Andorra – Travel Guide
Andorra, a tiny principality nestled in the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain, beckons visitors with its stunning alpine landscapes and outdoor activities. The capital, Andorra la Vella, charms with its historic old town, duty-free shopping, and the Casa de la Vall, the seat of government. Ski resorts like Grandvalira and Vallnord offer world-class slopes and winter sports opportunities. Caldea, Europe`s largest thermal spa, provides relaxation and wellness experiences year-round. Andorra`s natural beauty, tax-free shopping, and outdoor adventures make it a hidden gem for travelers seeking mountain escapes.
All about Andorra
Andorra FAQ
What is Andorra known for?
The Principality of Andorra, one of the smallest nations in Europe, is perhaps best-known for its position deep in the Pyrenees Mountains. It is a popular outdoor adventure destination, with people enjoying everything from skiing to hiking to rock climbing to kayaking. Andorra`s status as a duty-free haven brings hundreds of thousands of shoppers to the capital, Andorra la Vella, each year, buying tax-free luxury goods and even inexpensive cigarettes. It is also a luxury spa destination, home to the largest spa complex in Europe.
What are the best places to visit in Andorra?
Start in Andorra la Vella, and from there explore the parishes of Escaldes-Engordany and Encamp, located just a few miles up the road. There are two large ski resorts in Andorra you shouldn`t miss: Vallnord, located in La Massana Parish, and Grandvalira, located in Encamp Parish.
How many days should I spend in Andorra?
We recommend 4-7 days based on what you want to see and do. We offer flexible vacation packages so you can select your number of nights in each city, desired hotel and activities. We suggest a minimum of 2 nights in Andorra la Vella.
What is the best way to get around Andorra?
We recommend traveling by car. The principality, at 21 miles long and 9 miles wide, is certainly compact enough to see everything you want to see. Andorra does not have a train station nor does it have any rail service. The closest train stations are Andorre-L’Hospitalet station in L’Hospitalet-près-l’Andorre, 1.2 miles from the principality`s northeastern border in French Occitania; and Puigcerdà station in Girona Province, Catalonia, approximately 45 minutes from Andorra`s southern border by car. Two bus lines run circuit routes throughout the seven parishes of Andorra.
What is the currency of Andorra?
The currency of Andorra is the Euro, having replaced the old dual currency system of French francs and Spanish pesetas when both France and Spain switched to the Euro as well. U.S. dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for euros upon arrival. Currency exchange desks can be found at many locations throughout the country.
Do people speak English in Andorra?
English is not widely spoken in Andorra, but due to its status as a vacation destination, many resort and tourist areas do have English speakers, mainly in Andorra la Vella, El Pas de la Casa, and the ski resorts. Catalan is the most widely-spoken language in Andorra, followed by Castilian Spanish, Portuguese (due to the large number of service industry workers who moved here for work), and finally French. You can try speaking in Spanish (or Catalan if you know it), but do not be surprised or upset if someone responds to your questions or requests in English; they just want to make you feel at home and be sure you understand them. To ask someone if they speak English in Catalan, say Parla anglès?. In Spanish, it is ¿Habla inglés?.
Best time to visit Andorra
Just nine miles wide by 21 miles long, the tiny principality of Andorra, wedged in the Pyrenees Mountains between Spain and France, has a lot of beautiful geographic splendor and lots of enriching cultural opportunities within its borders.
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Make sure to read this page to find out all about the festivals and cultural events Andorra holds each year. Also listed are all of Andorra`s national holidays, so you know when to expect closings of offices, transportation, and shops.
Tipping in Andorra
The currency of Andorra is the Euro, having replaced the old dual currency system of French francs and Spanish pesetas when both France and Spain switched to the Euro as well.
Read More
U.S. dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for euros upon arrival. Currency exchange desks can be found at many locations throughout the country.