Exploring Andorra


A country with plenty of charm!

Andorra, the country hidden in the Eastern Pyrenees between Spain and France, is a real treasure trove of surprises. Despite its compact size (468 km2) and its small population of about 85,101 inhabitants (2023 census), this natural paradise is a destination with a lot to offer, from stunning landscapes to outdoor activities, culture, history and tax-free shopping.

Nestled in the Pyrenees, the Andorran landscape is mountainous, with peaks over 2,000 metres high, deep valleys and winding rivers.

But what really defines Andorra is its seven parishes, each with its own character and charm. Explore Andorra’s geography, passing through each parish’s top locations.

Get ready for a journey full of discoveries!


Canillo: mountains and more mountains

Canillo is the largest parish in Andorra in terms of territory, but also one of the least densely populated. If you are passionate about nature, take note: Canillo is absolutely the place to go.

Points of interest and activities:

- Santuari de Meritxell: an important pilgrimage site in Andorra, dedicated to the country’s patron saint. It is a must-see in Canillo, where tradition and modernity combine.

- Palau de Gel: a sports complex where the ice rink takes centre stage all year round and where you can go down three 7-metre-high slides that are 53 metres long.

- Skiing: Canillo also offers direct access to the Grandvalira ski resort, making it perfect for winter sports.

- Incles Valley: one of the most beautiful glacial valleys in Andorra. Here you can enjoy hiking trails for all levels.

- Tibetan Bridge and Roc del Quer Viewpoint: two of the most attractive activities in the country! Enjoy exceptional views from the Roc del Quer Viewpoint and stroll through the air on the 900-metre-long bridge.

Canillo Tourist Information Office:
Av. Sant Joan de Caselles, Canillo, (+376) 753 600, vdc@canillo.ad

 


Encamp: a window to nature

Encamp is also an ideal spot for nature lovers and fans of outdoor sports. It is well-connected to the Grandvalira ski slopes, one of the largest skiable areas in Europe. It also offers a wide range of outdoor activities for the whole family during the summer months.

Points of interest and activities:

- National Automobile Museum: you will discover a complete collection that takes you on a journey through the history of the automobile.

- Church of Santa Eulàlia: visit the tallest Romanesque bell tower in Andorra. With 23 metres of history and heritage, the Church of Santa Eulàlia is one of the most beautiful monuments in the country.

- Cortals d’Encamp: a paradise for walkers. Cortals d’Encamp is a unique location, with its stone huts, wide valley and great variety of hiking trails.

- Skiing: from Encamp you have direct access to the Grandvalira ski resort via Funicamp, a cable car that takes you to the slopes in a matter of minutes, while you enjoy stunning views of the surrounding mountains.

Encamp Tourist Information Office:
Plaça del Consell, 1, Encamp, (+376) 731 000, turisme@encamp.ad

 

 

Ordino: history and culture

Do you prefer a stroll through charming streets and visits to museums with great history? Ordino is the place for you! Without a doubt the most picturesque parish in Andorra, it stands out for its dedication to the preservation of historical and natural heritage.

Points of interest and activities:

- Casa d’Areny-Plandolit: the perfectly restored house-museum where you can discover how a 17th-century noble Andorran family lived and their history.

- The main streets: Ordino is perfect for a stroll as you take in its traditional Andorran architecture.

- Tristaina Solar Viewpoint: a unique construction in the Pyrenees. It is a sundial located at the peak of Peyreguils, at an altitude of 2,701 metres. Close by, you will find the lakes of Tristaina, an easy hiking route to do as a family.

- Sorteny Nature Park: declared a biosphere reserve by UNESCO, the Sorteny Valley is the largest protected natural area in Andorra. Here you can enjoy the flora and fauna of Andorra in all its glory, with more than 800 specimens of plants and trees.

 Ordino Tourist Information Office:
C/ Major 20, Casa de la Muntanya, Ordino, (+376) 878 173,not@ordino.ad

 


La Massana: adventure all year round

La Massana is known for its outdoor activities available throughout the year. In winter, the ski slopes of Pal-Arinsal are the biggest hit, while in summer, mountain biking in the Bike Park and hiking take the lead. If you’re looking for adrenaline, La Massana is your parish!

Points of interest and activities:

- Casa Rull Museum: discover how a typical Andorran family lived in the early 20th century. This is a great example of Andorran rural heritage.

- Skiing in Pal Arinsal: one of the best ski areas for families in Andorra.

- Cycling in the mountains: whether it’s mountain, downhill or road bikes, La Massana is Andorra’s cycling epicentre. So much so that, for two years now, it has hosted several trials of the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships.

- Comapedrosa Nature Park: with 15.42 km2 of protected land, the Comapedrosa Valley stands out for its imposing mountain landscape consisting of forests, lakes and waterfalls. Its network of hiking trails and mountain shelters allow you to make any number of excursions and marvel at the native fauna and flora. The peak of Comapedrosa, at an altitude of 2,943 m, is the highest in Andorra and gives its name to the Park.

La Massana Tourist Office:
Plaça de les Fontetes, La Massana, (+376) 835 693, turisme@comumassana.ad

 


Andorra la Vella: the heart of the Principality

Andorra la Vella, the country’s capital, is the smallest parish but the most populated and lively, where most of the commercial activity is concentrated. The city is famous for its shops, but there is much more to discover.

Points of interest and activities:

- La Casa de la Vall: a historical building and one of the most iconic in Andorra, built at the end of the 16th century. It was the seat of Parliament from 1702 to 2011. It is a testimony to the country’s political and cultural legacy.

- Av. Meritxell shopping area: a shopping paradise, with shops offering a wide variety of electronics, fashion, cosmetics and much more. You can find everything here!

- Old Quarter: walk through the Old Quarter and discover the true essence of Andorra la Vella.

- Cuisine: enjoy Andorran and international cuisine with the wide variety of restaurants spread around Andorra la Vella and Santa Coloma.

Andorra la Vella Tourist Information Office:
Plaça de la Rotonda, Andorra la Vella, (+376) 750 100, info@oficinaturisme.ad

 


Sant Julià de Lòria: nature and tradition

In the south of the country, Sant Julià de Lòria is the gateway to Andorra from Spain and is known for its warm atmosphere and nature.

Points of interest and activities:

- Naturland: an 800-hectare adventure park where you can enjoy adrenaline-fuelled activities and experiences for the whole family, surrounded by mountains and forests. Dare to go on the Tobotronc, the longest alpine toboggan run in the world, an experience you will not forget!

- Juberri Gardens: a space to let your imagination run wild.

- Auvinyà: one of Andorra’s most charming villages.

Sant Julià de Lòria Tourist Information Office:
Plaça Laurèdia, Sant Julià de Lòria, (+376) 744 045, turisme@comusantjulia.ad

 


Escaldes-Engordany: art, thermal waters and avant-garde

 

Escaldes-Engordany is the parish with thermal waters, which have been used for centuries for all kinds of activities by its inhabitants and now serve as a source of leisure and health tourism.

Points of interest and activities:

- Church of Sant Miquel d’Engolasters: A classic example of Andorran Romanesque architecture, with a spectacular view over the valley.

- Engolasters Lake: a perfect place for a quiet walk to disconnect from the urban hubbub.

- Caldea: one of the largest thermal complexes in southern Europe and the ideal place for relaxing after a day of shopping, as well as enjoying a wide range of spaces.

Escaldes-Engordany Tourist Information Office:
Plaça Santa Anna, 1, Escaldes-Engordany, (+376) 890 881, oficinaturisme@e-e.ad

Did you know?

Finally, a story about Andorra’s unusual geographical distribution. Legend has it that the national flower of Andorra, the poet’s daffodil, has six petals in honour of the Principality’s six original parishes.
 

Until 1978, Andorra was made up of six parishes: Canillo, Encamp, Ordino, La Massana, Andorra la Vella and Sant Julià de Lòria. That year, the parish of Escaldes-Engordany was created, which until then was part of Andorra la Vella. This meant there would be seven parishes for good. However, the delicate flower with six white petals remains the national flower of Andorra.

 

From the vibrant Andorra la Vella to the quiet Ordino, each corner of the Principality offers a unique experience. The next time you plan a trip, remember this small corner of the Pyrenees full of contrasts and hidden riches. 

Andorra awaits you with open arms and many surprises that you can discover throughout the year!