ronda spain travel blog

11 Best Things to do in Ronda, Spain

Welcome to Ronda, a beautiful town in the Andalusia region of Spain with impressive historical ruins and stunning views. Located high on a rock plateau and carved down the middle by the dramatic El Tajo gorge, Ronda is a scenic treasure. It’s also one of the ‘white villages of Andalusia’ that you should add to your Andalusia road trip. Spend a few days enjoying the top things to do in Ronda, whether crossing centuries-old bridges, roaming through the cobblestone streets, or enjoying panoramic views at sunset.

Things to do in Ronda

Ronda is one of the beautiful ‘Pueblos Blancos’ in Spain’s southern region of Andalusia. While it is a relatively small town, it’s rapidly growing in popularity amongst tourists.

This is because of its jaw-dropping landscapes, such as the 100-meter gorge and stunning surrounding countryside. However, it also has a rich history of Moorish and Christian rule, leaving lots to discover. 

Here are all your hotel options in Ronda.

1. Walk Over Puente Nuevo (New Bridge)

Puente Nuevo is the number one thing to do in Ronda and the icon of the town. This 18th-century bridge, the ‘newest’ of the three, hangs high over the 100-meter-deep Tajo gorge. This gorge is also home to the mighty Guadelevín river which divides the town. 

Also close to Ronda: Caminito Del Rey: Spain’s Most Thrilling Hike

The main reason to visit Puente Nuevo is for the awesome views. However, above the middle arch in the bridge, you’ll also see a solid column that was priorly used as a prison! These days, you can visit these chambers for a small exhibition.

Also visit: The beautiful city of Seville in Spain.

The Best Viewpoints

There are four interesting viewpoints to admire the bridge from. Firstly, you can walk down a few stairs and follow a sand path for about 10 minutes for a stunning lower-angle viewpoint ( here is the location ). You’ll also be able to spot the beautiful waterfall below the bridge from this spot.

Additionally, you can take a look from the Jardines De Cuenca or the viewing platform Mirador de Aldehuela.

Lastly, you can visit the bottom of the valley, close to the waterfall, and look up at the bridge from the pools. 

Please Note: If you’d like to visit the waterfall, please be aware that it’s not the most straightforward descent and is best done with a climbing tour . However, if you decide to go by yourself, head through Albergue Los Molinos restaurant for the best access. 

2. Jardines De Cuenca

Right next to one of the cliff sides, high on the ledges of the Tajo gorge, you’ll find the Jardines de Cuenca (Cuenca Gardens). The gardens were dedicated to Ronda’s twin city Cuenca since both share similarities in their geographical layout. Walk through the beautiful rose gardens, taking in the fantastic views of all three bridges and the valley below. 

Opening Times: Everyday from 8 AM to 10 PM.

3. Arco de Felipe V

Located right next to the Jardines de Cuenca stands the Arco de Felipe V, a stone arch that’s part of the town walls of Ronda, Spain . From here, you pass into the La Ciudad district, the most beautiful part of the town that offers impressive views over the surrounding landscape.

The arch took its name from Felipe V, the first Bourbon king of Spain. This was because he helped rebuild the Spanish economy after the War of Succession in the 18th century. 

Read: Setenil de las Bodegas, the Cave Village of Spain

4. La Casa del Rey Moro: One of the Best Things to do in Ronda

On the other cliffside, opposite the Jardines de Cuenca, stands a beautiful house overlooking the valley: the House of the Moorish King. Discover the surrounding grounds, made up of hanging gardens with a couple of fountains.

Try to also spot some of the free-roaming peacocks! This is one of the best things to do in Ronda, Spain, and a must-see on your Andalusia road trip . 

Despite the name, this storied palace was never actually home to a Moorish king. In fact, the only genuine relic the house has from the Moorish occupation is a 14th-century underground water mine. You can also go and visit this!  

Opening Times: Monday – Sunday from 10 AM – 9.30 PM.

5. Mondragón Palace

Hidden in another building overlooking the valley stands a Moorish palace and garden. Legend has it that this building was the residence of King Abomelic, son of the Sultan of Morocco Abul Asan. He was also the king who built the underground water mine.

These days, it’s converted into a municipal museum, where you can learn about Ronda’s local history, archeology, and prehistoric findings.

Opening Times: Tuesday – Friday from 9.30 AM – 8 PM. Saturday & Monday from 10 AM – 2 PM (reopens from 3 PM – 6 PM). On Sunday, open from 10 AM – 3 PM. 

Tip: You can purchase a combined ticket for 12 EUR (12.20 USD) to visit a few different monuments, including Palacio de Mondragón. You will be able to get this at the site’s entrance.

6. Fuente de la Duquesa de Parcent

Plaza de la Duquesa de Parcent, a square in Ronda, Spain, is the perfect spot to sit and relax during your day full of sightseeing. The leafy square has a courtyard and a beautiful fountain to listen to while you watch the locals walk by.

This part of Ronda is located in the old town, the La Ciudad district. You will also find many of the main monuments and museums here. 

Tip: A bit further, you will find Plaza del Gigante, a beautiful square with the most authentic buildings in town.

7. Mirador de Ronda & Alameda del Tajo

If you’re looking to take in the sights of the town from above, there are two viewpoints you can visit. The first is Mirador de Ronda, which offers some fantastic vistas of the gorge, the mountains, and Puente Nuevo.

The second is Alameda, right next to the famous Plaza de Toros. Here you’ll find a wonderful tree-lined promenade and garden where many families gather in the summer. 

Both viewpoints are perched on the edge of the Tajo Gorge, and seeing the town views from here is one of the best things to do in Ronda. 

8. The Arab Baths of Ronda (Baños Árabes)

The Arab Baths are a fascinating thermal complex from the Muslim period in Ronda. The construction of these baths dates back to the 13th and 14th centuries and is one of the best-preserved in Spain . Discover the different bathrooms, enjoying every intricate detail of this fascinating piece of history. This is a top thing to do in Ronda and a must-see on your Andalusia road trip . 

Opening Times & Tickets: Tuesday – Friday from 9.30 AM – 8 PM. Saturday and Monday from 10 AM – 2 PM (reopens from 3 PM – 6 PM). Sunday open from 10 AM – 3 PM. Buy your tickets here .

9. Plaza de Toros de Ronda

One of the reasons tourists visit Ronda is because it’s home to the oldest stone bullring in all of Spain. Bullfighting plays a big part in the history of Andalusia, and by visiting Plaza de Toros, you get a small glimpse of what this sport meant for the town back in the day. Not only is it a grand building, but it’s an excellent place to learn more about the Real Maestranza De Caballería, the oldest order of horsemanship.

However, even though this sport was important historically, we recommend that you don’t watch a bullfight as this is a bad example of wildlife tourism. 

Read: Things to know about Wildlife Tourism

Did you know: although this bullring might not be the largest in the world (5000 seats), it does have the largest Rueda (the circle of sand in the middle), which has a diameter of 66 meters!

10. Puerta de Almocábar & Iglesia del Espíritu Santo

Enter Ronda through one of the 13th-century town gates: Puerta de Almocabar. Located on the southern side of the town, these walls and the gate are one of the most impressive remains of history in Ronda. 

The name comes from the Moorish word ‘Al Maqabir’, meaning cemetery. Traditionally, Moorish cemeteries were built outside of the town walls. Because of this, the gate was one of the main entrances to the town and led through to what is currently known as Iglesia del Espiritu Santo (the Church of the Holy Spirit). 

11. Go Shopping

After seeing some of the town’s monuments, treat yourself to some retail therapy! One of the best things to do in Ronda is to go shopping on the main street ‘Carrera Espinel’. Here you’ll find lots of bigger stores and local boutique shops.

One of our favorite shops sits right next to the restaurant Las Maravillas and sells lots of linen clothing for affordable prices. 

Best Cafes and Restaurants in Ronda 

Ronda won’t disappoint when it comes to food! Many delicious restaurants and tapas bars are located all around town that serve the very best of authentic Andalusian cuisine. Some of our favorites were:

• Las Maravillas (Tapas)
• Il Forno a Legna (Italian)
• Churrería Alba (Best churros in town)

Where to Stay in Ronda 

If you choose to stay overnight in Ronda, there are plenty of accommodation options to choose from.

Hotels in Ronda 😴

As the gorge is one of the main draws for visitors, you’ll find many of the hotels located on the cliff’s edge with beautiful views over the countryside. However, you can also find more centrally located apartments and villas.

How to Visit Ronda

Ronda is about a 2-hour drive from Seville or Malaga , making it a good option on your road trip in Andalusia . Alternatively, spend the night seeing a different side of the town, when it’s peaceful and quieter in the evenings. 

Driving is the best way to visit Ronda as it allows you to see other places outside the town too, such as the coast and regions like Cadiz. 

We recommend to rent a car in Spain through Sunny Cars with free cancellation and insurance included. Book your rental car here .

Getting Around

The town is relatively small, and one of the best things to do is to explore it on foot. If you’re driving, there are lots of parking areas in Ronda that are all close to the center. 

Best Time to Visit

The summers are warm and can be busy in Ronda, Spain . Because of its small size and popularity for day trips from Seville , the streets can get busy at this time.

Instead, choose to visit during the late spring or early fall. This is when temperatures are cooler, and it’s easier to explore.

Tip: We recommend spending the night in Ronda to experience the town with fewer visitors.

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thank you so much for the wonderful review of Ronda attractions. We are planning to spend 4 nights in Ronda this october. I will definitely follow your recommendations. thanks again

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Bridges and baths: The best things to do in Ronda, Spain

Posted on Last updated: December 30, 2023

Head to the Andalusian hills for a spectacular city break in Ronda, Spain. Discover the best things to do in Ronda with its spectacular views, historic bridges, Roman baths and tasty tapas.

* This site contains affiliate links , where I get a small commission from purchases at no extra cost to you.

AD: This post is brought to you in association with ETIAS Spain

Set on an Andalusian mountain plateau, the town of Ronda is just over an hour – and a world away – from the beach resorts of Spain’s Costa Del Sol. This pueblo blanco (white town) has one of the most beautiful settings around, perched precariously on the edge of a gorge surrounded by rolling hills, whitewashed buildings, orange trees and olive groves.

Ronda is one of Spain’s oldest towns. It was first settled by the Celts and later inhabited by the Romans and Moors, and you can feel its history all around you in its cobbled streets, old mansions and stone churches.

It was a favourite with the 19th century Viajeros Romanticos (romantic travellers) – artists and writers like Orson Welles, Alexander Dumas and Ernest Hemingway who searched for inspiration in Europe’s most unspoilt destinations.

Today Ronda may be a bit more on the tourist trail, but it’s still kept plenty of its original charm. It’s still got that small town feel, with no high-rises or big branded hotels, and if you walk for 20 minutes in any direction you’ll find yourself out in the countryside.

Ronda is close enough to Seville or Málaga for a day trip, but as well as stunning views, there’s more than enough to see and do to make it worth staying a night or two. So if you’re looking for a spot for a relaxed Spanish city break – or an add on to a trip to Seville, Granada or the coast, here are some of my favourite things to do in Ronda.

The best things to do in Ronda, Spain

See the famous Puente Nuevo (new bridge)

The heart of Ronda is the El Tajo gorge, a rocky drop plummeting over 100 metres to the Guadalevín River. The gorge cuts right through the centre of Ronda and splits the town in two. On one side is the Moorish old town and on the other is the 15th-century El Mercadillo ‘new’ town, and three bridges cross the gorge to connect them.

The Puente Nuevo or New Bridge is Ronda’s most famous landmark and its classic postcard shot – a giant triple arch with columns stretching 120 metres down into the depths of the gorge. Despite the name it’s over 230 years old (new by Ronda standards) and opened in 1783 after taking 40 years to build. Extra care was taken after the previous bridge on the same spot collapsed only six years after it was finished, killing 50 people.

There are gory stories of Nationalist sympathisers in the Spanish Civil War being thrown off the bridge – inspiring Hemingway who used the idea in his book For Whom the Bell Tolls . And there’s a chamber above the bridge’s central arch which was allegedly a wartime torture chamber and prison, and now houses an exhibition about the bridge’s construction.

Admiring the Puerto Nuevo is one the most popular things to do in Ronda, but it’s not the only bridge in town. It’s also worth checking out the other two – the Puente Viejo (Old Bridge) and smaller Bridge of San Miguel (also known as the Arab Bridge). Take a walk over each of them for a different view of the gorge and the town’s historic buildings.

Walk down into the El Tajo gorge

One of the best ways to see the Puerto Nuevo is to get down below and look up to really get a sense of the scale of this spectacular piece of engineering. To reach the bottom of the El Tajo gorge, start in the pretty Plaza de Maria Auxiliadora square where there’s an unpaved road you can follow, which isn’t too strenuous but turns steep and rocky in parts.

Along the way there are plenty of viewpoints where you can see the Puerto Nuevo from different angles, including a view of the waterfall below it. And once you’re at the bottom of the gorge you can follow the Guadalevín River or see ruined flour mills on the Carretera de los Molinos, which were destroyed by an earthquake in 1917.

Visit one of Spain’s oldest bullrings

As well as designing the Puente Nuevo, architect Jose Martín de Aldehuela was also responsible for creating Ronda’s Plaza del Toros – one of Spain’s oldest and most impressive bullrings. It was built in 1785 and could hold 5000 spectators, and is unusual in that all the seats are covered by two-storey arched galleries. Although I’m not a fan of the sport, it’s still an impressive place to visit, and a big part of the town’s history and culture.

As well as exploring the arena, there’s a museum where you can learn more about Ronda’s bullfighting tradition, and the famous local Romero and Ordóñez families who produced a string of champions in the 18th century. Only one fight a year is a held at the Plaza del Toros now, as part of the Feria de Pedro Romero festival each September.

Explore the historic Arab Baths

Ronda’s Arab Baths are some of the best preserved in Spain. They were built during the town’s 12th-century Moorish period and were used by Muslims to purify themselves before visiting the mosque. The design is similar to a Roman bathhouse, with separate hot, warm and cool rooms where people would gather and socialise.

The baths were built partially underground to control the temperature and heated by a network of underground chambers and furnaces. You might not be able to take a dip any more, but you can find out how they worked, and explore the arched ceiling rooms with their star-shaped roof vents designed to let steam out and light in.

Try delicious local food

The altitude and sunny weather make Ronda great for growing fruit and vegetables, with tomatoes, peppers and broad beans bursting with flavour. You’ll also find rabbit from the hills and seafood from the coast, along with Spanish classics like Iberico ham.

The perfect way to try a bit of it all is at the town’s tapas restaurants. Some of our favourite spots were the tiny De Locos Tapas , with quirky dishes like tuna tataki and belly pork on the menu – though make sure to book in advance. And Entrevinos, a wine bar come tapas restaurant with a great selection of wines from the nearby Sierras de Málaga.

Or if you want to splash out, Ronda is also home to Michelin-starred Bardal , which offers a choice of tasting menus paired with wines from their cellars.

Climb the stairs at the Casa del Rey Moro

Despite a name that means ‘the home of a Moorish King’, the Casa del Rey Moro only dates back to the 18th century, though it was built on the site of an original Moorish well. Although the mansion itself isn’t open to the public, you can visit the beautiful gardens which were designed by French landscape gardener Jean-Claude Forestier in 1912.

The gardens stretch across three terraces built into the hillside, with fountains, streams and pools, decorated with colourful flowers and ceramic tiles. There’s also an original staircase which runs from the gardens down 200 steps to the bottom of the El Tajo gorge, and was originally used to fetch water when Ronda was under siege.

Admire the views from the Alameda del Tajo

With panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, watching the sun rise or set at the cliffside Alameda del Tajo gardens is one of the essential things to do in Ronda. This 19th-century park is laid out with five avenues lined with trees leading to the cliff edge.

On the edge of are viewpoints which jut out over the gorge – so make sure you’ve got a head for heights. On a sunny day the Alameda del Tajo gardens are a social hub for Ronda’s residents, who gather beneath the shady trees to catch up with each other.

Stroll through the Old Town

Ronda’s historic old town lies to the south of the El Tajo gorge and is criss-crossed by narrow cobbled streets. Take a wander through them and you’ll find sections of the old city walls, white and yellow-painted churches, tiled fountains and tucked-away cafés.

And if you think Ronda is beautiful in the daytime, just wait until you see it at night. The town is a popular spot for day-trippers from the coast, but once the sun starts to go down and the tour buses head off, wrought iron lamps light the narrow streets and tapas restaurant tables spill out onto the pavements giving it a peaceful, magical feel.

The details

Travelling to spain.

From 2025, visitors from 60 non-EU countries will need to obtain an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) before visiting Spain. This new electronic travel authorisation system allows US citizens to travel to Spain , as well as other nationalities like Canadians, Australians, New Zealanders and Brits. You can apply using a simple online form and the ETIAS is valid for three years for stays of up to 90 days.

When to visit Ronda

Summers in Ronda are long, warm and dry. Unlike many Spanish destinations, July and August aren’t uncomfortably hot either, with average highs around 26–30°C (79–86°F). But summer is peak season, so it’s when Ronda is busiest and most expensive.

Ronda’s winters are short and mild, with daytime average highs of 14°C/57°F and lows of 8°C/46°F. Rainfall peaks from November to January, but there are usually only around five days of rain a month. And the spring and autumn shoulder seasons are a great time to visit – normally pleasantly warm and dry but not so busy as the summer.

How to get to Ronda

Ronda is located in Andalusia in southern Spain, an hour west of Málaga on the coast. Málaga is where you’ll find Ronda’s nearest airport, but it’s also fairly close to Seville, Jerez and Gibraltar airports. If you’re travelling by road, it’s around 105km (1 hour 15 minutes) from Málaga, 130km (1.5 hours) from Seville and 178km (2 hours) from Granada, though allow time to check out the views of the mountain scenery and pueblos blancos .

Ronda’s roads are narrow and street parking is limited, but there are several underground car parks – most major hotels have parking, or can advise you on the nearest place to park. Once you arrive, Ronda is fairly small and easy to get around on foot.

If you’re travelling by public transport, the bus and train stations are a 10-minute walk from the centre of town. Trains to Ronda are infrequent and usually involve a change at Antequera-Santa Ana. It takes around 2 hours from Málaga or 3 hours from Seville. There are also bus services from Málaga, Marbella, Seville, Granada and Cadiz.

Book your travel to Ronda*

Where to stay in Ronda

The Alavera de los Banos * is a Moroccan-style hotel in Ronda’s old Jewish quarter, next to the Arab Baths. It’s a peaceful spot with 11 rustic rooms – some with their own terrace – surrounded by flower-filled gardens with a swimming pool with views of the Roman Bridge. A tasty homemade breakfast of pastries, fruit, local cheese and ham is included.

Or the luxurious, modern Hotel Catalonia * is in the heart of Ronda, with a wow-factor infinity pool overlooking the Plaza de Toros. The 80 rooms are stylishly decorated with high-tech accessories, and there’s a roof terrace bar and restaurant, spa, sauna and gym.

Looking for somewhere to stay in Ronda?*

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Linda Batty

Sunday 1st of May 2022

I am coming to Spain at the end of May. We are travelling by train; starting at Cadiz.Ronda is on my list.Looks fantastic.

Lucy Dodsworth

Hope you have a wonderful trip, it's a beautiful place!

ANUKRATI DOSI

Monday 26th of April 2021

The photos are incredible. I can’t wait to visit Spain one day.

Monday 10th of May 2021

Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!

Melanie Trethowan

Thursday 15th of April 2021

That looks amazing. I can't wait to get back to Spain one day and in the meantime, I just need to be patient! ;-). Thanks for the inspiration and temptation. Mel

Tuesday 20th of April 2021

Patience is definitely a struggle right now! Hope you get to make the trip out there sometime soon though.

Johanna Bradley

Wednesday 14th of April 2021

It does look beautiful, Lucy. Possibly next Spring. It's been on my list for a long time and pre-Covid I got as far as checking out hotels. It's all too uncertain at the moment and the priority is still to get back to the UK to see my youngsters.

Fingers crossed you manage to get back to the UK soon!

Exploring Ronda, Spain’s Spectacular Cliffside City

Recently, I’ve developed an obsession with Pinterest.

It was through Pinterest that I discovered Ronda, one of the oldest cities in Spain, and conveniently, a three-hour train ride from Granada. What it’s most well known for, though, is its stunning cliffside location.

And when I say cliffside, I mean cliffside .

So when I first spotted photos of the town on Pinterest, I immediately started planning my visit. At the time, I was basing myself in nearby Granada , so it was easy to make the trip.

I packed my daypack and hit the rails with Dave, hoping that Ronda would bring me the rest and relaxation I’d been craving. I wanted to be outside. To wander down tiny alleyways and take photos of beautiful buildings, and not fall into El Tajo Gorge.

The moment I arrived, I felt like this  was the Spain I’d been dreaming of, all white-washed buildings and rolling hills and orange trees and olive trees and signs advertising tapas outside of every bar.

We started our explorations by picking a street at random and wandering down it. Five minutes later, we had reached the outskirts of the city and were making our way down a dirt track and into the countryside. I relished in the peacefulness and the sweet, unfamiliar sensation of fresh air on my face.

As we walked, I craned my neck behind me, grinning as I caught glimpses of Ronda, a mishmash of white buildings and red-tiled roofs crammed up against the cliffs.

Despite it being March, it felt like an autumn day. The air was crisp, the branches of trees were stark, and the foliage a reddish-brown.

We returned to the city and passed through Plaza de España, the main square, which was full of Chinese tour groups and overpriced restaurants. Although we were firmly visiting in the low season, there were still a surprising amount of tourists around.

By this point, I was itching to find those views of Ronda I’d spotted on Pinterest. We made our way over to Punte Nuevo Bridge, and from there, we had a spectacular sunset view of one of the most unusual places I’ve visited.

It doesn’t look too bad until you snap a portrait shot…

Pretty incredible, huh? We must have stayed around the bridge for over an hour, snapping photos and watching the sunset, and all I could think about was how amazing this place was.

The following day, we awoke to incredible bright blue skies and a gale in the air. Given Ronda’s location — 750 metres above sea level and on top of a mountain — it wasn’t surprising to find ourselves being blown from one activity to the next.

Our first stop was the Plaza de Toros, one of the oldest bullfighting rings in Spain. Maybe even the oldest, depending on who you choose to talk to. Bullfighting isn’t my thing, of course, but aside from one week every September, this one remains empty for tourists to wander around.

Inside, it was beautiful.

We also visited the bullfighting museum to learn more of the history and honestly, it was really boring. Dave found it interesting, though, and dragged me around for far too long.

With sunny weather and a chill in the air, it felt like the perfect time to go for a walk. There are many, many hikes you can do outside of Ronda — or so we read. When we visited the tourist information shop, the woman there couldn’t tell us anything about them.

With a shrug we walked out of town along a small path to see what we could find.

Amazing views, the answer would be. Check out that ridgeline!

As the path dropped down, hugging the side of the mountain, it gave us a spectacular view of the bridge from below.

Can you spot a small bridge at the bottom of the photo below? We walked to the that point and then an angry farmer chased us back up the hill because we were trespassing on his garden.

The following day, we decided to hike again, because while Ronda has to be one of the prettiest places I’ve visited, there wasn’t all that much to do there. We’d hit up all of the tourist spots we’d found recommended online, and spent hours wandering along narrow backstreets. I wanted to get down into the countryside and spend an entire day walking.

It made me nervous.

I hadn’t walked more than around 20 steps a day for the past three months, so my fitness levels were at an all-time low. I was traipsing around like I’d just returned from a stint on the International Space Station.

We found another path to lead us out of Ronda and followed it, telling ourselves we’d walk until the end.

Dave had been toying with the idea of walking the Camino for a while now, and our wander through the countryside only served to increase his desire.

I totally got why he wanted to do it, because even though I’ve never been much of a walker, escaping the world and concentrating only on my feet sounded appealing

“We could go offline for months,” I found myself suggesting every few minutes. “Each year, we could go on a long walk together. Stop working for a month or two, leave our laptops behind, and just walk.”

I loved the solitude and the silence. That we had yet to spot a single person, or any signs of life. There was just a tiny track and the sound of our footsteps.

This walk was the highlight of my time in Ronda. It gave me the chance to get away from the world, clear my head, and focus on nothing but putting one foot in front of the other.

So we walked and we walked, and then we walked some more. We walked for three hours, and with the end not yet in sight, I asked if we could turn back around. I was exhausted.

Feeling like a failure, I trudged my way back to Ronda.

Guess what?!

When we returned to our room, I began researching the track we’d been walking along. It turns out, it was part of the E4 , a 10,000 kilometre-long walking route that runs from Southern Portugal to Greece!

Suddenly, I didn’t feel quite so disheartened about turning back around.

What to Know About Visiting Ronda

How to get there:  You can grab a direct train from Granada and the journey takes two and half hours. Trains run five times a day and cost around 30 euros for a return ticket.

Where to stay:  We stayed at Hotel San Francisco  for around $45 a night, and were really impressed. The continental breakfast was surprisingly good (as a rule, I always avoid continental breakfasts in hotels because they’re uniformly atrocious), and it was in a central location, a few minutes away from the main square. The room was clean, the staff were friendly, and the Wi-Fi came in at 3 Mbps. No complaints!

Where to eat:  Bodega Bar Restaurante was our favourite place to eat in Ronda — it’s a little outside of the main tourist area, and is a popular local haunt. Grab their tapas menu and order a dozen dishes (around a euro each) for a delicious lunch or dinner. My favourite dishes were the avocado pears, jamon croquettes, and fried anchovies.

If you’re looking for a cute breakfast spot,  Sweet Bakery was the best spot we found, with plenty of pastries and smoothies to choose from. 

Aaaand if you happen to have a craving for Indian food, like we did, hit up Curry & Grill. We were skeptical, but it was actually pretty good. Lots of spice, which is unusual for Spain! 

Would you like to visit Ronda? Have you ever seen anywhere like it before?

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Lauren Juliff

Lauren Juliff is a published author and travel expert who founded Never Ending Footsteps in 2011. She has spent over 12 years travelling the world, sharing in-depth advice from more than 100 countries across six continents. Lauren's travel advice has been featured in publications like the BBC, Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and Cosmopolitan, and her work is read by 200,000 readers each month. Her travel memoir can be found in bookstores across the planet.

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33 comments.

Wow….those cliffs…and that bridge! Stunning!!

Isn’t it amazing? :-)

I have never seen something like this, amazing! Gorgeous pictures:-)

Thanks, Lotte! It’s definitely a unique place :-)

Love love love this post! The tips at the bottom are so helpful.

Glad to hear that, Shan! That’s a new addition after a lot of readers requested it in my recent survey :-)

I loved Bodega Restaurant! I got so excited by the multitude of delicious-sounding tapas on the menu and the fact that each one was only €1 that I seriously over-ordered and consequently ended up sharing my feast with one of the local felines ;-)

Oh, amazing! We did exactly the same haha. I think we ended up with about 15 different dishes for lunch :-D

What an amazing place !! Going to Spain next year. So will visit.. Just love the Photos..

Thanks, Marg! It’s one of the prettiest places I’ve visited in Spain :-)

Ronda was one of the first places I visited when moving to Spain – gorgeous! And definitely do the Camino. I am planning on a second this spring!

Dave’s planning his second for next year as well! I’m still not sure… :-)

Thanks for sharing! This town looks awesome :) This is why I like reading blogs! You find out so many nice places through there (I’m not on Pinterest, so I’m happy I found out through you :) )

Happy I could introduce you to it, Dominique! :-)

As a histoty buff, it makes me want to give Ronda a visit one day. The historical outset of Spanish towns that blend so well with nature and located far from the city excites me. Looks like one of those towns that troops could’ve garrisoned in during the Napoleonic Wars, and most probably the Spanish Civil War as well due to its geographical advantages. Thanks Lauren!

Oh, definitely. I think it played a large part on the Spanish Civil War (I’m not a history buff at all)

I was never a big fan of Spain until I visited the Andalucia region – Ronda, Granada, Casares, Las Alpujarras, Nerja – I loved them all. I only did a day trip to Ronda but it is definitely somewhere I would love to return to hike

Same! My family holidays to Mallorca and the touristy part of Valencia had me feeling ambivalent towards Spain. Now I’ve visited places that aren’t near a beach, I like it a lot more!

Amazing! I first learnt about this Spanish city in another article a couple of years ago. Recently I decided to look it up again, but I just couldn’t remember the name of the place! I’m very happy to be reading all about it again, this time with more information and prettier photos,

Oh, that makes me so happy, Daniela! That was perfect timing on my part then :-)

Awesome place! It’s amazing that this kinds of places exist in the world! Very beautiful!

It almost doesn’t look real, does it? :-)

HOW did I live in Granada for three months and never go here!? I feel I have failed – but reason to go back, I suppose. Looks incredible.

I’m glad I found this on my Google search as I am planning my 28 day Spain/Morocco trip in Jan/Feb. The end of my trip is 6 days in Barcelona that I felt would be a great base.

Have a fantastic time! Will you make it to Ronda?

This makes me really want to add Spain onto my itinerary backpacking Europe just to go here haha!! This place just looks SO beautiful. I don’t think I have enough time this trip though :(

I remember being in the planning stages of my trip and hating having to eliminate so many countries!

Amazing post, Lauren! Ronda has made it to my list now. It looks absolutely stunning. Thank you for sharing. P.S. – I also loved your post about Granada. Useful tips!

I’m so happy to hear that, Maria!

Seeing your photos of Ronda makes me yearn to go there, by hook or by crook. Now, what I need to do is some planning since most of my trips as of late have been day trips. The 5 to 6 hour travel can be daunting, but I think I can manage. I’ll just think of the spectacular shots I can get. Also, I don’t know if I can stay in one of those cliff side homes, pretty scary, don’t you think? Only for the brave!

Ha! They didn’t seem too bad, but then I didn’t get to stay in one and have to peer down into the gorge.

This was a really good read. Brought back all the memories of my trip to Ronda. The best thing about Ronda is that there are so many spots where you can just sit by, admire the views and just forget about the rest of the world! I always tell people Ronda is so much more than a day trip!

Absolutely agree! There’s so much to do and so many walks and trails to follow :-)

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Meet Lauren Juliff

Our Adventure Journal

17 Reasons You Need to Visit Ronda, Spain

Last Updated on April 9, 2024 by Kelly

Ronda is a beautiful town in Spain’s southern region of Andalusia. It’s known for its bridges, baths, bodegas, and bullfighting ring . Perched in the mountaintops, this quaint Spanish town spills over two sides of a steep gorge, with several bridges connecting the two halves of the city. Ronda is known as the City of Dreams , and I have to agree it merits the title. 

The first time I visited Ronda, it was during Semana Santa (Holy Week). I arrived at dark and my first glimpse of the bridge was at night. It was pitch black and I couldn’t see how far it reached below. Suffice it to say, the next morning I was stunned to see the enormity of the bridge!

I’ve visited Ronda numerous times over the years . (I used to live in Spain!) In this guide, I’m sharing my top 17 reasons why you should add Ronda to your Spain itinerary !

Best Things to See in Ronda

There are tons of reasons to visit Ronda, and here are 17 of our favorites!

1. Puente Nuevo (New Bridge)

Although the Puente Nuevo is called the new bridge, it was actually completed in 1793 . However, it is the newest of the 3 bridges that connect the two halves of Ronda. 

The Puente Nuevo is a majestic sight to behold. The towering bridge runs 120 meters (390 feet) deep into the gorge. If you’ve ever seen a postcard of Ronda, it’s likely that the Puente Nuevo bridge is the image depicted. It took 34 years to build the bridge.

The Puente Nuevo has a triple arch with giant stone columns. A  chamber above the central arch that was used as a guardhouse and a prison. Today you can enter the chamber for yourself as it now contains an exhibition about the bridge’s construction. 

I first saw the Puente Nuevo when I was in high school visiting Spain for a mini study-abroad field trip. We stopped in Ronda for a night and I hadn’t seen any photos of the town. Seeing the bridge for the first time was a travel memory I’ll never forget! Photos truly don’t do justice to the scale of the bridge when you see it in person.

2. Puente Viejo (Old Bridge)

The Puente Viejo is the second-oldest bridge in Ronda. It is the lowest of the 3 bridges and only carries pedestrian traffic.

The Puente Viejo was built in 1616. It’s believed that the Puente Viejo was built over the remnants of a pre-existing bridge. 

3. Puente Arabe (Moorish Bridge)

The Puente Arabe is sometimes called the Puente Romano (Roman Bridge). The bridge itself was built by the Moors, but it’s believed it was built over the remnants of a previous Roman bridge. This bridge was built at the end of the 14th century. This bridge is located just steps away from the town’s famous Arab baths. 

4. Arab Baths

One of the major things to see in Ronda is the Arab Baths ( Baños Arabes ). These are the best-preserved Moorish baths in all of Spain. The baths were operational from the 13th to the 16th centuries.

The bathhouse was built next to the entrance of the city, so its visitors could cleanse themselves before entering Ronda. 

The Arab Baths contain three primary rooms: a cold room, warm bathing room, and hot bathing room. The main room of the bathhouse features large arches and skylights carved in geometric patterns. When you visit the Arab Baths today, you’ll also see the Saqiya ( water pump tower) and the aqueduct.

When I visited the Arab Baths in Ronda, I enjoyed learning about the cultural and religious practices of the Moors. The bathhouse demonstrated excellent engineering for its time, and the architecture was beautiful.

5. Bullfighting Ring (Plaza de Toros)

Ronda is known as the birthplace of bullfighting, and the city’s Plaza de Toros seats over 5,000 people . The bullring is even larger than Madrid’s Plaza de Toros. The bullfighting ring was built in 1785 .

Currently, the Plaza de Toros hosts bullfighting only once a year for the Feria Goyesca de Pedro Romero that occurs each September.  

You can enter the bullfighting ring for a small admission price. We also recommend that you visit the adjacent museum. At the museum, you’ll be able to see bullfighting costumes and regalia, and learn about the history of bullfighting.

Fun fact: Pop-legend Madonna shot her video “Take a Bow” in this bullring. 

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I may earn commissions from qualifying purchases.

6. Puerta de Almocábar (Old City Gates)

Another location you’ll want to visit in Ronda is the Puerta de Almocábar. The old city gates were built in the 13th century and are massive. Technically there are two city gates. The Puerta de Almocabar is the first gate, and a later-built gate was named the Charles V Gate. 

Because Ronda was situated on the top of a hill, it had a strong defensive position. The old city walls created a fortress that helped to protect the city. 

7.  Walk Along the Alameda del Tajo

One of the most picturesque things to do in Ronda is to walk along the Alameda del Tajo. This public park consists of a promenade and balconies that overlook the gorge below. It’s the perfect place for scenic photos! The park also contains fountains and a duck pond. 

8. Palacio del Mondragón

The Palacio del Mondragón is one of the oldest buildings in Ronda. It was built in the 14th century and currently serves as a museum. King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella even made this palace their residence when they were in Ronda. Currently, the museum will provide you an overview of Ronda’s history. The building also contains a beautiful Moorish courtyard. 

9. Walk Down to the Gorge

One of the best views of Ronda is actually from the gorge below. From the river, you’ll be able to see the massive bridge and towering city. The path down to the gorge can be found in the Plaza de Maria Auxiliadora. 

10. Iglesia del Espíritu Santo (Church of the Holy Spirit)

The Iglesia del Espíritu Santo is a Christian church located in Ronda’s Old Town. King Ferdinand ordered the church to be built over the remains of a Moorish tower that was in the shape of an octagon. 

11. Museo Lara

The Museo Lara is a museum filled with items related to witchcraft, weapons, clocks, and more. The entire museum is from a private collection. There are 12 different rooms and there is a small admission price. 

12. La Casa del Rey Moro

This 18th-century building has hanging gardens, a water mine, and a Neo-Mudejar-style house. The palace gardens were my favorite part about visiting La Casa del Rey Moro. There’s a really beautiful old well with the most perfect backdrop.

13. Eat Tapas in Ronda

While you’re in Ronda, be sure to stop by a tapería (restaurant that serves tapas). 

Some places you might consider are:

• Taberna El Almacen: This restaurant is located just a few minutes’ walk away from the Puente Nuevo. This tapas bar has a large variety to choose form. (Address: C. Virgen de los Remedios, 7, 29400 Ronda, Málaga, Spain)
• Toro Tapas: This tapas bar is in the heart of Ronda. (Address: Carrera Espinel, 7, 29400 Ronda, Málaga, Spain)
• Restaurante Don Miguel: This hotel has excellent views, as well as a restaurant. Grab a drink and some tapas and enjoy! (Address: C. Rosario, 6, 29400 Ronda, Málaga, Spain)
• Restaurante Bardal: If you have the finances, you will definitely enjoy visiting Restaurante Bardal. This restaurant has one-Michelin star. Of course, you’ll dine on more than just tapas! (Address: C. José Aparicio, 1, 29400 Ronda, Málaga, Spain)

14. Visit a Winery in Ronda

Ronda is situated in an excellent wine region. In fact, the nearby Roman city of Acinipo was literally named “City of Wine”! Ronda produces all sorts of wines, including cabernet sauvignon, merlot, syrah, tempranillo, chardonnay, and sauvignon blanc. You can book a wine tour from Malaga , which also includes a vineyard lunch. 

15. Visit for a Festival

Whether you’re visiting Ronda during the Feria Goyesca de Pedro Romero, Carnaval, or Semana Santa, it’s always fun to see a Spanish town’s unique festivals.

I visited Ronda during the Semana Santa (Holy Week) festival. I was in high school visiting Spain over spring break, and I didn’t know anything about the traditions. When we arrived in Ronda, I heard loud music and followed the crowds. I saw a procession of Nazarenos, whose members are known as penitentes (penitent ones). They traditionally wear a capirote, which is a cone-shaped hat used in Catholic processions. Needless to say, my first thought as an American was an entirely different group!

16. See the Plaza de la Duquesa de Parcent

You can find the Plaza de la Duquesa de Parcent in La Ciudad side of Ronda. This is the main plaza, or central square, in Ronda. It’s also called the Plaza Mayor. This is the primary public gathering space in Ronda.

The gardens here are filled with cypresses, palm trees, and laurels. You can also find the Fuente de la Duquesa de Parcent (a beautiful fountain).

There are many beautiful monuments in this plaza, including the Iglesia de Santa Maria del Mayor . The church with its large bell tower was purposely built over the ruins of a mosque. The church took over 200 years to build and is filled with numerous architectural details. It’s worth staying in this plaza until the hour changes, because you just might hear the bells ringing. 

17. Visit La Melonera

La Melonera is a bodega (winery) located about a 20-minute drive outside of Ronda’s central city. The winery specializes in “forgotten grapes” of the region, such as La Melonera grape and the Blasco grape. You can book a guided experience of this winery, and we recommend that you make reservations in advance. The winery estate is gorgeous!

About Ronda

Ronda is one of the oldest cities in Spain.  

The El Tajo Gorge divides the city in two distinct halves. There are 3 bridges that connect the two sides of the city. The Guadalevín River runs through the gorge.

Ronda is divided into two halves: El Mercadillo (in the New Town) and La Ciudad (the Old Town). 

Early cave paintings in the  Cueva de la Pileta  demonstrate that people lived in the area at least since the Neolithic period (informally known as the Stone Age ). In the 6th century BC, the Celts arrived in Ronda and named the city  Arunda . Since that time, the Phoenicians, the Romans, the Carthaginians, and the Moors have all had settlements in Ronda. 

Ronda currently has a census of approximately 35,000 residents . Ronda has approximately 163,000 international tourists visit each year , making it one of the most popular destinations in Andalusia.

Tip: If you want to have a more quiet experience in Ronda, we recommend staying overnight. That way, you can see the city early in the morning before the crowds arrive by train and bus.

Ronda is known for being the birthplace of the Spanish bullfighting tradition. The city is also known for its Puente Nuevo , which is a large bridge that connects the city’s two halves. 

How to Get There

Ronda is a famous pueblo blanco (white town) in Spain’s southern region of Andalusia. Nestled in the hills, Ronda has unparalleled views of the El Tajo Gorge, the Sierra de la Nieves Natural Park, and the Serranía de Ronda (Ronda Mountain Range).

Ronda is easily reached as a day trip from several nearby cities, including Malaga (101 km away), Seville (133 km away), and Cadiz (144 km away). 

You can reach Ronda by car , although you should know that parking can be an issue. Ronda is a small town and there’s limited street parking. There are some garages, but just be sure to leave some time in your itinerary to navigate parking. During my third trip to Ronda, we took a car. It took us some time to find a parking spot, but we were ultimately successful. 

You can also take a bus to Ronda. I took the bus on my two other trips to Ronda. It was very easy to navigate the public transportation system, and the bus was comfortable.

Another option is to take a train to Ronda. The Ronda Train Station (run by ADIF) is located centrally in town. (It’s only a 13-minute walk from the train station to the famous bridge.) 

The nearest major airport to Ronda is the Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (airport code AGP).

Recommended Hotels

There are many beautiful hotels in Ronda. Here’s a few to consider:

Parador de Ronda : This 4-star hotel has excellent views of the gorge and the Puente Nuevo. The hotel is housed in Ronda’s previous Town Hall building. The hotel has large rooms, balconies with a view, and a gorgeous pool.

Hotel Montelirio: Another beautiful 4-star hotel with views of the gorge is Hotel Montelirio. The hotel is set in a 17th-century palace. The hotel has a seasonal outdoor pool, air conditoning, Turkish bath, and a restaurant.

Hotel Alavera de los Banos: If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option, this is a hotel you might want to consider. The hotel is located near the Arab Baths. 

About My Trips to Ronda

I’ve visited Ronda on at least 3 separate occasions. As I mentioned above, my first trip to Ronda was part of a travel-abroad excursion I took with my high school Spanish teacher and classmates. I was instantly drawn to the city and it left quite an impression on me.

Three years later, I decided to study abroad in Spain and I lived in Cadiz for a semester. My Spanish host-dad drove myself and two classmates to Marbella (a beautiful coastal town) and Ronda for a day-trip. Once again, I was charmed by the geography and architecture of Ronda.

Later that semester, my entire study abroad program visited Ronda as one of our planned excursions. During this visit, we learned more about its history. I especially enjoyed getting to visit the Arab Baths during this visit.

Even after having visited Ronda several times, I would gladly return to this beautiful Spanish city. Because of its central location in Andalusia, it’s possible to visit Ronda as a day trip from several prominent cities. However, if you have the time, I definitely think it’s worth spending at least one night in the city. There’s enough to see over two days, and even more importantly, it’s nice to have the time to soak in the views and not be rushed.

Disclaimer :  We always strive for content accuracy.   Since the time of publishing, travel-related information regarding pricng, schedules, and hours may have changed. Please look up such information directly from each vendor or institution for the most current information.

Hi, I’m Kelly!

After studying abroad in Spain, I became passionate about international travel. Since then, I’ve traveled to 6 continents and 36 states within the United States. When I’m not travel blogging, you can find me hiking, reading books in Spanish, or playing cribbage. I hope my blog inspires you to see the world!

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Plan unforgettable road trips!

30 best things to do in Ronda (Andalucia) in 1, 2 or 3 days

Last updated on August 28, 2023 by Claire Robinson - this article contains affiliate links. If you purchase through them, I get a small commission ( more )

Discover all the best things to do in Ronda, Andalucia and around:

• Bridge Puente Nuevo,
• Arab baths,
• Pueblos blancos…

Plus all my tips to spend 1, 2 or 3 days in Ronda: map, getting around, hotels…

Before my tips + photos, here are my favorites for Andalucia:

My favorite platform to rent a car in Andalucia: DiscoverCars

The unmissable visit: Alhambra and Nasrid Palaces

My favorite excursion from Seville: White villages and Ronda

My favorite places to stay:

• Seville , to explore the vibrant city – see best rated accommodations
• Cadiz , the charm by the sea  – see best rated accommodations
• Ronda , to explore the white villages – see best rated accommodations
• Nerja , pour la Costa del Sol – see best rated accommodations

Why visit? Best things to do in  Ronda, Spain

Is ronda worth visiting.

Ronda is definitely worth visiting. It is even one of my favorite destinations in Andalucia. There are lots to see in the town itself, with architectural elements from various periods, as well as many interesting places to visit within 1h drive.

What is Ronda famous for?

Ronda is famous for 2 reasons:

• The very deep chasm of the Guadalevin river in the middle of town with its bridge
• And as the birthplace of bullfighting .  The ring Plaza de Toros was built in 1785 by the architect who built the impressive Puente Nuevo.

Top 5 things to do in Ronda

I will introduce the best things to do in Ronda in more detail later in the article with photos and details. Here’s the list of my top 5:

• Visit the Bullfighting ring
• Get dizzy as you admire the bridge from above
• If you can, walk into the canyon, to admire the bridge from below
• Visit the Arab Baths and learn about the engineering behind it
• Explore at least one of the white villages around (pueblos blancos) e.g. Grazalema

More photos and things to do after the planning tips.

Planning Tips & Map – Ronda, Andalucia

Where is ronda located map .

• South of Spain
• In the Malaga Province, North West of Malaga
• Malaga to Ronda = 1h30 drive
• Sevilla to Ronda = 1h45 drive
• Cadiz to Ronda = 1h40 drive
• Below is a map to help you get oriented:

All my favorite locations are included (with GPS coordinates and practical tips) in my Travel Guide eBook that helps you easily plan your road trip around Andalucia :

Plan your dream trip in Andalucia thanks to my guide

• 7 maps to easily plan your itinerary
• 150+ pre-selected locations
• GPS + tips to make the most of your time
• 300+ original photos to help you choose

How to get to Ronda

• by car – it is located in the Ronda mountains, but the drive is not difficult.You can easily drive there.
• by bu s – public transport available from Malaga, Marbella, Seville and more.
• by organized tour from Seville – book a day trip to explore some white villages and Ronda – see program and availability
• from Malaga or Costa del Sol – book a day trip to visit Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas – see program and availability

Need to rent a car in Andalucia?

• Compare prices on my favorite platform:   Discovercars.com – one of the best rated comparison sites!
• Don’t take a car too large, since village streets can be narrow
• Consider their full coverage option – it for peace of mind! 
• Book early to have a large choice of vehicles!

See all my tips

Parking in Ronda

• It is almost impossible to find a parking spot in the city center.
• The best option is to park in a commercial car park outside the city center.
• Parking Martinez Astein, Parking El Castillo or the parking at the train station (Parking Renfe) are some of the best options.
• If your property is close to the center, it is best to leave your car in the hotel carpark. 
• Street areas marked with a yellow line have limited period parking and must be avoided. 

Best time to visit Ronda

• The best time to visit Jerez is Spring or Autumn when the weather is pleasant.
• July and August are pretty hot, and it is best to avoid visiting Jerez during these months.
• February and March can also be interesting as it is less crowded
• Best to visit on a weekday

Getting around – Touristic map

• The best way to explore Ronda is on foot, as vehicles are not allowed inside the old center.
• Most of the key attractions are not too far from each other. 
• no hop-on-hop-off buses 
• You can also book a guided walking tour – see program
• However, reaching the Arab baths require a lot of walking downhill or driving
• all around town you can find maps with all the highlights in town
• or take a carriage

Visit Tips 

• avoid heels, there are old pavements and lots to explore
• it gets busy during the day with day trippers, stay at least one night to enjoy it after the tourists have left
• plan at least 1 day to explore the town itself
• you can also stay several nights as a base to explore the region
• it is easy to explore the old town, however the Arab baths or the view at the bottom of the bridge are not easy to access
• lots of restaurants and shops

Where to stay in Ronda

You can stay:

• In the Old town, for historical buildings
• In the newer part of town, busier with access to restaurants
• In the countryside around, for cheaper options

Best places to stay in Ronda – accommodation suggestions

• where I stayed I stayed at Apartamentos Rondacentro. Located right next to the bridge, they include a carpark and views of both city and countryside. I really enjoyed my stay. see photos and availability
• 4-star Hotel Catalonia Ronda is right in the center of town, with an infinity pool overlooking the Plaza del Toros. see photos and availability
• Private apartment Apartamento Calle Nueva is well located and modern. see photos and availability
• Boutique hotel in countryside Hotel Boutique Molino del Arco will charm you with olive trees, garden, pool and lots of light. see photos and availability

See hotel deals in Ronda

Where to stay in Andalucia?

My favorites on a road trip:

• In Sevilla, to explore the vibrant city – see best rated accommodations
• In Cadiz, the charm by the sea  – see best rated accommodations
• In Ronda, to explore the white villages – see best rated accommodations
• In Granada, for the history – see best rated accommodations
• In Nerja, pour la Costa del Sol – see best rated accommodations

#1 to 5 – Admire the Chasm and Puente Nuevo

#1 – walk on the puente nuevo bridge & admire from the top.

The Puente Nuevo Bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ronda. It is a bridge that connects the old town with the new town. It was built in the 18th century using locally sourced material and stands at a height of 98 meters.

During the Spanish War, it was used to throw prisoners to death. 

Today, you can stand on the bridge to take in the spectacular views of this Andalusian town. 

#2 – See the bridge from the East bank (Mirador de Aldehueda)

There are various places across the town from where you can see the bridge. But the one from the East bank (Mirador de Aldehueda) is one of the best. 

This viewpoint is right next to the bridge on the left, in front of the convent.  The place can get busy with tourists during the day. But it is still worth visiting this place for a few pictures. 

From here, you can see the bridge, the river Guadalevin as well as the town at the back. 

#3 – Walk down to Mirador La Hoja del Tajo

You can drive down by car to the viewpoint (without the waterfall). Don’t try to walk down that road, it is made of large rocks.

If you are on foot, take the path starting in the old town at Puerta de los molinos. Your first stop will be #5 and then down to #4. (Lots of stairs and slope).

• The views from the car access offer a better overall impression with the cliffs – 15min drive down from the city center
• The miradors on the walking path offer a closer look at the bridge and views of the waterfall under it – Plan 1h
• Best close to sunset for the colors of the cliffs and bridge

#4 – See the bridge with the waterfall (path via Puerta de los Molinos)

As I wrote in the section before, don’t miss the closer view of the bridge, with the waterfall of the Guadalevin river. It might not flow much though…

#5 – Bridge guardhouse museum

Beneath one of the central arches of the bridge, was a chamber that was used to torture prisoners of the Civil War. To enter the chamber, you had to go through a guardhouse. 

Today, the guardhouse has been converted into a small museum. Visit the museum for insights into the bridge’s history. 

#6 to 8 – Admire the Bullring Plaza de Toros

#6 – look at the impressive statues outside .

Plaza de Toros in Ronda plays a huge role in the history of bullfighting. Make sure you take your time admiring the entire complex.

Look at the impressive statues outside and in particular the Monumento al Toro or the great bull statue. A close look at the statue gives us an idea of the strength and the beauty of the bull. 

#7 – Enter the Arena

The Plaza de Toros was built between 1779 and 1785. It has a diameter of 66m or 217ft. It is much smaller than many other arenas in Spain. But the fighting ring itself is the largest. 

It has a capacity of 5000 seats. 

It is unique as it is entirely made of stone and its seating arena is fully covered. 

• Opening hours: Open at least 10am to 6pm (some months later)
• Entry Fee: 8€ – Plan 30min to 1h30 depending on your interest for the museum 

#8 – Learn about the history of bullfighting in the museum

The arena has a small but informative museum. The museum showcases a collection of bullfighting costumes and weapons. It’s an excellent place to understand the history of bullfighting and the noble order of horsemanship. 

I don’t drink coffee

But I also like other drinks and sweets! Do you like the free content you find on my blog? All my tips and practical information, without intrusive advertising…

#9 to 14 – Explore the rest of the Old Center 

#9 – town gate.

To explore the Old Center, start from the southern end. This is where you will see the tall Town gate from where you can enter the old center.

The Town gate or ‘Puerta de Almocabar’ dates back to the 13th century Islamic period.

#10 – Old town streets

Walking down the well preserved old streets gives you a real life feel of the old times.

The old town is charming. The streets are narrow and the entire town can be easily covered on foot. 

#11 – Iglesa de Santa Maria la Major

This Church is one of the most interesting monuments in Ronda. It was built over the remains of a 13th century mosque. It’s a blend of various major architectural styles. 

Its façade looks ordinary and not too inviting, but the inside is surprisingly opulent and awe-inspiring. Once inside, admire the beautiful colourful main altar and side altars. Look out for a small wooden door inside that takes you to the top. 

You will have to climb 76 stairs to get to the top. But from the top, you get to enjoy a panoramic view of three sides of the town (not the bridge-end though). It’s all free and worth a visit. 

#12 – Mirador & Jardines de Cuenca

The Jardines de Cuenca are botanical gardens. You can admire the rose plantation here or spend some time taking in the view of the Ronda bridges from the Mirador. 

This is one of the best free viewpoints in Ronda to capture its three bridges and the gorge.  Opening hours: 8 am to 10 pm

#13 – Plaza del Socorro & Iglesia de Nuestra Senora del Socorro

Plaza del Socorro is an impressive square in the middle of the Old Town. The square holds historic significance for being the place where the Andalusian flag was first unfurled.

The square has some of the best restaurants and cafés in Ronda. Perfect for taking a mini-break when walking around town. 

A prominent monument in this square is the Nuestra Senora Church.  Two prior churches stood in the place of this church from the 16th century. Both of them were demolished during different periods in history.  And the present church was built as late as 1956.

#14 – Mirador de Ronda

Mirador de Ronda is yet another viewpoint in Ronda. This viewpoint overlooks the gorge and is excellent for appreciating the mountains surrounding Ronda. 

#15 to 19 – Museums and historical buildings to visit

#15 – ronda arab baths.

The Arab Baths in Ronda are one of the best preserved structures from the Arab times. 

These baths were built between the 13th and the 15th century and stood outside the city walls next to a mosque. Purification of the body at the bath was a prerequisite for entering the adjoining mosque. 

When you visit the Baths, you can see three distinct rooms (providing water at three different temperatures – cold, warm and hot) as well as the water supply chain to these baths.

The great video about how the baths used to function The beautiful arches and roof openings – the ruins are in great condition to understand how it was set up The nearby small bridge over the canyon

• 3.50€ – Plan 45min
• Open 10am to 6pm (only up to 3pm on Sat and Sun)
• 25min walk from Plaza de Toros (downhill)

#16 – La Casa Del Rey Moro

This historic structure contains a water mine, an old house and a garden.

The water mine is what draws the most interest. Its a 14th century structure used to supply water to the residents of the walled city in times of seige. Christian slaves would form a chain to transport water from the mine to the top.

• You have to climb down 350 steps to see the water mine. 
• The structure is poorly maintained, slippery and physically tiring. 
• Visit it to understand the mine’s role in the defense of Ronda.

The Neo-Mudejar styled house built in 1911 is being restored and is not open for tourists. There is a small cliff-top garden in this complex as well. 

#17 – Palacio de Mandragon

This is a 14th century Moorish Palace of King Abomalic I. Over the years, it was awarded to the Valenzuela family and the Mondragon family. 

When you visit the palace, 

•  observe the beautiful patios – still unchanged from the Moorish times
• visit the city museum housed inside
• check out the beautiful water features in the gardens

Opening hours: Mon – Fri 9 am to 7 pm, Sat-Sun 10 am to 3 pm Entry Fee: 3€

#18 – Casa Museo Don Bosco

This modernist building was built in 1850 and later redone in the 20th century.

The place has a small shop-like opening. But on the inside, you will find

• locally handcrafted furniture and ceramics dating back a couple of centuries
• a garden located on the edge of ‘el Tajo’ offering spectacular views of the bridge and the gorge

The place is more peaceful than many crowded touristic viewpoints in the city. 

• Opening hours: 10 am to 8 pm (Sunday 10 am to 7 pm)
• Entry fee: 2.5€

#19 – Museo Lara

Museo Lara is a one-of-a-kind museum with the most eclectic collection of objects. The museum’s exhibits are a personal collection of the promoter Juan Antonio Lara Jurado. The objects range from jewelery, watches, cameras, torture objects and witchcraft. Those interested can easily spend 1.5 hours here. 

• Opening hours: 11 am to 7 pm (11 am to 8 pm in summer)
• Entry fee: 4€

#20 to 30 – things to do around Ronda

#20 – acinipo ruins.

Small archeological site off the beaten track. The main feature is what remains of the Roman theater including part of the wall from the 1 st century AD. The site also offers beautiful views of the surrounding countryside and mountains. Part of the ruins are even from a Bronze age settlement.

• Ronda to Acinipo = 30min drive
• Plan 40minutes
• Closed on Mondays – Tue to Sat – 10am to 5pm – Sun: 9am to 2pm (in theory)

#21 – Setenil de las Bodegas

Probably one of the most famous villages in Andalucia, because of the streets under the cliffs. The white houses embedded in the rock are quite a sight. The village has existed since the 12 th century, but it is possible that people have been settling here since well before. The area is famous for its meat (chorizo, sausage…) that you can buy in many shops.

• Ronda to Setenil = 20min drive
• Plan 2h – or more if you eat in one of the cave house
• Easy access to the 2 main streets, some stairs to the various miradors – lots of signs to find the places of interest
• learn more in my article

#22 – Zahara de la Sierra

One of the most dramatic white villages in the area, with a fort on top of a rocky promontory and the turquoise lake under it (Embalse de Zahara el Gastor). Originally, it was a Moorish outpost at a strategic location between Seville and Ronda

• Ronda to Zahara de la Sierra = 40min
• Free access
• Plan 1 to 2h to explore
• Village on a hill – steep slopes from the carpark

And don’t miss the view of the village from the bridge.

Park and walk on the bridge over the lake. Better light in the afternoon (not like in my picture).

#23 – Road to Puerto de las Palomas

Force your trip between Zahara de La Sierra and Grazalema, to go up the mountain through Puerto de la Palomas. The road is not wide and winding, but worth the effort!  The views over the Zahara-el Gastor Lakeare breathtaking.

#24 – Grazalema

Beautiful and well maintained white village niched in a high valley (800m – 2625ft altitude). The white houses with red roofs are surrounded by limestone peaks and lush vegetation. The whole scenery is very picturesque, and the cobbled streets deserve a visit. It is my favorite village in the area.

• Ronda to Grazalema = 45min
• Plan at least 2h to look at it from various angles
• Slight slope from the carpark and inside the village

And don’t miss the magnificent drive to get there from the North, the mountain range is stunning!

#25 – The drive North of Montejaque through Sierra de Grazalema

On the drive between Montejaque and Grazalema (just north of Montejaque), you can enjoy a beautiful mountain range. And as you approach Montejaque on MA-8403, you enjoy steep rock formations around Rio Gaduares.

#26 – Montejaque

A tiny village with small white houses surrounded by mountains. It is nestled between 2 bluffs. It is less developed or touristic than the other villages around. Some houses are still in bad shape. Thanks to that, you can see how they really were before being updated into tourist accommodations.

• Ronda to Montejaque = 25min
• plan 30min to 1h
• On a hill side – narrow cobbled streets
• driving in this village is complicated

#27 – Cueva del Gato

Cueva del Gato is a cave near Ronda known for its cold spring waters. Most tourists visit this place for a refreshing swim. 

Entry to the cave is not permitted. But you can swim in the water nearby.  It is best to come here in the afternoon during summer months, if not the water is just too cold for a swim. 

• It is about a 20-minute drive away from Ronda.
• Plan 1h at this place
• Parking costs 1€ and entry to the pool 2€

#28 – Cueva de la Pileta

Cueva de la Pileta is about a 30-minute drive away from Ronda. They are known for their colourful drawings. Some drawings are over 25000 years old and the color and the lines are still intact.  

Visit details:

• A tour to the cave needs to be booked in advance.
• Entrance to the cave involves climbing up a few steep stairs. Be prepared.
• The walk around the caves can also involve some climbing. Wear good shoes.
• They’re no toilets in the area.
• The temperature inside the cave is much cooler and it is great to be visited during the Summer months. 

#29 – Beaches closest to Ronda: Marbella (Costa del Sol)

The closest beaches to Ronda are those around Marbella on the Costa del Sol. Plan 1h10 drive through the mountains.

#30 – Wineries

Visiting a winery in Ronda is an excellent half-day activity. 

You can choose from a variety of Bodegas around Ronda like 

• Bodegas Fernandez Bolet
• Bodegas Viejos
• Bodegas Sangre
• Bodegas Lunares
• Bodegas Conrad

The speciality is mostly rosé or red wine because of Ronda’s altitude. 

A typical wine tour will take you 2 hours and will consist of a tour around the winery followed by wine tasting. 

And keep track of your own trip!

1, 2 or 3 days in Ronda – itineraries

How do i spend a day in ronda .

My suggested itinerary is:

• Admire the bridge from above
• Visit Plaza de Toro
• Walk around the old town
• Visit the Palacio de Mandragon
• Get down to the Arab Baths
• And down to the view of the Bridge from below

2 days in Ronda

• Admire the sunset from Mirador de Ronda
• Visit the Acinipo Ruins 
• Visit the unique village of Setenil de la Bodegas
• Visit the white village of Grazalema

3 days in Ronda

• Visit Montejaque
• Visit one of the caves (Gato or Pileta)
• And head to Costa del Sol, if you want some beach time or visit a winery

About the name Ronda

The first recorded name of this city is ‘Arunda’.   Records suggest that the name was bestowed upon it during the times of Romanisation.  Arunda means ‘surrounded by mountains’.  Over the years, the name changed from Arunda to Ronda.  Ronda is also referred to as the ‘the Eagle’s Nest’ for its mountain-top location. 

Is one day enough for Ronda? How much time do I need?

Yes, one day is enough if you visit only the old town of Ronda. You can cover a lot. However, if you want to explore the villages around or visit a winery, you need longer, 2 or 3 days.

Is Ronda on the coast?

Ronda is a mountaintop location situated at a height of about 2540 meters. The closest coastal town to Ronda is Costa del Sol situated at a distance of 61 kms from Ronda.

Is Ronda safe?

Ronda is one of the safest places in Andalucia with no known instances of physical violence involving tourists. But because of its popularity as a tourist destination, it is best to watch out for pickpockets and exercise basic caution.

Do you need a car in Ronda?

To see the old town, you don’t need a car. But to explore the magnificent region, it is really the best option!

Want to see more of the best Andalucia has to offer?

• Best landscapes in Andalucia in 40 pictures – read article
• 24 best things to do in Andalucia – read article (to be published)
• 17 most beautiful white villages in Andalucia – read article
• 20 best beaches in Andalucia – read article
• 21+ best cities and towns in Andalucia – read article
• Best castles and forts in Andalucia – read article (to be published)
• Cordoba vs Sevilla vs Granada – where to go? – read article
• Tips to plan a road trip around Andalucia – read article

Planning a trip to Andalucia?

Check out my travel guide to help you plan:

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Riveting Ronda, Spain: Things to Do + Travel Guide

Within a few minutes of arriving, Ronda, Spain catapulted itself into being one of our favorite destinations in the country.

Between the beautiful light, easy walkability, convenient location, the magnificent views, and the many things to do in Ronda, we were immediately captivated by this small Andalucian town.

Naturally divided in two by the beautiful El Tajo de Ronda Gorge, Ronda is visually stunning and offers gorgeous views from dozens of angles.

While Ronda is a popular day trip destination in southern Spain, we based ourselves there for several days and cannot recommend the experience more.

Here’s what to do in Ronda, Spain–plus what to know before you go!

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The Best Things to Do in Ronda Spain

Marvel at the puerto nuevo from all angles..

Indisputably the top attraction in Ronda, the striking Puerto Nuevo plunges 120 meters into the El Tajo de Ronda Gorge, connecting the two sides of this naturally divided city.

Despite being earnestly named “New Bridge”, Puerto Nuevo dates to 1793–though, to be fair, that does still make it the newest of the three bridges in town!

Many of the best things to do in Ronda involve catching glimpses of this bridge from one angle or another–more on that below–and each view is lovely in its own way.

There’s also a small museum inside the former guardhouse.

Be sure to stroll across it at least once during your stay, too!

Stroll along the Alameda del Tajo.

If you’re looking for the perfect sunset spot in Ronda, look no further than the Alameda del Tajo.

This romantic, popular park includes balconies overlooking Puerto Nuevo, the gorge, and the surrounding countryside.

It’s one of those places that simply takes your breath away with its beauty, and visiting more than once during your trip to Ronda should definitely be part of your plans!

Explore the Cuenca Gardens.

Winding, curved terraces perched on the edge of the El Tajo Gorge, framed by the Puerto Viejo on one side and the Puerto Nuevo on the other: these are the Cuenca Gardens, one of the best places to visit in Ronda!

The gardens are fairly small and don’t take long to see, but be sure to stop and enjoy the varying views you get from the different levels.

Learn about local history and culture at the Plaza del Toros.

If the Puerto Nuevo is the most famous structure in Ronda, Spain, the Plaza del Toros–or bullfighting ring–is undoubtedly the second most famous.

Distasteful though the sport may be, one of the undeniable facts about Spain is that bullfighting has been part of Andalusia’s culture for hundreds of years, and a peek behind the curtain makes for an interesting attraction in Ronda.

Dating to 1785 and holding 5,000 spectators, the Plaza del Toros is no doubt an impressive building–standing in the center of it, perhaps unsurprisingly, reminded us of standing on the floor of the Colosseum in Rome .

The attached museum covers far more than simply the history of bullfighting, including the Royal Riding School that dates to 1572.

The local dynastic bullfighting Romero and Ordóñez families are also covered.

Today, one bullfight a year is held in Ronda, during the Pedro Romero Fair in September.

Pay a visit to the Arab Baths.

Considered to be the best-preserved Arab Baths on the Iberian Peninsula, Ronda’s Arab Baths are fascinating to visit–especially if you’ve already seen some of the features incorporated into a modern hammam in the area.

Dating to the 13th century, these baths were used for both practical and ritualistic reasons and were situated next to the local mosque (Muslims traditionally wash before prayer).

The baths are a compelling look into Ronda’s past, and visiting is definitely one of the best activities in Ronda!

Make your way across the Puerto Viejo.

Built in 1616, the Puerto Viejo is the second of the 3 bridges that cross the El Tajo de Ronda Gorge.

And, despite its name, it is not the oldest bridge of the three!

With a view of the Arab Bridge and the Arab Baths to one side, the Cuenca Gardens to the other, and the 16th century Carlos V Gate at one end, you can see quite a few Ronda attractions when admiring the views from the Puerto Viejo!

Check out the Bridge of San Miguel (also known as the Arab Bridge).

This tiny bridge of many names has been called the Roman Bridge, the Bridge of San Miguel, and the Arab Bridge.

But, whatever you call it, the bridge definitely has Moorish construction and is the smallest and oldest of Ronda’s 3 bridges across the Guadalevin River.

Walk through the Almocabar Gate.

Dating in part to the 13th century, this imposing stone gate is a visual reminder of the fact that for most of its history, Ronda has been incredibly focused on defense.

Today, the gate is a quick walk away from many other top activities in Ronda, and is easy to add to your list of places to visit!

Visit the Mondragon Palace.

Today, the Mondragon Palace is home to Ronda’s Municipal Museum, which explores nearly 3,000 years worth of history on this small ridge!

One of the biggest draws to the palace, though, is not exactly an exhibit in the traditional sense–it’s the beautiful courtyard that retains Moorish decor dating (in parts) to the 1300s.

With a very modest entry fee and plenty to see, it’s well worth adding the Mondragon Palace to your list of what to do in Ronda, Spain.

Marvel at the Casa del Rey Moro.

Featuring the impressive 14th-century Water Mine and gorgeous hanging gardens, Casa del Rey Moro is a sight to behold in Ronda!

You can see the estate perched across the gorge from the Cuenca Gardens, but if you’d like to get a closer look, the Water Mine and the gardens are both open to visitors.

The house itself is currently undergoing restorations, check their website for updates.

Wander through the El Tajo de Ronda Gorge.

As the gorge that famously divides Ronda in half and the home of the famous Puerto Nuevo, there’s no doubt that one of the best attractions in Ronda is the El Tajo de Ronda Gorge!

You can walk into the gorge from the surface of the town, or drive down into it and hike toward Puerto Nuevo from there.

Keep in mind that “hike” is a bit of an extreme word here–you can enjoy the iconic views of Puerto Nuevo from the gorge within 5-10 minutes of walking.

You don’t need to go all the way down to the floor of the gorge in order to experience the best views of Puerto Nuevo, but if you want to reach the river or are looking for a workout, you certainly can!

Fun Places to Visit Near Ronda

While there are clearly plenty of fun things to do in Ronda, one of the many benefits of staying in town is access to several easy and fun day trips.

Here are some of the most unique places to visit within a short drive of Ronda!

Setenil de las Bodegas

Overlooked by a castle that started its life as a Moorish fortress and featuring whitewashed streets, Setenil de las Bodegas is, in many ways, a charming but standard pueblo blanco… except in the ways that it’s not.

Many streets in this interesting town are built directly into the surrounding gorge, including some places where a gigantic rock overhang turns the small street into a tunnel!

The effect is as mesmerizing as it is practical: you can thank defensibility and naturally occurring air conditioning for the town’s fascinating atmosphere.

Even if you’re visiting Ronda on a day trip, you can book a tour that includes Setenil de las Bodegas as well!

Acinipo Ruins

Believed to date to the 9th century BCE, Acinipo was once a thriving city–but today, it is a hidden gem close to Ronda.

There are several ruins to visit here, including Roman baths and prehistoric homes, but the most visually striking ruin is no doubt the remains of the Roman forum.

Visitors can’t walk over the forum, but looking down into it is quite the sight!

You can easily combine a visit to the Acinipo Ruins with a visit to Setenil de las Bodegas, just make sure to plug both stops into your GPS so you take the correct route.

You can check the hours for Acinipo here .

Nicknamed the “Blue Village of Spain” or “Spain’s Smurf Village, Juzcar is one of the most unique-looking towns in Andalucia!

Once a standard pueblo blanco, in 2011 Sony approached the people of Juzcar about painting their town blue to promote the upcoming Smurf movie.

One thing led to another, and more than a decade later, Juzcar is still blue (and also features lots of Smurf artwork).

It’s a tiny, quiet village, but definitely a fun stop on an Andalucia road trip!

Cueva del Gato

This popular cave-slash-swimming-hole is an incredibly fun way to cool off if you’re visiting Ronda in summer!

It costs a couple of Euros to swim over the summer, so bring small bills/coins with you.

If you just want to catch a glimpse of the landscape in the off-season, there is no charge.

We loved the opportunity to enjoy a bit of nature here!

Where to Stay in Ronda, Spain

We can’t rave about our stay at  Catalonia Reina Victoria  enough–it may just be one of our favorite hotels we’ve ever stayed in!

Unbeatable views over the countryside (we upgraded to a terrace room, which was absolutely worth it), excellent customer service, comfortable rooms, easy parking on site, and walking distance to all the best things to do in Ronda–it’s hard to beat that!

The popular  Hotel Montelirio , with views of the Puerto Nuevo, is also a great option.

Of course, since the surrounding landscape is so stunning and finding parking in the city center is fairly simple, you may want to go the complete opposite route and stay in a country hotel just outside of town!

The beautiful and well-reviewed  Hotel Cortijo Las Piletas  is located a 15-minute drive from Ronda, offers a pool, gorgeous views, and a bit of peace and quiet to enjoy between visiting the best Ronda attractions.

Check rates & book your stay in Ronda today!

Getting To + Around Ronda

When it comes to enjoying the best activities in Ronda, the best way to get to town is easily by car.

We visited Ronda as part of an Andalucia road trip and loved the freedom of exploring destinations away from the center.

The fact that parking in Ronda is simpler than in many hilltop towns, with plenty of garages and lots to choose from, also contributes to this.

If you’re planning to road trip to Ronda, we recommend renting a small car through  Discover Cars , which will allow you to compare the prices and inclusions of multiple companies at the same time and choose the best car for you from there.

Check rates and book your rental car  today!

However, if you’re only hoping to explore the center of Ronda, a car is far from necessary!

Trains to Ronda are infrequent and generally require at least one change along the way, but visiting by train is doable with a bit of advance planning and flexibility.

Buses tend to be simpler than trains and run regularly from popular Andalucian cities and towns.

For trains and buses, we highly recommend checking schedules and ticket prices with Omio .

Check schedules and shop train and bus tickets to Ronda today!

If you’d like to take a day trip to Ronda, there are extremely popular tours that run from Seville and Malaga , making it easy to explore for a day without sorting out transportation.

Once you’re in Ronda, the center of town is extremely walkable–most of the best attractions in Ronda itself lie within a very short walk (or even within sight) of each other!

When to Visit Ronda, Spain

The best time to explore Ronda is less of a season and more of a time of day: in the early mornings, late afternoons, and evenings, when the bulk of the day-trippers either haven’t arrived or have already left.

Since Ronda is a popular day trip from Malaga and Seville , the town becomes much more peaceful when the day trippers are not there.

Other than that, Ronda is a true year-round destination!

Weather-wise, summer is the least ideal time to explore the best things to do in Ronda, as the crowds are at their largest and the weather is hot.

Ronda doesn’t get nearly as scorching as nearby cities like Seville, though–August temperatures average a high of 83 ° F (about 28 ° C).

Winters are very mild, with January typically being the coldest month of the year.

Most of the photos in this Ronda blog post were snapped in February!

About Kate Storm

In May 2016, I left my suburban life in the USA and became a full-time traveler. Since then, I have visited 50+ countries on 5 continents and lived in Portugal, developing a special love of traveling in Europe (especially Italy) along the way. Today, along with my husband Jeremy and dog Ranger, I’m working toward my eventual goal of splitting my life between Europe and the USA.

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RONDA, SPAIN – A PICTURE PERFECT WHITE VILLAGE OF ANDALUSIA

Ronda, Spain is the most impressive example of the famous whitewashed towns (Pueblos Blancos) of Andalusia. If you only have time to visit one of them, go to Ronda! Surrounded by pristine mountain scenery, the town delivers thrilling views of the dramatic landscape over a deep canyon. The old section impresses with the narrow streets among whitewashed buildings and its main attraction, Puente Nuevo bridge. Come for a day or stay for a week to appreciate all it has to offer. In this post, you will learn how to visit and what to do in Ronda, Spain.

Ronda, Spain – A Picture Perfect White Village of Andalusia

My two-week trip to Southern Spain included most of the area’s top attractions, including my favorite Seville and Nerja . Initially, Ronda did not score high on the list of must-sees in the region. Its location, quite far from the main route of my itinerary, did not help its ranking. But I wanted to experience at least one of Andalusia’s charming white villages, and in the end, Ronda became a clear winner.

How to get to Ronda, Spain

Driving to ronda.

Renting a car is the best way to access this relatively remote region of Andalusia. I suggest taking route A-397 if approaching from the coastal area in the south. With every twist and turn, you will be climbing higher into the mountains for one spectacular view after another.

Remember, when renting a car in Spain, you will need to have an international driver’s license. Although car rental companies may accept your domestic state driver’s license, Spain police require you to carry one.

Parking in Ronda

Parking in Ronda is almost impossible. Pay attention! If a curb is painted with any color, you are not allowed to park there. Do not drive into the city center in the hope of finding a space. Some hotels provide parking garages, but they are hard to find and even harder to maneuver. Here is where to park in Ronda, Spain.

Excursion to Ronda from other parts of Andalusia

If you do not have a car or you are afraid of driving in the mountains, consider taking a bus tour to Ronda. Most tourists arrive from major cities like Seville, Malaga, and Granada. Of course, you will be paying more for convenience, and you will only have a few hours to explore, but it is still worth it.

Bus service to Ronda

You can get to Ronda by bus from Seville, Malaga, Marbella, Cadiz, Algeciras, and Fuengirola.

Trains to Ronda

With two trains per day, you can travel directly to Ronda from Madrid. There are decent connections to larger cities in Andalucía with both Cordoba and Malaga less than two hours away by train.

How long to stay in Ronda, Spain

Ronda is very compact, so you can see its major attractions in a few hours, but you should not rush through it. Spend time wandering its narrow streets lined with wonderful coffee shops, tapas bars, and restaurants. For the best experience, stay at least one night. If time is not an issue, there is enough to do in Ronda for a week or longer.

What to do in Ronda, Spain

Take a walk to puente nuevo.

The Puente Nuevo in Ronda (new bridge) connects two parts of the city known as El Mercadillo and La Ciudad, which are separated by the El Tajo Gorge. The bridge and spectacular views from it make Ronda stand out from other white villages of Andalusia.

Visit Plaza de Toros in Ronda (bullfighting ring)

Because of Ronda’s small size and isolated location, the ring does not host as many bullfights as other larger venues in Andalusia, Seville for example. The Ronda Bullring was inaugurated in 1785. Today it is one of the most emblematic sites of bullfighting.

In 1993 it was declared a Bien de Interés Cultural (BIC) (Heritage of Cultural Interest). Underneath the bullring’s seats lies the Bullfighting Museum. You can also learn there about the aristocracy of the Real Maestranza equestrian school, one of the oldest and most prestigious in Europe.

Hike El Tajo Gorge

This hiking trail delivers the best views of the town and the Puente Nuevo. You can easily see it from the bridge, but finding the beginning of the trail requires wandering around Ronda’s narrow streets and even asking for directions. But once you are on it, you will enjoy its every turn.

No need to go to the very bottom of the gorge to appreciate the views and find photo opportunities.

Visit a winery

Bodegas la sangre de ronda winery.

I had no idea that Ronda had a long winemaking history until I stumbled upon this winery. Its charming patio triggered my attention first, and then I noticed it was a winery too! I did not need any more convincing to walk in and check it out. For a few Euros, you can visit a small winemaking museum and taste the wines.

We were the only two guests at the time of our visit ( a rainy day in November). After the tour of the museum, the guide gave us glasses and left us unattended among barrels of wine! I guess she figured that the old folks could not do much damage. Wrong!

Here you will find ten top wineries in Ronda, Spain. 

Visit Alameda del Tajo Gardens

Stroll the streets of Ronda

Ronda’s narrow streets impress with interesting architecture, museums, churches, and charming restaurants. Shops offered linens, clothing, ceramics, and leather goods at reasonable prices. Take frequent brakes to try local cuisine!

Take a longer hike around Ronda

Ronda’s stunning location calls to explore nature around dit. I did not have enough time to truly hike but judging by the views, it must be very rewarding. Here are six best walks around Ronda, Spain.

Hotels in Ronda

Since parking in Ronda is difficult, choose your hotel wisely. If you are arriving by car, make sure that your hotel offers parking spaces. Lodging slightly outside of town offers better parking and bigger hotel rooms. If you do not have a car, stay centrally to be able to walk to all major attractions.

Most hotels in Ronda are small but inexpensive and charming. Here are the best hotels in Ronda.

Hotel Maestranza, Ronda

I decided on the Hotel Maestranza. I loved its central location close to major attractions and the fact that it provided parking. It was the right choice. The hotel’s staff was very helpful. The rooms were clean and inviting.

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4 thoughts on “ RONDA, SPAIN – A PICTURE PERFECT WHITE VILLAGE OF ANDALUSIA ”

Wow, this place looks incredible. Richard has been to Quenca, Spain and says it looks very similar. I`d love to go one day. Great post! Maggie

Thank you. I was trying to look it up, and I found Cuenca, not Quenca.:) It looks amazing! Thank you for pointing it out to me. I will keep it on my list for the next trip to Spain.

Oh my spelling is probably wrong. I should have known, I’ve been to Cuenca Peru!

I found it anyway and that what counts!

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13 ultimate bucket list things to do in Ronda, Spain (+map!)

Ronda is one of the most iconic towns and one of the most famous places in Andalusia and in Spain. With the spectacular Puente Nuevo bridge over the deep El Tajo gorge it is a landmark place for any visitor to Spain. Here are the ultimate bucket list things to do in Ronda!

In this blog post, you will find all the places with descriptions, photos, and locations where they can be found on Google Maps . We really loved Ronda and all it had to offer – walking the cobblestone streets definitely felt like stepping back in time! Happy exploring!

Read more » 15 most famous Instagram photo spots in Ronda, Spain

TABLE OF CONTENTS »

1. Walk across the famous Puente Nuevo bridge (or take a look inside it!)

Puente Nuevo bridge is the essence of Ronda and, I should say, the main reason people are visiting this mountaintop town. The bridge stretches over a deep gorge – El Tajo – connecting two parts of Ronda town. Crossing the bridge is a must for every visitor to this iconic place.

There are two viewpoints on each side of the bridge where you can get a great view of the bridge and El Tajo gorge. One of the viewpoints is Mirador de Aldehuela which will be a better choice in the morning hours as the sun shines over this side of the bridge.

While you are on that side of the bridge, check out this unique photo spot – Mirador de los Viajeros Románticos or the Romantic travelers’ viewpoint (photo above).

It is a cool photo spot made out of colorful tiles on the wall depicting a side view of Ronda city and telling a story about people who traveled to Ronda throughout the centuries.

The other viewpoint to check out the bridge from the other side is located on Paseo de Kazunori Yamauchi – a cliffside promenade. By the way, there is a small hut where you can buy entrance tickets to visit Ronda bridge from the inside.

Once you buy the tickets, there are stairs leading down from the promenade to the ‘legs’ of the bridge and small doors to enter the ‘leg’. Once you enter there will be a narrow staircase leading you upstairs.

The stairs will take you to the middle part of the bridge. If you look at the bridge from the side, you will notice doors in the upper-middle part of the bridge.

This is where you will be on the inside! There is a big hall with windows on both sides and a small exposition. It was pretty unique, but don’t expect much!

Location: Mirador de Aldehuela – Mirador de los Viajeros Románticos – Paseo de Kazunori Yamahuchi

2. Check out the hanging Jardines de Cuenca gardens!

After just a few minutes of walking from Puente Nuevo bridge, you will reach one of my favorite spots in Ronda and a great place where you can see the bridge properly from the side. Welcome to Jardines de Cuenca!

Jardines de Cuenca are terraced gardens hanging above the El Tajo gorge. Plus there is a fantastic viewpoint – Mirador de Cuenca – overlooking the bridge. Most tourists walk to the viewpoints on the other side of the gorge and this place is definitely more quiet.

We visited this place in spring and there wasn’t much to see from the gardens. Plants were not in bloom yet, but I guess there would be something more to see during summertime.

If you look from the gardens to the other side of the gorge, you will see another amazing view – the river flowing deep into the gorge and another cool bridge – Puente Viejo – crossing over the gorge. I loved spending some time in the garden just looking at the amazing views!

The garden has working hours so definitely check that before coming here. The entrance is free. Although you have to manage some stairs, this place is very easily accessible. It definitely requires less climbing than the famous viewpoints on the other side of the bridge.

Location: Jardines De Cuenca – Mirador de Cuenca

3. Walk over Puente Viejo to see Arco de Felipe V

Right from the gardens you can walk along the side of the gorge to another historic bridge in Ronda – Puente Viejo or the Old Bridge. Although all the attention goes to Puente Nuevo Bridge, this hidden gem in Ronda deserves some recognition too.

Puente Viejo is a 16th-century stone bridge with amazing views over the gorge. As you know, Ronda is located on the top of a hill. If the famous Puente Nuevo bridge connects both parts of the city at the highest point of Ronda, then this one – Puente Viejo – is located on a much lower level.

You can get the best photos of Puente Viejo bridge from another stone bridge located even more downhill – Puente de las Curtidurías or Puente Romano (this is the one I am sitting on and Puente Viejo is in the background of the photo).

After visiting Puente Viejo take a look at Arco de Felipe V stone arch! The arch is located on a cobblestone pathway just a few meters away from the Puente Viejo bridge. It was built in the 18th century and served as an entrance gate to the city.

The name of the arch – Felipe V – comes from the name of the king who ruled over Spain during the period this arch was built – King Felipe V. The arch is very beautiful and distinct from both sides.

This beautiful monument consists of a double arch, three pointed pillars on top of it, and the royal coat of arms on one side of the gates. Definitely walk by this spot while visiting Ronda!

Location: Puente Viejo – Puente de las Curtidurías – Arco de Felipe V

4. Descend deep into the gorge to Casa del Rey Moro water mines!

Just a few meters uphill from Puene Viejo and Arco de Felipe V, you will find one of my favorite places in Ronda. And it is time for an adventure! Are you ready to climb hundreds of steps to find yourself deep inside El Tajo Gorge?

Casa del Rey Moro is a historical site that consists of three parts – the house, the garden, and a secret water mine. The house is an 18th-century villa located on the edge of El Tajo Gorge and was not available for a visit when we were there (it is under reconstruction).

The garden is hanging right above the El Tajo gorge and was designed by the French landscape painter Jean Claude Nicolas Forestier during the first half of the 20th century. The garden is not too big, however, the views over the gorge are amazing. We even saw two peacocks wandering around.

The biggest secret and definitely one of my favorite hidden gems in Ronda is the water mill. It is located inside the wall of the gorge and is accessible from Casa del Rey Moro Gardens through a tunnel of steps cut inside the wall.

When you walk those hundreds of steps downhill you will exit the tunnel and walk on a small metal platform right inside the El Tajo gorge and stand just a few feet above the river.

The water mill was built in the 14th century, during the Islamic period in Spain, to provide the city with water. It was an amazing experience to stand there between the narrow walls of the gorge and see how high up the city actually is.

Inside the water mill, there was a big ferris wheel that was operated by Christian slaves. Today it is not functioning anymore, however, it is one of the most unique places to visit while in Ronda.

Location: La Casa del Rey Moro

5. Learn about the past at Baños Árabes or Arab baths

Baños Árabes or Arab baths in Ronda, located just a few meters away from Puente Viejo and Arco de Felipe V, is a unique archeological site showcasing a 13th-century bathhouse that was built during the Islamic period in Ronda.

At first, I was very skeptical about visiting this place just because there are Arab Baths in many places around Andalusia and I didn’t think there was anything special about them. However, these ones were really worth a visit.

Once you enter the site, you will be instructed to go inside one of the rooms in the Arab Baths to watch a 5 to 10-minute video. The video explains everything about the Arab Baths with illustrations and photos.

I have seen many Arab Baths around Andalusia, but these ones were the best in terms of explaining how everything worked, how it looked, and what happened in each part of the site.

Good hygiene is of high importance in Muslim culture and it was interesting to see the efforts that were taken to provide that to all the people many centuries ago. There is an entrance fee to see the Arab Baths.

Location: Baños Árabes of Ronda

6. Walk on cobblestone along the medieval defensive city walls

When you leave the Arab Baths, climb up a few meters uphill and find a small narrow path with steps (next to La Ermita de San Miguel ), it will take you along the medieval defensive city walls of Ronda and right through some of the old city gates.

The first gates you will see are Puerta de la Cijara or the Cijara gate. It is an arch-shaped gateway built inside the old defensive city walls. The gates served as one of the entrance places to the city during the Islamic period in Spain.

As you continue uphill the cobblestone path you will walk along Murallas del Carmen walls and Murallas de la Cíjara old city walls. If you have time I recommend walking up to Puerta de Almocábar – another entrance gate to the city.

Puerta de Almocábar is a massive stone gateway with two gigantic towers on both sides. The stone gateway dates back to the 13th century when it served as another entrance place to the city. These gates are the most impressive ones and definitely the biggest in Ronda.

Location: Puerta de la Cijara – Puerta de Almocábar

7. See Ronda from above from the roof of Santa María la Mayor church

One of my favorite discoveries in Ronda was Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor church. It is very common that you can enter churches and cathedrals in Spain and visit them. However, the best thing about this church in Ronda is that you can climb on the roof of it and see Ronda from above!

This beautiful Renaissance and Baroque-style church was once a mosque built during the Islamic period in Spain but was redesigned as a Catholic church. There is a small entrance fee to visit the church. And definitely check the working hours before coming!

Once you enter the church look for small doors near the altar – there is a narrow staircase that will lead you upwards to the roof. The roof is one of the few places in Ronda where you can see this mountaintop city from above.

Besides, there is another secret to this place. At the top of the staircase on the roof, you will notice another door. Although it looks like it was made for children, don’t hesitate to bend over and enter them. You will be surprised by an unusual view!

After entering the small door on the rooftop you will find yourself on a tiny balcony in the inside of the church. The balcony is located right at the ceiling of the church and you will be able to see the church hallway from above.

I don’t think I have ever seen a church from this perspective! Visiting this church, climbing on the roof to see the city from above, and getting on the balcony near the ceiling of the church definitely make this one of the most unique places in Ronda!

Location: Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor

8. Explore Mondragon Palace and/or Casa Museo Don Bosco

If you have some spare time I recommend checking out Mondragon Palace which is a museum of Ronda history (dating back to prehistoric times) or Casa Museo Don Bosco – a unique 19th-century mansion with beautiful gardens and stunning views over the surroundings of Ronda and the famous El Tajo gorge.

Mondragon Palace

Mondragon Palace is the museum of Ronda housing exhibitions about local settlements and the history of Ronda since prehistoric times.

Although such museums aren’t usually on my itinerary, as I’m looking for some more exciting places to visit, there are some things that make this museum extra special.

Instead of looking at old bones or remains of instruments people used thousands of years ago, I was much more mesmerized by the building itself, the patio, and the garden outside. The museum is housed inside a 14th-century palace-like house and displays some stunning architectural elements.

For an entrance fee of a couple of euros, I spent most of the time admiring the building, taking photos in the patios lined with arches, and the decorative garden with fountains, plants, and amazing views over the surroundings of Ronda.

I don’t think it is worth going there just for the photos, but if you have time to spare in Ronda, then you can try this place out!

Even if you are not into prehistoric times and the history of Ronda, it was nice to admire the interior and exterior of this place. Don’t forget to check their working hours before coming!

Casa Museo Don Bosco

Casa Museo Don Bosco is a unique 19th-century mansion with beautiful gardens and stunning views over the surroundings of Ronda and the famous El Tajo gorge.

This aristocratic mansion was built around 1850 and today hosts different cultural events and is open for visitors of Ronda.

For a small entrance fee, you can explore the house and see how aristocrats lived about 100 years ago. The most beautiful part of this place is definitely the garden where you can enjoy sculptures, balconies, benches, a fountain, and blooming flowers.

My favorite place here was outside in the garden – there is a huge balcony and a beautiful fountain in a circular shape surrounded by benches made out of small tiles and ceramic decors. But the icing on the cake is the view.

From the balcony, you can see the surroundings of Ronda and nearby mountains as far as the eye can see. If you look to the right you will see El Tajo Gorge. This is not the best place to see the Puente Nuevo bridge, but the rest of the view is totally worth it!

If you are hungry, there is a restaurant inside the premises of the mansion where you can enjoy some food and spend some more time on the balcony to enjoy the quietness and stillness of this place. It is peaceful and breathtaking!

Location: Mondragon Palace – Casa Museo Don Bosco

9. Visit Plaza de Toros de Ronda

One of the coolest and most unusual places in Ronda is the bullring – Plaza de Toros de Ronda. For an entrance fee, you can visit this 18th-century bullring and a museum.

If you still haven’t been in any bullrings in Spain then this is definitely one to go to. With only 5 thousand seats it is definitely not the biggest in Spain in this regard, however, the ring itself at 66 meters in diameter is the largest ring in Spain!

I loved exploring the bullring and taking colorful photos while there! We also explored a museum dedicated to the art of bullfighting and saw the backside of the arena. Although I am not a fan of bullfighting I appreciated finding out more about the rich history behind it all.

Location: Plaza de Toros de Ronda

10. Buy an ice cream and walk along Paseo de los Ingleses

Once you exit the bullring, turn to the cliffside of Ronda. One of my favorite things to do in Ronda was walking along the cliffside promenade called Paseo de los Ingleses. It takes you along one side of Ronda city while overlooking the vastness you can see from the top of the hill where Ronda is built upon.

There is a beautiful 19th-century park – Alameda del Tajo – lined with blooming trees, cliffside balconies, and incredible views from the top of the cliff. Grab an ice cream and take a walk around!

Along the promenade you will stumble upon a beautiful spot – Mirador de Ronda. There is a viewpoint with a circular canopy (pictured above!).

This is an incredible place to relax, take photos, and admire the view. And this has to be one of the best places to be during sunset. The views are fantastic!

Location: Mirador de Ronda – Alameda del Tajo – Paseo de los Ingleses

11. Hike down the gorge to Puente Nuevo Bridge viewpoints

A fitting cherry on top and the perfect way to end your trip to Ronda would be to finish it with a hike down along the El Tajo gorge to the famous Puente Nuevo bridge viewpoints.

If you want to hike there, then there is a paved pathway with steps leading downhill from the city (it starts here !) to the viewpoints of Ronda Bridge and it is quite easy to get there. Just be careful around the edges of the cliff!

If you drive a car, I don’t recommend driving to the very bottom of the gorge as you will have to climb a considerable distance uphill to get the best view (the bridge looks small and far away from the bottom!)! It is better to park your car midway ( somewhere here ) and then walk to the viewpoints from there.

Mirador Puente Nuevo viewpoint

Mirador Puente Nuevo de Ronda is the first viewpoint that you will stumble upon if you hike down the path from the city. And because it is the closest to the city, it is the most popular viewpoint.

There is a wide outcrop on the wall of the gorge where you can easily choose a spot to take a photo. Be careful around the edges of the cliff as there are no fences and the cliff is pretty high there!

Arco del Cristo viewpoint

If you walk further down the path you will reach Arco del Cristo viewpoint. This was my personal favorite photo spot of the Puente Nuevo bridge. Here you can get the best photo because the bridge and the waterfall are both very well visible.

You can easily take a photo of yourself standing in the photo without covering the beautiful view! There is a stone arch at this viewpoint – Arco del Cristo – and if you go through it and climb a few steps down a path you will get this view!

This stone where I am standing creates a beautiful platform that fits perfectly in the photo. The best time to go there will be during the day or in the evening because the sun shines over this side of the bridge in the afternoon and in the evening.

You can choose whichever viewpoint you like, but don’t forget to take into account that you will have to climb up back from where you came from!

I do not recommend going any lower than these two viewpoints because the bridge and the waterfall both become less and less visible as you go further down.

Location: Mirador Puente Nuevo de Ronda – Arco del Cristo viewpoint

More Andalusia travel inspiration!

• 7 best photo spots of Puente Nuevo bridge in Ronda, Spain
• 19 best Instagram spots for amazing photos in Cádiz, Spain
• 9 best things to do in Spain’s hidden cave village, Setenil de las Bodegas
• How to visit the charming Frigiliana and all the best places to see in 1 day
• Nerja Bucket List: 9 best things to do in Nerja, Spain (in 1 day)
• 13 hidden gems and unique spots you should see in Malaga, Spain

Happy exploring!

Ronda was one of my favorite towns in Andalusia! The iconic town is standing on the top of a hill with a deep gorge – El Tajo – cutting through it and a massive bridge – Puente Nuevo – connecting both sides of the town.

I hope you enjoy your time in this iconic mountaintop spot as much as we did! And I hope you will get some inspiration from this blog post and create some amazing and unforgettable memories on your trip to Ronda! Happy exploring!

PIN FOR LATER!

Marta is an economist turned full-time traveler. She comes from a small village in a small country (Latvia) with a big dream to see the big World and share it all with you!

On Explored by Marta, you will find travel guides and bucket lists made for active travelers who plan their own itineraries with a little bit of everything - must-see spots, hidden gems, cities, nature, fun adventures, and relaxation!

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Ronda blog — the fullest ronda travel guide for first-timers.

In addition to names like Seville, Granada and Cordoba, Ronda is known as one of the four popular tourist destinations in the Andalusia region. Although, it is the fastest growing place of Andalusia, but Ronda still retains many ancient features that are especially attractive to tourists. So, is Ronda worth visiting, how to visit Ronda, what to do in Ronda and how to plan a budget trip to Ronda for the first-time perfectly? Let’s check out our Ronda travel blog (Ronda blog) with the fullest Ronda travel guide (Ronda tourist guide, Ronda guide) from how to get to Ronda, best places to visit, best time to come as well as top things to do in Ronda to help you maximize your trip as follows!

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Spain never ceases to amaze me with its landscapes and cities, suddenly on my one free day in the south of the country, I set off for Ronda. The bus ran across the Sierra mountains to the Malaga region in the south of this country of tapas. And I couldn’t help but feel excited when I suddenly saw Ronda lying on the cliff, at the foot of the mountain almond flowers were blooming on the green vegetation, a spectacular sight.

Ronda is a historic city built on mountains over 750 meters above sea level. Ronda really captivating visitors by the view of the Guadalevín river running through the city and divided into two parts. Besides, this place still has many architecture from neoclassical style preserved almost intact.

Overview of Ronda (#ronda blog)

Perched on a cliff in Malaga province with an altitude of over 750 meters, Ronda is a city that impresses any visitor by its crags. The city is divided in two by the Guadalevin River, which flows through Ronda, located on either side of the El Tajo Canyon. To travel between these two banks of the river, people cross three precarious bridges spanning the gorge. The city’s architecture was influenced by the Romans and Moors that once dominated the territory.

The town of Ronda is divided into two parts: La Ciudad is the southern old town, and the northern part of town is El Mercadillo. La Ciudad was originally a city complex that existed from the time of the Islamic Kingdom. This is also the area that retains the characteristics of the village of Pueblo Blanco, also known as the white village with a maze of small – narrow and zigzag roads interwoven with low rows of houses, close together. El Mercadillo is a more classic Spanish town with wide streets and buildings dating from the 18th and 19th centuries.

The Guadalevin River flows through dividing Ronda into two parts: La Ciudad to the north and El Mercadillo to the south. The main architectural style of this old town is influenced by the Romans and Moors who ruled here for a while. The two sides of Ronda are two differences: One is modern and the other is quiet, quaint.

La Ciudad is also known for its white village with low rows of houses mixed in small alleys, zigzagging like a maze that makes people lose their way. El Mercadillo is again impressed by its spaciousness but also classic with the architecture kept from the 18th and 19th centuries. The two combine to form a Spanish Ronda that captivates people.

After the Spanish Civil War, Ronda’s population declined due to the heavy effects of the war. Today only 35,000 people live in this cliffside city. But not so that Ronda lost her soul in the ancient buildings and traditional culture.

Getting to Ronda (#ronda guide)

To get to Ronda, you should start from Seville, the capital of the Andalusia region in Spain. From here you have 3 main ways:

• Car rental: It will take 1 hour and 50 minutes to drive, not too far if you go to A-375 and A-374 roads.
• By public transport: It will take about 3 hours, follow the instructions in the picture below.
• The last option is to buy a day tour, which is relatively comfortable, does not have to be thinking too much, in addition, when going to Ronda, you will be stopped at 2 villages in the Sierra mountains, which are very beautiful, feel free to take pictures to check-in.

What to do and where to go in Ronda (#ronda travel guide)

Three bridges connecting ronda (#ronda blog).

Because of the separation by the river, people who want to travel between the North and South banks have to cross 3 bridges lying precariously on the top of the mountain. For those who are afraid of heights, it is indeed a challenge because it is easy to be overwhelmed by the scenery here.

These three bridges span between two mountain cliffs, connecting the old Ronda and the new Ronda. Three bridges with three names Puente Romano, Puente Viejo, and Puente Nuevo. Puente Nuevo is the highest bridge, 120 m above the ground. Puente Nuevo is also a favorite of many photographers because it is located on the nice location and can be seen when making your way down the canyon.

A small tip for you is that when crossing Puente Nuevo, don’t just stop to look at the bridge but go through it, look to the right, there will be a small stone paved path along the cliff to go down to see the whole city of Ronda with this majestic bridge. Along the way, there are also countless almond trees, if you pass in the spring, you will see the flowers bloom extremely brightly.

Looking up from the bottom, you can see the magnificence and spectacular of these 3 bridges. This place is loved by many photographers, when standing from the bottom of the gorge, you can see all of the old and new Ronda connected by those 3 monumental bridges.

The city is located on the side of a cliff, known as the pearl of Southern Spain with 3 bridges: Puente Romano, Puente Viejo, and Puente Nuevo, making many people fascinated by the grandeur but equally. that poetic part. Puente Nuevo with a height of more than 120m looks like a scene from some epic special effects movie.

Every spring, following the small road down, you will see the entire scene of this bridge and Ronda city, somewhere with the shadow of gentle pink almond trees. Is there a more harmonious combination between the wild, majestic but equally romantic?

Corrida Goyesca, Ronda’s Bullring (#ronda travel blog)

Spain is known as the cradle of the art of bullfighting. Every year, many tourists come here to immerse themselves in the excitement and excitement of the bull tournament. Ronda is known for being the home of the tradition of horseless bullfighting. Corrida Goyesca is located prominently in the heart of Ronda, considered one of the most beautiful arenas in Spain, marking important matches with many memorable events.

It can be said that Ronda is the cradle of the art of bullfighting. Corrida Goyesca was built in 1784 in neoclassical style by Jose Martin de Aldehuela, who designed Puente Nuevo. This bullring actually only holds bull heads once a year. But to see the most splendid bullring is to sit at the cafe in the hotel opposite the bullring.

The huge and splendid arena stands out, attracting the attention of passersby. Corrida Goyesca is lively only once a year, so that people can be cheered, and thrilled with every movement of the matador.

On normal days, the Corrida Goyesca bullring put on a quiet, quiet look. Sitting on the floor of the cafe opposite, watching the flow of people up and down with the giant Corrida Goyesca, looming majestic mountains is more than enough for an afternoon of recovery.

Mirador de Ronda (#ronda blog)

If you’re bored with the city of Ronda, the Mirador de Ronda located a few hundred meters from Corrida Goyesca will give you a breathtaking view of southern Spain. With an almost infinity green landscape. It can be likened to a beautiful green cover like Tuscany in Italy.

If you want to find a place to see the full beauty of Southern Spain, just walk a few hundred meters to the Mirador de Ronda you will be immersed in the soothing green of nature.

As far as the eye can see, the endless green color of the grass, the mountain under the clear and spacious sky, adorned with floating white clouds. It seemed that one had strayed into a romantic Italian countryside and not in Ronda.

The highlight for that blue color, in the cool air of spring days, is the soft pink color of almond trees flowers. Not only the wild and majestic beauty, but more than that, a dreamy sky in sight. Ronda is indeed the jewel of Southern Spain when it makes so many hearts when standing in front of this place drop a very gentle beat, very smooth but also stirring enough.

Ronda’s cultural imprints

The art of bullfighting.

Francisco Romero, from Ronda, Spain, is generally known for being the first to introduce the art of fighting the bulls as we know them today around 1726. Fighters (matadors) would use scarves and weapons to kill the bull. This type of fighting drew more attention from the crowd. Thus, the modern Corrida, began to take shape, as the riding aristocrats were replaced by walking commoners. However, for me, this art still represents a certain savagery towards animals. Today, Ronda holds a bullfight only once a year.

Imprint Hemingway & Orson Welles

These two American artists visited Ronda many summers in a row, and lived there for many years in the old town of La Ciudad. Both love and write about Ronda’s beauty. To date, statues and reliefs of the two are on display in the main park in front of Puente Nuevo in Ronda.

Hemingway once wrote in For Whom the Bell Tolls about a Republican trial of nationalist murder in Andalusia. Hemingway is said to have based on the true events of the civil war in Ronda to write part of that story.

And maybe I’m quite privileged with the places Hemingway used to visit and stay for a long time to write his books. Last year was the island of Torcello in Italy, this year visit Ronda again. Small and beautiful places in Europe always make writers come and find their inspiration.

Where to stay?

If you want to stay overnight in Ronda, below we recommend more best budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Hotel Don Miguel ( Agoda , Booking )
• Catalonia Ronda ( Agoda , Booking )
• Catalonia Reina Victoria ( Agoda , Booking )
• Parador de Ronda ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel El Tajo & SPA ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel San Francisco ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Alavera de los Baños ( Agoda , Booking )
• Hotel Soho Boutique Palacio San Gabriel ( Agoda , Booking )

Check out more top and best hotels in Ronda on Agoda.com or Booking.com

As a harmonious combination between classic features steeped in history, with modern liberality mixed with smooth green nature, Ronda is truly a place that makes people fall in love. Breathtaking beauty of Southern Spain with a small town perched on the top of a mountain, with gentle almond blossoms fluttering in the wind. All blend to make Ronda a piece of emotional memory in the travel guide of those who visit here.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Ronda you can refer to

• Ronda Guided Day Tour from Malaga (Exclusive Transfer)
• Ronda & White Villages Day Tour from Seville
• Guided Full Day Tour in Ronda
• Ronda Guided Day Tour From Seville
• Ronda & Alhambra One Day Guided Tour from Seville

Read more Spain guide here .

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Ronda, Spain – A Hidden Gem of Andalusia.

• Last Updated: January 1, 2024

There is no other town like this in Spain. Although you will find many charming whitewashed villages across the country, yet there is no other town that would combine the charm of the traditional Spanish village with dramatic cliff-edge views. There is no doubt you will find towns or cities in Spain that you will love. Likely more than one. But you will not find a place like Ronda, Spain.

When thinking of the Spanish Region of Andalusia the first places that come to mind are probably Seville , Granada or its sun-kissed coastline Malaga ,  Marbella, or Tarifa as the main hotspots. But Ronda (Spain) is a true hidden gem of Andalusia and should definitely be added to your itinerary.

Ronda (Spain) is a historic hilltop city located in the Spanish province of Málaga. It is built across the deep El Tajo gorge. The town is split in half over the ravine and connected by the famous Puente Nuevo bridge – the landmark of Ronda.

Table of Contents

Why is Ronda worth visiting?

Ronda, Spain is most famous for its Puente Nevo Bridge but it is also an exceptionally charming and somehow romantic town. As it is situated on top of the gorge divided by a deep ravine (El Tajo de Ronda) holding the Guadiaro River, it boasts incredible views over the Andalusian countryside and mountains.

Ronda is split into two parts with one of them being La Ciudad – a historical old town. Ronda’s old town dates back to Islamic times and it is a beautiful white-washed village with plenty of little cafes, restaurants and shops.

Further north, the ‘new’ town is rested on top steep cliffs, with parks and promenades looking over the surrounding mountains.

Ronda is a historic town with dramatic history also known to be the birthplace of bullfighting. But these days it offers a much more laid-back atmosphere with great hiking opportunities, heaps of sightseeing as well as great restaurants and tapas bars.

Ronda is one of the oldest towns in Spain. It was already settled in the 6th century BC by the Celts, who called it Arunda.  The current Ronda is of Roman origins. It was founded as a fortified post in the Second Punic War and received the title of the city at the time of Julius Caesar.

Great artists and writers of the 20th century appreciated Ronda for its romantic character and charm.

Famous German poet Rainer Maria Rilke spent extended periods in Ronda, where he kept a permanent room at the Hotel Reina Victoria. His room remains to this day as he left it: a mini-museum of Rilkeana. Rilke wrote about Ronda: “I have sought everywhere the city of my dreams, and I have finally found it in Ronda”

Ernest Hemingway arrived in Spain in 1936 as a journalist. He was fascinated by the town and was a massive fan of bullfighting. He spent many summers in Ronda as a resident of the town’s old quarter and wrote two books about Ronda. He said: ‘ That is where you should go if you ever go to Spain on a honeymoon or if you ever bolt with anyone. The entire town and as far as you can see in any direction is romantic background….”

Ronda is easily accessible from Malaga, Seville or Granada and it can be seen in one day. Yet, there is plenty to do and see so you could spend anything from one day to a few days in Ronda.

How to get to Ronda, Spain

How to get to Ronda From Malaga – It takes around 2.5 hours to get to Ronda from Malaga by train and it costs around €15 one way. Take the train to Antequera Santa Ana and change there for Ronda. You can also take a direct bus which is a slightly cheaper option and it takes around 3.5 hours to get to Ronda. There are very few direct services per day. But you can take a bus to Marbella or Fuengirola and change there for Ronda.

How to get to Ronda From Marbella or Fuengirola – You will find direct bus services from both Marbella and Fuengirola to Ronda. Bus from Marbella leaves from the San Pedro de Alcantara. In Fuengirola, you will get a bus from the main train station. You Can also take the train to Malaga and take a train to Ronda from there.

How to get to Ronda From Seville – There are direct busses from Seville Estación de Autobuses El Prado de San Sebastián to Ronda and the journey lasts just under 2.5 hours. There is no direct train service to Ronda from Seville. Ticket cost around €15. You could take a train to Cordoba and change there, but the journey will last around 3.5 hours so the bus is the best option.

How to get to Ronda From Granada – A new high-speed rail line connecting Granada and Malaga has been built in 2020. This is the best and fastest way to get to Ronda from Granada. You will have to change in Antequera but it is still a lovely and pretty fast journey. The cost of the train journey is around €21 if you book in advance and takes just under 3 hours.

Things to do in Ronda, Spain

When I visited Ronda I made a bit of a mistake by not planning the order in which I would visit the sights. The town is not flat! I found myself going up and down many times and coming back on myself as I visited the attractions in random order. It was fine by me as I do enjoy walking, but this was very tiring and I also wasted a lot of time. So, to spare you the huffs and puffs (at least a little) I will list the sights in the recommended order.

Plaza de Toros de Ronda (Ronda's Bullring)

Ronda Bull Ring was Inaugurated in 1785 and is the second oldest in Spain (after Sevilla). Regardless of what is your opinion about bullfighting (I am certain about mine), it is still a piece of history and a magnificent sight. Ronda is known to be the home of modern-day bullfighting. Ronda’s Bull Ring was home to one of Spain’s most famous ‘schools’ of bullfighting founded by Pedro Romero, one of Spain’s most famous bullfighters.

It is indeed one of the most beautiful bullrings in Spain – supported by Tuscan columns with a museum situated right underneath the tiers.

You cannot say you have been to Ronda if you haven’t seen its famous bullring.

Mirador del Ronda and Balcón del Coño Viewpoints

After visiting Ronda’s bullring take a pathway that runs along the cliff edge to Paseo Ernest Hemingway and Puente Nuevo. This path offers some of the best views of the surrounding landscape and contains a number of viewing points called ‘Balcons Coños’. The most famous, and thrilling one is called Mirador del Ronda . It will award you with unforgettable views of the El Tajo gorge, the whitewashed town that sits upon it as well as the Puente Nuevo bridge.

The Puente Nuevo Bridge / / Best things to do in Ronda Spain

Puente Nuevo Bridge is what Ronda is most recognised for. It connects two parts of the town – the old (La Ciudad) and the new town (El Mercadillo) spanning a narrow chasm and plunging over 300 feet straight down to the Guadalevín River below.

It was built in an atmosphere of tragedy as the original construction collapsed in 1741, killing 50 people. After 40 years in construction, Puente Nuevo, Ronda’s ‘new bridge’ was completed in 1793

Parts of the Puente Nuevo solid span column interiors were used as a prison and even, allegedly, as a torture chamber.

During the 1936–1939 civil war, captured prisoners were supposedly tortured in the chamber. Some, supposedly, were thrown from the windows of the chamber, to break against the rocks of the gorge. 

Now however it is the main attraction of the town and what most of the visitors come here to admire.

The Lower Bridges: Puente Viejo and Puente de San Miguel

Puente Nuevo is not the only bridge connecting the two sides of Ronda. Puente Romano (“Roman Bridge”, also known as the Puente San Miguel), and Puente Viejo (“Old Bridge”, also known as the Puente Arabe or “Arab Bridge”) are Ronda’s two lower bridges over the gorge. They can be reached by taking Calle del Comandante Linares downhill and through an arched gateway.

The bridges are only set a few meters away from each other and the area around the bridges is popular amongst hikers and nature lovers.

Ronda Baños Árabes (Ronda’s Arab Baths)

These 13th- to 15th-century thermal baths are considered the best-preserved Moorish Baths in Spain.

Moors conquering Spain, beginning in 711 AD, greatly changed the architectural and cultural landscape of the country. Especially in Andalusia, you will find many remnants of Spain’s Moorish rule, from palaces and fortresses to impressive gateways, historic neighbourhoods and ruins of old Arabic baths. Ronda’s Arab Baths are one of the most important places of interest in Ronda.

For the Moors, the baths were built for sanitary reasons but also for religious ‘purification’ purposes. Hence the baths were located next to the mosque. Moors would clean both their body and soul before entering the temple.

Similar to ancient Roman baths, the complex had cold, warm, and hot baths (the heating system was entirely hydraulic). The three chambers received light through a number of star-shaped roof openings. This is a magnificent sight and you should definitely visit whilst in Ronda.

There is information provided to the visitor and it includes a video illustrating how the baths were used in ancient times. It runs in Spanish and then English every five minutes.

Arab Baths of Ronda are open Monday to Friday from 10 am to 6 pm (10:00-18:00) and the ticket costs €4.5 for an adult.

La Casa del Rey Moro and Jardines de Cuenca

I would definitely recommend visiting La Casa del Rey Moro and stepping down to the beautiful garden called Jardines de Cuenca – both located close to Puente Viejo bridge.

La Casa del Rey Moro , although known as the Moorish King’s House, it was in fact never home to any of the kings. It was built well after the Moorish conquest of Spain, nevertheless, with its floating gardens and many historic tales – it is definitely worth visiting.

It consists of three parts: the water mine, the house and the garden.

The Water Mine , a system of intertwined stairways and cells, was built in the fourteenth century. It starts at the top of Ronda’s cliff face and spirals down to the Guadalevin River consisting of 231 stairs.

This staircase played a fundamental role in Ronda’s history. For many centuries, those mines were the only water source the city could rely on. Slaves (Christians) built the water mine and they were also used to carry the water up and down the stairs to the city.

The Casa del Rey Moro gardens offer scenic views of the gorge, the El Tajo River, and the surrounding mountains.

Also set near Puente Viejo and offering spectacular views are Jardines de Cuenca gardens. These gardens provide wonderful views over the city’s bridges and the El Tajo gorge.

The Cuenca Gardens are distributed across a series of terraces where you can relax and take some great photos of the Puente Nuevo bridge.

La Ciudad: The Old Moorish Town of Ronda Spain

La Ciudad (Ronda’s Old Town) is located to the south of Puente Nuevo and above the Arab Baths. This labyrinth of picturesque little streets will take you back in time. The town is Moorish in origin and contains a mix of charming whitewashed houses and grand Renaissance mansions.

This is where you will be able to wind down after some sightseeing and hiking and find a charming coffee shop or a restaurant to relax and replenish your strength with churros or tapas.

Ronda’s Old Town is also the area where you will find most of the town’s cultural attractions .

One of the best-known is the Palacio Mondragon .

This Moorish and Renaissance-style palace once provided luxurious accommodations for the Catholic Monarchs. The building nowadays houses the Ronda’s History Museum. The palace is most famous for its small Moorish water garden, designed to resemble Generalife in Granada. The building also maintains many interesting Moorish details like ceilings, balconies, and tiles.

While exploring the Old Town make your way to the picturesque Plaza de la Duquesa de Parcent where you will find the Iglesia Santa María la Mayor . This Mosque turned Catholic church is the biggest and most attractive of the churches in Ronda. This magnificent sight boasts ornamental Renaissance & Baroque-style features & a viewing deck.

Last but not least on your tour around La Ciudad you will find a Bandit Museum . It is definitely a very interesting museum and worth a visit.

The Bandit Museum consists of five rooms: “Romantic Travelers and Documentation”, “Living Banditry”, “Famous Bandits”, “Those who followed the trail -Civil Guard” and “Weapons and written testimonies”. All those exhibitions tell fascinating stories of people who either chose or were forced by circumstances to take on the lifestyle of a bandit. All the rooms are full of archives of historical value about bandits, romantic travellers, smugglers, the history of the Civil Guard, and so on.

Ronda Bridge View Point

Finally for the best views of the town and the Puente Nuevo bridge take a little hike down the gorge towards the Mirador Mirador Puente Nuevo (Ronda Bridge View Point). This is the famous viewpoint from which most of the iconic pictures of the bridge were taken.

This is a great place to end your day and watch the sunset reflecting over the bridge and the town above. From there you can also take a little hike towards Mirador del Viento and La Hoya Del Tajo viewpoint. In case you had some energy left.

Where to stay in Ronda

Although many visit Ronda just on a day trip I highly recommend staying at least one night.

If you are looking for a good budget hotel, you should consider Hotel San Francisco , located right in the centre and offering good value for many. Hostal San Cayetano  also offers simple and reasonably priced accommodations and is one of the best-rated budget hotels in Ronda.

If you are looking to rest by the pool after all the walking and enjoy the wonderful Spanish countryside you should definitely check the Hotel Cortijo Las Piletas .

And finally, if you want to stay right bang in the middle of the town in a beautiful apartment with awesome views, Apartamentos Rondacentro should be your choice.

Of course, you don’t need to see every single one of those wonderful attractions, especially if you only visit for one day. My aim was to list it all for you so you can make your choice and pick your favourites.

Yet, if you decided to spend more than one day in Ronda there is enough to see and enjoy. Trust me, you will not get bored. After all, how can one get bored with those beautiful views and the romantic atmosphere of Ronda, Spain – a true hidden gem of Andalucia?

let me know in the comments below if you think I have missed something, or just share with me your Ronda story! I will be looking forward to it!

Until then, stay free and happy travelling!

This post may contain affiliate links which means that if you purchase the product or make a booking via one of my links, I will receive a small commission. Please know that I will never recommend or promote a product I don’t believe in or haven’t used. This way, you are supporting this blog at no extra cost to you. Thank you!

3 thoughts on “Ronda, Spain – A Hidden Gem of Andalusia.”

Hi Lynne, I am terrified of heights, but loved Ronda. Walking atop the wall was amazing. Wear good shoes for the cobblestones though!

I am going to Ronda in Nov. 2022. Your description has made me excited about my visit (although with a fear of heights, I am also a little nervous!) Your pictures are lovely!

Hi Lynne! Ronda is one of the most incredible places I’ve visited in Spain, you will love it! And don’t worry about heights. Although the bridge and viewpoints are pretty high up, they feel very safe and secure! You will love it, have a great time!

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Hi, I’m Pati. A traveller, photographer (aspiring), dreamer and hopeless believer in magic. I caught the travel bug in my forties – and not planning to look back any time soon. I travel solo and on a budget and I try to spend as much time and effort as possible to truly immerse myself in the country I am visiting.

Whether you are like me and decided to change your life around a new dream or just wandering (because not all who wander are lost) – I am here to tell you that everything is possible. 

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Ronda’s epic bridge: top tips for visiting & getting the best views.

There’s no question Ronda’s famous bridge – el Puente Nuevo – is the reason most people head to this gorgeous Andalusian town in southern Spain.

It is, after all, one of the region’s icons and an absolutely splendid feat of architecture set in stunning surrounds.

I’m very glad to confirm it was certainly one of my Andalusian highlights and this post is here to help you discover and enjoy it too!

Because I’ll let you in on a couple of secrets – firstly most people only day trip to Ronda meaning they miss out on a lot this little town, and gorgeous bridge, has to offer.

And secondly, most people only view the bridge from above i.e. they only head into the centre of Ronda to stand on the bridge and snap the views from there.

But really, those in the know understand that the best views of the bridge actually come from hiking around it!

This post will explain all about how to visit Ronda’s famous bridge, as well as how to get the best views and snaps, including details of the top hike to enjoy!

I’ll also discuss how to get to Ronda and the bridge, when to visit, as well as where to stay and eat in this top Andalusian town.

So let’s dive in with my full travel guide to visiting Ronda in Spain and its amazing e l Puente Nuevo bridge.

Related Posts

• How to Get to Ronda from Seville, Malaga and Granada
• Ultimate Andalusia Road Trip Itinerary
• Top 19 Things to Do in Seville

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Why Visit Ronda?

Well, why wouldn’t you visit Ronda to be honest?!

But if you’re looking for a more specific reason (and I can’t blame you!), then I have to start by saying Ronda is a very pretty historic town set in gorgeous surrounds.

Situated down in Andalusia in the south of Spain, Ronda lies to the west of this province, in between the 2 national parks of Sierra de Grazalema and the Sierra de las Nieves , as well as between the cities of Seville and Malaga.

This means no matter whether you want to road trip the countryside around – including to the nearby Sierra – or want to go out hiking in some of Andalusia’s’ most striking scenery, Ronda makes for the perfect base.

If you’re tired of busier, bigger cities in the region too, such as Granada, Malaga or Seville, then Ronda also makes for a more peaceful stay.

This is due to its smaller size and the fact that, even though it is a popular spot, there are fewer tourists in Ronda (many of the ones that are there will be Spanish) and it’s a more relaxed Andalusian spot.

Ronda is also a great spot if you want to enjoy some typical food and drink from this region, as well as view one of the most picturesque bridges in the country!

Because yeah… there’s a really famous bridge in Ronda if you hadn’t already realised!

Ronda Bridge Facts

Known as el Puente Nuevo, which translates as “the new bridge”, Ronda’s most famous structure is actually over 250 years old.

Completed in 1793, after 24 years of construction, it’s called the New Bridge because it is actually the youngest of 3 bridges that span the 120m deep gorge that divides the town of Ronda.

The gorge is called El Tajo.

The chamber you can see in the top of the bridge’s central arch was once a prison (allegedly prisoners were tortured here and then hurled into the gorge below – eek!), but now it contains an exhibition of the bridge’s history.

There was also a bridge here before el Puente Nuevo but, unfortunately, it only lasted 6 years before collapsing and tragically killing 50 people.

Thankfully the current bridge appears to have stood the test of time and offers amazing views across the valley beyond Ronda in both directions.

How to Get to Ronda & El Puente Nuevo?

The closest international airports to Ronda are in the nearby cities of Seville and Malaga.

Seville is the capital of Andalusia and Malaga is a popular tourism destination meaning both are common transport hubs.

If you’re arriving from outside Spain into Andalusia, these 2 cities are likely to be your points of entry to the country.

As always, I use Skyscanner to get the best deals on flights.

If you’re travelling from elsewhere in Spain, or from nearby countries such as Portugal and France, it’s likely you’ll arrive into Seville if you’re using buses or trains.

The large coach and rail stations of this city, plus the fact it’s the regional capital, means there’s regular overland connections from Seville to many other national and international destinations including Lisbon , Faro, Madrid and Barcelona .

To book both rail and bus travel across Europe, including between countries or within Spain, I always use Trainline .

I like how they make everything easy, with price and journey comparisons across buses and trains in English, as well as a simple and secure booking system in multiple currencies and a great e-Ticket system.

And from either Seville or Malaga, you can then get a rental car, bus, train or private transfer to Ronda.

Learn about how to make any of these journeys – as well as easy booking options for each of them – in this handy article I wrote.

Otherwise, you can also take a day trip to Ronda from Seville or from Costa Del Sol destinations such as Malaga or Marbella.

Check out these top options:

White Villages and Ronda Tour from Seville

From Seville: Pueblos Blancos and Ronda Full-Day Trip

From Costa del Sol: Ronda and Setenil de las Bodegas

Once in the town of Ronda, it’s very easy to walk to the bridge.

Clearly visible on Google maps, just about every tourist will be heading there too, so just follow the crowds into the centre and you’ll soon see it!

How to Visit Ronda’s Bridge

The most popular spot to enjoy the bridge from is actually on top of it.

This is the option most tourists go for.

From here you can enjoy stunning views across the surrounding landscape and appreciate the dramatic clifftop position Ronda occupies.

There’s also a handy viewing platform here you can use to get a view of the other 2 bridges that span the gorge and would have connected the 2 sides of Ronda before el Puente Nuevo was constructed.

Because it’s in the heart of the town centre, as you walk to and from the bridge, you’ll also get the chance to explore more of Ronda (including both the Old and New Towns) which is why it’s easy to cover a lot of ground in just a short visit here.

In the Old Town, don’t miss the Arab Baths, the Mondragon Palace and the Jardines de Cuenca.

You can also wander through these gardens to explore el Puente Viejo – Ronda’s old bridge.

The other side of the gorge is largely dominated by Ronda’s New Town.

You might want to check out the bullring here – if that’s your thing!

Although it’s still pretty old, with some lovely architecture, the New Town is (unsurprisingly) a more modern side in general.

That said, it still has some cute squares (or plazas ) where you can enjoy a caña – the late afternoon small beer the Spaniards love – as well as some great local tapas joints.

Recommended here are Bodega San Francisco – an absolute local hit, where people queue out the door and Plaza Del Socorro , which is a lovely square for a drink with a view of the unique church.

If you’d like to take a tour of Ronda with a guide, then check out this top rated option .

Hiking Around the Ronda Bridge

However, if you want the best views (and snaps) of Ronda’s iconic bridge, it really is best to do a hike in the valley below, so that you get to enjoy the views looking up at the bridge and town from below.

This is also a great way to appreciate the impressive cliff structure Ronda sits on – just how steep and tall it is.

The impression really is pretty dramatic!

There are several hikes you can enjoy around Ronda – many of which you can view free on the AllTrails app – but I decided to opt for the Molinos del Tajo .

This turned out to be an excellent option, as it really gave incredible views of the bridge from all different angles as well as the chance to have a good leg stretch and to take in the magnificence of the landscape around Ronda too.

Starting at Plaza Pruna – which has an amazing lookout (always a good omen at the beginning!) – this is a 2 hour fairly strong, circular hike, which is steep in parts.

You can also detour by walking up into the gorge below the bridge, as well as to some popular lookouts for some great snaps.

Eventually, you’ll finish by walking up into the Old Town of Ronda and then onto the bridge.

This means you really do get to see this incredible bridge from all sides, as well as finish in Ronda, where you can then sightsee across the rest of this town, as well as enjoy some delicious tapas and a drink!

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When to Visit Ronda?

In my opinion, the best time to visit Ronda is during the shoulder seasons of April through June or September and October.

July and August are simply too hot in Andalusia (especially inland) – think high 30, or even 40 degrees – but the months either side of the high summer are ideal.

Lower temperatures at this time, combined with blue skies and clear weather, make hiking and getting outdoors in and around Ronda ideal.

For me, the landscapes and scenery in Ronda are the best aspects, so you certainly want to choose months to visit in which is possible to enjoy these aspects.

How to Get Around Ronda?

The centre of Ronda is really small, which means you can easily navigate it on 2 feet.

In fact, this is definitely the preferred option as much of the centre of the town is pedestrianised.

If you’re wandering further afield, such as to the national parks around or perhaps to some of the Pueblos Blancas (the pretty historic white villages dotted in the countryside near here), then you’ll probably want to rent a vehicle.

Although Ronda has some rental options, you’ll likely find the cheapest options in some of the larger cities around such as Malaga or Seville.

How Long to Spend There?

One day is really enough time to explore the centre of Ronda and to hike around the famous bridge.

However, I’d really recommend at least a couple of days in Ronda if you want to explore some of the surrounding countryside too, especially Las Pueblos Blancas, which are stunning.

During my time in Ronda, this is what we spent our second day doing, as well as hiking out in the Sierra de Grazalema and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

Then of course, you might just also want to chill out and laze around by a pool if your accommodation has one!

I definitely know I enjoyed doing this – the view we had was an added bonus!

Where to Stay in Ronda?

When it comes to budget accommodation in Ronda, you’ll be hard-pressed to do better than the Hotel Andalucia Ronda .

Clean, comfortable, with great, helpful staff and only a 1 minute to the centre, there’s even free parking right nearby.

If you’d rather stay somewhere with a kitchen and self-catering options, then Apartamento Calle Nueva is hard to beat.

A 2-bed place offering incredible value for money, it gets top reviews thanks to its excellent location, spacious nature, great hosts and excellent homely comforts.

Packing Essentials for Ronda

• A sand-free beach towel
• UV sunglasses
• Good trail shoes for walking
• Bamboo activewear (hypoallergenic, temperature-regulating)
• Natural 30 SPF sunscreen
• A good insect repellent
• Thin waterproof jacket
• Sony A6000 camera and / or GoPro Hero 9

Travel Insurance for Spain

Alternatively, if you’re a long-term traveller, digital nomad or frequent remote worker seeking travel health cover, check out Safetywing’s Nomad Insurance policies.

Where to Head After Ronda?

It goes without saying that Seville , Malaga and Granada all make good options to head for after Ronda.

Gibraltar is another option, as are the historic spots of Cadiz and Jerez de la Frontera.

And who can forget Córdoba – the former Islamic capital in this part of Spain – it’s a must!

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So there you have it, my complete guide to visiting Ronda and seeing its famous bridge.

And tell me, have you visited this cute Andalusian town?

How did you get there?

Tell me all in the comments box below….

Creator of Big World Small Pockets, Stephanie Parker is a travel addict! Originally from Jersey in the Channel Islands, Stephanie adventures the world collecting tips, advice and stories, to share with a smile

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New Travel Vlog Episode – Ronda, Spain Guide

If you are looking for that quintessential Spanish fairytale experience, then look no further than the city of Ronda in Spain’s Malaga province. This mountaintop city, which is built-up on the precipice of a deep gorge, looks like it was conjured up from the mind of one of this world’s greatest storytellers. It really is that beautiful and unique, which is why I decided to do this Ronda Spain Travel Vlog episode.

While this fabulous city may not have been imagined up by a great storyteller, it has attracted some of this world’s most creative minds. In fact, both Olson Wells and Ernest Hemingway spent some significant time in this city of dreams throughout their lives. According to Hemingway, “Ronda is the place where to go if you are planning to travel to Spain for a honeymoon or for being with a girlfriend. The whole city and its surroundings are a romantic set.”

Ronda is one of Spain’s most picturesque cities and a destination that many people dream of visiting. Many visitors flock to Ronda to see the views, while others come to enjoy the rich bullfighting history in one of the country’s oldest bullfighting rings. Although it is a bit off the beaten path, this only adds to the allure of Ronda. Whatever your reason for wanting to visit Ronda, planning a trip doesn’t have to be difficult if you have the right resources.

In this Ronda Spain Travel Vlog, I will provide you with all of the information you need to plan a trip to this fantastic city. With this guide in hand, you will be able to determine the best time to plan your trip, know what type of transportation to take to get to Ronda, where to stay when you visit Ronda, and what top attractions in Ronda you should see.

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Published by Josh Hewitt

Avid traveler and photographer who loves to see new places, meet new people, and experience new things. There is so much this world can teach us, we just need to explore! View all posts by Josh Hewitt

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1 comment ›.

Ronda – I need to add it to my list! Thanks for a review 🙂

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Wonderful & very informative article. Good you explained everything in detail it has been a great help.

Gibraltar is so beautiful, I never thought of visiting this place, your always adorable photography has made Gibraltar even more…

Thank you so much for the kind words!!

Wonderful, very nice article

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Spain · April 7, 2024

10 Very Best Things To Do In Ronda, Spain

Welcome to Ronda, Spain’s clifftop marvel!

Nestled in the heart of Andalusia , Ronda is a place where history whispers through the winding streets, and nature’s grandeur takes your breath away.

Imagine standing atop the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge, gazing down into the deep El Tajo gorge, as the sun casts golden hues over the ancient stones.

In Ronda, every meal feels like a feast with local wines and tapas, and the air is filled with the soulful strums of Spanish guitars.

We visited Ronda as part of our 1 week itinerary in Andalusia and arrived here in the early morning after a beautiful drive from Estepona.

In this guide I will tell you everything you need to know to have the best time in Ronda and where to take the most incredible photos of the Puente Nuevo bridge!

Things to do in Ronda

1. puente nuevo bridge.

The Puente Nuevo Bridge in Ronda stands as a breathtaking testament to architectural ingenuity and natural beauty, elegantly perched above the dramatic El Tajo gorge .

Constructed in the late 18th century, this iconic bridge spans the deep chasm, connecting Ronda’s old and new towns and offering spectacular views of the Andalusian landscape .

Its construction was an engineering marvel of its time, taking over four decades to complete.

Today, the bridge draws visitors from around the world, captivated by its majestic presence and the panoramic vistas it provides. A walk across Puente Nuevo or a glimpse from the surrounding viewpoints is an unforgettable experience, embodying the spirit and grandeur of Ronda.

Where to find the best viewpoint of the Puente Nuevo

There are several viewpoints from where you can admire the bridge but the best one is without a doubt from the Arco Cristo . There used to be a couple more but they are currently undergoing construction and getting turned into viewpoints with a railing.

You can reach the Arco Cristo viewpoint in three ways:

• Park your car at the bottom parking lot at the Mirador La Hoya Del Tajo
• Park your car at Parking La Merced and walk down from the top of the bridge (This trail is currently closed but hopefully opens back up once the other viewpoints aren’t under construction anymore)
• Park your car at Puerta Del Viento and hike up the small trail. At the moment the trail underneath the arch is closed off but you can follow a narrow dirt path on the left of it and it leads you straight to the Arco Cristo viewpoint.

2. Jardines de Cuenca

The Jardines de Cuenca in Ronda are a hidden gem, offering a serene escape amidst the city’s historic charm. Perched along the edges of the Tajo Gorge , these terraced gardens provide breathtaking views of the canyon and the Puente Nuevo bridge, Ronda’s iconic symbol.

The gardens are named after Ronda’s sister city, Cuenca, and are designed to blend seamlessly with the natural beauty of the gorge.

Opening hours – Every day from 8am until 10pm Entrance – Free

3. Arco de Felipe V

The Arco de Felipe V in Ronda is a historical gateway that marks the entrance to the old part of the city , serving as a silent testament to Ronda’s rich past.

Named after King Philip V, who ordered its construction in the early 18th century, the arch is a blend of architectural styles and holds historical significance, embodying the changes the city has undergone over the centuries.

Walking through this arch feels like stepping back in time, as it leads visitors into the labyrinth of narrow streets, white-washed houses, and hidden courtyards that define Ronda’s old town.

4. Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor

Originally built on the site of a former mosque following the Reconquista, the church has evolved over centuries, showcasing a blend of architectural styles from Gothic to Baroque .

It’s not just a place of worship but also a historical landmark that reflects the cultural transitions of Ronda through time. The church’s towering presence and intricate details make it a focal point for visitors seeking to connect with the historical essence of this Andalusian gem.

Opening hours – Every Day from 10am to either 6pm, 7pm or 8 pm, depending on the season

Entrance fee – €4.5

5. Mirador de Ronda

The Mirador de Ronda is a must-visit spot when you’re in the city, offering some of the best views you can get.

It’s the perfect place to see Ronda’s famous gorge without having to do much walking. People love coming here to take photos, especially at sunset when the light is just right.

💡 TIP – You can’t see the Puente Nuevo from this viewpoint.

6. La Ciudad District

La Ciudad District, or the Old Town of Ronda, is where the city’s rich history and charm truly come to life.

This area is home to some of Ronda’s most significant historical landmarks, including the ancient Arab Baths and the beautiful Church of Santa María la Mayor. The district’s architecture is a testament to the various cultures that have left their mark on Ronda, from Moorish to Roman influences.

7. Arab Baths Archaeological Site

Dating back to the 13th and 14th centuries, these well-preserved baths are among the best examples of their kind in Spain , offering insight into the daily life and architectural ingenuity of the time.

You can explore the cold, warm, and hot rooms, similar to the Roman bath structure, and admire the star-shaped skylights that illuminate the space.

Opening hours – Every weekday from 10am until 7pm, on Saturday 10am until 6pm and on Sunday from 10am until 3pm. You can check their official time schedule here .

8. Placa Cristóbal Aguilar Barea

Placa Cristóbal Aguilar Barea in Ronda is a charming square that captures the essence of the city’s relaxed lifestyle and architectural beauty. It’s a spot where locals and visitors alike can take a moment to unwind, surrounded by the subtle yet captivating ambiance that Ronda is known for.

Whether you’re sipping on a café con leche at a nearby café or simply enjoying the gentle buzz of daily life, this plaza offers a glimpse into the everyday rhythm of Ronda

9. Enjoy the scenic Spanish countryside

The countryside around Ronda is a hiker’s paradise, offering a diverse landscape that ranges from rugged mountain ranges to tranquil valleys.

Some of the best trails include the Tajo del Abanico , a scenic route leading to a stunning natural arch, and the path through the Grazalema Natural Park, where the Pinsapar trail unveils ancient forests unique to the region.

For those seeking breathtaking vistas, the Camino de los Molinos offers a gentle walk with views of Ronda’s water mills and the surrounding countryside.

🥾 CLICK HERE FOR THE BEST HIKING TRAILS AROUND RONDA

10. Go on a day trip to another beautiful Andalusian Village

In the close vicinity of Ronda there are three other Andalusian villages that are definitely worth a visit! Especially if you’re spending 1 or 2 nights in Ronda you’ll have ample of time to explore this stunning region a little more!

Below you’ll find my 3 top picks for short day trips from Ronda, including their distance and driving time.

• Setenil de las Bodegas – Setenil de las Bodegas in Spain is a unique village famed for its whitewashed houses and shops built directly into the overhanging cliffs, creating a stunning blend of natural and man-made beauty. The distance from Ronda to Setenil de las Bodegas is approximately 18 kilometers (about 11.2 miles) , with an average driving time of around 15 to 25 minutes. This short and scenic journey takes you through the beautiful countryside of Andalusia , making it an easy and enjoyable trip from Ronda to the unique village of Setenil de las Bodegas.

• Olvera – Olvera, a picturesque town in Andalusia, Spain, captivates with its whitewashed houses, majestic castle, and panoramic views of the rolling Andalusian countryside. The driving distance from Ronda to Olvera is approximately 37 kilometers (about 23 miles) , and the average driving time is around 30 minutes. ​​

• Juzcar – Juzcar, once a traditional white Andalusian village, transformed into the world’s first “Smurf Village” with its buildings painted bright blue, becoming a whimsical attraction set amidst the stunning landscapes of southern Spain. The driving distance from Ronda to Juzcar is approximately 22 kilometers (about 13.7 miles) , with an average driving time of around 40 minutes.

The best time to visit Ronda

The best time to visit Ronda is during the spring (April to June) and fall (September to October) , when the weather is mild and the landscapes are at their most vibrant.

Special holidays and celebrations to consider include the Feria de Pedro Romero in early September , a lively festival celebrating Ronda’s bullfighting tradition with parades, music, and dance, and the Semana Santa (Holy Week) in March or April , offering a profound cultural experience with its solemn processions and rich religious ceremonies.

These times not only offer comfortable weather for exploring but also provide a glimpse into Ronda’s unique cultural festivities.

How to get to Ronda in Spain

Getting to Ronda in Spain is quite straightforward, whether you’re coming by road, rail, or air:

• By Car : Ronda is well-connected by road and can be reached easily by car from major cities in Andalusia. From Malaga, it’s about a 1.5-hour drive via the A-357 and A-367. From Seville, it takes approximately 2 hours via the A-375 and A-374.
• By Train : Ronda has a train station with services connecting to several major cities, including Malaga, Seville, and Madrid. The scenic train journey from Malaga or Seville to Ronda is particularly popular for its beautiful landscapes.
• By Bus : Various bus companies operate services to Ronda from cities like Malaga, Seville, Granada, and Marbella. Buses can be a convenient and cost-effective option, with frequent daily services.
• Nearest Airports : The closest airports to Ronda are in Malaga (about 100 km away) and Seville (about 130 km away). From these airports, you can rent a car, take a bus, or catch a train to Ronda.

Consider your starting point and preferred mode of transport to plan the most convenient and enjoyable trip to Ronda.

🚗 Rent a car in Spain by using  SunnyCars . There’s never any hidden costs with them and free cancellation up to 1 hour before rental start. Their price is transparent and everything is included.

🅿️ IN RONDA – Park your car at Parking La Merced . If you’re visiting Ronda on a day trip make sure to arrive on time otherwise all of the public parkings will be full. We arrived in Ronda on a regular weekday around 9.30am and had no problem finding a parking spot. But by the time we left around 1pm all of them were full.

How to get around Ronda

Getting around Ronda is relatively easy, thanks to its compact size and well-organized infrastructure. The best way to explore Ronda’s historic center, including its famous bridge, old town, and gardens, is on foot . The town’s main attractions are conveniently located close to each other, making walking both enjoyable and practical.

💡 TIP – Make sure to wear proper walking shoes. I was wearing ballet flats and had some trouble on the slippery cobble stones, especially when walking downhill.

Where to stay in Ronda

While it’s definitely possible to visit Ronda on a day trip I do recommend spending one night here. During the day the town can get very crowded. By spending a night you can be around for both sunset and sunrise and experience Ronda with fewer crowds.

🏨 YOU CAN FIND ALL HOTELS IN RONDA HERE

MY RECOMMENDATIONS FOR HOTELS IN RONDA

• Hotel La Fuente de la Higuera – A luxury hotel in the countryside near Ronde, surrounded by olive guards.
• Hotel Montelirio – A wonderful boutique hotel with rooms overlooking the Puente Nuevo bridge.
• Hotel Palacio de Hemingway – Stay in a historic monument and the former home of poet Pedro Pérez Clotet.

All rights reserved © Charlies Wanderings. Republishing this article and/or any of its contents (text, photography, etc.), in whole or in part, is strictly prohibited.

Charlotte Lint is the founder, main photographer and writer of Charlies Wanderings . She has traveled all over the world and is based in Belgium where she also owns her very own dental practice. She is an expert on writing insightful hiking guides and creating unique and efficient travel itineraries . Every month she helps over 134.000 people discover the most beautiful places in the world through her detailed travel guides.

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• Welcome to Ronda

The picturesque white town of Ronda is famous for its fascinating cliff-side setting along the Tajo gorge and the monumental Puente Nuevo (New Bridge) that spans across it. If it looks impressive in photos, wait until you see it in person – it will take your breath away.

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• Map of Ronda, Spain

Puente Nuevo

The two cities of ronda.

• Ronda's Viewpoints
• Royal School of Cavalry (bullring)
• Cuenca Garden & Old Bridge
• Casa del Rey Moro
• Plaza Duquesa de Parcent & Church of Santa María la Mayor
• Palacio Mondragón
• Plaza del Socorro
• Get to Ronda from...
• How to get around Ronda?

Top Hotels & Apartments in Ronda

Best restaurants, bars & cafes in ronda.

Ronda’s old Moorish quarter is surreally perched on the side of a cliff . These steep cliffs and some additional fortified walls completely surround the town. Like an island in the sky, this unique location made it perfect for a castle-like enclave.

Even though they were on top of the gorge, the Moors were able to secure water access from the Guadalevín River below. A secret tunnel was dug down nearly 100 m (300 ft) to the river which supplied water to Ronda’s residents for centuries. However, in 1485, Christian forces managed to overcome this access to the water and the Moors lost the city.

Besides the bridge and the gorge, Ronda is also the birthplace of modern bullfighting and home to one of the oldest bullrings in Spain . The interesting story of how bullfighting grew from the need to train horses for war is told in the bullfighting museum.

Today, Ronda still retains the historic charm that in the past attracted such famous writers as  Ernest Hemingway  and  Orson Welles . Beyond its impressive New Bridge and its bullfighting heritage, Ronda is a pleasure to get lost in. Its incredible location, along the walls of the canyon, makes for an array of astonishing views waiting to be discovered.

Whether it’s by wandering the narrow cobblestone streets, enjoying a cold drink on a veranda next to the New Bridge, or just watching the birds glide through the canyon – Ronda is a town that begs visitors to slow down, take in its beauty and relax.

MAP: RONDA, SPAIN

The Puente Nuevo and the Tajo gorge are Ronda’s main attractions. The striking bridge looks like something you would expect to find at the entrance to some fantasy kingdom in  Game of Thrones  or  Lord of the Rings. To say it looks “sturdy” or “heavy-duty” would be an understatement.

Ronda’s Bridge was completed in 1793 . For 34 years, workers painstakingly lifted quarried stone from the bottom of the gorge, all the way up until they reached the top – a full 98 meters (300 ft) above.

The three arches of the bridge span 70 meter (230 ft) across the Tajo Gorge , connecting the Moorish quarter known as “la ciudad” with the newer “el mercadillo” section of the city.

Today, the bridge can be admired from all along the cliffs on both sides of the gorge. You can even eat at a restaurant or have a drink on a terrace overlooking all of the drama. But if you want to see the entire bridge and get the best photo, you have to go to the bottom . For more info, tips, and history, check out our dedicated Puente Nuevo guide .

Ronda has a long history. It dates back to at least the 6 th century when it was settled by Celtiberians who called it Arunda. Later the Romans took over Ronda and it received the title of city from Julius Caesar.

But it wasn’t until 713 when the Moors arrived that the city as we know it today began to be formed. The Moors called the city Hisn Ar-Rundah (Castle of Rundah). They built walls on the eastern and southern sides of the city. These walls together with the sheer cliff drops found to the North and West created an impenetrable castle of a city.

This old Moorish medina, known locally as “la ciudad” (the city), is full of winding alleyways with whitewashed buildings. Most of this area is quite austere in appearance but there are a couple of Moorish ruins dotted throughout.

Even though the medina is known as “la ciudad,” only a very small portion of Ronda’s 35,000 inhabitants actually live here. Most live on the other side of the Tajo Gorge in an area that is known as “el mercadillo” (street market). This is the new part of the city that was built after the Christian Reconquest and once a bridge was built over the gorge.

Most of the buildings in el mercadillo date from the 18 th and 19 th century and they have a more typical Spanish style. The most important sight on this side of the city is the bullring and calvary school known as the Real Maestranza de Caballería (9€ entrance fee) which was established in 1572.

El mercadillo has much more going on than the extreme quiet on the other side. It is after all where locals actually live, so you will find more restaurants and shopping. Overall, the streets are charming and it’s a great place to take a stroll through.

For a complete list of the places of interest in the city check out the Things to do in Ronda section below.

More Things to Do in Ronda

Ronda's viewpoints.

Ronda is literally picture perfect . The setting with its two historic neighborhoods connected by an awe-inspiring bridge is breathtaking. Combine that with the natural rugged gorge and the surrounding farm lands and you have something very special.

Thankfully Ronda has no shortage of spectacular viewpoints to take it all in . Below is our list of must-see spots.

• Mirador Puente Nuevo de Ronda – This lookout is almost at the bottom of the gorge and gives the best overall views of the entire bridge . It can be accessed by a steep path from Plaza de María Auxiliadora . See our Puente Nuevo guide for more info.
• Mirador de Aldehuela – A great lookout from the top that has very easy access . It’s just enough to the side so that you can see the bridge and look down into the canyon.

• Mirador de Cuenca – Located in the Cuenca Gardens that descend down along the gorge. The incline is fairly steep but you will be rewarded with great views from about midway down of the bridge.
• Mirador de Ronda – Although you cannot view the bridge from this lookout it’s still one of our favorites because you can see all through the surrounding countryside from a birds-eye perspective.

ROYAL SCHOOL OF CAVALRY (BULLRING)

Founded in 1572, the Real Maestranza de Caballería (Royal Calvary School) de Ronda is the oldest in Spain. Calvary schools were created by the nobility under the order of King Phillip II. These schools could be defined as “nobility clubs,” which had the job to prepare the horses for battle . For training the horses, they often used bulls which ended up developing into what we now call bullfighting .

Ronda is the birthplace of modern bullfighting and home to one of the oldest bullrings in Spain. Inside the Royal School of Calvary (9€ entrance fee) you will be able to see the bullring, bullpen and horse stables.

In addition, there is a museum where you can learn how the calvary and bullfighting impacted Spain’s history and culture. Regardless of your position on bullfighting, we highly recommend a visit.

Besides the bullring and museum, Ronda’s Maestranza still runs an equestrian school . It is possible to see Spanish thoroughbred horses when you visit and if you are lucky, they might even be training.

If you are interested in seeing an actual bullfight, then you will probably find it very difficult since there is only one fight per year (go to Seville for bullfights). It happens at the beginning of September during Ronda’s largest fiesta, the Feria de Pedro Romero .

CUENCA GARDEN & OLD BRIDGE

The Cuenca Garden (Jardines de Cuenca) is a delightful small garden located right in the edge of the cliff. It offers a wonderful full view of Ronda’s famous bridge all the way down to the Tajo gorge below.

At the Cuenca Garden you will find yourself surrounded by a beautiful collection of roses. There are over 60 different varieties in this small garden.

If you have the time, make sure to visit the Jardines de Cuenca at sunset, when the views of the bridge are some of the best. Entrance to the Jardines de Cuenca is free and it is open from 9:30 am until 9:30 pm (until 6:30 pm in winter).

At the end of the Cuenca Garden you will find the old bridge which dates back to the 1300’s. It’s a beautiful setting and only steps away from the Arab Baths, found right below.

Ronda’s Arab baths (4.5€ entrance fee) are some of the best preserved in Spain. Dating back to the 13 th and 14 th centuries, pretty much everything here is original because they were actually buried underground until about a century ago.

Ronda’s Arab baths are divided in three main areas (cold, warm and hot) that can be visited today. The rooms are pretty much intact and feature beautiful horseshoe arches, brick and stone work.

Inside of the baths, there is a short video with interesting information about the baths and how they worked. Among other things, it explains how horses powered a wheel that would transport the water from the river to the baths.

Although not widely known as one of the top things to do in Ronda, the Arab baths should definitely not be missed.

CASA DEL REY MORO

Although the house is called “ house of the Moorish king ,” it was never actually lived in by any king, let alone Moorish. Instead the name comes from its Neo-mudejar architecture which pays homage to the city’s Moorish heritage and founding.

This massive 20 th century house which clings to the steep walls of the Tajo Gorge was conceived by the Duchess of Parcent. It’s actually composed of several existing 18 th century buildings that were all joined together.

The duchess commissioned Jean-Claude Nicolas Forestier (the same guy who designed the Maria Luisa Park in Seville ) to create the surrounding gardens. The gardens took inspiration from Granada’s Alhambra and Seville’s Alcazar with some traditional French influence added in.

While the house and gardens are a sight themselves, the real highlight of Casa del Rey Moro is its secret passage known as the “mina” in Spanish. The mina tunnels all the way down to the river at the bottom of the gorge.

In the 14 th century the Moors cut almost 300 steps into the rock so that they could have a safe access to water if they were under attack. The construction was quite successful and helped Ronda to be one of the last strongholds of the Moors in Spain.

However, Christian forces were able to take control of the steps in 1485 and after only 10 days, the Moors surrendered.

The house is currently closed for renovations but you can still explore the mina and the gardens for 10€.

PLAZA DUQUESA DE PARCENT & CHURCH OF SANTA MARÍA LA MAYOR

The Plaza Duquesa de Parcent is the main square in the old Moorish area of the city and is probably the most beautiful in Ronda. The center of the square is full of super tall trees with plenty of benches and a fountain – a great place to take a little break and relax.

Surrounding the green area you will find some of the city’s most important buildings such as the town hall. It was built in 1734 and in the beginning, was a military prison.

On the same square you will also find the Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor (4.5€ entrance fee). It was originally Ronda’s mosque but was later transformed into a church after the Reconquest.

The bell tower is actually the mosque’s former minaret. The church’s interior is an eclectic mixture of styles such as Moorish, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque.

PALACIO DE MONDRAGÓN

The Mondragón Palace is the real “house of the Moorish King” in Ronda. It is believed that it was built in the 14 th century for King Abd al Malik, son of Morocco’s sultan Abul Hassan. After the Christian Reconquest of 1485, the Catholic Kings used it as one of their residences.

The palace is relatively small and set around 3 patios full of Mudéjar details. There are two small gardens that butt up against the cliff’s edge and offer spectacular views of the countryside surrounding Ronda.

Currently the municipal museum is located in the palace. While the museum is not particularly noteworthy, the building itself is one of the most significant in Ronda. Admission will cost you 4€.

PLAZA DEL SOCORRO

The Plaza del Socorro is the main square in Ronda’s new city. This area is known locally as “el mercadillo” and was built by the Christians after the Reconquest in 1485. The square was mostly built later after the Spanish Independence War (1808-1814).

The square is lively and in it you will find a variety of bars and restaurants with terraces. The two most important buildings around the square are the Casino de Ronda and the Socorro Church. The Carrera Espinel crosses the square and is the main shopping street of Ronda.

Plan your Visit to Ronda, Spain

Best hotels in ronda, day trip from seville, day trip from malaga & costa del sol.

Ronda is quite small and all of the sights are located quite close to one another. The best way to get around is definitely on foot.

The only exception might be if you want to go to the viewpoint at the bottom of the gorge and you don’t want to take the footpath down. It is quite steep and strenuous so if you have any kind of mobility issues, it may be best to either drive down yourself or hire a taxi.

CATALONIA RONDA

Parador de ronda, hotel montelirio, salvatierra guesthouse, boabdil guesthouse, more hotels in ronda, apartamentos rondacentro, apartments los remedios, apartamentos espinel, apartamentos ceo - naranja, more apartments in ronda.

EXTERNAL LINKS

• Ronda's Official Tourism Website
• Ronda – Wikipedia

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How to Plan the Perfect Trip to Ronda, Spain

Here’s how to plan a trip to Ronda, the Spanish town known for bullfighting, bridges, and top-tier tapas.

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Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Ronda, a historic town in the south of Spain, is referred to as the Ciudad Soñada, or the “City of Dreams.” While the epithet is sometimes attributed to the poet Rainer Maria Rilke, Ronda has maintained a romantic aura for centuries, drawing artists like Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles to its mountaintop setting. 

A large part of Ronda’s identity can be credited to its topography and architecture. “Ronda is considered one of Spain’s most beautiful cities due to its spectacular location, the deep ravine (Tajo), and the surrounding mountains, called Serranía de Ronda,” says Maike Ange, a ToursByLocals guide based in Ronda. Puente Nuevo, or the “New Bridge,” is one of the town’s three bridges traversing the 400-foot gorge, which splits the town into El Mercadillo (“New Town”) and La Ciudad (“Old Town”). The dramatic views, however, are still just a sliver of Ronda’s appeal.

Both Ronda’s appearance and history — there’s evidence it dates back to the Neolithic period, and both Roman and Moorish ruins are still present — are impressive, yet the destination itself is far from overwhelming. “As it is a small town, you feel a sense of familiarity instantly” explains Ange. “Ronda's top sights are within walking distance, making evenings magical when the day crowds have left and romantic lights illuminate the bridge and surroundings.”

While you could easily tack on a day trip to Ronda from nearby Málaga, there’s plenty to do to justify a longer visit. “For any newcomers to Ronda, I ... recommend combining [a] walking tour with an immersive visit to the fascinating [wineries], famous olive oil mills, or the world-renowned bull ranch,” says Roland Klawitter, who also provides tours of the area. “Don't miss the iconic Goyesca Bullfight, participate in the Lady Goyesca contest, or challenge yourself by ascending the via ferrata.”

Ready to plan your trip to one of the oldest towns in Spain? Read on to discover everything you need to make the most of your time in Ronda, according to local experts.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Find out why Ronda is the “birthplace of bullfighting” at the Plaza de Toros.
• Book a room at Parador de Ronda, a hotel that mixes history with modern amenities.
• Pick out a souvenir along Calle La Bola, the main pedestrian street. 
• Reserve a table at chef Benito Gómez’s Michelin-starred Bardal.
• Get your steps in — Ronda is a compact town that's best explored on foot.

Taylor McIntyre/Travel + Leisure

Parador de Ronda 

Both Ange and Klawitter put Parador de Ronda on their list of the best hotels in the area. “Once a town hall, this hotel, located adjacent to the Puente Nuevo, provides breathtaking views of the El Tajo gorge. It's a fusion of historical allure with modern conveniences,” says Klawitter. Ange also notes its “central location and amenities,” the latter of which includes a seasonal swimming pool, an art collection, and a walkable garden. 

Catalonia Reina Victoria 

Ange describes Catalonia Reina Victora as a traditional hotel that still feels “one of a kind.” “Even after renovations in recent years, it retains the charm of its historic roots, with beautiful views and lush gardens surrounding the property,” she says. Klawitter also says the hotel was “once frequented by poet Rainer Maria Rilke.”

Hotel La Fuente de la Higuera

“If you prefer to stay in the outskirts of the city, Hotel La Fuente de la Higuera is a charming rural hotel, located a few kilometers [away],” says Ange. Guests can expect homey rooms and suites — most come with their own fireplaces — as well as private terraces, an outdoor pool, and plenty of space to rest and relax. 

Blanchi Costela/Getty Images

Plaza de Toros

“The Plaza de Toros de Ronda is the oldest and most beautiful bullring in Spain. Make sure to see this historic arena, which is only used for bullfights three days of the year during the Feria de Pedro Romero festival,” says Ange. Klawitter also shares that during the festival — hosted the first week of September — a “vibrant procession of horse-drawn carriages around Ronda's streets” is paired with the Corridas Goyescas (the bullfights), and “everyone, from spectators to matadors, dresses in traditional 18th-century Goyesque attire.” “Even if bullfighting isn't your cup of tea, the remarkable architecture and storied history make it a must-visit,” he adds, noting that the bullring “houses a museum detailing the evolution of the sport since the 18th century, and the audio-guided tour is both enlightening and memorable.”

Puente Nuevo

“The New Bridge is the symbol of Ronda and certainly is its main attraction,” says Ange. You can check it off your to-do list quickly, but to fully experience the bridge, she says, you need to “walk around it from all angles using the various paths along the Tajo ravine.” As a starting point, you can see both the bridge and its waterfall from the Arco del Cristo viewpoint. Another option is the Jardines de Cuenca, where the Mirador de Cuenca provides an amazing bridge scene. 

Rory Fuller/Travel + Leisure

“The Arab Baths in Ronda were built at the end of the 13th century, during the period of Islamic rule in the Iberian Peninsula. The baths are located near the old bridge (Puente Viejo) in the historic part of Ronda. They're situated on the banks of the river, which is where they would have sourced the water,” says Klawitter. They’re designed with three zones (cold, warm, and hot rooms); each is a fascinating look into the architecture of the period. 

Via Ferrata

For more active travelers, the via ferrata is an adrenaline-pumping, strength-testing way to get a different view of Ronda’s attractions. Difficulty levels vary among via ferrata routes, but Ronda’s course tends to be good for beginners, who will spend a couple of hours climbing along the path’s steel fixtures.

Mondragón Palace

For a dose of Ronda history, head to Mondragón Palace, a Moorish building from the 14th century. Home to the Ronda Municipal Museum, it’s the perfect place to learn more about the town's past inhabitants and understand how Ronda has changed over the last several hundred years. Make sure to save time for the palace’s photogenic courtyards and water gardens overlooking the gorge. 

Calle La Bola

“Calle La Bola (also known as Carrera Espinel) is the primary shopping hub in Ronda, boasting an eclectic mix of traditional and contemporary stores. From artisanal crafts to chic boutiques, there's something for every shopper,” says Klawitter. You’ll find Calle La Bola in El Mercadillo, and the entire street is just over a half mile. 

Convent of the Barefoot Carmelites

Not too far from Calle La Bola sits one of Ange’s shopping highlights. “For travelers who love local specialties, I recommend the cookies and sweets prepared and sold at the Convent of the Barefoot Carmelites, where you can purchase keepsakes sold by the nuns stationed in an enclosure beside the Church of Our Lady of Mercy,” she shares. 

Ronda may be small in size, but its culinary options are far from underwhelming. Case in point: chef Benito Gómez’s Bardal . “For fine dining in Ronda, visit the two-star Michelin restaurant Bardal. It draws foodies who appreciate creative, locally sourced cuisine paired with select wines,” says Ange. 

Also owned by chef Gómez, Tragatá “serves up small plates and local dishes made with products from the area,” says Ange. Klawitter describes the tapas bar as a “culinary gem offering a contemporary take on classic Andalusian dishes.”

Pedro Romero 

According to Ange, Pedro Romero is a top Ronda restaurant, thanks to its “traditional Spanish cuisine like suckling pig, roasted lamb, and bull tail stew.” Plus, its visual identity is incredibly unique: “With its decor of bullfighter photos and autographs, it recalls the atmosphere of the bullfighting ring,” she explains. 

The best times to visit Ronda are the spring and fall. “During the peak summer season... it is extremely hot, with [temperatures] around 104 degrees Fahrenheit during the day,” says Ange, who suggests travelers visit in April, May, September, or October. According to Klawitter, these months give way to “ideal conditions.” “The weather is moderate, and nature is in full splendor, with spring boasting wildflowers and fall showcasing warm autumnal shades,” he says.

Ronda is located between Seville and Málaga, allowing for multiple transportation options for travelers making their way to the town. The nearest airports are Málaga-Costa del Sol Airport (AGP) and Seville Airport (SVQ), both of which are under a two-hour drive away. If travelers don’t care to rent a car to navigate Ronda, they can opt to take the train or bus; the latter is usually the more affordable option.

Include walking shoes on your pack list , as you’ll need comfortable footwear to get the most out of your trip. “Walking is the most immersive way to explore Ronda” says Klawitter. “Given its compact nature, the town's major attractions are easily accessible by foot.”

Ronda Travel Guide: Top Things to Do on a Day Trip

Ronda is one of those villages that simply can’t get any more spectacular. Perched on a rugged rock plateau high above a gorge, it is adjoined by the photogenic stone bridge called Puente Nuevo. No doubt Ronda is one of the most popular travel destinations in Andalusia for a reason.

In this blog article, you will find out what there is to experience on a day trip to Ronda. We will also share with you the most beautiful sights in Ronda and reveal our personal tips. To make sure you don’t miss any of the highlights, we have put together a city tour that will guide you around the most important locations in Ronda.

1. Ronda Travel Guide: Interesting & Important Facts

2. what to do & see in ronda: discover the most beautiful places in a day, 3. restaurants and cafes in ronda: our tips.

• 4. Accommodation in Ronda: Where to Stay? 

Ronda is one of the most popular travel destinations in Andalusia and for good reason. The small town sits enthroned on a rocky plateau and is indescribably photogenic. Known for its monumental stone bridge called Puente Nuevo , it spans the El Tajo gorge , which drops down to about 100 meters deep. The bridge separates the historic Old Town of Ronda (La Ciudad) from the younger district of El Mercadillo.

Ronda is one of the famous white villages in Andalusia, so the white houses are a typical sight here in Ronda – some have even been built directly on the abyss. Despite being home to around 35,000 inhabitants, the winding streets of the Old Town are more reminiscent of a small mountain village.

How much time should I spend in Ronda?

We ourselves (as you can see from the title of the article) visited Ronda as a day trip . Since it’s pretty easy to get around, a few hours in Ronda would be enough to see all the most important sights.

However, next time, we would probably choose to spend a night in Ronda (or nearby), as we feel like you could then enjoy your time there a bit more. Ronda is typically rather busy, especially during the high seasons, so you can use the quieter evening and morning hours to sight-see.

Is Ronda Touristic?

Given that Ronda is the most famous of the white villages in Andalusia, you can probably already guess what’s coming: Yes, Ronda is super touristy . More specifically, it is one of the most touristic destinations in all of Andalusia. We read a wide range of review and opinions in advance – everything from “crowds” to “half as bad” was included.

Our conclusion: We personally did not experience Ronda as overcrowded. However, we have to say that we visited Ronda in November, which is in the off-season. We can imagine that things would look very different in the high season. But at the same time, the city is so magically beautiful that you could easily forgive that.

In this section, we are going to share with you the best places for sightseeing in Ronda. We have arranged them in such a way that they create the perfect route for a self-guided tour . In just a few hours, it will take you around all the main highlights of the city. We have also pinned the locations mentioned here in a map at the end of the blog article, so that you can get a better picture of where everything is.

Carrera Espinel & Plaza del Socorro

Let’s start by the parking garage at the end of Carrera Espinel. (You can park your car here for 1.50 Euros per hour. The exact location can be found on the map at the end of the article.) Carrera Espinel is Ronda’s main shopping street. Follow the road towards the centre to the bullring. You can make a short stop at the Plaza del Socorro.

Bullring of Ronda (Plaza de Toros)

If you want to visit a bullring in Spain, now is a good time to do so. The Ronda bullring is one of the most beautiful and oldest in Spain . Aside from this rather questionable tradition, the building is simply stunning to look at.

From the outside, the arena is simple and not overly astounding – it’s only once you’re inside that it shows off how impressive it really is. You can walk along the bleachers and enter the battle area. The arena also has a small museum (Museo Taurino), which you can visit, as well as the stables.

Although bullfights still happen in the arena these days – it’s very rare, which is a good thing. September is the month of the Festival de Pedro Romero, making it a popular month to experience the bullfights.  

Another tip: If you just want to have a bird’s eye view of the arena , then go to the roof terrace of the Hotel Catalonia Ronda . With an espresso in hand, you can enjoy the view of the bullring quite comfortably from there. This is also the hotel we would recommend when staying in Ronda. We’ll tell you more about it at the end of this blog article.

Information about visiting the Bullring

Price: 8 Euros per person (9.50 Euros with audio guide) Opening times: November to February from 10 am to 6 pm, March and October from 10 am to 7 pm, April to September from 10 am to 8 pm

Mirador de Ronda

Before you arrive at the famous Mirador de Ronda, just walk a little bit further north from the bullring to the Parque Alameda del Tajo . From there, you have a great view of the beautiful landscape around Ronda.

As you continue south along the Paseo de Orson Welles, you will then pass by some viewpoints . One of the best known is the Mirador de Ronda at the pavilion , although from here, you can’t quite see the bridge just yet. Keep walking past the terrace of the Parador Hotel (Cafetería del Parador) and from there, you will have a wonderful view of the Puente Nuevo bridge and the El Tajo gorge.

Extra Tip: At the start of the bridge, you see the Centro de Interpretación del Puente Nuevo. You can go down a few stairs here and visit a room below the bridge. The entry fee is only 2.50 Euros, but in our opinion it’s not super worth it.

Jardines de Cuenca (with Mirador de Cuenca)

Before you walk over the Puente Nuevo bridge (which we will save for later), follow the street for a little while longer. Our next destination is the Jardines de Cuenca. These terraced gardens are particularly worth seeing during its blooming season.

Looking back towards the Puente Nuevo, you will have an incredible view and photo opportunity – this time from the other side. There are significantly fewer people in the Jardines de Cuenca than in the area around the bridge. We would imagine the gardens to be very lush, especially during the summer season. Entry is free.

Leave the Jardines de Cuenca at the lower entrance and walk over the Puente Viejo bridge . It is the oldest of the three bridges in Ronda. From the bridge you can already see the next destination on the left: the Baños Árabes – the historic Arab baths.

Baños Árabes de Ronda

Dating back to the 13th century, these historic Arab baths of Ronda are among the best preserved in Spain. Especially on the inside, you can almost imagine how things must have been here. There is also a short video explaining how the baths work. Overall, the Baños Árabes was a pretty quick visit.

To reach the Baños Árabes from the Puente Viejo, you have to go a little bit downhill. If you don’t have much time, you might consider skipping this stop altogether. In our opinion, this wasn’t a huge highlight, especially when compared to the rest of the Ronda. However, they were certainly very interesting to see.

Information about visiting the Baños Árabes

Admission: 3.50 Euros (free on Tuesday from 3 pm) Opening times: Monday to Friday from 10am to 6pm (7pm in summer); Saturday, Sunday and public holidays from 10 am to 3 pm

Mirador Puente Nuevo de Ronda: The Perfect Photo Spot

The Mirador Puente Nuevo de Ronda is, without a doubt, one of the best view points in the city . For those who are more sure-footed and up for an adventure, this is definitely something you should not miss! From the Baños Árabes (or the Puente Viejo, if you skipped the Baños Árabes), simply walk uphill again towards the Old Town (La Ciudad) – which we will cover soon.

To get to the viewpoint, start at the Plaza de María Auxiliadora . It should take you down to the lookout point in about 10 minutes. Neither the path nor the viewpoint are well signposted, but it’s pretty hard to get lost. Caution: if you are travelling with children, just beware that there is no railing! So you have to be extra careful with your footing.  

From the lookout point, you are rewarded with a stunning perspective of the bridge and gorge. A real postcard motif from Ronda.

La Ciudad (The Old Town of Ronda) with the Plaza Duquesa de Parcent

Once you’ve walked back to the top, it’s time to explore the Old Town of Ronda – also called La Ciudad. With its narrow, winding streets, white houses and magnificent buildings, it’s hard not to be charmed. The buildings in this Old Town dates back to the time of the Moorish rule.

One of the most significant sights in the Old Town is the Church of Santa María la Mayor . Unfortunately, it was closed when we visited, but the view from up the tower is said to be very worthwhile. The church is located in the Plaza Duquesa de Parcent , a beautiful square where you’ll also find the Town Hall.

Walk across the Puente Nuevo

Last but not least: It’s time to cross the most famous bridge in Ronda – the Puente Nuevo. Until now, you have only admired this bridge from various angles around the city. But the last highlight of your day trip will be the walk over the famous bridge itself.  

You are rewarded with spectacular views from the bridge , looking down about a hundred metres on both sides into the El Tajo gorge. Once you cross the bridge, you can get from the Old Town (La Ciudad) back to the newer district of El Mercadillo. If you head back towards the Carrera Espinel, you will arrive back to the starting point of your tour.

Since Ronda is rather touristic, there is a large selection of restaurants to choose from. Here are some of our personal recommendations.

BioPicnic:   Small, secluded café located on a side street in the middle of the historic Old Town. Perfect place for a little snack in between. They have delicious freshly squeezed juices, coffee, cakes and small snacks – all organic!

Restaurante Las Maravillas:   Restaurant located directly on the shopping street near the bullring. Serving excellent tapas in a modern, cozy atmosphere. The vegetarian selection is limited, but we still really enjoyed it.

Restaurant with a view of the bridge:   In Ronda, it is very popular to enjoy a solid lunch or dinner with a view of the bridge and the gorge. We personally haven’t visited any of these restaurants, but the restaurants of the Hotel Parador and the Restaurante Albacara are rather well-known and have very good reviews.

4. Accommodation in Ronda: Where to Stay?  

Unfortunately, we decided against spending a night in Ronda and instead just did a day trip from Málaga . However, we would probably do it differently next time. If we had booked a hotel, our choice would have definitely been the Catalonia Ronda .

The hotel is located next to the bullring, so it’s very central. The rooms are modern and spacious. One of the highlights is the awesome rooftop pool with a beautiful view of the arena and the surrounding landscape. Breakfast is also said to be very good.

You can view and book the hotel here: Catalonia Ronda

Disclaimer: Affiliate Links

This blog article contains our personal recommendations in the form of affiliate links. If you book or buy something through these links, then we will receive a small commission. This does not change the price for you at all. A million thanks from the both of us!

Have you ever been to Ronda? We would love to hear about your experiences and tips. Perhaps you’re planning a trip to Ronda and still have some questions for us? Either way, we look forward to reading your comments below!

You might also be interested in this

Two Week Road Trip through Andalusia: Our Travel Itinerary

Córdoba Travel Guide: Our top Tips & Things to do

Seville Travel Guide: Best Things to do and see

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Ronda in Andalusia: our ideas of things to do in (and around) the city

After spending a week in Ronda, we share with you this small guide of our highlights in and around the city of Ronda

Last Update: 30/01/2024 0 COMMENT

When it comes to Andalusia , the small white town of Ronda is usually one of the first places people think of (and after visiting the region, it’s easy to understand why). Ideally located inland between the cities of Sevilla and Málaga , it is an excellent stop on a road trip through the region on the way to the famous Caminito del Rey or the beautiful natural park of El Torcal de Antequera .

Ronda is a beautiful example of an Andalusian city with its Arab influences, its palaces, its white houses, its emblematic bridge that overlooks the El Tajo gorge… It is also considered the spiritual capital of bullfighting (although we have to say that we think this tradition is outdated and cruel).

But in our opinion, Ronda is much more than that! Ideally located in a spectacular natural setting between the Sierras de Grazalema and Las Nieves ranges, it is also a small paradise for nature lovers and hikers like us.

So let’s get started!

A brief history of the city of Ronda in Andalusia

Puente nuevo: ronda’s bridge and emblem, the ronda bullring, the almocabar gate and the arab walls, the arab baths, the cuenca garden, the plaza duquesa de parcent, palaces of ronda, the most beautiful viewpoints and miradors of ronda, a hike in ronda to discover the whole city, the wines of ronda, our favorite restaurants in ronda, where to stay in ronda (hotel, apartments), the white village of setenil de las bodegas, the white village of olvera, the cueva del gato (cat cave), the cueva del hundidero, the natural park of sierra de grazalema, the national park sierra de las nieves, the caminito del rey region, our map of things to do in and around ronda.

Let’s make it short but to understand what you will discover in Ronda, a brief historical reminder is necessary 🙂 . Ronda is in fact one of the oldest cities in Spain and there are traces of human presence in the region that date back to the Paleolithic. Although it was already established in Roman times, the city of Ronda really took off during the Islamic period (between the 8th and 15th centuries), which left an important cultural heritage. In fact, you can admire some of the remains of this period, such as the Almocabar gate , the city walls and the Arab baths .

In 1485 Ronda was reconquered by the Catholic kings , who would complete the reconquista a few years later by taking the city of Granada, the last Moorish stronghold on the Iberian Peninsula. From that date on, the Christians would construct new buildings that are still part of Ronda’s heritage today (churches, the Mondragon Palace ).

Finally, it is not until the eighteenth century that the most emblematic monuments of the city were built, along with the new bridge and the rise of bullfighting and the Ronda bullring . It was also from this time that Ronda acquired an image of a romantic city after many artists and travelers had depicted the beauties of the city.

Our ideas of things to do in Ronda, Spain

Well, let’s move on, so what did we do in Ronda during the week we stayed there? (well, we didn’t only visit, we also worked a little bit but well… we took our time 🙂 )

As I mentioned earlier, Ronda was built on a rocky promontory, split in two by the Guadalevin River, which carved out El Tajo , a deep gorge that is more than 100 meters high in some places. To connect the old city (palace side) with the new one (bullring side), it was decided in the 18th century to build an imposing bridge at this location (the Puente Nuevo). The bridge that you can admire today is in fact the 2nd attempt to build it since the first one collapsed in 1741, killing 50 people in the process. The result is a massive bridge of more than 100m high that has become the emblem of the city.

But as you can imagine, if it is called the new bridge, it is because there are also other older bridges. If you go down a little bit along the gorge, you will find the Puente Viejo (old bridge) which used to be the main link between the old and the new city. And if you go down to the Arab baths, you will also find the Arab bridge , which is the oldest one and dates back to the Moorish period in Ronda.

There are several ways to discover the bridge of Ronda:

• We suggest that you discover this magnificent architectural work in all its aspects from the different viewpoints around the bridge (next to the Parador Hotel, the Aldehuela viewpoint, the Cuenca gardens or by taking the path that goes down to the bridge’s base). But we’ll talk about the best viewpoints in Ronda in more detail below.
• You can also go down to the chamber above the central arch of the bridge, which is now a small museum about the bridge. You have to pay an entrance fee (2,5€) but it will allow you to see the arches of the bridge from below and to learn more about its construction. By the way, the museum room was once a prison and some prisoners were executed by being thrown down the bridge through the small opening visible from the outside.

Even if we think that corrida and bullfighting are among those traditions that should disappear as soon as possible, the city of Ronda is considered by some as the cradle of modern bullfighting . The Romero family, a famous lineage of matadors whose Francesco Romero would be the first to have perfected the “art” of using the muleta (the red cloth) and the sword to kill the bull, comes from Ronda.

The Ronda bullring dates back to 1785 and was built by Martin de Aldehuela, the architect who also designed the New Bridge. It is considered to be one of the most beautiful bullrings in Spain and it was here that Pedro Romero (Francesco’s grandson), one of the most important figures in bullfighting, performed… This dear Pedro is said to have killed 5600 bulls during his career without being scratched once. A real matador!

Anyway, we didn’t visit the bullring of Ronda (we didn’t really want to support the bullfighting tradition with those 16€) but you can visit it and a bullfighting museum for something like 8€ per person.

You will find the Almocabar gate (13th century) at the entrance to the Ronda’s old town and it was the main entrance to the city in its Muslim era. If you enter the old town through the gate and continue a little further, you will come across another section of wall from that era that has been completely restored.

Frankly, with such a geographical situation (on a rocky promontory on the edge of a cliff) and such strong walls, you will understand why Ronda was difficult to retake 😉

It happens that in Ronda you will also find the best preserved Arab baths of the Iberian peninsula … the problem is that we went there early in the morning (we were starting a beautiful day hike to discover Ronda that we’ll talk about below) before the opening which is at 10 am I think. Therefore we could only look at them from the outside 🙁 #Fail

Now that you know about that, you won’t make the same mistake and you will be able to see this yourself. Apparently, the irrigation system and the boiler room are still very well preserved, and you will also be able to visit the 3 thermal bath rooms that had 3 different temperatures. From what we read, it’s 4,5€ well invested 😉

This is clearly one of our favorite places in Ronda. These gardens are suspended at the edge of the El Tajo gorge (on the side of the new town) and will offer you a spectacular view of the gorge and the Puente Nuevo (and the Viejo too). You will pass from flowered terraces to flowered terraces through small staircases that connect the old bridge to the Plaza España.

And if you wonder why the gardens are called “of Cuenca” , it is because Ronda is twinned with this beautiful Ecuadorian city from which we have excellent memories (at the time of our round the world tour).

Located just behind the Almocabar gate and its walls, the Duquesa de Parcent square is, in our opinion, the prettiest square in the city. It was the heart of the old Medina of Ronda in the time of the Moors. Today it is a very lively square surrounded by magnificent historical monuments such as the church of Santa Maria la Mayor and the town hall. You will also find several nice sunny terraces where you can have a drink or a bite after a day of visits.

On the old town side of Ronda, there are several palaces (or Palacio) some of which can even be visited. As for us, we did not visit the interior of these monuments because we always had our dog Winchy with us. But we were able to admire them from the outside and if you come to Ronda we recommend you to have a look at the following palaces:

• Mondragón Palace (municipal museum): This palace is one of the most important monuments in Ronda and was the home of the last city governor. Today it houses the Archaeological Museum of Ronda, but it is most visited for its beautiful interior courtyards and gardens overlooking the cliffs.
• Palace of the Moorish King and its water mine: Just across the gorge from the Cuneca gardens, on the other side of the El Tajo, is the palacio del rey Moro. Unfortunately, the house itself cannot be visited and it is only possible to visit the hanging gardens over the gorge (which we saw from the other side). It is also possible to go down to the Guadalevin river via a staircase built into a crack in the rock. In the Moorish era, this construction was one of the main sources of water for the city and many Christian slaves used these stairs every day to bring water. Apparently, this building was also the weak point of Ronda when it was reconquered by the Catholics in 1485.
• Salvatierra Palace : I don’t think you can visit this palace, but its baroque front facade is impressive… and as it is only a few steps away from the Palace of the Moorish King, it would be a shame not to take a look at it.

As you can see, Ronda is a magnificent city with an extremely rich and varied historical heritage. To discover it under its most attractive views, we share with you below the viewpoints that we liked best in Ronda (you will also find them all on our interactive map at the end of the article):

New bridge viewpoints

Since the Puente Nouevo is the emblem of Ronda, there are several viewpoints that will let you enjoy it from all sides. Here are the ones we liked best:

• Mirador de Aldehuela : Located right next to the bridge, on the old part side of the city, it offers a breathtaking view of the el Tajo Gorge and the bridge.
• The Cuenca Gardens : as explained above , these gardens overlook El Tajo and offer a superb panorama of the entire gorge, the old and new bridges and the Moorish king’s palace just opposite.
• The Puente Nuevo mirador (from below) : from the alley that continues behind the Mondragon palace, there is a path that goes down to the bottom of the cliff and offers various really impressive views of the bridge (especially in the afternoon and at night). This path is also used by the people who do the Via Ferrata in Ronda (they were coming out of the Via Ferrata as we were passing by and it looked really nice). The path also allows you to go to the base of the bridge, in the El Tajo gorge. To be done absolutely even if it is a goot climb to come back up 😉

The viewpoints of the city of Ronda

• Ronda lookout point (from afar) : Frankly it is certainly the mirador that we preferred and also the one where we went the most often (since it was in general the morning walk with the dog from the camping). It is located at the edge of an agricultural track towards the Virgen de la Cabeza chapel (1st photo below). The viewpoint is on the first hill in front of Ronda and offers a spectacular view of the entire city center with the bridge, the cliff and the El Tajo gorge. If you don’t mind a little walking, we highly recommend this place!
• The English Promenade : This promenade runs along the edge of the Ronda cliff and offers a spectacular view of the surrounding mountains and all the houses on the cliff side. At the end of the walk, you will come to the el Tajo gorge and have a beautiful view of the Puente Nuevo (this is also where the entrance is located to go down under the bridge and visit the museum).
• Ronda Cliffs Viewpoint : This viewpoint is on the hike I’m going to suggest just below and offers a very nice view of the whole cliff of Ronda. It is clearly not the perspective of the city that you will see most often in photo but we liked this place a lot.
• old town viewpoint : If you’re too lazy to walk to the Ronda lookout point that I mentioned first, you can also come to this one, which is located at the outskirts of the old town, right next to the Torre del Predicatorio. From there you’ll have a great view of the old town (but you won’t see the bridge)

You start to know us, if we can get a nice hike to discover a place, it will always be our first choice 😉 . And for Ronda we suggest you an itinerary of 9kms that passes by all the points mentioned above except the Ronda lookout point that we did during the morning walk of Winchy.

So if you are not afraid to walk 9kms and you want to discover Ronda while hiking, we can hardly recommend you a better hike 😉

This beautiful walk, half urban and half rural, starts at the entrance of the old city, in front of the Almocabar gate. It will first take you to discover the old Medina starting with the walls, the Arab baths to go up on the left side of El Tajo to pass in front of the Moorish king’s palace.

Staying on the side of the old city, you will discover for the first time the Puente Nuevo from the Mirador de Aldehuela before heading to the Mondragon Palace. You will leave the city to go down to the base of the cliffs by a beautiful path with impressive views. Then you will follow a small road through fields and almond trees before going back up along the cliffs to the new town.

At the La Merced church, turn right into the Alameda del Tajo park and then take the English walk while enjoying beautiful views of the surrounding mountains. After passing the Ronda bullring, you will find the Puente Nuevo to continue on the other side of the el Tajo gorge through the gardens of Cuenca. After crossing the old bridge, you will finish this hike in the heart of the old city passing by the plaza de la duquesa de Parcent where you can have a well deserved beer (and/or eat some tapas 😉 )

So, not bad as a scenic walk in Ronda, right?

Speaking of hikes, there is also a free walking tour in Ronda . If you don’t know the idea yet, you go on a walking tour of a city with a guide (in a small group). The tour is “free” but you have the possibility of tipping the guide if you enjoyed the visit and his explanations. Every time we visit a city, it is always the first thing we try to do because it gives a very good overview of the city and the things to do. We wanted to make the free walking tour of Ronda but as we were in low season, it was cancelled each time due to the lack of people 🙁 . #Snifff

Another thing we like about the Ronda region is that it produces very good wines (with the denomination of origin Sierra de Ronda). The wine tradition in the region goes back to Roman times! But with the arrival of the Arabs on the Iberian Peninsula, the viticulture obviously took a hit (since they were not supposed to drink alcohol).

The wine production started again after the reconquest under the impulse of the monks who cultivated the vineyards around their abbeys. However, it went through another difficult period with the arrival of phylloxera (as was the case throughout Europe in the 19th century) and then the civil war and the world wars in the 20th century.

It was not until the 1980s that the first winegrowers moved back to the Ronda region to revive this almost extinct tradition. Nowadays, many wineries have developed in the region… We certainly could not taste everything but we enjoyed a lot the wines that we tried around Ronda.

Besides, if you are interested in wine tourism, there is a wine route in Ronda and we suggest you read this blog post that will tell you a lot more about the wines of the region. And to taste the wines of Ronda, we recommend you our 1st favorite restaurant in Ronda below.

So you can imagine, we obviously didn’t try all the restaurants in Ronda. But well, considering that we stayed one week in the area and that we had not eaten a lot outside until then in Andalusia (the advantages to have a van and to be able to cook), we took the opportunity to go out in Ronda with Tapas and Vino Tinto as our goal 😉 .

Here are our favorite restaurants in Ronda (you will find them on the map at the end of the article):

• Entre Vinos : This is without a doubt our favorite in the Tapas – red wine category in Ronda. The restaurant is very small (so try to come early) but has a lot of charm. The tapas are original, delicious and there are even vegetarian options (which is rare enough to be noted in Spain). Moreover they have a great choice of wines which come only from the region of Ronda with a beautiful selection by the glass. We left with several bottles to take away for the van… and to crown it all, the value for money is great!
• Toro Tapas : We stopped in this restaurant during the hike we described above. It is located just a stone’s throw from the Ronda bullring and offers a nice selection of tapas and wines from the region (special mention for the boletus risotto and the eggplant with honey).
• Las Tablas : So we didn’t manage to test this restaurant ourselves because they were closed for vacations when we visited. But a reader assured us that it had been their best restaurant of all their stay in Spain (and the online reviews seem to be unanimous)… so we took the liberty to recommend it to you.

In our case, we left our van at the camping El Sur which is a little bit outside the city of Ronda (20 minutes walking to the center). We found that this place was good but not very practical to go out to eat in town since we had to walk quite a bit to reach the center.

If you are looking for a hotel or an accommodation in the center of Ronda, we recommend you to have a look at Booking or simply to use the interactive map below:

Our ideas of things to do around the city of Ronda

Well, now that you know what to see in Ronda itself, we’ll share with you below all our favorite things to do or see around the city of Ronda . As we said at the beginning of this blog post, the city of Ronda has an interesting location between the ranges of Sierras de Grazalema and Las Nieves. It is a real little paradise for the nature and hiking lovers that we are… And as we are in Andalusia, there are also real gems of small white villages typical of the region around Ronda.

As always, we don’t pretend to have seen or done everything in the area (there is plenty to keep you busy for months)… But we simply share what we liked the most among the visits we made. Let’s go!

Setenil de las Bodegas (15 kilometres north of Ronda) is a truly atypical place, since part of the village is built under a rocky overhang on the banks of the Trejo River. The troglodyte houses of Setenil are more impressive than other houses of this type that we have seen in Andalusia precisely because of the rocks that advance above the front of the houses, creating a kind of natural pergola 😉

Setenil is quite a touristy village and we really recommend you to come in the morning or at the end of the day to avoid the crowds from the tourist buses. Otherwise, here is what we think you should not miss in Setenil de la Bodegas:

• Calle Cuevas del Sol : This is clearly the most touristy street at the entrance of the village but there is plenty of reason for it. This is where you’ll find several bars/restaurants along the river with terraces shaded by the rocky overhang. Really impressive!
• Calle Cuevas de la Sombra : This street is well named because here the rocks cover completely the street with houses on both sides. So we really have the impression to be in a tunnel whose side walls are houses… Quite crazy!
• Calle Herreria : C’est la ruelle piétone assez pentue qui monte jusqu’au château contre les rochers (d’ailleurs le château se visite s’il est ouvert). C’est certainement ma ruelle préférée du village car plus calme que les 2 premières citées ci-dessus.
• Mirador del Carmen : Located at the top of a staircase in front of the castle, you will have an unobstructed view of the castle and a part of the village below.
• Mirador de Calle San Sebastian : Located at the edge of the main road (CA-4223) which passes above the village, you will have a splendid view on the whole village. There is room to park the car at the side of the road if it is not too big but if not just walk up 😉

It is honestly not easy to choose a nicer white village than another one in Andalusia (and besides we will certainly write a blog post about the villages we preferred during our trip in Andalusia) but Olvera is clearly at the top of our list.

Built on a hillside, at the foot of a 12th century fortress and an imposing church, Olvera makes an impression from quite a distance. It is not the most famous place in Andalusia but it was clearly one of our best surprises of the trip!

In Olvera, we recommend you not to miss the following things:

• Visit the Arab castle : This is the visit not to be missed in Olvera! For 2€/pers, you can visit this imposing fortress and climb to the top of the highest tower to have an incredible view of the village, the olive groves and the surrounding mountains. Simply spectacular!
• The Olvera cemetery : It is located literally under the dungeon of the castle and is just very beautiful and well maintained with beautiful views of the surroundings.
• Church of the Encarnación and it’s square : The church is the 2nd symbol of Olvera and the view from the esplanade in front of it is superb. Even if we strongly recommend you to pay the 2€ for the castle visit which offers the most beautiful views, the church square is not bad either 😉
• Calle Llana : Magnificent colored street with beautiful well-kept facades to go up to the church and the castle.
• Mirador Sanctuario de los Remedios : Located 2 km from the center, this sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary especially caught our attention because of the magnificent view it offers over Olvera. To the left of the sanctuary there is a small hill from which you will have the most beautiful view.

The Cueva del Gato is located at the eastern end of the Grazalema Natural Park and together with the Hundidero Cave, it forms an underground complex with more than 8 km of caves and 25 lakes. The river actually gushes out of the cat cave through a waterfall forming a beautiful translucid pond right in front of the cave. Even if it is not possible to explore the cueva del Gato without a speleologist guide, the visit is well worth it just for the waterfall, the pond and for the hiking possibilities in the area. Besides we made a nice hike around this cave which we talk about in the post below:

Surprisingly less known than the Cueva del Gato, the Hundidero cave is, in our opinion, even more worthwhile than its cat counterpart. To get there you have to dive into a gorge not far from the village of Montejaque, and this cave marks the entrance to the underground complex I mentioned earlier.

Once at the bottom of the gorge, you will find yourself at the entrance of the Cueva which measures more than 50m high. We tried to explore a little further inside the cave but it is quickly very dark and we could hardly advance more than 100m without equipment. Anyway, we found this cave very impressive and we warmly recommend you to take a trip there.

The Sierra de Grazalema is one of the two natural parks that surround the city of Ronda. It is known for its kharstic mountains, its caves (of which the 2 mentioned above), its pretty white villages as well as the numerous wild animals that can be found there (vultures, eagles, bats…). It is recognized as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO since 1977.

So as we spent 2-3 days in the park, I am not going to summarize you all you can do there in a few lines here. But as we are nice people, we prepared a whole post about the Sierra de Grazalema with our highlights in the park, the hikes we did and all the useful information to visit it.

The Sierra de las Nieves is the second natural park around Ronda and has been recognized as a biosphere reserve by UNESCO since 1995. It is named like this because in winter, it is not uncommon for the highest peaks of the park to be covered with snow (such as the Torrecilla, which reaches 1919 meters). It has also been declared the 16th national park in Spain in 2021 (the third in Andalusia).

We had planned to go to hike to the summit of the Torrecilla but unfortunately the weather was not with us (we did not want to hike in the snow… we save that for Switzerland 😉 ). So we preferred to leave aside the Sierra de las Nieves for this time! But if you are interested, here is the hike that we wanted to do on Wikiloc .

Finally, I also wanted to mention the area around the Caminito del Rey which is located just 60kms northeast of Ronda. You’ve probably already heard of this trail which is one of the most famous attractions in Spain. The Caminito del Rey is certainly worth a visit (even if it is very touristy) but in our opinion, it is also worthwhile to linger a little longer around the Caminito to do other hikes. There are some gems in this area and it would be a real shame in our opinion not to take the time to do a little more than the Caminito del Rey 😉

For all the information, we let you have a look at our 2 posts about the Caminito del Rey region below

Clearly the best way to visit Ronda and its surroundings is to have your own means of transportation. There is a train and bus station in Ronda, but public transportation will not get you everywhere. By bus you can go to Setenil, Olvera or the Caminito area (although it is difficult to go to the caves or the parks) but there is often only one bus per day which is not very practical. To see the bus schedules, the easiest way is to check the Omio website .

But if not, as usual we recommend you to rent your own vehicle. Andalusia is a great place for a roadtrip and you will be much more flexible this way. To rent a car, you can compare offers on the rentalcars website and if you want to try renting a van, we’ve written a complete guide on this topic to help you.

Then, if you are only in Andalusia for a few days only and have little time, you can find day trips that will take you to Ronda and other white villages of Andalusia from big cities like Sevilla or Malaga.

So much to do in and around Ronda, eh? To help you find it all, we have prepared a small Google map with all the places and addresses mentioned in the post.

That’s it for the Ronda region in Andalusia. We hope that this post will have been useful to you and we will see you very soon for the rest of our adventures in the south of Spain. And as usual, if you have been here and have additional information or favorites to share about the city of Ronda and its region, do not hesitate to leave a comment below. It could be useful to other travelers.

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About Benoit

Self-taught web developer and passionate photographer, I love travelling and hiking for this incredible feeling of freedom they bring me. Curious, I constantly need to learn new things, to take on new challenges and I couldn't live any other way. I share with you on this travel blog my experiences on the roads but also my thoughts to travel better while respecting our beautiful planet (which is unfortunately in a very bad shape).

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Malaga and ronda, spain travel blog.

Malaga was the perfect European destination for a 3-day weekend in February. The weather was perfect the entire time, the food was great, and the sights were gorgeous. Malaga lies on the Costa del Sol of the Mediterranean, about 100 kilometers east of the Strait of Gibraltar and about 130 km north of Africa. Malaga’s history spans about 2,800 years, making it one of the oldest cities in Europe and one of the oldest continuously inhabited cities in the world.

Accommodation

I stayed at Atarazanas Malaga Boutique Hotel in Malaga city center. The hotel itself wasn’t anything too special, but it was conveniently located. It is located near the Atarazanas Market. The Malaga Cathedral is a 7-minute walk, the Gibralfaro Castle is a 23-minute walk, the La Marina metro station is a 5-minute walk, and the Maria Zambrano train station is a 14-minute walk. The beach is also within-in walking distance so I opted to stay in the city-center vs. closer to the beach since I would be spending most of my time seeing the sites in the city and catching public transportation to Ronda.

Transportation

I flew from London Stansted to Malaga Airport (AGP). The most efficient option of getting into the city center is by getting a taxi from the taxi stand, which cost about 25 euros and took about 15 minutes. However, the train is also a quick option, taking only 12 minutes and costing 1.80 euros. Additionally, there is a bus that costs about 3 euros and takes about 20 minutes.

Atarazanas Market

Malaga’s central market is a restored historical building which had been closed for years. It hosts a daily market where locals go to get some fresh fruits, vegetables, and other local produce. The market is closed on Sundays.

Constitution Square

Teatro Cervantes

This theater is known to host amazing events almost every day of the week, ranging from classical dramas to flamenco performances. Get more info here .

Basilica of Santa Maria de la Victoria

This ornate Baroque church is a bit of a detour, but I enjoyed looking at the street art on the way.

El Pimpi Restaurant

This wine bar has a really good selection of wines and tapas and a lovely atmosphere. It is very crowded so it is recommended that you book in advance. However, even though we didn’t have a reservation, we were still seated relatively fast since it is so large. The prices are also reasonable.

Gibralfaro Castle

The climb up to Gibralfaro Castle was not as easy as it seemed initially as it was quite a ways up. However, the hillside gardens made for a lovely walk along the defensive walls. The castle offers great views of the city. Admission price is typically 2.20 euros, but luckily I went on a Sunday, which is free after 2PM. The castle is open daily from 9AM to 8PM.

The castle overlooks Malaga city and port and dates back to the 10th century. Inside the fortress itself you will find some buildings and courtyards. The ramparts have been well restored and you can walk all the way around them. At one point, you can get a good view down into the bullring. Some visitors linger here for a free view of the bullfight.

There are three ways to reach the entrance of the castle. One is from the Alcazaba: This follows the fortress’s outer wall and joins a cobbled path, which traces the hill’s contours and passes through the pine trees on the Coracha.

Another way is to climb the zig-zag steps which lead from the Plaza del General Torrijos at the east end of the Alameda Gardens to join the same cobbled path.

The third way is to take a taxi or the tourist bus which uses the road around the back of the hill.

Take a bottle of water, as there is no kiosk until the top.

Bullring and Bullfighting Museum

La Malagueta is the bullring in Malaga which has been around since 1876. It is located in the eastern district alongside the Paseo de Reding. Tickets are available at the UniCaja bank or at the box office at La Malagueta.

Malagueta Beach

This beach is the most popular and populous one in the city. It is just a short walk from the bullring.

After taking a stroll on the beach, I walked over to the huge waterfront complex and had a bite to eat at one of the many restaurants. Shops and cafes also line the pier.

Centre Pompidou Malaga

Parque de Malaga

Alcazaba of Malaga

This monumental Moorish citadel with its origins in the 11th century has a great strategic position with views over the city and over the coastline. It is probably the best preserved citadel in the whole of Spain. Admission is 3.50 euros or you can get a combined ticket with the castle that costs 5.50 euros.

Malaga Roman Theater

These remains of a Roman theatre were discovered in the 50’s. The Arabs used its blocks to build Alcazaba.

Merced Square

This is one of the largest public squares in Malaga’s city center, and is also known for containing Pablo Picasso’s childhood home.

Picasso Museum

Artist Pablo Ruiz Picasso was born in Malaga. The Museo Picasso Malaga opened in 2003 in the Buenavista Palace, and has 285 works donated by members of Picasso’s family. Admission to the museum costs 7 euros.

Cathedral of Malaga

The Cathedral of Malaga is a Roman Catholic Church and is in the Renaissance architectural tradition. Entrance to the cathedral costs 6 euros. You can get a great view of the cathedral from the AC Marriott Hotel.

AC Hotel Malaga Palacio

The rooftop bar at the AC Hotel Malaga Palicio, called Atico Bar & Restaurant, is one of the oldest in the city and a perfect place to enjoy the views from above. The rooftop is perched on the 15th floor giving it an incredible view over the city, harbor, and the Mediterranean Sea.

Both stylish indoor restaurant with panoramic windows and lovely open-air terrace, one of the best things about this rooftop is that its open all day long. You can have your lunch, cocktails, dinner, or dessert here. If you stay at the hotel, you can swim in the rooftop pool. Additionally, there’s occasional live music and flamenco shows here to keep you entertained. When I went, there was a DJ.

It costs 10 euros to go up to the rooftop, but the first drink is free. The biggest downfall to the bar is that they only had one bartender so it took a really long time to get the drinks. There is also limited seating on the main side of the bar, however there are couches on the opposite side, which are positioned under heaters.

Marina Square

Sala Premier

Sala Premier is a pub in downtown Malaga. Its decor is based on the world of cinema. Oscars-style red carpet, chairs with the names of famous directors, and stools with the faces of famous actors and actresses…any movie fan will be happy. This is the ideal establishment if you are looking for a fun place to have some drinks. It offers a great selection of beers and cocktails. Dried fruits and nuts are usually served with the drinks and there are board games available if you’re up for that.

Cocktail Bar

Sala Gold was a fun club to go for a few drinks and dancing. It got very crowded very fast though so it was hard to move around.

Larios Street

Malaga’s main shopping street is an awesome promenade to walk through at night with its lively atmosphere and bright lights.

Ronda is a village in the Spanish province of Malaga located about 105 km (65 mi) west of the city of Malaga. It is one of the town and villages that is included in the Sierra de las Nieves National Park. This small city is perched on the edge of Tajo Gorge, which is the main sight that made me want to take a day trip from Malaga.

Transportation to Ronda from Malaga is not as convenient and frequent as most other European day-trips. However, it was still very easy and well worth it. You can either take a bus or the train. I was going to take the train, but it actually ended up being a bus. I’m still not sure what happened, but I’m assuming that there was a problem with the regular train so they substituted it with a bus. ASLA bus company has buses running every day, 7 days a week. The cost for a round trip ticket is 32 USD and takes about 3 hours. The winding roads and rugged terrain make for a very scenic and enjoyable drive. The Malaga Bus Station is centrally located in the city and is right next to the train station.

The train is a faster way to travel versus the bus. The journey takes just under 2 hours and a round-trip ticket is roughly 29 USD. The earliest train from Malaga to Ronda leaves at 6:45 and the latest leaves at 18:20. Not every trip is direct, but there is usually one direct train per day. However, even though my phone said that there was a direct train to Ronda, when I arrived at the train station, they said there was no train that day and that I had to take the bus. It worked out because it was leaving at the time I was expecting and only took 1 hour 20 minutes. It departed at 9:40 AM and arrived in Ronda at 11:00 AM. The bus back to Malaga departed Ronda at 4:10 PM and arrived at 5:30 PM. The drive was super quick and had some pretty scenery. The downfall to this was that there is only one option to and from so I was worried about missing it. It left enough time to see everything, but I still felt rushed and couldn’t take my time just strolling around Ronda. If I were to do it over, I probably would have stayed the night in Ronda.

Church of Our Lady of Mercy

Parque Alameda del Tajo

The Alameda del Tajo Park dates from the early 19th century and looks out over the edge of the Tajo cornice.

Ronda Bullring

One of the oldest bullrings dates back to the 18th century and today it is also one of the most symbolic places of bullfighting. Unusual for its size and architectural style, this place is draws plenty of visitors, especially in early September during the Pedro Romero Fair when Goyesca Bullfight takes place.

A ticket costs 7 euros to enter or 8.50 euros if you wish to have an audioguide. It is open daily except on bullfighting days in September.

Restaurant Don Miguel

The reason that I chose this restaurant for lunch was the amazing view. However, the menu did not have a whole lot to choose from, and therefore I went with a salad to be safe. The prices are high, however the waiters were very friendly. I recommend this place for a nice place to have a drink, but it is not worth it for the food.

El Tajo Bridge

Built between 1751 and 1793, this symbolic bridge is the newest and largest of three bridges that span over the Guadalevin River in a deep gorge, Tajo de Ronda. It connects the old and modern area of the city.

The 18th-century Puente Nuevo bridge is one of the most important monuments in Ronda and one of my favorite sights in all of Spain! The bridge is nearly 100 meters high. The best view is from Camino de los Molinos, the road that runs along the bottom of the ravine.

Plaza del Socorro

The Plaza del Socorro is a central square in the new part of Ronda. It is surrounded by many restaurants, bars, and the church of the Virgen del Cocorro. Its main point of interest is a beautiful fountain with a statue of Hercules.

Santa Maria de la Encarnacion Church

This church is a rebuilt mosque.

Ronda City Hall

Located at the Duchess of Parcent Square, the current Ronda city hall was formerly a military quarter, built in 1734.

Arab Public Baths

Ronda’s Arab Baths, known in Spanish as “Banos Arabes” were a bit underwhelming, especially for the 3.50 euro entry fee. This doesn’t seem like a lot, but when the castle in Malaga was free, I would have rather paid for the castle than the baths.

The baths started around the 13th and 14th centuries and followed the Roman model of thermal buildings: cold water, warm water, and hot water bathrooms.

Jardines de Cuenca

The Jardines de Cuenca is a winding staircase from Puente Viejo to the top of El Mercadillo. After each handful of steps, you arrive at another walled terrace offering incredible views of the gorge and the 238 foot El Tajo bridge. The gardens are full of flower beds, palms, Cyprus, succulents, and evergreen trees.

Malaga and Ronda, Spain were the perfect combination for a 3-day weekend, especially in February to get away to somewhere warmer. If I were to have more time or go back, I would like to visit the Aqueduct of El Aguila, Balcony of Europe, King’s Walkway, Nerja Caves, and Colomares Castle.

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Built astride a huge gash in the mountains carved out by the Río Guadalevín, Ronda is a brawny town with a dramatic history littered with outlaws, bandits, guerrilla warriors and rebels. Its spectacular location atop El Tajo gorge and its status as the largest of Andalucía’s white towns have made it hugely popular with tourists – particularly notable when you consider its relatively modest size. Modern bullfighting was practically invented here in the late 18th century, and the town’s fame was spread further by its close association with American Europhiles Ernest Hemingway (a lover of bullfighting) and Orson Welles (whose ashes are buried in the town).

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Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Plaza de Toros

In existence for more than 200 years, this is one of Spain's oldest bullrings and the site of some of the most important events in bullfighting history. A…

This crazy, cluttered museum is the private collection of Juan Antonio Lara Jurado, who has been a collector since the age of 10. Now in his 80s, he still…

Casa del Rey Moro

Several landscaped terraces give access to La Mina, an Islamic stairway of nearly two hundred steps cut into the rock all the way down to the river at the…

Puente Nuevo

Straddling the dramatic gorge of the Río Guadalevín (Deep River) is Ronda's most recognisable sight, the towering Puente Nuevo, so named not because it's…

Plaza de España

The town's main square was made famous by Ernest Hemingway in For Whom the Bell Tolls. Chapter 10 tells how, early in the civil war, the 'fascists' of a…

Iglesia de Santa María La Mayor

The city’s original mosque metamorphosed into this elegant church. Just inside the entrance is an arch covered with Arabic inscriptions that was part of…

Museo Joaquín Peinado

Native Ronda artist Joaquín Peinado was an amigo and contemporary of Picasso's, a fact reflected in his work, with its strong abstract lines, flirtations…

Museo de Ronda

This somewhat faded city museum displays artefacts and information spanning several millennia of Andalucian history. Of even more interest to some will be…

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Explore one of the great cities of Spain with a day trip to Cordoba If you’ve got a day to spare, perhaps you’ve ticked off nearly everything on your list of things to do in Ronda and want to squeeze in another trip, a day trip to Cordoba is your answer! Take on one of

Unique Things to do in Ronda Spain: The Ronda Fair

The Ronda Fair: A week of culture, tradition and excitement you won’t want to miss  Even if you haven’t travelled to Spain before you have probably heard of the colourful events called ferias that happen on the streets of Spanish cities, towns and even villages! The Ronda Fair (la feria de Ronda) is no exception

Orange Tourism | An Inclusive Tourism Philosophy

A Creative and Inclusive Way to Travel The term “Orange tourism” comes under the umbrella of the “Orange Economy”, which refers to a cultural and creative economy. These two terms relate to a discussion of how to generate inclusive, alternative ways of working within the economic system, a philosophy which is of course applicable to

The Spanish Health System for Expats and Travellers

Spanish Health System Walkthrough Everything you need to know about the Spanish health system for expats and travellers! It’s always good to have an idea of how the health system works in a country you’ll be visiting or living in. With public and private healthcare, differing rules on insurance, and separate rules for EU and

Our Suggestions for the Best Restaurants Outside of Ronda

Are you looking for good restaurants? Get to know where to eat outside of Ronda! An important part of visiting a new destination is trying the local food. However, a meal out is more than just the quality of the food; it’s the occasion, the atmosphere, and the people. Here we’ve put together a list

Practical Things You Should Know Before You Travel to Ronda

Stress-free travel to Ronda! So, you have made the fabulous choice and decided to travel to Ronda, Spain, but you aren’t exactly sure how to get here or what to do when you arrive? Don’t worry, we have got your back! In this post, we have given you our best advice on the practical things

Slow Travel concept

Ronda Spain — Slow Ronda is a Spanish travel company that develops authentic and sustainable activities based on the Slow Tourism philosophy. In that way, we are proud to provide travellers with a wide range of tours and activities in Ronda, Andalusia. We help people to experience the local culture, history, and craftsmanship of this marvellous city high in the clouds.

Quick Links

+34 675 153 133 info@entrelenguas.  com

Central office Calle Espíritu Santo 9 29400, Ronda, Málaga