Visiting Andorra : What are the best things to do and see ?

1. The Church of Sant Joan de Caselles
2. The Caldea SPA Center
3. The village of Ordino
4. The Grandvalira ski resort
5. The historical ensemble of Les Bons
6. The Sanctuary of Meritxell
7. Hiking in the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley
8. The Pas de la Casa
9. Canillo
10. Soldeu
11. Sant Climent de Pal
12. The museum (or house) of Areny-Plandolit
13. Casa de la Vall (or House of the Valleys)

Andorra is the small piece of land located between France and Spain, in the heart of the Pyrenees. This tiny country is usually crossed by tourists to buy products at lower prices compared to those in mainland France. But does visiting Andorra reduce itself to that ?

The answer is obviously no. Its culture, influenced by France and Catalonia, has left beautiful things to see, as well as its nature. So, are you ready to discover the must-visit places in Andorra ? Let’s get started !

1.The Church of Sant Joan de Caselles

Like Catalonia, Andorra is a reference for Romanesque art, particularly for its churches. Discover the most beautiful one in the principality: the Sant Joan de Caselles church, built between the 11th and 12th centuries.

Located near Canillo, it stands as the finest example of Andorran Romanesque style. Upon arrival, be sure to look up and admire its bell tower, inspired by Lombard art. Its semicircular apse and rectangular nave are also magnificent.

Next, enter the church to discover its interior, where a special atmosphere prevails. This may be due to the fact that a representation of Christ stands before a fresco depicting the crucifixion. The rest is more classical, with a real Renaissance touch.

Finally, if you have time, you can visit other churches, such as the Sant Miquel d’Engolasters church.

2.The Caldea SPA Center

Enjoy the pure water of the Pyrenees and the idyllic setting to relax. For this, nothing beats a good SPA. Fortunately, the Caldea SPA Center is the perfect place to fulfill your desire.

You will have the choice between two atmospheres :

• • For a good time with family;
  • For a romantic getaway

3.The village of Ordino

Among the places to visit in Andorra, we find the splendid village of Ordino. Part of the parish of Andorra, it is located in the northwest of the valley, at an altitude of about 1300 meters. Take a stroll through the streets of the town, have lunch near the town hall, and enjoy a magnificent setting, where stone is man’s best friend.

4.The Grandvalira ski resort

Even though it’s a ski resort, Grandvalira is also worth discovering all year round, thanks to the many free sports activities such as archery, canoeing, trampoline, etc. By taking the cable car, you’ll be able to enjoy a view of the valley. Magnificent.

For powder lovers, you can enjoy 193 kilometers of slopes, where all levels are catered for. Perfect for groups of friends and families.

5.The historical ensemble of Les Bons

The Principality of Andorra is full of small corners where you’ll feel like you’re out of time. However, the historical ensemble of Les Bons, and especially the church of Sant Romà, is a unique place: this 12th-century church (Romanesque, as you guessed) offers a rectangular nave and a semi-circular Lombard-style apse.

The interior of the church has preserved the stone altar table as well as Romanesque pictorial reproductions by masters from Santa Coloma. Don’t hesitate, when you leave the church, to take a walk in the Les Bons neighborhood, which has had a plan for the protection of its architecture since 1997

6.The Sanctuary of Meritxell

The sanctuary of Meritxell is named after the patron saint of Andorra, to whom the place is dedicated. From the entrance, the architecture dazzles us, as it combines a very Catholic, monastic side with a striking avant-garde style.

Inside, the main hall is very bright, which is uncommon for a place of worship. But here too, the avant-garde side breaks the codes, with glass replacing stone. The result is a successful blend of tradition and contemporary. So don’t miss this unique place if you come to visit Andorra

7.Hiking in the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley 

Inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage List, the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley is a true Andorran gem. Therefore, hiking in the heart of this exceptional nature, where the ecosystem is a strength, can only inspire.

The trail starting from Escaldes-Engordany is the most popular. Indeed, it allows visitors to enjoy vast spaces that lead to Fontverd, where a panorama composed of alpine pastures and glaciers awaits them.

Finally, wandering in the valley offers a leap back in time, discovering the techniques used by ancient Pyrenean populations to exploit local resources

8.The Pas de la Casa

Impossible to visit Andorra without passing through Pas de la Casa. Originally, only a small dwelling stood on these lands. Hence its name, which means « Passage of the House. » Today, Pas de la Casa has changed significantly. It is now a recognized winter sports resort, with 200 kilometers of slopes.

But if Pas de la Casa is a must-visit in Andorra, it is also for its low prices. Indeed, many tourists come here to stock up on alcohol, petrol, and cigarettes, for a bill much lower than what they would find in mainland France.

9.Canillo

Andorra is not necessarily synonymous with skiing or shopping. To discover a peaceful little village, away from the tourist crowds, Canillo is the place to be.

Very pleasant for walks in summer, it is a place to recharge, but also to visit the church of San Serni, the hermitage of Sainte-Croix where you will find an altar dedicated to Christ.

It is also an opportunity to discover the Harnero mill, which, although no longer functional, remains extremely well-preserved.

10.Soldeu

For those who love tranquility and nature walks, the town of Soldeu is perfect for you. Surrounded by stunning Pyrenean landscapes, you are sure to enjoy an ideal quality of life with very pleasant temperatures in the summer.

In winter, take advantage of its slopes, which appeal to both beginners and experienced skiers.

11.Sant Climent de Pal

With its Romanesque church and picturesque surroundings, the Sant Climent de Pal church is one of the most beautiful sights to visit when you come to Andorra.

The place of worship is a true tourist gem. Its slender tower, Lombard influence, and the combination of stone, wood, and metal place the church in the tradition of Andorran Romanesque churches. As for the village itself, it is perfect for strolling and enjoying the tranquility. A true postcard setting.