The Port of Sóller is one of the most iconic spots on Mallorca’s northwest coast. Nestled in a natural horseshoe-shaped bay and protected by the foothills of the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, this former fishing port has been transformed into an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility, good taste, and a connection with the most authentic Mallorca.
Over the years, it has maintained its local character while incorporating a range of select accommodations such as the Jumeirah Port Sóller Hotel & Spa and the classic Hotel Eden Port de Sóller, all perfectly integrated into the coastal landscape.
Strolling along the seafront promenade, watching the boats come and go in the marina of Sóller or taking the historic tram up to the center of Sóller are all part of the pleasant routine of those who choose to stay here. In addition, its privileged location makes it an ideal base for exploring routes such as Sa Foradada or the old cobbled paths that climb up to Fornalutx by car or on foot.
The Port de Sóller is particularly attractive to visitors who already know Palma or Alcúdia and want to stay in a quieter area with a strong cultural identity. The search for authentic experiences, local cuisine, typical Mallorcan products, and direct access to Mallorcan nature make it an excellent choice for stays of several days.
Arriving by rental car: convenient access and unforgettable views
Traveling to the Port of Sóller by rental car allows you to enjoy one of the most scenic routes in all of Mallorca. This option is especially recommended if you have already visited the island on other occasions and want to move around freely, stop at viewpoints, or explore nearby villages such as Deià, Biniaraix, or Fornalutx.
From Palma, the journey takes approximately 35 minutes on the Ma-11, a modern road that crosses the valley until it reaches the famous Túnel de Sóller. This tunnel, more than three kilometers long, connects directly to the port and provides easy access even on the busiest days. The toll that was previously mandatory has been eliminated, so it is now a free road.
If you prefer a more scenic alternative, you can choose to climb the Coll de Sóller, the old winding road that ascends between terraced olive groves and offers panoramic views of the valley. This option is ideal if you feel like stopping to take photos or simply enjoy the drive, but you should consider the difficulty and length of the route.
Once at the port, you will find several parking spaces. The most central is located next to the Club Náutico de Sóller, although it is essential to arrive early, especially between April and October. There are also parking areas in the upper part of the port, well connected to the promenade by ramps and stairs.
With a rental car, you can also go on excursions at your own pace, such as the circular route around the Mirador de Ses Barques, combined with lunch at a traditional “possessió” or a visit to an olive farm where you can taste extra virgin olive oil from the area.
This direct access from Palma and its protected natural environment make Port de Sóller an ideal destination for those who want to combine the convenience of private transport with the authenticity of rural and maritime Mallorca.
Coastal walks and terraces with local flavor in the Port of Sóller
The Port of Sóller invites you to explore it at your leisure. Its wide, peaceful promenade runs along the bay from Playa d’en Repic to the fishing pier, offering views of the sea, the tram, and the hills that frame the coast. It is the perfect place to start the day with a morning stroll or to end the day at sunset with a glass of local wine facing the sea.
The Paseo de sa Torre Picada is one of the most recommended stretches for walking. It starts at the western end of the port and climbs gently to a promontory where the old 17th-century watchtower stands, from which possible pirate attacks were once spotted. The trail is well marked and suitable even for those with no mountain experience. The views from the top take in the entire bay and the natural entrance to the port, with its deep blue waters and boats coming and going from the marina.
Along the main promenade you will find a succession of cafés, artisan ice cream parlors, and terraces facing the sea, ideal for stopping at any time of day. If you want to try local flavors, I recommend sitting down at Ca’n Ribes or Es Canyís, where you can order a glass of DO Binissalem wine, Mallorcan olives, and pa amb oli with homemade cold cuts while watching the orange tram come and go.
In the old pier area, the atmosphere changes slightly: here you can breathe in the leisurely pace of the local fishermen, with traditional boats and nets hanging in the sun. It’s a good place to take authentic photographs or simply sit on a stone bench and watch the world go by.
Also worth a visit is the marina of Sóller, where modern boats coexist with small restored llaüts. Some companies offer sunset sailing trips, ideal for those seeking a serene and exclusive experience, sailing along the northwest coast to enclaves such as Sa Calobra or Cala Tuent.
Walking around the Port de Sóller is not only a relaxing exercise, but also a way to connect with the daily life of the island, amid the aromas of toasted bread, the salty breeze, and the murmur of the tram as it silently crosses the promenade.
Please note during high season: road closures and tips to avoid them
During the busiest tourist months (especially between July and September, as well as during Easter week and national holidays), road access to the Port of Sóller and the town of Sóller itself may be affected by traffic delays and occasional restrictions due to high concentrations of vehicles, especially on sunny days and public holidays.
Why do traffic jams occur?
The Sóller valley is nestled between mountains, with limited access via the Ma-11 road through the tunnel and the narrower and more winding Coll de Sóller. Although the tunnel has improved traffic flow, it remains a natural bottleneck, especially when many visitors arrive at the same time to spend the day or enjoy excursions.
In addition, parking spaces in the port and the village are limited, which causes traffic jams when they are full, resulting in queues of vehicles trying to enter without success. On occasions, the local police temporarily close the access to avoid gridlock, diverting traffic or urging drivers to find alternatives.
Tips to avoid access problems
- Get there early: If you plan to visit the port by car, it is best to arrive before 10:00 a.m. After that time, traffic begins to intensify, especially on weekends and holidays.
- Avoid rush hour: The worst traffic jams occur between 11:00 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., and again from 5:00 p.m. onwards, when many people return from the coast.
- Use public transportation: Consider leaving your car in Palma or Bunyola and taking the Sóller train or the intercity bus (line 204), which runs more frequently during high season.
- Stay in the area: If you choose to stay in Puerto de Sóller, you will avoid these traffic jams and can get around on foot or by tram. This is the most convenient option for those who value peace and quiet and want to explore the area without depending on traffic.
- Check traffic conditions: Before leaving, check Google Maps or es for real-time traffic incidents or delays.
- Book a restaurant or parking in advance: Some hotels and restaurants offer private parking spaces, available only with a reservation. Checking in advance can save you a lot of time.
Local recommendation
The valley’s residents often say that “the early bird catches the worm in Sóller.” Following their example will allow you to arrive calmly, find parking, have breakfast on the seafront promenade, and enjoy the port without any hassle. What’s more, the light is softer in the early morning, the atmosphere is quieter, and the hiking trails are cooler.
This is especially important for those traveling by rental car and wanting to make the most of their day. Good planning ensures a smooth experience, in keeping with the relaxed and authentic spirit of the Port of Sóller.
Sleep by the sea: hotels with Mallorcan character
Port de Sóller offers a very different accommodation experience from that of the more developed coastal areas. Here you won’t find large tourist complexes or skyscrapers: the hotels blend into the landscape, with low-rise buildings, terraces facing the sea and a clear focus on quiet comfort, Mediterranean style and proximity to local life.
One of the most renowned options is the Jumeirah Port Sóller Hotel & Spa, located on a cliff with open views of the sea and mountains. This five-star hotel, despite its luxury, has managed to respect the natural environment and offer discreet service, with reinterpreted Mallorcan cuisine, a spa using local products, and one of the best views of the entire northwest coast of Mallorca.
For those looking for a more informal but equally attentive stay, the Hotel Espléndido combines tradition and Scandinavian design in a renovated historic building opposite Playa d’en Repic. Its rooms with terraces offer direct views of the bay, and the atmosphere is relaxed, with a loyal clientele who return every season.
Also noteworthy are the locally run family hotels, such as the Hotel Marina and the Hotel Los Geranios, located just a few steps from the sea and offering a friendly service that makes guests feel part of the port. These accommodations are ideal for those who value simple, well-attended service, a homemade breakfast, and immediate access to the beach.
If you prefer an even quieter setting, there are tourist houses and apartments with terraces overlooking the seafront, perfect for longer stays or for those who want to cook at home after a visit to the market in Sóller. Some buildings retain their modernist architecture, with renovated interiors but maintaining their original character.
At the opposite end of the spectrum, just a five-minute drive from the port, you will find agritourism establishments and traditional fincas in the Sóller valley, surrounded by olive and lemon trees and rural paths. Staying in a finca of this type allows you to enjoy absolute peace and views of the Tramuntana mountains, with breakfasts made with local products and quick access to the tram or the port.
Sleeping in Puerto de Sóller is a natural extension of the experience offered by this corner of the island: nature, sea, Mallorcan character, and a silence that accompanies without imposing itself. Whether you are looking for discreet luxury, family tradition, or rural authenticity, here you will find accommodation that suits your way of traveling.
Mallorcan cuisine with a view: restaurants to savor the island
If there is one thing that defines the Port of Sóller, it is its ability to offer authentic cuisine in privileged settings. Eating here is not simply a necessity: it is an essential part of the experience. Whether on a terrace overlooking the bay, in an old fisherman’s house converted into a restaurant, or in the dining rooms of a charming hotel, you will always find dishes that honor local produce and Mallorcan tradition.
One of the best places to try this is Restaurant Es Canyís, which has been run by the same family for generations. Located next to Playa d’en Repic, it combines fresh fish from the port with extra virgin olive oil produced in the Sóller valley. Try the cap roig a la plancha (grilled red snapper), the fritura mallorquina (Mallorcan fried fish) or a Sóller orange salad with cured cod, a local classic.
Another highly recommended place is Ca’n Ribes, which stands out for its creative cuisine based on traditional recipes. Here, pa amb oli is served with artisan cured meats and brown bread, and the roast suckling lamb is seasoned with herbs picked in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains. Its terrace overlooking the port is ideal for a long lunch or dinner at dusk.
Visitors who appreciate a more refined experience will find the Jumeirah Port Sóller Hotel & Spa a signature restaurant with a menu inspired by the island’s recipes. From its elevated terrace, the views stretch to the coast and cliffs, accompanied by a selection of wines from the DO Pla i Llevant and award-winning oils from local cooperatives. The menu includes vegetarian and gluten-free options, without losing focus on Mallorcan ingredients.
For a more informal lunch or a typical snack, Fet a Sóller offers artisan products such as jams, cold meats, cheeses, and local sweets. They also have a small café with Sóller orange ice cream, made without preservatives, which you can enjoy while strolling around the port.
Don’t forget to book a table if you visit on weekends or during high season. The restaurants by the sea and those most highly rated by the locals tend to fill up in advance, especially at sunset, when the port is bathed in golden hues and the cuisine becomes a celebration of the surroundings and flavor.
Es Canyís
📍 Platja d’en Repic, s/n, 07108 Port de Sóller, Illes Balears
📞 +34 971 63 01 37
Traditional Mallorcan cuisine with fresh fish, local olive oil, and locally sourced products. Sea views.
Ca’n Ribes
📍 Passeig de la Platja, 3, 07108 Port de Sóller, Illes Balears
📞 +34 971 63 01 48
Pa amb oli, rice dishes, and grilled meats. Family atmosphere. Terrace on the seafront promenade.
Kingfisher Restaurant
📍 Carrer Santa Apol·lònia, 4, 07108 Port de Sóller, Illes Balears
📞 +34 971 63 01 64
Specializing in seafood and fresh fish of the day. Very popular with German and British visitors.
Randemar
📍 Carrer Marina, 8, 07108 Port de Sóller, Illes Balears
📞 +34 971 63 01 39
Mediterranean cuisine with a modern twist. Terrace overlooking the port. Elegant décor.
Jumeirah Port Soller – Cap Roig Brasserie
📍 Jumeirah Port Soller Hotel & Spa, Carrer Belgica, s/n, 07108 Port de Sóller
🌐 jumeirah.com
📞 +34 971 63 85 88
Haute cuisine with local products. Elaborate menu, ideal for special occasions. Panoramic views.
Walking tours: routes to discover the soul of the Tramuntana
If you are staying in Puerto de Sóller or have arrived by rental car to spend the day, one of the biggest attractions within easy reach are the hiking trails that start or end here, winding their way through olive groves, holm oak forests, and ancient stone roads that once connected the mountain villages.
These excursions are perfect for middle-aged German visitors looking for an active cultural experience: well-marked trails, spectacular landscapes, and direct contact with rural and traditional Mallorca. Here are some of the most recommended ones:
Camí de Sa Figuera
📍 Departure from the tram roundabout, towards Biniaraix
Duration: 2 hours (circular)
Level: Easy
Description: This route skirts orange groves and olive groves, with dry stone walls and views over the Sóller valley. Ideal for a gentle morning, with stops to photograph the traditional agricultural landscape.
Sa Foradada Route
📍 Access from the Son Marroig viewpoint (15 minutes by car from the port)
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes one way
Level: Medium
Description: A cobbled path descends to the sea, where the iconic hole-ridden islet that gives the place its name awaits you. There is a beach bar in season and you can swim. The return is uphill, but the effort is rewarded with every view of the Mediterranean.
Ses Barques Viewpoint – Muleta Refuge
📍 Departure from the viewpoint (access by car from Sóller, 10 min)
Duration: 2 hours one way
Level: Medium
Description: Panoramic trail that runs along old charcoal burners’ paths and centuries-old olive groves. When you reach the Muleta refuge, you can have a drink and enjoy an open view of the sea. You can return to the port on foot or by taxi.
Camí des Rost (descent on foot from the Ses Barques viewpoint to the port)
📍 Start at the viewpoint
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes (descent)
Level: Medium
Description: A cobbled path, very popular with hikers who only want to do the descent. It passes through cultivated terraces and old Mallorcan farmhouses. Good footwear is recommended as it can be slippery.
Barranc de Biniaraix
📍 Start in the village of Biniaraix (10 min by car)
Duration: 3–4 hours round trip
Level: Demanding
Description: One of the most iconic routes in the Tramuntana mountains, with over a thousand dry stone steps. It crosses a spectacular gorge with torrents and ancient bridges. Highly rated by experienced hikers.
Tips for enjoying the route safely
- Always bring water, a hat, and sunscreen, especially from April to October.
- Wear hiking boots or sneakers with good soles, as many sections are rocky.
- Check the local weather forecast (you can search for “wetter Port de Sóller” online) before setting out.
- Download maps or GPS tracks in advance: coverage is not always reliable in high areas.
- If you don’t want to walk alone, there are local guides who organize personalized excursions in German, including cultural interpretation and gastronomic stops.
These routes not only bring you closer to the natural landscape of Mallorca, but also allow you to understand its agricultural culture, popular architecture, and historical relationship with the mountainous environment. An ideal experience for those seeking to discover Mallorca beyond the beaches.
Main attractions in Puerto de Sóller and the surrounding area
In addition to its relaxed atmosphere and privileged natural setting, Puerto de Sóller offers several cultural and scenic attractions that will enrich your stay, whether you are staying for several days or visiting on an excursion from other parts of the island. These are the most important attractions for those who want to discover the essence of the place:
Sóller Tram
Opened in 1913, this tram connects the port with the town of Sóller on a 5-kilometer route that passes through citrus orchards, cobbled streets, and stone bridges. The orange tram, with its wooden carriages, retains its original charm and is ideal for enjoying the scenery at a leisurely pace. You can get on at the central stop in the port and get off at the Plaza de la Constitución in Sóller, right in front of the church.
📍 Port of Sóller – Sóller (5 km route)
🌐 trendesoller.com
🚋 Historic wooden tram in operation since 1913. Ideal for connecting the port and the town in a picturesque way.
Sóller Railway
If you want to extend the experience, the Sóller train, with carriages from the early 20th century, connects Palma with Sóller on a 27-kilometer journey. Although it does not reach the port, you can take the tram from Sóller station to complete the journey. The route passes through 13 tunnels and several viaducts, with views of the valley and the mountains.
📍 Palma – Sóller (does not go directly to the port)
🌐 trendesoller.com
🚂 Centenary train departing from Palma. It crosses the Serra de Tramuntana mountains and connects with the tram to the port.
Sea Museum
Located in a former 17th-century fisherman’s house in an elevated position above the port, this museum offers an insight into the local maritime history: traditional fishing, citrus trade by sea, nautical tools, and boats. The restored stone building and its terrace-viewpoint are well worth a visit.
📍 Camí del Museu, s/n, 07108 Port de Sóller
🌐 ajsoller.net/museu-de-la-mar
🏛 Museum dedicated to the fishing and maritime tradition of the Sóller valley, housed in a former fisherman’s house.
Sóller Botanical Garden
Located in the village, just 10 minutes by tram from the port, this garden brings together native Balearic flora, species endemic to the Mediterranean basin, and subtropical plants. It can be visited alongside the Balearic Museum of Natural Sciences, allowing for a botanical and ecological immersion that is highly appreciated by nature lovers.
📍 Ctra. Palma – Port de Sóller km 30.5, 07100 Sóller
🌿 Natural space with Balearic and Mediterranean flora, in collaboration with the Balearic Museum of Natural Sciences.
Cap Gros Lighthouse
Dominating the entrance to the port from the western cliff, the Cap Gros Lighthouse is an excellent vantage point for viewing the bay from above. It can be reached on foot via a footpath or by car, and is especially recommended at sunset. The views stretch from the breakwater to the skyline of the hotels in the port.
📍 Access from Calle Santa Catalina Thomas, 07108 Port de Sóller
🌐 General information: visitdemallorca.com
🌅 Panoramic viewpoint over the bay. Access on foot or by car. The interior cannot be visited.
Ses Barques Viewpoint
Just a 10-minute drive from the port, this viewpoint offers an unobstructed view of the Sóller valley and the sea. It is the starting point for hiking trails and a popular place to stop for coffee and potato cake. Ideal for those who want to capture a panoramic photograph of the area.
📍 Ma-10, towards Lluc, turn off from Sóller
🌐 Information: balearsnatura.com
📷 Natural viewpoint with café, views of the Sóller valley and starting point for walking routes.
Town of Sóller
Although not in the port itself, the village of Sóller is an integral part of the experience. In addition to the famous tram and local market (Tuesdays and Saturdays), it is notable for its modernist architecture (influenced by emigrants who returned from France), the church of Sant Bartomeu, and traditional cafés such as Ca’n Mico and Sa Fàbrica de Gelats.
📍 Historic center of Sóller, connected by tram
🏘 Main square, modernist architecture, local market, traditional ice cream parlors, and artisan shops.
Webcams and digital resources
Before setting off or to plan your visit, you can check out the Port de Sóller webcam, available on sites such as portdesollerwebcam.com. You can also search Google for “Webbkamera Port de Sóller” for an up-to-date picture of the weather and how busy it is.
These attractions allow you to combine peaceful days with moments of cultural discovery, always with the sea and mountains as a backdrop.
Culture and traditions: experience the real Sóller
Staying in Port de Sóller or spending a few days in the area is also an opportunity to connect with the cultural identity of this part of the island, where traditions are still alive and integrated into everyday life.
Unlike other more touristy spots, here visitors can immerse themselves naturally in a Mallorca that has retained its rural and seafaring character, especially if their stay coincides with a local festival or they decide to explore the town of Sóller and its surroundings.
Orange Fair (Fira de la Taronja)
Mid-May
This fair celebrates the valley’s most emblematic product: the Sóller orange, grown in the mountains and exported for centuries. For a week, local restaurants and bakeries prepare special dishes based on citrus fruits. There are street markets, traditional music, tastings, and cooking workshops. It’s an excellent time to discover the artisan preserves of “Fet a Sóller” or buy local jams, liqueurs, and oils.
Procession of the Mare de Déu del Carme
July 16
The Virgin of Carmen, patron saint of fishermen, is honored every summer with a procession from the port church to the sea, where the image is placed on a boat and an emotional ceremony is held in the bay. Boats are decorated, sirens sound, and flowers are thrown into the sea in memory of deceased sailors. It is one of the most beloved festivals of the local population and an example of the deep bond between Sóller and the Mediterranean.
Traditional music and dance
During the summer and on special dates, the town square hosts performances by collas de xeremiers (Mallorcan bagpipers) and ball de bot groups, where couples dressed in regional costumes perform ancestral dances such as the bolero, the jota, and the fandango. On market Sundays and July evenings, open-air sessions are usually organized, open to residents and visitors alike.
Sóller Market
Tuesday and Saturday mornings
Located in the Plaza de la Constitución, this is an essential stop to discover local products: fruit and vegetables from the valley, brown bread, trencades olives, sobrasada, sheep’s cheese, homemade pastries, and organic products. At the local craft stalls, you will find traditional ceramics, palm baskets, and Mallorcan fabrics with the characteristic “llengües” design.
Architecture and modernist heritage
The center of the town of Sóller is home to unique examples of Mallorcan modernism, the result of the return of emigrants who made their fortune in France and Switzerland. Highlights include the façade of the church of Sant Bartomeu, designed by Gaudí’s disciple Joan Rubió, and the Banca de Sóller, with its floral ornamentation and wrought ironwork. This style contrasts with the rural stone houses of the port and creates a visual identity that is unique on the island.
Practical tips for the discerning visitor
Whether you are coming for a day trip from your accommodation in the center of the island or have decided to stay in the Port de Sóller for several nights, a few practical details can make all the difference to your experience. Here you will find clear and up-to-date recommendations to help you enjoy your stay to the full, in comfort and without any unexpected surprises.
When is the best time to visit the Port de Sóller?
The months from April to June and from September to mid-October offer the ideal balance between mild weather, moderate crowds, and local authenticity. Summer (July and August) is livelier, but also hotter and busier. If you’re interested in popular festivals or seasonal cuisine, May and July are particularly rich in cultural events.
How can I get to Port de Sóller without any hassle?
If you are driving from Palma, take the Ma-11 road to the Túnel de Sóller, which is free and direct. If you prefer a scenic route and don’t mind spending a little more time, take the Coll de Sóller, with its spectacular curves and views. Bear in mind that on weekends and during high season, it is best to leave early to avoid traffic on the road to the port.
Where to park in Puerto de Sóller?
There are several free parking areas next to the Yacht Club, although there are few spaces. If you arrive before 10:00 a.m. or after 6:00 p.m., it is easier to find a space. There are also paid parking areas (ORA) in the upper part of the port, with reasonable hourly rates. If you are staying for several days, ask your hotel about agreements with private car parks or reserved areas.
What clothes and shoes should I wear in Puerto de Sóller?
For mild or warm months, light clothing, a hat, sunglasses, and comfortable shoes for walking will suffice. If you plan to go hiking, be sure to wear shoes with good traction or hiking boots, as many trails are rocky or compacted dirt.
Where can I find local products?
The Fet a Sóller shop in the port is a good place to pick up extra virgin olive oil, preserved citrus fruits, jams, and traditional liqueurs. For more variety, the Sóller market (Tuesdays and Saturdays) offers fruit, cold cuts, pastries, honey, cheese, and handmade basketry. Some farms allow visits with tastings, especially if you book in advance.
Are cards accepted everywhere?
In most restaurants, hotels, and shops, yes, but not at all market stalls or in some automatic car parks. It is always advisable to carry some cash (€20–50), especially for small expenses such as coffee, souvenirs, or the local bakery.
What if I want to get around without a car?
You can take the Sóller tram from the port to the town in about 15 minutes. From there, there are taxis and buses to Deià, Valldemossa, and Palma. If you’re interested in excursions or visits without worrying about parking, consider leaving your car at the hotel and getting around on foot or by public transport.
Book in advance
If your visit coincides with the high season (Easter, July, August, or long weekends), it is essential to book accommodation and restaurants in advance. The most popular places, such as Es Canyís or Ca’n Ribes, are usually fully booked for dinner several days in advance.
