Umschreibung In Germany
This staircase was created in 2004, and it is actually a sculpture that was designed by the Danish artist Olafur Eliasson. If you look at it quickly, it kind of looks like a roller coaster, doesn't it? The stairs are located in front of the KPMG building, and interpretations of its meaning vary greatly.
The name "Umschreibung" means a movement without a destination, and as we can see, the steps intertwine and create a smooth infinite loop. What do you think the artist was trying to convey?
Livraria Lello In Portugal
Does this staircase look familiar to you? Well, this might be because these staircases supposedly inspired the author of _Harry Potter_, J.K. Rowling. If you think about it, this old red-colored staircase vaguely resembles the magical stairs of Hogwarts.
The staircase belongs to a library called Livreria Lello, located in the northern municipality of Porto, which happens to be one of the oldest bookstores in Portugal. Although the bright red color transmits magic in itself, the staircase looks even more spectacular with those endless shelves crammed with books. Don't pass up the opportunity to walk these magical steps... and who knows? They might just move, just like the ones at Hogwarts.
Battle Box In Singapore
It's hard to tell what this place actually is just by looking at the picture. Popularly known as "Battle Box," the site was constructed as an emergency, bomb-proof command center during World War II. Visit this enticing place and get ready to submerge in a bit of history.
In 1942, this very place was occupied by British soldiers, who were preparing a war strategy against the invading Japanese. This place is currently a museum and a tourist attraction, so everyone has the chance to descend this long and steep stairway.
Chand Baori In India
Steps as far as the eye can see. Do you think you could walk the 3500 steps that constitute Chand Baori? Even though you can't tell from the photograph, this site is actually a cistern, which is in turn surrounded by walls full of steps, just like the ones you can see below. However, the multiple uses and meanings it holds are sure to amaze you.
On the one hand, the cistern ensures that the region has enough supply of water throughout the year. On the other hand, this holy site is also frequented by Hinduists that pray, meditate and bathe there. Today, however, it is mostly the source of curious visitors and tourists. It almost seems fake, doesn't it?
Palais Garnier In France
You can find this heavily decorated staircase in one of the most elegant and famous opera houses in Paris, the Palais Garnier. This opera house was built between 1861 and 1875 and was named after its architect Charles Garnier.
The Opera House is filled with adorned and opulent staircases. It is just a matter of finding and strolling through the ones you like best. This mind-blowing building was also home to several movie adaptations of _The Phantom of the Opera_. So get lost in this heavenly place, but don't get tempted to pact with the Phantom.
Stairway To Heaven In Hawaii
This breathtaking stairway is actually a steep hiking trail that crosses the Ko'olau mountain range on the island of O'ahu, Hawaii. This romantically named staircase actually played an important role during World War II. It turns out that these stairs were used to access an important radio that allowed the allied countries to communicate and exchange information.
In spite of being tempting to climb, the 4000-step stairway was closed off because of weather damage. Sadly, in 2018 the City and County of Honolulu have stated that so far, there is no plan to open the stairs for public use once again. But even if you look at it through pictures, you can easily understand the name of the staircase: it is truly heavenly.
Tiger And Turtle Magic Mountain In Germany
These wonderfully amusing loops and twists are open for the public to climb and watch over the Rhine. In spite of the fact the most dangerous ones are closed off, you can still experience the thrill of looking over the world from a great height.
A personal tip: make the most of your visit by climbing the steps at night. The structure becomes illuminated by lights that make the experience otherworldly. Take our word for it and hold t the led illuminated handrail tight. And don't forget to take your camera!
Tianshan Grand Canyon In China
This is the place to go if you're definitely not afraid of heights... but let's face it, you have to be seriously brave as well. However, the experience itself is beyond rewarding. The sights are awe-inspiring, and they will leave you speechless. Under the sunlight, these rocky mountains look as if they were burning in flames.
The stairs go right through this reddish-brown canyon, thus allowing visitors to get a view that few other places in the world will offer. But this isn't only a place for nature lovers: it is also a great archaeological site which allows you to explore ancient civilizations.
Momo Staircase In Italy
This Staircase gets its name from its designer Giuseppe Momo, a renowned Italian architect and engineer. His curious staircase allows for people to go up and down without ever having to cross each other since there are actually two staircases. If you think twice, that might actually come in handy if you ever want to avoid someone.
There is magic to this staircase, mainly due to the fact that bright light comes from the glass ceiling, as well as from the artfully decorated bronze handrail. Who wouldn't feel like a member of the royalty coming down these steps? These staircases can be found in the Vatican Museums. So if you ever happen to be in Rome, take a day trip to the Vatican City and check out these amazing stairways!
Inka Trail In Peru
Machu Picchu is probably one of the most famous architectural legacies that the Inca civilization has left behind. It has been declared one of the New Seven Cultural Wonders of the World. If you ever have the opportunity of coming here, you won't regret it, since you'll get a full experience: culture, ruins, fantastic views, physical challenges and more.
Hiking the Inca Trail is one of the ways you can reach Machu Pichu, and it consists of three different trails that have different levels of difficulty. Whichever path you choose, the experience will be unforgettable. But beware, you should start thinking about getting in shape for this one!
Trinita Dei Monti In Italy
Rome is home to some of the most beautiful buildings. The church of the Santissima Trinita de Monti is no exception, nor are the steps that lead to it. Decorated in summer with the most exquisite pink and white flowers, the staircase is the best spot for a romantic date.
Go there with your friends, a partner or even alone. You will be instantly captivated by the Spanish Steps, which lead down to a beautiful square named Piazza di Spagna. Fun Fact: this staircase appears in a famous scene in the movie _Roman Holiday._
El Pailon Del Diablo In Ecuador
This is the place to go if you love adventure. As the name suggests, the Devil's Cauldron is truly magnificent. This is the tallest waterfall in the Ecuadorian Andes. Sometimes, the impact of the water on the rocks and the climate fills the surroundings with fog, creating a mysterious and magical scenery. In case you want to visit it, it's only a 30-minute drive from the tourist town of Baños.
Fortunately, these steps allow visitors to get close to the three waterfalls that comprise the area. However, be warned, you're sure to get wet! So don't forget your raincoat and your camera, though watch out for your phone, or else it will get soaked!
Bahnhof St. Johann Basel In Switzerland
At first glance, this staircase looks a bit confusing. The shapes are so symmetrical that in the photo, they look more like a really modern sculpture. They can be found in the Swiss city of Basel, right outside a tram stop. I would definitely not want to miss it.
The perfect symmetry of this staircase makes for an incredible photograph, so get your camera ready and head towards the Bahnhof St. Johann Tram stop! As you can see, sometimes the most amazing staircases are found in some of the most unexpected places!
Batu Caves In Malaysia
These colorful steps look incredible from a distance. The rainbow-colored staircase leads to the Batu Caves, which are a series of cave temples located inside a limestone hill. They are located in Selangor, Malaysia, just 45 minutes away from the capital city of Kuala Lumpur. If you’re into history, religion, architecture or just plain beauty, this is the place to visit.
At the top, there are 13 Hindu temples that are a sight in themselves. There is also a spectacular cave, which features unique species of spiders and bats. A warning, however: in order to enjoy the view from above, you must climb the 272 steps. The experience is worth it, let me assure you.
Scala Del Bovolo In Italy
If you're ever in Italy, don't miss this underrated architectural wonder. While most travelers visit the typical and beautiful Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and other mainstream beauties, the Scala Del Bovolo is a place you can go to that isn't usually swarming with tourists.
Even though you can't really tell by the photo, the site is actually a medieval palace built in 1499\. As you can see, the stairs spiral vertically in a way that feels they might lean over at any minute. However, this wonderful place is open to visitors. Don't miss the chance to climb the 80 steps and experience Italy in a different way.
Bank Tower In Pennsylvania
If you're ever in Pittsburgh, you can't miss this architectural beauty. This staircase is huge and pretty difficult to climb all the way since it's 16 stories high. This Bank Tower was one of the earliest skyscrapers to be built, and it opened its doors in 1902.
What makes the staircase stand out from others is its semicircular form. Apart from this, its marble and decorations create a harmonious shape that will certainly captivate you when viewed from below. It's quite classy, right?
San Juan De Gaztelugatxe In Spain
_Game of Thrones_ is one of the most popular series out there, but what makes it so special? Even though the cast is amazing, so are the incredible views and locations where it was filmed. For example, these steps understandably were home to a few scenes. The place is absolutely magical.
This staircase connects the island of San Juan de Caztelugatxe to mainland Spain. Just imagine walking these winding steps and feeling the wind of the ocean against your face. The sea is right by either side of the stone staircase. But watch your step; you don't want to fall on top of those rocks!
Hassan II Mosque In Morocco
This mosque, located in Casablanca, Morrocco, is actually the largest one in Africa. Even though its construction began in 1986, it was completed in 1993, and the results were mind-blowing. Look how meticulous and sophisticated the paintings on those walls are?
The structures combine different materials that include marble, cedar, granite, and even wood. Just imagine walking down the stairs while admiring the wonderfully decorated arches. And do you know how many people fit inside the mosque? Way more than you would think: a maximum of 105,000 worshippers.
Queen's Staircase In Bahamas
If you’re into natural surroundings, the Queen’s Staircase is a place you need to visit. Located in Nassau, the capital city of the Caribbean nation of Bahamas, these ancestral steps were built in the 18th century. Believe it or not, these steps were carved out of solid limestone. As to its name, it was meant to honor Queen Victoria.
Just imagine all the people that have walked over this asphalt throughout the centuries. However, you’re in luck: this beautiful place has been recently restored, so now you can experience its great 65 steps. Don't miss it!
Fort De Roovere In Netherlands
This is the closest you'll ever come to walking on water. The Moses Bridge Stairs, located near the Dutch town of Halsteren, are one of the most unique things that have ever been designed. They are actually the port of Fort De Roovere; an earthen fort built as part of the Dutch Water Line, which is a series of water-based defenses built in the early 17th century.
As you walk towards the Fort de Roovere, the natural appearance of the staircase allows for the surroundings to remain unperturbed. Don't be scared; the steps are completely safe and dry! Be sure to get some excellent photographs.
Zoo Zurich in Switzerland
Have you ever wondered what the view would look like from the tallest tree? Fortunately, you can enjoy this in the Masoala Rainforest, where the Zurich Zoo built a fabulous stairway that looks heavenly. Even though the Zoo opened in 1929, the stairway was built just a couple of decades ago.
Looking from below, the steps look almost infinite-like, and they surround a thin and long kapok tree. This is the place to go if you’re in need of peace of mind and soul. And who knows, while you enjoy the view, you may even hear the roars of lions from a distance.