How many Nhat Le Bridges are there in Quang Binh? Latest Update 2026

As of 2026, there are three bridges named Nhat Le spanning the Nhat Le River in Dong Hoi, playing a vital role in traffic connectivity and coastal urban development.

• Nhat Le 1 Bridge (also known as the old Nhat Le Bridge) was completed in 2005, being the first bridge to connect the city center with Bao Ninh Peninsula.
• Nhat Le 2 Bridge was inaugurated in 2017, helping reduce traffic congestion and expanding development space towards the sea.
• Nhat Le 3 Bridge has now completed over 95% of its main structure, with a length of about 561.4 m and a width of 23.5 m. The decorative 3D LED lighting system on the bridge has been operated; however, the access roads at both ends are still being finalized due to site clearance delays. The project is expected to be officially put into use in 2026.

Before Nhat Le 1 Bridge was built, residents on both banks mainly traveled by ferry or took a detour via Quan Hau Bridge (inaugurated in 2000). The presence of the three Nhat Le bridges today marks a strong step forward in Dong Hoi's traffic infrastructure, while facilitating smooth connections from the city center to the Bao Ninh tourist area and the Nhat Le coastline.

Nhat Le River (ancient name Dai Uyen) dates back to the Ly Dynasty (around 1069-1075) and is a historical symbol of Quang Binh, playing an important role in resistance wars (Nhat Le Port was once a transfer point on the Ho Chi Minh Trail at sea). The Nhat Le bridges were built to replace passenger ferries and expand urban space.

Nhat Le 1 Bridge

Nhat Le 1 Bridge began construction in 2002 and was completed in 2004 with a total investment of about 260 billion VND. The bridge is 635 meters long and 12 meters wide, featuring 4 motor lanes and 2 pedestrian lanes. This was the first bridge to connect the two banks of the Nhat Le River, replacing previous ferry services.

• Cultural significance: Nhat Le 1 Bridge is a landscape highlight of Dong Hoi, especially when illuminated at night, attracting visitors to check in.
• The name “Nhat Lệ”: The name of the bridge is inspired by the Nhat Le River, meaning “sunlight and moonlight”, symbolizing the poetic beauty of Quang Binh.

Nhat Le 2 Bridge

Nhat Le 2 Bridge began construction in 2012 and was inaugurated in 2017, with a total investment of over 930 billion VND. The bridge is 515.2 meters long and 23.6 meters wide, featuring 6 motor lanes.

• Construction purpose: To relieve traffic pressure on Nhat Le 1 Bridge and meet the growing transport demand driven by tourism development at local destinations.
• Modern design: The bridge features an advanced lighting system, contributing to beautifying Dong Hoi's cityscape.

Nhat Le 3 Bridge 

Nhat Le 3 Bridge is a key project along Quang Binh's coastal road, with construction starting on January 8, 2023, and a total investment of 1,300 billion VND. By January 2026, the bridge reached 95-100% completion and officially lit up completely on January 23, 2026, although some access road sections still face land clearance issues. The bridge connects Luong Ninh Commune (Quang Ninh District) with Bao Ninh Commune (Dong Hoi City), contributing to completing the coastal traffic network. It is expected that the bridge will officially open to traffic entirely in 2026, boosting the tourism economy of the Bao Ninh area, home to many luxury resorts. 

• Technical design: The bridge is built permanently with steel and prestressed reinforced concrete, featuring a arch main bridge structure and simple-span access bridges. This is the first steel arch bridge in Quang Binh, using modern self-compacting concrete.
• Significance: Nhat Le 3 Bridge will connect the coastal road with National Highway 1A and the Ho Chi Minh Highway, driving tourism development, marine economy, and strengthening national defense and security.

The Nhat Le bridges not only play an important role in transport and economic development of Quang Binh, but also carry profound cultural values, symbolizing the transformation and growth of this region through various stages.

Nhat Le Bridge is not only an important traffic project but also an exciting destination, offering visitors unique experiences amidst natural beauty and local cultural interplay.

• Watching sunset and sunrise over the river: From Nhat Le 1 or 2 Bridge, you can admire the winding river, white sand dunes, fishing boats, and Nhat Le beach in the distance. In the evening, artistic lighting systems (especially Bridge 3 with 3D LEDs) create a shimmering, romantic landscape.
• Strolling along the riverbank and parks: Both sides of the bridge feature green parks and stone benches, ideal for jogging, cycling, picnicking, or photo taking. Near Bridge 1 is the Mother Suot Monument.
• Combining with beach tourism: After crossing the bridge, you can easily reach Nhat Le and Bao Ninh beaches (fine white sand, clear water) or traditional fishing villages. Many tourists combine visiting the bridges + eating fresh seafood + watching the sunset.
• Modern night experience: With Nhat Le 3 Bridge (when completed), you will be able to admire 3D light shows.

With stunning scenery and exciting surrounding activities, Nhat Le Bridge is certainly an unmissable location, bringing unforgettable memories to visitors coming to Quang Binh.

When visiting Nhat Le Bridge, tourists should note several important points to fully enjoy the beauty of this landmark while ensuring safety throughout the trip.

• Ideal time: Late afternoon to evening (17:00-22:00) to admire the lights and avoid hot weather. Avoid peak hours (early morning or rush hour) if traveling by motorbike/car.
• Traffic safety: Obey traffic signs, do not stop vehicles on the bridge to take photos (especially on Bridges 1 and 2). When Bridge 3 opens to traffic, pay attention to unfinished access roads.
• Weather and health: Quang Binh is hot and sunny; bring sunscreen and drinking water. During rainy season (September-November), river levels may rise, so check forecasts before going.
• Environmental protection: Do not litter, fish, or swim under the bridge (strong currents). Maintain general cleanliness to preserve the beauty of the city's icon.
• Itinerary combinations: Connect with nearby spots such as Dong Hoi Citadel, Nhat Le Beach, Phong Nha – Ke Bang National Park (~1 hour away). If traveling in a group, rent electric bicycles or take a Nhat Le river bus tour.

Thus, by 2026, the Nhat Le bridge system not only plays a transportation connectivity role but also stands as key architectural and tourism highlights of Quang Binh. Each bridge holds a distinct location, meaning, and perspective, contributing to enhancing the urban appearance along the romantic Nhat Le River. More than modern transportation structures, these bridges serve as attractive check-in spots in Dong Hoi city tours, where visitors can behold the poetic beauty of the Nhat Le River at gentle sunset or when city lights turn on. If you have the chance to visit Dong Hoi, don't just drive across the bridge—stop, feel, take a few pictures, and spend time exploring riverside spots, enjoying fresh seafood, and listening to the story of a city changing day by day beside the peaceful Nhat Le River.