Singapore’s Helix Bridge is crowned one of the world’s most beautiful bridges

Bridges – they’re not just part of infrastructure. While there’s that obvious functional aspect of getting us from one point to another, they can very much be a display of architectural finesse, and the finishing flourish to – or even the main star of – a postcard-worthy scene. Time Out Travel’s recently published list of the most beautiful bridges in the world spotlights many such sights to gawk at, from a single-arch beauty stretching across a gorge to a woven rope bridge teetering above rapids and a stately suspension bridge flanked by stone lion sculptures.

One of Singapore’s own gems has also found its way onto the list. Among all the storied bridges along the Singapore River, the one that takes the cake is the Helix Bridge. As Singapore’s longest pedestrian bridge, the 280-metre linkway creates a convenient over-water connection between Marina Bay Sands and the opposite bank where the Singapore Flyer and Esplanade sit. Hopping between the ArtScience Museum’s latest exhibition, to a local theatre show, and cultural spots like the Asian Civilisations Museum? Easy peasy, even on foot.

If you think the Helix Bridge is giving Sci-Fi vibes, especially when it glows neon after the sun falls, you’re not wrong. Opened in 2010, this futuristic-looking landmark’s design was inspired by the intricately twisted double helix structure of DNA – and that’s the story behind its name. Why DNA? It symbolises “life and continuity, renewal and growth” in the Little Red Dot.

Other than closing the physical gap between hotspots in the heart of town, The Helix is also a prime (and free) fireworks-viewing spot during special occasions like National Day and New Year’s Eve. Just make sure you nab your space early, because it’s an open secret among locals.

Most beautiful bridges in the world, according to Time Out

1. Stari Most, Bosnia and Herzegovina
2. Double Decker Root Bridge, India
3. Victoria Falls Bridge, Zimbabwe
4. Golden Bridge, Vietnam
5. Brooklyn Bridge, New York USA
6. Allahverdi Khan Bridge, Iran
7. Kapellbrücke, Switzerland
8. The Twist, Norway
9. Capilano Suspension Bridge, Canada
10. The Circle Bridge, Denmark
11. Juscelino Kubitschek Bridge, Brazil
12. Széchenyi Chain Bridge, Hungary
13. Mistico Park’s Hanging Bridges, Costa Rica
14. Sydney Harbour Bridge, Australia
15. Výton Bridge, Czech Republic
16. Helix Bridge, Singapore
17. New River Gorge Bridge, West Virginia USA
18. Q’eswachaka Rope Bridge, Peru
19. Xianren Bridge, China

Most beautiful bridges in Asia, according to Time Out:

1. Double Decker Root Bridge, India
2. Golden Bridge, Vietnam
3. Helix Bridge, Singapore
4. Xianren Bridge, China

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