How to Get from Ronda to Málaga

The distance from the scenic mountainside town of Ronda to Málaga on the Costa del Sol is about 63 miles (102 km). The most comfortable way to get from Ronda to Málaga is by hiring a private transfer or driving a rental car—a quick and straightforward trip of 1.5 hours. There is also a train that leaves once per day, and frequent buses are available. 

Ronda and the White Villages are a popular day trip from Málaga. If you’d like to see them more thoroughly, you can experience the region plus Jerez and Cádiz with this eight-day itinerary.

By Rental Car or Private Transfer

Duration: 1.5 hours, more with stops

Private transfers can be booked from Ronda to Málaga. There is also the possibility of renting a car. Note that Ronda is quite a small town, without much presence from the major car rental companies; Málaga or Seville are better places to pick up or drop off your car.

When driving from Ronda to Málaga, you have the option of taking the inland route (highways A367 and A357) or the coastal route (highways A397 and AP7). The advantage of the inland route is that it is a little bit faster, with less traffic and without tolls. However, if you choose to take the coastal route, you will have the option of stopping at Costa del Sol beach towns like Marbella or Fuengirola along the way.

Regardless of the route you take, one interesting attraction between Ronda and Málaga is the Sierra de las Nieves Natural Park. This mountainous nature reserve is a great place to stop off for a hike.   

By Train

Duration: 3 hours

Spain’s state-owned train operator is called Renfe. Renfe does operate a direct train between Ronda and Málaga; however, it leaves very infrequently (usually once per day, in the afternoon). The journey takes just under three hours. Booking in advance is recommended.

Since there will not be another train afterward, be sure to arrive at the station early. If you do accidentally miss your train, you have the option of catching a bus to Málaga. 

By Bus

Duration: 2 hours

Buses to Málaga frequently leave from Ronda’s bus station throughout the day, operated by Damas and Avanza. Tickets can also be booked in advance.

The bus station in Ronda is a five-minute walk from the train station, along Avenida Andalucia. Note that there is a small fee to use the toilet at the bus station. There is a supermarket not far from the station if you would like to buy snacks for your journey.