Mallorca Island Tour with Boat, Train, Tram and Bus

If you’re planning a trip to Mallorca and want to see the island’s highlights without feeling rushed or overwhelmed, a well-organized day trip like this might be just what you’re after. This particular tour, run by Nofrills Excursions, promises a full day exploring Mallorca’s scenic north-west corner, combining mountain vistas, historic sites, and seaside views—all in one tightly-packed itinerary.

What I find appealing about this experience is how it balances sightseeing with comfort—not cramming too many stops into one day, but rather focusing on quality and local insights. The guided nature of the tour and the variety of transportation modes—boat, train, tram, and bus—make it feel like a genuine Mallorca adventure rather than just a sightseeing bus tour.

A potential snag? The day’s packed schedule means you’ll want to keep an eye on time, especially if you want to fully enjoy each stop. The tour is ideal for those who love a mix of landscapes, local culture, and a bit of adventure, but if you prefer a more relaxed pace or are traveling with very young kids, this might feel a bit intense.

All in all, this tour seems best suited for travelers who want to make the most out of a single day and are comfortable with a busy itinerary. If you’re after an energetic, comprehensive taste of Mallorca’s north-west, this could be a great pick.

Key Points

• Diverse Transportation: Combines bus, boat, train, and tram for a full experience.
• Expert Guides: Local guides offer insightful commentary, enhancing the visit.
• Less Crowded Days: Planned on days with fewer visitors for a more relaxed atmosphere.
• Varied Stops: From historic monasteries to stunning beaches, the itinerary is well-rounded.
• Value for Money: At $112, it covers many experiences, including transportation, guides, and tickets.
• Time Management: The schedule is tight, so be prepared for a lively day.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting Out in Palma

The day begins at 9:30 AM from Palma’s Varadero. The air-conditioned coach makes for a comfortable start as you head straight into the Tramuntana Mountains, a UNESCO-listed region known for its dramatic landscape. Your guide will set the tone for the day, offering insights into what you’ll see and do, making the long drive feel engaging instead of tiresome.

Lluc Monastery Stop

Around 10:40 AM, you arrive at Lluc, a highlight of the trip. With 40 minutes to explore, you can stroll through the monastery complex, take photos, or simply soak in the peaceful mountain surroundings. Several reviews mention this stop as a favorite, with one traveler noting how the tour’s choice to include Lluc instead of a commercial stop (like a leather factory) shows the focus on authentic experiences. The timing allows for a relaxed visit, giving you a taste of Mallorca’s spiritual and scenic charm.

Mountain Road to Sa Calobra

Back on the bus, your driver will navigate the famous “snake road” down to Sa Calobra. This winding route is a highlight in itself, offering plenty of opportunities for photo stops and oohs and aahs at the breathtaking views. The journey is smooth and expertly handled, according to reviews, making the drive as memorable as the destination.

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Sa Calobra and Torrent de Pareis

Once at Sa Calobra, you’ll have about 1.5 hours to explore. This area is one of Mallorca’s most iconic spots—photogenic cliffs, a winding corridor through rocks leading to the beach, and the Torrent de Pareis Gorge. You can walk to the beach, take in the scenery, or snap some great photos of the rocky formations.

Many travelers love this stop, with one reviewer describing it as “unbelievable.” However, some mentioned that the time could be a bit longer, especially to fully enjoy the Torrent de Pareis. Still, this stop offers an excellent balance of sightseeing and downtime.

Boat Ride to Puerto de Soller

Next, you hop on a boat from Sa Calobra to Puerto de Soller, a trip of around 45 minutes. The breeze, the mountain views from the sea, and the relaxed pace make this part especially enjoyable. As one reviewer put it, “you’ll feel the Mediterranean breeze on your face,” which adds a sense of refreshing adventure. The boat trip is often highlighted as one of the best features of the day.

Tram and Soller Town

Arriving at Puerto de Soller, you get on the historic tram that crosses the harbor and then climbs into the orange and lemon groves towards Soller. You’ll have about 40 minutes to explore the town, with highlights like the baroque-gothic church, local art, and a chance to wander the charming streets. Several reviews praise the guide for providing just enough time here, though some mention it feels a little rushed—so if you love exploring towns thoroughly, be prepared for a quick visit.

Soller Vintage Train Ride

Perhaps the most memorable part of this tour is riding the vintage wooden train from Soller to Palma. Built in 1912, this train winds through picturesque valleys, tunnels, and mountain scenery in an experience many consider a bucket-list moment. The journey lasts about 50 minutes, and you’ll be traveling on a piece of history. It’s a relaxing, beautiful ride that offers a different perspective of the island’s landscape.

Return to Palma

After the train ride, your original coach will meet you at a designated spot near Palma, making the return comfortable and straightforward. The whole day wraps up around 6:00 PM, leaving you with a full set of memories and photos from an action-packed day.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The package is quite comprehensive for the price of $112. It covers all transportation modes (coach, boat, train, tram), guides, and entry tickets to major sites like Lluc Monastery and the vintage train ride. It also includes travel insurance, so you’re covered should anything unexpected happen.

What’s not included? As expected, lunch and drinks, so plan ahead for a meal during the free time at Sa Calobra or Soller. The tour prides itself on avoiding commercial stops—no leather factories or tourist trap shops here—which is a relief for those tired of the usual touristy gimmicks.

Timing and Pacing

The itinerary is quite full, with stops typically lasting between 40 minutes to an hour and a half. This means you’ll get a taste of many different sites but not an exhaustive deep dive into each. The advantage is that you see the highlights without feeling like you’re rushing, but the downside is that some reviews note the short time in Soller and the Torrent de Pareis could be longer for full enjoyment.

Suitability

This tour is ideal for active travelers who enjoy a structured day with plenty of varied scenery. It’s perfect if you love mountain drives, historic towns, and a bit of boat time. However, if you’re looking for a slower, more relaxed day or traveling with very young children, you might find the pace a bit hectic.

Authentic Feedback from Travelers

Multiple reviews mention the guides’ knowledge and friendly approach. One says, “Antonia was great. Many info, but not exhausting,” which highlights how well the guides balance storytelling and pacing. The boat ride gets rave reviews too, with travelers describing it as “breathhtaking” and “a highlight of the trip.”

Some negatives are worth noting. For instance, one traveler pointed out the challenge of finding the correct bus among several at the meeting point, so arriving early and attentive is advisable. Another reviewer mentioned that the bus was covered in foil, which blocked views and photo opportunities—something to keep in mind if photography is your priority.

The Sum Up

This Mallorca Island Tour with Boat, Train, Tram, and Bus offers a well-rounded, exciting day for those eager to see the island’s best bits in one go. The mix of mountain vistas, historic sites, seaside charm, and vintage train travel makes for a memorable adventure without sacrificing comfort. The tour’s focus on authentic experiences and expert guides genuinely elevates it above many generic sightseeing options.

If you’re someone who enjoys an active, diverse day out—especially on days with fewer crowds—this tour is likely to satisfy. It’s especially suitable for travelers who want to combine scenic beauty with cultural highlights, all wrapped up in a manageable schedule. Just be prepared for a busy day, and remember to bring your camera and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

How early should I arrive at the meeting point?
It’s best to arrive a bit earlier than the 9:30 AM departure time to find the bus easily, especially since some recent reviews mention the challenge of locating the correct bus among several.

Is lunch included in the tour?
No, lunch and drinks are not included. You’ll have some free time at Sa Calobra to find a place to eat, so bringing snacks or planning a meal is a good idea.

What should I bring for the day?
Bring your camera, plenty of water, sun protection, comfortable walking shoes, and a light jacket if you tend to get chilly.

Are the stops suitable for taking photos?
Absolutely. The scenic drives, mountain views, and coastal spots are very photogenic, especially from the boat and train.

Is this tour good for those who dislike rushing?
It is a full schedule, so if you prefer a very relaxed pace and plenty of time at each stop, this might feel a bit fast. However, the itinerary is designed to cover many highlights efficiently.

Can I participate if I’m traveling alone?
Yes, the tour is suitable for solo travelers. You’ll join a group, but it’s a popular, well-organized experience that’s suitable for individuals.

What languages are the guides available in?
Guides are available in German, English, Spanish, Italian, and French, providing flexibility for international travelers.

In the end, this tour offers a lively, well-structured way to see Mallorca’s north-western beauty, especially if you value guided insights and diverse transportation. It’s a good choice for those wanting a snapshot of Mallorca’s best, with the added bonus of fewer crowds.

You can check availability for your dates here: