Brian PaulThe world’s smallest bridges prove that size is no barrier to significance. While towering suspension bridges span vast waterways, these tiny structures connect communities, countries, and even time zones with remarkable efficiency.
From a 19-foot international bridge that changes time zones to a Guinness-record-holding covered bridge, these miniature marvels offer unique travel experiences and fascinating histories. Here are 10 of the smallest bridges in the world.
Top 10 Smallest Bridges in the World
1. El Marco International Bridge (Spain-Portugal Border)
The El Marco International Bridge is widely considered the world’s smallest international bridge, measuring just 19 feet (6 meters) long and 4.7 feet (1.45 meters) wide. This tiny wooden structure connects the Spanish village of El Marco with the Portuguese village of Várzea Grande.
Despite its size, it offers a unique “time travel” experience—Spain operates on Central European Time (CET), while Portugal follows Greenwich Mean Time (GMT), meaning crossing this bridge changes your watch by a full hour . Originally built by locals centuries ago for smugglers trading coffee, olives, wine, and knives, the bridge was reconstructed in 2008 with EU funding . It is open only to pedestrians and cyclists.
2. Latchford Covered Bridge (Ontario, Canada)
This tiny covered bridge in Latchford, Ontario, holds the distinction of being listed in the Guinness Book of World Records as the world’s shortest covered bridge. The bridge measures only 11 feet 3 inches (3.4 meters) along the roof ridge, though the water crossing itself covers just 4 feet (1.2 meters) across a concrete culvert.
Built in 1992, the bridge accommodates one lane of traffic and one lane of pedestrians . Latchford proudly promotes itself with the slogan “The Best Little Town by a Dam Site!”
3. Zavikon Island Bridge (Canada-USA Border)
The bridge on Zavikon Island in the Thousand Islands archipelago is often mistakenly called the world’s shortest international bridge, but it is actually over three times longer than the El Marco Bridge . The bridge spans approximately 10 metres (32 feet) and links two tiny islands, one in Canada and one in the United States.
The owner of Zavikon Island also owns the adjacent US island, effectively living in two countries simultaneously. This bridge is frequently cited in many rankings as the world’s shortest international bridge, though it does not hold the official title. Some sources also suggest that both islands may actually be within Canadian territory, making the border crossing more of a charming story than an official boundary.
4. Putney Bridge (Harrow, UK) – Shortest Bridge Over the Thames
One of the shortest bridges over the River Thames in the UK, Putney Bridge is not to be confused with its more famous London namesake. This tiny bridge serves as a local crossing in Harrow, spanning the Thames with a much shorter footprint than the grand bridges of central London.
5. Bridge of Sighs (Oxford, UK)
The Bridge of Sighs in Oxford is a tiny footbridge that connects two parts of Hertford College over New College Lane. While not the shortest bridge in the world, its small size and famous name make it a notable entry. This ornate bridge is one of the most photographed landmarks in Oxford, despite its compact dimensions.
6. The Plank Bridge (Various Locations)
Many small, informal bridges across the world consist of little more than a wooden plank over a stream. One Reddit user even joked about crossing a plank over a creek at the border between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland, which was “a lot shorter” than the El Marco Bridge . While not officially recognised, these simple plank bridges represent the smallest possible human-made crossings.
7. Pebble Bridge (Various Locations)
In many rural areas, stones or pebbles placed across shallow streams serve as informal bridges. These structures are often just a few feet long and have been used for centuries by locals to cross small waterways without getting their feet wet.
8. Footbridge over the Abrilongo River (Spain-Portugal Border)
The original wooden crossing that preceded the El Marco International Bridge was even more primitive—just a few wooden planks laid across the narrow Abrilongo River . Locals would rebuild this makeshift bridge whenever it was washed away by floods. This ancestor of the modern bridge was perhaps the smallest international crossing in history.
9. Mill Bridge (Various Locations)
Many small mill bridges across Europe and North America were built to provide access to watermills. These tiny structures often span narrow streams and are just a few metres long. They have been preserved in many regions as historical landmarks, showcasing the industrial heritage of local communities.
10. Miniature Footbridge in Japanese Gardens
Japanese gardens often feature miniature wooden footbridges designed for aesthetic purposes. These tiny bridges are sometimes just a metre or two long and are meant to symbolise the transition from the mundane to the spiritual, rather than serving any practical transport function. They represent the smallest intentional bridge designs in existence.
Comparison Table
| No | Bridge Name | Location | Approx. Length | Key Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | El Marco International Bridge | Spain‑Portugal | 6 m (19 ft) | Crosses two countries and time zones |
| 2 | Latchford Covered Bridge | Ontario, Canada | 3.4 m (11 ft 3 in) | Guinness World Record: shortest covered bridge |
| 3 | Zavikon Island Bridge | Canada‑USA | ~10 m (32 ft) | Connects two islands in two countries |
| 4 | Putney Bridge | Harrow, UK | Small | Shortest bridge over the Thames |
| 5 | Bridge of Sighs | Oxford, UK | Small | Ornate footbridge, famous name |
| 6 | The Plank Bridge | Various | ~1–3 m | Simple plank over a stream |
| 7 | Pebble Bridge | Various | ~1–2 m | Stones placed across shallow water |
| 8 | Abrilongo River Crossing | Spain‑Portugal | ~3 m | Original wooden planks, no longer standing |
| 9 | Mill Bridge | Various | ~2–5 m | Historic mill access bridges |
| 10 | Japanese Garden Bridge | Various | ~1–2 m | Decorative miniature bridges |
Visiting Small Bridges
Before visiting any of these tiny bridges, research the best time to visit and check if they are accessible to the public. For international bridges like El Marco, ensure you have valid travel documents, as you will be crossing between countries.
Arrive early in the morning, especially during tourist seasons, as these small attractions can become crowded.
Bring your camera—these bridges often offer unique photo opportunities with historical significance. Be aware of local regulations; some bridges may have weight limits or restrictions on vehicle access.
For the Zavikon Island Bridge, note that it is on private property and may not be open to the public without permission.
Note that all information, including access and opening hours, is subject to change. It is always best to verify the latest details with official tourism sources before visiting.