Discover the most beautiful bridges in Croatia – from ancient stone spans to unique double-level structures. Explore Croatia’s rivers through their most iconic and historic crossings.
Croatian rivers are not only natural wonders – they are also lined with architectural jewels that span across them. From ancient stone footbridges to elegant arched crossings, these structures are more than just infrastructure: they are stories carved in stone and wood, harmonizing with the landscape and often steeped in legends, history, and tradition. In this guide to the most beautiful bridges in Croatia, we explore river crossings that reflect the country’s rich heritage and breathtaking scenery.
1. Bridge on the Dobra River near Novigrad
At the entrance to the picturesque town of Novigrad na Dobri, a stone bridge with harmonious arches stretches gracefully over the calm Dobra River. Behind it rises the imposing Frankopan Castle, turning this spot into a true postcard of continental Croatia. Built in 1730 as part of the Karolina Road connecting Karlovac with Bakar and Rijeka, it is one of the oldest preserved river bridges in Croatia – a beautiful blend of technical heritage and natural charm.
2. Bridge on the Zrmanja River near Kaštel Žegarski
In the rugged karst landscape of northern Dalmatia, the Zrmanja River cuts through deep canyons. Near Kaštel Žegarski, a simple yet magical stone bridge crosses the river, perfectly complementing its wild surroundings. A beloved pause point for kayakers and adventurers, the bridge stands like a natural extension of the rock itself. More about the Zrmanja River
3. Bridge at Sopot Waterfall, Istria
Hidden in the forested heart of Istria, the Sopot waterfall tumbles beneath an old stone bridge. After rainfall, the scene transforms into a fairytale cascade, with water bursting over the cliffs beneath the modest but picturesque crossing – a perfect harmony of natural force and rustic craftsmanship.
4. Kude’s Bridge on the Krupa River
Legend has it that a man named Kude built this stone bridge with 12 arches to reach his beloved on the opposite bank. Today, Kude’s Bridge remains one of the most romantic spots in Croatia – a hand-built crossing over the emerald waters and travertine barriers of the stunning Krupa River.
5. Bridge on the Tounjčica River near Tounj
In the dramatic canyon of the Tounjčica River, Croatia’s only two-level stone bridge stands as a true architectural rarity and the iconic symbol of Tounj. The first level was built in 1775 during the construction of the historic Jozefina Road, inspired by ancient Roman design. In 1836, a second level was added, giving the bridge its final, majestic form. Once adorned with statues and commemorative plaques, it remains a unique monument of Croatian bridge architecture.
6. Bridge on the Lika River near Kosinj
In the mysterious Kosinj valley, where the Lika River sometimes disappears into the depths of the karst, a majestic stone bridge links the villages of Gornji and Donji Kosinj. Designed around 1925 and completed in 1936, it was built using traditional Croatian dry stone techniques. The 70-meter-long bridge features elegant arches and unique relief openings that ease the pressure of floodwaters – a resilient structure that stands unchanged in a landscape that constantly shifts.
7. French Bridge on the Krčić River
Near the source of the Krka River, the Krčić flows beneath a charming old stone bridge known locally as the French Bridge. Though its exact origins remain a topic of debate, its design reflects military precision and romantic desolation – a solitary sentinel over the untamed Zagora landscape.
8. Old Bridge on the Kupa River in Sisak
In the heart of Sisak, the Old Bridge spans the Kupa River with elegance and strength. Built between 1929 and 1934 under the direction of engineer Milivoj Frković, this 400-meter-long bridge is a masterpiece of early 20th-century Croatian civil engineering. Constructed of concrete but faced with red brick and carved stone, it blends urban sophistication with monumental presence. It remains one of the city’s proudest symbols.
9. Slab Bridge on the Cetina River near Vrlika
Near the source of the Cetina River, not far from the town of Vrlika, lies a modest stone slab bridge surrounded by greenery and mountains. This simple crossing, made of large stone slabs, leads to the ancient Church of St. Spas and embodies the timeless spirit of inland Dalmatia.
10. Bridge on the Cetina River near Panj
Located in the village of Panj near Hrvace, this 65-meter-long stone bridge, built in 1905, is one of the longest of its kind on Croatian rivers. As the first road bridge south of the Peruća Dam, it was fully restored in recent years under the care of conservators. With its peaceful surroundings and subdued beauty, the bridge is a favorite stop for cyclists and travelers – a meditative space where time seems to pause.
11. Pavića Bridge on the Cetina River near Zadvarje
One of the most elegant bridges in Dalmatia, Pavića Bridge near Zadvarje is a gem of vernacular construction. Its stone arches blend seamlessly with the surrounding cliffs and canyon. Built to endure and to beautify, it remains one of the most photogenic places along the Cetina River.
12. Balački Bridge on the Cetina River near Vinalić
South of Vrlika, near the village of Vinalić, the Balački Bridge (also known as Balečki) spans the Cetina with three harmonious arches. Built in 1907 by local craftsmen using dark stone, this 45-meter-long structure was carefully restored in 2014. Surrounded by archaeological sites from prehistory and antiquity, it reflects both engineering skill and cultural continuity in the Cetina region.
Now you know – the Cetina River is home to some of the most beautiful and timeless bridges in all of Croatia.
Know another beautiful bridge?
Croatian rivers hide many more crossings – some are just humble stone slabs, others are grand structures that have endured for centuries. If you know of a bridge that deserves to be on this list, let us know – because rivers connect us, just like bridges do.
