Andorra is absolutely an up-and-coming destination in Europe, with millions visiting every single year to enjoy the thrilling ski and snowboard slopes in winter or the picturesque hiking trails in winter, while others come for the famously cheap shopping.
With Andorra located just 130 kilometres away from the city of Barcelona in Catalonia, Spain, it is possible to do a Barcelona to Andorra day trip. Is it worth it? Absolutely, and in this blog post we’ll explain why.
day-trip-andorra-from-barcelona
Is a day trip to Andorra from Barcelona worth it?
First things first, can you do a day trip from Barcelona to Andorra? Yes, you absolutely can. With the day trip Andorra from Barcelona distance measuring in at just 130 kilometres, that means you can travel between the two popular tourist destinations in under three hours. That leaves plenty of hours to explore the principality if setting off in the morning and returning at night.
Of course, it’ll depend a little on how many days you have in Barcelona, but if you’re staying in the Catalan city for several days then it’s normal to look up day trips from Barcelona and to research what is the best day trip from Barcelona. And, Andorra is certainly up there as one of the best trips you can do in one day from Barcelona, especially since the tranquil atmosphere of the microstate can be a welcome contrast to the hustle and bustle of the big city.
How to get from Barcelona to Andorra
The next obvious question is: What are the day trip Andorra from Barcelona transport options? In other words, is it best to find a Barcelona to Andorra train, a Barcelona to Andorra bus or to rent a car and drive yourself?
Well, the first option, of a Barcelona to Andorra train, can be quickly ruled out, since Andorra doesn’t have any intercity train stations. As a small and mountainous Pyrenean country, the terrain is too impractical to build rail infrastructure. So, Andorra has no major train stations, just as it also doesn’t have its own airport.
But, there are other Barcelona to Andorra day trip transport options. The most common and most practical one is to travel from Barcelona to Andorra by bus. There are multiple companies running daily services from the Catalan city to Andorra la Vella, the capital of Andorra. Ticket prices vary, but they are affordable and the journey – which is an experience in itself, thanks to the stunning scenery – lasts approximately three hours.
Of course, another option is to rent a car and to drive from Barcelona to Andorra. You’ll be following the same roads and route as the Barcelona to Andorra bus, but just with a little extra independence and convenience.
What to see and do in one day
As for what to do in Andorra on a day trip, keep in mind that you’ll most likely arrive into the capital city of Andorra la Vella, so you’ll want to explore the charming old quarter, look up the top things to do in Andorra la Vella and maybe even indulge in some cheap shopping. Another must while in the capital is to try the local cuisine at some of the best restaurants in Andorra. Also located near the capital city is the famous Caldea Spa Andorra, which is the largest thermal spa in all of southern Europe.
It's also worth venturing out of the city to explore some of the Pyrenean countryside. Even if only visiting for a day, that’s still plenty of time for some of the shorter hikes in Andorra, which offer beautiful scenery, peaceful surroundings and a refreshing change of pace from Barcelona.
Suggested itinerary
How does the above Andorra day trip look like as a suggested itinerary? Well, you could plan something like:
· 08:00: Depart from Barcelona by bus or car.
· 11:00: Arrive in Andorra la Vella and explore the city.
· 13:00: Enjoy a traditional Andorran lunch at a local restaurant.
· 14:30: Go for a walk along one of the routes near to Andorra la Vella.
· 17:00: Return to Andorra la Vella and do some shopping.
· 18:00: Depart from Andorra by bus or car.
· 21:00: Arrive back in Barcelona in time for dinner.
Travel tips for a smooth trip
Before setting off on your Andorra adventure, it’s worth noting these few practical tips, which can help make your day trip as smooth and enjoyable as possible.
Firstly, don’t forget your passport, because Andorra isn’t a part of the European Union. Even though most people can visit without a visa and even though checks at the border are rare, it’s best to be prepared and to have your passport with you just in case. As for the Andorra currency, the microstate uses the euro so that makes it even easier to visit from Barcelona. You might want to make sure you bring cash, though, to avoid the risk of any charges for using your credit card in another country.
As for the weather and the conditions, be prepared for the altitude and be ready to take it easy if high altitude is something you’re not used too. Also note that the weather in the Pyrenees can change quickly, so be sure to bring both a waterproof and sun cream. You might need them both!
All in all, visiting Andorra will be much like visiting Barcelona. It’s very much a European country and culture, with friendly people and with a lot to see and do.