Karavolades stairs, Stone staircase in Fira, Greece
Karavolades stairs is a stone staircase in Fira connecting the Old Port to the town above, winding through the cliffside terrain. The route covers approximately 600 steps in a steep climb or descent.
This important pathway was built in the 18th century to connect the port with residential areas above. The construction reflects Santorini's long history of maritime trade and settlements on the cliffside.
The stone steps show traditional Greek building methods, displaying how local builders adapted to the steep terrain of the caldera.
The climb or descent is physically demanding and takes 30 to 45 minutes depending on fitness level. Those preferring not to walk can use alternative transport options available at both ends.
Beside tourists, donkeys share this pathway daily, carrying loads between the port and town. These animal companions are a familiar sight on the steps, representing how the route has been used for centuries.
Location: Fira
GPS coordinates: 36.41907,25.42923
Latest update: December 6, 2025 19:08
Stairs serve not only to overcome elevation changes but often rank among the notable structures of their cities. The Spanish Steps in Rome with its 135 steps has connected two districts since 1725 and became a meeting point for locals and visitors. In Montmartre, 222 steps lead to the Basilica of Sacré-Cœur, while Jacob's Ladder on Saint Helena with 699 steps forms one of the longest straight stairways in the world. The selection includes various construction types: spiral staircases in medieval towers, rock-carved ascents to temples and fortresses, and modern outdoor stairs made of concrete and steel. Some stairs were built for practical reasons like the steps to Table Mountain in Cape Town, others as part of religious sites like the stairs to the Golden Rock in Myanmar. Each staircase tells the story of the engineering skills of its era and the people who use it daily.
Santorini cable car
62 m
Three Bells of Fira
481 m
Museum of Prehistoric Thera
415 m
Skaros Rock
1.8 km
Panagia Episkopi
5.6 km
St. John the Baptist Cathedral, Santorini
215 m
Archaeological museum of Thera
263 m
Moni Profiti Ilia (Santorini)
6.4 km
Profitis Illas
6.5 km
Anastasi Church (Oia)
6.7 km
Cathedral of Candlemas of the Lord
322 m
Church of Panagias Kalou, Kouloumbos
5.2 km
Naos Agiou Stefanou
7.2 km
St. Nikolaos Church (Oia)
6.8 km
Citadel of Oia
6.8 km
Agios Nikolaos Monastery
1.2 km
Le Rocher sacré (Santorin)
7.1 km
St George church (Oia)
6.3 km
Church of Agioi Apostoloi, Pyrgos Kallistis
5.4 km
Kasteli tou Pyrgou
4.4 km
Aghios Nikolaos Marmarites
6.4 km
Kamari 1
7.1 km
Kasteli tou Emporeiou
6.9 km
Argyros Mansion
2.8 km
Castle of Skaros
1.8 km
Tower of Goulas in Emporio
6.8 km
Megaron Gyzi
267 m
Visited this place? Tap the stars to rate it and share your experience / photos with the community! Try now! You can cancel it anytime.
Discover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes