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The best things to do in Andorra and why you should visit

Best things to do in Andorra feature

This article was first published on December 4, 2014 and updated regularly, last in June 2020.

There is a tiny country between Spain and France most people, even well-traveled Europeans, don’t know about. Can you guess which one it is? Have you ever heard of it before? That’s right, in this article we will explore all the best things to do in Andorra.

Hopefully this article will help you understand where Andorra is and make you want to visit.

As the “ country in the mountains” (this used to be their slogan when I was a kid: “El Pais dels Pirineus”), Andorra’s tourism was always focused on its beautiful nature but there are certainly many other things to do in Andorra and I promise you, it is well worth a visit despite its tiny size.

Where is Andorra

andorra weekend trip

As you can se from the map of Andorra above, the Principality of Andorra is a landlocked country, a microstate to be precise, located in the Pyrenees mountain range surrounded by Spain and France.

With only 85,000 inhabitants, one third of which are residents, Andorra is one of the smallest countries in the world. Its political system is a peculiar co-headed model with shared powers between the Bishop of La Seu d’Urgell and the French President, officially turning him into a Prince.

History of Andorra

Andorra scenery

Legend has it that Andorra was created in 805 by Charlemagne as a recognition to the locals for their protection and fighting against the Moors but official documents show Andorra being created by Charles the Bald as a donation to the Count of Urgell. 

It is not until the middle of the 13th century that, after fighting for control by two Medieval Counts, a pariage agreement  was signed between them giving birth to the Principality of Andorra as a shared government, format which has endured until today.

From 1789 until 1806 Napoleon rejected France’s ties with Andorra because of their feudal origins and left Andorra to its full independence . And in 1806 these rights were recognised again.

andorra weekend trip

As a small and isolated country without an army, Andorra remained neutral throughout all the wars of the 20th century including the Spanish Civil War and the two World Wars.

Because of its strategic position in the middle of the two countries of Spain and France, Andorra was a transit zone for merchandise and items between them during all wars, and in particular during the Spanish Civil War and the dictatorship that followed.

The country’s constitution was only signed in 1993, maintaining the co-principality establishment, and expanding significantly on all other civil and human rights. This was also the year in which Andorra was admitted to the UN.

Today, Andorra is an underrated destination beyond the Spanish and French borders. You may be surprised to hear that Andorra receives over 10 million visitors, but they mostly come from the neighbouring countries, so it remains largely unknown to the rest of the European Union.

Andorra tourism is synonymous with skiing, hiking and mountains as its average elevation in 2,000m above sea level. Because of its small size and string ties with Spain and France, Andorra uses the euro as a de facto currency and previously accepted Spanish Pessetas and French Francs.

Although it is not part of the EU it enjoys a special relationship, which is why its historical tax haven status has been eroded as a result of mounting pressure. Both Catalan and French are official languages and spoken by the population although Spanish is spoken by almost everyone too.

Best time to visit Andorra

Andorra is an all-year-round destination , for real. Visit in the winter months and you will be able to ski and enjoy snow sports whereas in the summer time it is a great mountain, adventure and nature destination. 

Although snowfall can’t be predicted and changes every year, the ski season in Andorra usually starts around the first weekend of December when Spaniards have a long holiday on the 6th and the 8th of the month and take the opportunity to open the season.

Christmas is usually a very busy time in Andorra with lots of visitors coming to spend some time between Christmas and New Year or for the weekend in between.

Usually, snow lasts until March and spring is a lovely time to visit and enjoy nature’s awakening as is Autumn, when the changing of the leaves gives the country a warm hue.

Is Andorra worth visiting on a day-trip from Barcelona?

Mountain in Andorra

Short answer: Yes, absolutely !

And I say this after visiting literally dozens of times through the years, many many times, in winter, in summer, in spring, in autumn, I have been to Andorra more than 50 times, and at all times of the year and I would highly recommend you do the same, but I would not go to Andorra as a day trip from Barcelona , in my opinion, this would be a real shame.

Why should you not visit Andorra on a day trip from Barcelona?

Because what you get to see in Andorra on an organised day trip after a really long drive will not do justice to this tiny country and you will leave thinking it was not worth the time and the money.

Andorra is a place that deserves a couple of days, your own car and an openness of mind, so you have enough time to visit the churches and heritage, explore the stunning mountains and get to know a bit more about this intriguing and unique micro-state . And I say this after many many day trips myself!

When I read all the people who tell you they wasted their time on a day trip to Andorra I feel sad and sorry for them but I also strongly feel it is unfair.

Would you go to Saint Moritz for a day trip? Would you visit any of the small Swiss Alpine villages on a day trip that would require you to spend 5h driving? Would it be a fair assessment to say they were not worth it?

I think you know where I am going.

Trust me on this one, give Andorra a weekend and it will show you what it’s got !

One day in Andorra : If you only have one day and want to make it there, or if you are counting countries, then there is a day trip to Andorra from Barcelona you can book on Get Your Guide here . Or better yet, make it a day of nature with hiking in the mountains followed by a glamping night, you will see so many stars! Book it here .

And if you are combining your trip to Andorra with a stay in Barcelona, then you should save my articles on the city, like this  4 day itinerary to Barcelona , my guide to one day in Barcelona , this travel guide to Sitges near Barcelona, my complete guide to Sagrada Familia , or the best wineries near Barcelona . 

Best things to do in Andorra 

When we were kids, Andorra was a popular weekend road trip . At only a couple of hours from Barcelona it made for a refreshing getaway between nature and mountains and it was a place where we could buy goods that were not yet available in 80s and 90s Spain, just out of a 40 year dictatorship.

I am talking about Nutella and other non-essential items which were widely available in France, and hence Andorra. But Nutella and Hello Kitty are not the only reasons why Andorra was, and still is, a very appealing destination.

In the past, its duty-free and tax haven status made it the perfect destination for wealthy Spaniards looking to hide away their hard earned cash.

Most people would drive their cars for the weekend, or even just for the day, and come back home with groceries at a significantly cheaper price which more than compensated for the cost of the trip, or simply make a bank run.

For such a small country, Andorra packs in a lot of interesting sights and activities .

Wondering what to do in Andorra?

Here is a list of the best activities and some very convincing reasons to visit Andorra for your next vacation.

Go shopping

andorra weekend trip

Drawing in from its historical lack of VAT Andorra used to be a shopping paradise . Designer shops were all available, even when they were still not present in the Spanish market, making it a great destination for Christmas shopping. Large hypermarkets lined the road out of the country and into Spain which were always busy with visitors doing their grocery shopping. 

But things have changed quite a bit and now the city center of Escaldes, along Avinguda Carlemany, is mostly pedestrian, with shops and restaurants at either side. In Andorra La Vella, stop by the legendary Pyrenees department store where you can find all the major brands and continue along Avinguda Meritxell, which is the main artery which eventually merges into Carlemany after crossing the River Valira. 

However, don’t come expecting Prada, Gucci or Hermes, Andorra is about high street shopping at a slightly reduced price, not a haven for fashionistas.

Apart from groceries and apparel, Andorra used to produce tobacco and this was one of the items visitors would stock up on. Tobacco fields can still be seen and there is a tobacco museum you can visit too, more on that later.

Relax at the Caldea Spa Complex

andorra weekend trip

Located in the municipality of Escaldes Engordany, Caldea is a large natural spring complex with various indoor and outdoor swimming pools, jacuzzis and hydrotherapy sections spread over 18 floors in the highest building in Andorra and the largest thermal spa complex in Europe.

The complex has a separate section for adults called Inuu , and one for families and children, so it is a perfect place for everyone. No visit to Andorra would be complete without some time in Caldea. You can ask the  400,000 visitors who go every year.

andorra weekend trip

The spa area is made of glass so you can see outside and even watch the stars as the center is open until midnight. No better way to relax those sore muscles after all that skiing than spending some time in Caldea . There are also shows and performances including water and lights throughout the day and night and an outdoor jacuzzi.

You can enjoy a massage, visit the Turkish baths or simply relax after a long day of shopping or exercise at its many trails or ski resorts. The complex is in town and provides great views over the city and the valley. You can buy a 3h pass, a day pass or a multi-day pass and several hotels have packages including access.

Don’t let the flashiness of the place deter you, the thermal properties and natural springs are real . The spa is located above thermal waters and in a location where there was once a church, which is why it has this shape that resembles a church bell tower. 

The architect also wanted the structure to reflect the beauty of the valley it is in so it is covered in mirror glass that further amplified the location.

Winter sports and skiing in Andorra

Grandvalira map

Andorra lies at an average of 2,000 meters above sea level reaching 3,000 at its highest point, so it is basically a country in the mountains like Bhutan or Switzerland . In total, Andorra has 110 lifts able to carry 156,000 skiers per hour down the 303 km of runs.

Being so mountainous, winter sport opportunities abound. No doubt the ski resorts and snow are one of the main points of interest for most winter visitors. And the evenings by the fireplace too!

You can take the ski raquettes, a dog sledge, snowboard or simply ski. Because of its moderate elevation it is a popular destination for those looking to learn the sport.

About 10 years ago, two of the main resorts in the country merged to create Gran Valira , one of the largest ski resorts in the world with 118 slopes and 210 kilometers of ski pistes.

andorra weekend trip

You can even hire a helicopter and pilot for the day if you’re looking to really splurge on a bespoke ski or snowboard trip in the mountains.

The professional guide will take you on 2 downhills of approximately 1000 meters of descent each. Whether you’re new to heli-skiing or a veteran, there is surely no better way to experience the slopes of Andorra. You can book your heli-ski adventure online here .

Learn more about Romanesque architecture

andorra weekend trip

Romanesque art and architecture is part of the country’s past and visiting its many churches is one of the best things to do in Andorra.

Over 40 churches dating back to Medieval times can be explored on a simple road trip around the country. Andorra’s tradition and heritage is very present today and with such a small size, these can be visited on a day. However, be sure to plan accordingly using my map because the roads in Andorra are windy and distances take longer than expected.

Tip : It is best to visit the churches in the summer when some of them are open. In winter, almost all the small ones will be closed to tourists. Visit the tourism office as soon as you arrive in Andorra to find out opening times and possible tour. 

These are the churches I would recommend putting in your Andorra itinerary. 

Church of Sant Climent de Pal

andorra weekend trip

This is one of the oldest churches in Andorra and you can visit it as you also pay a visit to the  Romanesque Andorra Interpretation Centre  which is nearby.

The church dates back from the 11th or early 12th century and it has a three-storey bell tower with coloured glass windows. The altarpiece was dedicated to Pope Saint Clement of Rome and made in 1709.

Church of Sant Miquel d’Engolasters

andorra weekend trip

This church is right by the side of the road and is one of the most authentic Romanesque churches in Andorra, well known for its paintings and sculptural decorations and for having the original floor plan of the Romanesque churches in the country.

The most impressive element is the replica mural (the original is in the MNAC Museum in Barcelona), by the Master of Santa Coloma made in the 12th century.

The mural depicts a Maiestas Domini surrounded by a tetramorph in which the Archangel Michael, patron of the church, merges with the symbol of Saint Matthew. After or before visiting the church you can also explore the UNESCO-listed Madriu-Perafita-Claror Nature Park (more info further down).

Church of Sant Antoni de la Grella

Bridge leading to the Church of Sant Antoni de la Grella

A truly stunning location for this small church sandwiched between the mountain wall and the Valira d’Orient river and dedicated to Sant Antoni Abat who is the patron saint of muleteers.

The church seems to grow from the rock and is located where the rivers meet by the side of the main road. It was restored in the 20th century. 

Church of Santa Eulàlia d’Encamp

Church of Santa Eulàlia d’Encamp

The church’s colourful windows give it a great look and you can also visit The Holy Art Museum in an annexe building. The church still enjoys mass service and was refurbished in 1989.

Sant Marti de Nagol

andorra weekend trip

This tiny stone church precariously perched by the side of a hill as if growing from within is a feat of engineering. You can visit the church by climbing up the stairs that start by the main road in the village of Nagol in the parish of Sant Julia de Lloria, though it is probably about an hour’s steep hike. 

The church is very small and rectangular with a semicircular apse, as was typical of Romanesque architecture. It is believed that it dates back from the beginning of the 11th century but was restored in 1981 when excavation effort also uncovered a necropolis. Usually, the church is closed to visitors but you can still get u and close with its magnificent architecture and stunning location.

The church of Sant Serni de Nagol

The church of Sant Serni de Nagol

Small building with some paintings and the possibility to climb upstairs. There is a small cemetery by the church and wooden furniture is still there.

Savour rustic mountain food

andorra weekend trip

Andorra is well known for its rustic and incredibly tasty mountain cuisine and no trip to Andorra is complete without a stop at a “borda” for lunch . Bordas are old mountain barns cum restaurants and architectural masterpieces common of the Northern part of Catalunya and Andorra where winters are cold and the thick stone walls help protect from the snow and wind.

In a borda, you can expect meat based meals following traditional recipes, and filling portions. Food is prepared usually in an open fire and grilled meats are served with a generous amount of vegetables, potatoes and garlic allioli.

You can also order other delicacies such as stews, garlic snails “a la llauna” cooked in a tin tray in the oven which my father always used to order or horse meat, a traditional meat eaten in Andorra.

There are many bordas in worth a try and you definitely don’t want to leave without tasting some amazing food as this is indeed one of the best things to do in Andorra. Some that are recommended by my local friends and which I have tried and enjoyed are La Borda de l’Avi and Can Manel Restaurant .

Be one with nature while hiking or trekking 

andorra weekend trip

When the coastal parts of Barcelona where I am from become too hot to handle, the Pyrenees are the perfect getaway to the higher and cooler mountains and Andorra makes for a perfect escape.

The country offers untouched nature, mountain scenery and lakes some of which are easily accessible and attract many tourists who come here to enjoy the best thing to do in Andorra: hiking.

There are many hiking trails, most of which are properly marked with maps and signs. I will be talking about hiking at the UNESCO-listed Madriu Perafita Claroro Valley further down, but let’s have a look at other hiking trails in Andorra here.

Via Ferrata of Sant Vicenc d’Enclar

andorra weekend trip

This hiking path goes up hill to the top of the valley and offers incredible views that stretch towards Andorra La Vella. There is a quaint church at the top devoted to Sant Vicenc d’Enclar that is very scenic and adds a touch of magic. You can climb via the Via ferrata or take the regular hiking trail.

The trail is of medium difficulty and takes about 1,5h to 2h and ascends some 270m to reach 1,190m above sea level. You can park your car at the very bottom and then start the hike. There is a handy sign that points at the entrance and reminds you of all the emergency numbers. 

Incles Valley hiking

There are lots of hiking trails around Canillo and Incles Valley, a beautiful spot in the mountains. One of the highest peaks here are Siscaro and Escobes and a popular hike takes you to the lake of Juclar, the largest in Andorra.

Get Your Guide offers this hike with a guide plus lunch before and dinner after and a night at a borda making it a 2 day 1 night hike experience with plenty of free time on the morning after for exploring Andorra on foot. Book it here .

Sorteny Natural Park with snowshoes

andorra weekend trip

Have fun while hiking in the mountains in snowshoes! Get Your Guide has an afternoon hiking in the snow experience followed by a night at a borda or mountain cabin.

If you have never done it before, there is instruction at the beginning and a rewarding hearty meal, Andorran style, at the end. Book it here.  

Stay at an Iglu hotel

andorra weekend trip

Andorra, also has its own ice hotel . Built every year entirely from snow it can accommodate up to 30 guests in 5 rooms.

You are sleeping at 0 degree temperature so bring warm clothes. The hotel provides sleeping bags but I can’t imagine anyone would want to change into their pyjamas at any point.

Hike Andorra’s only UNESCO site

andorra weekend trip

Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is Andorra’s only UNESCO site. It is a glacial valley that serves as haven for many endemic species and is considered a spiritual place to the locals, without much development taking place.

The valley covers 9% of Andorra and is made of an upper glacial part with glacier lakes and sharp cliffs and a lower valley area. Most of the valley is protected and is a great example of human and nature living in harmony, which is why UNESCO considers the area a great example of this symbiosis.

There are many hiking trails in the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley but the easiest takes about 2h on a relatively steep well marked stone path, at times the path becomes stone steps. These paths were originally used by shepherds, later by smuggler and today by hikers. 

There are marked spots with panels and signs along the way which tell you more about what you see. You will also cross streams and stone bridges, beautiful scenery and well-kept forests.

'Stone bridges on the way to Bordes at Madriu Pedrafita Claror Valley

This path will take you up to the heart of the valley where you can see the former bordes, or stone houses, still in use today. These stone houses are located at 1,468m above sea level and it is believed that they date back to the 18th or 19th century, although there is no archeological find that confirms this.

The area has several dry stone walls that were used to contain the soil and create flat surfaces for agriculture. The stone path you will take to the get to the valley is also made of dry stone. The use of dry stone is an example of human-nature coexistence as no materials were used to put them together other than nature’s own resources.

Be suspended mid-air at the Viewpoint Roc del Quer

'Viewpoint Roc del Quer

Roc del Qur is a mountain range in Andorra that was foemed 85 million years ago when the Eurasian and the Iberian plates collided and created the Pyrenees and this peak. At the bottom of Roc del Quer lies the small parish of Canillo and at the top, a viewpoint.

Coming to this scenic point is one of the best things to do in Andorra. Not only will you get fantastic views but will also be able to learn about the country and its formation through the panels located under the viewpoint. There is also a cute frame for Instagram photos.

andorra weekend trip

The viewpoint is part on the mountain side and 12m of it are suspended over the valley below and gives breathtaking views of Andorra’s beautiful nature both from the edge as well as through the bottom glass openings. Yep, you heard it right, there is a small part of the bridge which has a glass bottom openings.

Next to the bridge is a bronze statue of a thinking man, Greek style, called The Ponderer by Miguel Ángel González. This statue symbolises the role of man, observer, who comes to the viewpoint to see the world below.

Make sure to walk down below for the panels I was mentioning above which are located on the wall and tell you about the formation of the mountain range and the origins of the Earth.

Visit museums

Yes, Andorra is not all just nature and churches, there are also a few worthy museums you can visit to learn more about some of the. things that make Andorra what it is. Also, museums are a great place to come if the weather suddenly turns sour and you want to stay indoors while also learning something you didn’t know.

Here is a list of the best museums to visit in Andorra.

Arenys Plandolit House

The Areny Plandolit family was one of the most prominent in Andorra’s history between the 17th and 20th century and the house where they resided is an emblematic building in the country.

The house was turned into an ethnographic museum of sorts in 1986 to display not only what is inside, which has been kept from the time when the family lived there including furniture and artefacts, but also because of its heritage value.

During your visit, you can lean about Andorran history and how the wealthy used to live. The house once housed the Natural Sciences Museum and is today an auditorium. You can also explore the beautiful gardens.

Tobacco Museum

The Tobacco Museum is one of the best places to see in Andorra and a fantastic place to come in winter if it gets too cold outside. It might sound unexpected, but Andorra has a long tradition of growing tobacco, and still does, and here you can learn all about it.

The museum is housed in the former Reig tobacco factory which closed down in 1957 and shows the process of tobacco making through a multimedia display. There is also a nice outdoors terrace for when the weather is good, and a souvenir shop. Don’t miss the chance to get to know the major source of income for the country before tourism.

Romanesque Interpretation Center

I mentioned it above, but if you are planning to visit the many Romanesque churches and chapels that dot the landscape it is best to start off at the Interpretation Center where you will get background on information on this architectural style so you can appreciate it better.

The museum also display objects from some of the churches and will tell you about the evolution of Romanesque in Andorra. With the 5 euro entry ticket you get a guided tour of the museum and the Church of Sant Climent de Pal which is next door. Bookings in advance are required with the reservation center. 

Opening times vary by month but the museum is closed from November to April. In May, June, September and October it opens from 10am to 2pm and from 3pm to 6pm. In July and August it closes at 7pm instead of 6pm

Museum Carmen Thyssen Andorra

The Thyssen Museum is the country’s only contemporary art museum and it is a great place to see in winter because it is still open. The museum showcases the private collection of Baroness Thyssen-Bornemisza which she amassed over the years with the help of her husband. Her collection is exhibited at some of the Thyssen spaces around Spain and Andorra and keeps changing.

The entry ticket includes an audio guide that tells you about each work. 

Go glamping and hiking (possible transfer from Barcelona)

While Andorra is all about rustic stone houses and beautiful settings, you can also have your dose of nature with a side of glamping, or glamurous camping. Borda Jaume, in the parish of Ordino, has a few glamping tents at 1,800m with all the comforts of a hotel but with a cozy setting. In winter, they are heated by a wooden fire. 

You can book a package which includes dinner and breakfast as well as an afternoon hiking in the Llorts area. You will cross streams, see lakes and observe the traditional way of life of mountain shepherds. You can also spot some of the local wildlife including eagles.

The package can be booked on Get Your Guide and you can opt to get your transfer from Andorra, if you are staying longer, or from Barcelona if you want to make this an escape into the mountains. Book it here.

Explore quaint towns and villages

Andorra is all about quaint tows, tiny villages and pretty hamlets. It is a small country and it is very dispersed, with small urban nucleus perched on the side of hills and mountains with barely any residents, sometimes non living full time. One of my most favorite things to do in Andorra is exploring these corners. It is likely you will be on your own.

Santa Coloma

'Santa Coloma Church

Santa Coloma is not necessarily a small town though it is not a city either. Start with its church which has a round Lombard Romanesque bell tower and is prominently located at the entrance to the town by the parking lot. The building has a pre-Romanesque structure and inside there is a wooden Romanesque image of Our Lady of Good Remedy.

Stroll the village on foot, and realise that most of its old looking streets date back to the 18th century. You can also follow the path towards Roureda de la Margineda archeological site, where you can find the rock shelter where Andorra’s first inhabitants lived 12,000 years ago. Look out for the Torre dels Russos, or Russian Tower.

Visit the church from Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 2pm and from 3pm to 6pm for a peak into a mapping video projection on its origins.

andorra weekend trip

Known for the ski resort of the same name, the Parish of Ordino is another pretty little town on the way to the mountains. One of the highlights is Arenys Plandolit House but also its pretty church dedicated to Sant Cornelius and Sant Cebrià which is open to the public and houses a 12th century image of the Virgin of Remedy. The church was originally built in Medieval times but refurbished and remodelled in the 17th and 19th centuries.

The majority of the streets of Ordino are still made of stone, in particular Major Street with its bars and terraces open in the summer with outdoor seating. Make sure to stroll along the river which crosses the town and get lost in its tiny alleys. 

At the Major Square, look out for a stone column that was used to tie prisoners and those who had committed a crime so everyone could see them.

andorra weekend trip

This tiny little village on top of a mountain is the quintessential mountain village with just a handful of houses perched by the side of the mountain and barely any people or cars, it does not get any more idyllic than this.

The stone and wood houses with the typical Andorran design are so pretty. Look out for one with the facade covered in iron keys. This is the oldest house in the village and was built in 875. Legend has it that this house was inhabited by a priest who would mediate between neighbourhood disputes. He is said to have given the keys to Haven to those who were able to resolve them

Visit an old hydroelectric power plant

andorra weekend trip

Did you ever wonder how electricity is made? Are you interested to learn how hydroelectric power works?

Engolastres has a former hydroelectric plant built in at 1,600m above sea level in 1934 along with a Dam of the same name that was used in the past to generate power. While the plant is not in use anymore, you can still see the old guard house and the funicular and in the summer months, the Museum of Electricity is open to the public and offers 1.5h guided tours.

andorra weekend trip

If you are visiting Andorra during the colder months, it is still worth it to come here because the dam is surrounded by towering pine trees and you can walk around it and see he funicular which is in the open behind the guard house. There are paths to have a stroll and a restaurant with facilities. In winter, the top layer of the dam freezes over.

Tour cost 5 euro and are available May, June, September and October on Saturday at 11am and 3pm. In July on Saturdays at 10am, 12pm, 3pm and 5pm and on Sundays at 10am, 12pm and 3pm. From the fourth week of July until the end of August, tours run from Tuesday to Sunday at 10am, 12pm, 3pm and 5pm and Saturday at 11am and 3pm. There is parking available by the museum.

Have fun at Naturlandia

andorra weekend trip

Naturlandia is Andorra’s response to a theme park. Instead of rides and roller coasters, the park offers active adventures, hiking and trekking, restaurants and all sorts of activities making it one of the most fun things to do in Andorra.

Split into two sections, one at 1600m above sea level and one at 2,000m and connected by road, the park is in Sant Julia de Lloria, about 15min from Andorra La Vella. It is open all year round, though the activities vary by season.

You can go on hiking, Segway, bicycle, snowmobile or buggy tours around, all come in child and adult sizes. There are trampolines, zip lines, bouncy castles, tobotronics and tubbing. Little ones have children workshops and other activities and adults can go on night snowmobile adventures.

The animal enclosures are located at 2,000m and host species that are typical of the Pyrenees area including wild goats, bears, lynx, deer, wolfs, etc. Animals can be observed from specific points by following a path. During the winter time, snow rackets are required to walk the perimeter of the enclosure. There is also a farm area with domestic animals like pigs. 

Beware, although the area meet the EU standards, they still showcase animals in an enclosure, instead of in the wild, so think if that is what you want to do. Some of these animals would have a huge territory in the wild whereas here they are constrained to a smaller space.

Some of the activities are included in the price while others need to be booked. The park opens from and you can see what activities are available live on the website, along with webcam images.

Explore Andorra La Vella

The capital of Andorra, Andorra La Vella, has a few quaint spots to take in and is well worth a couple of hours. Here are the places you need to visit.

Casa de la Vall

andorra weekend trip

La Casa de la Vall translating to the House of the valley in Catalan, is the home of the former Andorran government. Dating back to the 16th century (the date is engraved on top of the main door), the building is open to visits and offers guided tours where you can learn more not just about the building but also about the country as this is the closest you will get to a national history museum.

La Casa de la Vall was built by a vicar from La Seu d’Urgell in 1580 and their shield is on top of the main gate, and was acquired by the government in 1701 who started to use it as the home of the government until 2011 when it moved to a new building. 

Don’t miss a visit where you can see the original and intricate Criminal Court, the building is quite impressive inside.

More information here .

Take a photo with the Andorra sign

andorra weekend trip

Along Avinguda Carlemany you can shop to your heart’s content from perfume to clothing, from tobacco to alcohol, from jewelry to toys, but there is also a funky looking fushia pink sign spelling Andorrawhere you can take fun photos alone or with friends and family.

Admire the stained glass at Esglesia de Sant Esteve

andorra weekend trip

This old-looking church in the downtown of Andorra La Vella makes for picturesque photos but is mostly new except for the original Romanesque apse and the stained glass which lets in beautiful light. Located near the Placa del poble and the Casa de la Vall, this is a working church with regular service.

See the views from Placa del poble

andorra weekend trip

This square is the main meeting point for festivals and celebrations in the country and gives panoramic views over the city. In December, you can enjoy a fun and cozy Chritstman market with handmade products, sweets and artisan foods on sale that makes for a great evening.

Tip : There is a lift that goes from the top of the square to the bottom street below by the government building.

Spot La noblesse du temps

andorra weekend trip

You will recognise this well known piece of art as soon as you see it. Placed by the river, in the bridge that connects Avinguda Meritxell in Andorra la Vella with Escaldes, La noblesse du temps is a sculpture by famous Dali that involves his usual melting clocks.

How to get to Andorra

Andorra has no airport and is only accessible by road . It is one of the few countries in the world which is landlocked and only accessible via roads through other countries. In fact, the other four countries without airports are also in Europe and are also micro-states, Monaco , The Vatican, Liechtenstein and San Marino. So you can get here on an epic road trip across Europe .

There are four international airports within 200km from Andorra so you can pick: Toulouse-Blagnac (TLS), Carcassonne (CCF), Girona -Costa Brava (GRO), Barcelona-El Prat (BCN) and Reus (REU).

I would then suggest to rent a car from any of these and drive. The drive should be easy with good roads. The easiest airport is probably Barcelona, and you can easily combine it with some time in the city .

Getting from Barcelona to Andorra is really easy as the roads are pretty straightforward. Here is a Google map showing the route.

Bear in mind you have two options , either a paid tunnel road which will cut your time down, or the regular national road which will save you the toll. As kids we always took the regular road as the tunnel was not built until later, but the tunnel makes a lot of sense so the drive is more comfortable.

On the way, I highly recommend you stop for food. I always drove to Andorra very early in the morning and we stopped on the way for breakfast at one of the roadside restaurants serving hearty breakfast meals including omelets, sausages and even wine with rustic bread from the local bakery and great produce.

If you have a valid visa for Spain and France you will be able to visit Andorra as there are free movement agreements in place. Most times, you may no even have to stop and show your passport.

Best Hotels in Andorra

Tourism, especially during winter, is one of the most important revenue sources for Andorra, so it should come as no surprise that the hospitality industry has years of experience welcoming guests and that there are a fair amount of ski hotels in Andorra.

However, like all other mountain countries such as Switzerland or Austria, Andorra is also a great destination in the summer months where basing yourself in the city center might make more sense.

So I decided to split this list between Andorra La Vella hotels, which includes other urban centers like Escaldes-Engordany, and hotels in Andorra ski resorts which are particularly convenient if you do not want to be stuck in traffic in and out of the slopes on the narrow one-lane mountain roads.

Hotels in the city center of Andorra

Staying in town is a great alternative to explore all the things to do in Andorra. This will give you the chance to try lots of restaurants and enjoy the happening nightlife as well, although Andorra is not big the roads are winding and 15 kms can take half an hour or more to drive. 

Roc De Caldes

andorra weekend trip

Roc De Caldes is probably slightly below in category than the other hotels here, despite having the same 5 star rating.

The hotel is traditional in design , reminiscent of what Andorra was like when I was a kid and their website is rather hard to navigate with little information, so you are definitively better off using a booking site. But it is probably this that makes it a warm and charming option.

Its location, slightly off the main city center and by greenery, makes it a great option when you are coming in the summer time and makes it quieter although still relatively close to the center of Escaldes-Engordany (where Caldea is), not Andorra La Vella.

The hotel’s restaurant is a good option to try some of the more local dishes.

Book your stay on Booking.com | Agoda

Eurostars Andorra

andorra weekend trip

Perfectly located in the middle of Andorra La Vella very near Pyrenees on Avinguda Meritxell, the Eurostars Andorra is as good as a hotel location can be. Once you park the car, you can walk everywhere in town, which comes in handy since parking and traffic can be pretty bad.

The hotel is 4 stars and offers good value for money. Rooms are comfortable and convenient, breakfast is quite decent and abundant. Suites come with a separate living room with a sofa bed for the kids and there is a public parking within meters that is 20 euros per day. You can pay by the hour. 

Andorra Park Hotel

Andorra Park Hotel eating area

Located in a residential area, Andorra Park Hotel is one of the best Andorra La Vella hotels . Andorra Park hotel is surrounded by 15,000 square meters of gardens and greenery giving guests the feeling of being among nature.

The hotel is modern and luxurious and, like other hotels in this category in Andorra, comes with in-room jacuzzi and some of them have balconies facing the gardens or the pool.

Despite being more of an “uban” hotel, there is a free shuttle to Granvalira for guests and a stunning outdoor pool surrounded by a grassy and tree-filled area that will make you feel far away from civilisation.

Dining in is a good option as the hotel’s restaurant, Es Andorra , comes highly recommended for trying out the local cuisine.

Hotel Plaza

Hotel Plaza Andorra bar

Classic English design in this luxury hotel in the downtown of Andorra La Vella that is consistently rated as one of the best hotels in Andorra . Its location is one of the best if you want to be able to walk around the city or go for dinner without having to drive.

The rooms have a more convenitonal mountain retreat feel and some of the the deluxe ones have a jacuzzi bathtub.

The facilities include a wellness area with Hammam, Sauna, Jacuzzi, crystal fountain and thermal facilities and a fully equipped spa.

Ski hotels in Andorra

Most people will go to Andorra to enjoy winter sports and with good reason since Granvalira is the largest ski resort in Europe, so there is plenty for everyone. As expected, there are also a couple of luxury hotels in Andorra’s ski resorts and I listed the top two below.

Hotel Ski Plaza & Wellness

Ski Plaza Hotel foyer

Part of the same hospitality group as The Plaza in Andorra La Vella, the Ski Plaza & Wellness is a mountain retreat located in the traditional parish of Canillo , 100m from the cablecar to Granvalira.

The hotel is warm, cozy and designed for the winter months with fireplaces and sun-in leather sofas. The restaurant has a wall mural depicting rural scenes of life in Andorra, vintage cuckoo clocks and all the details to make you feel like you are high in the mountains when it is cold outside.

Rooms are comfortable and traditional and the family rooms come with fun bunk beds for children.

The hotel is perfect for kids, with many details throughout the property targeted at making them feel loved and cared for including separate dining areas in the restaurant.

Sport Hotel Hermitage and Spa

andorra weekend trip

Sport Hotel Hermitage and Spa is located at 1,800m above sea level in the village of Soldeu , very near the Grandvalira ski slopes . This is the country’s only member of the Leading Hotels of the World  brand and one of the most luxurious ski resorts, equally interesting if you like summer sports and mountains.

The resort is also made of a 4 and 3 star hotel sharing facilities and a 5,000 square meter spa and wellness resort. All 143 rooms have their own hot tub and free access to the spa for 3h a day. The resort features the Hermitage Mountain Residences that can accommodate groups of up to 16 guests together in a 5 floor villa.

Expect the design to be mountain chic with lots of wood, sleek lines and warm interiors reminiscent of The Chedi Andermatt or other luxury Swiss Accommodation. The resort features two restaurants with Michelin-awarded chefs, the Catalan Nandu Jubany and the Japanese Hideki Matsuhisa .

This would be a great addition to any of your #travel Pinterest boards

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Daniela Santos Araújo

1 Day In Andorra La Vella: The Perfect Andorra La Vella Itinerary

Andorra la Vella is the capital of the Principality of Andorra (in Catalan, Principat d’Andorra), a microstate situated between France and Spain , right in the heart of the Pyrenees. Due to its location at an altitude of 1023 meters, the city is known as “the highest capital in Europe”.

Interestingly, the name “la Vella” means “the Town” and not “the Old”, having been added to distinguish the city from the homonymous country, as well as to reinforce the fact that it’s its capital. On this Andorra la Vella itinerary, you’ll discover tourist attractions and cultural activities, including the best things to do in Andorra la Vella!

So, do you want to know more about 1 Day In Andorra La Vella: The Perfect Andorra La Vella Itinerary? Keep reading!

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Andorra la Vella Itinerary

Parc Central

Brief history of andorra la vella.

Legend has it that Andorra was founded by the Roman Emperor Charlemagne in the year 805 AD. But written documents suggest that, in the mid-9th century, the parishes of Andorra belonged to the County of Urgel (one of the historic counties of Catalonia).

Whether you believe in popular legends or historical references, the truth is that the Andorran territory was highly disputed during much of the Middle Ages – which is why there are so many forts, towers, and churches from that period (especially in the Romanesque style).

andorra weekend trip

The most important of these conflicts for dominance and power was fought between the Bishops of Urgel and the Counts of Foix from the 13th century onwards. However, the two parties signed a peace agreement on September 8th, 1278 – the “Pariatge d’Andorra” – which is the genesis of the country as a co-principality and Andorra la Vella as its capital.

Not everyone knows, but even today, Andorra is ruled by two co-princes: the Bishop of Urgel and the President of the French Republic!

Visiting Andorra la Vella

Did you know that you can visit Andorra la Vella on a day trip from  Barcelona ? Although the bus trip takes between 3 and 4 hours, the connection is direct and the landscapes are breathtaking! And if you arrive in Andorra la Vella relatively early, you’ll still have time to explore the Les Escaldes area, in the neighboring parish of Escaldes-Engordany !

andorra weekend trip

Andorra la Vella Itinerary

“7 poetes”.

This Andorra la Vella itinerary starts at Plaça Lidia Armengol (also called Plaça dels 7 Poetes), a square about 250 meters from the Estació Nacional d’Autobusos de Andorra . This is where you can admire “7 Poets” (in Catalan, “7 Poetes”), a sculptural ensemble created by the renowned Catalan artist Jaume Plensa .

andorra weekend trip

Inspired by the stylites of the Byzantine Empire, these seven human figures are, at the same time, a tribute to the seven Parishes of Andorra (in Catalan, Parròquies d’Andorra): Canillo, Encamp, Ordino, La Massana, Andorra la Vella, Sant Julià de Lòria, and Escaldes-Engordany !

Casa de la Vall

The  Casa de la Vall  (House of the Valley, in English) is one of the most important buildings in Andorran civil architecture and one of the most symbolic and characteristic monuments of the Principality. Constructed in 1580, this old manor house served as a residence for the Busquets family until 1702 – the year in which it became the seat of the General Council of Andorra.

andorra weekend trip

In 2011 and after more than three centuries, the Parliament of Andorra moved to a new building and the Casa de la Vall opened to the public as a history museum. Even so, this historic property continues to host the most formal events in the small European country!

Read my complete guide to the  Casa de la Vall , a must-see tourist attraction on any Andorra la Vella itinerary!

Església de Sant Esteve

The next stop on this Andorra la Vella itinerary is probably the most famous tourist attraction in the city. I’m talking about the Church of Saint Esteve (in Catalan, Església de Sant Esteve), located in Plaça del Príncep Benlloch and that appears on most postcards from Andorra la Vella!

andorra weekend trip

Constructed in the 12th century, this Romanesque-style church was expanded and modified on different occasions. One of the most notable changes took place about a century later and culminated in the Romanesque semicircular apse, decorated in the Lombard style and considered the largest in the country. The last major intervention was carried out in the 1940s, by the architect Josep Puig i Cadalfach (one of the greatest exponents of Catalan Modernism)!

andorra weekend trip

After entering the Church of Saint Esteve to contemplate elements such as the two Baroque altarpieces or the Romanesque polychrome wooden beam, I suggest you head to Rambla Molines, the small high street that gives access to Plaça del Poble (the best viewpoint in Andorra la Vella)! From here you’ll have privileged views of the Catholic temple and unique opportunities for panoramic photographs of the surrounding mountainous landscape.

Pyrénées Andorra

Despite having less than 20 thousand inhabitants, the city of Andorra la Vella receives more than 10 million tourists. And it’s no secret that a large part goes to the ski resorts, as Andorra is one of the best winter destinations in Europe.

Nevertheless, many also visit Andorra la Vella for shopping. After all, international brands are tax-free in Andorra!

andorra weekend trip

Since tourism and commerce are the main economic activities in Andorra, it’s natural that you’ll find dozens of shops selling clothes, footwear, make-up, perfumes, jewelry, technology, decoration, etc. The best known are concentrated on Avinguda Meritxell, especially in large department stores such as the Pyrènèes Andorra !

“La Noblesse du Temps”

Andorra la Vella is a very small capital – when compared to other European capitals – but it has an impressive number of contemporary sculptures, wall paintings, and art installations, scattered throughout different tourist spots in the city.

Besides the “7 Poets”, the most famous sculpture in Andorra la Vella is “La Noblesse du Temps” (or “The Nobility of Time”, in English), created by the Catalan surrealist artist Salvador Dalí in 1977.

andorra weekend trip

This monumental bronze work symbolizes the passage of time and its dominion over mankind. After being ceded to the Government of Andorra in 1999, “The Nobility of Time” was placed in the Plaça de la Rotonda in 2010, where it now has permanent residence.

Pont de París

The Paris Bridge (in Catalan, Pont de París) is a suspension bridge that crosses the Valira River and connects the Avinguda Doctor Mitjavila with the Avinguda Consell d’Europa.

Designed in 2005 by Spanish civil engineers Leonardo Fernández Troyano and Guillermo Ayuso Calle, the Paris Bridge is an avant-garde work with a straight branch (45 meters) and a semicircular branch (27 meters).

andorra weekend trip

Other architectural details that stand out in this modern construction are the two triangular structures, crowned by two steel spheres measuring 2.20 meters in diameter.

Take advantage of your stop at the Plaça de la Rotonda to also photograph the letters of Andorra la Vella on the Paris Bridge, which lights up at night!

Avinguda Meritxell

Meritxell Avenue (in Catalan, Avinguda Meritxell) is the main avenue in the Andorran capital and has already been mentioned in this Andorra la Vella itinerary. Named in honor of the Virgin of Meritxell (the patron saint of Andorra), Meritxell Avenue is home to a vast number of hotels, shops, restaurants, banks, pharmacies, and supermarkets.

andorra weekend trip

Just over 1 km long, the Meritxell Avenue starts at the Plaça Rebés (next to the historic center of Andorra la Vella) and ends at the Avinguda de Carlemany – the latter already located in the parish of Escaldes-Engordany . The last 400 meters, between the Plaça de la Rotonda and the Carrer de la Unió, are a pedestrian-only area.

The last point of interest on this Andorra la Vella itinerary is Central Park (in Catalan, Parc Central), the city’s green park. I choose to leave it for the end of this “1 Day in Andorra” because it’s just 300 meters from the National Bus Station of Andorra!

andorra weekend trip

Developed on the south bank of the Valira River, the Central Park of Andorra la Vella has an artificial lake with ducks, a large playground, and a restaurant bar called La Petite Fôret , as well as a series of trails perfect for hiking and jogging.

Map of the Andorra la Vella Itinerary

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  • Camera Body: Fujifilm X-T4 Mirrorless
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2 thoughts on “1 Day In Andorra La Vella: The Perfect Andorra La Vella Itinerary”

andorra weekend trip

I recently visited Andorra and had an incredible time! The country is absolutely stunning, with gorgeous alpine scenery and top-notch ski resorts. The food was delicious and the shopping was unbeatable. I would highly recommend Andorra to anyone looking for a beautiful and unique vacation spot.

andorra weekend trip

Hi Alice, I’m so glad you agree with me! I had the best time in Andorra la Vella and Escaldes-Engordany, both cities are GORGEOUS! 🙂

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The Perfect One Day in Andorra Itinerary

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Andorra, the small country nestled in the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain, is an absolute delight for both culture and nature lovers. From stunning scenery to unique cultural experiences and outdoor activities, this European microstate is a must-visit. This guide for one day in Andorra itinerary will show you just some of what this tiny nation has to offer!

The capital city is Andorra la Vella, and exploring this region is an enchanting experience, with natural parks and medieval villages at every turn. As you draw nearer to the border, you will love the views of the Pyrenees Mountain range as far as your eyes can see!

One Day in Andorra la Vella Itinerary: The Best Andorra Itinerary

andorra weekend trip

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.

At a glance, here are the things to do in Andorra in one day. We have also included planning tips and a Google Map to make you navigate this little European country.

One day in Andorra Itinerary

  • Wander the capital city of Andorra la Vella
  • Visit Santa Coloma Church 
  • Check off Església de Sant Esteve
  • Explore La Casa de la Vall
  • Easy hike to soak in the views of the Pyrenees Mountains
  • Rest for lunch and go shopping at Avinguda Meritxell
  • Snap a photo of La Noblesse du Temps or The Nobility of Time
  • Check off Pont de París
  • Sign off for the day at Parc Central

What and where is Andorra la Vella located

Andorra is a European microstate with a population of 82,100 (2023). European microstates are small sovereign states in the continent (and there are seven of them). 

Officially known as the Principality of Andorra, this mountain nation is administered by the Bishop of Urgell and the President of France who serves as co-princes of the microstate.

The origins of the name ‘Andorra’ is unknown. But it has a long and fascinating history stretching back thousands of years. It is believed that in the middle ages, Charlemagne, the French ruler established Andorra as a defensive buffer state. 

Then the first Paréage of Andorra (a feudal charter) was signed in 1278 which allowed joint rulership of Spain’s Count of Foix and France’s Bishop of Urgell. This arrangement lasted until 1993 when the country became a parliamentary democracy and adopted its own constitution. 

Today, Andorra is an independent nation with a thriving tourism industry. 

A landlocked country, Andorra is located in the heart of the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain. The official language is Catalan (which is spoken in Spain), and their currency is Euro. 

Andorra is not a member of the European Union, nor does it follow the Schengen agreement. You don’t require any type of visa to get here. 

Getting to Andorra la Vella

Andorra is a landlocked country. Being landlocked you can have to either travel to Spain or France (both EU/Schengen members) and then drive/ take a bus/tour to arrive in Andorra. 

Keep in mind the only way to get to Andorra is by road – by driving, car, bus, tour , etc. There are no airports, train stations in this tiny country. 

Barcelona to Andorra

Getting to Andorra from Barcelona is a relatively easy journey. There are several transportation options available, depending on your budget and timeline.

We traveled to Andorra from Barcelona, and here is a detailed guide: Day trip to Andorra from Barcelona

The easiest way to travel to Andorra from Barcelona is by renting a car, and the trip will take about 2 and a half hours (one way). 

Without renting a car you can get to Andorra by bus. There are numerous regular daily services that depart from bus stations across Barcelona to the capital of Andorra la Vella. And it takes about 3 hours to complete the trip. 

Additionally, the journey is usually quite affordable and tickets can be purchased in advance online (around 17 to 20 euros).

The most convenient way to explore Andorra is to join a guided tour. There is a small group tour where you can explore – Three Countries in one single day. 

The day tours leave from Barcelona, with stops in Baga and then they cover France and Andorra on a single trip. You can find more information here about the guided tour

Highly recommend a private tour if you prefer a pick-up and drop-off from your Barcelona hotel. More details here

Day trip to Andorra from Toulouse

Getting from Toulouse to Andorra is also relatively easy and straightforward. 

The convenient way to get to Andorra la Vella is by train. The fastest trains operate from Toulouse to L’Hospitalet-près-l’Andorre (near Andorra) and it takes 2 hours and 16 minutes. 

By driving it takes less than 3 hours. 

There is also a direct bus service from Toulouse Central Bus Station station to Andorra la Vella Bus Station station. Bus journeys take about 4 hours. 

If you’re looking to save money, then taking a bus may be the best option. There are numerous direct bus services that depart from Toulouse regularly. 

One Day in Andorra Itinerary: Sightseeing Stops

1. wander the capital city of andorra la vella.

Kickstart your one day in Andorra itinerary at the capital city. Make time to wander the old town of Andorra la Vella, and explore quaint streets and cafes.

We recommend checking off the main attractions first and then spending time at Parc Central, or going shopping. 

2. Visit Santa Coloma Church 

Church of Santa Coloma d’Andorra is the oldest church in the country and is a recognized Cultural Heritage of Andorra. The church is dedicated to Columba of Sens, the patron saint of Andorra.

Located in the heart of Andorra la Vella, this beautiful church is filled with centuries of history and culture. 

The church was built between the 8th and 9th centuries as a Romanesque fortress and later transformed into a Gothic masterpiece. 

Inside the church, you will find wonderful stone facades, colorful stained glass windows, and a grand altar.

Santa Coloma Church also has a rich cultural history, as it was once home to many of Andorra’s most important documents. 

There is a small museum in the church that is worth visiting. The museum showcases informative videos and displays rare artifacts. 

3. Check off Església de Sant Esteve

One of Andorra’s most iconic attractions is the Església de Sant Esteve or Church of Saint Stephen. This stunning Romanesque church dates back to the 11th century or the 12th century and is considered one of the oldest buildings in the country. 

The church underwent major work and was modified in the 20th century. Much of the mural paintings from the building went to Catalonia National Art Museum in Barcelona and two private collections.

Today, Església de Sant Esteve is a popular destination in Andorra and allows free entry into the complex. 

Its exterior features an impressive semi-circular apse with original Lombardian decoration, and the bell tower and Romanesque tower. 

Inside the church, you will find baroque altarpieces and paintings such as the Painting of the Souls. 

4. Explore La Casa de la Vall

After taking in some of the local cultures, move on to Casa de la Vall, a 16th-century stately home, which was the seat of Andorra’s Parliament – Consell General. This is where all the functions of the Andorran government took place. 

Today, it is a registered Cultural Heritage of Andorra.

Spend some time walking through the building and admiring its architecture before heading out to explore more of what this country has to offer. 

Entry is about 5 euros. You can also join a guided tour of Casa de la Vall, and learn about its history. 

5. Easy hike to soak in the views of the Pyrenees Mountains

If you’re looking for a beautiful and easy journey to take in the Pyrenees not far from Andorra la Vella, then opt for this hike – Agulles d’Engolasters Climbing Wall. This trip is perfect for hikers of all levels, and only takes about 30 minutes to complete. 

At the end of your exploration, spectacular sights of the Valley of Andorra will reward all your efforts! 

andorra weekend trip

Another option is to embark on the Tristaina Lake Trail, which is an easy 4 km (2.5 km) route. The trail goes through multiple mountain lakes, and scenic views making it a perfect place to take a leisurely stroll or a hike. 

Take your time exploring this incredible area and enjoying the breathtaking views of the Pyrenees Mountains. We recommend hiking, only if you are driving here – so that you can save time on your one day Andorra itinerary. 

6. Rest for lunch and go shopping at Avinguda Meritxell

Break for a bit, and rest your legs. 

Have lunch and then go (window) shopping at the Avinguda Meritxell in the city center. This bustling avenue is the main commercial centre of the capital city and is home to hundreds of shops, bars, and restaurants.

The most prominent feature of Avinguda Meritxell is that it is a pedestrian zone that’s lined with stores selling everything from apparel and footwear to souvenirs and jewelry. 

You can also find duty-free shops offering products at unbeatable prices here.

Due to its central location, Avinguda Meritxell is always bustling with people, making it the perfect place for people-watching. So, if you’re looking for a great shopping experience in Andorra, make sure to head to Avinguda Meritxell!

7. Snap a photo of La Noblesse du Temps or The Nobility of Time

The renowned artist Salvador Dali crafted the 1,400-kilogram bronze sculpture – La Noblesse du Temps – an emblem of time’s power over mankind, in Andorra! 

The sculpture stands 4.90 meters tall. This monumental work illustrates how temporal forces are ever-present and cannot be conquered by humanity no matter its ambition or strength (like time).

Art aficionados from around the world come to Andorra just to marvel at Salvador Dali’s awe-inspiring work of genius. 

Keep in mind that you’ll likely need to stand in line for a while before being able to snap your perfect picture! Thankfully during our trip, it was pretty empty!

8. Check off Pont de París

A short walk from the sculpture is a small bridge that is iconic in the city. Called the Pont de Paris – this captivating bridge crosses over the Valira River in Andorra la Vella. 

The Pont de Paris was dedicated in 2006 in the presence of the Deputy Mayor of Paris (Anne Hidalgo). The bridge is a popular spot for taking pictures and admiring the views of the river below.

You can walk in and around the bridge, then stop for coffee in one of the cafes nearby. 

9. Sign off for the day at Parc Central

Make your way to Parc Central. This is a green park located in the capital city. Enjoy a nice walk/stroll before making your way back. 

In the late evening, there are structures that are illuminated inside the park making it all pretty!

If you have a little more energy left, we recommend stopping at the 7 Poets statues. 

The ‘7 Poets’ stand majestically in the front yard of Andorra’s Commune administration building. This set of sculptures is elevated from the ground and represents each one of the seven parishes of Andorra. 

We left this for the end as the statues are illuminated by night. They will be an awe-inspiring reminder of your time in this small mountain country.

Expanding your trip to 2 days in Andorra Itinerary

If you have additional time on your hands, we recommend visiting the Caldea Spa Complex. Here you can spend 3-4 hours unwinding in one of its many thermal baths or taking advantage of its spa treatments.

Here are some museums that you can add to your 2 day Andorra itinerary as well – Postal Museum of Andorra, and Andorra Tobacco Museum (in the town of Santa Julia de Loria).

You can also go on hikes, or just drive around the nearby ski towns. We visited in the fall months and unfortunately, there was no snow, but we stepped into ski resorts and checked them off. 

If you want to extend your road trip, you can visit Pal-Arinsal, a ski town. This ski resort town is open 10 months a year and it offers plenty of winter activities such as snowmobiling, ice skating, and skiing. 

Encamp town in Andorra and cable car for lifting skiers and snowboarders to the top of the mountain

Another cute Andorran ski town is El Pas de la Casa with views of Pyrenees mountains. It offers scenic sights of the Pas de la Casa mountain pass. 

And in the winter you can also hit the slopes of Encamp, Canillo, and Soldeu. 

In the evening on day 2, return to Andorra la Vella for dinner at one of its many restaurants. Afterward, enjoy some nightlife and explore the city’s thriving bar scene. 

Where to stay in Andorra la Vella

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay in Andorra, it can be difficult to make a choice. 

There are many great accommodation options available throughout the country, depending on your budget and travel needs. 

Here are four of the top hotels in Andorra that you should consider for your next vacation:

Andorra Park Hotel:

Andorra Park Hotel is a luxurious five-star accommodation in the city center. This property features gorgeous views of the mountains and the hotel interiors match up to it. There is a seasonal outdoor swimming pool, a fitness centre, a gym, and a restaurant onsite. 

You will love that by staying here you are within walking distance of various attractions in Andorra la Vella.

Another centrally located accommodation : Plaza Hotel

Hotel Spa Termes Carlemany : 

Hotel Spa Termes Carlemany is a luxurious four-star hotel located in the heart of Andorra’s capital, Escaldes-Engordany. This beautiful boutique property features an elegant outdoor swimming pool, as well as a number of onsite amenities like a spa, fitness centre, and restaurant. 

With its stylish decor and attentive staff, Hotel Carlemany is an ideal choice for those seeking a luxurious stay in Andorra.

Hotel NH Collection Andorra Palomé:

Hotel NH Collection Andorra Palomé is a four-star hotel is located near Coma Pedrosa Mountain and about 15 minutes from the capital city. This hotel features modern decor, a restaurant, and a bar, as well as ski storage and lockers.

With its convenient location and amenities, Hotel NH Collection Andorra Palomé is an excellent choice for a comfortable stay in Andorra.

The Hotel Pyrénées: 

The Hotel Pyrénées is situated in the bustling city centre, just a few minutes from the ski resorts of Grandvalira and Vallnord. This charming three-star hotel offers comfortable rooms with all the amenities you need for a relaxing stay. 

Additionally, there’s an outdoor pool and restaurant onsite, making it perfect for those looking to spend some time in the great outdoors.

Sightseeing Map of Andorra for one day itinerary

Best time to visit andorra .

Nestled between the Mediterranean and Pyrenees, Andorra’s mountain climate enjoys temperate winters – cold but dry – and warm, humid summers. 

Summer months offer a great chance to enjoy Andorra’s outdoors and experience its unique culture, with temperatures typically between 15-25°C (60-80°F).

Soldeu ski village in Andorra in Grandvalira

In winter, the ski season runs from late November to early April in Andorra’s major resorts. While days can be very cold during this time of year (-5°C to -10°C/24-50°F), the snow is usually plentiful and ski conditions are excellent. 

Andorra is a very popular winter destination (especially for skiing). 

Plus, it’s a great time to take advantage of the country’s duty-free shopping opportunities for the holiday season! 

What to do in Andorra in the summer 

Many flock to Andorra in the summer to enjoy outdoor activities in the mountains. Here are 5 fun things to do in Andorra during the summer months:

1) Hiking : With its stunning mountain scenery, Andorra is a paradise for hikers. There is a wide range of trails available, ranging from easy strolls to more challenging hikes up peaks such as the Coma Pedrosa (7 hours) and the Pic de Casamanya (4 hours out and back trail).

2) Swimming: The Andorran lakes and rivers offer plenty of opportunities for swimming, particularly those around hiking trails. Popular spots include Tristaina Lakes, and Lake Engolasters, located just outside of the capital. 

3) Biking: Andorra is home to some of the best mountain biking trails in Europe, with plenty of options for all levels and abilities. Popular areas include the Soldeu Bike Park loop from Canillo and Salze loop from Erts (MTB trails).

4) Adventure Parks: Naturlandia is home to a range of exciting activities, and thrilling rides from zip-lining, and rope courses to climbing walls in the midst of nature!

5) Spa: Andorra is home to a wide range of spa and wellness centers, offering a variety of treatments and activities. Popular activities include yoga, meditation, massage, and hydrotherapy to help you relax and unwind on your holiday. The top centers are Caldea and Diamond Spa!

What to do in Andorra in winter

Winter is one of the best times to visit Andorra. With its stunning snow-capped mountains, charming villages, and a wide range of winter activities, this small country has something for everyone. 

Here are 5 fun things to do in Andorra in winter:

1) Skiing : Andorra offers some of the best skiing in Europe. The country’s most popular ski resorts are located in Soldeu and Pas de la Casa (near the French border). 

With their wide range of modern lift systems, these resorts are perfect for beginners and experienced skiers alike.

2) Snowmobiling : Andorra is home to some of the best snowmobiling in Europe . There is a range of trails available, allowing you to explore the stunning Pyrenees Mountain Range at high speeds.

3) Ice Skating: Head to Palau de Gel in Canillo, home to the only ice rink in the Principality. This rink is perfect for both beginners and experienced skaters. It offers skate rental and lessons for those who would like to improve their skills.

4) Mushing: Head out into the countryside and go mushing with your family and friends and explore the breathtaking landscape in style. Mushing is a unique experience and it is conducted through the forests of Grandvalira on a dog-powered sled.

5) Snowshoeing : Enjoy the beauty of Andorra’s natural landscape on a snowshoeing adventure. The country offers several trails for all levels, ranging from short hikes to full-day excursions.

6) Tobogganing : Tobogganing is a popular activity in Andorra and Naturland is home to the Tobotronc, which is the world’s longest alpine toboggan run. 

Enjoy the spectacular views of Andorra’s mountains as you speed down this 5.3 km (3.3 mi) long track in winter.

Additional Travel Tips for Andorra la Vella

Yes, you can. If you are looking to explore the majestic beauty of Andorra, you’ll be glad to know that no visa is required for entry. Further, this sovereign state isn’t part of the Schengen Area; however, access can easily be granted by traveling through France or Spain!

The border control at Andorra–Spain border is located between La Seu d’Urgell and the parish of Sant Julia de Loria (in the Valira Valley).

Andorra does not require any type of visa to enter the country. The Principality is not a member of the Schengen Area or the European Union.  To enter the sovereign state, you have to carry a valid passport and travel either via France or Spain which follows Schengen rules.

By default, your passports won’t get stamped when you enter Andorra and cross over from Spain or France.  But if you really want, you can request the border guards to stamp your passport. Unlike Liechtenstein , you cannot get your passport stamped at the tourist office (for money). 

Andorra is great all year round for seasonal activities – summers are nice for hiking, and sightseeing. Fall is amazing for its autumnal colors, and winters are great for hitting the ski slopes. Summer months from May to July are popular times to visit.  Followed by the winter season for skiing and snow-related activities, from December to March.

When deciding where to stay in Andorra, its most renowned destinations are Pal-Arinsal, La Massana, Ordino-Arcalis, Pas de la Casa, Canillo, and Encamp; all these areas provide a wealth of services that make them the perfect places for tourists to explore!

Getting around Andorra is easy and convenient. The country has a reliable bus network that connects major cities and towns. Bus service is operated by Andorran Bus Lines.  There are six distinct routes that link all cities and towns in the Principality with one another, letting you explore each part of this beautiful country at a time! While there’s no public train system in Andorra, the nearest station is in France in L’Hospitalet-près-l’Andorre.  For visitors who prefer to drive around Andorra, renting a car is a great option. The country has an extensive network of well-maintained roads, many of which are newly built. Driving is a great way to explore the countryside or visit small villages that are not easily accessible by public transportation.

The basic fare for an adult ride is 1.30 Euros. You can also buy a Day pass without a ride limit which costs about 4 Euros. Weekly passes cost 22 Euros.

Yes, Andorra has Uber services.

There are no trains going into the country. But at a short drive away (11 km or 7 miles), you will find the nearest train station –  L’Hospitalet-près-l’Andorre to the border. As a major hub for southern French cities such as Toulouse, it is serviced frequently by trains from all over France.

For the most part, driving in the capital city of Andorra la Vella is easy. Roads are well-marked and maintained even in winter. However, as you enter and exit the country and go into the mountainous terrain some roads will be steep and narrow. So exercise caution as you drive there.

Barcelona is located about 201 kilometers (125 miles) away from Andorra. It is one of the nearest BIG cities to connect to Andorra in about 2 and a half hours.

There are trains available from Barcelona to get you closest to Andorra. Zaragoza is the nearest Spanish city to which you can ride the high-speed Renfe trains. They operate every day except Sundays and take about 2 hours to get there.  Then from Zaragoza, you have to drive or take the ALSA bus to Andorra. The bus takes anywhere from 4 to 5 hours, one way.  Another option is to take the train from Barcelona to Girona (arrive in 35 minutes), and then take a bus from Girona to Andorra la Vella via Manresa (arrive in around 5 hours 32 minutes).

Andorra uses Euro as its official currency and they are allowed to issue their own Euro coins.

There is a zero-tolerance policy in Andorra regarding the possession and use of unlawful drugs. Furthermore, public drunkenness is strictly prohibited in this country; it’s illegal for anyone to consume alcohol on open streets.

Andorra is surprisingly affordable for food and drinks. The country’s low taxes mean that prices are generally lower than in other parts of Europe, making it a great destination for bargain hunters.  Local supermarkets offer budget-friendly groceries for cooking your own meals, while there are also plenty of restaurants serving delicious cuisine. A full meal will be around 10-15 euros for one person (which also includes desserts).

Nature in Andorra is a major reason why people flock to the country. From majestic peaks, lush greenery, and even snow-covered forests – it’s no wonder that this country has become such an attractive destination for nature lovers!

How many days in Andorra is enough?

If you’re looking for a short break, then one or two days in Andorra will be enough. That way, you can explore the capital city and enjoy some outdoor activities like skiing or hiking. 

However, if you’d like to explore the entire country, then five days are the minimum recommended amount of time. That way, you can take some day trips to nearby villages and enjoy all that Andorra has to offer. 

No matter how long you stay in this charming mountain nation, it’s sure to be a memorable experience! 

Is one day enough for Andorra?

One day in Andorra is enough to explore the capital city’s highlights. With a car rental, you can also explore the charming villages along the way as you make your way from Spain.

There are a lot of day tours that comfortably take you through Spain, Andorra, and France. 

Is it worth going to Andorra? Is Andorra worth visiting?

Yes, it is definitely worth going to Andorra! Not only does this small nation have impressive natural beauty with its snow-capped mountain peaks and picturesque valleys, but it also offers a unique cultural experience. 

andorra weekend trip

You can explore ancient churches, stately homes, and quaint streets in the country’s capital Andorra la Vella. 

You can also take part in a variety of outdoor activities such as skiing, snowmobiling, and hiking in the nearby mountains. 

And not to forget there is tons of duty-free shopping! Plus luxury lovers can enjoy pampering treatments at the Caldea Spa Complex in the center. 

So if you’re looking for a fun and unique travel experience, Andorra is the place to go. 

Other Travel Resources: 

  • Milan to Monaco day trip itinerary
  • Florence to San Marino day trip itinerary
  • Zurich to Liechtenstein day trip itinerary

Pin: Visiting Andorra: Andorra day trip itinerary

andorra weekend trip

Mayuri is the founder & editor of ToSomePlaceNew. An Indian-Canadian globetrotter, she has traveled to over 100 cities and 35+ countries. Mayuri has a graduate degree in History and is an MBA. She loves traveling the world, capturing historical nuances, and discussing that over a cup of coffee with her husband, Salil. She currently resides in Edmonton, Canada, and plots travel plans to Europe, the Americas, and beyond. 

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Home » Travel Guides » 15 Best Places to Visit in Andorra

15 Best Places to Visit in Andorra

Cosily located between France and Spain , and nestled in the snowy peaks of the Pyrenean Mountains, Andorra may be small but it is definitely worth a visit for those looking for premium skiing terrain, hiking opportunities, and lush scenery.

The capital Andorra la Vella has a vibrant arts and food scene, as well the largest spa complex in Europe and much of the rest of Andorra is made up of scatterings of picture perfect villages and towns set amidst a backdrop of spectacular vistas.

Architecture lovers also won’t feel out of place here, as there are medieval and Romanesque buildings in abundance, many set on imposing hilltops or hidden away at the end of mountain lanes. Perfect for exploring at your leisure in a bid to uncover as many hidden gems as possible long the way.

Let’s have a look at the best places to visit in Andorra!

1. Andorra la Vella

Andorra la Vella

The capital of Andorra, Andorra la Vella sits in the Pyrenees. The city has a population of just over 20,000 people meaning that it is small and compact and yet there is much to see here for discerning tourists.

With a lively bar and cafe culture, Andorra la Vella has a vibrant main artery in the form of the main street that has galleries showcasing local art, handicraft shops, and restaurants. For those looking to get a glimpse of the history of Andorra, there are guided tours of Casa de la Vall, a historic building dating from the 16th century famed for its period artwork and historically significant documents.

Also of note in Andorra la Vella is the Sant Esteve Church, built in the 12th century that features ornate wooden decorations. To enjoy all that Andorra la Vella has to offer, head over to Plaça del Poble, the main square of the city that sits atop the roof of an administrative complex, and visitors can ascend to the square and take in the unspoilt views over the city and beyond.

Encamp

Head over to the town of Encamp to enjoy this picturesque spot that is bisected by the Valira d’Orient River. The town has a wealth of pretty historical buildings for visitor to explore, as well as quaint cafes, restaurants serving local fare, and boutiques selling art and crafts.

One of the big draws in Encamp is its National Automobile Museum that has a vast collection of vintage automobiles including steam powered cars and motorcycles. The town is also the starting point for several key locations in Andorra, such as the Pic dels Pessons Mountain, and those who enjoy hiking and rambling can explore the area easily in a day from Encamp.

Come ski season, there is a ski lift that takes visitors to Grau Roig or Pas de la Casa in order to hit the slopes in style.

3. Pas de la Casa

Pas de la Casa

Nestled on the border with France , Pas de la Casa is one of Andorra’s top ski resorts, and now features 31 ski lifts to allow visitors access to all areas below the Pic d’Envalira. Unlike some of the other ski resorts in Andorra, Pas de la Casa better serves intermediate or advanced skiers as there are a number of red pistes that span the surrounding terrain.

There is also a focus on nightlife and après-ski here, making Pas de la Casa popular with younger travellers looking for some lively venues to relax in after a long day of skiing.

If you want to do some shopping then there are a number of warehouses along the pass between France and Andorra that sell duty free products.

4. Meritxell

Meritxell

Come to the town of Meritxell for the stunning Basilica Sanctuary of Nostra Senyora de Meritxell. The sanctuary is Romanesque in style and originally dates from the 17th century, and has been lovingly preserved and restored after a fire in the 1970s.

The basilica is known for its ornate statues of patron saints (one for each parish in Andorra) as well as its cloisters and a spectacular mirror room.

Part of the ancient chapel now houses a museum that features historic objects and artwork that celebrates the basilica and the Virgin of Meritxell.

Church of Saint Christopher, Anyós

The dinky village of Anyós sits in the La Massana parish and provides an enjoyable afternoon of sightseeing about one kilometre outside of La Massana proper. If you happen to visit Anyós in July you may witness the village’s annual carnival which features the blessing of a carriage in the village square.

Also worth a visit is the Church of Saint Christopher that dates from medieval times in homage to the patron saint of the village.

Popular pastimes in the surrounding areas of Anyós include bird watching and fishing, and this is the perfect place to go for a stroll and take in the local Alpine flora and fauna.

6. El Serrat

El Serrat

If you want to get out of the city of Andorra la Vella and really want to get away from it all then look no further that El Serrat, a tiny little village in a quiet corner of the Valira del Nord Valley.

The village is located up in the mountains which means that whatever direction you look in you will find stunning views of the surrounding countryside, and nature lovers should definitely not miss the opportunity to ramble in the region, particularly for those who love Alpine scenery.

Popular activities in and around El Serrat include bird watching, hiking, and in the winter months the area is blanketed in snow and you can indulge in cross country skiing or snowboarding in the downhill areas.

7. La Cortinada

La Cortinada

Famed for being a place of almost unparallel natural beauty in Andorra, the delightful village of La Cortinada sits amongst flower meadows, fields, and imposing mountains, and is known for its ornate historical buildings.

For an example of Romanesque architecture in La Cortinada, walk over to the Sant Martí de la Cortinada church and enjoy the vibrant frescoes and a dovecot. There is also a carved wooden alter that dates from the 18th century as well as a sculpted confessional and elaborate carved wooden decorations throughout.

After visiting the town proper, there are a number of walking trails that encircle the village if you want to check out the views and the local plant and wildlife.

8. Vallnord

Vallnord

Andorra is well known as a prime skiing location, and no more so than at Vallnord, and visitors from all over Europe flock here for the crisp snow and pristine skiing conditions.

Vallnord, part of the Pyrenees, caters for skiers of all levels of ability, so whether you just want to try one of the beginner trails or take to the professional slopes, there is something for everyone to enjoy here.

Families also head to Vallnord to take advantage of the ski schools and family activities such as tobogganing and snowshoeing, or you can even whizz around the area on a snowmobile if you are so inclined.

9. Les Escaldes

Les Escaldes

Located just outside of the city of Andorra la Vella, Les Escaldes is the place to come if you enjoy hot springs and soothing thermal waters. The springs here are known for being rich in sulphur and nitrogen that can be used to treat a range of health issues, and are naturally heated underground.

Back in the day, the waters were discovered and used by the Romans who believed in their healing properties, so don’t miss the chance to soak in a Roman bath in Les Escaldes.

Aside from the waters, visitors can also check out Les Escaldes fortress named Capilla Sant Roma, as well as take in the views over the town from the Pont dels Escalls Bridge, a place of historical significance that makes you feel as if you have stepped back in time.

10. Valira D’Orient Valley

Sant Miquel Engolasters

Due to its size and compact geography, Andorra is easily visited by car, and tours are common here to allow guests the chance to explore different areas of the region. As you move through the Valira d’Orient Valley you will find charming little towns and villages scattered over the region, as well as period buildings that seem to emerge out of nowhere.

These include the Sant Miquel Engolasters, a Pyrenean church that is yet another stunning example of the Romanesque style.

Located nearby the church is Lake Engolasters, an artificial lake that offers fishing and boating opportunities, and the surrounding scenery makes this the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll and a picnic.

11. Santa Coloma

Santa Coloma

As you drive from Andorra in the direction of the border with Spain , you will find the sleepy yet dainty village of Santa Coloma, which is known for the Santa Coloma church, another Romanesque building in Andorra that’s unusual due to its circular rather than square shape.

The church dates from the 9th century, and visitors travel here for its ornate features such as a statue, said to date from the 12th century, of the Virgin of Coloma. There are also some splendid frescoes on display as well as ornate arches, and a font said to date from medieval times.

Also in Santa Coloma is the Sant Vicenç d’Enclar Castle, built in the 12th century, and just a short walk from Santa Coloma Church. The location of the castle is stunning, as it sits atop the Roc d’Enclar, and stands guard over the village below.

12. Centre Termolúdic Caldea

Centre Termolúdic Caldea

When you visit Andorra la Vella it probably won’t take you long to find the Centre Termolúdic Caldea, a towering pyramid made from glass that easily pierces the city’s skyline. The centre is also notable for being the largest spa complex in the whole of Europe, and stretches over 6,000 square metres so that guests have plenty of room to enjoy all that the spa has to offer.

There are both indoor and outdoor lagoon areas for guests to swim and float in, as well as sauna, hot tubs, and a range of in-house features that provide unique treatments. Some of these include mini-waterfalls to massage tired muscles, marble treatment rooms that are said to have healing properties, and Roman style baths.

The waters in the spa are packed with minerals and originate from a thermal source under the city.

13. Canillo

Sant Joan de Caselles Chapel, Canillo

If you are looking to get back to Andorra’s roots then make for the charming village of Canillo. To the north of the village you will find the Sant Joan de Caselles Chapel, built in the 11th century in the Romanesque style.

Constructed from local stone, the chapel has made its mark due to its exquisite craftsmanship that includes a range of preserved frescoes and sculptures including one of Jesus Christ made from stucco.

A visit to the chapel also combines well with a walk in the countryside to take in the spectacular scenery that Andorra is famous for, as well as an opportunity to try the local fare in one of the rustic local restaurants that dot the area.

14. La Massana

La Massana

Come to La Massana in the winter months if you want to experience some outdoor premium sports and enjoy some fun in the snow.

La Massana is larger in size than most other ski resorts in Andorra, and is found at an elevation of 1500 metres, although its slopes continue up to 2500 metres. There are 89 kilometres of downhill ski trails including 41 pistes, and 26 ski lifts. The resort is also joined via ski lifts to other ski areas such as Arisanal.

Depending on your fitness levels and enthusiasm, you can go skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and even try your hand at a combination of skiing and paragliding!

  • 15.  Ordino

Ordino

For those who want to explore more of the Valira del Nord Valley, the town of Ordino is an essential stop off point. The town lies at the base of the Casamanya Mountain and has a laid back atmosphere and a rustic charm.

One of the top draws in Ordino is the Casa Plairal d’Areny de Plandolit, the former home of Baron de Senaller, that originally dates from the 17th century. Visitors can tour the house and enjoy the period touches such as an ornate iron balcony, and even a former armoury that includes a barrel-organ.

As you move through the home you will also find a historic blacksmith’s studio, a library that features coats of arms of famous families in Andorra, a private chapel, and even a period bakery.

Other things to look out for are original copies of the national anthem of Andorra in the music room, as well as the decorated private chapel.

15 Best Places to Visit in Andorra:

  • Andorra la Vella
  • Pas de la Casa
  • La Cortinada
  • Les Escaldes
  • Valira D’Orient Valley
  • Santa Coloma
  • Centre Termolúdic Caldea
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What is there to do in Andorra?

Want to visit andorra.

Andorra has everything you need for an enjoyable weekend escape or an unforgettable holiday. Nature, sport, culture, wellness, shopping, food… Organise your trip now!

Discover everything Andorra has to offer and put together your ideal itinerary in just a few clicks. You will find all sorts of accommodation, restaurants, activities and tourist attractions! 

andorra weekend trip

Whether it’s at a ski resort or in the city centre, with a spa or nestled in the mountains, your hotel in Andorra is sure to be special.

Eating in Andorra

Whether you’re looking for haute cuisine or traditional fare, international or local dishes… Andorra’s restaurants will delight your palate!

Shopping in Andorra

Electronics, cosmetics, fashion… Shopping in Andorra is a real treat, with everything at the best price.

Culture in Andorra

The events calendar in Andorra is overflowing with interesting proposals: Cirque du Soleil, Thyssen Museum… Check it out!

Unwinding in Andorra

Fancy a weekend break or a romantic escape in Andorra? Our mountains are the solution.

Relaxing in Andorra

Looking for some me time and well-being? Choose a wellness centre or spa in Andorra.

Andorra

SKIING… AND MUCH MORE!

Diversity, quality and harmony with nature. This is what’s offered by the range of sports in Andorra. It’s not all about downhill or cross-country skiing: you can also try snowboarding, hiking and much more.

An excursion in Andorra is the best way to see the most beautiful, natural spots in the Pyrenees. There are routes for all experience levels.

WALKING AMONG MOUNTAINS

Skiing in Andorra is the perfect plan for snow lovers. Grandvalira and Pal Arinsal are among the top ski resorts worldwide!

Skiing down the best slopes

Find more detailed information for your trip here: nature trails, restaurants, hotels, etc.

andorra weekend trip

A COUNTRY TO ENJOY 365 DAYS A YEAR

You can’t fit everything Andorra has to offer into just one season. Whatever time of year you visit, there is always something to do in Andorra!

andorra weekend trip

Andorra is a country that never stops: there are plenty of activities for the winter season and for the summer for even the most dynamic, restless travellers. With all the sports, leisure and shopping options on offer, you can put together a jam-packed itinerary for your trip. Or, if you’re looking for the ideal place to slow down and escape the daily grind, Andorra has all the tranquillity you’re dreaming of. 

These are the two sides of the same place, which hides treasures for all tastes among its mountains. This is why we have put together this guide to what to do in Andorra during your trip. Read on to find out more!

PLANS FOR ACTIVE TRAVELLERS

If you like to make the most of every last second of your trip, Andorra has plenty for you. First, we have a range of sports activities. When the cold and snow are on the horizon, the country gets ready to welcome skiers, snowboarders and other snow lovers who know all about the quality of our slopes. You can find world-class slopes at Grandvalira , Ordino Arcalís and Pal Arinsal , or try out cross-country skiing in Naturland .

If you prefer walking, there is a huge variety of routes within your reach. There are trails in all the country’s parishes and for all experience levels, with spectacular panoramic views around every corner. In fact, much of the country is covered by three large nature parks: Vall del Sorteny , Valls del Comapedrosa and Madriu-Perafita-Claror . The latter has been named a World Heritage Site by Unesco in the cultural landscape category.

When it comes to leisure and culture, Andorra has all sorts to offer. The events calendar is packed throughout the year, even in autumn and winter. The country’s theatres and stages play host to the biggest acts, like Cirque du Soleil and internationally renowned music groups. Children’s festivals, film festivals, folk celebrations and dance performances are just some of the other events that might be taking place during your trip. Check the calendar!

And we must not forget the country’s museums and art exhibitions , which have helped Andorra to stand out as an attractive cultural destination. In fact, Andorra is the country with the most museums per capita in the world! Its museum offering includes the Carmen Thyssen Museum , with different exhibitions every season and pieces by the greatest universal masters. 

Of course, it goes without saying that going shopping is always a good option in Andorra. And you can do so almost every day of the year, as there are very few closed days in our commercial calendar. So, during your holiday or weekend break, make the most of all the shopping centres and shops available to you, with electronics, perfumes, cosmetics, fashion and much more at much lower prices than in France, Spain or any other country.

andorra weekend trip

PLANS FOR THOSE WHO NEED A BREAK

If you’ve decided it’s time for a well-earned break, there’s no better place for it than Andorra. We are known for our thermal tourism, thanks to one of the biggest spa centres in Europe: Caldea , a pioneer in recreational spa experiences for families and couples. You will also find a host of massage and wellness centres spread out over all seven Andorran parishes, both as part of hotels and open to the general public.

Sometimes, rest and relaxation can be provided by the greenery of the mountains, a starry sky and the restorative silence of a rural getaway . Andorra is the perfect country break destination: it seems like time moves more slowly here.

Finally, you can sit back and relax as you tuck in to a meal at any of Andorra’s restaurants . The cold season is perfect for this, as our star dishes are winter warmers: escudella and trinxat . They will taste even better in our typical bordas : traditional mountain buildings that used to store grain and livestock, but have now been converted into charming restaurants. You will also find plenty of eateries in our urban centres, with international or haute cuisine specialities.

  

There are so many things to do in Andorra in the winter. Come and find out for yourself, and enjoy everything the snow season has to offer. You’ll want to come back right away!

andorra weekend trip

andorra weekend trip

The Diary of a Passionate Traveler

andorra weekend trip

Andorra is a tiny country, located between Spain and France. Being the 16th smallest country in the world by land and the 11th smallest by population, Andorra is mostly famous as a ski- destination. Due to its size, it is perfect for a weekend trip as well. Its capital, Andorra la Vella, the main place of interest for us, is the highest capital city in Europe- above 1000 metres.

Lili’s 5 good-to-know tips when travelling to Andorra:

  • Andorra is located to the north of Spain and the only way to reach it is via land transport from Spain or France. The closest airport to Andorra is La Seu d’Urgell, located 10 km to the south on the territory of Spain.
  • Andorra is a duty-free area which makes is also suitable as a shopping destination.
  • The tiny country is located quite high in the mountains , so better check the weather conditions before you go. We visited it in May, but the temperatures were around 0 degrees.
  • If you arrive by car and your hotel does not offer a parking (which is the case with most of the hotels in the town center), you can use one of the couple public parking in the city center. The daily parking is around €12-15.

Andorra main shopping street

We spent literally less than 24 hours in Andorra. We arrived quite late in the evening from Barcelona. Upon landing at Barcelona airport, we rented a car. The ride took us around 2,5 hours. The first part was highway, but then we took a mountainous road. It is quite easy to reach Andorra. Basically you just need to drive straight. A GPS helps of course.

Andorra souvenirs

The next morning we took a stroll and after 2 hours we have seen all interesting places in the city center. After some time for shopping and a nice lunch in typical local restaurant, we were ready to go back to our starting point Barcelona.

From the moment you enter Andorra, you will see the sign “ Naturlandia ”. Actually Naturlandia is the adventure park in Andorra, located at around 2000 meters height near the village of Sant Julià de Lòria (yes, surprisingly Andorra is not only one town- it has a few more small towns). Both in summer and in winter, the park offers all kind of activities: nature, sports, educational, recreational and entertainment for small and big. The name though fits so much to Andorra, that it is like a narrative. It is also shown on different souvenirs as well.

Naturlandia

What to see and do in Andorra la Vella for a day?

As mentioned above, Andorra is popular as a ski resort. Many people come here for a week-vacation. In any case, the things below might be useful also for those who come either for a weekend, or for a longer stay.

Once again, Andorra la Vella is the capital of the tiny country Andorra. At the end of the article you will find the legend about the creation of one of the smallest countries in the world. And here are our recommendations how you can spend your day in Andorra la Vella.

Old Town Andorra la Vella

Do some duty-free shopping

Although shopping might not be the main reason for your trip, it is worth visiting some shops. Besides premium brands like Prada, Versace, etc, you will also find Zara, Calzedonia, Adidas, etc. The prices are around 30% lower vs the prices for example in Austria (I could make comparison of the same goods). Besides clothes shops, you will see a lot of shops for electronics, perfumes and jewelry. The most popular shopping streets are Avenue Meritxell and Avenue Carlemany. Illa Carlemany and Pyrenees Andorra are the two best-known and most-visited upscale shopping malls in Andorra.

Shopping Andorra

Take a walk in the old part of the city

The old part of Andorra la Vella is very, very small. You will be done with it in about an hour. Many of the streets are pedestrian, with cute small shops and cafes. Unfortunately the weather was not good when we visited it, but I assume during the summer it is very charming to have lunch/ dinner in one of the restaurants.

Andorra Old town streets

The Church of Sant Esteve

This is the main landmark of Andorra la Vella. Originally  this Romanesque building was constructed around 1100s, but over the last decades it was subject to many changes. The access to the church is free during the summer. When we visited it though, it was closed. You will as well notice several religious statues around the church. Even if you do not enter, you can still admire the majesty of the church with the mountains at the back.

The Church of Sant Esteve

Casa de la Vall

This building used to be once the Parliament Building of Andorra. All the functions of the Andorran government, administration and justice were in the same building. 

Casa de la Val

The needs of growth meant that other premises had to be used and led to the building of a new home for the parliamentary institution in 2011. We did not enter, but they also offer guided tours even in several languages. In front of the building you will find a small square with nice view to the city.

Sculptures in front of Casa de la Val

The clock (La Noblesse du Temps)

This sculpture which has very strange shape is designed by Salvador Dali (and that is why it is often referred to as Dali Clock). It is located on one of the bridges at Piazza Rotonda over Gran Valira River.

La Noblesse du Temps

Puente de Paris bridge

It is a hanging bridge over Gran Valira River, made of steel. I’m not sure whether there is something special about it, but it offers nice view to the river underneath.

Puente de Paris bridge

Take a small walk

on one of the hills in order to admire the view. Andorra la Vella is located in a small valley among the mountains and from above it looks even cuter.

Andorra la Vella Slopes

The hotel we had chosen is not something I can recommend. Yes, it was very cheap (40 Eur for a room for 3), but it was more a hut rather than a hotel. As mentioned above, we visited it outside the high ski season and maybe this is the reason for the lower prices.

Statues around The Church of Sant Esteve

Our impression is that also the prices in the restaurants in Andorra are not high. They are comparable with those in Spain. We had lunch in a very nice local restaurant which I can only recommend. Its name is Mama Maria . For the food lovers we can mention that Escudella is often referred to as Andorra’s national dish. Locals eat it prevalently in winter and also at Christmas. If you a meat fan, you will definitely like it. It contains different types of meat- chicken, veal, meatballs, pig snout and sausage. It also features potatoes, cabbage and white beans or chickpeas. At some places they also add large pasta shells- sounds a bit heavy, doesn’t it? It was summer by the time we visited Andorra, so it was time for lighter food.

Andorra Streets

We hope we managed to capture your attention and convinced you that Andorra is good idea for a weekend trip. In the end it is another country ;). For more ideas for weekend escapes , visit the special section on the blog.

The legend about how Charlemagne (Charles the Great) founded Andorra .

In the year 711, a storming force from North Africa crossed the Mediterranean sea landing in Europe. The Moorish invasion of the Iberian Peninsula began. However, the people of the Iberian Peninsula continued doing their daily activities not thinking much about the approaching vessels as they were similar to trading vessels- the ones they did business with on a regular basis. After realizing what was happening, they fled to the hills in hope that it was just a temporary attack. But it turned out the Moors had more in mind than just a temporary attack. The army conquered one town after another moving towards the north.

Charles the Great, the ruler of the Frankish Kingdom, today’s France, was not going to give his lands so easily. He put a strong fight against the Moors with the help from the inhabitants living in the Pyrenees Mountains. In return Charles founded Andorra for the inhabitants of those lands.

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Travel Addicts

Home » Europe » Andorra » A Weekend Getaway in Andorra

A Weekend Getaway in Andorra

By Author Lance Longwell

Posted on Last updated: April 17, 2020

Where is Andorra? The trip started as a question. As it turns out, located high in the Pyrenees Mountains is the tiny principality of Andorra. It’s the 179th largest country in the world, which is to say, it’s one of the smallest. Actually, it is the 16th smallest by size and is the 11th smallest by population. This means much of the country is sparsely populated. Despite its limited size, there are lots of great things to do in Andorra la Vella and the surrounding countryside.

It has both natural beauty in the mountains and cultural attractions in the capital, Andorra la Vella. This tiny little country makes a great weekend getaway from anywhere in Europe.

This Dali-inspired clock sculpture

Things to Do in Andorra la Vella

Hike the trails.

Andorra is a mountainous paradise and welcomes hikers and trekkers of all abilities. There are over 50 trail routes for hiking in Andorra and five major European long-distance trekking routes cross through the principality. For those on a longer journey, there are over 30 mountain huts where trekkers can stay for the night.

Many hikers seek out the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley. This remote valley covers nearly 10% of the principality and has tremendous natural beauty. The valley’s remoteness has preserved a 13th century culture of communal land ownership and traditional agriculture methods. The Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley has been recognized as Andorra’s only UNESCO World Heritage Site .

Ski the Mountain Slopes

Andorra can be quiet in the summer, but in winter, the principality comes to life. It is a winter sports playground and skiing is one of the most popular things to do in Andorra.

Most skiers make their way to the Vallnord resort , which is made up of three different mountains. While our trip to Andorra was in the late spring/early summer, there was still plenty of snow at the Vallnord Ordino-Arcalis resort. The resort was officially closed, but we got to see hikers and a few snowmobilers out on the mountain.

Ski lift and slopes at in Andorra in the winter

Visit a Winery

Despite being sandwiched between two great wine cultures (France and Spain), viticulture came late to this mountain country – and initially it was only an experiment. Agriculture in Andorra was historically limited to tobacco, but in 1988, grapes were planted and the first vintage came in 2006.

One of our favorite activities in Andorra was a visit to the Casa Auvinya winery . Perched high on the side of a mountain on the road from Sant Julia de Loria, you can enjoy delicious vintages while taking in beautiful mountain views.

Glass and bottle of wine at Casa Auvinya winery on wood table

Soak in a Spa

In the Escaldes-Engordany Parish, just across the river from capital of Andorra la Vella, an iceberg-shaped building pierces the sky. This is one of the most architecturally unique buildings on the planet and it is home to the massive Caldea-INUU spa complex . When built, it was Europe’s largest hot springs and spa complex with over 65,000 square feet of spa space!

Since opening in 1994, the Caldea spa has welcomed thousands of visitors from around the world. In 2013, the companion INUU spa was built featuring an adults-only atmosphere. The two spas are a great way to relax after a long day of hiking or skiing.

People in the pool pods at the Caldea spa in Andorra

Shop the Day Away

For generations, Andorra has had favorable tax laws and been a kind of tax haven. That means many visitors come to the country to go shopping. In fact, duty-free shopping is one of the top things to do in the city. Shoppers should head to Meritxell and Carlemany Streets to get their fix. Judging by our walk through town, the most popular items are tobacco, alcohol, electronics and clothes.

The duty free shopping in the local shops of Andorra la Vella

To be completely honest, we really didn’t know what we were going to find on our trip to this country in the Pyrenees Mountains. The name Andorra doesn’t really conjure up an image for many travelers. Yet, we discovered there were enough fun things to do in Andorra la Vella and the surrounding mountains to keep us happily occupied for a weekend.

andorra weekend trip

Lance Longwell is a travel writer and photographer who has published Travel Addicts since 2008, making it one of the oldest travel blogs. He is a life-long traveler, having visited all 50 of the United States by the time he graduated high school. Lance has continued his adventures by visiting 70 countries on 5 continents – all in search of the world’s perfect sausage. He’s a passionate foodie and enjoys hot springs and cultural oddities. When he’s not traveling (or writing about travel), you’ll find him photographing his hometown of Philadelphia.

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33 Travel Tips

33 Cool Things to Do in Andorra

  • Post author: Svet
  • Post category: Country Guides
  • Post published: January 26, 2022

Things to Do in Andorra Pin 6

Looking for the best things to do in Andorra?

With a population of just 86,000, Andorra is one of the smallest countries in the world.

However, the principality sandwiched between Spain and France welcomes hundreds of thousands of tourists each year.

And the reason for that is it teems with great activities.

On this list, you’ll find 33 cool things to do in Andorra.

From exploring its striking churches to marveling at jaw-dropping crags, and from spa treatments to endless shopping tours, let’s see what to do in Andorra!

Start Planning Your Trip to Andorra with Our BEST Recommendations:

⭐ Top Tours in Andorra ⭐

📍 3 Countries in 1 Day – the best day trip from Barcelona to Andorra.

📍 Andorra Helicopter Tour – the most exhilarating aerial views of Andorra.

⭐ Best Accommodations in Andorra ⭐

🏨 Andorra Park Hotel – spoil yourself with a lux spa stay in the capital’s center.

🏨 Grand Plaza Hotel & Wellness – relaxing spa and delectable gourmet offers.

⭐ Easiest Transportation Options in Andorra ⭐

🚍 Omio – check out the available buses and trains to and from Andorra la Vella.

🚍 Discover Cars – compare and find the best rates for car rentals in any destination.

Note : This article contains affiliate links . In case you purchase something through one of these links, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost for you. Thank you for helping us keep creating the free content on this website!

Explore Andorra’s Enchanting Landmarks

Caldea Spa Complex Andorra

Among the best things to do in Andorra is discovering its captivating attractions . The following section will walk you around the most fascinating.

  • Rejuvenate at the Caldea Spa Complex . With its 18 floors, Caldea is the tallest building in Andorra and Europe’s largest thermal spa complex. Plus, it has one of the most breathtaking designs in the world. The spa complex has numerous indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, swimming pools, and hydrotherapy sections. More than 400,000 people visit the spa each year. We don’t know about you, but to us soaking in this gigantic spa complex is one of the top reasons to visit Andorra .
  • Check out La Casa de la Vall . One of the top landmarks in Andorra la Vella, the country’s capital, is La Casa de la Vall . The historical house was erected in 1580 as a manor. From 1702 until 2011, it served as the headquarters of the General Council of Andorra. The Casa’s first floor houses the spectacular Criminal Court with wooden decorations and furniture. The second floor is home to the Hall of Lost Steps – a noble room where you can marvel at 16 th -century paintings.
  • Cross the Tibetan Bridge of Canillo . Pont Tibetà de Canillo is a mind-boggling hanging bridge. Its length is 1,978 ft. (603 m) and its maximum height – 518 ft. (158 m). If you’re not afraid of heights and shaking knees, the spectacular views of the Pyrenees will reward you for your bravery of crossing the impressive steel structure.
  • Explore the country’s national parks . Madriu-Perafita-Claror , Valls del Comapedrosa , and Valle de Sorteny cover a big portion of the territory of Andorra. The largest park – Madriu-Perafita-Claror – is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. While trekking them, expect to see boars, eagles, roe deer, and bearded vultures.
  • Walk the Sola Irrigation Canal Trail . The trail is paved with rock and meanders along the canal. Heart-stopping views of the city and the valley await you on the Sola Irrigation Canal Trail . The hike is very pleasant and takes less than 1:30 hours.
  • Admire the buildings in Centro Historico . Andorra la Vella’s Historical Center is a small neighborhood that prides itself on a few striking historical buildings. These include La Casa de la Vall, Casa Guillemó, Casa Felipó, and the old Vilanoca clinic. Most edifices date from the 16 th  and 17 th  centuries, so be prepared for gorgeous architecture.

La Noblesse du Temps Andorra

  • Marvel at La Noblesse du Temps . Weighing 1.4 tons and rising 16 ft. (4.9 m) above the ground, La Noblesse du Temps is a monumental bronze sculpture. The legendary artist Salvador Dalí constructed the monument that symbolizes the passing time (La Noblesse du Temps translates to The Nobility of Time).  An interesting fact about Andorra  is that Dalí made La Noblesse by hand.
  • Stop at Puente de Paris.  This small yet picturesque bridge is a wonderful backdrop to the gorgeous Andorra la Vella.  Puente de Paris  has an attractive design and eye-catching architecture that blossoms at night as it’s fully lit up. So, if your time allows it, visit it after sunset.
  • Satiate your shopping desires at the Shopping Mile . Since the country is a tax free haven, one of the best things to do in Andorra is to go on a shopping spree. The best place to meet your shopping needs is the  Shopping Mile  that cuts through Andorra la Vella. Countless outlets, hypermarkets, and boutiques will try to seduce you with their irresistible offers.
  • Tour the Valira D’Orient Valley . Andorra’s  Valira D’Orient Valley  will charm you with its gorgeous little towns and villages, as well as edifices that seem to emerge out of nowhere. One of the most interesting is  San Miquel Engloasters  – a striking Pyrenean church erected in the Romanesque style. Near the church, you can explore  Lake   Engloasters . The lake might be artificial, but it offers various fishing and boating opportunities.
  • Explore Casa Felipó’s granite architecture . Built in 1948,  Casa Felipó  is part of the Cultural Heritage of Andorra. The edifice uses granite stone and consists of seven floors. It has a conical roof and its façade peculiarly combines symmetrical and irregular elements.
  • Splash in hot springs at Les Escaldes . Just outside of Andorra la Vella,  Les Escaldes  is your spot if you love hot springs and thermal waters. The springs teem in nitrogen and sulphur, which can help heal a variety of health issues. The ancient Romans discovered the waters and built a bath that’s worth exploring. In the vicinity, you can also find Roman ruins,  Capilla Sant Roma   Fortress,  and the  Pont dels Escalls Bridge .

Get Lost in Andorra’s Picturesque Towns and Villages

Sun over Andorra de Vella

The country might be tiny, but it teems with gorgeous settlements. In this section, you’ll find the best places to visit in Andorra .

  • Andorra la Vella . Andorra’s capital – Andorra la Vella – is a captivating little town. Sitting at 3,356 ft. (1,023 m), it’s the highest capital in Europe and one of the highest in the world. The city’s population is just over 22,000 people, but there are tons of things to do there. It is a popular duty-free retail hub, and you’ll find the main artery of stores along Meritxell Avenue. Next to shops, there are also galleries, restaurants, and handicraft stores. Don’t miss the 12 th -century Sant Esteve Church , which has eye-catching wooden decorations.
  • Encamp . The city will stun you with its picturesque views of the Valira d’Orient River. Pretty historical buildings, quaint cafés, boutiques, and restaurants that serve local fare dot the town. Encamp is home to the peculiar National Automobile Museum. Inside, you can discover a large collection of vintage vehicles, including motorcycles and steam-powered cars. If you’re visiting in winter, take the lift to Grau Roig or Pas de la Casa to hit the ski slopes.
  •  La Cortinada . The pleasant village of La Cortinada sits among a drop-dead gorgeous combination of fields, flower meadows, and imposing mountain crags. Numerous ornate historical buildings further accentuate the town’s beauty. If you’re a fan of Romanesque architecture, head to Sant Martí de la Cortinada church to marvel at the vibrant frescos and impressive dovecot. Pay special attention to the wooden altar that dates from the 18 th century.
  • Ordino . If you’re looking to discover more of the Valira del Nord Valley, a must-stop is the town of Ordino . It lies at the foot of Casamanya Mountain and welcomes you with a rustic charm and a laid-back atmosphere. One of Ordino’s top attractions is a 17 th -century house that belonged to Baron de Senaller. Inside, you can admire a former armory with a barrel organ, an elaborate library, and a lavish iron balcony.

Sant Joan de Caselles Church Andorra

  • Canillo . Want to explore Andorra’s roots? Head to the quaint village of Canillo where you can marvel at the Sant Joan de Caselles Chapel . The temple was erected in the 11 th century in Romanesque style. You can combine the visit to the chapel with a stroll in the countryside to admire the spectacular scenery Andorra is famous for. The best views are from the breathtaking viewpoint Roc Del Quer .
  • Santa Coloma . The sleepy yet graceful village of Santa Coloma is known for its church. Also built in Romanesque style, the edifice is quite unusual as it’s circular, not square in shape. The 9 th -century church attracts visitors with its resplendent features, including a 12 th -century statue of the Virgin of Coloma. Just a short walk from the church, you can discover the Sant Vicenç d’Enclar Castle which dates back to medieval times.
  • Anyós . The small village of Anyós offers great opportunities for a delightful afternoon of sightseeing. If you’re visiting Andorra in July, you might witness the annual carnival of Anyós during which locals bless a carriage on the village square. The Church of Saint Christopher is also worth exploring. Venturing out in nature, bird watching, and fishing are the other activities you can do in the area around the village.
  • Meritxell . The crown in the jewel of attractions of Meritxell is the striking Basilica Sanctuary of Nostra Senyora de Meritxell . Built in Romanesque style in the 17 th century, it will seduce you with its lavish statues of patron saints and a jaw-dropping mirror room. The old chapel also hosts a museum that displays artwork and historic objects.

Test Your Skills With Andorra’s Winter Activities

Grandvalira Andorra Day Trip from Barcelona

This list will show you the top spots to engage in winter sports . Skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing are among the best things to do in Andorra in winter.

  • Pas de la Casa . Right at the border with France, Pas de la Casa is one of Andorra’s best ski resorts. Today, it has more than 30 ski lifts taking visitors to the areas below Pic d’Envalira. If you’re an advanced skier, this is your spot to be as Pas de la Casa has several red pistes that span the surroundings. Nightlife is booming here as well, which makes the resort a popular place for young travelers.
  • Vallnord . Tourists from Europe and beyond flock to Vallnord for its crisp snow and unmatched skiing conditions. As a prime winter resort, it caters to all kinds of skiers – from complete beginners to seasoned pros. Traveling with family? You can benefit from the resort’s ski school and various family activities like snowshoeing, tobogganing, or even driving a snowmobile.
  • La Massana . Top-notch outdoor sports and fun in the snow expect you in La Massana in the winter months. The resort is at an elevation of over 4,920 ft. (1,500 m), and its slopes reach up to 8,200 ft. (2,500 m). More than 55 mi (89 km) of downhill ski trails – including 41 marked pistes and 26 ski lifts – are there to keep you busy. Skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, and even paragliding are all available at La Massana.
  • Soldeu . The small village of Soldeu has a large appeal to skiers, snowboarders, and winter fans. Fantastic 4*- and 5*-star hotels will pamper you with their chic facilities and exquisite mountain spas. Here, you can find every ski slope imaginable – from the novice green and blue to the more advanced red and the expert black ones.
  • Grandvalira . 129 ski pistes, including 20 green, 49 blue, 41 red, and 19 black keep skiers challenged at Grandvalira . The total length of the pistes is 130 mi (210 km), with a maximum vertical drop of 2,800 ft. (850 m). If you’re a fan of higher adrenaline and fewer crowds, you’ll be delighted to hear that night skiing is possible here as well.

Check Out the Most Peculiar Museums of Andorra

Andorra de Vella

When you’ve had enough of hiking and Romanesque architecture, how about touring Andorra’s unusual museums ? The quirkiest ones include:

  • The Postal Museum . Discover how stamps were made and printed in the Postal Museum . The collection features over 50,000 stamps. The tour takes around 30 minutes, but you can also explore the museum on your own with an audio guide. The opening hours are from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, and from 3:00 PM to 6:00 PM Monday through Saturday. On Sunday, the museum is open only in the morning.
  • The Museum of Miniatures . The Museo de la Miniatura showcases a large diversity of works by Nicolai Siadristy, a Ukrainian who is widely regarded as one of the world’s best miniature artists. Siadristy has created miniatures out of fine materials like gold and platinum, as well as common materials such as paper, grains of rice, or fruit seeds.
  • The Perfume Museum . This truly unique museum proves Andorra’s special connection to scents. Inside the Perfume Museum , you’ll discover 39,000+ units and thousands of fragrances in five different rooms. Don’t miss the Olfactory Station area where you can experiment with mixing various scents with the help of two machines. Prices start at €3 ($3.25), and you can check the opening hours here .
  • The Comic Museum . If you’re a fan of cartoons and caricatures, you’ll love discovering the colorful Comic Museum . It hosts over 1,000 copies, and the oldest piece is Little Nemo in Slumberland which dates from 1904. VHS and DVD movies, as well as art books, are also on display in the museum’s archive. Exploring this quirky collection is definitely one of the best things to do in Andorra.
  • The Electricity Museum . The MW Museum of Electricity is open all year round. From May till September, you can also observe the Engolasters hydroelectric route. The tour takes you to the dam on Engolasters Lake where you can unveil the secrets of electricity production. Plan around an hour for the museum and another for the hydroelectric route.

Charge Your Palate with the Mouthwatering Andorran Cuisine

Trinxat Traditional Andorran Dish

One of the best things to do in Andorra is quenching your hunger with scrumptious local dishes. Similar to neighboring France and Spain, Andorrans like escargots . Some of the mountain game delicacies you can expect to taste in the country include boar and hare . In this section, you’ll find the most typical foods in Andorra .

  • Escudella . Andorra’s national dish consists of meat and veggies that join forces in a soup or a stew. Escudella combines meat (chicken, veal, or sausage), pasta shells, and different seasonal vegetables, including celery, carrots, and cabbage.
  • Trinxat . Similar to the British Bubble and Squeak, Trinxat consists of leek, cabbage, potatoes, and pork meat. Fresh parsley and garlic cloves add a fragrant touch to the dish. Sometimes, locals serve it topped with a poached egg or chicory leaves.
  • Trucha a la Andorrana . Due to Andorra’s location away from seashores, seafood isn’t common in the country’s cuisine. But the country has many rivers full of freshwater trout. Trucha a la Andorrana is Andorran-style trout, which is grilled and wrapped in ham. Delectable!

Which Are Your Favorite Things to Do in Andorra?

Day Trip from Barcelona to Andorra Header

If you’ve thought Andorra is worth just a day trip from Barcelona , we hope this guide convinced you otherwise.

Armed with these 33 cool things to do in Andorra , we’re sure you’ll have a ton to explore in one of the smallest countries in the world.

From captivating landmarks to dainty towns and villages, and from breathtaking ski slopes to unusual museums, we bet you’ll have a blast in Andorra.

Now, we’d love to hear:

What would be the first thing you’d do when you visit Andorra?

Leave a comment below to share it with us.

Things to Do in Andorra Pin 5

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Is Andorra Worth Visiting? 9 Reasons Why to Visit Andorra (2023)

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Andorra is a small country situated between France and Spain. And if you’re in the area or simply trying to travel off the beaten path, you may be wondering, “Is Andorra Worth Visiting?”

In this post, I’ll share my honest opinion and insights from my most recent trip to the tiny country in November 2022! This way, you’ll have everything you need to know to determine if Andorra is actually worth the time and effort for you!

Traveling Soon? Here Are the Travel Resources I Use!

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Is Andorra Worth Visiting? (2023)

My honest but very biased opinion is that Andorra is 100% worth visiting! I absolutely loved visiting this independent principality, and it quickly became one of my favorite parts of my 7-week solo trip across Europe.

But, I know that practically every travel blogger out there will tell you that “x,y,z” is worth visiting — and that’s not super helpful.

Thus, in the spirit of transparency and actually helping you make an informed decision, here are a few cases in which Andorra may or may not be worth it for you!

A picture of the buildings in Andorra la Vella and the towering Pyrenees mountains! These views alone make Andorra worth visiting

Andorra Is Worth Visiting If…

You’re keen on learning about smaller, lesser-known areas . Compared to what you normally see in the two neighboring countries of France and Spain , the views, atmosphere, and experience are completely different in Andorra.

Gone are the hundreds of thousands of tourists that are often met in Barcelona , Lyon , Montreal , Milan , or any other major global city. Instead, you’ll maybe run into a few hundred people a day, and that’s if you’re walking in the really popular areas of town. As soon as you leave the main streets downtown, it clears out pretty quickly!

Another case in which Andorra may be worth visiting is if want to spend your time surrounded by the great outdoors. With over 300 days of sunshine each year, there are plenty of opportunities to take in the stunning scenery that can be found all throughout Andorra.

A picture of the terraced farming in Andorra. Andorra is worth visiting if you want to travel off the beaten path.

Finally, you don’t mind a little extra effort in finding things to do . Despite its small size, the tiny country is full of surprises. There’s a lot to discover, but it isn’t all super well-marked and easily located like it is in other cities. For example, I always found myself laughing because, in Zagreb , you see a post with 20 different museum signs attached every couple of streets lol.

If you identify with any of these descriptions, then Andorra is a destination I’d highly recommend experiencing at least once in your lifetime.

And even if none of the above applies to you, it doesn’t mean that Andorra can’t still offer something special for your vacation – there are countless reasons why people come here! But more on that later! 😉

Andorra Is Not Worth Visiting If…

Alright, so aside from the previous scenarios not really aligning with your interests, here are a few other cases where Andorra might not be worth visiting.

If you have mobility issues , such as difficulty walking long distances or up hills, it might be worth avoiding Andorra. I consider myself a pretty fit person since I like to run at least every other morning. But, my hotel in Andorra was located up a massive hill that had me heaving!

Also, it’s worth mentioning that public transportation in Andorra is not that great.

Another case where you may want to rethink visiting is if you want to be in a big city and crave a lot of activity . Again, with its small size and low population, Andorra is not exactly the most popular destination in Europe.

Sometimes, I’d found myself completely alone while walking around, and it was almost like a bit of culture shock after being in hyper-crowded cities.

A picture of the unique architecture that exists in Andorra. If you can appreciate less opulent architecture, then Andorra is likely worth visiting.

Lastly, if you want to see the most stunning architecture , Andorra might not be worth visiting. I know this is a weird statement, and beauty is in the eye of the beholder… but you’ll want to temper your expectations.

You won’t see these mesmerizing cathedrals on the same scale as those in Rome or Prague. The infrastructure resembles that of Tahiti , where they’re smaller and more intimate. But, there is still an understated beauty about them.

Ultimately, these are just my opinions from my experiences and the people I interacted with while there. And of course, nothing is ever black and white. So, I’d encourage you to keep reading or researching until you can confidently decide 🙂

Map of Andorra

In case geography isn’t your strong suit or you’re just now discovering Andorra’s existence like my mom did when I face-timed her from my hotel in Andorra… Here is Andorra on Google Maps.

You’ll notice several dotted lines within the country’s borders. These are the different communities or parishes. There are a total of seven of them, and Andorra la Vella is the capital of the country!

In terms of size, Andorra is a tiny country, measuring only 180.7 mi² (468 km²), which is just less than half the size of San Diego ! This also makes Andorra the sixth smallest state in Europe. It’s currently being beaten out by Vatican City, Monaco , San Marino, Lichtenstein, and Malta (in that order from smallest to largest).

9 Reasons Why to Visit Andorra

Though small in size, Andorra packs a decent punch and still has a lot to offer visitors. So, if you’re interested in learning more or simply looking for more reasons to travel to a new city (because, same 🙋🏽‍♀️)…Here are 9 additional reasons why to visit Andorra!

1. It’s an Alpine Mountain Paradise

First and foremost, Andorra is worth visiting because the picturesque views of the Pyrenees mountains will take your breath away.

With lush green mountains and picturesque villages that have stood the test of time, it’s an Alpine mountain paradise. And for anyone who enjoys hiking, you can find lots of great trails ranging from super easy to pretty challenging.

A picture of a gorgeous lake in Andorra. Spending time in immersed in the outdoors is one of the reasons Andorra is worth visiting.

Plus, you can even find about 16 via ferratas spread throughout the country.

For those who have no clue what a via ferrata is, it’s a fairly niche activity. Essentially, there are rungs bolted into the sides of cliffs. Think of it like someone took a giant staple and stuck it into the side of a mountain.

You can climb up them and are usually harnessed into a nearby cable rope for safety. And then once you complete the via ferrata, you’re hopefully rewarded with the most spectacular views!

Needless to say, they aren’t for everyone…but, for anyone who doesn’t have an overwhelming fear of heights and doesn’t mind a bit of cliff exposure — I think they’re awesome! Just remember to bring the appropriate clothes and gear (harness, helmet, etc.) or go with an experienced guide . And I recommend Via Ferrata Roc del Quer.

2. You Want to Travel at a Slower Pace

Another reason to visit Andorra is to travel at a much slower pace. As I mentioned earlier, Andorra provides a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of big cities.

The atmosphere is just calmer. You don’t feel pressure to cram and rush to see everything in one day unless you want to. It genuinely feels like you can really take your time and let each moment sink in.

A picture of the lush mountainside in Andorra.

On one of the days I was there, I just wandered around the city for approximately 8 hours. In that time, I covered probably 70-80% of the sights to see in the parish. And it was amazing because I wasn’t exhausted at the end of the day.

You know when you feel pressed for time and you try to fit in as much as possible in your itinerary to make sure you don’t miss out. Yeah — that feeling was gone and Andorra was like a lovely mental reset.

3. Andorra Is Extremely Clean and Beautiful

Unlike other major cities that have tens of millions of tourists passing through annually, Andorra does not. As such, it’s easier to maintain and why everywhere is incredibly clean and beautiful — or at least I think that’s partially the reason why.

The streets are clean and the parks are well-maintained. Everything just feels tidy and aesthetically pleasing, which is something I wasn’t expecting but really appreciated. Plus, it doesn’t feel like it’s been curated for tourists, kind of like Paris or London . You feel as if you’re getting a true look at the local culture, and it was delightful.

A picture of a clean and well-maintained park in Andorra.

The one thing I will mention though is that I saw a very high number of stray cats. One morning I was walking around eating a croissant, and literally, 6 cats came out of nowhere and were suddenly at my feet. So if you are scared of cats or allergic to them — good luck lol.

4. You Can Easily Visit Andorra From Barcelona

Although there’s no major airport you can fly directly into, Andorra is actually not that difficult to get to.

For example, if you’re already visiting Barcelona, you can easily make your way to Andorra by bus or car. The journey from Barcelona to Andorra is a little over 3 hours and the bus prices are very reasonable.

Or if you want significantly more comfort, you could opt to visit with a private tour group. Here’s a breakdown of the top 3 tours to Andorra from Barcelona .

✅ Check availability for this great 1-day tour to Andorra from Barcelona

A panoramic picture of Barcelona taken near Park Guell. Andorra is worth visiting even if you can only do a day trip!

⭐️  RATING : 5/5 | ⏳  LENGTH OF TOUR:  12 hours

The  Spend 1 Day in Andorra Tour  includes:

  • Round-trip private transportation in an air-conditioned car
  • Learning about Andorra’s culture and history
  • Visiting Pont de Margineda near the Spanish border
  • Touring Casa de la Vall in Andorra la Vella
  • See panoramic point at Mirador del Rock del Quer
  • Visit the small village of Ordino
  • Santuario del Meritxell (main sanctuary of Andorra)
  • Personalized tours with up to 6 guests (minimum 2)

This is one of the best tours from Barcelona that allows you to experience Andorra in a single day. You’ll get to intimately explore the small country with a knowledgeable guide and have the best of both worlds by seeing popular tourist attractions as well as the lesser-known hidden gems! So, if you’re in Barcelona and want to have a wonderful time exploring Andorra in a stress-free way, I recommend this fantastic tour!

Antonio was a great guide. We became pretty good friends by the end of the trip. Andorra is a beautiful place and I got to see 3 different areas of the country to get a complete feel for the place. The stops were not rushed. I definitely recommend this tour with Antonio.” – Anirudh K. ( See More Reviews )

✅ See availability for this fantastic 1-day tour to Andorra from Barcelona

5. You Can Easily Visit From the South of France

Similarly, you can also easily visit Andorra from the South of France . Personally, I made the journey from Toulouse , and it was quite nice!

Very windy roads, which is to be expected since you’re literally crossing through the Pyrenees mountains, but otherwise gorgeous views.

The reason I’m citing accessibility as a reason to visit Andorra is that most people I met in Toulouse were heading either to Nice, France, or to Barcelona after passing through Toulouse. And I think it’s pretty common that most people skip over or disregard Andorra because they think it’s not worth visiting or hard to get to.

A picture of the Capitole de Toulouse.

Either way, it’s a shame because Andorra is pretty underrated — but of course, to each their own. Just don’t let the fact it’s small and not in the most central location stop you from visiting! If you want to travel to Andorra from Toulouse or another destination in the south of France, I recommend using Omio . It’s what I personally used to visit Andorra and have been using for the last 5+ years. And you can read more about my experience with Omio here if you’re curious. Just input your travel dates, and where your journey starts, and then you’ll be able to see all the different bus routes and their prices! You can also check ou

✅ 🚌 Check availability and bus routes to Andorra on Omio P.S. If it’s your first time using the platform, you can sign up with this link and get $11 off your first booking .

6. You Can Comfortably Do an Andorra Day Trip

Even if you don’t want to spend too long in Andorra, it’s more than possible to do a day trip. In fact, there are even tours that let you visit Spain, Andorra, and France all in a single day’s time!

This is a great way to catch a glimpse of what Andorra has to offer. Afterward, you can better decide if you want to return for a longer stay.

✅ See the wildly popular and affordable 3-countries in a 1-day tour from Barcelona! 🇪🇸 🇦🇩 🇫🇷

A picture of some of the buildings in Andorra.

7. Locals Are Welcoming

Another reason why Andorra is worth visiting is that the locals are welcoming. Everyone I met and interacted with was kind and friendly.

For example, I asked a local where the trailhead was and he was more than willing to help me out.

The country is inclusive language-wise too — one of the restaurants I went to had four massive menus printed in four separate languages. And I know it’s a small thing, but honestly, not having to google translate a menu is so nice.

8. Mixed Culture With Delicious Food

Speaking of restaurants, Andorra is also a country that has been influenced by many other countries and cultures throughout its history. I’ll spare you the details though because it really is a lot. All you need to know is that because Andorra has been entangled with other countries, it now has a vibrant culture and a fantastic food scene! You’ll see influences from French, Spanish, and Catalan cultures within Andorra.

A picture of Croquettes Kristin ate in Andorra. Trying the delicious food is one of the many reasons Andorra is worth visiting.

And if you’re wondering what type of foods to expect, one traditional dish that is popular is trinxat . It’s made from potatoes, cabbage, onion, bacon, and garlic. This dish is commonly served during the wintertime since that’s when its ingredients are plentiful and I am happy to report that it’s quite flavorsome and delicious!

I would also recommend trying the national dish of Andorra — Escudella . It’s a Catalan stew made with vegetables, different types of meat, and pasta.

Fair warning though, it can be kinda pricey at sit-down restaurants in Andorra — it is a tax haven country after all.

PRO TIP: Plan where you want to eat for dinner in the morning. This way, you can make reservations if they’re needed because I found that the best restaurants are always booked up!

9. Ski Resorts Heaven During the Winter

Last but definitely not least, Andorra is heaven for any ski and snowboard enthusiasts during the winter! There are tons of different ski resort options, and it’s because of this that Andorra sees its greatest number of visitors during the wintertime.

The most popular ski resort in Andorra is Grandvalira , which is the biggest one with over 200 km of slopes catering to those of all skill levels. No matter if you’re a beginner or an expert skier/snowboarder, there are many spots to check out for some skiing or snowboarding fun!

So if you’re looking for a winter destination that has it all — stunning views, great food, and ski resorts galore, then Andorra is definitely worth visiting.

A picture of Andorra mountains covered in snow! If you love snow sports, then visiting Andorra is well-worth it!

Places to Visit in Andorra

If you’re feeling convinced to plan a visit, here are a few specific places to visit in Andorra.

  • Andorra la Vella: Again, this is the capital city and where tourists tend to spend the most time. In the main downtown area, you’ll all kinds of shops, cafés, restaurants, and souvenir shops. There’s even a bridge, the Pont de Paris (ironically), which spells out Andorra la Vella on its side and can be fun to grab a picture at. But, the best part of this parish is Barri Antic (Andorra’s Old Town). There, you’ll be able to see buildings and churches dating back to the 16th century. Also, you can catch some sweet views, especially if your hotel is located in an area like mine.
  • Escaldes Engordany : Here, you’ll find Caldea , which is the largest spa complex in Europe. This incredible spa resort gives my experience at the Termy Chochołowskie , one of the thermal baths in the mountains of Poland, a run for its money! The building has 18 floors filled with mineral water pools, saunas, jacuzzis, and lagoons. And to add a bit of luxury, Caldea features a stunning glass pyramid that’s 80 meters in height, making it the tallest building in Andorra.
  • Encamp : This is the area most people visit for skiing and snowboarding during the wintertime. The previously mentioned Grandvalira is located here, right along the border of Andorra and France . But, it’s no secret that Vallnord in the La Massana parish is also a crowd-favorite for winter sports.

A picture of Caldea in Andorra.

Best Time to Visit Andorra

The best time to visit Andorra really depends on what type of activities you want to do while there.

For instance, if you’re mostly interested in hiking and sightseeing around the city , the best time to visit Andorra is between late May – October when the weather is mild and pleasant. You can expect temperatures that range from a comfortable 50 °F to a nice 75°F. And if you don’t want to be stuck in touristy crowds then go during shoulder season for the best experience.

On the other hand, if you’re looking for winter sports , like skiing and snowboarding, then head over to Andorra between December – February when the ski resorts are bustling with activity. Just know visiting tends to be more expensive during the summer and wintertime!

How Many Days in Andorra Is Enough?

Personally, I spent three days in Andorra and found it to be the perfect amount of time to visit most of the main highlights and still have room for some leisurely activities.

That said, if you’re short on time — or just want to experience a taste of the country before deciding whether to come back for more, then it is possible to visit all the main hotspots in a day trip from Barcelona or France.

You may not be able to take part in some of the more immersive activities — like the spa resort or some of the longer hikes, but you will still be able to get a taste of this beautiful country.

A picture of the gorgeous mountains of Andorra.

At the end of the day, how many days in Andorra is enough really depends on what type of experience you’re looking for. But, my recommendation would be at least two days — three if you have the time and interest to participate in outdoor activities!

Where to Stay in Andorra

If you’re looking for places to stay in Andorra, here are a few of my recommendations based on my experiences and outside research. These are just for Andorra la Vella since that’s where I stayed and spent most of my time!

Low-Cost Stay

  • Barri Antic Hostel & Pub — hostel & hotel | ⭐️ 9.2 / 10 (read my full review here )
  • Hotel Yomo Cèntric — 4-star hotel | ⭐️ 8.6 / 10

Mid-Range Stay

  • Hotel Starc by Pierre & Vacances Premium — 4-star hotel | ⭐️ 9.1 / 10
  • Hotel Metropolis — 4-star hotel | ⭐️ 9.2 / 10

Luxury Stay

  • Grand Plaza Hotel & Wellness — 5-star hotel | ⭐️ 8.6 / 10
  • Andorra Park Hotel — 5-star hotel | ⭐️ 9.2 / 10

That said, if you want to check out other places in Andorra, you can check rates and availability with the buttons below.

Alternatively, you can move around on the interactive map to view up-to-date prices! Just input your dates and it’ll show you all the different housing options!

Visit Andorra: FAQ

According to crime statistics , Andorra is one of the safest countries in Europe and has very low crime rates. And just speaking from my time in the country, I never felt concerned for my safety or uneasy at any point during my stay. I would categorize myself as a small, easily kidnappable female, and even I felt perfectly comfortable walking around alone at night. So with all that in mind, I’d say Andorra is a great place to travel for solo adventurers looking for a peaceful and safe environment!

In my opinion, Andorra absolutely is a beautiful country! It has so many stunning natural landscapes, that I hope most people can appreciate and admire.

Despite not being part of the European Union, the currency of Andorra is the Euro! Also, if you have any questions about entry requirements, you can find answers on the official website of Andorra .

The official language of Andorra is Catalan. That said, you’ll find many locals who also speak French and Spanish since both countries have heavily influenced Andorra. Additionally, I found that a lot of the locals can speak English to a limited extent — enough that they know the basic phrases and you can likely communicate with a bit of patience 🙂

Wrap-Up: Is Andorra Worth Visiting? (2023)

Ultimately, I think that if you love nature, lush mountains, and traveling off the beaten path, then Andorra is well worth visiting.

From its stunning mountain scenery to the unique mix of cultures that this tiny principality offers, there’s something that most people can enjoy.

But of course, it truly does depend on your interests. So, regardless if Andorra is meant for you or not, I hope you learned a bit about what this country has to offer!

A picture of Kristin while hiking around Andorra.

Read More About Europe

  • Want to travel to Eastern Europe? Here are some fascinating facts about the Croatian capital, Zagreb , that will likely make you want to visit!
  • Ready for the ultimate relaxation experience in the Tatra Mountains of Poland? Learn about how to take advantage of Zakopane’s rejuvenating thermal waters!
  • Paris can be overwhelming, but it’s easy enough to escape it all by heading to the countryside! Here’s how to visit Claude Monet’s beautiful gardens in Giverny !

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Kristin is the founder of Global Travel Escapades, a blog dedicated to helping travelers explore beautiful destinations and planning their wildest travel dreams. She has explored 30 countries and is on a mission to visit 50 by age 30. Along the way, she has lived in places like sunny San Diego and the vibrant French capital! Ultimately, Kristin hopes her passion for adventure, delicious food, and all things F1 & tennis inspires others to plan their next travel escapade!

History Fangirl

The Ultimate History Travel Blog Since 2015

15 Magical Things to Do in Andorra in Winter, a Pyrenees Winter Wonderland

Andorra - The Snowy To The Andorra City.

Last Updated on: 19th June 2023, 06:41 pm

Andorra in winter is a sportsman’s paradise. There’s fabulous skiing, snowshoeing, and other fun adrenaline-packed activities.

If you end up spending time in the capital, you’ll find Andorra la Vella in winter to be cozy and relaxing, without the bustle of other European cities. 

Here are the best things to do in Andorra in winter, from action-packed winter sports to restful urban retreats. 

Can’t read now? Pin for later!

best things to do in andorra in winter

My Favorite Travel Booking Sites for 2023

These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels.

Protect Your Trip via Safety Wing

Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viato r .

Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com .

For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.

For road trips and independent travel, rent a car through Discover Cars .

Find information and cruise reviews on Cruise Critic.

For packing and travel essentials order via Amazon .

Book an affordable family or romantic photography session on your trip through Flytographer (Use the code HISTORYFANGIRL for 10% off your first photoshoot).

For travel guidebooks to have with you during your trip, I always pick one or two from Rick Steves and Lonely Planet.

Where to Stay in Andorra

Andorra - Andorra La Vella - Hostel Sign

If you plan on staying in Andorra for more than a day, make sure to book your accommodations ahead of time!

In winter, the resorts, hotels, and hostels book up early since Andorra is a popular winter destination.

Here are my suggestions for where to stay on different budgets for both the capital, Andorra la Vella and the ski resorts. 

Here are the budget categories I will be using:

  • Budget:  A room in a hostel, usually USD 45-65 per night for a dorm bed or under $80 for a double.
  • Mid-range:  Around USD 100-125 per night
  • Luxury : Around $150 per night or more

Andorra La Vella

If you want to spend a night or two in the country’s capital, here is where to stay:

Budget:  For a cozy night on a budget (comparatively speaking, since Andorra is expensive), choose the Hostal Cisco da Sans.  

Set in a historic building right in the heart of the city, you can enjoy the hearty fireplace, authentic stone walls, and charming views. Popular with solo travelers.

Check availability here.

Mid-Range:  If you’re looking for something slightly comfier but still close to downtown, check into the Acra Arthotel .

Praised for their large rooms (by European standards), this is a good hotel for couples or friends traveling together who want to spread out a bit.

This is also a great place to relax since there is a spa, sauna, and Turkish bath on site!

Perfect for someone looking for a more boutique hotel experience.

Luxury:  For a true Andorra luxury experience close to the city center, the only sensible choice is the Andorra Park Hotel.

This five-star luxury property boasts superior reviews for its beautiful views and modern rooms that include spa bathrooms. There are an onsite sauna and fitness center. 

Ski Resort Hotels in Andorra

Whether you are heading straight to a ski resort or you are combining time at the resorts with time in Andorra la Vella, you need to arrange your accommodations ahead of time so they won’t be sold out.

There are two main ski resorts in Andorra, Grandvalira and Vallnord. 

Budget Ski Resort Hotel:  If you are trying to do your ski trip on a strict budget, the Hotel Mila will help you keep your pennies pinched. Located in the village of Encamp in Grandvalira.

These kinds of hotels sell out very early, so jump on it if you see availability. 

Mid-Range Ski Resort Hotel:  If you want an Andorran ski chalet that also has great amenities, book a room at the Hotel Bonavida in Canillo in Grandvalira.

Just fifty meters from the ski lift in Canillo and a short walk to the ice skating rink, this is perfect for travelers who take both their skiing and their apres-ski seriously.

Rooms are cozy and there are a sauna and a hot tub on site.

Luxury Ski Resort Hotel:  The four-star Hotel Spa Princesa Parc in Orsino in Vallnord is just 150 meters from the nearest ski lift. With an onsite wellness center, Turkish bath, Scottish shower, and sauna, you certainly can relax once you’re back from the slopes.

There’s also a game room with bowling and billiards!

The Best Things to Do in Andorra in Winter

In no particular order…

Explore Andorra la Vella’s Old Quarter (Barri Antic) on Foot

Andorra - Andorra La Vella - A Fountain in Andorra La Vella's Historic District Barri Antic

If you love seeing the historic districts of cities, then make sure to spend some time wandering around the charming Old Quarter (Barri Antic), Andora la Vella’s historic old town.

Here you’ll find the Casa la Vella, the country’s house of Parliament for hundreds of years, ending only in 2011.

This part of the city also boasts the famous Church of Sant Esteve, perhaps the city’s most famous landmark.

See the City’s Famous Dali Sculpture

Andorra - Andorra la Vella - Andorra, Andorra la Vella -26.01.2018, Sculpture of Salvador Dali, Bronze Monument - The Nobility of Time.

It might seem strange to find a Salvador Dali statue in the middle of Andorra la Vella, but the statue was a gift to the country from one of Dali’s agents.

Called,  La Noblesse du temps ( The Nobility of Time ), the melting clock symbolizes the passing of time.

No trip to the city is complete without at least stopping to contemplate the masterpiece. 

Shop til You Drop

Andorra - Andorra La Vella - Shopping in Andorra at a Cute Store

Andorra is a shopping haven, and many come to the country just to experience Andorra la Vella’s Shopping Mile.

From high-end brands to low-tax bargains, there’s something here for everyone. 

Relax at Caldea

Andorra - Andorra La Vella - Caldea Spa

If you are desperate for a spa day, Andorra has you covered.

If you’re in the city, head to Caldea, where you can enjoy the sauna, steam room, and thermal pools. You can also book treatments like massages and facials ahead of time. 

Eat Escudella, a Catalan Specialty

Andorra - carn dolla, typical catalan meat and vegetables of a soup escudella for christmas

The perfect hearty winter dish, Escudella is a Catalan specialty. It’s been made in the region for over seven hundred years!

This vegetable and meat stew comes in regular versions and a special Ecudella de Nadal, which is served on Christmas. 

Sample an Andorran Pinot Noir

Andorra - Red wine being poured into shiny wine glasses standing on wooden table.Slightly toned down colors. Restaurant in Andorra -Image

While Andorra’s neighbors, France and Spain, have illustrious wine traditions dating back to the Roman Empire, Andorra’s wineries are relatively new.

However, in just a few decades the five current Andorran wineries have earned a reputation for producing excellent Pinot Noir.

Ask your server for their pairing suggestions.

Go Dog Sledding in Port d’ Envalira

Andorra - Snow, sun and dog sleeding at the mountains in Andorra

Dog Sledding commonly referred to in Andorra as mushing might be the cutest winter activity in Andorra.

Who can resist the thrill of being led by dogs through the beautiful Pyrenees mountains? 

This is a great activity for couples and families with kids, the sleds can accommodate two adults and up to two children at once! 

Check here for schedules, reviews, and pricing.

Up the Adrenaline by Going Out in the Mountains at Night

Andorra - Mushing at Night

If the regular daytime adventures don’t seem exciting enough, you can choose instead to go at night and see the countryside’s ethereal beauty after days. 

Some places offer night mushing, while others offer snow mobiling after dark.

Go Skiing in the Pyrenees

Andorra Ski Lift

Perhaps the single biggest reason to come to Andorra is skiing.

With two world-class ski resorts, you really can’t go wrong.

There are also some of the best-rated ski schools in Europe here, so it’s a good place for first-time skiers to come and learn the ropes. 

Fly Over the Ice in a Snowmobiling

Andorra - Snowmobiling

Snowmobiling is the perfect way to add an extra bit of adventure to your time in Andorra.

Excursions last up to two hours and cover different terrain depending on your skill level (and fear factor). You can even snowmobile through a cave!

Enjoy the Scenery while Snowshoeing

Andorra - Young woman practicing snowshoes on winter trail in incredible sunny day in winter in the Pyrenees in Andorra.

Whether you are a beginner or an old hand, an organized snowshoeing tour is a perfect way to take in the beauty of the Andorran landscape.

Heading out with a professional guide is the perfect opportunity for a beginner to try their hand at a new sport, but experienced snowshoers will enjoy learning about the history of the sport and the area. 

Check here for schedules, reviews, and pricing.  

Get Adventurous on a Personalized Cross-Country Skiing Day

Andorra - Cross-country skiers running a groomed ski trail. Road in mountains at winter in sunny day. Trees covered with hoarfrost illuminated by the sun.

If you’ve always wanted to try cross-country skiing (or even if you are a pro), you’ll love being able to go out and explore some of Andorra’s more advanced cross-country skiing tracks.

Work with a local guide to get a personalized itinerary for a day that matches your goals and skill level.

Take the Whole Family Snowtubing 

Andorra - Young woman and child sliding down in inflatable snow tube

An activity that lets you enjoy the thrills of speeding downhill in a controlled environment, snow tubing is a fabulous family-friendly snow activity that will bring everyone together. 

Tobogganing

Andorra - Sledging on Tobotronc in Naturlandia park, Sant Julia de Loria, Andorra.

If you’re curious about tobogganing, then Andorra is the perfect place to start your exploration since the Naturlandia Tobotronc here is the world’s longest toboggan run.

It’s 5.3 kilometers (and ten minutes) of speed and thrills! 

Visit the Christmas Village

Andorra - Europe is getting ready for Christmas. Beautiful colorful street of Andorra la Vella city decorated by rows of illuminated deers of Santa Claus. Christmas holiday and festive spirit concepts

If you come to Andorra in December, you can enjoy some Christmas spirit along with your holiday shopping.

There are several fairs, markets, and holidays held throughout the Advent season.

There are events held across the country, though the most famous is the Christmas Village in Andorra la Vella. Check with Andora tourism for up-to-date information on this year’s Christmas market dates and locations.

How to Get to Andorra

Andorra - Andorra La Vella - Andorra Bus Station

Andorra does not have an airport. The easiest way to get to Andorra is to fly into Barcelona and drive or take the bus.

Driving takes three hours, while the bus ride is about four. If you come from France, you should fly into Toulouse and take the shuttle which takes about three hours, or you can also rent a car. 

You can arrange for a local English-speaking driver to pick you up in Barcelona via Welcome Pickups.

Check availability for Welcome Pickups.

What to Wear for Winter in Andorra

Consider this a mini Andorra winter packing list. These are the items you will want to walk around Andorra la Vella. If you plan on going skiing, also make sure to pack your ski attire and ski gear.

Women’s Andorra Winter Attire

Here’s what women should bring. 

A Winter Coat:  You need one that can handle the cold like this  North Face parka . 

Thermal Layers:  This  ultra-lightweight down layer  is my new #packinggoals. I don’t own one, but my friend Allison does and she wore hers while we were stuck at a Serbian bus stop in the cold early morning.

I was so jealous, and this is on my future packing lists for anywhere I go that’s cold. It’s great because you can wear it on its own when you need a quick layer of warmth, but you can also wear it under your coat when it’s really cold outside.

Shoes:  Upgrade your regular city boots to a  waterproof version.

Socks:  Upgrade your socks to thick,  warm wool socks .

Gloves:  In Andorra, you’ll be doing a lot of navigating on your smartphone, especially when you need to use public transit.

I found it incredibly annoying to have to take my gloves off every few minutes, so I upgraded to  tech-friendly gloves like these .

They’re also clutch for using your phone to take pictures.

Winter Scarf:  You want a  thick knit scarf  that you can pull up and cover your face when necessary.

Leggings:  You’ll want to be covered from head to toe when you’re outside. Regular leggings are great for late autumn, but for winter swap them for  leggings that are lined with fleece  for extra warmth.

You can wear them under dresses or even slip them under your jeans.

Hat:  A  fleece-lined knit cap  will keep you warm, and you’ll fit right in with the locals.

Men’s Andorra Winter Attire

Here is what I suggest men wear in winter. Just like with women, this is good for walking around the city, but make sure to pack your ski clothes and gear if you’ll be doing activities in the snow.

A Winter Coat:  You need one that can handle the cold like this  North Face parka .

Wool Baselayer:  You’ll want an extra boost of warmth under your shirt as a  wool base layer .

Gloves:   Upgrade to  tech-friendly gloves like these  so you can use your smartphone for pics and to help navigate.

Winter Scarf:  You want a  thick knit scarf  that you can pull up and cover your face when necessary

Hat:  A  fleece-lined knit cap   will keep you warm, and you’ll fit right in with the locals.

5 Things to Bring With You to Andorra

Germany - Berlin - Suitcase and Day Bag packing to leave

An Unlocked  Cell Phone   so that you can use a local sim card while here to help navigate transportation and when you’re on the road.

Backup Charging Bank  for your cell phone since you’ll be using it as a camera, GPS, and general travel genie.

A Great Day Bag   so you can carry what you need with you (like your camera, snacks, water, sunscreen, cash, etc).

My current favorite is the  Pacsafe Citysafe , which is especially great for cities because it has many anti-theft features designed to deter pickpockets.

It also transitions to a night bag more easily and won’t embarrass you if you go to dinner directly after sightseeing all day. 

A Swimsuit!  Even if you’re just coming to Andorra for a day trip, if there’s even a chance you’ll end up at a spa, bring a swimsuit with you!

More Andorra Travel Resources

Andorra - Andorra La Vella -Casa de la Vall in Andorra la Vella.

Coming soon!

Don’t Forget About Travel Insurance!

Before you leave for Andorra make sure you have a valid  Travel Insurance Policy  because accidents happen on the road. I pay for Safety Wing and I happily recommend them.

It’s especially important to get travel insurance if you’ll be hanging out enjoying time in cities where travelers can attract pickpockets, or you will participate in winter sports.

I have used four different travel insurance companies throughout the years, and I can happily recommend Safety Wing.  

If you get sick, injured, or have your stuff stolen, you’ll be happy to have the ability to pay for your medical bills or replace what’s stolen or broken.

Get a travel insurance quote for your trip.

Pin this Guide to Enjoying Winter in Andorra for Your Trip!

best things to do in andorra in winter

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2 thoughts on “15 Magical Things to Do in Andorra in Winter, a Pyrenees Winter Wonderland”

I have been a couple of times during spring time and winter. It´s amazing what you can live and the experience you can enjoy while visiting this amazing country in the pyrinees valley. FRom the south in Saint Julia de Loria (Spanish border) to Pass de la casa (French border).

I will have to go back and see more!

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Top Romantic Things to do in Andorra on a Weekend Getaway

Posted by Anna | Feb 16, 2023 | Andorra , Pyrenees , Romantic Travel | 1

Top Romantic Things to do in Andorra on a Weekend Getaway

This year I set my eyes on Andorra to plan a magical couples’ getaway in the mountains. Check this list of romantic things to do in Andorra to learn more.

  • This post contains affiliate links from which I earn a commission (at no extra cost to you). For more info, please read  my disclosure . As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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Romantic Getaway to Andorra

With St. Valentine’s Day around the corner, there´s no better moment to plan a magical weekend getaway and experience the romantic side of Spain. After my epic Pyrenees road trip this summer I was dreaming of returning.

So, together with my husband, we planned a child-free trip to spend a Valentine’s Day weekend in Andorra, one of the most beautiful places in the Pyrenees.

Why Andorra? – Mainly because the Pyrenees is one of my favorite travel destinations in Spain. But my last few Pyrenees adventures took place in the Spanish region of Huesca , and the winter wonderland of Baqueira Beret . So, even though I´ve already visited Andorra on two occasions – time flies. I was dreaming of returning in search of new experiences with a romantic twist.

Also read: Top Romantic Legends from Spain You´ll Love

Andorra fits the bill when it comes to vacation ideas for couples. First of all, it has a beautiful and isolated mountain setting to escape the rest of the world. Secondly, you’ll be surprised to find out there are lots of unique and romantic things to do in Andorra. You can plan a getaway for all tastes and preferences.

In this post, I will share all the things with a romantic twist that we have done during our Valentine’s Day weekend in Andorra this year.

About Andorra

In case you haven’t heard of Andorra before – let me share a few facts. 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. I have already visited Andorra three times but will return more for sure.

If you’re looking for more information and travel tips on Andorra check out my Andorra Travel Guide .

Romantic Things to do in Andorra

Waking up to the mountain views.

andorra mountain vies hotel

The best things in life are often quite simple.

There’s no better morning for me than the one you wake up in a new place to inspiring landscapes, excited about your upcoming travel plans. No way you can get off on the wrong foot with a morning like this one.

While in my Andorra Travel Guide , I have already confessed to you trying to live in different places during my trips to Andorra, this time I enjoyed it more than ever. Abba Xalet Suites Hotel , where we stayed, was located in the small town of La Massana , only 11km from the country´s capital of Andorra la Vella . Staying here felt so quiet and serene.

Taking Funicamp Cable Car in Andorra

andorra grand valira views

Even non-skiers can visit one of Europe’s top ski stations Grandvalira and enjoy a bird’s eye view of the Pyrenees.

In the small town of Encamp , you’ll find the Funicamp Cable Car, which will take you 2,502m above sea level in 25 min. The ticket for non-skiers costs 15 euros and includes 2 rides up and back (valid for the same day only). We took the cable car around 3 p.m. and were the only ones inside it. However, on our way back, as the slopes were closing, it was fully packed with skiers.

Once up, we headed to the nearest Restaurant Solanelles to enjoy hot chocolate with the views.

Living a new adventure together in Andorra

naturlandia winter activities andorra travel guide

What I really like about Andorra is its large number of adventurous activities available both in summer and winter. You’ll be spoilt for choices: dog sledding in Port d’ Envalira, snowmobiling, snow tubing, Magic Gliss in  Grandvalira , ice skating at  Palau de Gel d´Andorra , cross-country skiing, Tobotronc and other wither adventures in  Naturlandia Amusement Park.

For couples ready to go out of their comfort zone – a new adventure together will definitely feel like one of the most romantic things to do in Andorra.

Since, you can easily visit Andorra from Spain on a day trip – I’ve included Naturlandia in my list of Adventurous things to do in Spain .

Getting each other gifts in Andorra

andorra la vella travel shopping

Due to its low taxes Andorra is one of the ultimate shopping destinations in Europe. Although you can take products out of the country up to a value limit of 900 euros without having to pay customs duties. Read more in my Andorra Travel Guide .

Also read: Charming International Romance Movies Around the World

Av. Meritxell, c.Bonaventura , and  av.Carlemany  – all these are the main shopping streets in the city of  Andorra La Vella . In Andorra, you can easily surprise each other with a few souvenirs. Or what´s even better – find for each other a new sweater or dress. I’ve recently read in one of the psychology books that these might end up being the best lovey-dovey gifts ever. A new dress from your partner sends a powerful message, especially the one he’d chosen with love and inspiration. It literally says to you I am with you , I am hugging you , I support you .

Therefore, this year there is a new tradition we’ve established with my husband – for some holidays we make each other clothing gifts to send those virtual hugs.

With it large number of shops, Andorra is a perfect place to find gifts during your romantic getaway.

Planning a SPA day in Andorra

caldea spa andorra

One of the most romantic things to do in Andorra is to go to a SPA together with your loved one. With such a spectacular natural setting and plenty of active sports, no wonder that Andorra is a trendy wellness destination for the Spaniards. It feels so enjoyable to soak in after a day full of winter activities. Many of the Andorra hotels house their own spa centers.

Also read: The Most Romantic Vacation Ideas Around the World

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, we had such a great time at Caldea on this 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.

Enjoying dinner in la borda

arroz montaña andorra

A must-experience in Andorra 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.

Andorra’s cuisine combines French and Catalan influences. You can save on IG my list of Andorran typical foods to know what exactly to order in Andorra´s bordas .

Having an art moment at Carmen Thyssen Museum of Andorra

andorra museum thyssen

Art lovers can’t miss the Carmen Thyssen Museum of Andorra.

It is such a tiny and cute museum. But they renew the exhibition every year. Around 12.45 pm we were the only ones inside. I loved it so much that the audio guide had a song option for every artwork (created by local artists). I would listen to the explanation first, then turn the song on and marvel at the painting or sculpture. This felt like such a unique way to listen to this dialogue between art and music.

Enjoying a spiritual moment together in Andorra

meritxell basilica andorra

If you want to share a quiet and spiritual moment together – don’t miss The Sanctuary of Meritxell Basilica.

The Sanctuary of Meritxell Basilica is the most important religious temple in Andorra, known for its unique architecture (created by the renowned Spanish architect Ricardo Bofill ). The sanctuary houses the image of Our Lady of Meritxell, the country’s Patron Saint, as well as statues of other Andorran Saints. You can also walk around the hall to check out the miniatures of all the Romanesque churches of Andorra.

Sharing a cheese fondue in Andorra

cheese fondue andorra

While fondue can’t be considered the most typical local dish in Andorra, it is a must on all of my winter trips.

Andorra has quite a few restaurants specializing in cheese, fondue, and raclette. Sharing a delicious fondue together definitely feels like one of the most romantic things to do in Andorra.

Romantic Things to do in Andorra - pinterest

For more inspiration don´t miss my Pinterest board  The Ultimate Spain Travel Collection.

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About The Author

Anna

Traveling in Spain non-stop is my biggest obsession. Looking for Spanish hidden gems and local travel tips? - You are in the right place! Let me be your insider guide to Spain!

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Rhonda

Andorra looks like a lot of fun. I know somebody who used to work in hospitality in Andorra and wish I had gone to visit when I was in Spain. Naturlandia looks like a lot of fun.

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Barcelona to Andorra: The Perfect Weekend Getaway?

September 30, 2016 by Silvia 14 Comments

Barcelona and Andorra are two places that I probably wouldn’t have thought to visit on my own. Barcelona seemed a bit too touristy and (maybe) boring to me, while I had never heard anything good about Andorra – I just thought it was one of those places people visit so they can add another country to their list and buy duty free electronics.

But when my mom suggested we spend a weekend in Barcelona with a night in Andorra I jumped right on board, mostly because traveling anywhere with my mom is really fun.

And then I jumped over to Pinterest to do some actual travel research into Barcelona and Andorra (and how to get the bus from Barcelona to Andorra) and started getting really excited. And guys, they so, so did not disappoint.

Maybe it was because I went in late September so there were fewer tourists, maybe it was because I hadn’t been anywhere warm all summer, or maybe it was because it’s simply a really cool city, but I loved spending a weekend in Barcelona.

I loved wandering through the different neighborhoods, I loved every single thing I ate there, I loved the Gaudi buildings (duh), and of course I loved finally getting a bit of beach time. The city had me constantly smiling.

But the highlight of the trip was definitely Andorra.

I think my mom and I both secretly really wanted to love Andorra after hearing pretty much nothing good about it (gotta root for the underdog!), so when our bus from Barcelona pulled into the beautiful valley high up in the Pyrenees that’s home to Andorra la Vella we were maybe a  bit  excited.

Like, it’s a good thing there were no boys on this trip, because they definitely would have been embarrassed by our enthusiasm. I think the entire 24 hours we spent in Andorra were filled with exclamation points.

We’re in a new country! Look at the mountains! There are houses built all the way up there! Like in Bhutan! The streets are so narrow! Our hotel is so nice, I can’t believe it was so cheap! These statues are so weird! Look at the old stone buildings!  It feels like a ski resort! I’m going to buy this dress! Let’s have cheese fondu for dinner! I LOVE CHEESE SO MUCH!

Lol, it was maybe a bit absurd.

Andorra la Vella is a strange place. But there are also a lot of really fun things to do in Andorra!

With an area of under 470 square kilometers,  Andorra is a bit of a strange country, really. Its main industry is tourism, popular for its ski slopes and status as a tax haven. In fact, most of the blog posts I read about Andorra before visiting described it as a giant Walmart. I think that’s a bit unfair, as I found it quite pretty (I mean, hello Pyrenees), but it’s true that there are a lot of shops there.

What I hadn’t realized was that even the clothing stores offer discounts. Uh, mountains AND cheap Zara? Andorra is my new favorite country ever.

Okay, maybe not quite. But I did really enjoy my short time there, and I would definitely love to return – maybe in the winter to go skiing. And I’m definitely going to recommend a short trip to Andorra to anyone heading to Barcelona. I think it’s especially perfect as a girls’ trip!

The bus from Barcelona to Andorra only takes a little over 3 hours and the ride is really beautiful – I felt like I was getting a mini tour of Spain on the drive. Plus accommodation in Andorra is about half the price of Barcelona, so you’re essentially saving money by going (plus all the money you’ll be saving from all the shopping you’ll do there, because that’s totally how it works, right?).

And like I said, with all the hikes around the country, shops to be shopped at, and places to eat in Andorra, there really are lots of things to do in Andorra and I’d say it’s totally worth the trip.

Where to Stay in Andorra

There are tons of inexpensive four star hotels in Andorra, so to be honest I sort of just randomly landed on Hesperia Andorra. But I’m glad we stayed there, as the room and bathroom were huge and we had a balcony with a view over Andorra, plus it was an easy walk from the bus station. Perfect! Check current rates and availability here

Where to Stay in Barcelona

My mom was in charge of choosing our Barcelona accommodation, so sadly I can’t take credit for our wonderful finds.

We spent our first two nights at the Hotel Catalonia Sagrada Familia, which she chose because it’s right by the Clot metro stop, which is on the train line from the airport (so really convenient to get to) as well as an easy walk to the Sagrada Familia, which she had really wanted to see since she’s into architecture like that.

The hotel is a bit away from the main tourist areas, which could be inconvenient if you have a packed schedule, but I loved seeing a quieter area of Barcelona. Check current rates and availability here

Construction on the Sagrada Familia commenced in 1882 and now has an anticipated completion date of 2026 – 10 years from now, woohoo!

And after we returned from Andorra we stayed at Chic and Basic Born, which might be one of the coolest hotels I’ve ever stayed at. I feel like I’m always looking for unique places to stay because I hate when accommodation is totally generic and feels like you could be staying anywhere, but often it’s just like, how unique can a hotel really be?

Well, Chic and Basic Born really was unlike anywhere else I’ve stayed. The rooms are in an old 19th century building in the Born district so they’ve had to creatively design around existing elements in the building, and what they’ve come up with is really cool! Highly recommended. Check current rates and availability here

Getting from Barcelona to Andorra by Bus

We simply bought roundtrip tickets to Andorra la Vella an hour before departure at the bus terminal next to Sants train station. We went with Direct Bus which took about 3 hours and cost 50 euros roundtrip. You can find the bus schedule here .

Just so you know, we paid for this trip ourselves and none of these hotel stays were sponsored, but the hotel links are affiliate links, so if you book these or any hotels through my links I’ll earn a small commission, at no extra expense to you – this helps cover the cost of running my site. Thanks, guys!

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September 30, 2016 at 5:35 pm

Great, you liked Barcelona. I lived there for more than three years and somehow never made it into Sagrada Familia or to Andorra. I guess I kept it unchecked off my bucketlist, just to have a reason to return one day. Thank you for this amazing post. I really like those colourful impressions.

Saludos, Sussy.

September 30, 2016 at 6:06 pm

A day trip to Andorra from Barcelona – what a brilliant idea! I may do the same sometime 🙂

Csilla says

October 1, 2016 at 11:58 am

Barcelona is definitely on of my favourite European cities! Yes, it is touristy, but yes, you can find your way around and enjoy some off-the-beaten-path places while visiting the must-see places. 🙂

Your pictures are beautiful!

October 1, 2016 at 7:42 pm

You’ve made both of these destinations sound amazing! I would love to visit Barcelona just for the architecture. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever seen.

October 2, 2016 at 1:21 am

I really love your pictures. The colors are truelly incredible !

Dominique says

October 2, 2016 at 11:15 am

Exactly this trip is on my travel list for next year! I’m looking forward to visiting Barcelona next year, but also Andorra! Sounds like a nice weekend getaway.

Annika says

October 5, 2016 at 6:01 pm

I’ve been wanting to go on a similar trip for ages but could not find a lot of feedback about it, so it’s great to hear it’s as enjoyable as I expect it to be!

Just found your blog and it looks great. Looking forward to reading about previous travels as well

Silvia says

October 11, 2016 at 8:17 pm

Yes, definitely do it, it’s so good!

Our Wanders says

October 7, 2016 at 3:37 pm

We are also thinking about visiting Barcelona in spring or autumn to avoid the crowd – at least we heard it’s very crazy and not enjoyable in summer. It definitely looks like a city we could enjoy though! And thanks for the tip to visit Andorra! Did you also do some hiking there? Guess there should be some nice panoramic hikes in the area. 🙂

October 11, 2016 at 8:20 pm

We didn’t have time to go hiking there, but I would have loved to! The surrounding mountains looked incredible. And I didn’t find Barcelona crowded at all, so autumn is definitely a good time to go!

Melissa says

January 6, 2017 at 8:05 pm

I didn’t realise Andorra is so small. I really enjoyed your write up and photos. Barcelona has never been a consideration. But I will research a bit more and look at visiting in the summer

January 7, 2017 at 12:02 pm

It really is an interesting place!

August 8, 2017 at 11:55 pm

If you love to hike Andorra is the perfect destination in late spring and fall!

October 3, 2018 at 9:11 pm

Andorra is among the most incredible places I have visited in the last year and indeed these places mentioned in the post are very good for sightseeing and sightseeing. I like the region because of the variety of options for having fun with friends. I also recommend the local restaurants where they offer different kinds of different foods and very tasty. I loved the post 🙂

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Once a full-time nomad, I'm now trying to find a balance between continuing to explore off the beaten path places around the world while also building a home in Norway. Want to know more? Head to my About page !

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Book your perfect ski holiday in Andorra with us.

A sovereign state or Principality in southwestern Europe,  Andorra set in the Pyrenees is bordered by both France and Spain. The ski area in Andorra known as Grandvalira boasts the largest ski area in the Pyrenees and has a great selection of hotels, chalets and apartments with many being of a 4 star standard.  Andorra has had an excellent snow record for some years and hosted the World Cup ski racing at the Grandvalira resort of Soldeu.

What Is It Like Skiing In Andorra

Ski holidays in Andorra are perfect for beginners, advanced skiers and snowboarders.  The country has a wide selection of ski slopes to suit all levels especially improving intermediates and beginners.  The ski schools are known throughout Europe for both their level of expertise and service.

The capital of Andorra “Andorra La Vella” is very much worth a visit with many impressive restaurants.  The shopping with it’s low tax status is also worth visiting as well.  Why not visit Caldea Spa with thermal spas, saunas, jacuzzis and an incredible 25000 square metres of hot springs.

Accommodation In Andorra – Book Now

Whether you are travelling as a family, couple or part of a group,  we’ll help you put together the perfect ski holiday in Andorra.  You can choose from a variety of accommodation options to suit your requirements.  From 4 and 5 star hotels to value accommodation in Andorra, there is something to suit all budgets.

We are here to provide guidance on the best places to stay, where to hire equipment or go to ski school when you get here, and we’ll give you all the help and advice you need along the way.  You can either book a complete ski holiday in Andorra with us, or just your accommodation.  We also offer airport transfers, ski rental, lift passes and ski school lessons.

We aim to make sure your holiday is as enjoyable as possible from the moment you arrive in Andorra.  Our staff are on hand to help at our resort office, or you can call us any time on our 24 hour telephone number.

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Andorra Snow Weekend - Ski Trip from Barcelona

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  • Introduction
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  • Day 2 Saturday: Ski, Board, Grub
  • Day 3 Sunday: Breakfast, Ski, Go Home

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Stoke does travel your way, we won’t herd you around with inflexible itineraries, losing track of the beauty of travel. None of Stoke’s trips are identical, but there is a consistent theme. We like to consider our guests to be participants in the experience, not observers. We create an environment where you feels you ‘own’ your trip, with enough flexibility in our schedule for you to make your own decisions as to what you do. We consider ourselves ‘fun merchants', we believe that fun can be created, and is indeed valuable to the traveler. When you’re looking back on the travels you’ve done, surely the trips where you’ve had the most fun will be the trips you remember most fondly. There is no set formula for fun, and everybody enjoys different things, but we make sure the environment is there for you to enjoy yourself while you’re traveling with us.

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Andorra Snow Weekend - Ski Trip from Barcelona reviewer 1

  • S Shay · 20th February 2018 Had an amazing time on our recent trip to Andorra for my first time skiing! Our tour leaders Erin & Casey were really helpful and easy going. First timers- I would definitely recommend lessons, but suss out your options if you are there for a short trip! Trip date: February 2018

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  • TB Tessa · 10th March 2017 I went to Andorra a couple of weeks ago, this was my second trip with Stoke Travel and it was a lot of fun. The guides from stoke where really nice and helpful. I went with a couple of friend from Barcelona, I study here, so it was perfect that it was... Show more Trip date: February 2017
  • JB James · 20th January 2017 I went on the Andorra weekender and had an absolute ball! I really liked the atmosphere and the old school ski outfits that some of the staff were wearing! I snowboarded all day on Saturday and then got to know everyone and had some beer and Sangria in... Show more Trip date: January 2017
  • OB Olivia · 4th January 2017 Last year I went on the Andorra Snow weekend with Stoke Travel and had the best time! I bused from Barcelona with the group. We had hotel accommodation in a gorgeous little town not far from the mountain. It was all so easy! The cost of the trip... Show more Trip date: January 2016
  • H Henrike · 3rd January 2017 Ohh wauw, I don't know were to start. the pup crawls were the the most fun I have ever had! The skiing was great, laughed a lot and made great friends. Dinner and accommodation are the best. Bus rides are never fun, but Stoke works with what they got... Show more Trip date: February 2016

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Frequently Asked Questions

We recommend staying the Sunday night in Barcelona. Because of traffic leaving Andorra, we can sometimes get back into Barcelona later than the scheduled time (as late as 10:30/11). We can help you out with accommodation in Barcelona.

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Andorra Ski Weekend

Our fully flexible holidays mean that booking a ski weekend to Andorra is very easy.  Here are a couple of sample itineraries to help you get an idea of what is possible.

Short Ski Weekend

Friday - Late flight in to Barcelona, eg. easyJet from Southend at 18:10 gets to Barcelona at 21:10. - Catch the late shared bus from Barcelona to your chosen resort, leaves Barcelona T2 at 22:15.

Saturday - Pick up your ski hire and lift pass, then hit the slopes. - Weekend group lessons are available if you want them, three hours per day. - If you're staying in Grandvalira Pas de la Casa the night skiing slope is open until 20:00.

Sunday - Another full day on the slopes. - Three hours group lesson if you need it.

Monday - Morning on the mountain. - Transfer leaves around 14:00-14:15 (depending on your resort). - Evening flight from Barcelona, eg. easyJet to Southend at 21:45.

So with just one extra day off work you can get 2½ days on the slopes, with options to join in with group lessons as well as night skiing.

Long Ski Weekend

Thursday - Evening flight to Barcelona, eg. easyJet from Luton at 17:10 arrives in Barcelona at 20:15. - Take the shared transfer from Barcelona to Andorra, leaving Barcelona T2 at 22:15.

Friday - Collect your ski rental and lift pass , then hit the slopes.

Saturday - Second full day on the slopes. - Weekend group lessons are available if required. - If you're staying in Grandvalira Pas de la Casa the night skiing slope is open until 20:00.

Sunday - Third full day on the slopes. - Weekend group lessons are available if you want them, three hours per day.

Monday - Squeeze in another half day on the mountain with a late flight back; - Or take a daytime flight home to be more refreshed after a hard weekend skiing!

As you can see, with an extra night you can choose to either have three full days on the slopes, with a more relaxed trip home, or make the most of your time in the mountains and squeeze in 3½ days skiing.

How To Book

All our trips are fully flexible, so use the menu to build your trip, from flights to transfers to accmoodation as well as all the ski extras you need such as lift passes, group lessons and equipment hire.

Our team are here to help too - we have staff in Grandvalira and Vallnord ski areas who can give advice and help you plan your trip, so just ask us if you have any questions.

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What do we love about skiing in Andorra?

Nestled between France and Spain, Andorra has long been renowned among the UK ski market as a low-cost, party-centric ski destination - but things have changed in recent years; after significant investment in winter tourism, Andorra has moved further upmarket and succeeded in shaking off it’s cheap and cheerful reputation. Now, with an impressive range of 2-5* hotels and apartments spread across its three main ski resorts, well-connected ski areas, high-end shops and a multitude of appealing bars and restaurants, Andorra provides a great alternative to those skiers more accustomed to holidaying in the Alps. Despite its transformation, Andorran ski resorts have managed to retain their unique Pyrenean charm and vibrant nightlife, and ski holidays in Andorra are not only a cultural experience, but the Spanish-influenced cuisine is a joy to the taste buds. Believe us when we say that nothing compares to some Sangria and Tapas after a long day pounding the slopes! Moreover, in Andorra your spending money can go a long way; as taxes are low, shopping is inexpensive and it’s worth checking out some of the fantastic designer shops in the affluent capital La Vella. Low costs also extend to the resorts meaning those piste-side lunches and apres beers will be comparatively cheaper than Alpine resorts.

Strikingly mountainous, Andorra boasts great scenery and great skiing. It would appear that skier’s interests were at the heart of Andorra’s renovation; which encompassed improved resort infrastructure, enhanced snow-making, and the addition of new lifts to ensure ski areas were well linked. Where’s best suited to your group however will depend on your ability levels; with an abundance of progressive ski terrain, the resort of Arinsal is ideal for beginners and intermediates, whilst Soldeu and Pas de la Casa - which share 210 kilometres of the extensive and well linked Grandvalira ski area - truly cater for all. Experts after some freeride would be well advised to check out Arcalis at the head of the valley – accessible by a bus ride from Arinsal.

Overall, with varied skiing, a great resort atmosphere and excellent value, Andorra does offer something for everyone and is a great option for skiers seeking a change of scenery from the Alps. Furthermore, Ski Weekends fly into both Barcelona and Toulouse meaning there is a fantastic choice of cheap flights available from the UK - ideal for a short ski break!

Ski Weekends resorts in Andorra

Pas de la casa, soldeu  , arinsal... soak up arinsal's ambience.

Situated in the Val Nord ski area, Arinsal has a lively vibe and bustling  apres ski  scene and is generally a place where people are always having fun. Soak up the ambience by experiencing live music on the slopes or enjoy the atmospheres of Arinsal's amazing bars and restaurants. As well as awesome skiing, Arinsal has some fantastic off-the-slope activities  to try, including skidooing and dog-sledge riding. Arinsal has some great skiing and is also a free-riders dream with freestyle snow parks and the host of the free ride world tour, so there's always something to catch your interest. Book your next ski break to Arinsal for a truly top class holiday. 

Pas de la Casa... Have a party in Pas

Pas de la Casa is known as the party central of Andorra. And whilst this may certainly be true, it offers much more than just amazing apres ski . Being a convenient resort, everything in Pas de la Casa is centrally located around the base of the ski lifts, making your holiday super simple. It is also the highest resort in the Pyrenees, meaning amazing skiing and snow security all season long. With awesome off-piste to explore and sensational snow parks for the adventurous, Pas de la Casa really is an exciting place to be!

Soldeu... Experience relaxing spas in Soldeu

Soldeu is the resort for skiing, snow and spas. If your idea of apres ski is relaxing in a jacuzzi or taking a dip in the pool then Soldeu really is the place for you. With many of our fantastic hotels having amazing spas, you will be able to indulge, relax and truly unwind in Soldeu this winter. Soldeu also boasts some attractive views of tree-lined pistes and open mountains as well as having access to the huge Grandvallira ski area with over 210km of skiing to be explored. Be sure to not miss the awesome Iglu-Hotel up at Grau Roig where you can spend an evening with a difference. For your next short ski break, Soldeu really is a fantastic place to be!

To find out more about skiing in Andorra, feel free to call one of our ski experts on 023 8020 6971/

or email [email protected]  

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  1. 15 Best Places to Visit in Andorra

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  2. The BEST Andorra Tours and Things to Do in 2022

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  3. Le Grand Andorra Après Ski Weekender

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  4. 4 Best Andorra Tours & Trips 2024

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  5. Planning to Visit Andorra? This Is What to Do, See, and Eat

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  6. Three peaks hike in Sorteny Valley, Andorra

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COMMENTS

  1. The Perfect Weekend Itinerary in Andorra (48

    At $50 per person for their cheapest pass (early morning), you can choose to indulge in their adults only section or even purchase multi day passes for your entire trip. Go Shopping - Andorra is known as a shopping hub, mainly because of the tax-free luxury shopping opportunities. Even though we aren't much of shoppers ourselves, it was fun ...

  2. The best things to do in Andorra and why you should visit

    When we were kids, Andorra was a popular weekend road trip. At only a couple of hours from Barcelona it made for a refreshing getaway between nature and mountains and it was a place where we could buy goods that were not yet available in 80s and 90s Spain, just out of a 40 year dictatorship.

  3. 1 Day In Andorra La Vella: The Perfect Andorra La Vella Itinerary

    This Andorra la Vella itinerary starts at Plaça Lidia Armengol (also called Plaça dels 7 Poetes), a square about 250 meters from the Estació Nacional d'Autobusos de Andorra. This is where you can admire "7 Poets" (in Catalan, "7 Poetes"), a sculptural ensemble created by the renowned Catalan artist Jaume Plensa.

  4. The Perfect One Day in Andorra Itinerary

    Wander the capital city of Andorra la Vella. Kickstart your one day in Andorra itinerary at the capital city. Make time to wander the old town of Andorra la Vella, and explore quaint streets and cafes. We recommend checking off the main attractions first and then spending time at Parc Central, or going shopping. 2.

  5. Visitandorra, the official Andorra tourism website

    Photos, videos, GPX tracks and even 360º Google Maps photos, meaning you won't miss a thing on your trip to the Principality. Practical advice for visiting the Principality of Andorra. If you have any questions about your trip to our country, you'll find information and tips to help you out.

  6. 15 Best Places to Visit in Andorra

    3. Pas de la Casa Source: BreizhAtao / shutterstock Pas de la Casa. Nestled on the border with France, Pas de la Casa is one of Andorra's top ski resorts, and now features 31 ski lifts to allow visitors access to all areas below the Pic d'Envalira.Unlike some of the other ski resorts in Andorra, Pas de la Casa better serves intermediate or advanced skiers as there are a number of red ...

  7. The Ultimate 2023 Andorra Hiking Weekend Guide

    The endpoint of the Estany de Cabana Sorda hike. 4. Caldea Thermal Spa. The famous Andorran spas are the largest of its kind in Southern Europe. After a day of speed hiking, we looked forward to a relaxing spa. The Caldea Thermal Spa is one of Andorra's most well known attractions.

  8. The Best Andorra Hiking Weekend Guide (Updated 2024)

    Andorra Weekend Hiking Trip Recap. As you have probably gathered by now, Andorra is a beautiful country jam-packed with serene nature and stunning mountainous surrounds attributed to the Pyrenees. This two day Andorra hiking guide covers the most amazing trails, plus the best of the rest in terms of natural attractions and activities. ...

  9. Looking for things to do in Andorra? Let us be your guide

    Andorra has everything you need for an enjoyable weekend escape or an unforgettable holiday. Nature, sport, culture, wellness, shopping, food… Organise your trip now! ... If you like to make the most of every last second of your trip, Andorra has plenty for you. First, we have a range of sports activities. When the cold and snow are on the ...

  10. Andorra: What to see for a Day?

    The square in front of the main landmarks in Andorra la Vella- The Church of Sant Esteve. Andorra is a tiny country, located between Spain and France. Being the 16th smallest country in the world by land and the 11th smallest by population, Andorra is mostly famous as a ski- destination. Due to its size, it is perfect for a weekend trip as well.

  11. 5 Fun Things to Do in Andorra la Vella For a Weekend

    Things to Do in Andorra la Vella Hike the Trails. Andorra is a mountainous paradise and welcomes hikers and trekkers of all abilities. There are over 50 trail routes for hiking in Andorra and five major European long-distance trekking routes cross through the principality. For those on a longer journey, there are over 30 mountain huts where trekkers can stay for the night.

  12. Andorra Ski Weekenders

    Stoke Travel's Andorra Ski weekenders. JAN 26-28 | FEB 2-4 | FEB 9-11 | FEB 16-18 |FEB 23-25 | MAR 1-3 | MAR 8-10 | MAR 15-17 |. A unique ski weekend in Andorra, where we do all the nice things and have all the good times we can in three days. Only a couple of hours from downtown Barcelona, this is the perfect after-work/school trip for ...

  13. 33 Cool Things to Do in Andorra • 33 Travel Tips

    Start Planning Your Trip to Andorra with Our BEST Recommendations: ⭐ Top Tours in Andorra ⭐. 📍 3 Countries in 1 Day - the best day trip from Barcelona to Andorra.. 📍 Andorra Helicopter Tour - the most exhilarating aerial views of Andorra.. ⭐ Best Accommodations in Andorra ⭐. 🏨 Andorra Park Hotel - spoil yourself with a lux spa stay in the capital's center.

  14. Is Andorra Worth Visiting? 9 Reasons Why to Visit Andorra (2023)

    1. It's an Alpine Mountain Paradise. First and foremost, Andorra is worth visiting because the picturesque views of the Pyrenees mountains will take your breath away. With lush green mountains and picturesque villages that have stood the test of time, it's an Alpine mountain paradise.

  15. 15 Magical Things to Do in Andorra in Winter, a Pyrenees Winter

    My Favorite Travel Booking Sites for 2023. These are my favorite companies that I use on my own travels. Protect Your Trip via Safety Wing. Find the best city tours, day tours, bus tours, & skip-the-line tickets on GetYourGuide and Viator.. Find the best deals on hotels & vacation rentals on Booking.com.. For English-speaking private airport transfers, book through Welcome Pickups.

  16. Top Romantic Things to do in Andorra on a Weekend Getaway

    Enjoying dinner in la borda. Arroz a la montaña / Borda Eulari. A must-experience in Andorra 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.

  17. Top Andorra Itineraries

    Andorra Tours Reviews & Ratings. Best Travel Agency By Far!! We have used Global Journeys a few times since 2013 to book our tours, accommodation, and flights; each and every time the level of service has been marvellous. The team at Global Journeys are very knowledgeable, reliable and customer focused. Global Journeys offer very competitive ...

  18. Andorra

    A BACKPACKER'S GUIDE TO ANDORRA. This little-known principality is tucked into the Pyrenees Mountains between Spain and France. It's known for its mountains and valleys, skiing slopes and tax-free haven status - including cheap cigarettes…. Read More. 6 years ago. city guide, Andorra, country guide, destination guide.

  19. Barcelona to Andorra: The Perfect Weekend Getaway?

    Andorra la Vella is a strange place. But there are also a lot of really fun things to do in Andorra! With an area of under 470 square kilometers, Andorra is a bit of a strange country, really. Its main industry is tourism, popular for its ski slopes and status as a tax haven. In fact, most of the blog posts I read about Andorra before visiting ...

  20. Ski Andorra

    We also offer airport transfers, ski rental, lift passes and ski school lessons. We aim to make sure your holiday is as enjoyable as possible from the moment you arrive in Andorra. Our staff are on hand to help at our resort office, or you can call us any time on our 24 hour telephone number. Best Prices on Hotels & Apartments in Arinsal, Soldeu.

  21. Andorra Snow Weekend

    With the Active Adventure tour Andorra Snow Weekend - Ski Trip from Barcelona, you have a 3 days tour package taking you through Barcelona, Spain and Andorra La Vella, Andorra. Andorra Snow Weekend - Ski Trip from Barcelona includes accommodation in a hotel as well as an expert guide, meals, transport and more. Expand All.

  22. Andorra Ski Weekend

    Short Ski Weekend. - Late flight in to Barcelona, eg. easyJet from Southend at 18:10 gets to Barcelona at 21:10. - Catch the late shared bus from Barcelona to your chosen resort, leaves Barcelona T2 at 22:15. - Pick up your ski hire and lift pass, then hit the slopes. - Weekend group lessons are available if you want them, three hours per day.

  23. Ski Resorts in Andorra

    To find out more about skiing in Andorra, feel free to call one of our ski experts on 023 8020 6971/. or email [email protected]. Book a ski holiday in Andorra! We offer ski breaks to Andorran resorts including Pas de la Casa, Soldeu and Arinsal. Enquire online now!