Mallorca: Sóller and Port of Sóller Train and Tram Tour

Travelers seeking to experience Mallorca’s visual beauty and historic charm often turn to guided tours that combine scenic transportation with local highlights. The Sóller and Port of Sóller Train and Tram Tour offers just that—a five-hour journey on a century-old train winding through mountainous landscapes, orange groves, and olive trees, culminating in the picturesque port town of Sóller.

This tour has a lot going for it: the chance to ride an iconic wooden train, enjoy a tram ride along a scenic harbor, and explore a modernist town with a charming square. It’s especially appealing for those eager to see a quintessential Mallorca landscape with minimal effort.

However, it’s important to note that this experience leans heavily on the train and tram rides themselves, meaning the time spent at each stop is quite limited. If you prefer longer explorations or detailed sightseeing, you might find this tour a bit rushed.

This tour suits travelers who want a quick, scenic taste of Mallorca’s beautiful valleys and harbor, especially those interested in historic train rides and authentic local scenery.

Key Points

• Authentic Railway Experience: Enjoy a historic wooden train journey through Mallorca’s Tramuntana mountains.
• Breathtaking Views: Admire orange groves, olive trees, tunnels, and steep mountain landscapes.
• Charming Town of Sóller: Explore a modernist town square, quiet streets, and architectural highlights like the church of San Bartolomé.
• Port of Sóller Tram Ride: Take a picturesque tram to Mallorca’s natural harbor, surrounded by mountains and with a rich maritime history.
• Limited Time in Destinations: Expect short stops; if you want to explore in depth, plan extra time elsewhere.
• Value for Scenic Enthusiasts: At $69, it’s a reasonable price for the experience, though the short durations in each location mean it’s best suited for quick scenic glimpses.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The Scenic Journey on the Sóller Train

The highlight of this tour is without doubt the train ride—a century-old, beautifully maintained wooden locomotive that chugs through the Sierra de Alfabia in the Tramuntana mountain range. We loved the way the train’s vintage charm transports you back in time, creating an authentic old-world atmosphere. The train’s route through the Valley of Sóller, amid orange groves and olive trees, is visually stunning, with tunnels and steep mountain slopes adding drama to the landscape.

While the train ride is approximately 25 minutes to Port de Sóller and then an additional 1-hour ride back through Soller, some reviews point out that the time in each location is quite limited. The short stops mean you won’t get a deep dive into either town, but rather a quick peek. As one traveler noted, “The time spent in Sóller and especially in Port de Sóller is really too short.”

Exploring Sóller Town

Arriving in Sóller, you’ll find a modernist town square that’s perfect for a quick break. The main square is surrounded by inviting cafes and terraces, with a backdrop of the church of San Bartolomé, a highlight in its own right. The church’s architecture is in the modernist style, designed by Joan Rubió, a disciple of Gaudí, making it a noteworthy sight for architecture lovers.

The guide provided insight into the town’s history, emphasizing how the railway helped break the village’s historical isolation. The brief 30-minute free time offers a chance to stroll around, take photos, or enjoy a quick snack, but don’t expect to explore every alley or visit local museums in this window.

Tram to Port de Sóller

The trams running from Sóller to the port are a charming highlight, especially for lovers of scenic, nostalgic transport. The tram ride takes roughly 25 minutes and offers views of the coast and surrounding mountains. Reviewers mention that it’s a “picturesque tram ride,” perfect for those who enjoy vintage transport or want to see the harbor from above.

Port de Sóller itself is a natural harbor flanked by mountains, with a small but lively waterfront. Many visitors appreciate its maritime history, noting that it used to be a trading hub and pirates once vied for control of this strategic harbor. There’s a certain tranquility here, and you might find the views of the surrounding peaks quite captivating.

The Return Journey and Overall Timing

The tour’s return is either by bus or train, depending on the schedule, making the experience flexible but also potentially variable in timing. The total duration of five hours includes pick-up, transportation, stops, and drop-off, but some reviews suggest that the overall experience can feel rushed.

Travelers should be aware that food and drinks are not included—so packing a snack and water is recommended, especially given the limited free time in each stop. The tour is also not suitable for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users, as it involves walking and boarding historic train cars.

Authenticity and Value

For $69, this experience delivers a lot of visual and cultural value. The train ride itself is a rare chance to hop onto a historical locomotive, and the scenic landscapes are genuinely breathtaking. While the short stop in Sóller can leave some wanting more, it’s perfect for travelers who prefer concise, picturesque excursions.

Authentic details shared by guides enrich the experience, such as the history of the Port of Sóller as a trading hub and pirate haunt, adding context to the scenic views.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking around town and waiting in some spots.
• Bring a camera to capture the stunning mountains, orange groves, and harbor views.
• Check the weather forecast—whether sunny or cloudy, the scenery looks great, but pack sunscreen and a hat if sunny.
• Pack water and snacks to keep energized during the brief stops.
• Be aware of the short duration at each stop and plan your photo opportunities accordingly.
• The tour is not suitable for those with mobility challenges, so plan accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This Mallorca tour offers a charming, picturesque way to see some of the island’s most iconic sights without the hassle of planning. The historic train ride, combined with the tram to Port de Sóller and a walk through the modernist town of Sóller, creates a balanced blend of nature, history, and local flavor.

It’s best suited for scenery lovers and those interested in vintage transport, who are happy with short visits and quick snapshots. If you’re after an in-depth exploration of Sóller or the port, or want more time in each spot, this might feel a little rushed. However, for a beautiful half-day escape that captures the essence of Mallorca’s mountains and seaside, it hits the spot.

The value is reasonable, especially considering the unique train experience, but manage your expectations about the brevity of each stop. It’s a wonderful way to tick off some postcard-worthy sights in a short period, especially if you’re short on time but want the experience of Mallorca’s scenic train routes.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
While the tour involves train and tram rides and walking, it’s generally family-friendly, though the short stops and quick pace may not suit very young children or those needing more extensive exploration.

Are meals included in the price?
No, meals and drinks are not included. You might want to bring snacks or plan to buy something in Sóller or the port.

Can I join the tour from anywhere in Mallorca?
The tour offers pick-up from multiple centrally located spots in Palma, making it convenient for most travelers staying nearby.

How long is the train ride?
The train journey to Port de Sóller takes about 25 minutes, and the journey back through Soller is about an hour.

What language options are available?
Guides speak English, Spanish, German, and French, so you can choose a tour in your preferred language.

Is there enough time to explore Sóller and Port de Sóller?
You’ll have roughly 30 minutes in Sóller and 25 minutes in Port de Sóller, which is enough for quick photos and a short walk, but not for in-depth sightseeing.

To sum it up, this tour combines Mallorca’s scenic mountain landscapes with a hint of its maritime history, perfect for travelers who love vintage trains and picturesque vistas. It’s a light, well-priced way to see two of Mallorca’s most charming spots, especially if you appreciate a quick, scenic ride over a full-day in-depth exploration. Plan accordingly, pack light, and enjoy this charming slice of Mallorca’s landscape.