Andorra is a small country located between France and Spain. The official language of Andorra is Catalan as well as much of the culture. There are many entertaining festivals that are unique to Andorra, many of which are based on Catholicism, as well as authentic cuisine, art, traditions and dances. Here are a few of the top sites you should see when you visit Andorra!
Andorra la Vella
Andorra la Vella is the capital of Andorra where you’ll find many cute shops, cafes and restaurants that are perfect to grab a bite to eat and take a break from sight-seeing. In addition, there are many other cultural and historic sites to see in Andorra la Vella such as la Casa de la Vella, which is the seat of the government, Sant Esteve Church and Plaça del Poble, a square on a rooftop!
Vallnord
Andorra is well known for skiing and snowboarding and Vallnord is considerably the most popular ski and snowboard resort in the country. Vallnord is located in the Pyrenees mountains and includes 305,118 feet of marked runs. Andorra has also been used for many mountain biking and road cycling events such as the 2008, 2009, 2013 and 2017 UCI Mountain Bike World Cup and a few stages of the Tour de France. All in all, Vallnord is definitely worth a visit - especially for the skiers out there!
Centre Termolúdic Caldea
Centre Termolúdic Caldea is not only Andorra’s tallest building, but Europe’s largest spa! Within the unique architectural exterior, there are indoor and outdoor lagoons, saunas, whirlpool tubs, therapeutic waters, baths and many different relaxing massage treatments. Whether you need a break from your travels or you just want to treat yourself, the Centre Termolúdic Caldea is definitely the place to go!
Sant Joan de Caselles Church & Church of Sant Martí de la Cortinada
Andorra has many historic buildings including these two beautiful churches that are very popular among tourists. The Sant Joan de Caselles Church is from the 11th century in the village of Canillo and is one of the many buildings in the country that exemplify Romanesque architecture. The historic Church of Sant Martí de la Cortinada dates back to the 12th century and contains many old murals, wooden-altars and side chapels that are worth a visit!
(Photo: Church of Sant Martí de la Cortinada)
The Town of Les Escaldes
The Town of Les Escaldes is most known for its hot springs that were used by Romans for medical purposes but now make for some of the most relaxing spas! Les Escaldes also has many opportunities for skiing and snowboarding but if you make it there, we recommend visiting many of the cultural sites like the impressive artwork in the Viladomat Museum, Thyssen Museum and Centre d'Art d'Escaldes-Engordany.
Casa d'Areny-Plandolit
Casa d'Areny-Plandolit is a historic mansion located in the town of Ordino, Andorra! Inside, you can see the luxurious rooms, furniture and gardens that demonstrate the wealth of the family residing there around the 19th century. The site also includes the Andorra National Auditorium which is definitely worth a look! Afterwards, visit Ordino’s churches, shops and museums as the city of Ordino is worth a visit as well!
These are just a few attractions that Andorra has to offer but if you find yourself with free time, don’t limit yourself to these. Andorra has many other beautiful towns and villages, valleys, hiking trails and more!
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