Andorra Travel Guide: Essential Tips

Explore Andorra: From the Snowy Slopes of Grandvalira to the Duty-Free Shops of Andorra la Vella

National Flag of Andorra

Top 15 Most Searched Questions About Andorra

The capital of Andorra is Andorra la Vella, a charming city known for its historic center, duty-free shopping, and proximity to ski resorts.

Andorra has no airports or train stations, so you must enter via France or Spain. EU citizens don’t need a visa; others should check Schengen visa requirements for entry into France or Spain. See more in our Documents tab.

Andorra uses the Euro (€), despite not being an EU member. Coins and notes are the same as in other Eurozone countries. Learn more in our Currency tab.

Andorra is very safe, with one of the lowest crime rates in Europe. However, take care on icy roads in winter and be mindful of your belongings in crowded shopping areas. See our Safety tab for more advice.

The official language is Catalan, but Spanish and French are widely spoken due to Andorra’s location. English is common in tourist areas like Andorra la Vella and ski resorts.

Andorra is famous for its ski resorts like Grandvalira and Vallnord, duty-free shopping, and stunning Pyrenees scenery. It’s also known for its Romanesque churches and affordable winter getaways. Explore more in our Top Attractions tab.

Winter (December-February) is ideal for skiing, with temperatures around -2 to 5°C. Summer (June-August) is great for hiking, with mild weather (15-25°C) in the mountains.

Andorra is affordable compared to other European ski destinations. Budget travelers can manage on $50-80 per day, though ski passes and luxury hotels in peak season can increase costs.

Yes, tap water in Andorra is safe to drink, sourced from the Pyrenees. However, some prefer bottled water due to the mineral taste in certain areas.

Top spots include Grandvalira Ski Resort, the historic Casa de la Vall, and the Caldea Spa. Nature lovers should explore the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley. See our Top Attractions tab for more.

Andorra has a mountainous climate with cold winters (-2 to 5°C) and mild summers (15-25°C). Snowfall is heavy in winter, perfect for skiing, while summers are sunny and great for outdoor activities.

Yes, Andorra hosts the Andorra la Vella Festival in August, featuring music and cultural events, and the Sant Jordi Day in April, celebrating literature with book fairs.

Popular souvenirs include duty-free items like perfumes, electronics, and alcohol, as well as local crafts and Andorran honey from markets in Andorra la Vella.

Buses connect major towns like Andorra la Vella and Escaldes-Engordany. Taxis are affordable—use official ones. Renting a car is recommended for exploring mountainous areas like Vallnord.

Try escudella (a hearty stew), trinxat (a potato and cabbage dish), and cargols a la llauna (grilled snails). Pair them with local wines. More details in our Local Cuisine tab.

About Andorra

Nestled between France and Spain in the heart of the Pyrenees, Andorra is a tiny principality that packs a big punch for travelers. Covering just 468 square kilometers, it’s one of Europe’s smallest countries, yet it offers a stunning mix of snowy peaks, medieval villages, and modern amenities. Andorra la Vella, the capital, sits at 1,023 meters above sea level—making it the highest capital in Europe—and is a hub for duty-free shopping along Avinguda Meritxell, as well as historic sites like the 12th-century Sant Esteve Church. The country is a winter sports paradise, boasting world-class ski resorts like Grandvalira, the largest in the Pyrenees, and Vallnord, which together offer over 300 kilometers of slopes. In summer, the mountains transform into a hiker’s haven, with trails like the UNESCO-listed Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley showcasing glacial landscapes and traditional stone huts. Andorra’s population is around 79,000 (2023 estimate), and its unique co-principality status—governed by the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell—adds a layer of historical charm. The principality is affordable for a European destination, with daily costs ranging from $50-80 for budget travelers, thanks to low taxes and duty-free goods. Andorrans are welcoming, often greeting visitors with a warm smile and a taste of hearty mountain cuisine like escudella at local bordas (traditional restaurants). Whether you’re skiing in Soldeu, soaking in the thermal waters of Caldea, or exploring Romanesque churches, Andorra promises a memorable escape.

Visa & Passport for Andorra: Entry Requirements for Travelers

  • Passport Requirements: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months beyond your stay and have at least one blank page.
  • Visa Requirements: Andorra isn’t in the EU, but you’ll need to enter via France or Spain. EU citizens don’t need a visa; others should check Schengen visa requirements for France or Spain on the Spanish Ministry of Foreign Affairs or French Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
  • Health Entry Rules: No specific vaccinations are required. Check health advisories with the Andorran Ministry of Health.

Driving in Andorra: Road Rules & Tips for Tourists

  • Driver’s License: EU licenses are valid. Non-EU visitors need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their license for stays over 90 days.
  • Road Rules: Drive on the right. Seat belts are mandatory. Speed limits are 40 km/h in urban areas like Andorra la Vella, 70 km/h on rural roads, and 90 km/h on main roads. The blood alcohol limit is 0.05%.
  • Road Conditions: Roads are well-maintained but can be narrow and winding in the mountains. Winter driving (December-March) requires snow tires or chains—ice is common on routes to ski resorts like Grandvalira.
  • Parking: Parking in Andorra la Vella is regulated—use metered spots or paid lots near the city center. Free parking is available in smaller towns like Canillo.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 112 for emergencies (police, ambulance, fire). Roadside assistance is limited—carry a spare tire and emergency kit.
  • Useful Resource: For more on driving regulations, visit Visit Andorra.

Currency in Andorra: Using the Euro for Your Trip

  • Euro: Andorra uses the Euro (€). Coins are in 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, and 50 cents, and 1 and 2 euros; notes are in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, and 500 euros.
  • Currency Exchange: Euros are widely accepted, but you can exchange currency at banks in Andorra la Vella, like Crèdit Andorrà, for competitive rates. Avoid unofficial exchanges.
  • Payment Methods: Cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted almost everywhere, including ski resorts and shops. Carry some cash for small purchases in rural areas like Ordino.
  • ATMs: ATMs are plentiful in Andorra la Vella and Escaldes-Engordany. Look for banks like MoraBanc for reliable service with minimal fees.

Legal Guide to Andorra: Laws Travelers Should Know

  • Local Laws: Drug possession is illegal and can lead to jail time. Public drunkenness may result in fines—drink responsibly.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Andorrans are polite—greet with a handshake and “Bon dia” (Catalan). Respect religious sites like Sant Esteve Church by dressing modestly. More in the Culture & Etiquette tab.
  • Photography Restrictions: Photography is generally allowed, but avoid taking photos near government buildings without permission.
  • Public Behavior: Public displays of affection are discreet. Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces—use designated areas.
  • Customs Rules: Duty-free allowances include 1.5 liters of liquor and 300 cigarettes. Declare cash over 10,000 EUR (or equivalent) when entering or leaving via France or Spain.
  • Emergency Contact: Dial 112 for emergencies. For non-urgent issues, contact the Andorran police at +376 872 000.

Travel Safety in Andorra: Staying Safe on Your Trip

  • Crime in Andorra: Andorra has a very low crime rate. Petty theft is rare but possible in busy shopping areas like Avinguda Meritxell—keep your belongings secure.
  • Road Safety: Mountain roads can be icy in winter—drive cautiously, especially on routes to Vallnord. Use snow tires or chains from December to March.
  • Health Risks: No major health risks. Tap water is safe, but high altitudes may cause mild altitude sickness—stay hydrated. Sunburn is a risk while skiing—use sunscreen.
  • Natural Hazards: Andorra’s climate brings heavy snow in winter (-2 to 5°C) and mild summers (15-25°C). Avalanches are a risk in ski areas—follow resort safety guidelines.
  • Medical Facilities: Andorra la Vella has good medical care at Hospital Nostra Senyora de Meritxell. Pharmacies are well-stocked—look for “Farmàcia” signs.
  • Emergency Contacts: Dial 112 for emergencies. Ski resorts like Grandvalira have on-site medical teams for injuries.
  • Public Transport Safety: Buses are safe but can be crowded during ski season. Taxis in Andorra la Vella are reliable—use official ones with visible signage.

Culture & Etiquette in Andorra: What to Know

  • Greetings: Andorrans are friendly—greet with a handshake and “Bon dia” (Good morning in Catalan). Close friends may exchange a kiss on both cheeks.
  • Dining Customs: If invited to an Andorran home, expect hearty mountain dishes—bring a small gift like chocolates. Tasting everything is polite, as refusing food can be seen as rude.
  • Religious Sites: Dress modestly when visiting churches like Sant Esteve or Santa Coloma Church—cover shoulders and knees.
  • Festivals: The Andorra la Vella Festival in August features music and dance. Sant Jordi Day in April celebrates books and roses, a Catalan tradition.
  • Language Tips: Catalan is the official language, but Spanish and French are widely spoken. English is common in tourist areas—learning “Gràcies” (Thank you) is appreciated.
  • Tipping: Tipping isn’t mandatory but appreciated—around 5-10% in restaurants in Andorra la Vella. In rural bordas, it’s less common.

Local Cuisine in Andorra: Must-Try Dishes & Drinks

  • Escudella: A hearty stew with meat, vegetables, and pasta, often served during winter festivals.
  • Trinxat: A savory dish of mashed potatoes, cabbage, and pork, a Pyrenean classic.
  • Cargols a la Llauna: Grilled snails seasoned with herbs, a traditional delicacy.
  • Local Wines: Pair your meal with Andorran wines like those from Casa Beal, known for their crisp flavors.
  • Cheese: Try local cheeses like Formatge de les Valls, often served with honey.
  • Where to Eat: In Andorra la Vella, Borda Estevet offers authentic mountain dishes in a rustic setting. For a cozy meal near the slopes, visit Restaurant La Coma in Soldeu—both are highlighted in our Top Attractions tab.

Top Attractions in Andorra: Must-Visit Places

  • Grandvalira Ski Resort: The largest ski area in the Pyrenees with 210 km of slopes, perfect for all levels. Book your ski pass on Tiqets.
  • Vallnord Ski Resort: Known for family-friendly slopes and snowboard parks in Pal-Arinsal. Get your Vallnord tickets on Tiqets.
  • Casa de la Vall: Andorra’s historic parliament building in Andorra la Vella, dating back to 1580. Book a guided tour on Tiqets.
  • Caldea Spa: Europe’s largest thermal spa in Escaldes-Engordany, offering relaxation with mountain views. Reserve your spa entry on Tiqets.
  • Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley: A UNESCO World Heritage site with glacial landscapes and hiking trails. Guided tours are available—book on Tiqets.
  • Sant Esteve Church: A 12th-century Romanesque church in Andorra la Vella, known for its frescoes. Entry is free, but guided tours can be booked on Tiqets.
  • Dining Spots: For authentic Andorran cuisine, visit Borda Estevet in Andorra la Vella, a rustic borda serving escudella and trinxat. Near the slopes, Restaurant La Coma in Soldeu offers hearty meals with views of Grandvalira—reservations recommended during ski season.

Flights to Andorra: Travel Options

Andorra has no airport. The closest airports are in Spain (Barcelona-El Prat, 200 km away) and France (Toulouse-Blagnac, 180 km away). From there, rent a car or take a shuttle bus to Andorra la Vella—services like Andorra Direct Bus operate regularly.

Create Your Packing List for Andorra

Travel Tips for Andorra

  • Connectivity: Mobile data is pricey—SIM cards from Andorra Telecom cost around 15 EUR for 5 GB. Wi-Fi is common in hotels and cafés in Andorra la Vella.
  • Ski Season: Book ski passes and accommodations in Grandvalira or Vallnord early for December-March, as they fill up fast during peak season.
  • Language Tip: Learn basic Catalan phrases like “Bon dia” (Good morning) and “Gràcies” (Thank you). Spanish and French are also widely understood.
  • Weather Prep: Winters (December-March) can drop to -2°C—pack warm layers and ski gear. Summers reach 25°C—bring hiking shoes and light clothing.
  • Shopping Deals: Duty-free shopping in Andorra la Vella is a highlight—haggle politely for better prices on electronics and luxury goods along Avinguda Meritxell.