The devil's stairs
The Devil's Stairs: A Hidden Gem in Porvoo
The Devil's Stairs: A Historic Pathway in Porvoo
Discover the historic Devil's Stairs in Porvoo: a scenic marvel offering breathtaking views and a glimpse into the town's rich past.
The Devil's Stairs in Porvoo are a steep, winding staircase with historical significance and scenic views. Connecting the upper and lower parts of the city, these stairs were once a vital route for locals and traders. Today, they offer visitors a glimpse into Porvoo's past and a picturesque spot to capture the town's beauty.
Plan your visit
A brief summary to The devil's stairs
Opening times, essentials, and a few local tips gathered into one calmer, easier-to-scan planning section.
Plan your visit
Koulukuja, Porvoo, 06100, FI
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Getting There
Walking
From Porvoo Cathedral, head down the hill towards the river. Turn left onto the riverside promenade and walk along the river until you reach the bridge (Porvoonjoki). Cross the bridge and continue straight on Aleksanterinkatu (the main street). After about 500 meters, turn right onto Koulukuja street. Continue walking straight for about 200 meters, and The Devil's Stairs will be on your left. Look for the distinctive staircase leading down. This walk is free.
Public Transport
Porvoo's local bus system, operated by Helsinki Region Transport (HSL), connects various parts of the city. Check the HSL website or app for the most up-to-date bus schedules and routes to Koulukuja. From the nearest bus stop on Aleksanterinkatu, walk to Koulukuja street. Continue walking straight for about 200 meters, and The Devil's Stairs will be on your left. A single bus fare within Porvoo costs approximately €3-5.
Taxi
Taxis are available in Porvoo, and a ride to The Devil's Stairs is possible. From the Porvoo city center, a 5km taxi ride would cost around 10.9 EUR. You can hail a taxi on the street or use a ride-hailing app. Ask the driver to take you to Koulukuja, 06100 Porvoo.
Car
If driving from Helsinki, take the E18 motorway towards Porvoo. Take the exit towards Porvoo/Route 7 and continue until you reach the city center. Follow Koulukuja Street to reach The Devil's Stairs. Parking is available nearby, with fees of €2/hour. Free parking spaces with time limits are marked in blue on the parking map. You can pay for parking using a mobile app or at parking machines that accept card and contactless payments.
Local tips
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Wear comfortable shoes, as the stairs can be steep and uneven.
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Take your time to enjoy the views of the Porvoo River and the surrounding Old Town.
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Visit during sunset for stunning photo opportunities as the golden light bathes the hills.
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Explore the charming shops and cafes in the vicinity to immerse yourself in the local culture.
Discover more about The devil's stairs
The Devil's Stairs, located in the heart of Porvoo, is a captivating tourist attraction with unique charm and historical significance. These steep, winding steps lead down toward the riverside, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape and the Porvoo River.
The stairs serve as a reminder of the town's rich heritage, having been a vital route for locals and traders. As you ascend or descend, you're enveloped in the serene atmosphere that characterizes this picturesque town. Dating back several centuries, the stairs reflect the architectural styles and cultural influences that have shaped Porvoo.
Stories and legends surround the site, some attributing the stairs to myths involving the devil, adding an intriguing layer to your visit. The surrounding area features quaint shops, cafes, and galleries, allowing visitors to soak in the local culture. A stroll around the Devil's Stairs leads you to explore more of Porvoo's historical buildings, such as the Porvoo Cathedral and charming wooden houses.
The path is accessible for visitors of all ages, and there are resting spots along the way to take in the views. Whether you're a history buff or simply looking for a picturesque spot to relax, the Devil's Stairs encapsulates the spirit of Porvoo.
A brief summary to The devil's stairs
Use Tower Bridge as your starting point for nearby food, family ideas, nightlife, and more local discoveries.
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