Excursion to Sóller and Puerto de Sóller with train and tram

If you’re craving a taste of Mallorca’s natural beauty and old-world charm, the excursion to Sóller and Puerto de Sóller with train and tram rides offers a compelling blend of scenic views, cultural stops, and historic transport. While it’s not a perfect experience, it provides a snapshot of Mallorca’s rugged landscape and traditional towns, all within a manageable 5-hour window.

What we particularly like about this tour is the chance to travel on a century-old wooden train, which keeps its vintage aesthetic intact, giving you a real sense of traveling back in time. The tranquil tram ride from Sóller to Puerto de Sóller offers breathtaking views of the mountains and sea, making it a memorable journey. Plus, the stops in Soller allow for a relaxed exploration of a town celebrated for its modernist architecture and historical significance.

One potential drawback is the limited time at each stop, especially in Puerto de Sóller and Soller, which some travelers find leaves little opportunity to explore or relax. The tour’s pace can feel rushed, and some reviews point out organizational hiccups that might affect your experience. This tour suits those who appreciate scenic train rides and are comfortable with a medium-paced walk of about 700 meters, without mobility challenges.

This experience is ideal for visitors who want a quick, picturesque overview of Mallorca’s interior towns and natural landscapes without the need for a full-day commitment. It’s perfect if you’re fond of historic trains, charming villages, and stunning mountain vistas.

Good To Know

• Historic Transport: Travel on a vintage wooden train and a traditional tram, making for a charming nostalgic journey.
• Scenic Views: Expect incredible vistas of mountains, orange groves, forests, and the sea.
• Cultural Stops: Soller and Puerto de Sóller are rich in architecture and maritime history, perfect for a brief culture.
• Time Management: Be prepared for limited time at each destination, which might restrict sightseeing or dining options.
• Accessibility: Not suited for travelers with mobility difficulties due to the age of train stations and steps involved.
• Value: The price includes all transport, making this a convenient way to explore without extra costs for tickets.

The Itinerary in Detail

The Legendary Wooden Train from Palma to Sóller

This part of the journey is what many travelers find most enchanting. The century-old wooden train departs from Palma and winds through Mallorca’s rugged Sierra Tramuntana. The route is famous for its picturesque views—citrus groves, lush forests, and mountains carved by nature over centuries—making each moment visually rewarding.

Traveling on a train that retains its original design offers a unique sense of stepping back in time. The engine chugs along with a nostalgic charm, and the rocky tunnels and steep inclines add an element of adventure. The review from Anne_W mentions that the train ride itself is a highlight, describing it as “nice,” even if the overall experience was marred by organizational issues.

Puerto de Sóller: A Natural Harbor with Maritime Charm

The tram ride from Soller to Puerto de Sóller is a delightful highlight. It takes about an hour, during which travelers are treated to panoramic views of mountains hugging a picturesque harbor. Puerto de Sóller’s history as a former trading port adds a layer of intrigue, and the setting itself offers plenty of opportunities for photos, walks, or simply soaking in the scenery.

While some find the short time allocated for exploring the port limiting—just enough for a quick bathroom break—others, like reviewer David_C, suggest that having your own vehicle might allow a more leisurely visit.

Exploring Soller: The Cultural Heart of the Region

Back in Soller, the town’s main square invites visitors to sit on a terrace and admire the San Bartolomé Church and the Banco de Sóller, a modernist masterpiece by Joan Rubió. This town was historically a hub for orange trading and boasts a wealth of colonial architecture and grand manors.

This stop is an excellent opportunity for those interested in architecture and local history, even if the 1-hour visit might be too brief for a more in-depth exploration. Reviewer Diana_C describes her experience as rushed, highlighting the importance of managing expectations about time.

Transportation and Practical Details

The tour is priced at $67.99 per person, covering the vintage train, tram, and transport between stops. The duration is about 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity. It begins in Palma with a pickup option, making logistics straightforward. The tour’s inclusion of mobile tickets adds convenience, and the small group size (up to 55 travelers) helps maintain a more intimate atmosphere.

Since the train is over a century old, access steps are not adapted for those with reduced mobility, and travelers should be comfortable walking about 700 meters at a medium pace. The tour doesn’t include lunch, so planning for a snack or meal either before or after the tour is recommended.

Organizational Insights and Reviews

While the train and tram rides are widely appreciated, some reviewers have noted logistical issues. Anne_W mentions a disorganized pickup, with faulty audio equipment during the tour, which impacted her experience. The limited time at stops can also feel rushed, as pointed out by others, who suggest that having more time or an independent visit might be preferable.

Viviane, the tour guide, received mixed reviews. Some travelers found her helpful, while others, like Diana_C, felt her tone was hurried or unwelcoming. This highlights that, like many group tours, your experience can depend heavily on the guide’s approach.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This tour is best suited for history and scenery enthusiasts who enjoy vintage transportation and scenic landscapes. If you’re looking for a quick, picturesque escape into Mallorca’s mountains and charming towns, it ticks those boxes. However, if you prefer more leisurely stops or in-depth cultural experiences, you might find the short timeframes limiting.

It’s also suitable for travelers without mobility issues, given the walking involved and the age of the train stations. Budget-conscious visitors will appreciate the all-inclusive price, especially considering it offers a combined train, tram, and transportation experience.

The Sum Up

In essence, this tour provides a snapshot of Mallorca’s stunning landscapes and authentic towns on a nostalgic journey that’s both scenic and culturally enriching. The vintage train and charming tram ride are the highlights, offering a different perspective from typical bus or walking tours. While organizational issues and limited stop times are notable drawbacks, the overall experience’s visual appeal and historical charm make it worthwhile for many.

For adventurers who love scenic journeys, architecture fans, or those eager to explore Mallorca’s interior without a car, this tour offers good value. Just keep in mind the pace and the potential for a rushed experience—planning some extra time in Soller or Puerto de Sóller on your own could be a smart move.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup included in this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered from Palma, making it convenient to start your day without worrying about transportation.

How long does the whole tour last?
Approximately 5 hours, which includes train and tram rides and brief stops in Soller and Puerto de Sóller.

What is the main highlight of the tour?
Traveling on a vintage wooden train through Mallorca’s scenic mountains and countryside, which many find charming and visually stunning.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
No, due to the age of the train stations and steps involved, it’s not recommended for those with reduced mobility.

Are meals included?
No, lunch or other meals are not included, so plan accordingly.

What is the price and does it offer good value?
At $67.99 per person, it covers all transport and tickets, making it a reasonable choice for a scenic half-day experience.

How much time do I spend at each stop?
Expect around 1 hour in Soller and Puerto de Sóller, and 1 hour 30 minutes on the train journey. Some reviews mention this is quite limited.

Is the train ride comfortable?
While the train is charming and scenic, it is over 100 years old, with steps not suited for everyone, and some may find the seating basic.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, on average, this tour is booked 27 days ahead, especially during the popular summer months.

This Mallorca tour combines nostalgia, scenic beauty, and a taste of local culture in a compact package. While it’s not without its flaws, those looking for a picturesque half-day adventure on vintage rails will find plenty to enjoy.