Visiting Andorra from Barcelona is not only possible, but highly recommended. The sheer beauty of the mountain region of Andorra makes the 2-hour journey more than worth it.
Visiting Andorra from Barcelona is a great way to escape the hectic life of Barcelona. Situated between France and Spain in the Pyrenees mountains, Andorra is a paradise of nature. Lively towns surrounded by mountains and picturesque valleys with running streams flowing through pine tree woodlands. In winter, you can enjoy skiing and summer months hiking and walks.
Andorra can be visited in a day from Barcelona, but an overnight stay would be advised to explore the area. If you travel from Barcelona to Andorra, a hire car would be the best option to explore the area. Travel time from Barcelona to Andorra would be almost 2 hours drive and is worth considering if you have the time in your schedule.
The official language spoken in Andorra is Catalan. However, the most spoken language is Spanish. Statistically, Catalan is spoken more in everyday situations outside the home. Inside the home, Spanish is the most common language spoken. Due to the proximity to France, many people will speak or understand some French. As Andorra is a popular European resort, English is spoken and understood by employees that work within the tourist industry.
What To See And Do In Andorra
The seasons of Andorra are typically divided into two seasons, winter and summer.
Andorra has a some of the best ski resort within the Pyrenees mountain range. During the summer months, activities change from skiing to hiking and mountain activities, which in Andorra there are many. Below we have compiled some main attractions and things to do when you visit Andorra.
- MOUNTAINS AND TRANQUILITY – Andorra has breathtaking beauty, just being there gives a sense of karma to your mind and body. The beauty of nature is everywhere in Andorra, and exploring this mountain region is such an enjoyable experience.
- WINTER SKIING – Andorra has world class ski resorts such as Grandvalira, Pal-Arinsal and Ordino Arcalis. Over 305 kms of ski slopes served by over 15 ski lifts.
- CALDEA SPA – One of Europe’s largest spas, Andorra’s tallest building and over, 6000m2 of construction space. Thermal water at 70ºC is rich in minerals from natural springs to help you relax and unwind. You can find the Caldea Spa in the picturesque town of Les Escaldes.
- MOUNTAIN VILLAGES – There are so many picture postcard mountain villages to visit in Andorra. The town center and capital of Andorra la Vella is a great place to explore with great restaurants and shops. Venture more in to the mountains and some beautiful villages await you. Traditional stone built houses surrounded by rising mountains make Andorra a joy to explore.
- HISTORIC MONUMENTS – There are many historic buildings to explore throughout Andorra such as churches, stone bridges and other historically important monuments. Andorra is full of historic importance and many interesting buildings and monuments are there to be discovered when you visit Andorra.
How To Get To Andorra From Barcelona
The only realistic way to visit Andorra from Barcelona is by car or hire car.
You will need transport to get around this mountain region of the Pyrenees, as there is so much to explore. Visiting Andorra from Barcelona involves taking the C-16 motorway (Autopista) and then joining the N-260 until reaching the border of Andorra. Travel time is about 2 and a half hours or less. There is also a bus that will take you to Andorra. This bus leaves Barcelona Sants every two hours, and the journey time will take 3 hours.
It is possible to visit Andorra in a day from Barcelona. It would be essential that you leave first thing in the morning and return at night. If possible, it is worth spending a night or two to explore properly the beauty and tranquility of Andorra.
