What to do and see in Sóller
What to do and see in Sóller? Sóller is a picturesque village in Mallorca, located in a fertile valley surrounded by mountains, known as the “Golden Valley” for its abundant citrus fruits. Historically isolated, it prospered thanks to maritime trade and orange groves, a history that is reflected in its modernist architecture and charming streets. Today, it is a popular destination for hiking, nature, and relaxation, with an iconic tram connecting the town to its port, Port of Sóller.
Interesting facts
Location and surroundings: It is located in the northwest of Mallorca, in the Sierra de Tramuntana mountains, about 3 km from its port. It is surrounded by mountains and fields of orange and lemon trees.
History: Its name may derive from the Arabic “Sulliar” (treasures of the soil) due to the lignite and, above all, the wealth brought by citrus cultivation, especially from the 19th century onwards with exports to France. The return to Sóller of former emigrants also boosted the local economy and opened the doors to the influence of modernism.
Connections: Thanks to a railway built at the end of the 19th century, it is connected to Palma. A historic tram links the town with Puerto de Sóller, which is a tourist center with beaches and a beautiful promenade.
Architecture: Modernist-style buildings and a church with a unique façade in the main square stand out.
What to do and see in Sóller? Places of interest
Plaza de la Constitución: The heart of Sóller. It is a pedestrianized, tree-lined square notable for its modernist buildings, such as the Church of Sant Bartomeu and the former Bank of Sóller, both designed by architect Joan Rubió i Bellver, a disciple of Gaudí. It is a social meeting place with bars, restaurants, and terraces, crossed by the tracks of the iconic tram that connects to the Port of Sóller. Other important features are the Town Hall and the central Agora, a central space with pink stone and a fountain that brings freshness to the square.
Church of Sant Bartomeu: The Church of Sant Bartomeu in Sóller is a parish church in the Plaza de la Constitución with a rich history and varied architectural styles. It was originally built in the 13th century but has been significantly remodeled, resulting in a structure with Baroque and Gothic elements and a Modernist façade. Its single-nave interior is notable for its side chapels with altarpieces and a late 18th-century organ.
The Bank of Sóller: A bank founded in 1899, whose headquarters is an emblematic modernist building in the Plaza de la Constitución in Sóller. The building was constructed to house the capital of Mallorcan emigrants returning from America and Europe. It was absorbed by the Banco Hispano Americano in 1943 and the building is currently owned by another Spanish bank.
Ca’n Prunera: A 20th-century modernist building in Sóller, Mallorca, which functions as a museum and has been declared a Site of Cultural Interest. It stands out for its architecture, inspired by Catalan and French Art Nouveau, which includes an ornamental façade and interior details such as stained glass windows and a spiral staircase. Its interior houses a permanent collection of 19th- and 20th-century art, with works by artists such as Miró and Klee, as well as the work of local painter Juli Ramis, and temporary exhibitions.
Sóller Cemetery: (Son Sang) is a place of great artistic and scenic interest, known for its sculptures by artists such as Josep Llimona and for its design, which combines romantic and modernist styles. It was built on land belonging to Son Sang, with work beginning in 1814 and the first chapel being consecrated in 1841.
What to do and see in Sóller? Culture and festivals
El Firó: The most important festival in Sóller, commemorating the attack by Barbary pirates in 1561.
Sa Mostra Festival: A week-long international folk festival held every summer since 1980.
Fiestas de San Bartolomé: In August, the town’s patron saint is celebrated with a fire show called “correfoc.”
What to do and see in Sóller?
Explore the historic center: Stroll through the narrow streets and visit the Plaza de la Constitución.
Visit the Port of Sóller: Enjoy the coastal atmosphere, stroll along the promenade, or relax on the beach.
Travel on the wooden train: Hop on the historic train that connects the center with the port, passing through orange groves.
Discover modernist architecture: Admire the modernist mansions built in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
Enjoy nature: Go hiking or cycling in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, or visit the nearby village of Fornalutx.
Visit the market: The Saturday market is a popular place to experience local life.
Sóller is a Mallorcan city nestled in a valley of orange trees in the Sierra de Tramuntana, a World Heritage Site. It is known for its picturesque historic center, its modernist buildings, and its natural harbor, which can be reached by an old tram from the town square. In addition to its scenic beauty, it is an ideal destination for nature and outdoor sports, with hiking and cycling trails.
And that’s it for this brief guide to what to do and see in Sóller, Mallorca. We hope it helps.
By the way: Are you coming to Mallorca on a tourist trip? If you find it helpful, you can also check out our travel guide to Mallorca and more tourist information about the island
