Seville to Ronda Day Trip (One Day Itinerary and Guide)

Ronda Day Trip
Image by Graeme Maclean via Flickr

Ronda is one of the most historic and beautiful towns in Andalusia. It was first settled by the Celts, then shaped by the Romans and Moors. But what really makes Ronda special is its location—perched on dramatic cliffs with stunning countryside views. Its most famous landmark, the Puente Nuevo, is an incredible bridge that rises almost 100 meters over El Tajo Gorge, dividing the town in two. With its whitewashed houses and historic bullring, it feels like a place frozen in time.

Andalusia’s big cities are exciting, but if you have extra time, Ronda is definitely worth a visit. Just a 1-hour 40-minute drive away, it’s perfect for a day trip or an overnight stay. Stroll through its historic streets, sip wine, and take in the views.

This guide has all the details you’ll need: how to get there, what to see, and the best things to do. Ronda is a place you won’t forget, I promise!

key takeaways

  • A day trip is plenty of time to enjoy Ronda, especially if you focus on exploring the old town. You can easily see the highlights in just one day.
  • The easiest way to visit Ronda from Seville is by joining a guided tour. With a tour, you won’t need to worry about driving, bus schedules, or planning stops along the way—they take care of everything, and you get to relax.
  • Ronda is closer to Seville and Málaga than it is to Granada.

Where is Ronda, Spain?

Ronda is a beautiful town sitting on a rocky hilltop in southern Spain. It’s surrounded by mountains and deep gorges, giving it amazing views. Ronda is about 100 kilometers (around 1.5 hours) from Málaga and a similar distance from Seville, making it easy to visit from both cities.

where is ronda

How to Get to Ronda from Seville

There are several ways to reach Ronda, with buses frequently connecting it to Seville and Málaga.

Seville to Ronda Bus

If you’re planning a day trip from Seville without a car or guided tour, the bus is your best option. Damas Bus operates regular services from Seville’s Plaza de Armas station.

Quick facts:

  • You can reach Ronda in 2 hours by taking the fastest bus from Seville.
  • It’s just a 12-minute walk to the Puente Nuevo from Ronda Bus Station.
  • Tickets cost about 17 EUR each way.

Seville to Ronda Train

Taking the train from Seville to Ronda isn’t the easiest option since you have to change trains in Córdoba. The trip takes about 3 hours and costs around €32, so it’s a bit slower and more expensive than taking the bus.

Ronda Organized Tours from Seville

If you’d rather skip the hassle of planning your day trip to Ronda, a guided tour can be a great option. Driving yourself can be stressful, and figuring out the bus schedule might feel overwhelming. Thankfully, there are plenty of tour companies to choose from. Personally, I recommend Naturanda—I had an excellent experience with them.

Many tours combine Ronda with visits to other charming White Villages, typical of Andalusia. Popular stops include Zahara de la Sierra, Setenil de las Bodegas, or Grazalema. It’s a fantastic way to see more than you might otherwise, especially if your time is limited!

How Much Time Do You Need for a Day Trip to Ronda from Seville

The time you’ll need depends on what you want to explore. Both sides of the famous Puente Nuevo bridge are unique, so plan for at least 4 hours to see the main sights without feeling rushed.

Ronda View of a street from the village
Image by Michael Gaylard via Flickr
Seville to Ronda Day Trip, Arco de Felipe V
Image by Michael Gaylard via Flickr

Getting Around Ronda

Ronda is small and easy to explore on foot. All the major attractions are close to each other, so walking is the best way to enjoy the city.

If you’re driving, parking in Ronda can be tricky, especially in the old town. Arrive early—by 8 am, if possible—because by 10 am, finding a spot becomes a real challenge. That said, don’t let this put you off. Some of the best parking options are Duquesa de Parcent (an old, unused school that’s safe and secure) or Plaza del Socorro, both close to the center. There are also paid parking spots near the gorge (el Tajo), which are super convenient for visiting the main sights.

Church of Our Lady of Mercy Ronda, Seville Day Trip to Ronda
Image by UncleBucko via Flickr
streets of ronda
Image by UncleBucko via Flickr

What to do in Ronda

  • Puente Nuevo: This stunning bridge is Ronda’s highlight. It links the old and new parts of the city and offers breathtaking views of the El Tajo Gorge and the surrounding valley.
  • Plaza de Toros: Spain’s oldest bullring, it’s a great place to learn about Ronda’s history and the traditions of bullfighting. Don’t miss the museum inside!
  • La Ciudad (Old Town): Wander through the charming old town with its cobbled streets and Moorish-style buildings.
  • Jardines De Cuenca: These peaceful gardens are set on terraces along the gorge. They’re ideal for a quiet stroll and give you amazing views of the Puente Nuevo.
  • Arab Baths of Ronda (Baños Árabes): These well-preserved baths date back to the Moorish period. They’re a fascinating look at life in medieval Ronda and an example of early engineering.
  • Palacio de Mondragón: This small palace-turned-museum showcases Ronda’s history. Its gardens are lovely, with views of the landscape that are just as impressive as what’s inside.
Bullring of the Royal Cavalry of Ronda
Image by Andy Maguire via Flickr
Ronda Bullring, Day Trip form Seville
Image by Richard Gray vis Flickr

Where to stay in Ronda

While you can easily visit Ronda in a day and head back to Seville, you might want to consider spending the day and night there, especially if you’re heading to Malaga afterward! It’s such a charming city, with great hotels for every budget. Here’s a selection to help you find the perfect place.

TYPEACCOMMODATIONPRICE
LuxuryHotel La Fuente de la HigueraFrom € 212 / night
Mid-rangeCatalonia Reina VictoriaFrom € 136 / night
Mid-rangeHotel Palacio de HemingwayFrom € 126 / night
BudgetHotel Boutique Palacio De La DuquesaFrom € 100 / night

FAQ and Tips

Tips before you go

  • If you’re driving, try to get there early to find parking near the center.
  • Staying in Ronda for a night is worth it! The town feels even more magical in the early morning and evening, plus you’ll have extra time to explore another white village (such as Setenil de las Bodegas) !
  • Comfortable shoes are a must. Ronda’s streets are steep, and you’ll be climbing plenty of stairs while exploring.

Is Ronda, Spain worth visiting?

Yes, definitely! Ronda is one of the most beautiful places in Andalusia. The town has amazing views, charming streets, and great food. If you can, spend a night—it’s much nicer when the daytime crowds leave.

Why is Ronda so famous?

Ronda is one of Andalusia’s famous white villages, but its biggest attraction is the Puente Nuevo, a huge 98-meter-high bridge. The town also has a historic bullring, which writer Ernest Hemingway wrote about since he was a big fan of bullfighting.

Is Ronda a walkable city?

Yes, but be ready for hills! You’ll need to walk up and down to see the best viewpoints. A car is useful to get to Ronda, but once you’re there, walking is the best way to explore.

What food is Ronda known for?

One of Ronda’s most famous dishes is Rabo de Toro—a slow-cooked oxtail stew that’s rich and full of flavor.

Puente Nuevo, Ronda
Image by Alan Grant via Flickr
Ronda Gorge
Image by Michael Gaylard via Flickr