Why visit Andorra
Tucked between France and Spain high in the Pyrenees, Andorra packs ski resorts, hiking trails, medieval churches and tax-free shopping into just 468 square kilometres. Here are the top things to do and see.
1. Ski or hike Grandvalira
Grandvalira is one of the largest ski areas in the Pyrenees, with over 200 km of pistes linking Pas de la Casa, Grau Roig, Soldeu and El Tarter. In summer the same slopes become trails for hiking and downhill mountain biking.
2. Relax at Caldea
Caldea in Escaldes-Engordany is the largest thermal spa in southern Europe. Bathe in warm lagoons fed by natural hot springs under a striking glass spire designed by architect Jean-Michel Ruols.
3. Walk old town Andorra la Vella
The capital's historic core, Barri Antic, centres on the Casa de la Vall, a 16th-century stone manor that served as the seat of parliament. Stroll Meritxell Avenue for tax-free shopping.
4. See the Romanesque churches
Don't miss Santa Coloma, with its round Lombard bell tower, and Sant Joan de Caselles near Canillo, two of the country's finest Romanesque churches.
5. Explore Vall del Madriu-Perafita-Claror
This glacial valley is Andorra's only UNESCO World Heritage Site, a roadless landscape of stone shepherd huts, pastures and lakes best reached on foot.
6. Visit the Sanctuary of Meritxell
The modern Basilica of Our Lady of Meritxell, rebuilt by Catalan architect Ricard Bofill after a 1972 fire, honours Andorra's patron saint.
7. Hike to Estany de l'Illa
The high mountain lakes around Estany de l'Illa and the Madriu valley reward walkers with mirror-still water and granite peaks.
8. Cross to the Tristaina lakes
Near Ordino-Arcalís, the three Tristaina lakes sit in a dramatic cirque, a classic and accessible day hike.
9. Discover Ordino and the Areny-Plandolit house
The pretty village of Ordino holds the Casa d'Areny-Plandolit, a furnished 17th-century noble house, and a postal museum.
10. Drive the Port d'Envalira
At 2,408 m, Port d'Envalira is one of the highest paved mountain passes in the Pyrenees, with sweeping views.
Stay connected in Andorra
A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online for maps, translation and bookings as you move between valleys and resorts, with no roaming charges. [[buy:and|Andorra]]