Ronda, perched on a plateau in Andalusia, is a city of dramatic cliffs and a rich culture known for bullfighting and bandits. Ernest Hemingway immortalized Ronda's unique charm in his novel For Whom the Bell Tolls.
The city's most iconic landmark is the Puente Nuevo bridge, spanning the 100-meter-deep Tajo de Ronda gorge. Another key attraction is the Plaza de Toros, one of Spain's oldest bullrings. Visitors can also explore the old Moorish town, La Ciudad, and discover Ronda's exotic past at the Museum of Bandits and the ancient Arab Baths.
Discover the best places to visit in this breathtaking city with our list of top attractions and things to do in Ronda.
1. Puente Nuevo (New Bridge)
The Puente Nuevo, an engineering marvel completed in 1788, connects the old Moorish town with the newer El Mercadillo quarter. The bridge offers stunning views of the gorge and the Río Guadalevín. Visitors can also enjoy the views from the trails within the Tajo de Ronda.
For a unique experience, adventurous travelers can take a guided buggy tour through the Tajo de Ronda's rugged terrain.
2. Plaza de Toros
The Plaza de Toros, built in 1785, is a historic bullring where the Romero dynasty of matadors once fought. Today, it hosts bullfights only during the annual Feria de Pedro Romana festival. The site includes the bullring, a Bullfighting Museum, and other facilities open to the public.
Address: Real Maestranza de Caballería, Calle Virgen de la Paz, Ronda
Official site: http://www.rmcr.org/es/english.html
3. Baños Árabes (Moorish Baths)
The Baños Arabes, dating from the 13th to 15th centuries, are among the best-preserved Moorish Baths in Spain. Located near the Puente Viejo, the baths feature a hydraulic heating system and characteristic Islamic architecture.
Address: Calle Molino de Alarcón, Ronda
4. Alameda del Tajo
The Alameda del Tajo, a 19th-century park, offers a tranquil setting with panoramic views. Nearby are the Hotel Catalonia Reina Victoria and the Parador de Ronda, both offering excellent amenities and stunning views.
5. La Casa del Rey Moro
The Casa del Rey Moro, an 18th-century mansion, features terraced gardens with views of Ronda's landscape. The site includes a water mine leading to the Guadalevin River.
Address: Calle Cuesta de Santo Domingo, Ronda
6. Museo Arqueológico Municipal
The Municipal Museum of Archaeology in the Palacio de Mondaragón showcases prehistoric to Roman artifacts from the region.
Address: Plaza Mondragón, Ronda
Official site: www.museoderonda.es
7. Museo Lara
The Museo Lara, in the Casa Palacio de los Condes de las Conquistas, displays diverse collections, including antique scientific instruments and artifacts related to the Holy Inquisition.
Address: 29 Calle Armiñán, Ronda
Official site: www.museolara.org
8. La Ciudad: The Old Moorish Town
La Ciudad, the medieval Moorish town, is the heart of Ronda with its historic squares and pedestrian streets. Notable sites include the Iglesia Santa María la Mayor and the Palacio de Mondragón.
9. The Lower Bridges: Puente Viejo and Puente de San Miguel
The Puente Viejo and Puente de San Miguel are historic bridges that offer scenic hiking and biking trails through the gorge.
10. Celebrating Heritage: Ronda's Annual Festivals
Ronda's festivals, including the Ronda Romantic and Feria de Pedro Romero, celebrate the city's rural and bullfighting heritage with parades, shows, and traditional events.
11. Iglesia de Santa María La Mayor
The Iglesia de Santa María La Mayor, a historic church with a rich history, is open for visits most days, offering a glimpse into Ronda's religious past.
Address: Plaza Duquesa de Parcent, Ronda
Where to Stay in Ronda for Sightseeing
For luxury, mid-range, and budget accommodations, Ronda offers a variety of hotels close to major attractions, providing modern amenities and traditional charm.
More Related Articles on tripates.com
Explore nearby destinations like Marbella and Málaga on the Costa del Sol, or visit the British territory of Gibraltar for a mix of natural and cultural attractions.
