When we think of iconic landmarks in Turkey, we often picture ancient ruins or bustling bazaars. But if we head to the Marmara region, we’ll find something ultra-modern that will blow us away — the Osmangazi Bridge.

This stunning suspension bridge stretches across the Gulf of İzmit and connects Gebze on the north to Yalova on the south. It’s more than just a bridge — it’s an engineering marvel, a road trip shortcut, and a scenic spot all in one.

How to Get There: Easy Routes by Car and Bus

We can reach the Osmangazi Bridge most easily by car via the O-5 Highway, which runs between Istanbul and Izmir. The bridge is right along this route. From Istanbul’s center, it takes about 1.5 hours (around 90 km) to reach the bridge by car, depending on traffic.

If we don’t drive, there are long-distance buses from Istanbul’s Esenler Bus Terminal or Pendik heading to Bursa or Izmir — and they cross the bridge too. While public transportation doesn’t stop directly at the bridge, many scenic tours by private operators offer stopovers or viewpoints nearby.

Is There an Entrance Fee?

There’s no entrance fee for visiting or viewing the bridge. However, if we’re driving across it, we need to pay a toll. As of 2025, the standard toll for cars is approximately $2.10 USD (₺65.65). Larger vehicles pay higher rates. The toll is automatically collected using HGS or OGS systems, and for tourists renting cars, fees are typically included in the rental bill or charged afterward.

Best Time to Visit the Bridge

The bridge is open 24/7 year-round, but the most scenic and comfortable times to visit are during spring (April–June) and autumn (September–October). The weather is mild, and the skies are usually clear — perfect for those dreamy sunset shots.

For photography lovers, we recommend visiting during early morning or late afternoon when the light hits the water just right. Sunset is especially breathtaking as the bridge glows against the golden Marmara Sea.

What to See and Do Around the Bridge

Although walking on the bridge is not allowed, there are great spots nearby for soaking in the views:

- Dilovası Observation Deck – A popular viewpoint on the northern side with panoramic views of the bridge.

- Altınova Seaside Park – Located on the southern shore, this peaceful waterfront park offers walking paths and small cafés.

- Topçular Ferry Pier – Just a short drive away, this spot lets us see the bridge from sea level and watch ferries glide across the gulf.

If we’re planning a longer road trip, we can easily explore:

- Yalova’s thermal springs

- Iznik Lake, famous for its handmade ceramic tiles

- Or continue to Bursa, a historical city and UNESCO World Heritage Site

Travel Tips to Make the Most of Your Visit

1. There’s no pedestrian access, so the best views are from a car or nearby viewpoints.

2. Use toll-enabled rental cars to avoid issues — ask the rental company about HGS/OGS tags.

3. Fill up your tank before heading to the bridge — gas stations are limited in certain areas of the O-5.

4. Bring a camera or drone if you want stunning wide-angle bridge shots (drones may require a permit).

5. Avoid public holidays — the highway and bridge can get quite crowded.

Fast Facts to Impress Your Travel Buddies

- The bridge opened in 2016 and is named after Osman Gazi, the founder of the Ottoman Empire.

- With a main span of 1,550 meters (5,090 feet), it’s among the world’s longest suspension bridges.

- It shortened the Istanbul–Izmir travel time by over 3 hours.

This Is More Than a Bridge — It’s a Road Trip Highlight

Osmangazi Bridge isn’t just for drivers. Even if we don’t cross it, it’s worth visiting for its sheer size and beautiful setting. It’s where Turkey’s modern infrastructure meets natural beauty, and it gives any Marmara-region road trip a cinematic moment.

Let’s Hear from You!

Have you crossed the Osmangazi Bridge or are you planning to? Share your stories and favorite stops along the way! We love hearing from fellow travelers and discovering new places together — so let’s keep exploring the world, one breathtaking bridge at a time.