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Karavolades Stairs: A Journey Through Time

Experience Santorini's history and beauty with a walk down the Karavolades Stairs, connecting the old port to stunning caldera views.

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The Karavolades Stairs, a historic stepped path, connects Fira's old port to the town above. Offering stunning caldera views, it's a challenging yet rewarding walk, providing a glimpse into Santorini's past and present.

A brief summary to Karavolades Stairs

  • Unnamed Road, Ormos Firon, 847 00, GR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes with good grip, as the steps can be slippery.
  • Bring water, especially during the summer months, as the climb can be strenuous.
  • Be prepared to share the path with donkeys and watch out for animal droppings.
  • Consider taking the cable car up and walking down to save energy and enjoy the views.
  • Take your time and enjoy the scenery, stopping at the shops and cafes along the way.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Fira town center, follow the signs towards the Old Port. The entrance to the Karavolades Stairs is located near the cable car station. The walk down takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Be aware of the steep incline and slippery steps. There is no cost to walk the stairs.

  • Cable Car

    From Fira, the cable car offers a quick descent to the Old Port, located next to the Karavolades stairs. A single ride costs €6 per person. The cable car operates frequently throughout the day, but queues can be long, especially during peak season. From the Old port, the Karavolades Stairs are right next to the Cable Car exit.

  • Public Transport

    The main bus station in Fira provides access to the entire island. From the bus station, walk towards the caldera and follow signs for the Old Port and cable car. The Karavolades Stairs are located adjacent to the cable car station. Bus tickets within Santorini typically cost between €2.00 and €2.50. From the port of Santorini, KTEL buses are available to get to Fira.

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Discover more about Karavolades Stairs

The Karavolades Stairs, also known as the old port stairs, is a historic pathway that zigzags its way up the cliffside, linking the Old Port of Santorini to the main town of Fira. Constructed in the 18th century, these stairs served as the primary means of transporting goods and people between the port and the town. Today, with the advent of the cable car, the Karavolades Stairs have become a popular walking route, offering visitors a unique perspective on the island's stunning caldera. The Karavolades Stairs consist of approximately 588 steps. As you ascend or descend, you'll witness breathtaking views of the caldera, the volcanic islands, and the Aegean Sea. The path is shared with donkeys, which are still used to transport goods and tourists. While the presence of these animals adds to the traditional charm, be prepared for the occasional odor and the need to yield to them. Walking the Karavolades Stairs can be a challenging experience, especially during the hottest part of the day. The steps can be slippery, and the climb is steep. However, the sense of accomplishment and the stunning views make it a worthwhile endeavor. Along the way, you'll find small shops and cafes where you can take a break and enjoy the scenery. Once at the bottom, explore the old market and enjoy a meal or drink at one of the taverns.

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