Allison Wanderland

Ronda might just be one of the most magical spots in all of Andalusia. Suspended between dramatic cliffs and rich in history, this charming hilltop town stole my heart in just one day. If you’re visiting southern Spain, especially anywhere near Málaga, Seville, or Granada, Ronda is a must-see—and it’s totally doable as a day trip.

How to Get to Ronda, Spain

If you’re planning a trip through Andalusia, adding a day trip to Ronda is an absolute must. This iconic white village is perched high above a deep gorge, with dramatic views and rich history that make it one of the most picturesque towns in southern Spain.

You can get to Ronda by train, bus, or car, but after experiencing it firsthand, I can confidently say that car or bus is the most convenient and scenic option. We personally booked a guided tour through Viator that included both Ronda and the stunning village of Setenil de las Bodegas, known for its homes built directly into the cliffs. It was incredibly affordable and made the logistics completely stress-free. (I’ll link the exact tour we took here.)

Getting to Ronda from Málaga

If you’re staying in Málaga, you’re only about 1 hour and 45 minutes away from Ronda by car. The route is beautiful, especially as you climb into the mountains. Renting a car gives you the freedom to stop at viewpoints or hidden gems along the way.

• By Bus: Direct buses run regularly from the Málaga bus station to Ronda, with a travel time of about 2 to 2.5 hours. This is a popular and budget-friendly option. Check companies like Avanza Bus for schedules.
• By Train: There are daily trains from Málaga María Zambrano station to Ronda, though most routes require a transfer (often at Antequera or Bobadilla). Expect the journey to take around 2.5 hours, and enjoy the scenic countryside as you go.

Getting to Ronda from Seville

Seville is another major city that makes a great jumping-off point for Ronda. The drive takes around 2 to 2.5 hours, and you’ll pass through beautiful Andalusian landscapes.

• By Train: Trains from Seville Santa Justa station to Ronda are typically direct and take about 2.5 hours. This is one of the most comfortable ways to travel if you prefer to relax and watch the scenery.
• By Bus: Buses also connect Seville and Ronda, taking about 2.5 to 3 hours depending on the route and stops. Companies like Damas and Los Amarillos operate along this route.
• By Car: Renting a car gives you the option to stop in charming towns like Zahara de la Sierra or Setenil de las Bodegas—both of which are worth a visit if you have the time.

Best Option: Book a Guided Tour

If you want a seamless, stress-free way to explore Ronda and surrounding villages, consider a guided day trip. We booked a Viator excursion that included round-trip transportation, a stop in Setenil de las Bodegas, and plenty of time to explore Ronda. They picked us up in Malaga (there are other pick up spots along the coast). It was inexpensive and no frills but it was cheap and allowed us to relax and take in the views without worrying about driving or logistics. This is the exact tour we used here.

What to See in Ronda

Once we arrived in Ronda, it felt like stepping into a postcard. There’s something cinematic about the way this town is perched over the El Tajo gorge, and it’s no surprise Ernest Hemingway and Orson Welles were obsessed with it.

Puente Nuevo

The star of the show is, of course, the Puente Nuevo—the iconic stone bridge that connects the old and new towns, towering over the canyon below. We made a lunch reservation at Arabal Restaurante, which offers unreal views of the bridge. Pro tip: book in advance if you want that dreamy view with your wine and tapas.

After lunch, we took a walk down to the Puente Nuevo Viewpoint. You can either hike all the way down or stop partway for a photo (honestly, the mid-point views are still stunning). Check local signs for entry prices—sometimes there’s a small fee if you go all the way into the lower viewpoint area.

Plaza de María Auxiliadora

One of my favorite little corners was the Plaza de María Auxiliadora, a cozy square where we caught some live music and just soaked in the vibe. If you’re looking for that quintessential Ronda charm, this is it.

More Places to See in Ronda

Here are a few more spots we wandered through:

• Mirador de los Viajeros Románticos: A dreamy photo stop with panoramic views.
• Casa Museo Don Bosco: We didn’t go in, but it looked like a peaceful place to explore or take a break in the garden.
• Puente Viejo (The Old Bridge): Quieter than Puente Nuevo but still beautiful, especially when seen from the back side of town.
• Baños Árabes (Arab Baths): A serene historic site showing off the town’s Moorish influence.
• Plaza de Toros: This is one of the oldest bullrings in Spain. While I personally didn’t go for ethical reasons, it’s deeply tied to Spanish history and culture. If it interests you, it’s worth a look—even just from the outside.

Where to Eat in Ronda: Best Restaurants with a View

If you’re planning a day trip to Ronda, don’t make the mistake of grabbing a quick bite just anywhere—this town is packed with restaurants offering spectacular views, especially of the iconic Puente Nuevo bridge and the surrounding gorge. Whether you’re looking for traditional Andalusian dishes or something a little more modern, there are plenty of scenic spots to enjoy a leisurely lunch.

Here are my top picks for where to eat in Ronda, based on views, food quality, and personal experience:

Arabal Restaurante

This is where we had lunch—and I can’t recommend it enough. Arabal Restaurante is perched right next to the Puente Nuevo, offering jaw-dropping views of the gorge and bridge while you dine. We made a reservation in advance (highly recommended, especially during peak season), and it was totally worth it. The menu features elevated Andalusian cuisine with fresh ingredients and great wine.

• What to order: Grilled meats, local cheeses, and anything with Iberian pork.
• Best for: A sit-down lunch with unbeatable views and a peaceful vibe.
• Pro tip: Ask for a table on the terrace overlooking the bridge.

Restaurante Albacara (at Hotel Montelirio)

If you want a luxurious lunch with panoramic views, Restaurante Albacara is a top-tier choice. It’s located within the Hotel Montelirio, right on the cliff’s edge. The views of the El Tajo gorge and Puente Nuevo are unforgettable, and the food is refined without being overly fussy.

• What to order: Oxtail, salmorejo (cold tomato soup), and the tasting menu if you’re feeling fancy.
• Best for: Celebratory meals or special occasions.

Restaurante Don Miguel

This is another well-known spot with a terrace facing the bridge. While it’s a bit more touristy, the views are incredible and it’s perfect if you want a drink and some tapas with a killer photo op.

• What to order: Tapas platter and sangria.
• Best for: Casual lunch with a view and photo opportunities.

Tragatá

If you’re more about the food than the view—but still want a great atmosphere—Tragatá is a modern tapas bar just a few minutes from the bridge. It’s trendy, creative, and highly rated among locals and travelers alike.

• What to order: Tuna tartare, mushroom risotto, or any of their fusion tapas.
• Best for: Foodies looking for bold flavors and a more contemporary dining experience.

Whether you’re making the journey from Málaga or Seville, a day trip to Ronda is one of the most rewarding experiences in southern Spain. From its jaw-dropping views at Puente Nuevo, to its charming plazas, historic sites, and incredible food with a view—Ronda offers the perfect mix of natural beauty, history, and Andalusian charm.

If you’re short on time, a guided tour is the easiest and most efficient way to see both Ronda and nearby Setenil de las Bodegas. But however you get there, one thing is certain: Ronda will take your breath away.

Ready to add Ronda to your Spain itinerary? Trust me—you won’t regret it!