The Most Beautiful Bridges in the Netherlands

1. Erasmusbrug, Rotterdam

The Erasmusbrug in Rotterdam is perhaps the most iconic bridge in the Netherlands. With its elegant, asymmetric construction and sleek cables, it's not for nothing called 'De Zwaan' (The Swan). This bridge connects the north and south of Rotterdam and is a favourite among photographers thanks to its modern architecture and impressive play of lines.

Best photo spots: The Erasmusbrug can be seen on the horizon from far away. These are in our opinion the best spots to capture this icon:

• Wilhelminapier: Perfect for a wide perspective with the Rotterdam skyline in the background.
• Boompjeskade: Ideal for reflections in the water, especially at sunrise or sunset.
• From the bridge itself: A dynamic viewpoint to capture the height and structure of the bridge.

Capturing the Erasmusbrug is a must for every photographer visiting Rotterdam. Whether you opt for an artistic abstract composition or a cityscape with the skyline, this famous bridge never disappoints.

2. Zeelandbrug, Zeeland

The Zeelandbrug in Zeeland is a dream for lovers of minimalist and symmetrical photography. At a length of no less than 5,022 meters, it is the longest and one of the most famous bridges in the Netherlands. The endless repetition of pillars and clean lines make it particularly photogenic, especially in combination with the serene water surface of the Oosterschelde.

Best photo spots: Photographing this long bridge doesn't produce the best images everywhere. These are in our opinion the best locations to photograph the Zeelandbrug:

• From the shore near Colijnsplaat: Here you can choose a low viewpoint to make the bridge look imposing.
• From Zierikzee: Perfect for symmetrical compositions where the bridge disappears into the distance.
• With a drone: The length and shape of the bridge come out beautifully from the air.

By playing with lines and perspective, you can transform the Zeelandbrug into an artistic masterpiece. With the right exposure and settings, you can create an almost surreal photo of this impressive structure.

3. Sint-Servaasbrug, Maastricht

The Sint-Servaasbrug in Maastricht is the oldest bridge in the Netherlands and a true gem for photographers. Located in the heart of Maastricht, this medieval bridge connects the charming Wyck district and the city centre across the Maas. With its characteristic stone arches, rustic appearance, and reflections in the water, it offers countless photographic possibilities, both by day and in the evening.

Best photo spots: This Limburg icon is a wonderful subject. Have you ever taken a photo from these top locations:

• From the quay in Wyck: Perfect for capturing the bridge with the Maastricht skyline in the background.
• Hoge Brug: Offers a beautiful view over the Sint-Servaasbrug and its symmetrical arches.
• From the water: Take a boat trip or use a low angle on the Maas for unique perspectives.

Whether you want to create a romantic cityscape or a detail-rich architectural photo, the Sint-Servaasbrug offers endless possibilities. Thanks to the mix of history, water, and light, this bridge is a must for every photographer in Maastricht.

4. Waalbrug, Nijmegen

The Waalbrug in Nijmegen is an icon with a rich history and a beautiful play of lines. The steel arch construction, opened in 1936, offers impressive architectural forms excellently suited for both landscape and detail photography. Located over the Waal, this old bridge forms a perfect composition.

Best photo spots: Capturing both the arch of the Waalbrug and the historic centre of Nijmegen is best done from these locations:

• Valkhofpark: Here you get a panoramic view of the bridge, especially beautiful at sunset.
• Ooypoort: Ideal for a low viewpoint to emphasise the imposing arch of the bridge.
• From the bridge itself: For dynamic photos with the traffic and the Waal in frame.

With its strong lines and historical value, the Waalbrug is a great place to capture the power of architecture and the dynamics of a river landscape.

5. Magere Brug, Amsterdam

The Magere Brug is one of the most atmospheric bridges in Amsterdam and a beloved spot for photographers. This classic wooden drawbridge, originally built in 1691, exudes authentic charm. Especially in the evening, when it is illuminated by hundreds of small lights, a magical image is created that is perfect for night photography.

Best photo spots: Whether you want to capture the Magere Brug in daylight or darkness, these are in our opinion the best photo spots:

• From the Amstelkade: Here you have a wide overview of the bridge with the Amstel as a reflecting element.
• On the bridge itself: For intimate street photography and atmospheric detail shots.
• From a canal boat: A unique perspective where the bridge is framed by the city.

Whether you want to capture a romantic cityscape or an atmospheric evening portrait, the Magere Brug offers endless possibilities for both beginners and experienced photographers.

6. Pythonbrug, Amsterdam

The Pythonbrug, officially called the Hoge Brug, is one of the most striking modern bridges in the Netherlands. With its bright red colour and undulating shape, it almost seems to dance over the water. This pedestrian bridge, located in the Eastern Docklands of Amsterdam, offers photographers a unique play of lines and a dynamic subject for architectural and abstract photography.

Best photo spots: The Pythonbrug is a bridge that brings out your creativity, and that is best expressed from these locations:

• From the quay at Sporenburg: A low viewpoint accentuates the undulating shape of the bridge.
• On the bridge itself: Experiment with perspective by capturing the curve up close.
• With a drone: The winding shape comes out best from above.

With its unique design and vibrant colour, the Pythonbrug in Amsterdam is a perfect subject for those who love creative compositions and graphic photography.

7. John Frostbrug, Arnhem

The John Frostbrug is not only an impressive span over the Rhine, but also a historic icon. This special bridge played a crucial role during the Battle of Arnhem in 1944 and is named after Lieutenant Colonel John Dutton Frost, who tried to defend the bridge with his troops. For photographers, the famous bridge offers a powerful play of lines and a story you can capture in your image.

Best photo spots: The John Frostbrug is a worldwide favourite due to its rich history. These are in our opinion the best spots to capture it:

• From the Rijnkade: Here you can capture the bridge with its reflection in the water.
• From the south bank: This offers a dynamic view of the bridge with the city of Arnhem in the background.
• On the bridge itself: Perfect for detail shots of the steel structure and road surface.

The John Frostbrug is more than an architectural feat. It's a place where history and photography come together. With the right angle and lighting, you can create powerful, memorable images here.

8. Blauwbrug, Amsterdam

The Blauwbrug is one of the most stately bridges in Amsterdam and a delight for every photographer's eye. Inspired by the Pont Neuf in Paris, this Dutch bridge has beautiful lanterns, ornate details, and a royal appearance. Located over the Amstel, it forms a magnificent backdrop for city photography, both by day and in the evening.

Best photo spots: Whether you prefer overview shots or want to capture the details, there are plenty of ways to beautifully frame the Blauwbrug. We list the best photo spots for you:

• From the Waterlooplein: Here you get a beautiful overview of the bridge with the Amstel and canal houses in the background.
• On the bridge itself: Ideal for detail photography of the decorated pillars and lanterns.
• From a canal boat: This offers a unique perspective and emphasises the elegance of the bridge.

The Blauwbrug is a perfect mix of architecture, history, and city life. Whether you're looking for atmospheric night photos or classic cityscapes, this bridge offers endless possibilities.

9. Van Brienenoordbrug, Rotterdam

The Van Brienenoordbrug in Rotterdam is the largest and one of the busiest bridges in the Netherlands. This imposing arch bridge spans the Nieuwe Maas and is an important traffic hub. For photographers, the bridge offers an impressive industrial character, beautiful play of lines, and a panoramic view of the Rotterdam skyline.

Best photo spots: The Brienenoordbrug can be photographed in various ways. These are a few places where you have a good view of the bridge:

• Kralingse Plas: Here you have a beautiful view of the bridge and the Rotterdam skyline.
• From the bank near Feijenoord: Perfect for detail shots of the steel structure.
• On the bridge itself: For dynamic photos of the traffic and the vast water surface.

Thanks to its impressive scale and industrial appearance, the Van Brienenoordbrug is a must for lovers of architectural and urban photography. With the right technique you can capture spectacular images here, both by day and in the evening.

10. Moerdijkbrug, Brabant

The Moerdijkbrug, an important connection between North Brabant and South Holland, is a masterpiece of symmetry and industrial photography. This famous bridge actually consists of several parallel bridges: a railway bridge and a road bridge. The robust steel construction and long, straight lines make it perfect for clean compositions and impressive perspective shots.

Best photo spots: There are several places where you can photograph the Moerdijkbrug well — from a wide perspective to a close-up of the structure. These are the best photo spots:

• Bank on the Dordrecht side: Here you get a wide perspective with the bridge disappearing into the distance.
• Along the A16 near Moerdijk: Perfect for detail shots of the structure and traffic movements.
• From a boat on the Hollands Diep: This offers a unique low viewpoint where the bridge looks even more imposing.

The Moerdijkbrug is a textbook example of functional architecture that comes to life photographically. With the right technique and composition, you can capture impressive, almost abstract images here.

Head out and capture a Dutch bridge!

Dutch bridges are ideal subjects to photograph, but how do you ensure your images really stand out? First think about your composition: use leading lines to draw the viewer into the image and look for interesting viewpoints, such as a low perspective to make the bridge look more imposing. Experiment with different focal lengths. A wide-angle lens (16-35mm) works well for sweeping overview photos, while a telephoto lens (70-200mm) helps isolate details and repeating patterns.

Want a dynamic effect? Use a long shutter speed and a tripod to capture passing traffic as light trails or to make the water surface silky smooth with an ND filter. Finally: photograph at different times of day. During golden hour the bridge gets a warm glow, while the blue hour is ideal for atmospheric evening shots with city lighting. With these techniques you can capture any bridge at its most beautiful!