Andorra is a small country sandwiched between Spain and France, and is known for its gorgeous mountains and luxurious ski resorts! These more well-known attractions aside, Andorra’s unique status as a microstate in Europe means it has an interesting history and culture waiting to be discovered.
Though a fairly small destination, it can easily be added to any Spanish or French itinerary.
As a small, mountainous territory Andorra can be quite tricky to navigate. There are two main roads running through the country, and there is only one road in each direction leading in and out of the country.
It’s a good idea to gain an idea of the best neighborhoods before you arrive so you can plan the best way to get around.
That’s why we’ve created this guide. We’ve figured out the four best places in Andorra and categorised them based on what kind of traveller they are best for.
Whether you’re going for a quick visit, or want to hit the slopes, we have you covered!
So let’s get started!
Unlock Our GREATEST Travel Secrets!
Sign up for our newsletter and get the best travel tips delivered right to your inbox.
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in Andorra.
Best Airbnb in Andorra: Casa Teva
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.
Best Hostel in Andorra: Secret Spot Hostel
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.
Best Hotel in Andorra: Andorra Park Hotel
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 neighbours, 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 neighbourhoods in Andorra. Each caters to different interests, so be sure to pick the neighbourhood 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
Best Airbnb in Canillo: Casa Teva
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.
Best Hostel in Canillo: Mountain Hostel Tarter
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.
Best Hotel in Canillo: Font D’Argent 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!
Best Hostel La Massana: Secret Spot Hostel
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.
Best Airbnb in La Massana: Calm Studio with View
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.
Calm Studio with View is one of our favourites in Andorra but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Best Hotel in La Massana: Hotel del Bisset
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.
Hotel del Bisset is one of our favourites in Andorra but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
We’ve tested countless backpacks over the years, but there’s one that has always been the best and remains the best buy for adventurers: the broke backpacker-approved Osprey Aether and Ariel series.
Want more deetz on why these packs are so damn perfect? Then read our comprehensive review for the inside scoop!
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
Best Hostel Arinsal: Sant Andreu
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.
Best Hotel in Arinsal: Hotel Montané
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.
Best Airbnb in Arinsal: Charlie’s Arinsal Luxury
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.
Charlie’s Arinsal Luxury is one of our favourites in Andorra but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
A new country, a new contract, a new piece of plastic – booooring. Instead, buy an eSIM!
An eSIM works just like an app: you buy it, you download it, and BOOM! You’re connected. It’s just that easy.
Is your phone eSIM ready? Read about how e-Sims work or click below to see one of the top eSIM providers on the market and ditch the plastic.
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
Best Hotel in Andorra la Vella: Andorra Park Hotel
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.
Best Hotel Andorra la Vella: Alberg Rossell
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.
Best Airbnb in Andorra la Vella: Beautiful Apartment
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.
Beautiful Apartment is one of our favourites in Andorra but they’re not taking guests right now. We’re not sure if they’re closed for good but we hope they’ll come back soon.
Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.
Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!
We’ve tested the Geopress rigorously from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!
View on REI Read the ReviewDon’t Forget Travel Insurance for Andorra
ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing.
They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.
SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!
Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.
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.
Do you own an awesome hostel, hotel or apartment? Want to be featured in our list? Email [email protected] to find out how.
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!
