Culture, Customs and Etiquette in Andorra: A Visitor's Guide

A small country with deep traditions

Andorra is a tiny principality of about 80,000 people tucked high in the Pyrenees between France and Spain. Its official language is Catalan, though Spanish, French and Portuguese are widely spoken. A few words of Catalan go a long way: say bon dia (good morning), gracies (thank you) and adeu (goodbye), and locals warm to you instantly.

Greetings and social etiquette

• Among friends and in casual settings, people greet with two kisses on the cheek, starting with the left. Men who are not close usually shake hands.
• In shops and restaurants, a polite bon dia on entering and adeu on leaving is expected and appreciated.
• Andorrans are reserved but courteous. Avoid being loud in public; a calm, friendly tone is the norm.

Dos and don'ts

• Do dress in layers and bring sturdy shoes. Even in summer, mountain weather changes fast.
• Do respect the slow pace. Many shops close for a long lunch, roughly 1pm to 4pm.
• Don't assume everyone speaks English. Lead with Catalan, Spanish or French.
• Don't litter on the trails. Andorrans are proud of their pristine valleys and lakes such as Estany de l'Illa.
• Don't confuse Andorra with Spain or France. Its identity, co-led by the Bishop of Urgell and the President of France, is a point of pride.

Traditions worth knowing

Andorra keeps strong folk traditions. The Festa Major of each parish brings music, dancing and the contrapas and marratxa folk dances. The summer-solstice Falles fire festivals in villages like Andorra la Vella and Encamp are UNESCO-recognised. Meritxell Day (8 September), honouring the patron saint, is the national holiday.

Dining and tipping

Andorran cuisine is hearty mountain fare: trinxat (cabbage and potato), escudella stew and grilled meats. Tipping is modest and not obligatory. Service is usually included; rounding up or leaving 5 to 10 percent for good service in a restaurant is generous. For cafes and taxis, simply round up. Andorra has no VAT in the usual sense but a low 4.5 percent IGI tax, which is why it is a famous shopping destination.

Stay connected in Andorra

A HelloSIM eSIM keeps you online across Andorra's valleys for maps, translation and booking ski passes or restaurants, with no roaming bills.