Stairs are often seen as purely functional, but around the world, architects and artists have transformed them into masterpieces that inspire awe. Whether carved into natural landscapes or designed as architectural marvels, these staircases are more than a way to move between levels—they’re experiences in themselves. Here are the 15 most exquisite stairs across the globe.
1. Spanish Steps – Rome, Italy
Perhaps the most famous staircase in the world, the Spanish Steps connect the Piazza di Spagna with the Trinità dei Monti church. Built in the 18th century, the grand sweep of 135 steps has become a lively meeting point and cultural icon.
2. Chand Baori – Rajasthan, India
This ancient stepwell near Jaipur is one of the deepest and largest in the world, with more than 3,000 perfectly symmetrical steps descending into the earth. Built around the 9th century, its geometric design is both functional and mesmerizing.
3. The Potemkin Stairs – Odesa, Ukraine
A symbol of the city, these 192 steps were designed in the 19th century to create an optical illusion: from the top, the stairs look endless, while from the bottom, only the landings are visible. They were immortalized in the silent film Battleship Potemkin.
4. Loretto Chapel Staircase – Santa Fe, USA
This miraculous spiral staircase in New Mexico defies explanation. Constructed without nails or central support in the 19th century, it makes two complete turns and has baffled architects for generations.
5. Escadaria Selarón – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
Created by Chilean artist Jorge Selarón, this colorful staircase is covered with more than 2,000 hand-painted tiles from around the world. It’s both a work of art and a tribute to Brazilian culture.
6. Scala Contarini del Bovolo – Venice, Italy
This hidden gem in Venice is a spiral staircase that wraps elegantly around the exterior of a palace. Its name, bovolo (snail), perfectly captures its delicate, curling design.
7. Batu Caves Stairs – Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Leading up to the Batu Caves temple complex, these 272 rainbow-colored steps are a vibrant and spiritual journey. They have become one of Malaysia’s most photographed sites.
8. The Tulip Stairs – Greenwich, England
Located in the Queen’s House at Greenwich, this was the first self-supporting spiral staircase in England. Its elegant wrought-iron balustrade with tulip motifs adds historic charm.
9. Montagne de Bueren – Liège, Belgium
This daunting staircase has 374 steps rising steeply through the city. Climbing it rewards you with panoramic views over Liège, while special events sometimes transform the steps with flowers or candles.
10. Moses Bridge Stairs – Halsteren, Netherlands
Technically more of a sunken walkway than a traditional staircase, this clever structure creates the illusion of walking through water. The steps blend seamlessly into the moat of a historic Dutch fort.
11. The Vatican Museums Spiral Staircase – Vatican City
Designed by Giuseppe Momo in 1932, this double-helix staircase is both functional and beautiful. Its sweeping curves and ornate bronze railings make it one of the most photographed staircases in the world.
12. Tiger and Turtle – Duisburg, Germany
This walkable sculpture resembles a roller coaster frozen in time. Visitors can climb its twisting staircase paths, though one loop is intentionally unwalkable. It’s a blend of art, engineering, and surrealism.
13. The Great Wall of China Steps – China
Not a single staircase but a series of thousands of steep stone steps winding across rugged mountains, the Great Wall’s stairs are both historic and breathtaking, offering views unlike anywhere else.
14. Rocamadour Grand Staircase – France
Pilgrims for centuries have climbed these steps to reach the cliffside sanctuary of Rocamadour. Once ascended on knees in devotion, today they remain a dramatic approach to the medieval village.
15. Heaven’s Gate Stairs – Tianmen Mountain, China
Leading to a natural archway known as Heaven’s Gate, these 999 steps are steep and awe-inspiring. They create a dramatic ascent that feels like a journey into the clouds.
Conclusion
From ancient stepwells to modern art installations, staircases around the world prove that design can transform utility into wonder. Each of these 15 exquisite stairs tells a story—of history, devotion, culture, or creativity—inviting travelers not just to climb, but to experience.
If you’re a lover of architecture, history, or simply extraordinary views, these staircases deserve a place on your bucket list.