Soller

History & Culture in Soller

Soller's early history
Soller has been inhabited by humans since Talayotic times (from 5200 BC), and remains from this era include bronze statues, two of which can be seen in the Museu de Mallorca in Palma. The location of Soller, deep in the Serra de Tramuntana mountains, meant that the town was isolated from the rest of Mallorca and missed out on much of the Roman occupation.

Pirates and other seafaring invaders were always a danger to the inhabitants of Soller, which is why the main town is situated a couple of miles inland from the sea. During the 16th century, Soller suffered repeated attacks from Moorish pirates from Algeria. The pirates were after treasures, as well as women and children. One particular battle in 1561 saw a famous victory for the Sollerics when they repelled 1600 pirates in both Soller and at the Port de Soller. This victory is celebrated every year at the Moros y Cristianos Festival in May when everyone gets dressed up as Moors or Christians and the battle is re-enacted on the beaches in the Port.

The trading boom of the 19th & 20th centuries
During the 19th century, Soller became a major exporter of olives and citrus fruits. The French Revolution had seen a great deal of French immigration to Soller and it was these migrants who utilised their links back in France to build trade relations. With trade came wealth and the creation of impressive manor houses and public buildings, giving Soller an air of grandeur rarely seen in other Mallorcan towns. A stroll to the cemetery above the train station, flanked by cypress trees and filled with potted plants, gives a clue into Soller's history. Several of the epitaphs are in French, revealing the significant French community of the town, descendants of those who came to make their fortune by exporting oranges.

In 1865, a deathly plague struck the orange groves in the valley. Exports declined, public finances were ravaged and many people left to seek their fortunes back in France or South America. The fruit farms gradually recovered and received a boost when scientists discovered the benefits of vitamin C to human health, which created great demand for oranges and lemons.

It was not until 1912 when the rail link to Palma was built that Soller finally began to trade with the rest of Mallorca. The tram line that links Soller to Port de Soller was built in 1914 to help with the transportation of oranges for export. The most recent improvement to the transportation to the rest of Mallorca was the construction of the Soller Tunnel, a 3km road underneath the mountains, in 1997.

Sights & Attractions in Soller

History, Architecture & Culture in Sóller
Sóller owes much of its charm to its rich history—especially its days of prosperity during the orange trade—and you can still see the legacy of that wealth in the town’s striking architecture.

The standout building in the main square is the church of Sant Bartomeu. First built in the 13th century, it has evolved over the centuries, with a grand Baroque structure added in the late 1600s and an impressive modernist façade completed in 1904 by Joan Rubid, a former pupil of Gaudí. Look out for the dramatic tower above the rose window, added in 1912—its needle-like spires are hard to miss. Right next door, you'll spot another of Rubid’s creations: the grand former bank building, just as architecturally impressive.

As you wander through town, you’ll notice plenty more historic gems. There are elegant 18th-century residences, medieval townhouses, and neoclassical mansions dotted around the centre. For a glimpse into Sóller’s more extravagant past, head to Gran Via, where many of the most lavish old manor houses—built with money from the orange trade—still line the street. Cristòfol Colom and Calle Isabel II are also worth a stroll, with beautiful examples of both Modernist and traditional Mallorcan architecture.

Museums & Art Galleries
If you enjoy a bit of culture while you’re away, Sóller has some lovely museums and galleries to explore. The Natural Science Museum, just on the edge of town, is a great place to learn about Mallorca’s botany, geology and wildlife. There’s also a fascinating fossil collection. Right next door, the botanical garden is well worth a visit. It’s a peaceful spot filled with plants from across the Balearic and Canary Islands—perfect for a gentle wander.

Back in the centre of town, the Museu del Casal de Cultura offers a glimpse into Sóller’s past. Set in an 18th-century manor house, it’s full of antiques and objects that tell the story of local life over the centuries.

One of the real cultural highlights is Can Prunera, Sóller’s modern art gallery. Even if you’re not usually drawn to galleries, this one is special—both for its collection and the building itself. You’ll find works by Picasso, Miró, Matisse, Magritte, and many more, all set within a beautifully preserved Modernist house from the early 1900s. The architecture alone—ornate staircases, stained glass, murals—is worth the visit. It’s a wonderful blend of art, history, and local flair.
 

Events in Soller

Soller plays host to a great selection of festivals throughout the year. The biggest and best fiesta in the Soller calendar is Es Firo, the Moros and Cristianos Festival which takes place in the second week of May. It commemorates a battle that took place in 1561 between pirates and local townspeople. The festivities include dances and concerts and, most famously, the battle re-enactment taking place on the beaches on Port de Soller. Everyone dresses up as Moors or in traditional Mallorcan costume and there is much celebrating.

June sees a major fiesta, the celebration of Sant Joan or midsummer's eve with bonfires and dancing on the 23rd, while the fiesta of Sant Bartomeu takes place during the week of 24th August.

Things to do in Soller

Other than soaking up the beautiful surroundings of the town and indulging in the town's past, many people come to Soller to enjoy "The Great Outdoors". Being the gateway to the Serra de Tramuntana, Soller is surrounded by beautiful countryside, so it's almost a crime not to be outside to enjoy it. Of course, being so close to the coast, there are boat trips, yacht charters and scuba diving activities available from the neighbouring Port de Soller.

Hiking
Hiking is a major draw for visitors who are spoiled for choice when it comes to trails in the area. You can choose from coastal walks or head deep into the Tramuntana mountain range. The trails are well maintained and signposted. The most famous is 'Dry Stone Route’ which runs from Andratx, in the south, to Pollença, in the north of Mallorca, via Soller and is over 50km in length. Mountain refuges dot the trail so hikers have place places to stay en-route. To see all the best bits, we would suggest using a local hiking company such as Tramuntana Tours or Mallorca Hiking who can arrange all sorts of ways to discover the area.

Cycling & mountain biking
Both road cycling and mountain biking are extremely popular ways of exploring the mountains around Soller. The roads from Soller up into the Tramuntana range provide great challenges for the road cycling enthusiast, with plenty of winding ascents and descents. A guide for mountain biking is particularly recommended as much of the land in the area is privately owned. You can hire all different kinds of bikes and get information on cycling routes from Tramuntana Tours.

Tennis
Tennis is a popular activity in Soller and there are public tennis courts available to rent from the Soller Tennis Club. 

Shopping
Most of the shops in Soller are tailored towards tourists visiting the town, so there are a few gift shops and some lovely delicatessens. Saturday mornings are the best time to come to the town for shopping, as this is when the local market takes place where you can buy arts and crafts, jewellery, clothes, toys, sweets of course alongside local produce.

Dining in Soller

You’ll find plenty of spots around Sóller’s main square where you can grab a relaxed bite to eat—perfect for a quick snack or a bit of people-watching. But if you’re happy to explore some of the quieter side streets, you’ll come across some lovely places offering great food and good value.

If you're after something more traditionally Spanish, there are some excellent restaurants serving up high-quality tapas, paella, fideuà, fresh seafood, and hearty Mallorcan meat dishes. A few specialise in pintxos and small sharing plates (raciones), all made fresh each day with top-notch local ingredients—think fruit and veg from nearby cooperatives and bread baked just down the road. It’s a great way to enjoy the flavours of the region in a relaxed and welcoming setting.

You’ll also find more intimate restaurants tucked away on Sóller’s prettiest streets. These often have a bit of a personal touch—sometimes run by friends or families—offering a cosy atmosphere and a menu full of creative twists on local favourites. If you’re a fan of generous cuts like prime rib steak or beautifully crafted tapas, you’re in for a treat.

Some restaurants really shine with their seasonal menus and creative flair. One, in particular, is known for reinventing traditional Mallorcan dishes through a weekly five-course tasting menu. Their lunchtime set menu (menú del día) is also excellent value, and it’s worth booking ahead if you'd like to sit in the courtyard.

If it’s a view you’re after, there are places a little higher up the hill where you can dine overlooking the Sóller valley. These restaurants usually focus on Mediterranean cuisine with a bit of international influence, all made with high-quality, often organic, local produce. It’s a lovely spot for a special lunch or dinner.

And when you’re ready to slow down, Sóller’s café scene won’t disappoint. Whether you're in the mood for a good coffee, a homemade pastry, or a refreshing ice cream, there are plenty of welcoming cafés dotted around. They’re ideal for relaxing after a wander through town—or just treating yourself to a sweet pause in the day..

Villas in Soller

Apartments in Soller

Hotels in Soller

Sóller offers a fantastic range of hotels to suit all budgets, with increasing attention in recent years for its luxury boutique-style accommodation.

Boutique hotels in the town centre
The town centre features a number of elegant boutique hotels, many housed in historic buildings with a blend of contemporary design and period charm. Guests can expect features such as luxurious beds, stylish en-suite bathrooms, and welcoming communal areas. Many establishments offer the ideal combination of peaceful seclusion—perhaps with a pool or garden—and proximity to the centre of Sóller, just a short stroll away.

Five-star options in the heart of town typically include refined amenities such as spas, fine dining restaurants, curated art collections, and tranquil outdoor spaces. Other hotels offer a more relaxed, bohemian atmosphere, with individually styled rooms, lush gardens, and inviting poolside areas ideal for unwinding with a drink in hand. Some are known for their characterful touches, such as extensive wine cellars or distinctive design elements—perfect for a romantic break.

There are also more traditional town hotels set in beautifully restored 19th-century manor houses. These often feature just a handful of rooms, offering a more intimate experience with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, elegant suites, and well-tended gardens. Their charm and attention to detail often result in high guest loyalty and frequent return visits.

Rural retreats in the surrounding hills
For those seeking a more tranquil, rural setting, the hills surrounding Sóller are dotted with converted fincas offering peaceful retreats amidst nature. These countryside hotels typically feature traditional Mallorcan architecture, with rustic yet stylish interiors, romantic bedrooms, and sweeping views of the sea and mountains.

Many have been lovingly restored and now offer amenities such as swimming pools, gardens filled with citrus and olive trees, and on-site dining using local ingredients. Despite their secluded feel, several are within easy walking distance of the town centre, making them a perfect base for exploring Sóller while enjoying the serenity of the countryside.

Whether you’re looking for modern luxury, traditional elegance, or a rural escape, Sóller’s hotel scene has something for every taste and occasion.

How to get to Soller

By car
Although in the north-west of the island, Soller is easily accessible from Palma airport. Travel towards Palma city coming from the airport, then hop on the Ma-20 motorway, coming off at exit 5A get on the Ma-11 which takes you all the way to the town of Soller.

Public transport
Whilst there are no direct buses to Soller from the airport, you can catch bus number 1 from the airport to the bus station at Plaça d'Espanya in Palma. From there, get the direct 211 TIB which leaves at least once per hour and takes around 40 minutes.