Andorra is a small country sandwiched between Spain and France and nestled into the Alps. It is known for its gorgeous mountainous landscape and luxurious ski resorts.
Other than the tax-free shopping (which is a reason to go on its own), travellers head to Andorra for all sorts of reasons. From skiing in the winter and hiking in the summer, you can fill your days with action-packed adventures if you please.
If you enjoy a slower pace of life, you’ll be happy to know that the city is BRIMMING with luxury spas and tiny villages that you can wander around for hours. Ideal for a relaxing weekend away.
Andorra’s unique status as a microstate in Europe means it has an interesting history and culture, just waiting to be discovered. Perfect for you history buffs.
As a small, mountainous territory, Andorra can be quite tricky to navigate. It’s a good idea to gain an idea of where to stay in Andorra before you arrive so you can plan the best way to get around.
Luckily, that’s exactly why I created this guide! With the hope of making your decision-making a hell of a lot easier. I’ve compiled the best areas to stay and categorised them by interest and budget. You’ll also find the best places to stay and things to do in each.
Whether you’re going for a quick visit, or want to hit the slopes, I’ve got you covered.
So let’s get into the good stuff.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Andorra.
Casa Teva | Best Airbnb in Andorra
Located in the heart of Canillo, this ultra-modern apartment is well placed for exploring the local ski resorts of surrounding villages! Basic furnishings are included, however, some luxurious touches are added including Nordic bedding to ensure you stay cosy year-round.
The host also has superhost status.
Secret Spot Hostel | Best Hostel in Andorra
Andorra is a notoriously expensive country – but this hostel has the best rates available, making it by far the best option for backpackers on a strict budget! Despite the excellent price, it is well located next to the cable car to the largest ski resort, and within walking distance of local facilities.
Andorra Park Hotel | Best Hotel in Andorra
The only five-star hotel in this guide, the Andorra Park Hotel is a truly lavish accommodation right in the heart of the nation’s capital! Andorra is considered a luxury destination – so we absolutely recommend splashing out on this highly rated hotel.
It comes with everything you could ever want for a short break.
Canillo
Around 12km north of Andorra la Vella, and the same distance away from the French border at Pas de la Casa, Canillo is conveniently placed for those that want to easily get around Andorra during their first visit!
La Massana
Andorra is a notoriously expensive country – and where you end up will require a larger budget than you might otherwise expect in Spain or France. Nevertheless, for those that want to watch their spending, La Massana has some excellent budget-friendly accommodation options!
Arinsal
Just at the other end of the cable car from La Massana, Arinsal is part of the Pal-Arinsal ski resort area – the largest and most popular in the country!
Andorra la Vella
As the nation’s capital, Andorra la Vella is where all the action is in the small country! Though Andorra is not considered a nightlife destination, all of the best bars and clubs are located within the capital.
As Andorra doesn’t have its own airport, many visitors opt to include it as part of a larger itinerary in France or Spain. Nevertheless, this small country is packed with interesting cultural attractions and has a rich enough history to justify it as a destination in its own right!
With strong ties to both neighbors, Andorra has a unique food scene that showcases the best of both Catalan and Southern French cuisine. Whether you are interested in food, culture or skiing – each neighborhood has its own offerings.
Andorra la Vella is the official capital, although in reality, the country is small enough that it feels more like a town. Other towns in the country are well connected by the simple road network, and public transport from Andorra La Vella is fairly regular – making it a great hub for getting around.
It is also where you will find the only nightlife in the country.
To the north of Andorra la Vella is Canillo, a small town that is popular with visitors year-round. Canillo is packed with interesting religious and historic attractions – and in the winter the town bursts into life with winter sports to suit both adults and children.
It is one of the better connected towns with the outside world, only a few minutes away from the French border.
On the opposite side of the country are La Massana and Arinsal. Andorra, like most other microstates in Europe, is a notoriously expensive country – however La Massana has some great budget-friendly food offerings as well as a ski lift up to Arinsal.
For families, especially those visiting on a ski holiday, Arinsal allows you to stay right in the heart of the action. Even in the summer, this small village offers great scenery and local culture.
Still undecided? Read on to learn more about the best 4 neighborhoods in Andorra!
4 Best Neighborhoods to Stay in Andorra
Let’s take a look, in more detail, at the four best neighborhoods in Andorra. Each caters to different interests, so be sure to pick the neighborhood that’s right for you.
#1 Canillo – Where to Stay in Andorra for Your First Time
Around 12km north of Andorra la Vella, and the same distance away from the French border at Pas de la Casa, Canillo is conveniently placed for those that want to easily get around Andorra during their first visit! Canillo also comes with a great selection of restaurants, historic attractions and snowsports venues – giving visitors a sampling of everything Andorra has to offer.
During the winter, Canillo has a large entertainment venue that comes with basic snowsports such as ice skating! There are also some easy skiing resorts in the surrounding villages – making it an ideal choice for newbies to the sport. In the summer, the mountains spring to life with gorgeous scenery and wildlife.
Things to See and Do in Canillo
- The Palau de Gel is the largest ice rink in the country – coming out at the same size as the average Winter Olympics rink – and has some great entertainment facilities
- Dating back to the 11th Century, Sant Joan de Caselles is a gorgeous Romanesque church with regular tours throughout the year
- Hike up to Mirador Roc Del Quer – a beautiful viewpoint providing sweeping vistas across the town and surrounding mountains
- Another great hike is the trip up to the Cross of the Seven Arms – an important historical landmark in the Gothic architectural style
- Cal Bonavida offers some delicious French cuisine with a Catalan twist – perfect for sampling both of Andorra’s major culinary influences
Casa Teva | Best Airbnb in Canillo
Right in the heart of Canillo, Casa Teva has direct connections to the Grandvalira ski slopes as well as the town centre! There is an extra bed in the living room, meaning this apartment can sleep up to four people if required.
The kitchen area is spacious and well equipped.
Mountain Hostel Tarter | Best Hostel in Canillo
This luxurious hostel is located just outside Canillo, but is well connected to the town by a shuttle service! There is a large outdoor area that comes with a hot tub, sunbathing area and barbecue facilities.
Guests are also rewarded with unbeatable views across the surrounding mountains.
Font D’Argent Canillo | Best Hotel in Canillo
This four-star hotel is actually quite well priced given the next-level facilities they have on offer! Not only do they have a hot tub, they also offer Turkish and Finish spa facilities – as well as bookable massage and beauty treatments.
Guests are provided with a complimentary breakfast buffet.
#2 La Massana – Where to Stay in Andorra on a Budget
Andorra is a notoriously expensive country – and where you end up will require a larger budget than you might otherwise expect in Spain or France. Nevertheless, for those that want to watch their spending, La Massana has some excellent budget-friendly accommodation options!
They also have a basic culinary scene – perfect if you just need some cheap eats.
Though there isn’t much in the town itself, the surrounding villages offer plenty of quirky local attractions! La Massana is connected to one of the most popular ski resorts in the country by ski lift, and there are also great public transport links to Andorra La Vella from the centre of the town.
Things to See and Do in La Massana
- Hop onboard the cable car to Pal-Arinsal – a major ski resort in the country, with some excellent scenery on the way up
- Church of Sant Iscle and Santa Victòria is the only real tourist attraction within the town itself – this Romanesque church is quite popular so book tours in advance
- Museo del Comic is a relatively new attraction built for locals that is dedicated to comic books from across the region
- Interested in mountain biking? There are some great hire shops and facilities in the area surrounding the cable car entrance
- Tot En Pita is somewhat of a local institution – they offer some of the best priced Mediterranean cuisine in the entire country!
Secret Spot Hostel | Best Hostel La Massana
Right in the heart of La Massana, Secret Spot Hostel is only a stone’s throw away from the cable car to Arinsal – allowing you to explore two of the best neighborhoods in the country with ease! They have both dorms and private rooms, and offer the most budget-friendly rates in the country.
Calm Studio with View | Best Airbnb in La Massana
For solo travellers and couples, this gorgeous studio right in the heart of La Massana is perfect! It comes with a small balcony where you can admire views across the town and towards the surrounding mountain ranges.
It is only a short walk away from the cable car, as well as a few local restaurants.
Hotel del Bisset | Best Hotel in La Massana
Though only a three-star hotel, del Bisset is perfect for those that want a little privacy without breaking the bank! Rooms are fairly basic, but come equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay in La Massana.
A complimentary breakfast buffet is provided every morning.
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View on Osprey View on REI#3 Arinsal – Best Neighborhood in Andorra for Families
Just at the other end of the cable car from La Massana, Arinsal is part of the Pal-Arinsal ski resort area – the largest and most popular in the country! For families, Arinsal offers a good balance of cultural and winter sports attractions that cater to all ages.
Whether you’re a beginner or an advanced skier, there are plenty of options available.
In the summer, Arinsal is also a key hiking destination – again hosting a wide range of trails to cater to all abilities! The town bursts into life during regular weekend festivals celebrating arts, culture and the history of the region.
Things to See and Do in Arinsal
- Go skiing! By far the most popular attraction in the area are well-maintained slopes and excellent apres-ski activities
- For more advanced hikers, take a trip up Pic de Coma Pedrosa – though only open in the summer, it is the highest mountain in Andorra
- El Moli is a popular apres-ski venue just opposite the cable car where you can enjoy cocktails, live music and regular events throughout the year
- Mirador Roc de la Sabina is a huge viewpoint overlooking the town and ski ranges – only a short hike, this is great for the less experienced
- Head to El Bosc, a popular restaurant where you can sample local Catalan dishes and admire great views over the town
Sant Andreu | Best Hostel Arinsal
Though not officially a hostel, this small aparthotel is popular with backpackers looking for some additional privacy thanks to their reasonable rates! Limited to 19 apartments, there are also large common areas giving it a sociable atmosphere.
There is a bar and restaurant available on-site, as well as a small spa area with a jacuzzi pool.
Hotel Montané | Best Hotel in Arinsal
This three-star hotel is perfect for families looking for great accommodation at budget-friendly prices! The on-site restaurant provides gourmet pastries and coffee free of charge all day, as well as a buffet breakfast in the mornings.
Rooms are well equipped with modern décor and technology.
Charlie’s Arinsal Luxury | Best Airbnb in Arinsal
Charlie’s is a popular Airbnb hosting company across Andorra, and their luxury Arinsal apartment is perfect for families and large groups wanting to splurge on a lavish getaway to the microstate! With three bedrooms, it sleeps up to six people – and also comes with a large kitchen and bathroom.
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Grab an eSIM!#4 Andorra la Vella – Where to Stay in Andorra for Nightlife
As the nation’s capital, Andorra la Vella is where all the action is in the small country! Though Andorra is not considered a nightlife destination, all of the best bars and clubs are located within the capital – and can be surprisingly rewarding venues if you’re more interested in discovering local nightlife than the heaving club scenes of bigger cities.
Aside from nightlife, Andorra la Vella hosts plenty of excellent museums, religious monuments and cultural venues where you can learn a little bit more about this unique country! The culinary scene in Andorra la Vella is more multicultural than elsewhere in the country, but still offfers some excellent local bites.
Things to See and Do in Andorra la Vella
- The Parliament Building is located right in the heart of the Old Town – there’s a great park on the roof with views across the valley
- Club Detroit is the main nightclub in the city – though a little gimmicky, it is popular with locals and surprisingly well priced
- For a classier night out, head to La Fada Ignorant – offering food during the day, they switch to a cocktail bar and live music venue in the evenings
- Only visiting the country for a day or two? BusTuristic offer reasonably priced bus tours across the entirety of Andorra from the capital
- Make your way through the tourist traps to Plató Restaurant – a local haunt that offers some of the best cuisine in the city
Andorra Park Hotel | Best Hotel in Andorra la Vella
This magnificent hotel is one of the best rated in the country – and it’s easy to see why! It comes with unbeatable spa facilities, a large swimming pool and a world-class fitness suite.
Rooms come with private balconies, providing views across Andorra la Vella and the entire surrounding valley.
Alberg Rossell | Best Hotel Andorra la Vella
This small hostel is just outside Andorra la Vella, but provides easy access to the capital as well as to the villages leading to the Spanish border! Rooms come with their own bathrooms – so you only have to share with your roommates.
Storage space is provided for anyone arriving with their own ski equipment.
Beautiful Apartment | Best Airbnb in Andorra la Vella
This modern apartment is one of the most basic options available in the country – but the reasonable price makes it a great option for staying centrally! The host comes with superhost status, ensuring you will receive the best level of service possible.
Complimentary parking is available to guests.
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Hide Yo’ Money!What To Pack For Andorra
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Andorra
Andorra is a gorgeous country that, whilst often overlooked on itineraries to Southern Europe, is becoming an increasingly popular tourist destination! With sweeping vistas of the Pyrenées, Olympic quality winter sports facilities and a fascinating culture – it’s easy to see why more and more visitors arrive every year.
For the best area, we have to go with Andorra la Vella! As the capital city, it is truly the national hub and has great connections to all of the major towns and villages across the country – as well as onward to Spain and France.
That being said, everywhere mentioned in this guide has its own charms – and the country is so small that getting between them is fairly easy! We hope we’ve helped you to better understand the country’s neighborhoods.
Did we miss anything? Let us know in the comments.
- Check out our ultimate guide to backpacking around Europe.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Andorra.
- Let’s keep you ballin’ on a budget with our budget backpacking guide.
- Prepare for your trip with our backpacking packing list.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
