Karavolades Steps

The famous Santorini staircase—often called the Karavolades Steps—is located in Fira, connecting the town above to the Old Port below. Carved into the steep caldera cliffs, it consists of roughly 500–600 zigzagging steps.

Historically, it was the island’s main route for moving people and goods between sea and town, long before roads or the Santorini Cable Car were built. Donkeys and mules were used to carry supplies—and still are today, though this practice is controversial.

The staircase symbolizes Santorini’s adaptation to its dramatic volcanic landscape. It also reflects the island’s maritime past, when access by boat was essential.

Today, visitors either walk the Karavolades steps for the experience and views of the caldera or use the cable car. The climb is physically demanding, especially in heat, but offers one of the island’s most iconic perspectives.