10 Best Things To Do In Ronda, Spain

things to do in ronda spain
Veidehi
Veidehi 
Updated
| 6 min read

The magical town of Ronda offers some of the most extraordinary sights in Spain. Surrounded by lush valleys, Ronda is breathtakingly gorgeous, with many intriguing fragments on showcase. Bull fighting is amongst one of the most popular activities in this region! Therefore begin your trip by visiting the bull ring at Plaza de Toros, followed by the Arab Baths of Banos Arabes and the Bridge of Puente Nuevo for panoramic views.

Other iconic landmarks in Ronda include the Plaza Duquesa de Parcent, the Arabic walls, the city gates and Museo Lara. Dine at Restaurante Pedro Romero, Faustino and Restaurante Tragabuches, to get a taste of delightful Spanish cuisine. Moreover, wine lovers can indulge in a wine tasting tour of 20 different wineries in the countryside. A cup of classified organic tea at Tetería Al Zahra is also a must for all visitors. Let’s take a look at the 10 best things to do in Ronda, this season.

1. Visit the bull ring at Plaza De Toros

Visit Spain’s oldest and most esteemed bull ring, which houses a museum of memorabilia and hosts a bullfight, during the festival. The 18th century Plaza de Toros is a symbol of modern Spanish culture. The bullfighting in this arena represents Rondeno style, while the ring is surrounded by a transit, formed by two rings of stone. In addition, the Royal Box flaunts a sloping roof of Arabic tiles.

You can visit the Plaza de Toros for a small fee of 8 USD, between 10 am to 6 pm. You will have to pay an additional 2 USD for an audio guide.

Bull Ring at Plaza De Toros

Address: Calle Virgen de la Paz, 15, 29400 Ronda, Málaga, Spain

Website: Plaza De Toros

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2. Explore the Arab baths of Banos Arabes

The Arab Baths, (Banos Arabes) are one of Ronda’s most famous tourist attractions. These baths are designed to perfection, like Roman baths, except they used steam, instead of hot water. This Moorish bath represents traditional Muslim values, where people visited ‘Banos-Arabes’ to purify and cleanse their souls. In earlier times, the baths were partially constructed underground, to allow for temperature control.

You will find yourself overlooking the baths, from the main entrance. The round, raised mass of land, embedded in the ground, is pretty fascinating, and so are the circular glass panels. Explore different chambers, and get absorbed in the Arabic culture. The dreamy dome ceiling sports star-shaped skylights and the pool here was a drinking fountain and not a bath. You can visit this Arab bath for 3.50 USD, and if you are a part of a group it’s just 2 USD, per person. Take advantage of free entry on Sunday.

Arab Baths of Banos Arabes

Address: Calle Sta. Ana, 16, 18009 Granada, Spain

Website: Banos Arabes

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3. Tour the bridge of Puente Nuevo

Ronda 09 Puente Nuevo (4579241071)
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Ronnie Macdonald used under CC BY 2.0

The new bridge of Puente Nuevo is the largest of three bridges that span the Guadalevin River, dissecting the city of Ronda. This impressive bridge offers 300 feet (91.4 meter) drops, to the bottom of the gorge. It’s a unique form of architecture that exhibits breathtaking views, and the architectural advancement of the region.

The Bridge of Ronda is the heart and soul of the town. Take time to visit the chamber underneath the bridge, that was formerly a prison. Most of all, take the path down and you will meet the most stunning views of the valley and the hills. Finish your visit by visiting the adjoining parador, or hotel which offers plenty of food options.

Bridge of Puente Nuevo

Address: Calle Armiñán, s/n, 29400 Ronda, Málaga, Spain

Website: Puente Nuevo

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4. Visit the Plaza Duquesa de Parcent

This plaza is the loveliest space in Ronda and boasts a series of monuments. Explore the Iglesia de Santa Maria del Mayor, with its exquisite bell tower, or the church, built on the ruins of a mosque, believed to have been the center of prayer in the Arabic medina. The church, built in both Gothic and Renaissance style, is the prime religious site of Ronda. Similarly, the bell tower can be heard throughout Ronda, and it is adjoined by the convents of Caridad and the Claristas, each with their private chapel. The Plaza’s collection of impressive buildings and archaeological findings is amazing.

Plaza Duquesa De Parcent

Address: 29400 Ronda, Spain

Website: Plaza Duquesa De Parcent

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5. Ronda's Arabic walls and city gate

This part of Ronda takes you back to the war history of Andalucia! These walls will make you wonder about the security of early eras, because the city walls, gorge and Rio Guadalevin made Ronda impermeable from attack until the cannon age. The original Arabic wall extends over Puente Arabe, between the city, factories and the Arab Baths. A city gate existed earlier, on Puente Arabe, which lead to Granada before a new quarter was developed in Christian times. This gate was guarded by the best security and was almost unconquered.

When you get here, take the time to appreciate the strength of the architecture from that period. A new wall and an easier route were created for carts, at Puerta De Los Molinos. This particular wall is called the Murallas de Poniente, though locals jokingly call it “El Pene” meaning a rocky point, extending into the sky.

Ronda's Arabic Walls and City Gate

Address: 29400 Ronda, Málaga, Spain

Website: Ronda’s Arabic Walls and City Gate

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6. Unveil the Museo Lara and Museo de Ronda

Ronda is also home to two fabulous museums, the Museo Lara and Museo de Ronda. While touring the Museo Lara, you will be amazed by the unique collection of carved timepieces, pottery, typewriters and cameras, from the earliest eras. Dare to visit the fascinating instruments of torture in the basement and the guns and swords room. The antiquities range from ancient coins to an impressive collection of old microscopes and movie memorabilia.

Likewise, the Museo de Ronda is a small, yet interesting museum to visit. This tiny museum features authentic Spanish cinema relics, comic books and pieces from the bandits of the screen. There’s plenty of information available here in English, Spanish, French and German. Moreover, you can buy a souvenir here, from the gift shop at the entrance to the museum.

Museo Lara

Address: Calle Armiñán, 29, 29400 Ronda, Málaga, Spain

Website: Museo Lara

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7. Dine at Restaurante Pedro Romero and Cafe Bar El Torero

Spain demands you indulge in delightful Spanish or Mediterranean cuisine, and Rhoda offers plenty of nice restaurants. Begin with the celebrated Pedro Romero, which is situated right opposite the bull ring! This eatery dedicated to bullfighting, offers a classic Rondeno menu, with traditional items like braised oxtail, partridge stew with dried fruit and chicken curry with chips.

Faustino, on the other hand, displays a vibrant tapas bar, with an open traditional atrium, shrubs, bullfighting and religious pictures. Do taste the popular ‘Champiñones a la Plancha’ which is a grilled mushroom dish with garlic. Above all, you can’t leave Ronda before dining at the famous Cafe Bar El Torero, or Tragabuches with its 180-degree view. Enjoy its rustic decor, with a sleek, modern and innovative menu. Soak in the ambience, Mediterranean cuisine, Spanish wine, music and vibes.

Cafe Bar El Torero

Address: Calle Armiñán, 1, 29400 Ronda, Málaga, Spain

Facebook: Cafe Bar El Torero

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8. Discover the 18th century Casa del Rey Moro

The 18th century Casa del Rey Moro symbolises Ronda’s Moorish gardens, restored by the French gardener, Jean-Claude Forestier. The disintegrated staircase was restored in 1911, and originally, there were 365 steps. As of today, there are only 300 stairs left, while the remaining 65 stairs mysteriously vanished. Be careful when you walk, as the steps are uneven and occasionally damp. Eventually, after climbing all the stairs, you reach the final door! This is where you can catch a breathtaking view of the gorge, with the sounds of singing birds and water lapping. Retrace your step and climb all the way to Forestier’s gardens.

Casa Del Rey Moro

Address: Calle Cuesta de Santo Domingo, 9, 29400 Ronda, Málaga, Spain

Website: Casa Del Rey Moro

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9. Plan a wine tasting tour in Ronda

Ronda, vista de la Sierra
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Pau Lagunas used under CC0

Spain is a wine country, with the largest area of vineyards in the world. Therefore, make sure to enjoy the beautiful landscapes, with a glass of Spanish wine during your trip. In Ronda, explore the wineries of Serrania de Ronda, Bodega Garcia Hidalgo, Tannin Trail and Milamores, through astounding landscapes. These wineries are a haven for romantics and wine lovers, from around the world! Revel in cheese tasting, along with some wine and stroll through the gorgeous vineyards. The giant grape valleys of Ronda are romantic, adventurous and a great spot to spend time with family.

Bodega Garcia Hidalgo

Address: A-6300, 38, 29400 Ronda, Málaga, Spain

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10. Taste the tea at Tetería Al Zahra

Posted by Teteria Al-Zahra on Wednesday, 26 June 2013

Bizcocho de sémola, naranja y coco...wooohhh

Posted by Teteria Al-Zahra on Thursday, 16 April 2015

What better way to unwind than by sipping a warm cup of tea! Teteria Al Zahra is an ideal place to escape the summer heat, and it also offers a great ambience with a pot of herbal tea and a variety of hookahs. Teteria Al Zahra, has the best collection of pancakes and Pakistani, herbal and Moroccan teas. The tea is served in Moroccan ceramic teapots, with cups and saucers. Spend an evening here sipping, puffing and gossiping.

Teteria Al Zahra

Address: Calle las Tiendas, 19, 29400 Ronda, Málaga, Spain

Facebook: Teteria Al Zahra

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Visiting Ronda is fun

If you get the chance, visit the Arab Baths, the selective homes and the Hotel Alavera de los Banos, that still follow the Moorish way of life. Ronda brings out the true essence of Spain, enveloped in the rustic flavors the of majestic countryside. Observe and participate in as many activities as you can - we promise it will be fun.

Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Veidehi, also known as Krazy Butterfly, is a multi-award-winning travel writer and explorer who likes to write about destinations, diverse cultures and cuisines that bring everyone together.

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