Andorra Travel Guide: All you need to know to visit Andorra in 2023

Andorra is a small European country in the Pyrenees mountains between France and Spain.

Known for its breathtaking alpine scenery, Andorra is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. With a rich history and unique culture, visitors can explore medieval villages, ancient churches, and impressive museums.

Whether planning a winter ski trip or a summer hiking adventure, our ultimate Andorra travel guide will provide you with all the travel advice, tips, and information you need to make the most of your visit.

We've covered you, from transportation and accommodation to dining and sightseeing. Get ready for an unforgettable trip to this hidden gem in the heart of Europe.

Document checklist for Andorra

To enter Andorra, visitors must have the following documents and requirements:

• A valid passport or national ID card

• A Schengen visa is required to enter Andorra. No visa is required for stays up to 90 days within 180 days for European Union, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein citizens.

• Proof of sufficient funds to cover the stay in Andorra.

• A return or onward airline ticket may be required.

• Travel insurance or global health insurance card, or European health insurance card.

It is always recommended to check the latest entry requirements and travel restrictions before planning a trip to Andorra.

Essential Andorra travel information

• Currency - Euro (€). $1 is equivalent to approx. €0.89.

• Daily budget for one person - A daily budget of around €50-€100 is recommended, depending on the type of traveler and activities planned.

• Languages - Catalan, Spanish, French, and Portuguese are widely spoken in Andorra.

Number of travelers per year - In 2019, Andorra welcomed around 8.5 million visitors.

• Socket type - Type C and Type F sockets (European standard) are used in Andorra.

• Time zone - Andorra uses Central European Time (CET), UTC+1, and Central European Summer Time (CEST), UTC+2, during daylight saving time.

• Top 3 cities to visit - Andorra la Vella (the capital), Escaldes-Engordany, and Ordino.

• Top 3 landmarks/monuments - Casa de la Vall (historic parliament building), Sant Joan de Caselles (romanesque church), and the Vallnord ski resort.

Visa information for Andorra

Andorra is not a member of the European Union or the Schengen Area, but it does agree with both regarding the free movement of people. Therefore, citizens of the European Union, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein do not need a visa to enter Andorra and can stay up to 90 days within 180 days. However, citizens of other countries need a Schengen visa to enter Andorra.

As of 2024, a new travel authorization called ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) will be introduced for citizens of visa-exempt countries, including the United States. Andorra is an EU microstate. Thus, third-country passport holders will only technically need an ETIAS to enter Andorra. However, since Andorra is landlocked between France and Spain, these travelers will need an ETIAS or Schengen Visa to enter either of those countries en route to Andorra.

Therefore, US citizens traveling to Andorra will need an ETIAS authorization starting in 2024, while citizens of the EU and associated countries will continue to enjoy visa-free travel. It is always recommended to check the latest entry requirements before planning a trip to Andorra.

ETIAS

It's important to note that the ETIAS is not a visa but a travel authorization valid for three years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.

US citizens must have a valid passport, email address, and credit or debit card to complete the online application. The ETIAS can be obtained in as little as 10 minutes. For more information on the ETIAS, please visit our ETIAS section.

Visa difficulty index for Andorra

Accessibility: 4/5

Getting a visa for Andorra can take time, as it is not a member of the European Union or the Schengen Area. However, citizens of EU countries, Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, do not need a visa to enter Andorra. Citizens of other countries need a Schengen visa to enter Andorra, which can be obtained by applying at a Schengen visa center or embassy.

Time to get your visa: 3/5

The processing time for a Schengen visa for Andorra can take up to 15 days, with some cases taking up to 60 days. However, it is essential to note that processing times can vary depending on the applicant's nationality and circumstances. Expedited services may be available for an additional fee, which can help reduce the processing time.

Costs: 3/5

The cost of a Schengen visa for Andorra is €80 (USD 87) for adults and €40 (USD 43) for children under 12. However, additional fees may apply depending on the applicant's nationality and visa type. Additionally, visa application centers may charge an extra service fee. It is important to note that visa fees are non-refundable, even if the visa is denied. iVisa can help with the application process, but additional processing fees may apply.

Typical costs and budget for Andorra

Andorra is known for its luxury ski resorts and high-end shopping, but it is possible to travel on a budget.

Daily spending per person - around $80-$120 per day

• Meals - A budget meal can cost around $12-$18, while a mid-range restaurant can cost around $30-$50 per person.

• Transport - A single bus fare costs around $2, while a taxi ride can cost around $15-$20 for a short journey.

• Hotel - Budget hotels can cost around $50-$70 per night, while mid-range hotels can cost around $100-$150 per night.

On average, a two-person one-week trip will cost around $1,120 - $1,680, including accommodation, food, and transportation. However, this can vary greatly depending on the activities and experiences travelers want to have while in Andorra.

Transport and ways to travel around Andorra

Andorra has a good transportation system with several options for traveling nationwide.

Flying to Andorra

Andorra doesn't have an international airport, so it's impossible to fly directly into the country. The closest airport is La Seu d'Urgell Airport, located in Spain, about 12 miles (20 km) from Andorra. There are no direct flights to La Seu d'Urgell Airport from major destinations.

However, you can fly into Barcelona-El Prat Airport in Spain, about 126 miles (203 km) from Andorra, and then take a bus or rent a car to reach the country. Several airlines operate flights to Barcelona-El Prat Airport, including:

• American Airlines

• Delta Air Lines

• United Airlines

• British Airways

• Air France

• Lufthansa

• Ryanair

• EasyJet

Another option is Toulouse-Blagnac Airport in France, about 96 miles (155 km) from Andorra. Several airlines operate flights to Toulouse-Blagnac Airport, including:

• Air France

• British Airways

• Lufthansa

• Ryanair

• EasyJet

You can take a bus or rent a car to reach Andorra from either of these airports.

Arrival and immigration tips for Andorra

• As Andorra is not a member of the European Union, travelers from non-EU countries should check the visa requirements before visiting. It's recommended to apply for a visa in advance.

• The main international airport serving Andorra is Barcelona El Prat Airport (BCN) in Spain, which is approximately 3 hours away by car. So plan accordingly. Taxis, buses, and car rentals are available at the airport for transportation to Andorra.

• Upon arrival, it's recommended to follow the signs for immigration and have all necessary documents ready.

• Visitors should also be prepared for potential long queues and traffic in and around the airport.

Best ways to travel around Andorra

Andorra is a small country that can be easily explored on foot, but if you want to travel a bit further or cover more ground, a few transportation options are available. The most common form of public transportation in Andorra is the bus.

Several bus companies operate in the country, including Cooperativa Interurbana Andorrana and Autocars Nadal. These buses run between the major towns and cities in Andorra and nearby destinations in France and Spain. You can pay for bus tickets in cash when you board the bus or purchase them in advance at a ticket booth or online.

Another option for getting around Andorra is by car. Renting a car is a good option if you plan to explore the country's mountainous terrain and scenic roads. There are several car rental companies in Andorra, and you can also rent a car from nearby cities in Spain or France and drive into Andorra. Just remember that some of the roads in Andorra can be narrow and winding, so it's important to move cautiously.

Safety in Andorra

Andorra is generally a safe country for travelers, with a low crime rate and a stable political situation. However, visitors should take necessary precautions to ensure their safety while traveling.

Local authorities advise travelers to keep their belongings close and avoid carrying large amounts of cash. It is also recommended to use a hotel safe to store valuables and important documents. When hiking or skiing in the mountains, staying on marked trails and being aware of changing weather conditions is essential.

Overall, visitors to Andorra can feel safe and enjoy their trip with some common-sense precautions. Be aware of Andorra’s stricter drunk driving laws and other local laws to avoid trouble during your stay.

Weather in Andorra

Andorra has a high mountain climate with hot summers and cold winters. The best time to visit is from June to September when the weather is generally mild and sunny.

In the summer, the average temperature ranges from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F) during the day. It can drop to around 10°C to 15°C (50°F to 59°F) at night. July and August are the hottest months, while June and September are cooler but still pleasant for outdoor activities.

During the winter months, from December to March, temperatures drop significantly, with average highs ranging from 6°C to 10°C (43°F to 50°F) during the day, and can fall to -5°C to -10°C (23°F to 14°F) at night. Heavy snowfall is expected in the mountains, making it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.

When packing for Andorra, it's essential to bring warm clothing and layers, especially in the winter months. In the summer, light clothing is appropriate during the day, but a sweater or jacket may be needed in the evenings. It's also recommended to bring sturdy shoes for hiking or outdoor activities.

Must do and see in Andorra

• Visit the historic Casa de la Vall: The Casa de la Vall is the historic seat of the Andorran parliament and one of the country's most important cultural and historical monuments. Built in the sixteenth century, the building is open to the public and offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the political history of Andorra. Admission is free and guided tours are available.

• Explore the Romanesque churches: Andorra is home to over 40 Romanesque churches, some of which date back to the eleventh century. These churches are known for their unique architecture and beautiful frescoes. The most famous Romanesque church in Andorra is the Church of Santa Coloma, located in Santa Coloma.

• Ski in Grandvalira: Andorra is known for its excellent skiing, and Grandvalira is the largest ski resort in the Pyrenees. With over 200 km of slopes, Grandvalira offers skiing for all levels, from beginners to experts. The resort is open from December to April, and plenty of ski schools and rental shops are in the area.

• Visit the Caldea Spa: The Caldea Spa is a thermal spa in Escaldes-Engordany. The spa offers a variety of treatments, including massages, hot tubs, and saunas. The main attraction at Caldea is the thermal water circuit, which includes several indoor and outdoor pools with water temperatures ranging from 32°C to 36°C.

• Try the local cuisine: Andorran cuisine combines French and Catalan influences, and the country is known for its hearty mountain dishes. Many restaurants in Andorra also offer excellent wine lists featuring Spanish and French wines.

Typical Andorran food to try

On that note, here are some traditional Andorran dishes to try:

• Trinxat - A hearty potato, cabbage, and bacon dish. It's typically served as a main course and is perfect for cold weather.

• Escudella - A delicious stew made with various meats and vegetables, including pork, beef, chicken, carrots, and potatoes. It's often served during Christmas and other special occasions.

• Coca - A savory pastry in various flavors, including cheese, vegetables, and meat. It's a popular snack and is perfect for eating on the go.

• Xixa - A sweet dessert made with almonds, honey, and egg yolks. It's often served during Christmas and other special occasions.

Vaccine information for Andorra

According to the CDC, there are no specific vaccine requirements for travelers to Andorra, but they recommend being up-to-date on routine vaccines. As for COVID-19, the CDC recommends getting vaccinated before traveling and following local guidelines and restrictions.

Adventure Sports in Andorra

Andorra is an excellent destination for adventure sports enthusiasts, offering various activities throughout the year. One of the most popular activities in Andorra is skiing, with its extensive ski resorts like Grandvalira and Vallnord that attract visitors from all over Europe. In addition to skiing, other winter sports, such as snowboarding, snowshoeing, and cross-country skiing, are also popular.

During the summer, Andorra becomes a hub for outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain biking, and climbing. The country has over 200 peaks, including the famous Coma Pedrosa, which stands at 2,942 meters and offers stunning views of the Pyrenees mountain range.

For those looking for even more adrenaline, Andorra offers activities such as paragliding, canyoning, and rafting. The country's rugged terrain and rivers provide the perfect setting for these exciting sports.

Whether you are an experienced adventurer or a beginner looking for a new challenge, Andorra's adventure sports scene will surely impress.