Ronda

Written by Celine Fournier, David Garcia, Javier Garcia
30/08/2025
Stunning aerial view of Ronda, Spain showcasing the iconic Puente Nuevo spanning the dramatic gorge.
Pedro Luis Domínguez Ruiz, Pexels

Ronda, a historic whitewashed town, captivates with its dramatic clifftop setting above the El Tajo gorge, spanned by the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge. It is a place where one can experience deep cultural heritage amidst breathtaking landscapes.

Visitors will find opportunities to socialize in the new town's bustling tapas bars and restaurants. Authentic connections can also be made through local community experiences, such as language exchanges or shared meals with families.

Top 5 Things to do in Ronda

Ronda offers opportunities for exploring iconic historical landmarks, enjoying panoramic natural landscapes, and delving into rich local traditions.

1. Explore Puente Nuevo and El Tajo Gorge

Walking across the Puente Nuevo, or 'New Bridge,' provides incredible views into the 120-meter-deep El Tajo gorge. Visiting the interpretation center inside the bridge's central arch offers insights into its history and construction. Descending to the base of the gorge for a different perspective of the bridge rising dramatically above is highly recommended. Several viewpoints, such as Mirador de Ronda and Mirador de María Auxiliadora, also offer stunning panoramas. Exploring the Jardines de Cuenca behind the bridge provides additional vantage points.

Cost: Accessing the Puente Nuevo and its surrounding viewpoints is free. The Centro de Interpretación del Puente Nuevo, located in the chamber above the central arch, costs approximately €2.50 per person. A walk down into the gorge is free.

Transport: The Puente Nuevo is centrally located and easily accessible on foot from anywhere in Ronda's main areas. The walk down into the gorge paths starts near the bridge and is also walkable, though it involves steep descents and ascents.

2. Visit the Plaza de Toros de Ronda and its Museum

Stepping into the historic Plaza de Toros, one of Spain's oldest and most significant bullrings, offers a deep dive into the country's bullfighting legacy. The attached museum showcases the history, traditions, and famous figures associated with bullfighting, including its connections to Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles. While bullfighting today is a sensitive topic, understanding its historical and cultural significance in Ronda is a unique experience.

Cost: Entry to the Plaza de Toros and its museum, including an audio guide, costs around €11.00 per person.

Transport: The bullring is located in the newer part of Ronda, just a short walk from the Puente Nuevo and the main commercial streets.

3. Wander Through La Ciudad (Old Town)

Exploring La Ciudad, Ronda's Old Town, is like stepping back in time. Its labyrinthine, narrow cobbled streets are lined with whitewashed houses, ancient churches, and charming squares. Key sites include the Plaza Duquesa de Parcent, the Church of Santa María la Mayor, and the Palacio de Mondragón, which houses a municipal museum and offers beautiful Mudejar-Renaissance architecture and garden views. The Old Town is also home to delightful coffee shops and traditional restaurants.

Cost: Wandering through the Old Town is free. Entry to the Palacio de Mondragón costs approximately €4.00 per person. Entry to the Church of Santa María la Mayor may have a small fee.

Transport: The Old Town is located directly across the Puente Nuevo from the newer part of Ronda and is entirely walkable.

4. Discover the Baños Arabes (Arab Baths)

Visiting the remarkably well-preserved Arab Baths provides a glimpse into Ronda's Moorish past. These 13th-century baths are among the most intact in Spain and Portugal, showcasing the structure of the different temperature rooms and the social importance of bathing during that era. It offers a peaceful and informative experience.

Cost: Entry to the Arab Baths is approximately €4.00 per person.

Transport: The Arab Baths are located at the edge of the Old Town, a walkable distance from the Puente Nuevo, though slightly downhill. It might take around 15-20 minutes to walk from the main bridge.

5. Experience Local Wine Tasting

The region surrounding Ronda is known for its excellent wines, benefiting from the crisp mountain air. Exploring a local winery allows for a tasting experience, learning about the regional wine production, and enjoying the scenic vineyards. Many vineyards are situated in El Tajo, offering stunning views of mountains and valleys.

Cost: Costs for wine tours and tastings vary significantly. A self-guided tasting might be available at some bodegas, but tours typically range from €20 to €50 or more per person, depending on the number of wines and included food pairings. Some day tours from Seville or Malaga that include Ronda also offer wine-tasting options.

Transport: Most wineries are located outside Ronda and require a taxi, a rental car, or joining an organized tour. Taxi costs would depend on the specific winery's distance but could range from €15-€30 each way. Public transport options to specific vineyards are generally limited.

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