Welcome to Ronda, a stunning city perched high on the cliffs of Andalusia. You’re probably wondering what to do in Ronda for a day. Well, buckle up. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the city’s labyrinthine alleys and past all the top attractions. And there are plenty.
So, are you ready for an unforgettable day in Ronda? Let’s go!
What to do in Ronda for a day - top attractions in the old town
Let’s uncover the Ciudad Vieja or old town of Ronda, filled with historical treasures.
As soon as you enter the Puerta de Almocábar, it feels like you’re transported back in time. The whole town is so charming, it almost feels like you’re on a film set. Cosy squares, beautiful architecture, and a lot of churches are mixed in with absolutely breathtaking landscapes.
There are numerous sights to see, located close to each other, giving you the freedom to visit these attractions in any order you choose.
Puerta de Almocábar
Start your day at Puerta de Almocábar, located at the foot of Ronda’s old town. This ancient gate served as an entrance to the fortified city in medieval times.
It’s a picturesque gate with a horseshoe arch and imposing towers. Dating back to the Moorish era, it stands proudly as a link between the past and the present, inviting all to explore the Casco Viejo or old town.
Behind the entrance, you can have a look at the Laurel Castle as well.
Iglesia del Espíritu Santo
Step into Iglesia del Espíritu Santo, a 16th-century church with a simple facade in late-Gothic style. The exterior looks a bit like a fortification, which is very common for that period.
Take a look inside to admire the altarpiece and gorgeous ceiling. As you stroll through the church, take in the serene atmosphere of this old building.
Murallas de la Cíjara
When you follow the route down to the right, you’ll pass the Walls of Cíjara or the Murallas de la Cíjara. These walls are part of the Levante Walls, the most important line of defence against intruders.
These eastern walls consist of a double defence line. You have the Cíjara walls, which are still in excellent condition. Beyond them lies an older defence line that is in a more deteriorated state.
As you continue along the path, you’ll notice remnants of an ancient defence line to your right.
The Levante walls housed the suburbs, where also the famous Arabic baths were housed.
Walking around these old fortifications, you can enjoy the amazing views of the cityscape and the surrounding meadows.
Baños Arabes
Very close by, inside the walls, you find the Arab Baths of Ronda. Also known as the “Baños Arabes” in Spanish, are a pretty cool spot. They were inspired by the Romans and used steam for cleaning instead of hot water. Next to the baths, there was a Mosque that showed how important spiritual purity was. These baths were all about getting clean, relaxing, and getting ready for the Mosque.
Puente Viejo
When you continue your journey, you’ll see the old bridge or Puente Viejo. This incredible feat of 16th-century engineering, stands firmly on the remains of what could have been an even older bridge. This sturdy structure used to be the only way to get from Mercadillo to La Ciudad until the Puente Nuevo was completed centuries later.
Behind the Puente Viejo, you can find a lower, even older bridge, the Puente Romano. This is the third bridge that crosses the deep chasm of the Gaudalevín River.
Arco de Felipe V
Check out the Arco de Felipe V at the Puente Viejo, an old gate that used to be the only way into the city from this side of town. It played a big role in defending the city.
After the newly built bridge collapsed in 1741, the city urgently upgraded this entrance to handle the heavy traffic. In 1742, under Spain’s first Bourbon king, Philip V, the original Arab Bridge Gate was transformed and expanded. You can see the evidence of these changes in the inscription on the gate. This iconic city landmark has a cool stone arch featuring the royal crest of the Bourbon family on the outside.
Jardines de Cuenca
Sitting on the edge of the breathtaking Tajo, the Jardines De Cuenca pay tribute to Cuenca – Ronda’s sister city. These two cities are alike in their geographical features, which prompted their mayors to sign a twinning agreement in 1975, strengthening their bond even more.
Mirador de Cuenca
The gardens offer breathtaking vistas of the chasm, the Guadalevín River, and the majestic Puente Nuevo. Beyond the stunning landscapes, the gardens themselves captivate visitors with their rose gardens and other intriguing features.
This remarkable viewpoint offers multiple levels, each providing a mesmerizing panorama of El Tajo and Puente Nuevo.
Plaza de España
The Plaza de España in Ronda is a bustling urban hub and one of the city’s most iconic locations. It anchors the southern end of Calle Virgen de la Paz and connects to other significant streets like Calle Nueva and Calle Rosario.
This square serves as a gateway to the ancient district of Ronda, offering passage via the Puente Nuevo or New Bridge. The Parador Nacional de Turismo, overlooking the stunning Tajo de Ronda, is a notable structure in the square.
The Plaza de España enjoys literary fame thanks to its depiction in Ernest Hemingway’s work, For Whom the Bell Tolls. In the book, we’re introduced to a harrowing scene set during the early stages of the civil war, where ‘fascists’ from a small village are herded into the town hall, assaulted, and forced to run a punishing gauntlet manned by townsfolk before being mercilessly cast off a cliff. This grim episode draws inspiration from real events that transpired right here in Plaza de España. The building that once served as the town hall now functions as Ronda’s charming parador.
Puente Nuevo
The New Bridge is part of the heart and soul of Ronda. Standing at a height of 98 meters, this architectural marvel is built from stones extracted from the depths of the Tajo’s gorge. Its purpose was to connect the modern market quarter to the old city district, promoting Ronda’s urban development.
It’s this famous tall bridge that you’ll find when you look up photos from the city of Ronda. If you want to see it from this perspective, you’ll have to venture out of the city walls and turn right when you leave the Puerta de Almocábar. There is a street that leads you to the viewpoint. You can also access it by car, but it’s not advisable with a large motorhome.
Plaza de Toros de Ronda
When you follow the short Calle de José Aparicio, from Plaza de España, you walk straight into the famous bullring.
The Plaza de Toros in Ronda is an incredible testament to Spain’s bull fighting history. It’s where the unique Rondeño style of bullfighting was born and the proud home of the famous Real Maestranza De Caballería De Ronda.
Built entirely of stone in the flourishing 18th century, this bullring witnessed the golden era of the legendary bullfighter, Pedro Romero, leaving his everlasting legacy on its historic walls.
Monumento al Toro de lidia
This statue pays homage to the emblematic figure of the bull. It stands in Plaza del Teniente Arce, near Plaza de Toros and the Pasaje Ernest Hemingway. Created by artist Nacho Martín, the striking piece was unveiled in 2005. This tribute to the Fighting Bull represents the festival, culture, and history of the town.
Mirador de Ronda
Located in the peaceful surroundings of Paseo Blas Infante Park, right past the iconic bullring, you’ll find the Mirador de Ronda. This hidden gem of a viewpoint gives you another amazing spot to take in the city’s surroundings.
The Mirador de Ronda may seem simple, just a humble pavilion with a floating balcony, but it’s this spot that gives you an unmatched view of the Andalusian landscape.
Plaza del Socorro
In the heart of Ronda’s modern district, you’ll find the lively Plaza del Socorro. Dominating the plaza is the Church of Socorro, an architectural gem that lends a touch of historical allure. The square is surrounded by a bunch of awesome bars and eateries, giving off a super cosy vibe that really makes this plaza iconic.
Mirador de Aldehuela
José Martín de Aldehuela is the mastermind behind the iconic Puente Nuevo. This mirador is named after him. The viewpoint of Aldehuela offers gorgeous views of the bridge, the gorge Tajo de Ronda and the Cuenca Gardens. It’s perfect to take in the scenery, and snap a memorable photo of your visit.
Placa a los Viajeros Románticos
The Placa a los Viajeros Románticos in Ronda serves as a tribute to all the romantic travelers who fell in love with the charm of the city during the 19th and 20th centuries and immortalized their experiences through their writings.
This large tile plaque honors renowned figures such as Orson Welles, Ernest Hemingway, Madonna, and Rainer Maria Rilke, who lived in Ronda and drew inspiration from its beauty. For artists who chose to make Ronda their home, this ceramic mural was painted on the wall as a special characteristic.
The Placa de los Viajeros Románticos is a must-see spot for visitors in Ronda, where capturing a photo with the plaque is a testament to having truly experienced the romantic allure of the city.
You find it in the street behind the Puente Nuevo.
Casa Museo Don Bosco
The Casa Museo Don Bosco is like a timeless treasure. Built around 1850 and given a touch of modernist charm in the early 20th century, this mansion reflects the vibrant culture and fascinating history of Ronda.
When you step inside, it’s like stepping back in time, a century ago. You’ll find stunning local artwork from that era – from intricate tapestries and beautiful ceramic tiles to hand-carved wooden furniture. It’s a nostalgic journey that’s definitely worth experiencing.
Mirador de María Auxiliadora
A bit further down the street from the Museo Don Bosco you’ll find another stunning mirador. Situated to the right of the Sanctuary of María Auxiliadora, on the highest point of Ronda, this viewpoint offers a one-of-a-kind perspective. From this spot, you can take in the majestic Tajo de Ronda from a whole new angle.
Surrounding this viewpoint are some of the town’s most iconic structures, adding to the beauty of the scene.
Palacio de Mondragon
Located close by the mirador, you’ll find Mondragon Palace. It’s a magnificent structure that has been witness to centuries of history. Originally built by the Moors in the 14th century, this palace has served as a residence for royalty, including King Ferdinand and Queen Isabella, after the town’s conquest in 1485.
Today, it stands as a museum showcasing the heritage of Ronda. The palace’s Moorish courtyards, fountains, and arches stand as silent witnesses of centuries.
Plaza Duquesa de Parcent
If you keep on walking, you’ll land on the Plaza Duquesa de Parcent. Here, you stand on the very grounds where the ancient Roman Forum once bustled. The Plaza Duquesa de Parcent now thrives as the heart of Ronda’s old town.
On this central square you’ll find beautiful historical buildings, like the majestic Santa Maria la Mayor church, commanding attention. The Town Hall, with its storied past as a military prison, and the multitude of churches and convents peppered throughout the square add to its charm.
Santuario de María Auxiliadora
Another iconic structure at the mirador de Auxiliadora is the Santuario de María Auxiliadora. This is a modern church with an impressive dome and beautiful marble floors. In 1955, this structure was built on the remains of the ancient Roman Laurel Castle, breathing new life into its historic grounds.
Other places of interest in Ronda
There is just so much to see and visit in Ronda, that we didn’t manage to do it all in one day. We love to take our time to take it all in. Our dog Jack, was already overstimulated at this point, and he needed to get some rest. So, we decided to have a drink and a bite to eat and then head back out of town.
But if you have the time and energy, these are some more points attractions in Ronda to explore.
Plaza del Gigante & Casa del Gigante
The Plaza del Gigante is a cute square, home to the Casa del Gigante or House of the Giant. This house is a remarkable testament to Nasrid architecture and one of the best-preserved examples outside of Granada. It’s an historic gem that embodies timeless charm. Look for the statue of Vincent Espinel at the entrance.
This Moorish architectural masterpiece, built over a century before Ronda’s conquest in 1485, stands as a timeless monument. The Casa del Gigante now serves as a charming museum, showcasing Ronda’s intriguing 5,000-year history through a captivating 10-minute film on the top floor. The ground floor features an intimate courtyard with serene ponds and the main hall housing the Gigante statue.
Carrera Espinel or Calle La Bola
Carrera Espinel, or as the locals call it, Calle La Bola, is the vibrant centre of Ronda’s commercial scene. Stretching from the historic town, this pedestrian street brings “El Mercadillo,” the bustling market district, to life.
Stretching approximately a kilometre in length, Calle Espinel pulses with the legacy of Vincent Espinel. This renowned clergyman, writer, and musician, a luminary of Spain’s Golden Age, was born in Ronda in 1550.
The street’s name “Calle La Bola” has an interesting backstory. Locals would gather here to play a unique ball game. The objective was to launch a 3 kg iron ball down the path, covering a set distance in the fewest throws. Another charming story suggests the street got its name when children rolled a giant snowball down the slope after a heavy snowfall.
Palacio de Salvatierra
After the conquest of Ronda in 1485, the Catholic Monarchs assigned this building to Don Vasco Martín de Salvatierra. In the late 18th Century, significant modifications were made, giving it its current aesthetic.
The meticulously crafted stone-masonry of the primary facade features a baroque entryway adorned with colonial symbolism. A pediment crowns the facade, displaying the nobleman’s coat of arms. The building’s interior boasts a captivating patio with a colonnade of segmented Tuscan arches, and an overhead gallery with rectangular windows and small balconies.
Things to do in Ronda: map
Where to stay in Ronda
Choosing the right place to stay in Ronda can make your visit even more memorable. You’ll find a plethora of charming lodging options across the city, from cosy B&Bs to luxurious resorts.
But my personal favourite has to be the boutique hotels that dot Ronda’s historic landscape. They offer a perfect blend of personal services and distinctive design, steeped in local culture, making you feel at home while immersing you in the city’s rich heritage. Check out this comprehensive list of boutique hotels in Ronda to find a place that suits your taste and budget.
Fun hikes and tours to do in and around Ronda
If you have more time, have a look at these cool day trips to do from Ronda.
Experience Ronda’s surroundings with exciting tours and hikes, immersing yourself in nature and culture. Explore the breathtaking landscapes of El Tajo Gorge on a loop hike for awe-inspiring views. Delight your taste buds on a wine tour through the region’s rich viticultural history and vibrant flavours. Uncover ancient tales in the depths of Pileta Cave’s paintings and discover the untamed beauty of Grazalema natural park, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Hike de El Tajo Gorge loop
For those looking for a fun and adventurous hike, the El Tajo Gorge loop offers something truly special. This 12-mile route takes you on a journey through some of Ronda’s most stunning landscapes, allowing you to take in the magnificent Puente Nuevo from multiple angles. Along the way, you’ll also pass by several miradors, including the Mirador de Cuenca and Mirador de Aldehuela. If you’re feeling ambitious, you can even extend your hike to include the nearby town of Benaojan.
Start your adventurous trek from the historic Plaza del Toros bullring, heading towards the northern outskirts of Ronda. Along the trail, you’ll stumble upon the tranquil valleys that cradle the magnificent gorge, offering spectacular views.
Via ferrata Tajo del Ronda
Embark on an exciting climbing adventure in the vertical realms of Tajo de Ronda. Along the way, take in the breathtaking panoramas of Ronda. This route is great for beginners, offering minimal difficulty. With a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn fascinating insights about the area and have a thrilling and informative tour.
Wine tour in Ronda
No trip to Andalusia is complete without indulging in some delicious local wine. Ronda, with its ideal climate and fertile soils, is home to some exceptional wineries. Take a tour of one of the many excellent Bodegas in the region, such as Bodega Joaquin Fernandez or Bodega Garcia Hidalgo to learn about the history and production process of Ronda’s famous wines. And of course, no tour is complete without a wine tasting session!
Take a day trip to the Pileta Cave
The Pileta Cave, or Cueva de la Pileta, has a fascinating history connected to the Bullón family. It all began when José Bullón Lobato, a farmer leasing the land, stumbled upon the cave in 1905. Intrigued by the swarm of bats emerging from a nearby crevice, José decided to explore further. His initial goal was to find bat guano, a valuable fertilizer that could boost his land’s productivity. However, his exploration led him to a vast cavern filled with remarkable artifacts, including bones, earthenware, and unique wall paintings depicting unfamiliar animals and symbols.
Picnic or hike in the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park
For nature lovers, a trip to the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park is a must. This stunning park is home to breathtaking scenery, diverse flora and fauna, and numerous hiking trails for all levels. Pack a picnic and spend a day surrounded by the beauty of the Andalusian countryside, or challenge yourself with a hike through one of the park’s many routes.
Tucked away in the heart of the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park is the charming town of Grazalema. It’s the perfect starting point for your wilderness adventures. Just park your vehicle at the town square and pass by the city’s information centre, as some parts of the park require a permit for exploration.
Trails where you need a permit for include: El Pinsapar, El Torreon, Garganta Verde, and Llano de Ravel. You have the option of obtaining this either online or in person at the visitor centres in El Bosque or Grazalema. Keep in mind to secure a permit in time. The permit application period lasts from October through May. From June to September, due to forest fire risks, these particular hikes are only permissible for groups.
Address: EL BOSQUE visitor center, Calle Federico García Lorca, Plaza de Toros, 1, 11670
Combining your visit to Ronda with a trip around Andalusia
Ronda fits beautifully into an Andalusian road trip. Nestled in the mountainous region of Malaga, it’s about a 1.5-hour journey from the coastal city of Malaga and about 2 hours from Sevilla, making it an ideal day trip from both. Along the way, you can savor the picturesque landscapes of this enchanting region.
The road trip also grants you the opportunity to discover other nearby gems of Andalusia, like the vibrant city of Sevilla, known for its grand cathedral and Alcazar palace, and the sun-soaked city of Malaga, famed for its golden beaches and historical landmarks. If luxury is on your mind, don’t shy away from Marbella, a playground for the rich and famous.
For those looking for an authentic Andalusian experience, Cadiz, with its ancient ruins and stunning Atlantic beaches, is a must-visit. All these awesome destinations come together to create an immersive story of Andalusia’s diverse culture, history, and landscapes in a fun road trip itinerary.
Conclusion: how to spend one day in Ronda without getting bored for a minute
There’s no shortage of fascinating things to do in Ronda, even if you’re just planning to spend one day there. With its rich history, stunning landscapes, and an array of boutique accommodations to choose from, Ronda provides an unforgettable experience.
So see for yourself why this unique city is so popular and a must-visit spot on any Andalusian trip.
