The Vasco da Gama Bridge crosses the Tagus in eastern Lisbon, stretching 12.3 kilometres across the river and its estuary. Completed in 1998, it is an impressive piece of modern engineering, with long spans and clean lines that stand out against the open water and sky. For a closer look, cross by car; for views from shore, walk the Parque das Nações promenade or take the riverside cable car. The bridge is a working road, so its scale is easiest to appreciate from the surrounding district.
Built for Expo 98
The bridge opened in 1998 for the Lisbon World Exposition, known as Expo 98. Its inauguration coincided with the 500th anniversary of Vasco da Gama’s discovery of the sea route to India. The project was intended to ease traffic on the 25 de Abril Bridge and support the development of eastern Lisbon.
At 12.3 kilometres long, the Vasco da Gama Bridge crosses the Tagus estuary. Around 10 kilometres of the structure lie over water. Its scale is most apparent from the Parque das Nações waterfront, where the bridge stretches away across the river.
Engineering across the estuary
Lisbon lies near a major fault line, so the bridge was designed to withstand an earthquake four times stronger than the 1755 Great Lisbon Earthquake. Its foundations extend as deep as 95 metres below sea level.
The structure is long enough that engineers had to account for the Earth’s curvature when aligning its pillars. The bridge also crosses an estuary that is home to pink flamingos and other migratory birds. Its lamps point inward and downward to limit light reaching the surrounding environment at night.
Where to view the bridge
The Parque das Nações promenade gives a ground-level view across the Tagus, with the bridge appearing to fade into the distance. The riverside cable car provides an elevated panorama of the crossing. For a higher vantage point, the Myriad by SANA hotel bar looks out over the structure.
The bridge is also part of the road network, and driving across it gives a sense of its length. If your route takes you into Lisbon from the north, a toll applies; travel southbound is free. For a bus journey between Lisbon Oriente and Setúbal, Bus 562 uses the Vasco da Gama Bridge. Road traffic can affect the trip, particularly at rush hour.
FAQ
How long is the Vasco da Gama Bridge?
It stretches 12.3 kilometres across the Tagus estuary, with around 10 kilometres over water.
Where can I see the bridge from shore?
Walk the Parque das Nações promenade for a view across the river. The riverside cable car offers an elevated panorama.
Is there a toll to cross the bridge?
Entering Lisbon heading north incurs a toll. Travelling south is free.
When is a good time to photograph the bridge?
Sunrise can silhouette the pillars. Misty mornings can partly obscure the bridge in fog.
