The Best Places to Visit in Andorra
Andorra is one of Europe’s beautiful micro-nations, home to breathtaking nature spots, beautiful villages and the Pyrenees Mountains. Sandwiched between France and Spain, the citizens in the country speak the official language of Catalan (However French and Spanish are heard sometimes). Only about 77,000 people live in the country of Andorra, and it’s roughly half the size of New York City. It’s great for skiing and snowboarding in the winter, and picturesque hikes in the summer. Not many make it to Andorra during their Europe travels, but if you do I really doubt that you’ll be disappointed.
Capital: Andorra La Vella
Currency: Euro
Language: Catalan (& Spanish)
When to visit: Year round
1) andorra la vella
Andorra la Vella is the largest town, and capital of Andorra (Around 22,000 people live here). It’s located in the central valley of the Valira River, and the surrounding mountains make it a picturesque destination. It’s most peoples start and end point for their Andorra travels, and many citizens of Spain and France actually come here for shopping, as the country is tax-free.
Things to do:
Walk through and explore the Old Town (named Barri Antic), it has lovely cobblestone streets and you’ll see Sant Esteve Church, a roman style church. There is a big shopping street named Carrer de Meritxell with many stores. You can see the city in about half a day, it’s very compact.
How to get there:
There are bus options from close big cities, such as Barcelona, Girona & Toulouse, which are common routes.
2) tristaina lakes trail
The Tristaina Lakes Trail is Andorra’s most famous trail, featuring a mountain hiking path taking you to stunning sights of three different lakes; Primer Estany, Segon Estany, and Tercer Estany. You get exceptional views of the Pyrenees and it’s rocky peaks blended with the exuberant meadows.
Where is it:
The hike is in the north of Andorra, with the starting point of the trail at Tristaina Car Park, near the tiny town of Arinsal.
How to get there:
Take a bus from Andorra la Vella to Arinsal, then walk 2km to the trailhead.
3) grandvalira
Grandvalira is the largest ski resort in all of the Pyrenees. It’s got skiing and snowboarding options for all skill levels. The cable car has nice views of the Pyrenees.
Where is it:
It’s in the east of the country, about 40km from the capital. Since the country is so small, it’s close to everything.
How to get there:
There are bus options through Andorra’s main companies connecting Andorra la Vella to the resort.