Explore Andorra. A country with
great charm!
Andorra, the country hidden in the Eastern Pyrenees between Spain and France, is a real treasure chest full of surprises. Despite its small size of 468 km2 and its (small) population of about 85,101 inhabitants (2023 census), this natural paradise has 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 are 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 tourist activities:
- Sanctuary of 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 3 7-metre-high water slides that are 53 metres long.
- Skiing: Canillo also offers direct access to the Grandvalira ski resort, making it perfect for winter sports.
- Vall d’Incles: One of the most beautiful glacial valleys in Andorra. Here you can enjoy hiking trails for all levels.
- Tibetan Bridge and Mirador del Roc del Quer: Two of the most exciting activities in the country! Enjoy exceptional views from the Mirador del Roc del Quer and stroll through the air on the 900-metre-long bridge.
Canillo Tourist Information Office:
Av. Sant Joan de Caselles, 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 tourist activities:
- National Automobile Museum: Discover a complete collection that takes you through the history of the automobile.
- Santa Eulalia Church: Visit the highest Romanesque bell tower in Andorra. With 23 metres of history and heritage, the Church of Santa Eulalia is one of the most beautiful monuments in the country.
- Cortals d’Encamp: A hiker's paradise. 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, all the while enjoying 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
Want more than 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 tourist activities:
- La 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 traditional Andorran architecture.
- Tristaina Solar Viewpoint: Unique to the Pyrenees. A sundial located at the peak of Peyreguils, at an altitude of 2,701 metres. Closeby, 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, ot@ordino.ad
La Massana: Adventures 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 are looking for adrenaline, La Massana is your parish!
Points of interest and tourist activities:
- Casa Rull Museum: Discover how a typical Andorran family lived in the early 20th century. A great example of Andorran rural heritage.
- Ski at Pal-Arinsal: One of the best ski areas in Andorra.
- Mountain biking: Whether ATB, MTB, or road bikes, La Massana is Andorra's cycling epicentre. So much so that (for 2 years now) it has hosted several trials of the UCI World BTT Championships.
- Comapedrosa Nature Park: With 15.42 km2 of protected area, the Comapedrosa Valley stands out for its imposing high mountain landscape consisting of forests, lakes and waterfalls. Its network of hiking trails and mountain shelters allows you to make any number of excursions and marvel at the native fauna and flora. The peak of the Comapedrosa at an altitude of 2,943 m is the highest in Andorra and gives its name to the Park.
La Massana Tourist Information 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 also the smallest parish but the most populated and lively, and is 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 tourist activities:
- Casa de la Vall: Historical building and one of Andorra's most iconic, 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.
- The shopping hub, Av. Meritxell: A shopping paradise, with shops offering a wide variety of electronics, fashion, cosmetics and more. Anything you are looking for, it's here!
- The 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
To the south of the country, Sant Julia de Loria is the gateway to Andorra from Spain and is known for its warm atmosphere and nature.
Points of interest and tourist 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 do with 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 towns!
Sant Julia de Loria 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 tourist activities:
- Sant Miquel d’Engolasters Church: A classic example of the Andorran Romanesque, with spectacular views overlooking the valley.
- Lake Engolasters: A perfect place for a quiet walk to disconnect from the urban rhythm.
- Caldea: One of the largest thermal spas in southern Europe! The ideal place to relax after a day of shopping to enjoy 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, we bring you a story about Andorra's curious geographical distribution. It explains the legend that the national flower of Andorra, La Grandalla, has 6 petals in honour of the Principality's 6 original parishes. Until 1978, Andorra was made up of 6 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, now leaving 7. However, the delicate flower with 6 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, whether you are looking for adventure, culture, shopping or just to enjoy nature. The next time you plan a trip, remember this small corner of the Pyrenees full of contrasts and great riches hidden in each of its seven parishes. Andorra awaits you with open arms and many surprises that you can discover throughout the year!
