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Best 10 Things to see and do in Ronda in one day trip
Ronda sits in the heart of the Serrania de Ronda, about 100 kms from the city of Malaga (1 hour and 30 minutes driving) and with a population of approximately 35,000 inhabitants. Ronda has become Andalusia’s third most visited town. Ronda is the
With its world-famous New Bridge and bullring, as well as the hidden corners of the gorge on top of which it perches, Ronda will not disappoint you.
Ronda (Acinipo) was first declared a city by Julius Caesar in the first century AD. when the Moorish troops under the command of Tarik-ibn-Zeyad invaded the region in 8C, one of the first routes they followed was the old Roman one, linking Gibraltar with the Roman settlement of Acinipo.
They renamed the town to Izna-Rand-Onda – Ronda. The ruins of Acinipo actually sit 20 Km outside of modern-day Ronda.
In CostaExcursions we organize guided private walking tours in Ronda, please read more about our day trip to Ronda from Malaga or Marbella.
Here is our Top 10 things to see and do in Ronda, with an itinerary to visit Ronda in 1 day.
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.
– Orson Welles
Ronda tours from Malaga
Ronda is one of the most popular tours for a day trip from Malaga. You can book a private tour of Ronda with us
These are the top things to see in Ronda
Puente Nuevo (new bridge) – Ronda Bridge
Offering unforgettable views over the El Tajo gorge. The Puente Nuevo – new bridge – was actually completed in 1793 and took forty two years to build (and many workers killed…). It was buildt by the same architect as the famous bull ring.
One of southern Spain’s most famous attractions, Ronda’s Puente Nuevo, or New Bridge, spans the 328-feet-deep El Tajo gorge, linking El Mercadillo (The Little Market), the newer part of town, with La Ciudad (The Town), the old Moorish quarter. The Puente Nuevo was built because is the shorte distance between the old town and the new town.
The original bridge had one single arch, that bridge colapsed 6 years after it was built, the new bridge has 3 arches.
One of Spain’s most famous Parador hotels sits adjacent to the bridge and is a well worth a visit. The views of the El Tajo gorge from this hotel are spectacular.
Be careful, the viewpoint is not well secured, so watch your steps and your camera! Every year, hundreds of cameras are found at the bottom of the ravine.
You can then go down to the second viewpoint which will allows you to see the bridge + the waterfall and the river that flows underneath. A second opportunity to take nice pictures!
Ronda has a rich history dating back to Roman times.
Bullring (plaza de toros)
If you’re interested in Spain’s deep-rooted bullfighting tradition, then a visit to Ronda’s notable Plaza de Toros is a must. Built in the late 18th century, it’s considered one of the oldest and most historically significant bullrings in Spain.
The circular arena, made entirely of stone, is a sight to behold. Its architectural grandeur, with double-tiered arcades and Tuscan columns, speaks of a time when bullfighting was a major cultural event.
Even if you’re not a fan of the sport, you’ll appreciate the architecture and museum housed within the complex. The Bullfighting Museum (Museo Taurino) displays an impressive collection of bullfighting memorabilia, including costumes, weapons, and artwork.
For a truly immersive experience, consider attending a bullfight – though it’s not for the faint-hearted. These events usually occur in September during the Pedro Romero Fair.
The Real Maestranza bullring is one of the oldest and most picturesque in Spain. It was built in 1785 by the architect (Jose Martin Aldehuela – the same architect who built the Puente Nuevo). The ring can hold up to 5000 spectators.
Bullring Opening Times
The bullring is open all year round, with varying hours depending on the season. Typically, summer hours are from 10 AM to 8 PM, while winter hours are from 10 AM to 6 PM. Check the official website for exact timings and ticket prices.
So, step into the Plaza de Toros for a glimpse of Spain’s rich cultural history and an experience you won’t forget.
January to February 10am till 6 pm
March 10am till 7 pm
April to September 10am till 8 pm
October 10am till 7 pm
November to December 10am till 6pm
Ronda’s bullring is now used just once a year for the exclusive annual bullfight of the town’s September Feria (local festivity)
The price of entry is 8.00€ per person and 8.50€ with an audio-guide.
All information for the visit is available in a on Ronda Plaza de Toros official website
Coño Balcony (el balcón del coño) and Alameda del Tajo
Make your way to the Coño Balcony (el balcón del coño) next. This viewpoint is one of the most spectacular in Ronda, offering panoramic views of the El Tajo gorge and the surrounding landscape. Don’t forget your camera – you’ll want to capture the breathtaking scenes from this vantage point.
Just a stone’s throw from the Coño Balcony, you’ll find the Alameda del Tajo. This park is a haven of tranquillity with its lush greenery, ornate fountains, and shaded pathways. It’s the perfect spot for a restful stroll while you take in the city’s natural beauty.
Note: As you explore, keep an eye out for the park’s unique feature – a series of balconies perilously perched on the cliff edge. These provide even more stunning views over the El Tajo gorge. Exercise caution near the edge, as there are no barriers.
The Balcón del Coño viewpoint is another that should not be missed.
La Casa del Rey Moro (Moorish Palace)
It sits atop El Tajo gorge on the old Moorish side of town and, the palace is now a museum, you can walk down the steep stone staircase to the Water Mineall the way to the bottom of El Tajo. Legend has it that this was the residence of the Moorish King, Almonated, who is said to have drank wine from the skulls of his enemies.
Although more recent evidence seems to indicate that the King never actually lived in the building. Today’s structure was completed in the 18th century and completely remodeled in 1920 by the Duchess of Parcent.
The gardens were designed by the same French architect who designed the Maria Luisa Park in Seville, Jean Claude Forestier.
You can also stroll through La Casa del Rey Moro sumptuous gardens. Designed by a French architect, Jean-Claude Forestier (the same architect who built the Maria Luisa Park in Seville), these terraced gardens with canals and fountains are simply magnificent. And the view too!
Jardines de Cuenca – Cuenca Gardens
The Cuenca Gardens (jardines de Cuenca) are located on the ledges of the Tajo and distributed across a series of terraces. The views are fantastic and give you a unique and differing perspective (and less crowded) of the city and of course the New Bridge. Totally worth it if you are up for a little walk.
Old Town (or La Ciudad)
As you tread the cobblestone streets of Old Town, or La Ciudad as it’s locally known, you’re in for a historical treat. This ancient part of Ronda is a maze of narrow, winding streets, filled with charming old houses and stunning views at every turn.
The town is divided into two parts by the Tajo Gorge, and you’ll find La Ciudad on the southern side. Here, you can immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of the Andalusian region.
There is much to explore, from the stunning architecture to the traditional Spanish restaurants. You’ll find a wealth of museums and historical sites here, as well as plenty of opportunities for shopping.
What to See in La Ciudad
- Plaza Duquesa de Parcent: This beautiful square is home to Ronda’s town hall and two churches, as well as a variety of restaurants and cafes.
- The Arabic Walls and Gates: These ancient fortifications have stood the test of time, providing a fascinating insight into Ronda’s past.
- Palacio de Mondragon: Formerly the residence of a Moorish king, this palace is now a museum showcasing the history of Ronda.
As you wander through La Ciudad, you’ll find yourself stepping back in time, experiencing the history of this beautiful city in a truly immersive way.
Landmarks
- The City Walls and Gates: La Ciudad is encircled by ancient walls and impressive gates, which were once the city’s main line of defense. Don’t miss the Almocabar Gate, which guards the southern entrance to the old city, and the Gate of Carlos V, a beautiful Renaissance-style addition.
- The Palace of the Marquises of Salvatierra: This 18th-century palace is an architectural gem, adorned with impressive masonry work and Roman statues.
- Casa del Gigante: Named for the giant statues found inside, this 15th-century house is a significant example of Moorish architecture.
The new bridge is not only the Ronda’s most iconic attraction, it also serves as a connection between the old town and the new town, each with its own style and atmosphere. La Ciudad – or The Old Town, is the original Moorish part and weaves around one central Street, Calle Armiñan, south of Puente Nuevo.
Palacio de Mondragón
This palace is a blend of Moorish and Christian styles. Although only a small part of the original Moorish palace remains, as it was renovated in 1491, you can still see features such as arches, carved and tiled decorations, courtyards, and a water garden at the back of the palace which is a smaller version of the one at the Alhambra.
The museum is open Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. (6 p.m. in winter); Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is 3.50€ for individuals; 2.75€ for groups of 10 or more, seniors, or students under 26; children under 14 enter free of charge. The museum is located at Plaza Mondragón, s/n, 29400 Ronda; the telephone number is +34 952 87 08 18.
Baños Arabes (Arabic Baths)
When Going back to Puente Nuevo, you can make a detour and head to Ronda’s Arab Baths, located in San Miguel district. Despite the fact they were in continual use for some 600 years, Ronda’s 10th and 11th century Arabic baths are among the best-preserved in Spain (along with those in Granada).
You can still see the boiler used to heat the water. Take a look at the ceiling and you will see the star-shaped vents directly inspired by the Alhambra of Granada and its baths.
Duchess of Parcent Square
Continue on to Duchess of Parcent Square (Plaza Duquesa de Parcent in spanish), considered as one of the most beautiful square in the city. It’s surrounded by several monuments including the city hall but the most remarkable is undoubtedly the St. Mary Major Church, which was the original mosk during the muslim domination.
The construction of this church took almost 200 years and presents a mixture of Renaissance and Gothic style. Do not hesitate to go inside to admire its Gothic style nave and columns, its 2 floors Renaissance style choir and the beautiful baroque elements.
Museo Lara
The Museum Lara has a very diverse collection, going from the Spanish Inquisition to film and pottery, and including many other types of historical objects. It would be a great place to visit with your family, since there are some gruesome torture weapons, swords, and weird pieces of witchcraft among the other items. The visit should take about an hour, and the museum is located in a beautiful traditional townhouse with a central patio.
Opening times: 11am – 8pm (7pm winter).
Entrance fee: 4€ standard; 2€ for students, pensioners and groups of 10 or more.
Address: Calle Armiñán, 29400 Ronda; Telephone: +34 952 87 12 63; Museolara.org.
Churches
Iglesia de Santa María La Mayor
This church in Andalucia was built on top of a mosque, which was built on Visigoth foundations, which were built on top of the remains of a Roman temple from 45BC.
The building that is standing today is not from the ancient past, as it was rebuilt after an earthquake in the late 16th century. However, it is still a beautiful place to go and escape the heat of the day. The building has a mix of Gothic and Renaissance styles. The hours are Monday-Saturday 10am-8pm, and it is closed on Sundays. The address is Plaza Duquesa de Parcent, 0, 29400 Ronda.
Iglesia del Espiritu Santo
Construction work on this church started not long after the town was conquered by the Catholic Kings in 1485. At first glance, it may seem quite plain and simple, but this is because its architects had to take into account the possibility that it might be used for military purposes, as it is attached to the city walls.
If you take a closer look, there’s a lot to enjoy both inside and outside the building. The main entrance is surrounded by a Mudejar-style alfiz, which is a type of decorative panel that was commonly used on the tops of mosque doorways. The ceilings are also very tall and have vaults.
This hidden gem is located in the far southernmost corner of the old town. You can also check out the impressive Almocabar gate, another dramatic relic from Ronda’s Moorish past.
Opening times: Monday-Saturday 10am-2pm; Sundays closed.
Address: Calle Espíritu Santo, 15, 29400 Ronda.
These are the top things to do in Ronda
Restaurants & Places to Eat in Ronda
The locals of Ronda love to eat, drink and socialise as much as any of their Andalusian neighbours, meaning there is a huge choice of places to take refreshment in between exploring El Tajo or learning about the bulls. A delicious regional speciality is Rabo de Toro (Ox Tail) .
There are many restaurants to enjoy the Puente Nuevo and the gorge views, one of them is Casa Don Miguel, which is popular with both locals and visitors alike. Another recommended restaurant is Macias, very close to the bull ring arena. For tapas we recommend Restaurante Las Maravillas, located on the main shopping street (Calle la Bola)
When hunger strikes after a day of exploration in Ronda, you’re in the right place. The city is dotted with a variety of restaurants, each offering a unique culinary experience. Here are some that you must try:
Tragata
Tragata, a modern tapas bar, offers a chic dining experience. Their inventive menu and contemporary interior design make it a must-visit.
Restaurante Almocabar
Located near the Almocabar gate, this restaurant offers a cozy atmosphere and delicious Spanish cuisine. Their grilled meats are particularly popular.
Bardal
In November 2017, Bardal was awarded its first Michelin star, which simply confirmed what everyone in foodie circles already knew: that Ronda had become one of the best places to eat in southern Spain. Benito Gomez, the Catalan chef behind long-time LVC favourite Tragata, is at the helm of this award-winning restaurant, which opened its doors in July 2016 and has been impressing critics ever since.
There are two tasting menus to pick from: a smaller and a bigger one. Dishes with substantial components like veal head, venison and black pudding, and dainty takes on local stews and soups like gazpachuelo, join together imaginative flair and technical ability while still being committed to Rondeña roots. Paired with selections from a wine cellar of almost 200 bottles, it’s a marvelous dining experience from beginning to end.
Address: Calle José Aparicio 1, 29400 Ronda; Tel. 951 48 98 28; Restaurantebardal.com.
Restaurante Azahar
Azahar is one of the best places to get a fine dining experience in town. It is the Andalucian outpost for Eboca Restaurants, which is a large network of high-class restaurants that are located in Barcelona, Ibiza, and the Dominican Republic. The restaurant is located in Hotel Catalonia Reina Victoria. You would expect such a place to have great food because of the price tag associated with it. The food consists of beautiful dishes that are put together with high-end ingredients.
Some of the delicious meat dishes available are bull’s tail, kid (a young goat) that has been slow-cooked in an oven to crispy perfection and served with a cherry jus and vegetable tempura, and a suckling pig that is almost as enticing as the stunning views from the restaurant.
Address: Calle Jerez 25, Ronda 29400; Tel. 952 87 12 40; Restauranteazahar.com.
Restaurante Bodega San Francisco
No matter what your culinary plans are, you can’t visit Andalucia for more than a few days without going to a traditional, unpretentious restaurant. While there are definitely places to eat that are less refined but still serve great food, Bodega San Francisco definitely meets this criteria.
The restaurant has all the necessary components, from the beams and polished terracotta floors to the legs of ham hanging above the lovely gleaming wooden bar. The food is not luxurious, but whether it’s green peppers ‘al padron’ (fried, salted and blistered to within an inch of their greasy lives) to fried fish, spicy prawns, or snails when they’re in season, it’s a quintessentially Andalucian experience.
The terrace area in the evening is one of the most inviting spots in town for a drink and a light bite. The square is dotted with noisy, bird-filled plane trees.
Address: Plaza Ruedo Alameda 32, 29400 Ronda; Tel. 952 87 81 62; Bodegasanfrancisco.com.
Abades Ronda Restaurante
Abades Ronda is a special restaurant with excellent dishes. The foie with local goat’s cheese and caramelised apple is superb, and the turbot on a bed of baby vegetables is very good. The sirloin of Iberico pork is outstanding and would be worth going to the gorge for.
The gorge is right there, like an extra dining companion, opening out on to views that stretch away across the sun-dappled fields and olive groves to the misty Serrania de Ronda in the distance. Mesmerising.
Address: Paseo Blas Infante, 1, 29400 Ronda; Tel. 952 87 13 67; Abadesronda.com.
Tragata
Tragata has been one of Ronda’s most popular restaurants since it opened many years ago. This is hardly surprising given that owner/chef Benito Gomez (the man behind recently Michelin-starred restaurant, Bardal) previously worked in Ferran Adria’s La Alqueria at Hacienda Benazuza, as well as the kitchens of Jean Luc Figueras and Dani Garcia.
The food at Tragata is a unique blend of Asian and Andalusian cuisine. You can find squid sandwiches, Russian salad, eggs ‘a la flamenca’, prawn tempura, beef tataki, noodles, and Thai-style seabass. This is a refreshing change from the typical fare found in southern Spain.
Address: Calle Nueva 4, 29400 Ronda; Tel. 952 87 72 09; Tragata.com.
Entre Vinos
The cons: Entre Vinos is on a pretty boring residential street far north of the old town. The pros, however, more than make up for its slightly uninspiring location: it’s a charming little neighbourhood wine bar with a great atmosphere and an excellent selection of local Ronda wines.
Some other things about the food are that it has all the classic Spanish dishes like jamon, morcilla, presa and garlicky mushrooms, as well as some great cheeses and pates. Our favorite dish is the squid cooked in its own ink and served with noodles.
Address: Calle Pozo 2, 29400 Ronda; Tel. 658 58 29 76; Facebook page.
Restaurante Almocabar
This charming little neighbourhood tapas bar and restaurant is located at the southernmost end of Ronda’s historic centre and is great for all seasons. On chilly winter nights, hearty plates of oven-cooked lamb and partridge stew are served up in the cosy interior.
In the summertime, the terrace is the perfect place to sit and enjoy a refreshing gazpacho or salad while watching the swallows fly around the Puerta de Almocabar gate.
Address: Plaza Ruedo Alameda, 5, 29400 Ronda; Tel. 952 87 59 77;
Taberna Tropicana
There’s more to Tropicana than what you see at first. From the outside, it looks like a modern tapas joint on the corner of a Spanish block of flats, far from any tourist areas. But once you start tasting the amazing dishes coming out of the kitchen, you realize that this is one of the best tapas bars in Ronda.
What are the highlights on the menu? The meat options are particularly noteworthy. The crisped oxtail tapas is a great way to start, and the house speciality gourmet burgers are substantial and delicious. The barbecued entrecote and T-bone steaks are both excellent choices – they’re beautifully prepared with just the right amount of charring.
Oh, and they serve a very mean gin and tonic, too.
Address: Avenida Malaga & Calle Acinipo, s/n, 29400 Ronda; Tel. 952 87 89 85; Tabernatropicana.com.
Shopping
The main shopping street known as “Calle La Bola” (the real street name is Carrera Espinel) is where you will find losts of shops and tapas bars, from clothing stores to souvenirs shops, you sure will find the perfect gift to bring back home.
It is important to note that the we don´t spell Ronda as Rhonda as many people think…
Want to spend a day in Ronda from Malaga or Marbella? in Costa Excursions we offer a day trip to Ronda where you will enjoy the best of what this town has to offer.
Shop for Unique Souvenirs in Ronda’s Local Markets
One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local culture of Ronda is by exploring its bustling markets. These offer a unique shopping experience, where you’ll come across a variety of traditional Spanish products. Here’s what you can expect:
- Handmade Crafts: Local artisans masterfully craft a plethora of items like ceramics, leather goods, and textile items. These make for great, authentic souvenirs to take back home.
- Local Produce: At Ronda’s markets, you can find fresh, locally-grown fruits and vegetables. The quality and taste of these products are unparalleled.
- Andalusian Delicacies: Don’t miss out on the chance to buy some of the region’s famous specialties such as olive oil, wines, and cheeses.
Some notable markets are the Mercadillo de Ronda, held on Sundays, and the Mercado de Abastos, a daily market. Always remember that bargaining is part of the shopping experience in Spain, so don’t hesitate to negotiate prices for the best deal.
Ronda Wine
Ronda isn’t all about history and culture, it is also home to some fantastic wineries. So after visiting all the above fantastic places, why don´t relax with a glass of wine and tapas at any of the wonderful restaurants in Ronda
To help you to enjoy the amazing wines and vineyards of Ronda, here are five tips from the Costa Excursions team.
1. Do your research:
This is our list of the most recommended wineries in Ronda
2. Start with a visit the Ronda Wine Information Centre
To start your trip right, we recommend a visit to this wine museum which is in one of the most beautiful houses in Ronda’s Old Town.
3. Limit yourself to 2 bodegas in a day
The vineyards and wineries in Ronda are stunning. Visiting a few different ones is a great way to ee some different places and of course try the different wines. However, don’t try to pack in too many in one dayas it will get very tiring and you won´t appreciate it as much.
4. Enjoy some traditional food
Ronda has great food and restuarants, the food in Ronda is rich, hearty, with big portions and strong flavours. Try Rabo de Toro (Oxtail), Jabalu (wild boar) and partridge stew (perdiz).
5. Take an organised tour
It is almost impossible to get around the vineyards in Ronda without transportation, but you do not want to drink and drive, so how can you do it? With an organised tour of course. At Costa Excursions we will pick you up from your hotel or apartment in Malaga or the Coast, take you up to the best bodegas and give you a chance to visit Ronda as well.
Unearth Ronda’s Ancient Roman Remains
If you’re a history enthusiast, Ronda definitely won’t disappoint you. The city is home to some impressive Roman remains, a testament to its age-old history. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore these ancient ruins which give an insight into the city’s fascinating past.
Acinipo Roman Theatre
Just 20 km from Ronda’s city center, you’ll find the remnants of the Roman city Acinipo, known locally as Ronda la Vieja (Old Ronda). The highlight of this archaeological site is the well-preserved Roman theatre, which dates back to the 1st century AD. The theatre could accommodate around 2,000 spectators, showcasing the importance of Acinipo in Roman times.
Roman Bridge
The Roman Bridge, also known as the Puente San Miguel, is another must-see relic in Ronda. Crossing the Guadalevin River, this structure was part of the important Roman road linking Acinipo with other cities in the region.
While these ancient remains are not located directly within the city, they are easily accessible and make for a great day trip from Ronda. Remember to bring your camera – the combination of ancient ruins and panoramic views is truly picture-perfect.
Learn about the Legend of Ronda’s Bandit Hideouts
If you’re interested in stories of adventure and intrigue, make sure to uncover the legends of Ronda’s bandit hideouts. The city’s rocky terrain and numerous caves were the perfect hideouts for bandits and outlaws throughout history. These bandits, known as bandoleros, have become a well-known part of Ronda’s cultural heritage.
Bandolero Museum
Take a trip to the Bandolero Museum to get a deep dive into the lives of these outlaws. The museum features exhibitions of weapons, clothing, and other objects associated with the bandits, as well as stories about their most notable exploits. You can also learn about the romanticized image of the bandit-as-hero in popular culture.
Exploring the Bandit Hideouts
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can explore some of the caves and other natural formations that served as hideouts for the bandits. One of the most famous is The Cave of the Gypsy, named after the tale of a gypsy who used the cave to hide from the authorities after committing a crime. Remember, always take care when exploring these terrain and ensure you’re properly prepared.
Engaging with this part of Ronda’s history is a thrilling way to enrich your visit. Whether you’re exploring the museum or the bandit hideouts themselves, you’re sure to come away with a deeper appreciation of this fascinating aspect of Ronda’s past.
Help me Rhonda
Ok, ok, we know by now that Help me Rhonda is a Beach Boys song, but we are sure “Rh
onda” will help you have a great time. Come and enjoy it with us.
“Well, Rhonda you look so fine (look so fine)
And I know it wouldn’t take much time (just 6 hours)
For you to help me Rhonda
Help me get her out of my heart”
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