Andorra’s Only Travel Guide You Need For A Great Trip in 11 Easy Steps
- Destinations Europe
Cruisit Team
- 0
- 51 minutes read
Andorra’s Background
Andorrans lived under a unique co-principality controlled by French and Spanish authorities for 715 years, from 1278 to 1993. (from 1607 onward, the French chief of state and the Spanish bishop of Urgel). This feudal system was reformed in 1993 when the nominal heads of state were kept but the administration was turned into a parliamentary democracy. Long remote and destitute, mountainous Andorra has attained significant riches through its tourism sector after World War II. Many immigrants (both legal and illegal) are drawn to the growing economy because of the lack of income taxes.
There are two heads of state in this co-principality: the French President and the Bishop of Urgel. Nobody knows who the Bishop of Urgel is or where on earth Urgel is, so don’t worry about it. Andorra, on the other hand, is nestled between France and Spain in the Pyrenees. It has taken advantage of its status by attracting visitors and companies with cheap tax rates.
Catalan is the primary language, but French, Spanish, and Portuguese are all commonly spoken. Because of all that fresh mountain air, the Andorrans have one of the world’s greatest life expectancies.
Andorra is mostly a country for outdoor activities, from hiking to skiing to paragliding. While you’re there, you might as well buy some duty-free goods. You will not be disappointed if you ski in Vallnord, hike around El Serrat, rest in a hot spring at the spa at Centre Termoldic Caldea, or go shopping in Andorra la Vella.
“Andorra, a tiny country in Europe with so much to do, not to mention the tax-free haven it provides its visitors and natural landscape in a tiny spot“
Andorra as mentioned before was created in the 9th century by Charlemagne, according to local folklore. Until the publication of its constitution in 1993, this Catalan-speaking miniature country was jointly controlled for almost 700 years by two co-princes: Spain’s bishop of Urgell and France’s president, both of whom are still honorary heads of state.
Andorra, with its 468 square kilometers of rolling valleys, Romanesque cathedrals, and sky-reaching peaks sandwiched between France and Spain, has by far the greatest ski slopes and resort amenities in the Pyrenees. Once the snow melts, there is an excellent trekking, ranging from short strolls to challenging day treks in the Principality’s higher, more distant regions, where you may roam for hours, nearly alone.
a bustling metropolis Andorra la Vella is clogged with traffic and duty-free day-trippers, with only a smidgeon of charm remaining in its centuries-old Barri Antic. All of that is quickly forgotten as you get above the narrow valleys.
Europe’s small country is only a short trip away from France and Spain. If you’re driving from France to Spain (or the opposite), you may as well stop in this small nation and see what it’s all about.
- Visit the government headquarters, Casa de la Vell, and enjoy shopping in Andorra la Vella.
- Ski or snowboard in Vallnord, a three-resort ski area.
- Come to a halt at the Puente de Paris.
- Admire the Sant Joan de Caselles chapel in Canillo.
- Marvel at La Noblesse du Temps. boasting 1.4 tons in weight
- Visit Andorra la Vella’s Historical Center, a modest district with a few notable historical structures.
- Ordino’s Casa Plairal d’Areny de Plandolit is a must-see.
- Hike in the vicinity of El Serrat.
- Unwind and splash around at the Hotsprings of Les Escaldes.
- Lake Engolasters is a great place to go fishing or for a walk.
- Visit Santa Coloma, which features a lovely church and fortification.
- Take advantage of a spa treatment in the largest spa in Europe, Caldea.
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Andorra does not have an airport or a train station, however there are buses.
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English is not generally spoken outside of tourist areas.
- The best way to get around Andorra is by car.
- You need a fishing license if you plan on going fishing.
- You may be surprised at the number of firearms that are on display in numerous shops. That is due to the strong hunting culture found in Andorra. Bazookas, sniper rifles, and submachine guns are typically piled next to souvenirs.
- If you plan on skiing, make sure you follow up with updates regarding certain routes, take a map, and preferably have a guide with you.
- The traffic congestion is real in Andorra, especially when crossing the borders, so make sure you cross the borders after midnight or very early in the morning to avoid the cram.
- Andorra is home to some of the world’s happiest people., so try not to call them French or Spanish. so you don’t strain their feeling of hospitality towards you.
- Andorra isn’t a member of the European Union, so your purchases may also be subject to taxes when you leave, which is why it’s often referred to as a tax trap destination.
- You can go from one end of the country to the other in about an hour.
Andorra la Vella is a highly secure place to visit. Other than the occasional thief who may cross your way, which is typical in this city, tourists should have no concerns. Use common sense, and your journey should go successfully because the general danger in this nation is relatively low.
With virtually no crime, fraud, or violence to report, entering Andorra might be one of the riskiest and most stressful portions of your vacation. The only trail into the nation is through the country’s deep valleys.
Skiing and mountain biking are two dangerous sports in Andorra because of the terrain, and only the most competent and insane people attempt to descend the slopes. There are a couple of less harsh tunes for individuals who don’t want to die.
The Best Time to Visit Andorra
The months of May to mid-July, as well as September, are ideal for visiting Andorra because of the Mediterranean sunshine and milder temperatures in the Pyrenean hills. Rhododendrons are in full flower in June, with fruits maturing in midsummer and mushrooms sprouting in October. Winter vacations here take advantage of the thick snow and clear sky, with opportunity to explore snow-covered landscapes on snowshoes or cross-country skis.
The greatest season to visit for hiking and summer activities, as well as milder weather (a high of upper 70 degrees Fahrenheit), is from April through October.
The nearest airport is Perpignan-Rivesaltes Airport, and the nearest train station is l’Hospitalet-près-l’Andorre in France. There are frequent buses from Barcelona (including the airport) in Spain and Toulouse (including the airport) in France to Andorra la Vella; this is actually the easiest method to get to the nation if you don’t have your own transportation.
Another method to get to Andorra as well is the La Seu d’Urgell Airport in Spain is just around 6 miles from Andorra. Buses also run often from surrounding airports in Toulouse, Perpignan, Carcassone, Barcelona, and Girona.
By Train
None exist.
By Bus
Buses are an inexpensive mode of transportation, with regular fares ranging from 1.30 to 5.50 euros depending on the distance traveled. Buses run every day from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and cover most of Andorra. You may also check for tourist buses, which go through major cities and cost 12 euros each journey.
By Taxi
Taxis are an excellent mode of transportation around Andorra. Taxis have meters and incur a base fare of 2.5 euros. The meter is around a euro per kilometer traveled during the day, and a bit over a euro per kilometer at night and on weekends.
By Car
To rent a car, you must be at least 21 years old (ideally 25) and have a one-year-old valid international or US driver’s license. Some rental firms will want a 100-euro refundable deposit. Prices start at 30 euros per day for drivers over the age of 25.
By Plane
No Airport or Planes Exist and the country is very small to need internal transportation by planes.
Andorra Telecom is the main mobile provider and a prepaid SIM card can be purchased through them. Because Andorra is not a member of the EU/EEA, it is not included in practically all European carriers’ shared “roam like at home” roaming zone. This implies that roaming data on Andorra Telecom’s exclusive network is generally taxed at exorbitant prices.
Check your roaming rates, you may want to stick to the internet access you get from your accommodation and download offline services like maps.
Top Places in Andorra
La Casa de la Vall
La Casa de la Vall is a popular tourist site in Andorra la Vella. It was constructed in 1580 and is currently the seat of administration. It is renowned for its magnificent coat of arms and other historical emblems of the country’s prior rulers.
The welcome chamber, with its 16th-century wall paintings, and the Council Chamber are highlights of the 30-minute guided tour (Sala de Sessions). The historic Cupboard of the Seven Keys, to which each of the country’s seven communes has a key (it houses the country’s records, including documents going back to Charlemagne’s reign), may be found here.
Caldea
Caldea is the highest structure in Andorra and Europe’s largest thermal spa complex, with 18 stories. It also features one of the most stunning architectural designs in the world. There are various indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, swimming pools, and hydrotherapy sections in the spa complex.
A visit to this beautifully built spa complex is one of those once-in-a-lifetime experiences that is not easily forgotten due to its usage of the mineral-rich warm waters that rise from the city’s thermal spring. Visit the spa’s Inu facility if you’re looking for an adults-only experience. Every year, about 400,000 individuals visit the spa.
Sant Joan de Caselles
The chapel of Església de Sant Joan de Caselles is located a short distance north of the lovely hamlet of Canillo. This magnificent ancient stone edifice, which originates from the 11th century and has many intriguing elements, is considered one of the country’s best Romanesque churches. The most prominent feature is its magnificent interior, which is painted with outstanding paintings and includes a retablo, St. John and the Apocalypse, which dates from 1525.
The choir grille with its Romanesque stucco image of Christ on the Cross and the distinctive polychrome artwork that surrounds it are further features of this well-preserved Catholic church.
Les Escaldes
The Andorran village of Les Escaldes, located just a few minutes’ drive from Andorra la Vella, gets its name from the numerous hot springs that dot the area. The town’s waters, noted for their high sulphur and nitrogen content, range from a soothing 22 degrees Celsius to a blistering 66 degrees Celsius and were widely recognized for their medical virtues as long back as Roman times.
The waters were found by the ancient Romans, who created a spa that is worth investigating. Roman remains, the Capilla Sant Roma Fortress, and the Pont dels Escalls Bridge are all nearby.
Encamp
Encamp, located in the geographical center of Andorra and home to roughly 12,000 people, is a wonderful base no matter what time of year you choose to explore the nation. Its downtown is also one of the most beautiful in the country, with the Valira d’Orient river running through it.
The breathtaking vistas of the Valira d’Orient River will take your breath away. The town is filled with charming historical buildings, tiny cafés, shops, and restaurants serving regional cuisine. The unusual National Automobile Museum is located in Encamp. There is a vast collection of historic vehicles within, including motorbikes and steam-powered autos. If you come in the winter, use the lift to Grau Roig or Pas de la Casa to hit the slopes.
Ordino
The little town of Ordino, idyllically nestled at the base of the 2,740-meter-tall Casamanya mountain, is the main attraction in Andorra’s scenic Valira del Nord Valley. Photographers will find it to be one of the most picturesque locations in Andorra.
Ordino is a must-visit if you want to learn more about the Valira del Nord Valley. It is located at the base of the Casamanya Mountain and welcomes you with rustic charm and a relaxed environment. A 17th-century mansion once owned by Baron de Senaller is one of Ordino’s most popular attractions. Inside, there’s an old armory with a barrel organ, an extravagant library, and an opulent iron balcony.
7-day Itinerary in Andorra (with extension options)
Days 1 (with possible 1 day extension)
Arrive in Andorra La Vella
Andorra La Vella, tucked high in the Pyrenees and home to less than 65,000 people, appears at first to be an unexpected tourist magnet.
Begin your visit on the your first day by learning about the fascinating history of Centro Historico, appreciating the history behind La Noblesse du Temps, pausing for some serene contemplation at C.S. Santa Coloma.
Explore the major feature of C.S. Santa Coloma, a four-story bell tower built in the 12th century. The church, a pre-Romanesque structure built in the early 10th century, is embellished with Romanesque mural paintings by the Master of Santa Coloma. It has a bust of Our Lady of Remedies and a Baroque altarpiece. You may take a guided tour of the church, but be sure to contact ahead and check the hours of operation.
Then trekking along Sola Irrigation Canal Trail, contemplating the long history of Barri Antic, and finally pausing for some serene contemplation at Sant Esteve d’Andorra la Vella.
Admire the Romanesque paintings and the vibrant hues of the stained-glass windows at Sant Esteve d’Andorra la Vella, the principality’s parish church. This Romanesque edifice, which contains a bell tower, was built in the 12th century and is near to the parliament building. The church has the largest apse in the principality and has its original Lombardian ornamentation.
It also has two Baroque altarpieces and a multicolored wooden beam. The church has certain hours for guests, so please phone ahead to confirm opening and closing times.
Extra Day
Prepare for a busy day of touring the next day: Trek along Estanys de Tristaina, visit Museu Casa Rull, visit Museu Casa d’Areny-Plandolit, admire the views at Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley, admire the views from Pont de Paris, and lastly visit Plaza del Poble.
- Backpacker:
- Budget:
- Mid-range:
- High end:
Constantine is regarded as somewhat safe for foreigners. But take your precautions, especially as a solo woman traveler. You may want to have a guide or a taxi with you for the entirety of your stay there.
By Cab
or
By Bus
Days 2+
Arrive to Canello
On the third day, after having a delicious breakfast, head to Canello and start by exploring the galleries of Museu Nacional de l’Automobil. At the Museu Nacional de l’Automobil, you may see the 1885 Pinette steam engine as well as unusual automobiles from other eras. The motor museum comprises multiple levels of automobiles, gadgets, and bicycles from various decades.
Then hop on your bike (or any other transportation you choose) and go to Engolasters Lake-Les Pardines Path. Take a minute to read the informative boards along the walk that describe the local plants and animals, or sit on one of the numerous seats and take in the scenery. You may also explore the pathways in the woods that branch off the main track. Because the trail is very lengthy, consider stopping for a snack at a café along the way, or carry food with you.
Admire the architecture and atmosphere at Santuario de Meritxell. This sanctuary has an Andorran Roman Catholic statue from the late 12th century showing the apparition of the Virgin Mary. It is generally regarded as an international spiritual and cultural attraction. Call ahead to confirm hours of operation and tour availability.
Then trek along Via Ferrata Roc del Quer, then snap some photos from Mirador del Roc del Quer, and finally trek along Pic de Casamanya.
- Backpacker:
- Budget:
- Mid-range:
- High end:
This section will be updated shortly.
By Cab
or
By Bus
Days 3+
Canello Continued
After a hearty breakfast starts with Soldeu – El Tarter, then admire the views from Pic de l’Estanyo, then spot plants and wildlife at Valle de Incles, and lastly pause for some quiet contemplation at the Church of Sant Joan de Caselles.
Days 4+
Head back home
After soaking up on the beautiful Andorran culture, have your breakfast and check out. You will likely be packing up your last bits and pieces (not forgetting your passport) and heading on your way to the bus station or on the road to cross the border.
The Most Popular Food in Andorra
Andorra has a diverse range of cuisines and flavors, with a cuisine that is greatly inspired by the country’s peculiar geography. The cuisine is primarily Catalan with French elements due to its proximity to these two nations. Andorran cuisine mixes Spanish and French cuisine with traditional regional specialties.
The cuisine in Andorra is the inheritor of a centuries-old heritage related to the fragrances and flavors of the mountains, which has always been centered on local food and seasonal goods prepared according to season and historically marked by self-sufficiency.
Cargols
Snails are popular not just in France, but also in Catalonia and Andorra. There are several methods to prepare them, but one of the most common in Andorra is cargols a la lluna, in which the snails are oven-roasted and served with olive oil, salt, and aioli (a garlic mayonnaise) or a paprika-infused vinaigrette.
Cunillo
Cunillo literally translates to “rabbit.” In Andorra, it is prepared in a number of ways, but the most frequent is stewed in a rich tomato sauce with onions and white wine or vinegar.
Cannelloni Andorrana
Cannelloni is a traditional Italian dish, but it is also popular in Catalonia and Andorra. Cannelloni in Andorra is made with minced lamb and chicken with a white béchamel sauce. Please keep in mind that it may contain pork, so inquire before you eat if you are a Muslim.
Trucha a la Andorrana
Despite being landlocked, Andorra has several clear rivers teeming with fresh fish, commonly trout. The air at such high elevations can be extremely beneficial to the respiratory system. But things improve. Consider the flavor of fresh-water trout caught in a beautiful, pure river produced by nature high in the Pyrenees mountains. These gleaming rivers are highly valued and are subject to government oversight (including fishing licenses).
So, lets be clear about that. While Andorrans consume a lot of beef, they also eat a lot of fish. This explains why Trucha a la Andorrana is a family favorite that is always presented in elegance. It’s a straightforward meal made with seasoned, grilled fish that’s commonly wrapped in ham. As an accompaniment, an almond sauce is created with parsley, hard cheese, white almonds, and extra virgin olive oil.
What's the Travel Budget in Andorra?
Flights
- Flights start at roughly $300 from nearby countries. Tickets however on average cost around $800 and can cost more depending on which class and from which country you depart from.
Accommodation
- Nomad Backpacking style travelers can expect to spend around $160 for a week
- Budget travelers can expect to spend around $350 for a week
- Mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $580 for a week
- Luxury travelers can expect to spend around $890 for a week
Food Budget (Three meals and drinks)
- Nomad Backpacking style travelers can expect to spend around $25 per person per day
- Budget travelers can expect to pay around $35 per person per day
- Mid-range travelers on average would cost $45 to $60 per person per day
- Luxury travelers can expect to pay around $100 to $120 per person per day
Overall Budget Styles (Not including Flights, Tours, Transportation, or Car Rental)
- Nomad Backpacking style travelers can expect to spend around $350 for a week
- Budget travelers can expect to spend around $620 for one person for a week
- Mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $1000 for one person for a week
- Luxury travelers can expect to spend around $1800 for one person for a week
Flights
- Flights start at roughly $300 from nearby countries. Tickets however on average cost around $800 and can cost more depending on which class and from which country you depart from.
Accommodation
- Nomad Backpacking style travelers can expect to spend around $160 for a week
- Budget travelers can expect to spend around $350 for a week
- Mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $580 for a week
- Luxury travelers can expect to spend around $890 for a week
Food Budget (Three meals and drinks)
- Nomad Backpacking style travelers can expect to spend around $25 per person per day
- Budget travelers can expect to pay around $35 per person per day
- Mid-range travelers on average would cost $45 to $60 per person per day
- Luxury travelers can expect to pay around $100 to $120 per person per day
Overall Budget Styles (Not including Flights, Tours, Transportation, or Car Rental)
- Nomad Backpacking style travelers can expect to spend around $350 for a week
- Budget travelers can expect to spend around $620 for one person for a week
- Mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $1000 for one person for a week
- Luxury travelers can expect to spend around $1800 for one person for a week
Flights
- Flights start at roughly $300 from nearby countries. Tickets however on average cost around $800 and can cost more depending on which class and from which country you depart from.
Accommodation
- Nomad Backpacking style travelers can expect to spend around $160 for a week
- Budget travelers can expect to spend around $350 for a week
- Mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $580 for a week
- Luxury travelers can expect to spend around $890 for a week
Food Budget (Three meals and drinks)
- Nomad Backpacking style travelers can expect to spend around $25 per person per day
- Budget travelers can expect to pay around $35 per person per day
- Mid-range travelers on average would cost $45 to $60 per person per day
- Luxury travelers can expect to pay around $100 to $120 per person per day
Overall Budget Styles (Not including Flights, Tours, Transportation, or Car Rental)
- Nomad Backpacking style travelers can expect to spend around $350 for a week
- Budget travelers can expect to spend around $620 for one person for a week
- Mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $1000 for one person for a week
- Luxury travelers can expect to spend around $1800 for one person for a week
Flights
- Flights start at roughly $300 from nearby countries. Tickets however on average cost around $800 and can cost more depending on which class and from which country you depart from.
Accommodation
- Nomad Backpacking style travelers can expect to spend around $160 for a week
- Budget travelers can expect to spend around $350 for a week
- Mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $580 for a week
- Luxury travelers can expect to spend around $890 for a week
Food Budget (Three meals and drinks)
- Nomad Backpacking style travelers can expect to spend around $25 per person per day
- Budget travelers can expect to pay around $35 per person per day
- Mid-range travelers on average would cost $45 to $60 per person per day
- Luxury travelers can expect to pay around $100 to $120 per person per day
Overall Budget Styles (Not including Flights, Tours, Transportation, or Car Rental)
- Nomad Backpacking style travelers can expect to spend around $350 for a week
- Budget travelers can expect to spend around $620 for one person for a week
- Mid-range travelers can expect to spend around $1000 for one person for a week
- Luxury travelers can expect to spend around $1800 for one person for a week
If you want to know what to pack, read this list below:
- This is a casual country that can get extremely cold, dress accordingly
- Raincoat or Light Waterproof Jacket
- Hiking Boots or Sturdy Sneakers (Shoes You Don’t Mind Getting Wet)
- Sunscreen
- Insect Protection – Repellent and Clothing
- Sunglasses and Sun Hat
- Water Shoes
- Beach Towels/Sarong
- Dry Bag
- Money Belt or Cross Bag
- Portable Medical Kit
- Flashlight or Headlamp
- Copies of your passport.
- Get all the needed vaccinations before traveling
- A power bank is a must in any travel.
- Always have some cash with you just in case there are no ATMs and if you are dealing with a business that solely accepts cash
- Get yourself an adapter for your gadgets
- 1 toothbrush
- 1 tube of toothpaste
- 1 razor
- 1 package of dental floss
- 1 small bottle of shampoo
- 1 small bottle of shower gel
- 1 towel
- Deodorant
- Band-Aids
- Hydrocortisone cream
- Antibacterial cream
- Earplugs
- Tylenol
- Hand sanitizer (germs = sick = bad holiday)
- A key or combination lock
- Zip-lock bags
- Plastic bags (great for laundry)
- Universal charger/adaptor
- LifeStraw (A water bottle with a purifier)
- 1 dry shampoo spray & talc powder
- 1 hairbrush
- Makeup you use
- Hairbands & hair clips
- Feminine hygiene products
Clothing For Boys
- 1 pair of jeans or khaki pants
- 1 pair of shorts
- 1 bathing suit
- 5 T-shirts
- 1 long-sleeved T-shirt
- 1 pair of flip-flops
- 1 pair of sneakers
- 6 pairs of socks
- 5 pairs of boxer shorts
Clothing For Girls
- 1 swimsuit
- 1 sarong
- 1 pair of stretchy jeans
- 1 pair of leggings
- 2-3 long-sleeve tops
- 2-3 T-shirts
- 3-4 spaghetti tops
- 1 light cardigan
Want to plan your own trip, here are some of the best resources that can help you
- Skyscanner – They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
- Momondo – This is another favorite flight search engine because they search such a wide variety of sites and airlines. Always check here too.
- Booking.com – The best all-around booking site that constantly provides the most affordable and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation.
- Couchsurfing – This website allows you to stay on people’s couches or spare rooms for free. It’s a great way to save money while meeting locals who can tell you the ins and outs of their city. The site also lists events you can attend to meet people (even if you’re not staying with someone).
- Intrepid Travel – If you want to do group tours, go with Intrepid. They offer good small group tours that use local operators and leave a small environmental footprint.
- Grassroots Volunteering – For volunteering, Grassroots Volunteering compiles a list of good local volunteer organizations that keep the money within the community.
- Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more! It has the world’s largest collection of things to do with more than 30,000 activities in 7500 destinations.
- SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
- Trip Advisor: Check the reviews and then book your accommodation. TripAdvisor is where you go when you want to compare prices with multiple accommodation providers.
- VRBO: is the main search engine to use when you are looking for a home or apartment rental. It can sometimes be cheaper than hotels and it is the best way to stay in areas that offer a more local feel.
- Hostelworld: With one of the largest databases of hostels in the world, Hostelworld is the go-to site when you are looking for budget accommodation.
- Rome 2 Rio: If you want to see how to get somewhere by plane, train, bus, ferry, or car Rome2Rio lays it all out for you as well as related costs.
- World Nomads Insurance: When traveling you should always have travel insurance. We have found the best bang for your buck is by far World Nomads.
Final Thoughts on Andorra
Andorra is definitely one beautiful tiny country that is worth traveling to. Would you?
If you’ve been to Andorra let us know how your trip was in the comments below.
