Crossing a bridge feels like leaving the past behind to move ahead into the future. Bridge signifies change - and what better way to enter into the most significant transition of life than proposing at the very spot that carries the essence of it.

Bridges not only connect two landmasses but are also famous for locking love hearts. Some of the most romantic proposals have been enacted on bridges and others have been made more popular after favorite love scenes from movies. Remember the scene from the Amazing Spider-Man 2, where Spiderman (Andrew Garfield) and Gwen Stacy (Emma Stone) share a passionate kiss on Manhattan Bridge, East River in New York, or the one from the movie Befikre where Dharam (Ranveer Singh) and Shyra (Vaani Kapoor) met at Alexandre III Bridge in Paris? Yes, bridges symbolise a high point for love to bloom or to create an everlasting bond.

Where some bridges are famous for love-lock destinations, others are known for their exemplary architectural feat of engineering. Many lives are lost building the bridges. However, nearing the end of its construction, what it stands for is a symbol of connection and union. Be it the world’s longest suspension bridge Akashi-Kaikyo Bridge in Japan, or the Neo-gothic style-inspired Tower Bridge, they carry with them an otherworldly feel with their brilliant architectural designs.

So, here’s to the aesthetically appealing bridges, no less than a magical place to get down on one knee.

Pont Des Arts, Paris

Internationally acclaimed as The Bridge of Romance, Pont Des Arts in Paris was constructed in 1802-1804. The love-lock bridge of Paris, as it is famously known, attracts lovebirds from all over the world. Famed for its love-lock tradition, at one point, the bridge was heavily adorned with the padlocks affixed there by the couples visiting this place to turn their love into forever. However, in the year 2015, the love locks were removed from the bridge connecting the Louvre and the Institut de France across the Seine, owing to the damage the heavy metals were inflicting on the bridge. Replacing the locks is graffiti embedded with the message of love and hope. Offering a panoramic view, proposing at this spot overlooking the iconic Eiffel Tower can never get old.

Tower Bridge, London, England

Built over the River Thames, this majestic bridge offers a spectacular view to propose to your significant other. The unbeatable romantic setting makes it a favourite spot amongst couples to take a stroll together. One would think that they have been transported to medieval times as the neo-Gothic styled bridge is designed in such a way to add an old-rustic charm even when it is only 127 years old. The bascule and suspension bridge was designed by Sir Horace Jones. Over 50 designs were rejected before the current design was chosen in 1884. It took eight years to complete this impressive bridge, and officially it opened to visitors on June 30, 1894.

Ponte di Rialto Bridge, Venice, Italy

When in Venice, make sure to visit the Rialto Bridge, a stone footbridge over the Grand Canal. Built in the year 1181 and designed by Nicolò Barattieri, Rialto Bridge is the oldest surviving bridge and is still in use today. The stone arch bridge is an architectural marvel that has been rebuilt and restored several times in the past. Antonio da Ponte, Venetian architect, and engineer, along with his nephew Antonia Contin are credited with rebuilding Rialto Bridge. Row along the water with the scenic vistas and enjoy the refreshing views, feel the breezy air, or go for the gondola ride that it offers. A romantic getaway in Venice is incomplete without making it to the bridge and witnessing its brave design, you may dare to profess your love for the one.

Charles Bridge, Prague, Czech Republic

Charles Bridge, a historic and iconic landmark of Prague, is considered one of the most beautiful Gothic-style buildings in the world. The construction of the bridge began in 1357 took 45 years to complete. Over the years, the constant restoration and renovation led to its eclectic mix of Gothic and Baroque architectural design. Thousands of tourists visit the bridge standing in its full glory over the river Vltava. Nothing can beat this picture-perfect place that has centuries-old palaces, majestic castles, and the dreamiest landscapes. Offering spectacular sceneries to bewitch any soul, this place is the ultimate destination for the knee-down proposal.

Pulteney Bridge, Bath, UK

The coming of Pulteney Bridge into existence started with a grand vision to create a town adjoining Bath by William Johnstone Pulteney, a Scottish advocate, who named the bridge after his wife, Frances Pulteney. The bridge was designed by Robert Adam, a British architect in the Palladian style, and it opened in 1774. Pulteney Bridge over the River Avon offers a picturesque view of its surroundings. Pay close attention, and you can hear the water sing. The setting is just incredible for one to ask for a hand. Walking along the riverways, one will come across numerous storefronts, cafes and eateries. However, if you wish to make it more romantic, wait till the sun sets, for the bridge lights up at night, offering an impressive and cinematic view.