The traditional donkey (or mule) ride from the Old Port of Fira up to the town center takes approximately 20 to 30 minutes. The ride follows the famous 588-step zigzagging Karavolades Stairs that climb the steep volcanic caldera cliffs. While the physical distance isn't vast, the donkeys move at a steady, rhythmic pace, navigating the narrow turns alongside pedestrians and the occasional cable car cable overhead. The cost is typically around €10 per person. While it is a "classic" Santorini experience, many modern travelers opt for the Cable Car, which covers the same distance in just 3 to 5 minutes, or choose to walk the steps on foot to enjoy the views at their own pace. If you do choose the donkey ride, it is best to do it early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday sun, and be prepared for a bumpy, authentic journey that provides a unique (and sometimes dizzying) perspective of the Aegean Sea below.