Landmark
Kamondo Stairs
Some booking links are affiliate links. If you book through them, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We never let this influence which places we recommend.
The Kamondo Stairs are a unique pedestrian staircase in the Karaköy (formerly Galata) district of Istanbul, connecting Bankalar Caddesi (Banks Street) with the upper neighborhood. Built in the 19th century, the stairs feature a striking mix of Neo-Baroque and early Art Nouveau styles, with a distinctive double-helix design that allows two people to ascend side by side without meeting. The stairs are named after the Kamondo family, a prominent Jewish banking dynasty of the Ottoman era. Visitors often pause to admire the ornate iron railings and the subtle curvature of the steps, which create an optical illusion. The surrounding area is a vibrant mix of historic banks, art galleries, and cafes, making the stairs a pleasant detour while exploring the district. The stairs are especially photogenic in late afternoon light, when shadows accentuate their elegant lines.
Don't miss
- Admire the elegant double-helix design and ornate ironwork
- Photograph the stairs from below to capture the full sweep of the curve
- Explore the surrounding Bankalar Caddesi with its historic bank buildings
- Visit nearby Galata Tower and the vibrant cafes of the district
- Notice the blend of European and Ottoman architectural details
Tickets & tours
Ways to visit Kamondo Stairs
You don't need a tour to visit, entry is free. A tour is worth it if you want transport, a guide, or to combine Kamondo Stairs with nearby sights in one day. That's what these do well.
Cheapest way inIstanbul Mosaic Lamp Workshop in Grand Bazaar4.9★ · 75 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$12 per personSee dates →
Most bookedIstanbul: Turkish Mosaic Lamp Workshop in Galata – All Included4.9★ · 667 travelers~2 hoursFree cancellationFrom$34 per personSee dates →
Private & flexibleIST Airport Transportation @ Istanbul Hotels5★ · 307 travelers~1 hourFree cancellationFrom$23 per personSee dates →Good for
How travelers rate it
Getting there
Know before you go
- The stairs are outdoors and open 24/7, but best visited in daylight.
- Bring a wide-angle lens to capture the full spiral effect.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the surrounding streets are hilly and cobbled.
- Combine with a walk to Galata Tower (10 minutes uphill) for a full Karaköy experience.
A bit of history
The Kamondo Stairs were built in the 1870s by the Kamondo family, a wealthy Jewish banking family who played a significant role in Ottoman finance. The stairs were designed to provide a direct route between the family's office and their residence on the hill, and they remain a fine example of 19th-century urban planning in Istanbul.
Common questions
Are the Kamondo Stairs free to visit?
Yes, they are a public staircase with no entry fee.
How long should I spend at the Kamondo Stairs?
Most visitors spend about 15–30 minutes taking photos and admiring the architecture.
Is the Kamondo Stairs wheelchair accessible?
No, the stairs are not wheelchair accessible as they consist entirely of steps.
What is the best time to visit the Kamondo Stairs?
Late afternoon for golden hour light, or early morning to avoid crowds.
Can I visit the Kamondo Stairs at night?
Yes, the stairs are open 24/7, but they are not well-lit, so daytime is recommended.
Are there guided tours that include the Kamondo Stairs?
Some walking tours of Karaköy include the stairs, but you can easily visit independently.
More attractions in Istanbul
