New Europe Bridge, Cable-stayed bridge between Calafat and Vidin, Bulgaria-Romania.
The New Europe Bridge is a cable-stayed bridge connecting Calafat in Romania with Vidin in Bulgaria across the Danube River. It handles both road and rail traffic, with its main span measuring roughly 180 meters and a roadway width of about 32 meters.
The two countries signed an agreement in 2000 to build this crossing, but funding difficulties postponed construction for over a decade. Work finally began in 2013, creating the first direct connection between these two riverside towns.
The bridge strengthens transportation connections between Romania and Bulgaria, forming part of the Pan-European transport corridor linking Dresden to Istanbul and Thessaloniki.
Expect possible delays when crossing, as traffic is regulated between the two countries. It is better to travel at quieter times rather than during peak hours when queues can form on either side.
The bridge was constructed with roughly 27 openings to allow large river vessels to pass underneath. These many gaps give it a distinctive look when viewed from below and make it visually different from simpler bridge designs.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
