Starting in January 2025, access to the Puente Nuevo bridge in Ronda will only be to vehicles registered with the town council. This new regulation aims to preserve the historic heart of the town and ease traffic congestion. However, if you are visiting or staying in a hotel in the affected area then you can still enjoy the charm of Ronda and its Old Town with a few simple tips to navigate the changes.
Restricting traffic to the Puente Nuevo has been tried before and has failed each time due to public outcry. We should remember though that this beautiful monument was built many year ago for horses and carriages and certainly not the amount of traffic it has to endure in modern times.
IMPORTANT: Hotel guests staying in this area will be able to pass through by notifying their hotel in advance, who will then inform the police of their reservation. To enforce the restrictions, cameras will be installed at Cuesta de las Imágenes (San Francisco) and Virgen de la Paz, near the intersection with Mariano Soubiron and the Plaza Merced.
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
Ronda, a stunning mountaintop city in Andalusia, offers visitors breathtaking views, historic landmarks, and an authentic Spanish atmosphere. However, its narrow, winding streets can make driving in Ronda a challenge for first-time visitors.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about driving in Ronda, from navigating the old town to finding the best parking spots.
Renting a car is still the best way to explore the surrounding white villages and natural parks—here’s how to make the most of it.
Navigating Ronda’s Historic Streets
Driving through Ronda’s old town can feel like stepping back in time. The city was built before cars were ever considered, resulting in narrow streets and tight turns. The Casco Antiguo (Old Town), with its maze of cobblestone alleys, can be a bit tricky to drive through, especially if you’re not used to handling a car in city centres.
Tips for Driving in Ronda’s Old Town
Opt for a small car:Renting a compact car is ideal for navigating Ronda’s narrow streets. Larger vehicles might struggle with tight corners and parking spaces.
Avoid peak times: Streets can get crowded with pedestrians, especially around popular sites like the Puente Nuevo. Try driving early in the morning or later in the evening when traffic is lighter.
Use a GPS or map app: Some streets in the old town are one-way or pedestrian-only zones. A good navigation tool will help you avoid wrong turns and restricted areas.
Parking in Ronda’s historic center is limited, but there are several convenient options around the city. Parking garages and designated lots are your best bet, allowing you to explore the town on foot without the stress of finding street parking.
Street Parking: While there is some free parking available on the outskirts, finding a spot can be tough, especially during high tourist seasons. TOP TIP: Opt for paid parking for more peace of mind.
Best Scenic Drives Around Ronda
While driving in Ronda’s old town can be tricky, the real reward comes from exploring the countryside surrounding the city. Renting a car allows you to visit some of the most beautiful white villages (pueblos blancos), natural parks, and historic sites in Andalusia.
Sunflowers in Andalucia and the stunning scenery around Ronda
Must-Do Drives Near Ronda
Grazalema Natural Park: Drive through this stunning natural park, known for its rugged landscapes and charming villages like Grazalema and Zahara de la Sierra.
Setenil de las Bodegas: Just a short drive from Ronda, this village is famous for its houses built into the rock. The scenic drive through the rolling hills of the countryside makes it worth the trip.
Acinipo (Old Ronda): Located about 20 km from Ronda, this ancient Roman settlement offers a fascinating glimpse into history, and the drive itself is breathtaking.
Grazalema should be on the list of your white village discovery.
Why Renting a Car in Ronda is a Must
Even though driving in Ronda’s old town may be a challenge, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore beyond the city. Public transportation is limited in the surrounding areas, making a car the best way to see the hidden gems of Andalusia. Whether you’re driving through the white villages or heading into the Sierra de las Nieves, a rental car offers flexibility and convenience.
Tips for First-Time Drivers in Ronda
To make your driving experience in Ronda as smooth as possible, here are a few extra tips for first-timers:
Take it slow: The narrow streets and pedestrian-heavy areas can be overwhelming, so don’t rush. Give yourself plenty of time to navigate.
Watch for signs: Many streets are one-way or restricted, especially in the old town. Pay attention to local signs to avoid fines.
Park outside the old town: Save yourself the stress of tight turns by parking in one of Ronda’s designated lots or garages and walking into the city center.
Prepare for mountain roads: Ronda is perched high above the surrounding valleys, so be ready for winding mountain roads, especially if you venture out to the nearby villages or natural parks.
While Ronda’s streets may be narrow, renting a car is the key to experiencing everything this region has to offer. From the dramatic mountain scenery to the charming white villages, Andalusia is best explored by road. With the right preparation, driving in Ronda can be a rewarding experience, allowing you to see so much more.
Ronda Today
Everything you need to know before you visit Ronda “The city of dreams” in Andalucia. https://www.rondatoday.com/
Visit Cádiz
Planning on visiting Cádiz? Tourist information. Monuments. Hotels. Activities. City guides: https://visitingcadiz.com/
Take a trip on the Wildside! Discover the wildlife and nature of Spain, its Natural and National Parks and find the top wildlife, activity and walking holiday companies.
Iberia Nature Forum
Struggling with identifying those bugs and beasties? Why not check out the Iberia nature Forum! https://iberianatureforum.com/
I’ve been living in this lovely area of Western Andalucia for the last 20 years or so and dedicate most of my time to the running of English language tourist information websites for the towns of Cádiz, Ronda, Grazalema, the famous or infamous Caminito del Rey, and also Wildside Holidays, which promotes sustainable and eco-friendly businesses running wildlife and walking holidays in Spain. My articles contain affiliate links that will help you reserve a hotel, bus, train or activity in the area. You don’t pay more, but by using them you do support this website. Thankyou!
