Marbella to Ronda Day Trip: Explore Andalusia’s Dramatic Clifftop Town, stunning views and Historic Andalusian Landmarks
If you are looking for a fun day trip to Ronda from Marbella, it’s easy enough to do. From taking public transportation, private transfer or getting a rental car, you can easily get to Ronda in under an hour
The distance between Marbella to the scenic mountainside town of Ronda is about 63 Km or 40 miles gong through well established roads and twisting through the Parque Nacional Sierra de las Nieves with many scenic vista points or hiking areas (if you have a rental car) There are buses that make the drive daily from the Marbella bus station downtown.
By Bus public transportation
Duration: 1 hour and 22 minutes
The drive from Marbella to Ronda via bus starts at the Marbella bus terminal just on the outskirts of the city limit and goes through the A-397 through scenic and twisted roadway to the hilltop city of Ronda.
Buses to Ronda from Marbella’s bus station run just a few times throughout the day ( 4 times daily), typically twice in the morning, once in the afternoon, and once at night, operated by Avanza. You can book tickets in advance online or purchase direct at the station when you arrive.
The bus service runs direct to each city with no transfers required and take an average of 1 hr and 22 minutes
By Rental Car or Private Transfer
Duration: 1 hour
The drive from Marbella to Ronda is exceptionally scenic, as you’ll pass right through the Parque Nacional Sierra de las Nieves. You’ll follow the twists and turns of the A-397 highway, driving for a little over one hour’s drive, but with stops at vista points can be longer. Toward the top of the mountain pass are numerous viewpoints and hiking trails that we detail below for you to extend your experience visiting the area around Ronda.
Fantastic vista points
Along the route up to Ronda are a variety of nice lookout points. One of the best viewpoints is at the top of the pass at the Mirador de Igualeja, located at the half way mark to the city.
If you’d like to do some hiking, consider turning at the village of Igualeja, where you’ll find two hiking options. The first one is a convenient loop route that begins in the Genal River Natural Monument, wraps around Cerro Vázquez, and passes another viewpoint lookout point to the areas below on the Costa del Sol
Visit the Old Town of Ronda and main attractions
Ronda’s Old Town, known as La Ciudad, is a charming maze of cobbled streets, whitewashed houses, and centuries-old architecture that reflects its Moorish and medieval past. Crossing the Puente Nuevo into this historic quarter feels like stepping back in time, with quiet plazas, ornate churches, and grand palaces tucked among artisan shops and traditional tapas bars. It’s a place where you can wander at your own pace, uncovering hidden corners, panoramic viewpoints, and layers of history in every turn.
I. Puente Nuevo (New Bridge)
- Iconic stone bridge spanning the El Tajo Gorge.
- Offers dramatic views of the surrounding countryside and the Guadalevín River.
- Built in the 18th century, connecting the old and new parts of Ronda.
II. El Tajo Gorge
- Deep canyon carved by the Guadalevín River.
- Walking trails and viewpoints for spectacular photo opportunities.
- Best views from the bridges and surrounding terraces.
III. Plaza de Toros de Ronda (Ronda Bullring)
- One of the oldest bullrings in Spain, dating to the late 18th century.
- Includes a museum on bullfighting traditions and history.
- Architectural highlight with a large, elegant arena.
IV. Ronda’s Old Town (La Ciudad)
- Narrow, cobbled streets with Moorish and medieval architecture.
- Charming squares, artisan shops, and traditional tapas bars.
- Historic churches and palaces.
V. Arab Baths (Baños Árabes)
- Well-preserved Moorish bathhouse from the 13th century.
- Features intricate arches and water systems.
- Insight into Islamic-era architecture and culture.
VI. Mondragón Palace (Palacio de Mondragón)
- Former Moorish palace with beautiful courtyards and gardens.
- Houses the Municipal Museum with archaeological displays.
- Mix of Islamic and Renaissance architectural styles.
VII. Alameda del Tajo Gardens
- Scenic public gardens with shaded paths and viewing platforms.
- Overlooks the surrounding countryside.
- Peaceful spot for strolling and taking in Ronda’s landscape.
VIII. Casa del Rey Moro (House of the Moorish King)
- Historic building with lush terraced gardens.
- Includes a staircase carved into the cliff leading to the river.
- Romantic gardens offering great views of the gorge.
IX. Church of Santa Maria la Mayor
- Built over a former mosque, blending Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque elements.
- Richly decorated interior with religious art.
- Central location in the old town.
X. Ronda’s Viewpoints (Miradores)
- Mirador de Aldehuela and Balcon del Coño for panoramic vistas.
- Popular for sunset views.
Check out these other posts to visiting the area
Once you arrive Ronda , there’s plenty to see and do in the city, check out the links below for cool attractions and places to visit in Ronda
Day trip from Malaga to Marbella
Best things to do in Torremolinos
Conclusion to a day trip from Marbella to Ronda
A visit to Ronda is more than just a day trip — it’s an immersion into Andalusia’s dramatic landscapes, rich history, and timeless charm. From the thrill of standing atop the Puente Nuevo to the quiet beauty of its gardens and winding streets, every moment here feels like a scene from a storybook. Whether you come for the history, the food, or the views, Ronda promises memories you’ll carry long after you’ve left. So pack your camera, bring your curiosity, and let Ronda show you why it remains one of Spain’s most unforgettable destinations.