Mallorca: Sóller and Port of Sóller Train and Tram Tour

This half-day tour offers a charming journey through Mallorca’s landscapes on a century-old train and a historic tram. For $69 per person, you’ll travel from Palma to the picturesque village of Sóller, nestled in the Tramuntana mountains, and then hop on a vintage tram to the Port of Sóller. It’s an experience designed for those who enjoy scenic rides, quaint towns, and a touch of nostalgia.

What we love about this trip is the chance to see Mallorca’s lush orange groves, olive trees, and dramatic mountain scenery unfold from the windows of a beautifully preserved train. The modernist touches in Sóller’s town square, especially the church of San Bartolomé and the town bank, add a layer of architectural charm. Plus, the tram ride offers a relaxed way to soak in the maritime atmosphere of the port.

However, one possible drawback is that timing can be tight. Several reviews mention limited time in each location, especially in Sóller and its port, which might leave you wishing for more exploration. Also, the trip is quite focused on the ride itself, so if you’re after a full day of sightseeing, this may feel a bit rushed.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate historic trains and authentic local landscapes. If your main goal is to have a quick taste of Mallorca’s scenic beauty combined with a bit of town ambiance, you’ll find this tour rewarding. But if you prefer more time in each town or in-depth exploration, consider a more extended option or full-day experience.

Key Points

• Scenic Ride: Travel on a century-old train through the Sierra de Alfabia, offering views of orange groves and rugged mountains.
• Authentic Town Visit: Explore Sóller’s modernist town square, featuring architecture by Joan Rubió.
• Charming Tram: Ride a historic tram from Sóller to its bustling port, surrounded by mountains and maritime history.
• Time Considerations: Expect limited time in each stop, which may leave some wishing for longer visits.
• Comfort & Practicality: Bring comfortable shoes, sun protection, and water, as walking is involved and the weather can be hot.
• Tour Flexibility: The route varies depending on train schedules, sometimes combining train and bus, which adds a bit of unpredictability.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Journey Begins: Palma to Sóller on a Historic Train

Starting in Palma, you’ll board a wooden train that’s been weaving through Mallorca’s mountains for over 100 years. This train, part of the historic railway line, offers an engaging ride through Sierra de Alfabia and the Valley of Sóller. The train’s vintage charm—think old woodwork and classic window styles—makes it a treat for travel enthusiasts.

As you chug along, you’ll love the views of orange groves and olive trees stretching into the distance, framed by mountain peaks. Some travelers, like Gayle, have noted that while the scenery is stunning, the actual time in each place can be limited, with only around 20 to 25 minutes in Sóller and its port. Still, the ride itself offers a kind of moving postcard of Mallorca’s agricultural heartland.

Exploring Sóller’s Town Center

Arriving in Sóller, you’ll find a small but lively town square that exudes a modernist charm. The church of San Bartolomé, with its intricate façade, is a highlight, and the town’s architecture—designed by Joan Rubió, a disciple of Gaudí—adds a whimsical, artistic vibe. We enjoyed sitting on a terrace overlooking the square, much like the reviewer Mia, who suggested a longer stop would be preferable for truly savoring the atmosphere.

While the tour doesn’t include extensive free time, you’ll get a quick glimpse of local life, with the chance to snap photos or grab a quick coffee. Be prepared that the overall pace is brisk, so don’t expect hours to wander through the streets.

The Tram to Port of Sóller

From the town, you’ll hop aboard a vintage wooden tram that’s been running between Sóller and its maritime port since the early 20th century. This part of the trip is genuinely picturesque, with the tram chugging along narrow streets lined with citrus trees, heading towards a bay hugged by mountains.

The Port of Sóller has a natural harbor with a significant maritime history, once a trading hub and pirate target. Today, it’s a lively spot with cafes, boats, and scenic views. The tram ride, which lasts about 20 to 30 minutes, is appreciated for its old-world charm, making you feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

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The Return Journey & Flexibility

Depending on the train schedule, your return might be by bus from Sóller to Palma, or vice versa. Several reviews mention the short visit durations, with some travelers wishing for more time in the port or town. For example, Gayle said, “Don’t go on this trip if you’re expecting time in Port of Sóller or Soller,” emphasizing that this experience is more about the ride than comprehensive sightseeing.

The Value and Practicalities

At $69, the trip offers a reasonably priced way to combine scenic train rides, historic trams, and charming towns in a half-day format. It’s especially good for those who appreciate transportation history and beautiful landscapes but less so for travelers seeking long explorations or full days in each location.

You’ll want to bring comfortable shoes, a hat, water, and your camera—the views are worth capturing. As the reviews note, timing is tight, and walking distances can be long, so prepare accordingly, especially if mobility is an issue.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who delights in scenic railways and vintage transportation, this tour will suit you perfectly. It’s ideal for those who want a snapshot of Mallorca’s natural beauty and small-town charm without the hassle of planning multiple transport connections.

However, if you’re after more time in Sóller or the port, or prefer a looser schedule, you might find the brief stops frustrating. This tour works best if you’re content with a highlight reel of Mallorca’s landscapes rather than an in-depth exploration.

Final Thoughts

For the price, this experience offers a delightful glimpse into Mallorca’s scenic and architectural charm. The vintage train and tram are genuine highlights, evoking a nostalgic feel that modern transportation can’t match. The views of orange groves, mountains, and the port are genuinely beautiful and worth seeing, even if the clock is a bit tight.

While some reviews point out the brief visits and timing constraints, the overall appeal lies in the unique mode of transport and authentic scenery. If you’re a sucker for historic railways, picturesque towns, and mountain vistas, this tour can be an enjoyable, if somewhat brisk, half-day adventure.

It’s a good choice for photo enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone who wants a relaxed ride through Mallorca’s countryside with a touch of local flavor. Just come prepared for a short visit and a lot of scenic beauty packed into a few hours.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
No, it’s not recommended for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as walking is involved and certain parts can be physically demanding.

How long is the train ride from Palma to Sóller?
The detailed duration isn’t specified, but the train journey itself covers a scenic route through mountains and orchards, with the entire tour lasting about 4 to 5 hours including stops.

What should I bring for the trip?
Comfortable shoes are essential, along with a sun hat, camera, sunscreen, and water. The weather can be hot and sunny, so preparedness is key.

Does the tour include meals or drinks?
No, meals and drinks are not part of the package, so consider bringing your own snacks and hydration.

Will I have enough time to explore Sóller and Port of Sóller?
Most reviews say the time is quite limited—around 20-25 minutes in each—but you’ll get a taste of both places. If more exploration is what you want, look for full-day options.

Can I book this tour with a flexible payment plan?
Yes, you can reserve now and pay later, which helps if your plans are not yet fixed.

In the end, this tour is a charming, scenic snapshot of Mallorca’s landscapes and historic transportation. For those who love trains, trams, and picturesque towns, it offers a memorable, if brisk, adventure into the island’s rural heart.

You can check availability for your dates here: