Andorra
One of the hidden jewels of Europe, the mountainous country of Andorra is nestled between France and Spain. It may be small but it is still a super fun destination.
Andorra travel guide
This tiny treasure is a best-kept secret in the Pyrenees mountains, nestling between France and Spain. Andorra is not part of the EU despite being located in Europe, and has been mostly known as a tax haven. It’s home to lush mountains and lakes, some historic buildings worth exploring and quaint villages where one can enjoy some of the best skiing, golfing and hiking opportunities on the continent, depending on the weather.
Pick your season and head to Andorra to enjoy its adventure sports, including the renowned ski slopes in Grandvalira that transform into a golf course when the snow melts and various popular locations including Via Ferrata, which offers superb skiing in the winter and walking, climbing and cycling trails in the summer. Also, throughout this tiny country are lots of thermal springs where you can rejuvenate yourself, especially at Caldea, Europe’s biggest thermal bath complex.
Skiing is by far Andorra’s most popular activity, especially in Vallnord and Grandvalira. Vallnord is actually 3 ski resorts in one, comprising Arcalis, Pal and Arinsal. If you’re heading for Vallnord, best places to stay are La Massana and Ordino. In Grandvalira, best places to stay are Soldeu and Pas de la Casa.
Where is Andorra, you ask? Just 3 hours’ drive from Barcelona in the south and Toulouse in the north. The tiny city of Andorra La Vella, its capital, is easy to explore on foot and you’ll find lots of shops, art galleries, cafes, excellent hotels and restaurants on its busy main street.
In the winter, skiers and snowboarders head for Encamp, the ideal base from which to enjoy both the country’s iconic Pas de la Casa and Gau Roig Ski areas. Other popular destinations include the Valira del Nord Valley, home to a tiny picturesque mountain village called El Serrat, and La Cortinada, where the church of Marti de al Cortinada stands. The district of Vallnord is famous for its skiing.
Because of Andorra's hilly terrain, there's really purely a single route into the country from France, and only one well-traveled road into the country from Spain. Almost all people entering the nation do so through a few particular gateways.
Andorra is still not a member of the European Union, the European Economic Area, or the Schengen Area. Andorra, on the other hand, is a member of the EU Customs Union and is considered as an EU member in terms of much trading relationships. You will have no issues entering the country if you are able to travel in other countries nearby such as the EU nations of France and Spain.
Andorra does not require a visa for entry and just requires a passport or a European Union national identity card. In practise, however, because access is only allowed through Schengen nations, one must meet the Schengen entry requirements. Because Andorra is not a Schengen member, travellers from around the EU should be aware that entering France or Spain then into Andorra will (technically) end a single-entry visa. In practise, however, because everybody should re-enter the Schengen Area as part of their ability to continue travelling on elsewhere, immigration does not police this.
On request, a commemorative visa mark may be obtained at the border.
Andorra's primary language is Catalan, however Spanish is the most widely spoken language among individuals of all native languages. In Pas de la Casa, notably, French is extensively spoken. Around ten percent of the local population speaks Portuguese as their first language. The tourist business employs a large number of people who speak English so you will have no issue when interacting with those you are likely to meet at hotels, bars or restaurants.
Summer in Andorra means excellent hiking trails and being surrounded by nature.
Best time to visit: From April to October for warm weather activities, and from November to March for skiing.
Best Area for Sightseeing: The old quarter in the capital, Andorra la Vellaj, called Barri Antic, is home to the Romanesque Santa Coloma Church, with its iconic circular bell tower. The town also features numerous excellent shops, restaurants and cafes.
Shopping in Andorra: Andorra La Vella Andorra’s shopping drawcard is that everything here is duty free. Don’t forget the markets, though. You’ll pick up excellent bargains there, too, especially wine, cheese and tobacco. Best place to shop is the capital, Andorra La Vella, particularly Meritxell Avenue in the suburb of Escaldes Engordany and the town’s main shopping street, Carlemany Avenue, home to a huge mall filled with fashion boutiques, eateries and a cinema.
Food & Restaurants in Andorra: You’ll find great spots to eat in the towns and resorts throughout Andorra. The country’s wine is excellent, too.
Nightlife: Apres Ski life in the resorts is excellent, and many of the bars and hotels throughout the country offer excellent evening entertainment.
Things to do in Andorra:
- Head for Canilla to see incredible religious sites including the Romanesque Church of Sant Joan de Casells and the Basilica Sanctuary of Nostra Senyora de Meritxell.
- For a real adventure stay at the Iglu Hotel at Grau Roig, built every year from fresh snow.
- Enjoy ice skating at Palau de Gel.
- Visit a thermal spa in Engordany for a rejuvenating experience.
- Enjoy some of the best skiing Europe has to offer at Grandvalira.
- In the capital, visit the 12th century Sant Esteve Church to see its incredible wood carvings.
- In summer, climb the highest peak in Andorra, the Pic de Coma Coma Pedrosaå.
- Visit the Postal Museum in Ordino to see a rare collection of Andorran stamps.
Best way to get around: By car (unless you’re skiing of course!).
Best Area for Families: Any of the ski resorts The country’s excellent ski resorts are very family-friendly, with plenty of activities for kids and adults alike.