Palma: Tramuntana Full-Day Tour with Sóller Train and Lunch

If you’re thinking about exploring Mallorca beyond the beaches, this full-day Tramuntana tour offers a fantastic way to see some of the island’s most breathtaking landscapes and charming towns. It combines a historic train ride, scenic drives, and leisurely explorations — all guided by knowledgeable locals.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances cultural sights with beautiful scenery. Plus, the included lunch of tapas adds a tasty touch that makes the experience well-rounded. On the flip side, the tour involves quite a bit of winding mountain roads and a busy schedule, so if you’re prone to motion sickness or prefer more relaxed pacing, you’ll want to prepare accordingly.

This experience is perfect for those who want a comprehensive day out with a good mix of sightseeing, history, and food — especially if you’re short on time but want to see Mallorca’s most spectacular spots. Families, couples, and anyone with a curiosity for local culture and scenic landscapes will find plenty to enjoy here.

Key Points

• A balanced mix of train, coach, tram, and walking experiences for a well-rounded day.
• Impressive mountain views and scenic coastal stretches along the way.
• Knowledgeable guides who share insights into Mallorca’s culture and landscape.
• Tasty tapas lunch, with options for non-alcoholic drinks, included in the price.
• Limited group size (up to 8), ensuring personalized attention.
• Long, but rewarding day — plan for around 8 hours of activity.

This tour offers a well-structured journey through some of Mallorca’s most iconic sights, all wrapped into a manageable 8-hour window. It’s designed for travelers who want to get a taste of Mallorca’s natural beauty, history, and local flavors without the hassle of self-driving.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Historic Railway Ride: “Red Lightning”

The day kicks off at the Palma train station, where your guide will meet you in front of the “Tren de Soller” station. Instead of queuing for tickets, you’ll have pre-arranged tickets for the historic train ride — affectionately known as the “Red Lightning”. This train has been running for over 100 years, and it’s a real treat for train enthusiasts or history buffs.

You’ll spend approximately 75 minutes traveling through plains dotted with almond, fig, and orange trees, passing lush green fields, grazing sheep, and crossing tunnels. The train route offers impressive views of the landscape, even if some travelers mention the scenery is somewhat limited during the plains section. Once you hit the mountains, the views start to open up dramatically.

Many reviews highlight this part of the journey as a highlight. “Loved the train,” one reviewer said, “it’s a great way to see the rural beauty of Mallorca without driving.” The train winds down picturesque hairpin bends as it heads towards Soller, offering a nostalgic and scenic ride that sets a relaxed, charming tone for the day.

Exploring Soller

Upon arrival in Soller, you have the option to take the historic tram (payable on the day, €10) from the station to Port de Sóller. The tram ride is about 25 minutes long and offers a leisurely glimpse of the coastline, olive and lemon groves, and the bustling harbor area. The promenade is pedestrian-only, which makes for a pleasant walk along the long sandy beach and marina.

In Soller itself, the time is limited but delightful. You’ll have a chance to stroll the town’s streets, admire the Modernist houses, and indulge in some local treats like fresh orange crème ice cream from the Fet-a-Sóller cooperative. Many travelers rave about the ice cream — a perfect little sweet break amid the sightseeing.

The Tapas Lunch

Next, the group gathers for a delicious tapas-style lunch at a traditional local restaurant. The meal includes a variety of tapas and a non-alcoholic drink, giving you a taste of Mallorca’s culinary offerings. Reviewers frequently mention the lunch as a definite highlight, praising the flavor and authenticity of the food.

While some note that the “three-course lunch” might be a bit modest — with only about 1.5 tapas portions — most find it satisfying and well worth the price, considering the overall experience. It’s a chance to relax and soak in the local vibe before continuing with the day’s adventures.

Scenic Drive through the Tramuntana Mountains

After lunch, you’ll hop into a comfortable minibus for a scenic drive through the Tramuntana mountains. This part of the trip is often described as the most breathtaking. The road winds along sea cliffs, bays, and mountain vistas, with plenty of stops to admire the views.

Many reviews mention the impressive panoramas. “The views from Deia and Valldemossa are stunning,” travelers say, “and the drive itself is a highlight.” The journey takes you through Deia, a tranquil artists’ village famous for its serene atmosphere and beautiful setting. You’ll have some free time here to explore at your own pace — walk the narrow streets, visit the cemetery, or simply enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

Next, it’s a short drive to Valldemossa, a picturesque town known for its Carthusian monastery where Chopin once stayed. The town’s charming streets, decorated with flowers, make it perfect for wandering, and many visitors enjoy the chance to go inside the monastery or visit the local museum.

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Additional Highlights and Small Details

Several reviewers, like one who exclaimed, “Guide Sven was excellent — very knowledgeable and enthusiastic,” emphasize how much a good guide can enhance the experience. The guides share stories, historical tidbits, and local insights that bring the scenery and sites to life.

The small group size (max 8) adds an intimate touch, allowing for more personalized attention and flexibility. However, some travelers note that the van can get crowded, especially if everyone is trying to see out of the same window. If you’re prone to motion sickness, prepare for the winding mountain roads; one review pointed out the last half of the train journey is on winding roads, which could be challenging.

Timing and Duration

The tour is structured to be about 8 hours long, with the key railway and tram parts totaling roughly 3 hours of travel. The rest is spent exploring towns and enjoying meals. The timing suits most travelers looking for a full but not exhausting day, though it’s quite packed, so patience and good walking shoes are essential.

How It Looks from the Reviews

Looking at the consistent praise, many reviewers describe the tour as “well-organized,” “insightful,” and “beautifully scenic.” Guide Michael or Zven get frequent mentions for their knowledge and friendliness. One reviewer said, “Our guide Michael was outstanding — very knowledgeable about Mallorca and very kind,” capturing the essence of how a good guide can elevate the experience.

The value for money is often highlighted, especially considering the inclusion of train tickets, guided tours, a scenic drive, and lunch. For $221, you get a comprehensive taste of Mallorca’s highlights with minimal hassle.

Considerations and Downsides

While this tour has lots to offer, it’s not perfect for everyone. The long day can be tiring, especially for those not used to a packed schedule. The crowded van might be uncomfortable for some, and the winding mountain roads could induce motion sickness in sensitive travelers.

The scenery on the plains during the train ride is described as somewhat limited, and the lunch portions may leave hungry if you’re a bigger eater. The tram ride from Soller to Port de Soller costs extra, and some wished it was included.

This Palma: Tramuntana Full-Day Tour is ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive, scenic day out without renting a car or planning logistics themselves. It’s perfect if you love historic railways, charming villages, and mountain vistas, plus enjoy learning about local culture and food. The small group size and guided experience make it especially appealing for those who appreciate personalized attention and storytelling.

If you’re after a relaxing, visually stunning day with plenty of opportunities for photos, this tour ticks those boxes. It does involve a good deal of moving around and some bus winding through mountain roads, so be prepared for a full but rewarding adventure.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the experience can be enjoyed by older children and teenagers who are comfortable with a long day and some mountain driving. Keep in mind that the mountain roads are winding, and the tour involves quite a bit of walking during free time.

How long is the train ride?
The train journey from Palma to Soller lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes, crossing scenic plains and tunnels before reaching the mountains.

Can I take the tram from Soller to Port de Soller?
Yes, this option is available for €10 per person, payable on the day. It offers a scenic 25-minute ride along the coast.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes guided transportation on the historic train and minibus, guided tours of Soller and Valldemossa, a tapas lunch with drinks, and the scenic mountain drive.

What’s not included?
The tram from Soller to Port de Soller is optional and costs extra. Other meals and personal expenses are not covered.

How is the group size?
Limited to 8 participants, which keeps things intimate but can be a bit crowded in the van.

Is the tour wheelchair friendly?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users due to the nature of the transport and walking involved.

What happens if the train ride can’t operate?
In bad weather or technical issues, the train part may be replaced by a road vehicle. If that happens, the price is reduced accordingly, and you receive a refund for the train portion.

If you’re after a well-organized, scenic, and culturally enriching day around Mallorca’s Tramuntana mountains, this tour is a solid pick. It mixes history, stunning views, and a taste of local flavors in a way that’s accessible and memorable. While it’s on the busier side and involves some mountain winding roads, the overall experience seems to hit the sweet spot for most travelers looking for a full, authentic peek into Mallorca’s heart. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone wanting to explore beyond the coast, this tour offers a meaningful slice of the island’s beauty and charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: