Ronda, Spain is a popular day trip from the cities of Seville or Málaga. This pristine white village perched atop a cliff is enchantingly memorable. With jaw-dropping views, history, and a charming allure that is hard to find in larger cities, Ronda is a small slice of paradise nestled in the heart of Andalusia.
If you’re wondering what to see in Ronda Spain in one day, this small town is chock-full of both natural scenery and interesting attractions that will keep you entertained and delighted.
This dreamy town is sure to leave a lasting impression, even if you only spend one day in Ronda. Whether you’re looking to explore history and culture or just soak in the beauty of the natural surroundings, there are so many unique things to do in Ronda, Spain.
This travel guide details what to see in Ronda, Spain in one day, plus includes a Ronda day trip itinerary, in depth look at the best attractions, and answers the most frequently asked questions about the Andalusian village.
Our personal experience visiting Ronda, Spain
Viewpoint of Ronda, Spain from Mirador de Ronda lookout.
When planning our trip to southern Spain, there was one place that looked so dreamy, so magical, so picture-perfect that nothing was going to stop us from visiting: Ronda, Spain.
Just writing the name of this gorgeous cliff-side village takes me back.
The village looks like something out of a storybook or perhaps a real life setting of a children’s movie. O.K., actually it is the setting of the children’s movie, Ferdinand. It’s a really cute movie. If you have kids, you should definitely watch it. But, I digress. Back to Ronda.
I strongly recommend spending at least one night in Ronda, if possible. If you are wondering what to see in Ronda, Spain in one day, you can hit the top attractions on a day trip, but you may want to book a hotel or apartment for the night, anyway.
You will want a full 24 hours in Ronda – if not more – to experience this small, yet alluring village to its full extent.
What to see in Ronda, Spain in one day
For a small village there are so many things to do in Ronda, Spain.
If visiting Ronda on a day trip from Seville or Malaga, you’ll want to get there as early as possible. Many people rent a car and include Ronda on an Andalusia road trip.
We arrived by train from Cordoba and decided to stay the night so we would have a full 24 hours in Ronda. But whether you get a hotel or not here are the top things to see in Ronda in one day.
With that said, let’s dive into the highlights you’ll see in Ronda, Spain in a day.
Admire the picturesque Puente Nuevo Ronda (New Bridge)
If you’re wondering what to see in Ronda, Spain in one day, the beautiful Puente Nuevo is the village’s top attraction and the primary tourist draw for the small village.
Undoubtedly, it is the top attraction in Ronda and with good reason. Puente Nuevo is beautiful. It is the type of bridge that you can stare at for hours. And we did, from the balcony of our rental apartment.
Spanning a picturesque gorge that divides the village of Ronda, Puente Nuevo is 120 meters (393 feet) long.
In the 1700s the village was growing faster than its older bridges could handle. To address the overcrowding issues on its smaller bridges, they decided to build a larger bridge across the high gorge, directly connecting the two sides of the town.
It took more than three decades to complete construction on the bridge, and sadly, dozens of people died in the process.
The outcome though was spectacular and has made Ronda one of the most popular tourist attractions in southern Spain.
Take in the atmosphere at Plaza de Toros de Ronda (Plaza of Bulls)
Inside the bullfighting ring in Ronda. (Photo credit: PatternPictures from Pixabay)
Ronda is the birthplace of bullfighting in Spain. While it is a controversial “sport” and one we personally find unethical and cruel, it is an important part of the town’s history.
Not far from Puente Nuevo, you will find Plaza de Toros, or Plaza of Bulls. At the heart of the plaza, is the still-active bullfighting ring, which you can tour along with the museum.
However, since we choose not to support bullfighting in any way, we skipped the tour. We have listed the price of admission below despite our personal stance, because not everyone shares our same views and we aim to be a resource for all travelers planning trips.
Even if you don’t visit the bullfighting ring or the museum, the exterior plaza is still worth visiting. It is a lively place with vendors selling crafts and musicians performing for the crowds.
There is a lovely garden area adjacent to the plaza that leads to the stunning outlook point called Mirador de Ronda.
Cost: Approximately $8.00 USD per person
Tour the Baños Árabes (Arabian Baths)
The Arabian Baths in Ronda are some of the best preserved hammam ruins in Spain. | Photo by Den Harrson from Unsplash
Once a thriving religious center for purification, the Arabian baths were a place where Moors, a group of Muslim settlers, would come to sweat out toxins and cleanse the body of impurities before entering the mosque.
Also known as the Hammam de Ronda, this fascinating historical site dates back to the 13th century.
The design of the baths is a testament to the exquisite architectural style of the Moors, featuring intricate arches, vaulted ceilings, and delicate tile work.
Located just outside the old city walls, the ruins of the ancient Arabian bath house are available to tour for a small fee. A portion of the baths are underground, which is the most popular portion of the attraction.
Cost: Approximately $4.50 adults and $2 for children
Check out Puente Viejo de Ronda (Old Bridge)
Puente Viejo or the “old bridge” in Ronda is smaller but still lovely.
Not far from the Arabian Baths, Puente Viejo (Old Bridge in English) was the original bridge connecting the two sides of Ronda.
The bridge was constructed in 1616 and is made of a sturdy stone arch. Puente Viejo is an excellent example of ancient Roman engineering and has stood the test of time for over two centuries, still serving as a pedestrian bridge to this day.
Visitors to the bridge can admire the breathtaking scenery of the gorge, and watch the waters of the Guadalevín River flow below.
The small bridge became impractical as the town outgrew it, which ultimately led to the construction of the unquestionably beautiful Puente Nuevo.
Puente Viejo in Ronda crosses the water closer to the bottom of the gorge, and it is still an operational bridge, although it currently serves as a pedestrian bridge only.
Cost: Free!
Climb down the Water Mine at Casa del Rey Moro
Walking back up the 231 steps of the water well in Ronda.
Casa del Rey Moro in Ronda was one of the highlights of our visit. If you only have one day in Ronda and you’re wondering what to see, don’t miss Casa del Rey Moro.
The unique and intriguing site, known as the House of the Moorish King in English, is perched on a cliff overlooking El Tajo Gorge.
The water well is the main attraction at Casa del Rey Moro. The somewhat strenuous walk down the 231 steps that spiral down the well takes you to the bottom of the gorge.
After walking down, and subsequently back up the 231 steps, you will have a new appreciation for people who at one time used the well to access water and bring it back to their homes.
While the walk is strenuous, if you are relatively in good shape you shouldn’t have a problem. I was able to climb down and back up while wearing a 4-year-old. Although, at times I was regretting that decision!
Casa del Rey Moro has been beautifully preserved and also features lush gardens, fountains, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Cost: $6 for adults | under 12 is free
Wander the streets of Old Town Ronda
Wandering the streets in Ronda is a relaxing and beautiful experience.
Wandering the streets of Old Town is a delightful way to experience the town’s charming and historic atmosphere during your Ronda day trip.
The town’s narrow streets are lined with whitewashed buildings adorned with wrought-iron balconies and colorful flowers.
The Old Town is home to numerous historic landmarks, including churches, museums, and palaces, and visitors can admire the stunning architecture and learn about the town’s rich cultural heritage.
The streets are also filled with quaint shops, cafes, and restaurants, where visitors can sample local delicacies and shop for souvenirs.
The Old Town is easily navigable on foot, and the winding streets offer numerous hidden gems and surprises for visitors to discover.
A stroll through the streets of Old Town Ronda is one of the most relaxing things to do in Ronda, Spain, and it is an excellent way to experience the vibrant and unique atmosphere of this beautiful Andalusian gem.
Cost: Free!
Hike El Tajo Gorge
A hike down to the bottom of Tajo de Ronda is a must if you want this beautiful view of Puente Nuevo. | Photo by William Fernandes from Unsplash
Puente Nuevo extends across El Tajo Gorge. There is a beautiful hike to the bottom of the gorge which gives you a picture-perfect view of Puente Nuevo and the town of Ronda behind it.
Since you have already started researching things to do in Ronda, Spain, it is likely that you have already seen a picture of the bridge taken from the small platform at the bottom of the gorge that people often hike to.
The short hike isn’t all that difficult, but keep in mind you do have to hike back up to the town, as well. The view is well worth it though!
For the best view, hike the gorge at sunrise. However, if visiting Ronda in a day, a sunset hike makes for a nice alternative.
Cost: Only a little bit of sweat and possibly sore muscles.
Tips for visiting Ronda, Spain
Beyond just knowing what to do in Ronda, Spain, there are a few tips and things to consider to make your Ronda trip more enjoyable.
Give yourself more than one day in Ronda, Spain
You may be seeking information on what to see in Ronda, Spain in one day, but I recommend giving yourself more time in this charmingly beautiful village.
If you try to cram all the activities above into a day trip to Ronda, you won’t have time to simply relax and enjoy the views, which are some of the best views in the entire country!
Sure, it is possible to see Ronda in a day, but it isn’t as enjoyable. Give yourself time to truly savor this Spain bucket list destination.
Chances are you won’t leave Ronda with the same nostalgic feeling of serenity that I have if you only visit Ronda on a day trip.
Spend at least one night
Seeing Puente Nuevo lit up at night is one of the best reasons to spend at least one night in Ronda, Spain.
Many people visit Ronda as a day trip from Seville, Malaga, or Cordoba. But if you spend at least one night in Ronda, you will get to see the village after the other tourists leave. Plus, there is something so magical about Puente Nuevo at night when it is illuminated.
After the sunset, I sat on our balcony for hours, which had incredible views of the bridge. (Keep reading for our lodging recommendations if you are wondering where to stay in Ronda, Spain.) I had a glass of wine and just relaxed. Life stood still.
It was a fantastic break in the middle of a jam-packed 2-week itinerary that took us around Spain, Portugal and Morocco.
Enjoying a glass of wine on our apartment balcony overlooking Puente Nuevo.
Ronda is in the heart of Spain’s exquisite wine country known as Serrania de Ronda. So make sure you enjoy a glass of local wine during your visit. The region is known for delicious reds. Tempranillo is my personal favorite.
If you have more time, you can even take a winery tour to sample the wines grown in the region and learn about the wine making process.
Book the apartment we stayed in… seriously just do it.
We always like to give lodging recommendations if we recommend staying the night in a destination, however we tend to offer multiple suggestions or recommend a general area to stay in.
However, in Ronda, we are recommending ONE place to stay. The apartment where we stayed literally offers the best views in the entire village.
If I could live in this apartment, I would. This 2-story, 4 bedroom apartment isn’t only luxurious, it is HUGE. It can sleep a large family or an extended family on a multigenerational family vacation.
Even if traveling as a coupleor a small family, it would be worth splurging just for the priceless views.
During our one night in Ronda, we decided to hit up the small corner store. We bought some meat, cheese, wine and other snack items and had dinner at the apartment simply because we didn’t want to leave the balcony even for a short dinner. In fact, I didn’t ever want to leave!
If we have the privilege of returning to Ronda someday, we would book this exact same apartment in a heartbeat.
If you plan to spend extra time in Ronda City, Spain, you’ll have more time to take in the sites and enjoy a few of the other notable attractions at a slower pace. Here are a few other things to add to your Ronda itinerary if you have extra time.
Alameda del Tajo
Alameda del Tajo is a beautiful park in Ronda, Spain, and is considered to be one of the town’s most popular and scenic spots.
The park stretches over a vast area and offers visitors breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside, including the Sierra de Grazalema mountains, the El Tajo gorge, and the Guadalevín River.
Known for its lush greenery, including rows of pine and oak trees, Alameda del Tajo is an excellent place to take a leisurely stroll, enjoy a picnic, or simply relax and take in the stunning views.
The park is also home to several fountains, statues, and monuments, including the impressive Monument to the Spanish Infantry Regiment, which is dedicated to the soldiers who fought in the Spanish-American War.
Explore the Mondragon Palace
The Mondragon Palace is an impressive historic building located in the heart of Ronda’s Old Town. The palace dates back to the 14th century and has served as a residence for various rulers throughout its history.
Today, it houses the Ronda Museum, which showcases the town’s rich cultural heritage and history.
Visitors to the Mondragon Palace can explore its stunning gardens, courtyards, and galleries, which are adorned with beautiful fountains, mosaics, and murals. The palace’s interior features ornate architecture, including intricately carved wooden ceilings and stunning tilework.
The museum’s exhibits offer a fascinating insight into the town’s Roman and Moorish past, as well as its more recent history.
Old walls and city gates
Exploring the gates and the old walls of Ronda is another great activity during one day in Ronda.
Ronda’s old walls and city gates are an important part of the town’s rich history and cultural heritage. The walls date back to the 13th century and were originally built to protect the town from invading armies.
Today, visitors to Ronda can still see sections of the old walls and gates, which have been carefully preserved and restored over the centuries.
The most notable of these gates is the Puerta de Almocabar, which served as the main entrance to the town during the medieval period. The gate features a beautiful horseshoe-shaped arch and is flanked by two impressive towers.
Other gates that can be seen in Ronda include the Puerta de Carlos V, which was built in the 16th century, and the Puerta de los Molinos, which provided access to the town’s mills.
Jardines de Cuenca
Jardines de Cuenca as seen from across El Tajo Gorge
The Jardines de Cuenca is a tranquil oasis situated on the edge of El Tajo gorge. The garden is named after the town of Cuenca, which donated several trees to the garden when it was first established.
The Jardines de Cuenca features a variety of plants and flowers, including jasmine, bougainvillea, and roses and also has several fountains, ponds, and benches, making it an excellent spot for a peaceful stroll or a picnic.
Is Ronda worth visiting?
Ronda Spain is definitely worth visiting. This picturesque town in Andalusia is beautiful and charming, with narrow streets lined with white buildings perched atop cliffs offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The town is also home to several impressive landmarks, including the Puente Viejo, Casa del Rey Moro, and the Arabian Baths. Overall, Ronda is a unique and fascinating destination that offers history, Spanish culture, natural beauty, and delicious food and wine.
Is one day in Ronda Spain enough?
While it is possible to see many of Ronda’s highlights in one day, it is recommended to spend at least a couple of days in the town to fully appreciate all that it has to offer.
A day trip to Ronda from nearby cities such as Seville, Malaga, or Granada is a popular option, but visitors may feel rushed and miss out on some of the town’s hidden gems and charm. To truly experience the relaxing atmosphere of Ronda, it is best to spend at least one night exploring the town at a slower pace.
This will allow visitors to feel more immersed in the local culture, sample the delicious food and wine, and take in the stunning landscapes at their leisure. However, if one has only one day to spend in Ronda, it is still possible to see the town’s main attractions and get a taste of its unique charm and beauty.
How many days do you need in Ronda Spain?
Two to three days will give visitors enough time to visit popular attractions in Ronda such as the Puente Nuevo, the Casa del Rey Moro, and the Arab Baths, as well as discover some of the town’s charming corners and undiscovered streets.
Additionally, spending at least two days in Ronda will allow visitors to take a day trip to nearby attractions such as the Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park or the picturesque white villages of Andalusia.
Where to stay in Ronda Spain?
While we already recommended an incredible apartment in Ronda, Spain above, if the apartment is booked, out of your budget, or you simply prefer hotels vs apartments, here are a few additional alternatives for where to stay in Ronda, Spain. Hotel Montelirio Parador de Ronda Hotel Maestranza
How to make the most of one day in Ronda, Spain
If you cannot spend a night but still want to visit Ronda as a day trip, it is important to make the most of your time. You’ll want to get an early start to your day. Begin your sightseeing tour at Plaza de Toros before heading to the main attraction, Puente Nuevo.
From there, cross the bridge and head to Casa del Rey Moro, the Arabian Baths, and Puente Viejo.
Finally head back toward the Plaza de Toros, grab a bite to eat, and if time allows, hike to the Tajo Gorge viewpoint of the new bridge. This is a self-guided walking tour of Ronda, so no need for transportation. You’ll be tired at the end of your day trip, but you will have seen the best of Ronda, Spain in one day.
Like it? Pin this guide to what to see in Ronda Spain in one day to save for later!
Have a comment or question about what to see in Ronda, Spain in one day? We’d love to hear from you and always try to respond to our readers, when possible. Leave your thoughts or questions about this Ronda travel guide in the comments below.
Did you know…
When you make a purchase or book hotels, tours, or other travel services, through our links, we receive a small commission, at no extra cost to you. We only EVER recommend service providers, websites, or products we personally use when booking our own travels. Your support enables us to keep producing helpful travel content. Thank you!
This guide to what to see in Ronda Spain in one day was first written in May 2020 but was most recently updated in May 2023 for accuracy and current information.
