Bordered by France and Spain, Andorra is its own country located in the Pyrenees. Its mountainous location makes it a mecca for skiers and snowboarders, but you don’t have to ski to come here.
For such a small country, it really does appeal to a variety of solo travellers. You can come for adventure, nature, history, shopping, wellness or winter sports, and it’s accessible year round.
I used to live in Barcelona and visited Andorra twice for a few nights but if you don’t have more than one night, you can take an Andorra day trip from Barcelona and return on the same day.
Below is my guide for a Barcelona to Andorra trip with lots of practical information such as where to stay, which tour company to use and how to get around. Find out how to reach Andorra and what to do in the country when you’re there.
Is Andorra Safe?
Types of Girl about the Globe – Adventure, Nature, Shopping, Snow & Winter Sports, Wellness GatG
Is Andorra safe to visit? Andorra is one of the safest countries and although it attracts many skiers you don’t have to ski to come here. If you love hiking, it’s safe to hike here alone, and it is well signposted. Many women come here outside of the winter months to hike in the mountains.
If you are planning to hike solo, one of the Andorra safety travel tips is to download Safe365, a safety app that allows you to send your exact location to rescue teams in case of an emergency. In June or July Andorra holds a girl’s bike weekend where more than 30 women attend for special workshops and to experience mountain biking in the country.
If you do come in the winter, you’ll meet others at the Apres ski. Saturday afternoon in El Tarter is the best Apres ski party. Just head to the bus stop on the terrace. Wednesdays and Thursdays are the best nights to go out here, but Andorra also gets busy with groups of people on the weekend.
If you need some entertainment or are just in need of some social interaction, you’ll always meet fellow travellers at one of the Irish bars.
How To Get To Andorra From Barcelona
Can you fly to Andorra? No. There is no Andorra airport, so if you are flying in, you will need to fly to either Spain or France. The nearest airports in Spain are Barcelona, Reus, Girona, Lleida, or La Seu d’Urgell. In France fly to either Toulouse, Perpignan, or Carcassonne.
From Barcelona the Andorra Direct Bus runs from the airport or the city. It takes approx 4 hours and costs €35. Click here for timetables.
If you are planning a trip in reverse from Andorra to Barcelona, there are a few bus companies such as Andorra Direct Bus or Alsa. Alsa bus departs from Estació Nacional d’Autobusos and costs €35. I travelled on a large bus (not a minibus), which didn’t offer any toilet or refreshment stops.
Andbus also connects France to Andorra. The journey from Toulouse takes 3.5 hours and costs €33 one way or €56 return. You can book your bus on Andorra By Bus.
Or you can take a guided day trip if you prefer the company and ease of a tour. From Barcelona, this tour takes you on a day trip to Andorra, stopping in the medieval Spanish town of Baga and having lunch in a traditional French village on the way. The tour is in English and you’ll get your Andorra passport stamp too! * Check rates & availability: Andorra day tour
Unmissable Things to Do in Andorra in One Day
If you do decide to do your own self-guided tour whether that’s by hiring a car on your own road trip or taking the bus, here’s a summary of the highlights of an Andorra day trip from Barcelona:
- Rejuvenate at Caldea Spa, a thermal spa that is amazing!
- Wander Andorra’s Old Town (Barri Antic)
- Visit St. Esteve of Andorra Church
- Try local dishes like Escudella, a meat stew with potatoes and pasta shells
- Explore La Casa de la Vall, a must-see monument in Andorra!
- Take photos of Paris Bridge and Dalí’s Nobility of Time statue
- Relax at Parc Central.
What To Do in Andorra on a Day Trip From Barcelona
Andorra la Vella is the capital city. At more than 1,000 metres above sea level, it is the highest capital city in Europe and is perfect for the shopping GatG with tax-free shopping. The Andorra Shopping Festival takes place in November with music and art and plenty to spend your hard earned cash on.
The Gran Valira River is the biggest in the country and runs through the capital. You can explore the old town whilst listening to the sounds of the river as you stroll. The old quarter has a charm to it and is perfect for the historical GatG, with monuments and glimpses into 19th-century Andorra.
There are examples of Romanesque art and architecture throughout Andorra and you can visit the exhibition at the Interpretation Centre of Romanesque Andorra, then visit the Church of Sant Climent de Pal afterwards. There are dozens of churches in Andorra, some dating back to the Medieval times, and this is one of the oldest which dates back to the 12th Century.
The Church of Sant Miquel d’Engolasters is a great example of a Romanesque church. Other churches include the Church of Sant Antoni de la Grella, and the Church of Santa Eulalia d’Encamp where you can visit the Holy Art Museum inside.
There’s also the Romanesque Esglesia de Sant Esteve, a 12th century church on the edge of town. Just outside of the capital is the Santa Coloma d’Andorra, that dates back as far as the 9th century.
Visit the Museu de la Minitura for everything minature, Casa d’Areny-Plandolit – a museum in a 17th Century mansion, the National Automobile Museum if you like antique cars, the Carmen Thyssen Museum of Andorra for art lovers with displays of 19 and 20th century paintings, or the Museo Casa Rull, one of the most important houses in La Massana displaying peasant life in the 19th and early 20th century.
There’s also nature in the city too. Near the main shopping area is Parc Central where you can just sit and listen to the ducks or get a good view of the city from the mountains near the old town, just a short stroll away.
Hiking in Andorra
You don’t have to be into winter sports to appreciate the nature here. There are hiking routes and you can bike ride your way through some of the country’s picturesque valleys or choose to horse ride instead. Just take a picnic and go.
If you prefer to hike at higher altitudes, it is recommended to do routes of more than 1700 metres between the end of June to September.
One of the easiest hiking routes is the Cami de Rocafort. At less than 4km the route takes you through a meadow and forest. You can find the start at Coll del Jou.
Some fantastic panoramic views can be found at the Coronallacs, The hiking route here passes high mountain terrain. Spend the night in one of the shelters then follow the hiking route along the five stages. Find hiking routes here.
If you love lakes head to Estanys de Tristaina, or Lake Engolasters, a glacier lake with scenic marked walking trails. You pass a Romanesque church and there’s a restaurant near the lake for a refreshment pit stop.
If you prefer old towns, visit Ordino, or Canillo, the religious centre of Andorra with one of the best-preserved romanesque churches in the Pyrenees.
Soldeu
Just 30 minutes from the capital is Soldeu, a village and ski resort where you can explore the marked treks in Incles Valley to see mountain lakes. If you’re really adventurous, you can climb the 3,000m peak. Here you can mountain bike at the ski resort in the summer or ski in the winter. In the winter you’ll also find nightlife in this cool village.
Caldea
Andorra is also home to Europe’s largest spa called Caldea. This thermal centre is the country’s tallest building, and the mirrored glass pyramid-shaped building is pretty impressive too. The spa is built upon a natural spring and thermal waters, and you can float in the outdoor rapids (the water is warm), swim in the pool, or just lie on a hot slab. Bliss…
You’ll find plenty of places to be pampered outside of the capital too. Wellness centres and spas are in Ordino, Canillo, Encamp, La Massana and Escaldes-Engordany. Stay in a hotel with a spa, such as Hotel Spa Termes Carlemany, or just visit one for a few hours.
Andorra Skiing
If you love skiing and winter sports then Andorra is definitely the place to come. Skiing is one of the things to do in Andorra in winter. Many of the mountain villages are connected ski resorts where you can explore the landscapes on snow shoes or cross country skiing. You can even go paragliding!
Vallnord, and Grandavlira are the largest alpine skiing areas. Vallnord covers the Arinsal-Pal, and Arcalis ski area, whereas Grandvalira covers Pas de la Casa, and Soldeu. Pas de la Casa is on the French border and has everything you need from a skiing resort: shops, restaurants and hotels.
If husky sledging is on your travel wish list, you can glide across the snow and enjoy mushing with these gorgeous dogs at Granvalira. Just don’t forget your travel insurance. If you love winter sports then this tiny country in the Pyrenees is ideal.
Andorra Tours
Cross three borders in one day on a day trip from Barcelona. Visit Spain, France, and Andorra, stopping in charming medieval villages and stunning natural landscapes. Start early in Barcelona, and soon you’ll be in the medieval Catalan village of Baga, nestled in the rocky peaks of Cadi-Moixero National Park.
Wander Baga’s central square and medieval church before crossing into France to the ancient spa town of Ax-Les-Thermes. Your guide will point out the best natural fountains for soaking your feet. Enjoy free time to relax in the healing waters, browse local artisan shops, and hunt for a special souvenir.
After an hour of exploring this quaint French village, choose a local restaurant for a traditional French lunch. Post-lunch, drive through the scenic Pyrenees Alps to Andorra’s capital, Andorra la Vella. Stop at the border for a passport stamp and snap some breathtaking mountain photos.
In Andorra la Vella, enjoy a bit of time to visit tax-free shops for bargain-priced wines and souvenirs.On the drive back, admire the Romanesque church of St. Climent and the beautiful valley views, arriving in Barcelona in time for dinner. * Check rates & availability for Andorra day trip
Or take an Andorra Bus Tour – The Andorra Bus Tour operates between 1st June to 31st October. They have 7 different itineraries covering old traditions, Romanesque art and more. You get to see some amazing scenery on your way too. Click here for their itineraries and prices.
Andorra Accommodation
If you do decide to stay overnight (and I think you should!) there a few choices for accommodation in Andorra.
Choose one of the Andorra ski hotels if you are planning on visiting the slopes, such as one of the hotels in Soldeu ski resort. Or stay at a spa hotel near Caldea if you are planning on pampering yourself. If you’re visiting for shopping you may want to stay in the capital in an apartment or a 3,4 or 5 star hotel.
Andorra doesn’t have that many hostels, but you can still find reasonably-priced accommodation, especially if you travel in the low season. There is also Airbnb which connects you to unique travel experiences and isn’t just limited to staying in a local’s spare room. Below are recommended accommodations by both myself and our solo community. * Check rates & availability for all accommodation in Andorra
Mountain Hostel Tarter – $
If you’re looking for somewhere sociable, Mountain Hostel Tarter is situated in El Tarter in a gorgeous location with two valleys. From here you can go skiing, snowboarding and even horse riding (one of the things to do in Andorra in summer). It’s a short walk to one of the best apres-ski parties in the country too.
This is one of the nicest hostels in Andorra and is where I stayed! It has a common area and plenty of board games, making it easy to meet others. The beds are comfortable with their own light and plug socket, and there are heaters for the colder months. Choose from a 4,5, or 6-bed mixed dorm or upgrade to a private room with a shared bathroom. * Check rates & availability: Mountain Hostel Tarter
Hotel Pyrenees – $$
If you prefer the privacy of a hotel, Hotel Pyrenees is a good budget choice. It’s situated in Andorra La Vella, the capital, and is ideal if you want to do some shopping. The staff are welcoming and friendly and there’s even a swimming pool on the rooftop!
The rooms have heating and air conditioning and a hairdryer, and there’s a restaurant offering meals, including an optional breakfast. You can also relax by the fireplace in the lounge room and mingle with the other guests. The cheapest rooms are next to an inner courtyard, so if you prefer an outside window, choose an economy double instead. * Check rates & availability: Hotel Pyrenees
Yolo Mola Park – $$$
For the wellness traveller, you may want to be near the famous Caldea Thermal Spa Centre where you can treat yourself to a massage or just spend hours in the thermal pools. Mola Park Atiram Hotel is a 4-star hotel nearby which offers a cafe and a bar, so you don’t need to go far to dine after the spa (although there are also restaurants nearby).
It’s also a short walk to the tax-free shops too. If you are planning to ski, the slopes are 10 km away, but you can always combine your trip here with one or two nights at the end to rest those sore muscles from the slopes. * Check rates & availability: Yomo Mola Park
Andorra Bus: How To Get Around Andorra
There are plenty of hiking routes in Andorra, but if you prefer to explore on a bike, the country is a great place to cycle your way around (just be prepared to go up and down hills).
Andorra Bus Lines takes you to the main towns and you can also reach certain valleys. Services run daily with the main bus lines running every 20 minutes to an hour, and ending at approximately 21:30. Click here for the routes and timetables.
For example, Soldeu is only a 30 minute bus ride from the capital. They also have tourist bus routes such as tourist bus route 1 or route 5.
For taxis, you either call a company or pick one up from one of the taxi ranks. There are taxi ranks at the main bus station and shopping centres. Taxis aren’t cheap and cost more during the evenings and if your baggage is large then you’ll need to pay more too.
If you prefer to drive you can rent a car from one of the rental companies in the towns. There are some tight mountainous bends so you need to feel comfortable driving here. If you pick the car up from Andorra and want to drive to another country check with your car company that you can take it out of Andorra.
If you are planning on visiting Andorra from Spain or France, you can rent a car from the main airports and train stations where you can drop the car off afterwards. The mountain pass between Canillo and Ordino is one of the most scenic drives or drive through the Incles Valley for gorgeous scenery.
If you prefer to travel here by train, there isn’t an Andorra train station so the closest train stations to Andorra are Puigcerda in Spain, and L’Hospitalet in France. * Search for flights, trains and buses in Andorra
Andorra Itinerary
You can just visit Andorra on a day trip, but it takes 3.5 hours to get there from France or Spain. It is worth staying at least one night. Three nights is a good amount of time if you are planning on hiking. For skiing, stay at least 5 nights a week.
Andorra Weather: Best Time To Go
Although Andorra is in the Pyrenees, it is also near the Mediterranean Sea, and its sunny days mean the climate is perfect for being outdoors. Andorra is at high altitude, so June and July are good times to visit and see many of the wildflowers. August is the hottest month.
If you’re visiting Andorra for winter sports, the season begins in December and ends in April. There are hiking trails in the summer months so visit between April to October when the weather is warmer and good for hiking.
Below is an annual weather chart from January to December for Andorra la Vella to help you plan the best time to visit Andorra.
Andorra Travel Insurance
Andorra is a great country for the adventure Girl about the Globe but travel insurance is always recommended to cover you for any travel delays, medical assistance and accidents. The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) isn’t valid in Andorra, so you will need travel insurance.
True Traveller and World Nomads are two insurance companies which can cover travel to Andorra. True Traveller is available to UK and European residents, and World Nomads is available to over 100 countries worldwide, including the USA and UK. For digital nomads, Safety Wing is a nomad insurance that covers people from all over the world.
All companies allow you to buy insurance when you are already on the road and offer different plans depending on your needs including additional adventure cover. * Check insurance cover and prices for True Traveller
N.b. World Nomads provides travel insurance for travellers in over 100 countries. As an affiliate, we receive a fee when you get a quote from World Nomads using this link. We do not represent World Nomads. This is information only and not a recommendation to buy travel insurance.
FAQs
- Can I drink the water? Yes, the tap water is drinkable.
- Is tipping expected? No, it’s optional, but if you felt you had good service, tip between 5-10%.
- Fixed price or barter? Fixed price.
- Any ATMs? Yes, in the main towns.
- Which side of the road do they drive? In Andorra you drive on the right-hand side.
- Good for vegetarians? Yes. Kokosnot is a vegan and gluten-free restaurant. Several other restaurants have vegetarian options on the menu. Read more here
- Any Seven Wonders of the World? No.
Map of Andorra
Planning an Andorra Trip
If you are ready to plan a trip to Andorra, here are some useful links to help you plan your trip including airlines which fly there, languages spoken and vaccinations required.
Current time in Andorra la Vella
Budget = £100 a day
Capital – Andorra la Vella
Population – 79,824
Language spoken – The official language is Catalan but they also speak Spanish, French and Portuguese.
Local Currency – Euro
Do I need a visa? Not on a UK passport for less than 3 months.
Did you know? Andorra la Vella, is the highest capital city in Europe.
Lingo – Useful Catalan phrases
Useful Info
Airlines to Andorra – There is no airport in Andorra so either fly into Toulouse in France, or Barcelona or Girona in Spain (there are others too).
The Best Time To Go – It depends on what you are travelling for but July is a great month to visit.
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