Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge – Second Bosphorus Crossing

The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge, also known as the Second Bosphorus Bridge, is one of the major suspension bridges connecting the European and Asian sides of Istanbul. It spans the Bosphorus Strait and plays a crucial role in the city’s transportation network.

History of the Bridge

Construction of the bridge began in 1985 and it was officially opened in 1988.

It was built to reduce the growing traffic load on the first Bosphorus Bridge and to support Istanbul’s rapidly expanding infrastructure.

The bridge is named after Sultan Mehmed II (Mehmed the Conqueror), who conquered Constantinople in 1453.

Structure and Engineering

The Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge is a modern suspension bridge with impressive engineering features.

• Total length: 1,510 meters

• Main span: 1,090 meters

• Width: 39 meters

• Height above sea level: approximately 64 meters

It connects Hisarüstü (European side) with Kavacık (Asian side).

Importance and Function

The bridge is one of the busiest transportation routes in Istanbul.

It is essential for:

• daily commuting between continents

• commercial transportation

• reducing traffic congestion

It serves as a key connection within the Trans-European Motorway network.

Views and Experience

The bridge offers impressive views of:

• the Bosphorus Strait

• surrounding hills and neighborhoods

• the Istanbul skyline

Although pedestrian access is restricted, the bridge can be viewed from many scenic points along the Bosphorus.

Quick Facts

Location: Istanbul
Opened: 1988
Type: Suspension bridge
Connects: Europe and Asia
Length: 1,510 meters

Best Time to Visit

Evening hours are ideal when the bridge is illuminated and the Bosphorus reflects the city lights.

How to Reach

The bridge can be viewed from several locations:

Rumeli Hisari
One of the closest and best viewpoints on the European side.

Anadolu Hisari
A scenic location on the Asian side.

Emirgan
Offers beautiful coastal views of the Bosphorus.

Nearby Attractions

Rumeli Fortress
A 15th-century Ottoman fortress built to control the Bosphorus before the conquest of Constantinople.

Anadolu Fortress
An earlier Ottoman stronghold located directly across the strait.

Emirgan Park
A large historic park known for its gardens, walking paths, and seasonal tulip displays.

Emirgan
Offers beautiful coastal views of the Bosphorus.

Bosphorus Strait
The iconic waterway dividing Europe and Asia, famous for cruises and waterfront views.

FAQ

When was the Fatih Sultan Mehmet Bridge built?
It was completed and opened in 1988.

What does the bridge connect?
It connects the European and Asian sides of Istanbul.

Can pedestrians use the bridge?
No, pedestrian access is generally not allowed.

Why is it important?
It is one of the main transportation routes connecting the two continents.

Things to Know Before Visiting

• It is the second bridge built over the Bosphorus

• Connects Hisarüstü and Kavacık

• One of the busiest bridges in Istanbul

• Best views from Rumeli Hisarı and Emirgan