A new PtCl2/PtCl4-catalyzed hydroarylation/cycloisomerization cascade reaction leading to the formation of two aromatic or heteroaromatic rings in one step is reported. The strategy developed is exemplified by the synthesis of the 5,6-dihydrobenzo[c]phenanthrene and 6H-naphtho[2,1-c]chromene skeletons. Attempts to prepare [8]helicene-like molecules are also discussed.