed south to Shikoku, you’ll find yourself in the vibrant Kagawa. There’s an abundance to see, discover and, not least, savour here. Kagawa Prefecture is renowned as the birthplace of a famous udon noodle. Sanuki udon, known for its chewy texture, is thicker than other noodles.
The El Marco/La Codosera bridge is a short wooden bridge that crosses the Abrilongo River, connecting two countries in different time zones.
Visitors will change countries in seconds and an hour on their watch.(Image: Getty)
The El Marco/La Codosera bridge is a tiny wooden structure spanning the Abrilongo River, linking two nations in different time zones: Spain (CET) and Portugal (WET/WEST).
Those who venture across what’s been dubbed the world’s smallest international bridge will hop between countries in mere seconds whilst their watch changes by an entire hour.
The modest crossing, measuring just 3.2 metres in length, joins the Spanish village of La Codosera in the south to Portugal’s El Marco, reports the Express.
According to Fascinating Spain, the tiny crossing was constructed by local residents centuries ago.
Originally, it was nothing more than basic wooden planks to traverse the narrow waterway.
They explained: “Although with the passing of time, elements were incorporated that have given stability to the bridge (and security to the neighbours who cross it), it was not until 2008 that it was completely remodelled.
“The smallest international bridge in the world was then created, from where, in a matter of seconds, you go from one country to another.”
“The bridge currently has a footbridge and reinforcements that prevent it from being swept away if the river Abrilongo rises.
“Other details were also added to emphasise the peculiarity of this being a border bridge: on each side of the bridge, a stone was placed with the E for Spain and the P for Portugal, so that it indicates which country you are in when you cross it.”
Among other remarkable bridges worldwide is a £3.4billion crossing between two nations that charges travellers £50 to use.
A visit to San Francisco comes with culture, history and adventure, Craig Jones found out as he explored a city that brought the world a very famous bridge and the Grateful Dead
Writer Craig Jones discovered lots about the history and culture of San Francisco
“The symbolism of San Francisco, since its very origins, is that this is the edge of the world. It has always represented some kind of frontier.”
It doesn’t take being by the bay all that long for the resonance of those words, from The Beat Museum’s art director Brandon Loberg, to truly hit home. The Golden City is a cultural colossus. But be under no illusion, San Fran is famous for a lot more than a bridge, Alcatraz and Mrs Doubtfire. As I found out during a tour of the hidden gems of the city.
The aforementioned museum is dedicated to the Beat Generation, an influential 1950s movement comprising notable writers such as Jack Kerouac and Allen Ginsberg, whose quest for tolerance and compassion remains relevant in 2025.
You’ll find the museum across from the legendary City Lights bookshop in the North Beach district. Don’t let the name deceive you, as San Francisco really isn’t that kind of coastal Californian city.
Instead, North Beach is a rich, flavoursome tapestry of Italian-American identity. Since 1956, creatives have sought inspiration over coffee and pastries at Caffe Trieste, while Tony’s Pizza Napoletana celebrates Naples’ finest export with considerable acclaim. Tony Gemignani’s pizzas regularly take pride of place in round-ups of the world’s best.
After such indulgence, a stroll around the neighbouring Washington Square Park wouldn’t be the worst idea. Overlooking it is Saints Peter and Paul Church, where screen siren Marilyn Monroe married baseball legend Joe DiMaggio in 1954. For those after a small piece of iconic showbiz sparkle.
While there’s certainly a vast history to discover, San Fran is undeniably at the forefront of the here and now. Evidenced most visually in the Waymo taxis operating in the city. If you are brave enough, you can take a trip to the future in one of the 200 driverless cars. Fresh from nearby Silicon Valley, simply fire up an app, and you’ll soon be zig-zagging down Lombard Street without having to make small talk – you can also hook up any embarrassing music as loud as you like without guilt.
Whatever mode of transport you prefer, a stop at the tie-dye haven of Haight-Ashbury is an absolute must. It is synonymous with The Summer of Love, a real moment in American counterculture which saw an estimated 100,000 people come together, back in 1967, for a spiritual awakening that left a lasting imprint on society.
Pam Brennan is someone who lived the experience. When we met, she provided a vivid picture of the time and its legacy through her Haight-Ashbury Flower Power walking tour. “We used to call ourselves freaks as they made hippies seem desperate – then we claimed the word hippy back,” she told me.
Music greats Janis Joplin, Joni Mitchell and Jimi Hendrix were championed in Haight-Ashbury – you’ll find a mural dedicated to the latter overlooking Haight’s fine array of wonderful thrift stores and eateries. The renowned Amoeba Music record shop is an ideal place to grab something from one of the area’s musical, and cultural, trailblazers.
Ask any true Haight-Ashbury local and The Grateful Dead stand above all the area’s other music artists, as great as many of them were. This year has marked the 60th anniversary of the band, formed by Jerry Garcia, Bob Weir, Ron ‘Pigpen’ McKernan, Phil Lesh and Bill Kreutzmann, with a series of events honouring their songs and, most importantly, their influence. Still today, ‘Deadheads’ from all over the world make the pilgrimage, for a selfie outside the distinctive purple house in Ashbury Street where the group resided with manager Rock Scully – back in the 1960s.
The Counterculture Museum, which is based on Haight Street and opened earlier this year, has a special Grateful Dead section alongside exhibits on San Fran’s significance in pioneering the LGBTQIA+ movement, the city’s battle for racial justice, and equality for women.
During a stay at Hotel Zepplin, in Post Street, you’ll identify subtle nods to San Francisco’s role in forefronting important social causes. The hotel, which describes itself as ‘a love letter to rebels and revolutionaries’, has 196 rooms, a gym and an accompanying diner called PLS on Post.
The significance of the Grateful Dead’s anniversary hasn’t been lost on the music-themed accommodation with record players and a selection of vinyl, coming as standard in suites alongside a sweet, cherry Garcia ice cream.
It is often said that if you can’t eat well in San Francisco, then there’s something very wrong. The Californian city is considered a culinary gem. A stone’s throw (in American distances…) from Hotel Zeppelin is Bombay Brasserie, which has a menu full of dishes celebrating flavours from India’s diverse regions.
While Hook Fish presents a relaxed, casual neighbourhood atmosphere. The seafood joint is an ideal perch to refuel after a no-rush stroll at Sunset Dunes Park. You’ll find elegance and a cocktail menu demanding to be conquered at celeb chef Tyler Florence’s Wayfare Tavern. An unrivalled spot where the hours quickly float by, feasting on elevated American classics.
Whether in the sun or under the blanket of ‘Karl’, the city’s infamous fog, a ferry trip passing the Golden Gate Bridge and crossing to Sausalito ends with some of the most magnificent Italian cuisine imaginable.
Food and an authentic deep dive into San Francisco’s heritage can be explored during a walking tour with the aptly named Stretchy Pants group. The Mission district saunter provides a bite of life in the mainly Latin-American area, channelling the important stories its food tells. The message is clear, as guide Robert Magee states: “This area has always been a bastion of resistance to the establishment.”
This is echoed by gazing upon the Mission’s mesmeric murals. Enchanting in their colourful splendour, while pulling no punches. My Stretchy Pants experience concluded in the Castro neighbourhood. A groundbreaking, joyous celebration of the LGBTQIA+ movement. Vibrant and welcoming, it is home to the renowned Castro Theatre alongside a number of clubs and bars.
The Twin Peaks, housed on the corner of Castro and 17th, is a must-visit. It was the first American gay bar to have transparent plate-glass windows – that clear act of defiance was an inspiration to others. Next door there’s Hot Cookie where, let’s just say, many ‘playful’ sweet treats can be devoured. Let your imagination flow on that one…
For certain, there’s a memorable night out waiting in Castro. There’s much vibrancy to San Fran’s nightlife offering. Elsewhere, you can feel the history in the walls of The Great American Music Hall with it dating back to 1907. An Evening with Robin Williams, from San Francisco’s much-missed adopted son, was filmed there in 1982. While this year, the brilliantly bonkers Misfit Cabaret celebrated their 10th anniversary – they are irregular regulars at the O’Farrell Street institution.
Another diverse thread to the city’s cultural cloth comes in the shape of the annual festival Super Flex. The contemporary arts event takes over Chinatown’s streets. Among many 2025 highlights, seeing a hugely talented DJ orchestrate a street rave as he played an Earth, Wind, and Fire mix from a gigantic animatronic fish was something truly unique to behold.
After all that, a rest might be needed. A relaxing one can be found at the Kimpton Alton Hotel in the family-focused Fisherman’s Wharf area. The hotel offers 248 accommodation options, including spacious rooms and suites. It also has record players in their rooms, allowing you to give your Amoeba purchases a spin – additionally, you’ll find a selection of the Kimpton Alton’s picks in your room.
The hotel has a gym and Filipino restaurant Abacá serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. It is where yours truly discovered a fondness for ube. The purple yam, native to the Philippines, added an extremely bold and striking composition to an evening cocktail.
Fully recharged, Pier 39, and the Wharf’s other tourist attractions are on your doorstep – alongside some stunning water views. You can actually experience the latter first-hand by taking a solo expedition, on the waves, courtesy of City Kayak – based beside Oracle Park, the home of the San Francisco Giants baseball team. There are routes for all abilities, beginner to club level, where you’ll almost certainly encounter one of San Fran’s native sea lions.
Once I’d stopped spinning in circles, I followed a number of Giants fans on the waves to Oracle Park, where some supporters watch the games, for free, from the stadium’s big screen, bobbing in their kayaks with a beer. If you love sport, this ritual is such a one-of-a-kind experience. Later, I also got to enjoy the action, from the stands, inside Oracle Park as the Giants hosted their rivals, the LA Dodgers.
As you head on the home run, the adorable Wag Brigade will make one last cute play in persuading you to extend your stay. Consisting of a team of adorable dogs, the pawsome San Francisco Airport initiative, launched in 2013, aims to make plane travel a little less stressful as they patrol SFO’s terminals.
Back home, you’ll be barking enthusiastically, reciting San Francisco’s tales.
Book the holiday
Rooms at The Hotel Zeppelin start from $179 (approximately £133). You can book at zhotelssf.com.
Kimpton Alton Hotel rooms start from $685 a night (approximately £512) and can be booked at altonhotelsf.com.
British Airways flies from London Heathrow to San Francisco from £489 return, including taxes and carrier fees. Book on ba.com.
