Ronda is a mountaintop city set dramatically above a deep gorge. This gorge (El Tajo) separates the city’s circa-15th-century new town from its old town, dating to Moorish rule and offers a blend of dramatic landscapes, rich history, and quintessential Spanish charm. Ronda has inspired poets, artists, and travellers for centuries.
Here are the top spots you simply must see when visiting Ronda.

1. Puente Nuevo (New Bridge)

Perhaps the most iconic sight in Ronda, the Puente Nuevo spans the dizzying El Tajo gorge, connecting the old Moorish town with the newer parts of the city. Built in the 18th century, the bridge offers breath-taking views of the surrounding countryside and the Guadalevín River far below. Be sure to visit the viewing platforms for the best photo opportunities.

2. Plaza de Toros

Ronda is home to one of the oldest bullrings in Spain, the Plaza de Toros, which dates back to 1785. Even if you’re not keen on bullfighting, the architecture and the accompanying museum provide fascinating insights into this deeply rooted aspect of Spanish culture. The arena itself is a beautiful example of neoclassical design and is often used for cultural events.

3. La Ciudad (Old Town)

Wander through the cobbled streets of Ronda’s Old Town, where whitewashed buildings and orange-tiled roofs evoke the town’s Moorish past. Highlights include the Arab Baths, the Church of Santa Maria la Mayor, and Mondragón Palace, which houses a small museum detailing Ronda’s complex history.

4. El Tajo Gorge

While Puente Nuevo spans it, El Tajo Gorge deserves exploration in its own right. Hiking trails wind around the cliffs and offer unforgettable views of the bridge from below. For the more adventurous, there are paths leading down to the river that showcase Ronda’s rugged beauty from a completely different perspective.

5. Alameda del Tajo

Just steps from the bullring, most visitors snap a photo from the viewpoint and quickly move on. But linger a little, and you’ll discover that these 19th-century gardens offer more than sweeping vistas. Locals come here to stroll beneath horse chestnut and pine trees, read quietly on shaded benches, or feed the resident peacocks. It’s a peaceful spot to slow down and soak in the rhythm of everyday life in Ronda.  It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a peaceful rest.

6. Casa del Rey Moro (House of the Moorish King)

While many pass by the Casa del Rey Moro for its crumbling façade, the real treasure lies below: the Water Mine (La Mina). This labyrinth of stairs descends nearly 60 metres into the depths of El Tajo Gorge, originally built by Moorish engineers to access the river during sieges. As you descend through narrow, echoing chambers, you’ll feel far removed from the bustling clifftop above. It’s not for the faint-hearted, but the view at the bottom, is worth every step. Though the house itself isn’t entirely original, the gardens and the descent into the gorge make for a memorable experience.

7. Palacio de Mondragón

Often overlooked, this charming palace features Mudejar-style courtyards and exhibits ranging from Roman times through to the Christian Reconquista. It’s an excellent place to understand the layers of history that have shaped Ronda.

8. Cueva del Gato – The Cat’s Cave

Located a short drive from Ronda, the Cueva del Gato is a striking cave set into a sheer rock face near the village of Benaoján. It’s named after its feline-shaped entrance, and while the interior is restricted to protect delicate ecosystems, the exterior is a popular spot for wild swimming in the crystalline waters that pour from the cave’s mouth. Surrounded by nature and usually free from tourist groups, it’s a favourite among locals on hot summer days.

9. Murallas del Carmen – Walk the Forgotten Walls

Ronda was once a fortified Moorish city, and remnants of its ancient walls can still be explored if you know where to look. The Murallas del Carmen, near the Church of Espíritu Santo, are often missed by visitors sticking to the main tourist drag. Climb these modest but evocative ramparts for a different perspective of the town and surrounding countryside. At sunset, the golden light on the stone and the quietude of the scene are simply magical.

10. Barrio de San Francisco – The Soul of the Town

This traditional neighbourhood, located just beyond the old city gates, feels a world away from Ronda’s busier centre. Here, you’ll find no souvenir shops or selfie sticks – just whitewashed homes, small family-run eateries, and friendly locals chatting in doorways. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a slow lunch of berenjenas con miel (fried aubergines with honey) and a glass of local wine in a sleepy plaza, surrounded by the gentle sounds of everyday Spanish life.