Soller

Sóller

A citrus-growing valley town connected to Palma by a vintage wooden train, with elegant Modernista architecture. Its nearby port and tram ride to the sea make it a beloved Mallorca excursion.

Things to do

• Ride the vintage wooden train from Palma — The 1912 Ferrocarril de Sóller winds through tunnels and orange groves in the Tramuntana mountains on original wooden carriages.
• Take the antique tram to Port de Sóller — A rattling open-sided tram trundles from town to the seaside port along orange orchards and the coast.
• Admire Sant Bartomeu Church — This parish church's striking Modernista facade was designed by Joan Rubió, a disciple of Gaudí.
• Visit Can Prunera Modernista Museum — A restored Art Nouveau mansion showcasing period architecture alongside a collection of modern art.
• Stroll the harbor at Port de Sóller — This horseshoe-shaped bay offers a scenic promenade, swimming spots, and boat trips along the coast.
• Hike the Barranc de Biniaraix — A classic cobbled mule path climbs through a dramatic gorge into the Tramuntana mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage range.
• Explore the Jardí Botànic de Sóller — This botanical garden preserves native Mallorcan and Balearic plant species in a peaceful valley setting.
• Day trip to Fornalutx — Just a short drive away, this honey-stone village is often called one of Spain's prettiest, with steep lanes and mountain views.

Food to try

• Fresh orange juice from the plaza stalls — Sóller's fertile valley is famous for its citrus, and vendors squeeze juice from local oranges right in the main square.
• Ensaïmada — This spiral pastry dusted with powdered sugar is a Mallorcan classic, sometimes filled with local orange or pumpkin cream.
• Gelat de taronja — Orange-flavored ice cream or sorbet made with fruit from the surrounding groves is a local specialty.
• Sobrassada amb mel — Cured, spreadable pork sausage seasoned with paprika, traditionally served with honey and bread.
• Caldereta de llagosta — A rich lobster stew found at port restaurants, a splurge-worthy taste of Mallorcan seafood tradition.
• Pa amb oli — Rustic bread rubbed with tomato and drizzled with olive oil, often topped with local cheese or cured ham.

Local customs & good to know

• Book train tickets in advance — The historic Palma-Sóller train is popular with tourists and midday departures often sell out in high season.
• Time your visit for Saturday market day — The main square and surrounding streets fill with produce, crafts, and local goods every Saturday morning.
• Expect a midday lull — Many small shops close for a few hours in the early afternoon in keeping with traditional siesta hours.
• Catch the Fira de Sa Fira in May — This agricultural fair celebrates the valley's citrus heritage with markets, food stalls, and local produce.