Andorra la Vella, Capital city in the Pyrenees, Andorra
Description
Andorra la Vella is the capital of the Principality of Andorra in the eastern Pyrenees, situated where two mountain streams meet to form the Gran Valira river. The city spreads along a narrow valley at an elevation of 1023 meters (3356 feet), surrounded by forested slopes and rocky peaks that frame the urban landscape.
History
The settlement emerged in the eighth century when Charlemagne founded it as part of the Marca Hispanica against Moorish expansion. Over the centuries, it grew into the political center of the Pyrenean valley and gained its current role as the seat of government.
Culture
The old quarter preserves stone houses with thick walls and slate roofs, now hosting shops and apartments. On weekends, families stroll along the pedestrian zone, where local stores offer Catalan specialties alongside modern fashion, turning shopping into a social event.
Practical
Direct bus connections to Barcelona and Toulouse airports make access straightforward year-round, with journeys taking around three to four hours. Streets in the old quarter climb steeply in places, so comfortable shoes are advisable, especially during wet or snowy winter conditions.
Did you know?
The General Council meets under the joint rule of two co-princes: the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell. This medieval dual lordship has lasted for over 700 years, making the parliament one of the oldest institutional forms in Europe.
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide. Discover all places nearby (Andorra la Vella).
Winter transforms Europe into a landscape of snow and shorter days, where cities and mountains take on a different character. Capital cities like Stockholm, Reykjavik, and Prague host Christmas markets in ancient streets, while the cold shapes how people move through daily life. Alpine regions such...
Executive Council of Andorra
615 m
Casa de la Vall
1.8 km
Poliesportiu d'Andorra
1.5 km
New Parliament of Andorra
1.7 km
Església de Santa Coloma d'Andorra
675 m
Andorra National Library
1.8 km
Casa dels Russos
987 m
Sant Vicenç, Enclar
699 m
Passeig del Rec del Solà
1.3 kmRoc dels Corbs
1.4 km
Peintures murales de Santa Coloma
679 m
Cal Closca
1.7 kmRoureda de la Margineda
1.2 kmSite archéologique de Roc d'Enclar
702 mMural, Work of art
593 mMirador del Roc de Solobre
1.1 kmSculpture, Work of art
827 mWork of art, sculpture
1.1 kmVia ferrada de Sant Vicenç d'Enclar
632 mWork of art
1.8 kmMirador del Roc de Palomera
1.8 kmSculpture, Work of art
1.8 kmSerradora
570 mCreu de terme
1.3 kmTancerze. 100-lecie reformy
1.8 km700-lecie podpisania paktu
1.8 kmBonaventura Casal Farràs
1.6 kmSerradora
576 mDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
From secret cafés to breathtaking viewpoints, skip the crowded tourist spots and find places that match your style. Our app makes it easy with voice search, smart filtering, route optimization, and insider tips from travelers worldwide. Download now for the complete mobile experience.
A unique approach to discovering new places❞
— Le Figaro
All the places worth exploring❞
— France Info
A tailor-made excursion in just a few clicks❞
— 20 Minutes