Symi Kali Strata to Chorio

The Kali Strata — meaning 'good steps' in Greek — is the most celebrated staircase walk in the South Aegean, climbing 375 original Ottoman-era stone steps from Symi's magnificent harbour settlement of Gialos to the hilltop old town of Chorio. The 2-kilometre ascent is as much an architectural experience as a physical one, passing an almost continuous parade of neoclassical and Ottoman-era mansions built during Symi's prosperous 18th- and 19th-century sponge-fishing era.

Symi is reached by ferry from Rhodes (approximately one hour) or by smaller boats from Marmaris in Turkey. The trailhead is at the harbour quay in Gialos, immediately at the ferry landing. No permit is required and no parking is needed given the island's compact size. The steps begin just west of the clock tower in the upper harbour area and are clearly signposted from the waterfront.

The staircase is paved entirely with original hand-cut limestone blocks, wide enough for two people to pass comfortably. The surface is smooth but worn in places and can be slippery after rain or in early morning dew. The route climbs without significant switchbacks, ascending directly up the hillside with views over the polychrome harbour mansions expanding progressively behind the climber. There is no shade along the majority of the staircase and the ascent is fully exposed to the sun.

Key landmarks include the Symi Naval Museum partway up the steps and several restored neoclassical mansions with ornate facades and ornamental shutters. The staircase terminates at the edge of Chorio, Symi's medieval upper town, where the path transitions to narrow alleyways and stone-paved lanes. The ruined castle of the Knights of Saint John crowns the highest point and offers 360-degree views over Gialos and the surrounding bays.

Chorio has several tavernas and a small grocery shop. There are no water sources on the staircase; water should be carried from Gialos. The descent by the same route takes approximately 25 minutes. A paved vehicle road also connects Gialos and Chorio for those who prefer not to use the steps. The Kali Strata is typically combined with a half-day exploring Gialos harbour before or after the ascent.