Officially dubbed as the Principality of Andorra, Andorra is a small, independent, landlocked country situated between France and Spain in the Pyrenees mountains. The nation is one of the smallest countries in Europe, covering an area of about 468 square kilometers (181 square miles). Despite its size, Andorra boasts stunning mountain landscapes, ski resorts, and a unique blend of Catalan culture and heritage. Andorra is a parliamentary co-principality, meaning it has two heads of state: the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell (a town in Catalonia, Spain).
The capital city is Andorra La Vella (meaning 'Andorra the Old' in Catalan). It is the highest capital city in Europe at an elevation of 1,023m above sea level. The city has a charming aura with a mix of modern buildings and historic architecture, and is known for its shopping streets, thermal spas (e.g., Caldea), views of the surrounding mountains, and notable landmarks like the Casa de la Vall and Sant Esteve Church.
UTC+1 daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October.
Because Andorra has the pyrenees Mountain range you may encounter Avalanches.
When committing an offence in Andorra, you may be given an on-the-spot fine, where immediate payment via receipt is accepted. This ensures foreign drivers don't evade payment by leaving the country. Common road offences include:
Use of mobile phones (handheld) while driving will result in a €20 fine, whereas, use of headphones/single-ear devices is €60 – €300, depending on rule set. Tinted windshields/windows below UNECE standards are illegal (front: €60 – €120, side: €30 – €60). And winter equipment (e.g., snow chains and winter-rated tyres) are mandatory between 1st November to 15th May. No compliant equipment will result in fines around €180 - €500+, depending on vehicle size and severity.
The official language of Andorra is Catalan, but Spanish, French and Portuguese are also spoken.
There are no visa requirements for entry into Andorra; however, the regulations for France or Spain should be followed, depending on which country is entered to reach Andorra.
Andorra is not part of the European Union, despite using Euro.
On the roads of Andorra, vehicles drive on the right side. When driving in Andorra you must hold a valid UK license and must be 18 years or over. Your car must be insured and have a third party cover or more. When driving at night they ask you used dipped beam lights, this can also be applied if the visibility is low during the day.
Fuel stations are plentiful and open 7:00–20:00 (some 24hrs). A range of fuel are available in Andorra such as Leaded (98 octane), unleaded petrol (95 & 98 octane) and Diesel (Gasoil), but not LPG. You are not allowed to carry a petrol can in Andorra so make sure you fill up on fuel regularly and plan where your next station will be on your journey. All stations will accept credit cards but you must notify your bank that your card will be used outside the UK.
The speed limits in Andorra can vary depending on the area:
Note: there are no motorways or highways in Andorra.
The legal limit is 0.05%, and fines can reach €600+.
When driving, all passengers including driver must be wearing seatbelts.
Children under 10 years or under 1.5 metres tall must use an EU approved car seat adjusted to their size. If a child under 10 is in the front passenger seat, the airbag must be turned off. If your car is unable to turn off the front airbag, the child will not be allowed to travel in the front seat.