Have you ever heard of Andorra? – You definitively wouldn’t want to miss this tiny and beautiful country. Check this ultimate Andorra Travel Guide with lots of tips and ideas to help you with travel planning.
*This post was updated in Feb 2023
Andorra Travel Guide: All You Need To Know
Whether you’re looking for new adventurous winter activities or planning a romantic getaway in Spain, if you love the Spanish Pyrenees – set your eyes on Andorra, the 6th smallest state in Europe. Let me share this Andorra Travel Guide to fill you in with all the details you need to know in order to have an epic trip to this tiny and beautiful country.
Preview
Whenever I feel the urge to escape the Spanish beaches in search of fresh mountain air and new awesome hikes, three unique destinations in the Pyrenees immediately pop up in my mind – Huesca region in Aragon, Baqueira Beret in Catalonia, and Andorra. I know that the words “I feel the urge to escape the Spanish beaches” slightly feel like they´ll be followed by the phrase “said no one ever”. But being an expat in the Valencia province for the past 10 years has developed in my heart a secret obsession for alternative travel experiences that go beyond enjoying the winter sun in Spain.
Therefore, mountains literally call me a few times every year.
This trip was my second time in Andorra. Back in 2006, I visited this tiny country with my parents: we spent the whole week skiing, as well as exploring the capital of Andorra La Vella. But things do evolve so quickly in the modern travel world that this 2016 (10 years after my first trip), I was already longing to return to Andorra for a few days to see what could have possibly changed.
By the way, you already have a new article about Andorra available after my 3rd visit – Romantic Weekend Getaway to Andorra.
Let me share this Andorra Travel Guide so that you can make the most out of your visit. Also, in this article, I will share a few general facts and tips for the first-timers.
Where is Andorra
While everyone here in Spain knows about Andorra, I lately meet more and more international travelers who have never heard of it.
So, Andorra is a beautiful and tiny country, landlocked in the Pyrenees mountain range between Spain and France. It is the 6th smallest nation in Europe, known for the lowest VAT and the world-class ski resorts.
Technically, Andorra is not part of the European Union, although the official currency is Euro. Andorra is ruled by a democratic parliament, with two co-heads of state – the President of France and the Catholic Bishop of Urgell, Spain (although both have a symbolic power).
The country has around 75000 residents and receives close to 8 million tourists every year.
Andorra´s capital is the city of Andorra La Vella. The official language is Catalan, but you won´t have problems moving around with Spanish or English. Many people in Andorra also speak French.
Traveling to Andorra

Andorra by car
Most visitors get to Andorra by car. Even though there´s a customs office at the border, the line goes fast (as they usually don´t check your papers, or at least in my experience). However, they do stop random cars once you´re leaving Andorra. Mainly, because the prices for alcohol, tobacco, electronic devices, and some other products are relatively cheaper in Andorra than in the rest of Europe. So, they try to avoid illegal export.
Also read: Secret and Beautiful Monasteries in Spain
But beware of the traffic jams at the entrance on Friday and Saturday mornings (or the Spanish holidays), as well as leaving on Sunday evenings. This is when most of the Spaniards cross the border to return home and you might get stuck in traffic for a few hours. Also, if you´re heading to Andorra in winter – keep an eye on traveling via CG-2 headway near the ski stations of Encamp, Canillo, and El Tarter- Grandvalira. From 8.30 – 9.30 and from 17.00-19.00 there´s a huge traffic jam when the ski slopes open and close.
Andorra by public transport
There is no international airport in Andorra, although the nearest Spanish small town of Seu d´Urgell has a tiny one. Nevertheless, visitors mostly fly into the nearby airports of Barcelona or Toulouse.
If you plan to visit Andorra by train, the nearest French train station is L´Hospitalet-pres L´Andorre (11 km from Andorra´s border) and Lleida Pirineos in Spain. Note, that the Spanish high-speed train AVE (from both Madrid and Barcelona) reaches Lleida Pirineos Train Station. From the train stations, you can easily reach Andorra by bus, check the schedules here.
Where to stay?
Andorra is a popular getaway destination for the Spaniards. Accommodation is mostly overpriced, but you can still find something for every budget. Many visitors and locals stay and live outside of Andorra, in the nearest Spanish small towns. Note that this way you will waste more time on traffic (especially if you plan to ski), even though technically you cross the Spain-Andorra border fast. But during the winter peak season (Dec – Feb), there are usually significant traffic jams near the main ski lifts towards Grandvalira slopes – Encamp, Canillo, and El Tarter ( 8.30/9.30 and from 17.00/19.00).
Also read: A Magical Weekend in Formentera – Recharging Mind, Body, and Soul
Add to this another traffic jam to enter/exit the country around the same hours (many locals work in Andorra and live in Spain as it´s cheaper this way). So, even though you only have 9 km from the nearest town of Seu D´Urgell to Andorra´s border – this might be a few minutes or a few hours, depending on the time of the day.
Andorra La Vella
As you might have imagined, I’ve tried all the options. During my first trip, we stayed at Holiday Inn Andorra in the capital of Andorra La Vella: it was really comfortable to explore local shops and cafes, and we would leave the hotel a bit earlier in the morning to avoid traffic towards the ski stations.
Seu D ´Urgell/ Spain
This time, on my second trip, we stayed at Castell de Cuitat in Seu D ´Urgell. As we knew about the rush-hour traffic, we planned it all wisely and did not encounter any delays during these few days. But if my trip was longer, let´s say a week, I’d rather stay inside Andorra, in order to feel more relaxed and less tied to the schedules.
Small Towns of Andorra

On my third visit, we stayed in La Massana, one of Andorra´s small towns. So far it´s been my favorite option. We did not ski this time, but it would be entirely possible if arriving at the slopes at least 30 mins before the opening (or maybe, one hour after it). While there are lots of amazing things to do in Andorra for non-skiers, living in Encamp, Canillo, or El Tarter is obviously great to make the most of your time at the slopes.
This way you completely forget about all the parking and traffic issues, but yes, – the accommodation near the slopes is quite pricy in winter. Plus, if you want to do some sightseeing in Andorra (which was my case ever since I´ve crossed skiing of my Andorra bucket list), you’ll need to move around a lot anyway. So, there´s no reason to pay extra to see the ski station from your window, unless you’re going to make the most of it.
Things to do in Andorra
1. Explore Andorra la Vella
Andorra la Vella is the capital of Andorra. It is a beautiful small town with lots of modern buildings nestled in between the traditional architecture. Here, you can find lots of shops, cafes, restaurants, a few historical sights and museums, and Spa Caldea.
Once in Andorra La Vella, don’t miss:
- Casa de la Vall: one of the oldest parliaments in Europe, built at the end of the XVI century (they organize guided visits)
- Plaça del Poble: from here you can see 7 Poets sculpture by Jaume Plensa
- Medieval churches with Romanesque origins – Iglesia de Sant Esteve, Santa Coloma, Sant Pere Martir, Capella Sant Andreu
- Casa Guillemó and Casa Felipó
- La Noblesse du temps (eng.The Nobility of Time) – a Salvador Dali statue
- av. Meritxell, c.Bonaventura, and av.Carlemany -the main shopping streets of Andorra
- Museo Carmen Thyssen and Andorra Land Art
- Ancient bridges: Pont D´Engordany, Pont dels Escalls, Pont de la Margineda, Pont Pla, Pont de la Tossa
I suggest your start your Andorra La Vella walking tour at the Local Tourist Office, where they can provide you with maps and guidebooks. You can also buy there a prepaid internet/phone SIM card (last time I checked it was 8 euros per 1GB). While you might know that there is no roaming in Europe nowadays – this rule does NOT apply to Andorra, as it is not an EU member.
Also read: Exploring Top Attractions in Navarra, Spain
Although most of the cafes, restaurants, and shopping centers in Andorra have a free Wi-Fi. Officially, the shopping streets av. Meritxell, c.Bonaventura, and av.Carlemany all have free internet, but it was not working for me.

2. Skiing in winter
If you’re visiting during the winter months one of the top things to do in Andorra is to test the local ski slopes. The country is known for its two world-class ski resorts – Grandvalira and Vallnord, with the first one being the largest ski area in the Pyrenees.
Although I should admit that I liked better skiing in the nearest Baqueira Beret (Catalonia/Spain), mainly because it felt less crowded than Andorra. In my experience, there were more international travelers and first-time skiers on the slopes of Andorra, while Baquiera got a fair share of the Spaniards. For some reason I felt like most of the people on the slopes of Baqueira were clearly non-beginners. Also, there were almost no lines to take the lifts in Baqueira, unlike Andorra (even though my trip was in January, which was supposed to be the peak season).
Again, this is my personal experience. Let me highlight that I still enjoyed skiing in both Grandvalira and Baqueira. Both rank globally among the world’s top ski destinations. According to the experts, Andorra´s Grandvalira wins over Baqueira Beret based on international ski standards. So skiing is still an absolute must-try for all the fans of winter sports.

3. Shopping
No Andorra Travel guide could skip the topic of shopping. In Andorra, you can shop till you drop. The country is known for its low taxes, you can find anything from high-end brands to low-tax deals. Av. Meritxell, c.Bonaventura, and av.Carlemany – are the main shopping streets of Andorra La Vella.
While in the shopping malls, close to the Spanish border, you can spot lots of Spaniards crossing the border over to fill in the tank or shop for weekly/monthly groceries, the concept of budget shopping in Andorra lately feels a bit questionable for me. Even though Andorra is known for the lowest taxes in Europe.
Why? – Firstly, these days you can often find better deals online. Secondly, the capital of Andorra La Vella is full of multinational brand stores, that you can literally find at the same price anywhere else. Thirdly, as Andorra attracts more international visitors every year – prices in the stores at the city center often match those of the most touristy streets in Europe. So, I honestly doubt that you’ll save a lot during shopping in Andorra. I have an impression that nowadays people purchase things in Andorra to splurge out on a trip, or because of the vibe.
Also read: Best Places to visit for Ceramics Lovers in Spain
With things like alcohol, tobacco, coffee, or tech stuff you have a price difference with Spain, due to the absence of VAT tax. Although, in order to get some significant savings from your purchase (not to mention the cost of staying and living in Andorra nowadays, which already makes it all pointless) – you’d need to buy a lot. But there are customs limits on the value and number of these products to avoid illegal trade. Plus, generally, you can take products out of the country up to a value limit of 900 euros without having to pay customs duties.
So, shopping in Andorra for the sake of experience – yes, but saving a lot on it – I doubt it.
Also, there are a few shopping events you can enjoy in Andorra during the whole year – Noche de Compras, Noche de Vivand, Gran Mercado de las Oportunidades, De Copes, Vide Dressing La Massana, and the Andorra Shopping Festival.

4. Hiking
While I have always visited Andorra during the winter months, testing local hikes is still in the plans. The main natural areas to explore are Comapedrosa Nature Reserve, Sorteny Valley Nature Reserve, Incles Valley, Enclar Valley, and Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley.
If you want to experience some nice views of Andorra la Vella you should consider the Rec Sola hiking route. Another popular trail is Coronallacs. It is divided into 5 stages (from 13 to 22 km each) where you get to sleep in high-mountain shelters and will be awarded with a certificate from the Andorra Ministry of Tourism upon completion. Due to its unique location, Andorra has a few cross-border trails, like El Camino del Reencuentro, Ruta Capcir – Andorra La Vella – Alt Urgell.
Also read: The Most Beautiful Gardens in Spain
If you enjoy nature tourism, simply download the Turisme Actiu Andorra app for more trails, maps, and GPS tracking.
Also, don’t miss Mirador Roc del Quer – a scenic viewpoint in Andorra with floor fragments made of transparent glass.

5. Wellness
With such a spectacular natural setting and plenty of active sports, Andorra is a trendy wellness destination. It feels so enjoyable to soak in after a day full of winter activities. Many of the Andorra hotels house their own private spa centers.
Also read: Weekend in Formentera – Recharging Mind, Body, and Soul
Also, one of the popular things to do in Andorra is to visit its Caldea Spa, the largest spa in Southern Europe. The Complex has a family-friendly area and the adults-only Inúu Spa section. I have mixed feelings about Caldea Spa though, as it gets so crowded in winter that it sometimes feels more like a water park, rather than a relaxing Spa Center. Nevertheless, I have listed it as one of the romantic things to do in Andorra after my recent trip. Mainly because we got an early 9 am entrance and were able to enjoy the place to the fullest with no crowds around. You can check my Andorra IG Stories to get a glimpse of the outdoor pool with panoramic views.

6. Activities for non-skiers
If you want to enrich your trip with some adrenaline-pumping activities Andorra got you covered here as well. Top things to do in Andorra if you’re not into skiing:
- go dog sledding in Port d’ Envalira
- fly over the ice in a snowmobiling
- snowtubing, Magic Gliss in Grandvalira
- ice skating at Palau de Gel d´Andorra
- cross-country skiing, Tobotronc and other wither adventures in Naturlandia Amusement Park
- Andorra´s Christmas village in December
- Taking a cable car to Funicamp station to enjoy the views
No Andorra Travel Guide could miss the topic of sightseeing. Andorra is full of Pre-Romanesque and Romanesque Art, mainly displayed via its forty Romanesque churches. If you love exploring local museums, consider getting PassMuseu for 2,5 euros which allows you a 50% discount on the admission price for the 3 museums of your choice. Bus Touristic Andorra offers different bus itineraries with a guide onboard.
Also read: 2022 Favorite Travel Experiences in Spain
Depending on your travel dates, you might consider visiting a few popular events in Andorra: Colores de Musica de Escalades-Engordany, Fallaires de San Juan, Sax Fest, Jambo Street Music, Cirque du Soleil, Meritxell Day (the patron Saint of Andorra).

7. Food
To cover fully the food topic there should be a separate Andorra travel guide written on the local gastronomy. Andorra’s cuisine combines French and Catalan influences.
A must-experience is to have a dinner in la borda. La borda was once an annex of many local high mountain houses, where the grass and cattle were kept. Nowadays, Andorra has at least 20 restored bordas turned into beautiful restaurants. They are the best to enjoy the local vibe and try traditional foods.
Also read: Traditional Spanish Food in Local Villages
The most typical dishes not to miss: escudella stew, Andorra’s sausages (donja, bringuera, bull, or bisbe), trinxat ( made with potatoes, green cabbage, bacon, and garlic), rice with mushrooms or arroz a la montaña, river trout, cannelloni, Crema Andorrana, snails Cargols a la lluna, Galtes de Porc, Amanida de Xicoira.
But I’d add to this list a cheese fondue, as this is one of my personal must-haves in Andorra. Save this IG post for the list of typical Andorran dishes.

Also, on the Spanish forums, people warn you against drinking tap water in Andorra. But as I always drink bottled water on the road – can not share my experience on this one.
For more tips about Spain and winter holidays check my Pinterest Boards Winter Travel Destinations and Travel to Spain.
Pin it:

I have heard of Andorra but couldn’t have told you where it was before your post. The mountains look really love and I would love to hang out in that hot tub! I agree with you not sure it is worth doing shopping there. Thanks for sharing on #TheWeeklyPostcard.
Thanks Anisa!
Looks kind of gloomy in Andorra at this time of year. I’d love to visit it, but in a warmer season. #TheWeeklyPostcard
It is a great place for hiking and other nature activities in summer!
Not only have I heard of Andorra and know where it is, but I have been there. It was great fun to visit because it is such a small country but I agree with you – the shopping is overrated and no reason to go. I do admit I am not much of a shopper.
Thanks for stopping by Lyn !
I’ve heard about Andorra before, but haven’t considered going, but anything with a great spa totally has me interested! #TheWeeklyPostcard
Thanks Lolo!
yes i’ve heard about Andorra because i have vacationed in Costa Brava and passed Andorra exit several times on my way to north of the Spanish border to the south of France:)
Thanks for your comment Victoria!
I wouldn’t have guessed that Andora is so stunning, Anna! Thanks to your post, it is now on my bucket list!
Thanks for stopping by, Agness!
I’m Spanish, so I think t doesn’t count I know where Andorra is 😛 We have a pending visit to Andorra
If you´re Spanish – you know it for sure 😉 Hope you get to visit soon!
Andorra is one of my last remaining European countries to visit, but sadly shopping isn’t really my thing. The hotel does look good though, so it may be worth the visit to Andorra, even though it’s in Spain. #theweeklypostcard
The landscapes in the Pyrenees, including Andorra, are amazing! So even without shopping, you could do a lot of “walks with nature”!
I am glad someone is writing about Andorra. I would love to vosot one day as it seems amazing! Doesn’t matter about shopping, as I hardly ever go shopping on my holidays, but the spa is something I really miss. I would love to relax just like you did! I wonder if there is any mountain climbing in the mountains? Would you happen to know?
Thanks for your comment, Kreete! There are a lot of awesome hikes in the area, especially great in summer! This map is in Spanish, but you could have the general idea of how many options there are around Andorra http://www.rutaspirineos.org/mapa-rutas-pirineos
Love this post! Me and my boyfriend visited Andorra for a ski trip a few years ago, it was incredible!
I’ve heard about Andorra recently and its growing popularity so I maybe have to make sure I visit before it gets too popular. It looks beautiful, and this is such a great guide.
Wow, I didn’t know much about Andorra, but it looks like a beautiful place! I love the mountain backdrop for the streets! I’d also love to visit Caldea Spa – it sounds like a relaxing retreat and I’m definitely in need of that! Thanks for the great guide!
I didn’t know anything about Andorra before reading this guide—and I learned so much! It looks gorgeous, and the little mountain towns are so pretty.
This is such a beautiful town. I love how the town is nestled down below the mountain. What a beautiful backdrop!
Never considered visiting Andorra but I also didnknow it was such a great place for hiking. I will definitely put it on my travel list.
I’ve done mostly Coast and Northern Spain but this inspires me to visit Andorra next time I’m there!
This looks like such a beautiful part of Andorra to visit! I would love to go hiking and then eat some of that delicious looking food.
I have to admit I only found out that Andorra is a country a couple of years ago, nice to see that there is so mcc to do there. thanks for sharing