How to Get from Seville to Ronda

Ronda, the city set in the mountainous region of Málaga, is a quick 79 miles (127 km) from Seville, the Andalusian city that's famous for flamenco dancing. The quickest way to make this trip is by car, as the drive is just an hour and a half without stops. But since this route passes by several of the region's famed Pueblos Blancos (White Villages), we recommend making a road trip out of the journey. 

You can also take a two and a half hour direct bus ride, or a slightly longer train ride, although a train requires you to change in Córdoba.

If you'd like to see more of Andalusia, consider this 7-day itinerary that includes a stop in the coastal city of Málaga and a visit to a winery. Or try this 8-day itinerary that focuses on Andalusia's interior with stops in the architecturally stunning cities of Seville, Ronda, and Granada. 

By Rental Car or Private Transfer

Duration: 1 hour and 45 minutes (standard highway route), 4 hours (recommended road trip route)

If you prefer to do some sightseeing on your own, renting a car is the recommended method to travel to Ronda, as the roads in Andalusia are much easier to navigate than those found farther north. There are many rental car services to choose from in Seville, and small rental cars are popular choices as streets are often very narrow. Make sure you ask the rental company where to drop off the car and ensure it fits your travel plans.

This route takes you along A-375. Consider one or more of the following stops, whether by rental car or private transfer:

Jerez de la Frontera

When starting from Seville, instead of following the roads through the countryside, take the E5 highway south to Jerez de la Frontera. This beautiful city is known for its architecture, Sherry, and horseriding. The Old Town surrounds an 11th-century Moorish fortress, the Alcázar de Jerez, plus highlights like the Jerez Cathedral and Plaza del Arenal. You'll also find plenty of opportunities to taste Sherry and the Royal Andalusian School of Equestrian Art, a historic riding school with shows, stables, and a museum.

Arcos de la Frontera

Continue your drive and stop in one of Andalusia's most beautiful Pueblos Blancos. Arcos de la Frontera has two main attractions atop its cliffside hills: the large medieval Castillo de Arcos de la Frontera and the Iglesia de San Pedro, constructed in the 16th and 17th centuries. But the views are just as fascinating, and we recommend passing through the charming Bésame en este Arco to reach the Mirador de Abades, offering a 360-degree panorama. 

Grazalema

Next, drive through the stunning Sierra de Grazalema Natural Park via El Bosque and stop in Grazalema. Nature and views surround this White Village, best enjoyed at the Mirador Del Santo viewpoint near the ruins of Ermita del Calvario, an 18th-century Calvario hermitage. The trail is uphill, though not long, and only steep in a few spots. Both sites have places to sit and relax or enjoy a snack. If you have enough time, other places worth visiting in Grazalema include the colorful Iglesia de San José and the town's main square, Plaza de España.

Zahara de la Sierra

From Grazalema, the drive north to Zahara de la Sierra is one of the most beautiful stretches in the park. If you'd like to hike a bit more, you'll find plenty of trails leading off this route, plus a few viewpoints, including Puerto de la Palomas. Once in Zahara, don't miss the views from the Castle of Zahara de la Sierra and Torre del Homenaje, which stretch across a valley and lake to the mountains. Visit a few other viewpoints, then end at the Church of Santa María de la Mesa. From there, walk down Calle San Juan, lined with restaurants, cafés, and bars, to enjoy a meal or snack. 

The drive from Zahara de la Sierra to Ronda is another beautiful stretch, curving around the reservoir and entering Ronda via a beautiful valley.

For an itinerary including this White Villages road trip, check out this 7-day self-drive through Andalusia. 

By Bus

Duration: 2.5 hours

By bus, the journey will take two and a half hours, and each bus will be equipped with wifi and air conditioning. You can book a ticket directly to Ronda, and the company that operates this route is Avanza. Buses taking this route will leave from the Plaza de Armas, and they usually run numerous times a day, so there are plenty of options to fit in your schedule. It's best to purchase your ticket online ahead of time, but you can also purchase them at the station.

By Train

Duration: 3.5 hours

Trains from Seville to Ronda run three times a day and transfer at Córdoba. The train company, Renfe, has high-speed trains (called "Ave"), and ticket prices are reasonable. You can purchase tickets online, via the Renfe app, or at the Sevilla Santa Justa train station.

You may have the option to select a "flexible" fare, which allows you to modify your trip if needed. Make sure to be seated on the train at least 5-10 minutes before departure to ensure you get a seat.