Andorra la Vella is the capital and one of the the most beautiful cities small principality of Andorra. The city is located in a picturesque place high in the Pyrenees mountains, where rivers and roads, past and present intersect.
The city dates its history back to 805 AD: then it was first mentioned in chronicles. His education began with a small community created by shepherds and peasants from Catalonia. Neighboring states - France and Spain - did not abandon their attempts to subjugate this new territorial entity with the beginnings of statehood. As a result, a protectorate of both countries was established here.
Almost half of the capital's residents are native Andorrans, the rest come from France, Spain and many other European countries. They speak Catalan, French and Spanish.
Important transit routes from south to north pass through Andorra la Vella. There are no large industrial enterprises that pollute the environment. The capital's production sector includes a tobacco factory, a lime plant, a food processing plant, as well as a spinning, carding and woodworking enterprise. The city budget is formed from revenues from services provided to tourists, trade and banking institutions.
The capital has a developed network of hotels, restaurants, shops, entertainment and health centers.
Climate and weather
The territory of the Principality of Andorra is not large enough to state significant differences in the climatic characteristics of different parts of the country.
For the weather big influence warm air masses coming from outside Mediterranean Sea. This is why the climate here all year round soft and warm. In summer the air warms up to +15...+20 °C, and in winter the thermometer varies between +2...-2 °C.
Andorra has a large number of sunny days - about 250 per year. All these climatic factors create ideal conditions for mountain tourists ski resorts felt cozy and comfortable at any time of the year. The ski season starts in December and ends by mid-April.
Nature
Andorra la Vella is listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the highest European capital: it is located at an altitude of 1079 meters above sea level. It is surrounded by rocky mountains, coniferous forests and picturesque gorges.
Two rivers connect in the city: Valira d'Ordino(Valira d'Ordino) and Valira d'Encamp(Valira d'Encamp), forming a river Valira. Active economic activity has caused damage to this waterway, which is considered the most important in the country. The banks of the river are encased in concrete, and therefore its natural replenishment with water from melted glaciers running down from the mountains in the warm season is very difficult. However, this does not prevent the use of Valira water as a medicine, because it is completely harmless and, moreover, is saturated with sulfur.
Talking about water sources and their healing properties, one cannot help but talk about the largest spa center in southern Europe " Caldea", built in Andorra la Vella. The water used here comes from thermal springs. It contains dissolved minerals that help get rid of skin diseases and various allergies.
The clean air in Andorra la Vella will be the envy of many capitals around the world. A large number of plantations of spruce, pine, fir and juniper make it healing, helping to get rid of various diseases of the lungs and upper respiratory tract. That is why people from all over Europe come here to strengthen their body. Doctors state that prolonged stay in the high-mountainous capital of Andorra helps to increase vitality.
In the forests and gorges of the mountains that are around Andorra la Vella, you can find mountain goats, Pyrenean chamois, martens, squirrels, foxes, Catalan hares, and Pyrenean muskrats. Birds include pheasants, wood grouse, eagle owls, royal eagles and buzzards. Representatives of the animal world can be seen during specialized excursions dedicated to the nature of Andorra.
Attractions
In Andorra la Vella, ancient and modern architecture are surprisingly subtly and harmoniously combined. New buildings built from glass, concrete and steel do not at all spoil the overall ambiance of the medieval buildings. Walking along the streets of the city, you often get the feeling of flying in a time machine, when moving from one street to another is like moving from century to century. The greatest interest, of course, are buildings and structures that are hundreds of years old. Thus, tourists eagerly visit the official residence of the government " House of the Valleys" The building was erected in 1580 and belonged to a noble family. Over the years it has been rebuilt several times. It acquired its final form only in 1702, becoming Palace of the Andorran Parliament.
Amazes with its magnificent decoration St Stephen's Church, which is located near the old part of the city. This religious building was built in the 12th century and is made in the Romanesque style.
For connoisseurs of architectural heritage, a visit to the church in Santa Colomna, a village located near the capital, will be of interest. The first stone of its foundation was laid at the beginning of the 12th century. Then it was repeatedly rebuilt and modified. Inside this masterpiece of architectural art, a fresco with the Virgin Mary depicted on it, which was painted by an unknown author in the first days of the opening of the church, has been preserved.
The main church of the country is St. Stephen's Church- the largest in size. It rises above the city, symbolizing the power of faith in God.
In Andorra la Vella there is the only courthouse in the country, located in the Sala de la Giusticia palace.
A favorite vacation spot for citizens and tourists is the historical square. Plaza la Poble, which is also cultural center capital, where various ceremonies, holidays and festivals are held. The State Theater and the Academy of Music are within walking distance from here.
Nutrition
The national cuisine is in many ways similar to French and Spanish.
The most popular restaurants are Can Benet, Borda Estevet, Angel Belmonte and Papanico.
Can Benet is located in the historical part of the city. Its spacious and antique-style interior gives visitors a sense of tranquility. Here you can taste international and purely Andorran cuisine. For those who are looking for new and unique tastes, the restaurant's chef will prepare his signature meat dishes. average price A three-course dinner, excluding drinks, will cost 30 € per person. The helpful and competent restaurant staff will leave a pleasant impression. Business people usually come here.
The Borda Estevet restaurant has a lively rustic character, the interior of which is somewhat old-fashioned, but this does not lose its attractiveness and sophistication. Here you can book a table by the window overlooking the Valira River. Visitors are offered original French cuisine. The menu includes traditional dishes prepared from fresh ingredients. A standard dinner per person at this restaurant costs only 20 €.
In the simple and friendly atmosphere of the Angel Belmonte restaurant you can taste Spanish cuisine, of course, of the highest quality. The menu is based on traditional recipes. Grilled fish is a specialty at Angel Belmonte. The average cost of dinner per person is 48 €.
A romantic atmosphere reigns in the Papanico restaurant. This is an exceptional place serving Spanish cuisine with authenticity and fine taste. The restaurant's signature dish is tapas, as well as fish delicacies prepared by the chef with a creative approach. The regulars of this restaurant are tourists and local connoisseurs of Spanish cuisine. The average cost of a three-course dinner is 15 €.
Accommodation
Andorra la Vella has a developed network of hotels and inns of varying comfort.
The cheapest hotels are usually occupied by students, young people and hitchhikers. For €18, the capital's only one-star hotel, Alberg la Comella, offers rooms with 8 beds, marble or tiled floors, heating, wardrobe, shower, shared bathroom, and beautiful views of the mountain range or valley. Bed linen and towels are provided at an additional cost.
For more comfortable conditions, you can stay in two-star hotels: Hostal Cisco De Sans, Hotel La Pedrera, Hotel Les Fonts, Hotel Santa Barbara, Hotel Valmar, Residencia Indalo, Sant Jordi. The family room has satellite TV, a bathroom with a set of toiletries, a telephone, and adjustable heating. The price of a room depends on the range of services and amenities: from 26 € to 104 € per day.
When choosing where to stay in Andorra la Vella, you should carefully study all the offers of local hotels and inns. The fact is that some three-star hotels offer rooms much cheaper than their two-star counterparts, but at the same time they are an order of magnitude higher in comfort. Thus, rooms at prices per day from 35 to 55 € are offered by the Jaume I hotel. In addition to the fact that the rooms here are well and tastefully furnished, you can use the services of a safe to store valuables, sunbathe on a specially equipped terrace, access the Internet via free Wi-Fi. In addition, the hotel offers a wide range of recreational activities for guests, from walking and cycling to skiing and snowmobiling. A similar service is available at the hotels Andorra Palace, Annapurna, Bon Repos, Casa Vella, Comtes De Urgel, De L"Isard, Eurotel, Florida, Hotel Bellpi, Hotel Festa Brava, Ibis, La Cabana, Marco Polo, Paris Londres, Roc Del Sola, Salvia, Salvia d'Or, Silken Eurotel and others.
Four-star hotels are the most popular among Russian tourists. Here the level of service and the interior of the rooms claim to be of the highest category. The rooms have everything you need for a comfortable stay for a long time: safe, air conditioning, work desk, spacious wardrobe, bathroom with toiletries, telephone, TV with satellite channels, minibar... Prices for apartments in such hotels vary from 60 to 998 € per night. Hotels in this category include: Acta Arthotel, Andorra Center, Apht Prisma, Arthotel, Centric Husa, Cervol, Diplomatic, El Serrat, Font De Argent and others.
In the highest price position are five-star hotels, of which there are, it should be noted, many in Andorra la Vella: Andorra Park Aparthotel, Andorra Park Hotel, Carlton Plaza, Crowne Plaza, Diana Parc, Holiday Inn Crowne Plaza, Hotel Starc, Plaza and others. They are usually located in the most picturesque corners of the capital, within walking distance from ski slopes and large stores. Their interior is extremely luxurious, and the range of services and customer service will satisfy the needs of the most demanding clients. Such hotels operate business centers, entertainment centers, health centers, beauty and recreation salons, bars and restaurants. A day's stay in one of these hotels will cost from 100 € to 1485 €.
Entertainment and relaxation
Andorra la Vella is a resort area consisting of two skiing regions: Valnord And Grand Valir.
Grand Valir has excellent schools for beginner skiers. Experienced skiers and snowboarders will also find trails that suit their level.
Those who like to ski steep slopes and on virgin soil go to Vallnord. There are also gentle, well-equipped trails for people just starting to ski.
The trails in the Pas de la Casa snowpark have been rolled out especially for snowboarders of beginner and intermediate levels. But the El Tarter snowpark will appeal to professional snowboarders.
In addition to snowboarding and skiing, you can have a pleasant time at the Caldea thermal spa complex. Wellness water treatments taken in jacuzzi, waterfalls, baths, saunas, geyser pools. At the service of clients are massage rooms, VIP clubs, cafes and restaurants, tennis courts and much more.
All entertainment and health facilities, as well as bars, restaurants, cafeterias are open until 24:00. Siesta time lasts from 13:00 to 17:00.
Purchases
Andorra la Vella connects the transport routes along which goods are transported from France to Spain and vice versa. Due to the fact that duty-free trade has been introduced in the country, these goods can be purchased at very low prices- 60% lower compared to European prices. Since the capital is a center of trade, all tourists and simply shopping lovers go here, where there are large stores and fashion boutiques. The largest shopping mall in Andorra la Vella - Pyrenees. Chic boutiques occupy a large area of this store, which feature branded clothing and shoes, household appliances and accessories.
Andorra 2000 and Olympia are also considered elite shopping centers, where you can buy everything from toothpicks and handkerchiefs to sports equipment and sophisticated household appliances and electronics.
All stores accept plastic cards as well as euro cash. However, the country restricts the export of goods without first declaring them if the total purchase price exceeds 525 € for one adult and 270 € for one child under 15 years of age.
Most shops on weekdays are open from 9:30 to 20:00-21:00, lunch break is from 13:30 to 16:30, supermarkets and department stores are open without lunch. On Sundays, stores close at 19:00.
Banks are open for customers from 9:00 to 16:30-17:00 (break - from 12:00 to 14:00).
Transport
To move around the city you can use regular buses (paid), ski-bus(free), as well as taxi.
Regular buses run every 15-20 minutes. Their routes extend to the popular ski areas of Soldeu el Tarter and Pas de la Casa. Free ski-buses run only twice a day. This is their inconvenience.
It is almost impossible to catch a taxi on the street; it must be ordered in advance by phone. The cost of travel within the city will be 5-6 €, and to get to ski lift, you will have to pay 15-20 €. At night, taxi fares double.
For those who want to actively move around the country, you should rent a car. The rental price will be from 60 € per day.
Please note that from October 10 to May 15, winter tires must be installed on the car, and chains must be wrapped on the wheels for trips to the mountains. The implementation of these rules is strictly monitored by law enforcement officers.
The speed limit on city and rural roads is limited to 40 km/h; on highways you can accelerate no more than 70 km/h. For exceeding the established speed limits, a fine of 30 € is imposed.
Connection
Andorra la Vella has all types of communications with high quality connections. For example, from an ordinary pay phone (powered by a magnetic card) on the street you can call anywhere in the world. At night and in holidays rates are cheaper, but calls from hotels tend to be more expensive.
On the streets of the capital you can always catch Wi-Fi lines, most of which are password-protected. However, with due persistence, you can find among them those available for general use.
The mobile operator in Andorra is represented by the only national company. You can only purchase a SIM card at her office. It is important to note that the services mobile communications They're not cheap here.
Safety
The state of Andorra is considered one of the safest in Europe. There is not even a prison on its territory. True, experienced tourists warn that when traveling from Barcelona airport to Andorra, you should keep an eye on your suitcases, as cases of theft are not uncommon.
Business climate
The key business interests of the country and a number of other European countries are concentrated in Andorra la Vella. Doing business here can have great prospects. The country does not have taxes on sales profits, property and inheritance, but there are annual mandatory contributions and payments.
The banking sector is especially developed in the capital. Investments in the form of long-term deposits from neighboring countries. Banks are predictably stable in their operations. This is also facilitated by the wide range of services they offer.
Real estate
Andorra la Vella is considered the most advantageous location for investing in real estate, the market price of which is constantly growing. Thus, a two-room apartment costs on average 200,000 €, and a comfortable country house - from 2,000,000 €. High prices due to high demand and lack of free space for residential development.
Real estate purchase and sale transactions must be formalized through a notary, to whom a fee of 2.5% of the value of the goods is paid. In Andorra la Vella, you need to pay a municipal tax for real estate once a year, the amount of which is differentiated by the size of the occupied area.
When vacationing at ski resorts, remember that it is prohibited to enter buses and other public transport in ski and snowboard boots. It is also not customary to ride the bus while standing. Therefore, do not be surprised if the bus passes by the stop: it is simply full of passengers. Rush hour occurs at 19:00 in the evening, when most tourists return from ski resorts to hotels.
Europe is rich in dwarf states, each of them has its own unique history and even its own chronicle, which, for example, like that of, begins around 778 AD. is in 178th place out of 194 in terms of area and is located in most beautiful place between France and Italy in the Pyrenees. The capital of Andorra is considered to be the highest mountainous European city - Andorra la Vella, rising 1029 meters above sea level.
Let's get acquainted: Andorra la Vella!
Andorra la Vella is the most Big City principality (12 sq. km.), we can say that it is located in its heart on the banks of the mountain river Valira. The capital is home to about 22,700 residents - this is approximately a little more than a third of the total population of the state. About 7,000 are hereditary Andorrans, the rest are mainly Catalans, Spaniards and French. Their children even go to local national schools. The capital's suburb, Escaldes, begins across the bridge over Valira.
The city authorities are actively developing the tourism industry as the main source of income, in the form of shopping and a ski resort. Therefore, come for shopping at any time, and for skiing adventures in winter. You can get to the capital of the principality without any problems from international airport in Barcelona (220 km).
Climate of Andorra la Vella
The entire territory of the principality is small enough to indicate significant differences in weather conditions in different cities.
Warm air from the Mediterranean Sea shapes the weather conditions of the capital of Andorra all year round. This makes the climate mild and warm. Summer temperatures reach +16+20 degrees, and winter temperatures fluctuate around +2 degrees.
The capital has about 250 sunny days, and winter is always very snowy, this creates ideal conditions for any relaxation and good mood.
Everybody go skiing!The capital of Andorra is conveniently located in a valley surrounded by a ring of the Pyrenees mountains; the height of the peaks in some places reaches 3000 meters above sea level. The mountain range is replete with gorges, complex and gentle ridges. The proximity of the Mediterranean Sea ensures a comfortable winter with average temperature about 0+1 degrees. And it would be completely short-sighted to miss such conditions and not create a real ski resort in Andorra la Vella. There are four skiing regions with extensive possibilities in terms of complexity, length and equipment.
Tourists who come to ski on the slopes mostly travel by taxi; it is relatively cheap; no one comes with equipment to the ski lifts. You can order a car either by phone or at the hotel both there and back to the lift itself or the descent. By the way, regular city buses also go to the slopes.
Sights of Andorra la Vella
It would be weird like that old place there is nothing interesting or spiritual to see except the tips of your skis or the inviting counters. The main objects of excursion tourism are:
In addition, the city is full of simply nice old buildings, against which you can take beautiful and bright photographs.
Cuisine and restaurants of Andorra la Vella
Hotels in Andorra la Vella
In the capital of Andorra, there is a room for every tourist according to his capabilities and desires:
In Andorra la Vella, in addition to hotels with 5, 4 and 3 stars, there are very budget hotels, as well as hostels where you can spend the night and use a shower for only €18. Moreover, 2 and 3 star hotels periodically offer discounts and promotions, which is always beneficial for budget-conscious tourists.
Shopping in Andorra la Vella
The capital of Andorra is a true shopaholic's dream. As a free trade zone, Andorra has become the European center of goodness. With rare exceptions, all the world's leading brands and boutiques have their stores and representative offices here. Several hundred signs from chic spots to modest shops are concentrated mainly on the streets of Avenue Meritsel and Avenue Charlemagne. Andorra is very favorable for imports and offers trading companies good tax conditions.
The mountain capital is famous for its reasonable prices for high-quality tobacco and alcohol, video equipment and other achievements of technology and electronics. You can buy sporting goods, clothes and shoes, watches and jewelry, ski equipment, perfume and much more with a guarantee and at an excellent price, so tourists don’t even have to think about it as a souvenir. For security reasons, your currency will only be exchanged for euros in banks.
How to get to Andorra la Vella?
Since the Principality of Andorra does not have its own airport or railway station(the mountainous terrain does not allow them to be built), the most convenient route is an air flight through international terminal airport in Barcelona, Spain. Sometimes there are similar flights to Toulouse - this is the French side.
There is a daily scheduled bus service from the airport, both a municipal and hotel shuttle. The first flight leaves at 6:15, the last at 23:45. The journey will take you no more than three hours from any airport with beautiful scenery outside the window and costs about €33, round trip - €57. For the convenience of tourists, buses are equipped with comfortable footrests, DVDs and TVs, and there is also an equipped toilet.
If you decide to take a walk around Barcelona before your trip, please note that some routes to Andorra depart from the Barcelona-Nord bus station in Barcelona, in which case a one-way ticket costs €27-30, and a return ticket costs €47.
Those who like to travel independently can rent a car in advance. Taking into account gasoline, parking and rental costs, a round trip will cost about €100. From Barcelona you have to cover a distance of 210 km, from Toulouse a little less - 194 km. In addition, by car you can always stop for a good shot or sightseeing.
TransportTo get around Andorra la Vella and any other city, you can use regular buses, free ski-bus and taxi service. There is no concept of urban transport here. The transport network is common throughout the country and is connected by cities and resorts.
Ski boots are not allowed on buses, and all your belongings must be placed in the cargo area. As a rule, only seating is used, in mountainous areas It is prohibited to stand in transport. Although during the city rush hour around 19:00 you can’t breathe in public transport.
Regular buses operate routes daily at intervals from 30 minutes to an hour and a half. From the ski resorts towards the city center, the last bus leaves at 18:30. There are 8 bus routes across the capital to neighboring towns and ski resorts. The fare is €1.5-4, but for distant resorts and international flights Additional charges may apply. And to some ski slopes there are special night routes.
Ski bus - special routes that go to the ski lifts. They run every 15-20 minutes, the fare is €2. But there are only two free routes: in the morning and at lunch.
The Funicamp cable car connects Andorra la Vella with the neighboring towns of Escaldes and the largest ski resort, Grau Reuig. This is the longest road in Europe; in about 25 minutes you will reach the top station of the ski resort from the center of the capital.
Usually, cable car open until 17:00, fare – €3.5.
Taxi is a very popular form of transport; you won’t be able to catch one on the streets of Andorra la Vella; you need to order a car in advance by phone. The cost of travel within the city is about €5, to the ski lifts €15-20. At night the price is always twice as high.
If you are used to moving actively, it is better to rent a car. The daily rental cost will be €60 or more, depending on the car. Remember that from October 10 to May 15, the car must have winter studded tires, and when traveling to the mountains, chains are wrapped around the wheels. The minimum fine for violating a traffic rule is €30.
(function(w, d, n, s, t) ( w[n] = w[n] || ; w[n].push(function() ( Ya.Context.AdvManager.render(( blockId: "R-A -143470-6", renderTo: "yandex_rtb_R-A-143470-6", async: true )); )); t = d.getElementsByTagName("script"); s = d.createElement("script"); s .type = "text/javascript"; s.src = "//an.yandex.ru/system/context.js"; s.async = true; t.parentNode.insertBefore(s, t); ))(this , this.document, "yandexContextAsyncCallbacks");
Today I would like to tell you about the capital dwarf state Andorra - city (cat. Andorra la Vella, Spanish Andorra la Vieja, sometimes the transcription Andorra la Vella is found). Andorra - famous ski resort, which is famous for its picturesque slopes, designed for both beginners and very experienced ski lovers. Most tourists who come to Andorra stay in Andorra la Vella. The city has many attractions that are worth seeing.
History of Andorra la Vella
The population in these areas appeared in the Neolithic era. In 795, Charlemagne included these territories in Marca Hispanica— Spanish stamp, buffer zone between Moorish Spain and the Frankish Kingdom. At the beginning of the 9th century, Andorra la Vella was founded, which in 1278 became the capital of the Principality of Andorra. Since 1993, when the Constitution was adopted, state authorities have been located here.
The population of the capital is 22,256 inhabitants (as of 2011), and with the suburbs (Escaldes-Engordany, Escaldes-Engordany) - more than 40 thousand. Andorra la Vella is also the highest European capital - it is located at an altitude of 1023 m above sea level.
Attractions of Andorra la Vella
While my companions were skiing, I was sightseeing in Andorra. And I devoted a couple of days to the capital, the city of Andorra la Vella. In the first days the weather was rather cloudy. And then the snow fell (although it was early March, everything was already in bloom), and the city was literally transformed.
Andorra la Vella stands at the confluence of two rivers - Northern Valira ( Valira del Nord) and Eastern Valira ( Valira de l'Orient), which form Gran Valiru (Gran Valira).
The city is located in a narrow river valley and is therefore literally sandwiched between high mountains. Houses are visible here and there on the mountain slopes. Here, on the slopes, vegetable gardens are laid out - exactly like ours, from scrap materials.
Vegetable gardens on mountain slopes
If you go to the right, you will end up in Spain; If you go left, you will come to France
Streets of Andorra la Vella after snowfall
Andorra la Vella is adjacent to the city, and from the high hill you can see the spire of the spa center, which, if possible, is worth a visit.
The city has preserved old stone houses. The oldest building is St. Stephen's Church (Esglesia de Sant Esteve) in Romanesque style, built in the 11th century.
At the beginning of the 16th century it was built ( Casa de la Vall), where parliament has been sitting since 1702. Nowadays there is also a museum here, which is definitely worth a visit.
There are also many modern buildings and sculptures in Andorra la Vella.
The mountains around the city go from where they open beautiful views to the city and mountains.
View of Andorra la Vella from the walking trail
Here you can buy bags for dogs
Walking path along the cliff
View of Andorra la Vella from the walking trail
Mountains in Andorra la Vella
Walking path along the cliff
Nature is everywhere in Andorra la Vella. There is practically no feeling that you are in the city - in 10-15 minutes you can climb the mountains and only the noise of cars will be heard from a distance.
Therefore, even if you are not a fan of skiing, be sure to go to Andorra. In addition, be sure to visit the resorts and, which will also be of interest to hikers. There are picturesque walking routes. So a holiday in Andorra is not only skiing, but also walks around picturesque places, sightseeing.
And, of course, many will be attracted by shopping in Andorra: many goods can be bought here much cheaper than in neighboring countries.
Flights, hotels, excursions and tours to Andorra
Andorra itself does not have its own airport. The nearest one is in Barcelona(Spain), from where tourists travel to Andorra independently or by transfer. The road is very beautiful, going through the Pyrenees mountains.
Hotel prices in Andorra la Vella you can look at, for example, Booking.
Andorra la Vella and Andorra in general are very pleasant to travel around. If you prefer to travel independently, you can take a car directly from Barcelona airport car rental, for example, in Rentalcars. Order excursions in Andorra with a Russian-speaking guide can be found on the website. In addition, from Andorra you can take an excursion to the cities of Spain and France. The road in the mountains is extremely beautiful. You can view excursions on the website.
© Website, 2009-2019. Copying and reprinting of any materials and photographs from the website in electronic publications and printed publications is prohibited.
Andorra la Vella from A to Z: map of hotels and ski areas, slopes and pistes, lifts and ski passes. Vivid photos and videos. Reviews from ski tourists about Andorra la Vella.
- Tours for the New Year Worldwide
- Last minute tours Worldwide
The capital of a tiny state that is 5.5 times the size of modern Moscow, Andorra la Vella will delight guests with ski resorts, inexpensive shopping and interesting sights. Everything here is aimed at tourists, and this is not surprising - there are many more of them in the city than local residents: the ratio of 1 to 32 is not in favor of the Andorrans.
If you wish, you can get around the capital of the principality on foot - its area is 12 square meters. km. Almost all the narrow streets of Andorra la Vella lead to the mountain slopes.
The city, which arose in the 9th century, is located in the very center of the country, in a basin between the peaks of the Pyrenees. The valley, formed by the Valira River at an altitude of 1050 m above sea level, is replete with unusual mountain scenery, but it has all the advantages of a European city: many restaurants, hotels and entertainment centers offer the full range of necessary services.
How to get to Andorra la Vella
Andorra has neither an airport nor railways. Therefore, you will have to get to the capital of the principality from the nearest European cities- Spanish Barcelona or French Toulouse. The first is located 210 km, the second - 196.
Once you arrive in Barcelona, you need to take one of the 7 Andbus buses to Andorra la Vella. The first one departs at 10:00, the last one at 22:00. Travel time is about 3.5 hours. A one-way ticket costs 33 EUR, a round trip ticket costs 56 EUR. At the office You can check the schedule on the website. Alsa also operates flights from Barcelona. The first bus leaves at 6:30, the ticket costs about 30 EUR. You can purchase it at the office. company website.
You can take a taxi from both cities to Andorra la Vella. The cost of the trip will be about 305 EUR. Prices on the page are as of September 2018.
Traveling from Toulouse by public transport is less convenient - only three buses depart from this city's airport towards Andorra. It is possible to get to the principality using the shuttle provided by the hotels. But this must be agreed upon in advance with representatives of the hotel where the room is booked. A ticket for a regular Andbus bus costs 37-42 EUR (office website). The first departs from the airport at 11:00, the last at 20:00.
Search for flights to Barcelona (the closest airport to Andorra la Vella)
Districts of Andorra la Vella
It's not easy to get lost in Andorra la Vella. The highest mountainous European capital is a central street running along the Valira River with branches of narrow alleys and small neighborhoods intertwined with each other.
The ancient settlement, on the site of which the city was formed, now forms the Old Quarter of Andorra la Vella - Barri Antique. The dominant feature of this area is the ascetic House of the Valleys, built in the 16th century. Parliament used to sit here, and now there is a museum.
The Old Quarter contains the main attractions, and it is best to get around it first.
Area where concentrated cultural life city, located around Plaza la Poble. Capital Theater and concert hall, as well as the largest in the country shopping mall are within walking distance of each other. For shopping, we recommend going to the area of Avenue Charlemagne and Avenue Merichel, which flow into one another. These streets are home to many boutiques and restaurants. The quiet and measured life of the townspeople, devoid of tourist splendor, can be observed in the Puy district, where most government institutions and residential areas are located. Here steep descents give way to long ascents - this adds variety to the walk.
Transport
The capital of the Principality of Andorra is so small that you can completely do without public transport. But there are buses in and outside the city that carry passengers within special tariff zones. The fare, depending on the distance of the route and direction, ranges from 1.85 EUR (within the city) to 6.20 EUR (within the country).
You can also order a taxi. It is almost impossible to catch a car on the street, so you need to book it in advance. This can be done at a hotel or restaurant. Sometimes you have to wait quite a long time for a taxi - 1-1.5 hours. The daytime rate is 1.12 EUR per km, and the night rate is 1.33 EUR.
A bicycle is perfect for exploring the city and surrounding areas. Bike rentals are available in hotels. Renting will cost approximately 9-10 EUR per day. You can ride in winter - the trails for road bikes are dry, even if there is snow in the mountains. In summer there are mountain bike parks in Grandvalira and Vallnord.
Maps of Andorra la Vella
Alpine skiing in Andorra la Vella
There are 5 ski stations in the vicinity of the city. Those who live within the city limits, and not at the foot of the slope, can choose where to go skiing. You'll have to get to the tracks public transport or by taxi, since they are all located outside the capital.
There are two ski areas in Andorra - Grandvalira and Vallnord. The first is one of the largest in the Pyrenees. There are 118 trails with a length of more than 200 km. The elevation difference on Grandvalira is approximately 930 m. Vallnord is half the size, but has the longest slope for beginners - the 8-kilometer Megaverda piste will conquer even those who are starting to ski for the first time. In total, Vallnord offers 69 trails with a total length of 93 km. They are divided into three sectors with a common ski pass. In the Arinsal sector there are slopes with the largest elevation difference in the country - more than 1000 km. There are three ski schools in Vallnord. They also teach snowboarding and telemark skiing.
The slopes in both areas are well-groomed and the lifts are modern. If necessary, turn on snow cannons. The sunny slopes are suitable for both beginners and experienced skiers. In many areas there are slopes specifically for children, who start skiing from the age of 4.
Ski pass
Before buying a ski pass, you need to choose a ski area - Grandvalira or Vallnord. The first is larger with 6 sectors, the second is smaller - with three.
A one-day ski pass in Andorra la Vella costs 49 EUR for adults, 45 EUR for teenagers 12-17 years old (with an identification document) and 34.50 EUR for children. There is a weekly subscription, it will cost 360.40 EUR. You can save money and take a morning ski pass for 26 EUR. You can ride on it from 9:00 to 12:00. While half a day, regardless of the time of day, will cost 37 EUR.
Places where you can rent equipment in Andorra la Vella are called Gear hire. These services are provided both on the slopes and in most hotels. Skis and boots are issued against the security of a passport or driver's license. If you hire a ski instructor at the same time, you can negotiate a discount on the rental price. The price will also be reduced if you rent skis for a period of 6 days or more. The average cost of a set of skis, poles and boots is 16-29 EUR per day. Snowboard rental price - 21.50-40 EUR.
Andorra la Vella
Treatment in Andorra la Vella
One of the main natural resources Andorra la Vella - water. Over time, they learned to use it for therapeutic purposes. In the early 90s, in the town of Escaldes, near the capital, the Caldea balneological center was built; it became the largest thermal water center in Europe. Here you can visit thermal springs aimed at treating skin problems. They contain sulfur, mineral salts, sodium and thermal plankton, which help moisturize the skin. Admission ticket at Caldea it costs 37 EUR for adults and 25 EUR for children.
A complete healing course is offered by another complex of thermal waters - INUU. Here, medical consultants work with visitors and develop individual programs, including wellness treatments and a complex of therapeutic nutrition.
Hotels in Andorra la Vella
Andorra la Vella entered the top 10 European capitals with inexpensive hotels. A night in a 4* hotel here will cost an average of 40-130 EUR per day for a double room. If you book accommodation near the slopes, the price will increase by about 1.5 times. From the center of the capital to the ski resorts it will take about 20 minutes by bus or taxi.
The choice of hotels here is wide - from modest guesthouses for 440-50 EUR, to five-star hotels with gyms, swimming pools and ski storage. The most expensive rooms cost about 180 EUR per night. The most popular hotels among tourists are 2-3* hotels, which practically do not differ from each other in terms of service and price. But for the period from December to mid-April, when the city is in high season, you need to book rooms almost six months in advance. The cost of living here per day is 40-60 EUR. It is possible to rent apartments, but there are not so many of them in the city, as well as offers to rent an apartment.
Shopping
Andorra la Vella is called European duty-free, as the boutiques of leading brands here operate according to the rules of the free trade zone. In the city you can buy anything for a third cheaper than in the rest of Europe. And in January, sales begin, and prices drop even more. Price ski equipment here it is 50% lower than anywhere else, but this does not affect its quality. You need to go shopping on Avenue Charlemagne and Avenue Merichel, where most of the shops are located.
In addition to household purchases, you can bring authentic souvenirs from the capital of Andorra. And although it is sometimes difficult to find something unique among typical Spanish and French products, it is worth a try. Firstly, this is Catalan style jewelry. Secondly, high quality cigars and tobacco. Thirdly, original leather products - belts, wallets and bags.
Also popular goods in souvenir shops are figurines of bulls, various fans, collectible edged weapons and different types of castanets.
Cuisine and restaurants of Andorra la Vella
Andorra la Vella offers tourists mainly Spanish and French cuisine. But the dishes here are prepared more simply than their European neighbors. “Home” versions of grilled meat and fish are available in almost any restaurant. Among the dishes that can only be tasted here, we recommend paying attention to Catalan sausage. It is prepared according to ancient recipes and people are rightfully proud of this dish. You should definitely order Andorran trout. This is also one of the exclusively local recipes.
Inexpensive restaurants will offer guests lunch costing up to 20 EUR. The price of dinner in establishments of a higher class will be about 40 EUR. Breakfast in a cafe will cost 10-15 EUR. There are also gourmet restaurants in the capital with their own seafood nurseries.
It is better to make plans for dinner in advance, since all restaurants are closed after 22:30.
Pyrenean gastronomy depends on the season. For example, in the fall you should definitely try game. In Andorra la Vella, they serve hare and wild boar meat with a side dish of local mushrooms. In spring, they prepare special bunyol de vent Easter cupcakes. Also typical for this time of year are herring and eel dishes. In the summer, people in the capital like to eat chicory salad with bacon, and in the winter, boiled pork with vegetables.
Guides in Andorra la Vella
Entertainment and attractions
The main attraction of the Old Quarter is the Casa de los Valles - the seat of government, on the top floor of which, in the Council Chamber, parliamentary meetings are still held. There is also a hotel and a prison where only indigenous residents of the country can stay. Nearby is the Sala de la Giustica, the only courthouse in the country, as well as the Sala del Consell, the building of the country's parliament, on the upper floors of which the Philatelic Museum is based.
Another interesting building here that looks like a castle is the Sete Panis House, also known as the “chest of seven locks.” This “chest” once contained the most important documents, and only representatives of all seven districts of the country together could enter the house - each of them had a key to one lock.
There is also something to see outside the Old Quarter. Plaza la Poble is home to the State Theater and the Academy of Music, and hosts a jazz festival every July. And, of course, one cannot fail to mention the churches, the most popular of which is the Church of St. Armenol. Besides it, it is worth visiting the Church of Santa Colomna - one of the oldest churches in the country, and the Church of Santuario de Meristel. And in the churches of St. Andrew and St. Stephen you can even see paintings from the 13th century. In addition, near the city, in La Margineda, there is the largest medieval bridge in the country.
Andorra da Velha for children
Tourists with very young children can entrust them to the staff of the so-called snow kindergartens while skiing. Here, teachers will look after them, and experienced instructors will help them take their first steps on skis. Staying in such a nursery costs 68 EUR per day.
17 km from the capital there is the largest adventure park for children in the Pyrenees, Naturlandia. One of its impressive attractions is a toboggan slide that is over 5 km long. One trip for an adult and a child will cost 30 EUR and 14 EUR respectively. The park also has a rope ride and a small zoo.
A 20-minute drive from Andorra la Vella, in the town of Canillo is located Ice Palace Palau de Gel with lots of activities for children including go-karting, ice quests and ice skating. In the evenings, master classes for beginners are held here (office website br
December
The ski season in Andorra la Vella lasts from December to mid-April. It was during this period that the capital was attacked by amateur and professional athletes. The weather in Andorra is mild thanks to the Mediterranean warm air currents. The number of sunny days per year reaches 250, creating almost ideal conditions for skiing. In winter there is a lot of snow, it lasts until April, but this is in the mountains, and at this time you can see flowers below. The city has very clean air, so the climate is considered healing. What makes it so is coniferous forests, of which there are a lot in Andorra la Vella. They help in the prevention of lung and respiratory diseases.
The capital of the country (principality) of Andorra is the city and ski resort - Andorra la Vella - a Guinness Book record holder, because... It is considered the highest capital of Europe: the city is conveniently located in the Pyrenees mountains, at an altitude of 1055 m.
Attractions of Andorra la Vella
Andorra la Vella is the cultural and commercial center of the country. The architecture of the city organically intertwines the past and the present: next to huge business centers, hotels of various categories, shopping malls and ultra-modern buildings there are cozy small cafes and restaurants, ancient temples and castles. Architectural masterpieces antiquity and modernity do not contradict each other. The latest designs made of concrete, steel and glass fit perfectly into the medieval stone streets.
The city is divided into two parts: old and new. Historical monuments concentrated in the old part, while the new one is considered the business center. In the old part of the city, tourists can see beautiful buildings of the 12th century, made in the Romanesque style - the Church of St. Stephen and the Church of Santa Colomna. And in the very center of Andorra la Vella there is the famous Plaza la Poble square, where holidays and folk festivals are held annually. Tourists also take part in them with pleasure.
Transport in Andorra la Vella
Andorra is a small country, so you can get around it by regular bus. These buses run strictly on schedule (every 15–20 minutes), and their fare depends on the duration of the route. There is also free transport in the city - Ski-bus - but it runs only twice a day, which makes it not very convenient.
You can also get around the city by taxi, but the fare in this case will be quite high. In addition, you won’t be able to simply catch a car on the city streets: you need to order it in advance, preferably 1–1.5 hours before the intended trip.
You can rent a car. But you need to remember that traffic in Andorra la Vella is very heavy. Therefore, you can leave your car only in special parking lots.
Shopping in Andorra la Vella
Many tourists come to the capital of Andorra just for shopping. After all, duty-free trade is carried out in this country, and prices for quality goods from leading European brands are often much lower than in the country of origin. Discounts can reach 60%.
And you can buy everything here: clothes and shoes, watches, jewelry, cosmetics and perfumes, equipment, alcohol and tobacco, chocolate. And there is no doubt that all products will be of the highest quality.
After successful shopping, a tourist can go to one of the nice restaurants and enjoy local dishes that resemble a mixture of French and Spanish cuisine.
Things to do in Andorra la Vella
Andorra la Vella offers tourists a wide range of entertainment. Fans of skiing will be able to go to Vallnord or Grand Valir and go skiing or snowboarding.
Lovers over have a relaxing holiday can visit the famous Keldea spa center. There is a jacuzzi, baths, saunas, and a massage room. It is believed that thermal waters, which are the basis of the spa program, heal many skin diseases.
Nature of Andorra la Vella
Andorra la Vella is surrounded on all sides by picturesque mountain ranges, which so attract fans of alpine skiing. The air here is surprisingly clean. There are no large industrial enterprises in the capital that would spoil the natural charm of this wonderful corner.
Many Europeans come to Andorra la Vella to improve their health. Pines, fir, spruce and juniper bushes planted at every step saturate the atmosphere with phytoncides. They have a beneficial effect on the respiratory system.
The Valira River flows through the city. Once it was a rapid mountain stream, but now Valira calmly carries its waters, pacified and encased in concrete.
