The Best Things to Do in Ronda, Andalusia (2026 Travel Guide)

Ronda is one of the most striking cities in Andalusia, best known for its dramatic El Tajo Gorge, historic Old Town, and the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge. Located in southern Spain, it is a popular stop on Andalusia itineraries and can be explored comfortably in one day.

Whether you are visiting Ronda on a day trip or staying longer, the city offers a compact mix of viewpoints, historic landmarks, cultural sites, and local food experiences. In this guide, you’ll find the best things to do in Ronda in 2026, including must-see attractions, practical travel tips, and ideas to help you plan your visit efficiently..

Top 5 Must-See Attractions in Ronda (First-Time Visitors)

If you’re visiting Ronda for the first time, these five attractions cover the city’s most iconic sights, history, and viewpoints — and can all be explored within one day.

1. Puente Nuevo – Ronda’s Iconic Gorge Bridge The Puente Nuevo is Ronda’s most famous landmark, spanning the El Tajo Gorge and connecting the old and new towns. It offers dramatic views and is the city’s most photographed spot.

2. Mirador de Ronda – Best Viewpoints Over El Tajo Gorge Ronda’s viewpoints provide panoramic views of the gorge, countryside, and the Puente Nuevo — ideal for photos, especially at sunrise and sunset.

3. Plaza de Toros de Ronda – Historic Bullring and Bullfighting Museum One of the oldest bullrings in Spain, the Plaza de Toros showcases Ronda’s role in bullfighting history and houses a museum explaining the tradition.

4. Arab Baths of Ronda – Best-Preserved Arab Baths in Andalusia Dating back to the 13th century, the Arab Baths are among the best preserved in Spain and offer insight into Ronda’s Moorish past.

5. Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor – Ronda’s Main Church and Former Mosque Site Located in the historic centre, this church blends Gothic, Renaissance, and Moorish elements and stands on the site of Ronda’s former main mosque.

Ronda at a Glance

Category	Key Information
Location	Andalusia, southern Spain
Best known for	Puente Nuevo & El Tajo Gorge
Ideal visit length	1 day (2 days for a relaxed visit)
Best time to visit	Spring and autumn
Suitable for families	Yes (with supervision near viewpoints)

Best Things to See in Ronda Old Town (Historic Centre)

One of the best travel tips for Andalusia tourism is to visit Ronda, a destination that has been attracting travellers for many years. Although it is a relatively small town, Ronda welcomes visitors from all over the world. The reason is clear: the Ronda attractions capture the beauty of this part of southern Spain in a truly unique setting.

In the Old Town of Ronda, the dramatic El Tajo Gorge, carved by the Guadalevín River, is the main highlight. Historic houses rise directly above the gorge, creating a striking contrast between architecture and nature. Several bridges add to this distinctive atmosphere, including the famous Puente Nuevo, as well as Puente San Miguel and Puente Viejo, all of which are key landmarks when deciding what to see in Ronda.

In recent years, a dedicated walking path has been opened that allows visitors to descend into the Ronda Gorge itself. From here, you can walk along the bottom of El Tajo and experience the town from a completely different perspective, making it one of the most memorable things to do in Ronda.

• El Tajo Gorge

• Bridges

• Viewpoints

• City Gate

• Churches

• Bullring (Plaza de Toros)

Several viewpoints in Ronda offer stunning views over the town, the gorge, the river, the valley, the surrounding mountains, and the wider countryside. The Mirador de Ronda is just one example. Another popular Ronda attraction is the Puerta de Almocábar, the historic city gate that once marked the entrance to the old town.

A relaxed walk through the narrow streets of the Old Town of Ronda is also one of the top local travel tips. Small shops, restaurants, and cafés line the streets, and there is always something to admire along the way. Photography opportunities can be found throughout the old town, not just at the famous bridge.

In the very heart of the old town, which sits on a rocky plateau, you will also find the Plaza de Toros, Ronda’s historic bullring. Nearby, the Iglesia de Santa María la Mayor is another highlight and can easily be reached on foot, making it a natural stop when exploring what to see in Ronda.

Guided Tours, Walking Routes & Activities in Ronda

Historic Buildings and Cultural Heritage Sites in Ronda

Ronda has a long and fascinating history shaped by several civilisations. The earliest settlers, the Celts, called the settlement Arunda, followed by Phoenician communities in the surrounding area. The foundations of today’s city were later laid by the Romans, before Ronda was successively ruled by the Suebi, the Moors, and eventually the Christians. This long sequence of power shifts has left a lasting mark on the town’s architecture and layout.

The three bridges of Ronda, which span the dramatic El Tajo Gorge, offer a clear glimpse into this layered past. Each bridge reflects a different historical period and highlights why Ronda is considered one of the most historically rich destinations near the Costa del Sol.

• Puente Romano (also known as Puente Árabe)

  The foundations of this bridge date back to Roman times, while the upper structure was rebuilt during the Moorish period in Andalusia.

• Puente Viejo Literally meaning “Old Bridge,” Puente Viejo was completed in 1616 and reflects the architectural style of the early modern period.

• Puente Nuevo The “New Bridge,” finished in 1793, is Ronda’s most famous landmark and one of the most iconic Ronda attractions spanning the El Tajo Gorge.

However, these are far from the only Ronda attractions that offer insight into the town’s rich past.

The Casa del Rey Moro dates back to the 14th century and is considered an important cultural heritage site in Spain. While the identity of its original builder and the reasons behind its construction are surrounded by legend, one thing is certain: the gardens, fountains, and dramatic cliffside setting create a truly special experience. It is often regarded as a lesser-known Ronda hidden gem.

The Palacio de Mondragón was built in the Mudéjar style and once served as the residence of the kings of the Taifa of Ronda. Today, it houses the Municipal Museum of Ronda, making it an important stop for anyone interested in Ronda sightseeing and local history.

The Baños Árabes are the former Moorish baths, now preserved as an archaeological site that can be visited. Nearby, the Casa del Gigante, open to the public since 2004, dates back to the 13th century and offers valuable insight into daily life during the Moorish period.

At the Casa Museo Don Bosco, visitors can step into more recent history and explore life in the early 20th century. Alongside its historical interiors, the museum also offers beautiful views over the surrounding landscape, making it a rewarding addition to any list of things to do in Ronda.

Where to Stay in Ronda: Best Areas & Accommodation Tips

Museums in Ronda Worth Visiting

For a relatively small town with around 35,000 residents, Ronda offers a surprisingly diverse range of museums. They add cultural depth to the many things to do in Ronda and are a great way to complement classic Ronda sightseeing in 2026. Below, you’ll find an overview of the most interesting museums to include when exploring what to see in Ronda.

• Museo Lara (curiosities and torture museum)

• VinoRonda

• Centro Integral del Vino de Ronda

• Museo Unicaja Joaquín Peinado (art museum)

• Museo del Carruaje (carriages and horse-drawn vehicles)

• Museo Taurino de la Real Maestranza de Caballería (bullfighting museum)

• Centro de Interpretación de la Cultura Cofrade

Additional Attractions and Hidden Gems in Ronda

Ronda is a place where nature, culture, and history come together naturally. All three shape the town’s sights and atmosphere, often at the same time. One of the most rewarding things to do in Ronda is to walk down into the El Tajo Gorge, where you can experience the town from a completely different angle and appreciate its dramatic setting.

If you’re looking for a quieter moment, the Jardines de Cuenca are a lovely spot to pause and enjoy views of the gorge. At the same time, modern street art such as the Okuda and Kato murals near the bus station shows a more contemporary side of Ronda sightseeing. Historic features like the Murallas de Levante, part of the old city walls, and the Castillo del Laurel add further depth to the list of Ronda attractions.

Those interested in religious history will find several lesser-known but worthwhile sites, including the Iglesia del Espíritu Santo, the Santuario de María Auxiliadora, and the Convento de Clarisas de Santa Isabel de los Ángeles, all easy to combine with a walk through the old town.

Although the historic Arab Baths are no longer in use, a modern hammam called Aguas de Ronda sits nearby. A popular local tip is to visit after a long walk on one of the surrounding hiking trails, especially in spring or autumn.

The countryside around Ronda is also ideal for hiking. The surrounding mountains, small villages, and famous white villages (Pueblos Blancos) make exploring the area especially rewarding. In several directions, the gorge continues beyond the town, creating a landscape that feels wild, varied, and uniquely Andalusian.

How to Get to Ronda: Cheap Flights, Trains, Buses & Car Travel

Ronda does not have its own airport. If you are travelling from the Costa del Sol, the most convenient option is Málaga Airport. Further inland in Andalusia, Jerez de la Frontera is the closest alternative, while Seville also offers good flight connections.

For getting to Ronda from any of these airports, hiring a car is recommended, as it offers the most flexibility for exploring the region.

Food and Drink in Ronda: Local Restaurants & Andalusian Cuisine

Food and drink are an essential part of visiting Ronda, offering a mix of traditional Andalusian dishes, local specialities, and modern cuisine. Tapas bars and restaurants in Ronda’s Old Town make it easy to sample regional food between sightseeing stops, while local wines from the Serranía de Ronda add a distinctive culinary element to any visit.

Below are some well-known restaurants in Ronda, ranging from traditional Andalusian cooking to fine dining and Middle Eastern–inspired cuisine.

• Restaurante Las Tablas

• Bardal

• Al-zahrà Arabian Food

Day Trips and Excursion Ideas Around Ronda & Costa del Sol

Ronda is an excellent base for exploring nearby natural parks, white villages, and outdoor attractions. Many of the most popular day trips from Ronda can be reached within one to two hours by car and add variety to a longer stay.

• Sierra de las Nieves – Mountain Landscapes and Nature Trails

Located north of Ronda, Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park offers hiking routes, mountain scenery, and traditional villages. It is ideal for visitors interested in outdoor activities and less touristy Andalusian landscapes.

• Setenil de las Bodegas  – White Village with Cave Houses

Famous for its houses built directly into rock overhangs, Setenil de las Bodegas is one of Andalusia’s most distinctive pueblos blancos and an easy half-day trip from Ronda.

• Caminito del Rey  – Famous Cliffside Walkway

The Caminito del Rey is a dramatic walking route along narrow paths fixed to steep canyon walls. It is one of the most popular outdoor excursions in the region and requires advance ticket booking.

Ronda Travel FAQ: Attractions, Sightseeing & Planning Tips

How many days do you need to visit Ronda?

Many visitors come to Ronda on a day trip, often from Málaga, and one day is enough to see the main highlights such as Puente Nuevo, the Old Town, and the most famous viewpoints.However, spending two days in Ronda allows you to explore the historic centre at a slower pace, enjoy local restaurants, and discover lesser-known corners that day-trippers often miss. If you have time, staying longer also makes it easier to explore the surrounding Serranía de Ronda.

Is Ronda really worth visiting?

Absolutely. Ronda is considered one of the most beautiful destinations in Andalusia, and for good reason. The dramatic El Tajo Gorge, the iconic Puente Nuevo, and the well-preserved historic old town create a setting unlike anywhere else in southern Spain.While some areas can feel busy in peak season, Ronda offers a unique mix of history, culture, and scenery, making it well worth a visit — whether as a day trip or a short city break.

Where is the best place to park in Ronda?

Ronda has several public car parks around the town. To avoid driving through narrow streets in the historic centre, it’s best to park near the old town edge, close to landmarks such as the former castle area and the Convento de las Clarisas.If you’re staying overnight, choosing accommodation with private parking can save time and stress, especially during busy travel periods.

Are Ronda’s attractions suitable for visiting with children?

Yes, many things to do in Ronda are suitable for families with children. The bridges, viewpoints, and open squares offer plenty of space to explore, and the dramatic scenery often keeps children engaged.That said, parts of the old town include steep streets and stairs, which can make using a pushchair difficult. Ronda is generally best suited to families with older children, but it can still be enjoyed with younger ones if planned carefully.

When is the best time to visit Ronda?

The best time to visit Ronda is from April to June and September to October. During these months, temperatures are pleasant and ideal for sightseeing, walking tours, and enjoying viewpoints.July and August can be very hot, especially during the middle of the day, while winter is quieter and more relaxed, though temperatures can be cooler and occasional rain is possible.