7 Great Reasons To Visit Andorra – Europe’s Hidden Gem

First of all, let’s point to Andorra on the world map. Check the region between Spain and France where the countries share a border along the Pyrenees Mountains. Here, a small speck of land comprises the Principality of Andorra that has been overlooked by tourists who have thronged to France and Spain over the years. Andorra is no pushover though. The small country packs a punch despite its miniature size. Here are some great reasons to visit Andorra.

For its budget options

Andorra has a lot of unique things going for it. Nestled in the Pyrenees, the principality is independent but is neither a part of the Eurozone nor is Euro its official currency. However, you’ll be hard-pressed to use any other currency except Euro inside Andorra. The upside of this is that the region is not difficult to navigate on a budget. For example, my three-star hotel room cost me 41 euros per night, a bargain when compared to other places in the region and a super deal compared to the other principality of Monaco.

For the best mountain views outside Alps

Going back to the budget option, Andorra boasts of a stunning skyline almost anywhere you look. Thanks to its three natural parks, the largest of which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the region is filled with beautiful scenery outside its main city centre. During winter, most of the principality turns into a ski resort, making Andorra one of the top winter sports destinations in Europe for those who know about the region.

Also Read: 10 Of My Favourite Under-The-Radar South France Stops

For its famed spa and fitness centres

My 41-euro hotel had an outdoor pool and a tennis court on its rooftop. A tennis court! In Andorra, fitness is taken seriously – as is wellness. In fact, the capital Andorra de la Vella has an entire complex called Caldea which is Europe’s largest spa complex with pools of different temperatures, massage rooms etc. The many hiking trails along the entire country draws walking tourists from all over Europe while cyclists and mountain climbers also arrive in Andorra in large numbers.

For its museums and history galore

For such a small country, Andorra has a lot to share with the world. From its early days of community living to its later days as a major exporter of cigars and tobacco, the country’s history is best captured in its many museums. I recommend Casa Cristo — the country’s Ethnographic Museum. The building comprises of a traditional home preserved in the old architectural design before modern buildings began dotting the skyline in Andorra. There is also a Tobacco Museum at an old tobacco factory that details the relationship between Andorra and tobacco and is a must-see.

Also Read: How To Travel Right, According To Anthony Bourdain

For its official language – Catalan

I admit I didn’t know much about Catalonia, ETA and the Pyrenees before reaching Andorra. But when you start watching Castle in a language that’s neither French nor Spanish, you begin to wonder what’s happening. Thankfully, the staff at my hotel was more than patient to answer all my queries that I followed by reading up on Catalan. For the rest of my journey, I knew Catalan when I saw it in Andorra and it helped me understand Catalonia’s secession from Spain in 2017 that much quicker.

For its duty-free Shopping

Yes, one of the main reasons for visiting Andorra is to indulge in some retail therapy. All of Andorra is pretty much like an airport terminal when it comes to duty-free shopping. A lot of Spanish locals come to Andorra to buy from brands that are otherwise too pricey in their own neighbourhood. In fact, the main street of Andorra de la Vella that comes with the costliest rentals is dotted with designer boutiques and jewellery stores for tourists whose sole purpose of visiting Andorra is to shop.

Also Read: 7 Free Things You Can Do Anywhere In The World

For its unique history and geography

Andorra is the 17^th smallest country in the world with an area of 469 square kilometres. Although small in size, its topography comprising mountains and elevations means that covering the entire place will take more than a day to cover. Because of its small size and sheer height, there is no airport or even a railway station anywhere. Barcelona is about three hours away from Andorra de la Vella while it took me five hours to get to and from Toulouse from Andorra.

All images by Constant Traveller. Follow me on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay updated with the latest news. Subscribe to my email list on the right to stay in touch.