where to stay in andorra: best areas for skiing & shopping

The Best Places to Stay in Andorra for Skiing and Shopping

By Carles Barcelo. Reviewed on January 2026

Andorra is a small, landlocked country located in the Pyrenees mountains between Spain and France. Despite its size, it is one of the most popular winter destinations in Europe, known for its excellent ski resorts, family-friendly slopes, and duty-free shopping.

The country attracts visitors mainly during the winter season thanks to its well-developed ski infrastructure, but it is also a popular destination year-round for shopping, hiking, and wellness breaks. With modern hotels, scenic mountain towns, and easy access from both Spain and France, Andorra is an excellent choice for both short getaways and longer stays.

Practical information for visiting Andorra

• Country: Andorra

• Currency: Euro (€)

• Language: Catalan (Spanish and French widely spoken)

• Safety: Very safe destination

• Best time to visit:

  • December to March for skiing
  • June to September for hiking and shopping

• Getting there: Access by road via Spain or France (no international airport)

Where to stay in Andorra: quick overview

• Skiing - Vallnord → La Massana, Ordino, Arinsal (family-friendly)
• Skiing - Grandvalira → Soldeu, Pas de la Casa, El Tarter
• Shopping → Andorra la Vella, Escaldes-Engordany
• Related destinations: Barcelona, Nice, Cannes
• Best all-round base: Escaldes-Engordany (ski access + shopping + spa)

The best ski resorts and shopping areas

Skiing - Vallnord

Main towns: La Massana, Ordino, Arinsal

Firstly, the Vallnord ski and snowboard resort is located just north of the capital and links the skiing areas of Pal, Arinsal, and Arcalís under a single ski pass. The atmosphere here is particularly family-friendly, and snow conditions are usually excellent throughout the season, supported by modern snow cannons when required.

The slopes cover all difficulty levels, including green, blue, red, and black runs, as well as freestyle areas, wood parks, children’s zones, medical facilities, car parks, cafés, and mountain restaurants. The Vallnord Ski School employs over 250 instructors and offers both group and private lessons for all ages and abilities.

Programmes range from single-day lessons to week-long courses, including special sessions for toddlers and young children in snow gardens and nurseries. Non-skiers can enjoy activities such as snowmobile rides, speed riding, bungee trampolines, airboarding, and laser combat.

La Massana and Ordino are the best places to stay near Vallnord, both located at the foot of the slopes. Accommodation options include hotels, apartments, and chalets, with plenty of restaurants, bars, and relaxed nightlife options.

Accommodation near Vallnord

Skiing - Grandvalira

Main towns: Pas de la Casa, Soldeu, El Tarter, Canillo

The Grandvalira ski resort is the largest in Andorra and one of the biggest in Europe, covering the ski areas of Soldeu, El Tarter, and Pas de la Casa. With more than 100 slopes, it caters to all skill levels and has hosted international events such as the Speed Skiing and Women’s Skiing World Cups.

The resort offers children’s circuits, freestyle parks, snow parks, and ski schools providing lessons for skiing and snowboarding. Other winter activities include snow biking, dog sledding, cross-country skiing, paintballing, and even overnight stays at the Igloo Hotel, built entirely from snow.

The best places to stay in Grandvalira are Soldeu and Pas de la Casa, both offering ski-in/ski-out accommodation, impressive mountain views, and a wide range of hotels, apartments, and chalets. Pas de la Casa is known for its lively après-ski scene, while Soldeu offers a more relaxed and upscale environment.

Accommodation near Grandvalira

Shopping

Main cities: Andorra la Vella, Escaldes-Engordany

Andorra la Vella, the capital, is well known for its duty-free shopping. The best shopping area is around Carlemany Avenue, where you will find a wide variety of shops selling electronics, fashion, cosmetics, toys, and souvenirs.

The modern Illa Carlemany shopping centre is located in the heart of the city and features international brands, cafés, restaurants, and a cinema. Many hotels are located nearby, making this area ideal for travellers focused on shopping.

Escaldes-Engordany, adjacent to the capital, is centred around Meritxell Avenue and offers department stores, designer boutiques, electronics shops, supermarkets, and a wide range of restaurants. The area is also home to the Caldea Thermal Leisure Centre, making it one of the best places to stay for combining shopping and relaxation.

Accommodation near Shopping Area

Related Destinations

If you are planning a longer trip in the region, you may also enjoy Barcelona for city breaks near the Pyrenees, Nice for French Riviera highlights, or Cannes for beaches, shopping, and luxury.