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Traveling in Andorra by motorhome or camper: everything you need to know before leaving
Regulations on parking, overnight and camping in Andorra
It can generally be said that Andorra is not an easy place to drive and park due to its high volume of vehicles, limited parking spaces, and steep inclines. Furthermore, there are areas where motorhomes are prohibited, such as the entire municipality of Andorra la Vella, where parking is completely forbidden . While there is a private paid parking lot, most other private parking lots also prohibit motorhomes.
The Principality of Andorra offers many more options for parking and spending the night, such as parking lots on the ski slopes or some recreational areas. If you prefer, there are also campsites.
As for camping, it is only allowed in campsites or private motorhome areas, on public roads it is totally forbidden to camp like Spain.
We remember that camping is removing any element from the perimeter of the vehicle (table, chairs, awnings ...).
Services for motorhomes and campers
In Sant Julià de Llòria, there is a free water emptying and filling point at the River Shopping Centre. It is the only free point in all of Andorra; elsewhere, you will find several motorhome areas with paid water emptying and filling services in most tourist towns and areas.
Gasoline and tolls in the country Andorra
Fuel is much cheaper in Andorra! It's worth filling up before leaving the country.
In the whole country there is only one toll that goes from El Pas de la Casa to Grau Roig (6 euros), but you can avoid it by going up the Port d'en Valira, with impressive views.
We set up a totally personalized Click & Go motorhome route, where you just have to click and forget to think about where to go, where to park, what to visit, where to spend the night with the motorhome and even what to do.
A route agreed with you, always according to your tastes and needs, so that you can go calmly, safely and your motorhome trip is unforgettable!
In addition, if it is your first time in a motorhome, we will advise you on where to rent the motorhome, how a motorhome works and on the existing regulations of the country you are going to in a 1-hour video call.
And finally, we give you support on your route.
PRICE: Depending on the days of the organized motorhome trip to be assembled.
5 tips, 5 things you MUST NOT do if you go to Andorra in a motorhome or camper or whatever
What not to do 1: Connect to the internet?
Andorra mobiles: Roaming in Andorra, turn off the mobile + Solutions to connect
1. Don't even think about entering Andorra with your mobile data turned on . Roaming in Andorra. A simple WhatsApp message and it'll cost you €40. So before you reach the border, turn off your mobile data.
In principle, they cannot charge you more than €50 , since the new legislation has limited roaming bills to this amount, provided there is no prior roaming consent.
If they charge you something, call your company and claim, in general they will return the full amount that they have charged you.
Now you might ask, how do I connect to the internet in Andorra? Well, there are two good solutions to connect to the internet in Andorra without roaming on your mobile:
The first option is free. Go to the River shopping center in Sant Julià de Llòria and connect to their free Wi-Fi . Also, if you're traveling to Andorra in a motorhome, you can stay overnight there without any problem.
The second option is to get an Andorran prepaid SIM card. For this, I recommend buying and using a prepaid SIM card from Holafly , like we do. You buy it before you go and it arrives at your home in just over a day.
This is how we solve the issue of roamging in this country when we go.
What not to do 2: Enjoy the snow even if I don't like skiing?
Andorra snow = skiing but also snowshoeing, snowmobiling, mushing, building an igloo, skating and many other things to do in Andorra
2. Never leave Andorra without experiencing the snow . It doesn't matter if you're a skier or prefer the sofa. Andorra guarantees snow and skiing every winter. If you leave Andorra without visiting one of its ski resorts, you won't have truly seen the splendid Andorra in winter.
But what is there to do in Andorra if you don't like skiing? This country is one of the best places in the Pyrenees to enjoy the mountains and great snow. That's why we suggest visiting three ski resorts that offer much more than just skiing, so you won't leave without enjoying the snow.
Andorra skiing and much more
I recommend visiting one of these 3 Andorran ski resorts, with tips on Andorra ski passes for those resorts and alternatives to skiing:
Andorra Grandvalira
Grandvalira (with different sectors: Canilló , El Tarter, Grau Roig, Soldeu, Pas de la Casa, Peretol, and Encamp) is undoubtedly Andorra's premier ski resort. The Grandvalira ski pass, at €52 for adults, €46,50 for ages 12-17, or €35,50 for ages 6-12, is one of the more expensive options, but it covers all these sectors. Without a doubt, it's the best pass for a fantastic weekend.
In addition, in the ski resort of the Grau Roig sector of Andorra Grandvalira you can do activities such as snowmobiles (€ 120 for 2 seats) or make an igloo for those who do not like to ski.
And if what you prefer is ice skating, you have a good plan in Canilló, where you will find the Palau de Gel d'Andorra with a super ice skating rink, which is open all year, plus other activities such as karting, quads, etc. Ahh and the best the ice rink is free for the Super 3 Club!
Andorra Vallnord
– Vallnord (with different sectors: Pal + Arinsal + Ordino Arcalís). The price of an adult Vallnord ski pass is €41, and for beginner skiers there is a pass for €19,50 that allows use of the chairlift and conveyor belt for beginners, including the access gondola (which costs €11 round trip from La Massana or €6 from Arinsal). The Vallnord ski pass is free for children under 6, and for those aged 6 to 15, the Andorra Vallnord ski pass is €35.
In addition, a good tip to save on the ski pass is to buy it 48 hours in advance on the web, where you will get a 15% discount on the Andorra Vallnord ski pass, a good guaranteed savings.
In Pal if you don't like skiing, you can sled on a good track for € 5 per person with a conveyor belt.
La Rabassa- Naturlandia
– La Rabassa – Andorra Naturlandia , a fantastic cross-country ski resort and snowshoeing trails, but also an adventure activity park (snowmobiles, zip lines, etc.). Whether you like cross-country skiing or not, this is a beautiful place if you're wondering what to see in Andorra.
It's divided into two sections: the 1600-meter level, where the amusement and adventure park is located, and the 2000-meter level, where the cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails are found . The price of a cross-country skiing pass is €12, and the animal park pass is €14 for adults.
Don'ts 3: Be careful with shopping
Shopping, many purchases, but what to buy in Andorra?
3. Never overspend on purchases in this country, or they'll cost you dearly when you cross the border. Andorra: what to buy, the dilemma. Shopping is definitely a must when you're wondering what to do in Andorra.
The savings from the Spanish VAT rate of 21% compared to the Andorran VAT (IGI) rate of 4,5%, one of the lowest in Europe, make shopping in Andorra very attractive. If you need to buy anything and you're traveling to Andorra by campervan or car, it's definitely worth checking out Andorran products; however, remember to be aware of the limits.
It's well known that there are significant savings on perfumes, electronics, tobacco, alcohol, and food , which is why many people buy these products there. However, there are limits on importing these items for personal use, and you need to be aware of them. Otherwise, you'll have to declare them at customs and pay a fee, almost like a fine, which will make the product more expensive than if it were Spanish. In some cases, it might even be cheaper to have it confiscated.
Limits on purchases.
In general, you should know that the maximum value of imported goods per person over 16 years of age must be less than €900 . This includes less than 3 liters of alcohol (under 22% ABV ), less than 16 liters of beer, less than 300 cigarettes , less than 5 kilos of sugar or sweets, less than 6 liters of milk, less than 1 kg of coffee, etc.
Don'ts 4: Don't forget the documentation in Andorra with children and dogs.
If you go to Andorra with children do not forget the documentation and if you go to Andorra with a dog either: passport, rabies and serology will be some of the requirements
4. Never leave Spain without your children's ID cards, especially if you're going to Andorra. Andorra is a good destination for families with children, but keep in mind that it's an independent state, a separate country, with the Euro as its currency, Catalan as its only official language, and culturally similar to Catalonia and Spain.
As an independent state from Spain, to travel with minor children they will need a valid ID card , so it is important that you think about this if your children do not yet have an ID card.
So apart from thinking about what to do with children in Andorra, think about their ID.
Andorra with animals
Another thing to consider is the issue of pets if you have a dog. The requirements for bringing animals into Andorra are that they must be over 3 months old, have an animal passport issued by your veterinarian, have up-to-date rabies vaccination, and also have a negative rabies serology test from your veterinarian.
What not to do 5: Do not forget the snow chains or winter wheels from November 1
In winter by car or motorhome = Andorra snow. Chains yes or yes. Winter wheels maybe
5 Never go to Andorra in winter without carrying snow chains or winter tires on your vehicle.
Even if it seems like a beautiful day, in this country, as throughout the Pyrenees, the weather can change in a second and it can start snowing. Besides, if it's cold, there's no guarantee you won't encounter patches of ice or snow on the road. Therefore, never forget to bring snow chains , and ideally four , one for each wheel if you're traveling to Andorra in a motorhome, or at least two if you're going by car.
But it is also that, as of November 1, it is mandatory to bring winter tires or 2 snow chains for the driving wheels, otherwise they will not let you enter Andorra.
Large motorhomes need 4 better than 2 chains to pull properly. If it is a car with 2 in principle there is enough in normal conditions. There are chains of many types, some easier than others to put on and of different formats: cloth, iron, etc ...
Andorra weekend in winter + Andorra trip in winter + Andorra snow = think of snow chains
However, if you plan on heading to the Andorran snow every weekend for skiing, snowshoeing, or any other activity, we recommend fitting winter tires . You'll have complete peace of mind. And for absolute safety, keep two extra snow chains in your trunk for extreme conditions.
You can read about all of this in our post "Winter tires or chains? Which to choose?"
Finally, a piece of advice also if you are going by car or to Andorra by motorhome: between 17 hours and 20 hours the roads are in chaos during the high winter season. During the closure of the tracks, the routes of cars and vehicles increase in such a way that the only road that crosses the small country and the main towns collapses. Therefore, knowing this, avoid traveling during those hours, take the bus or leave before the slopes.
What to see and do in Andorra by motorhome
Shopping in Andorra la Vella and bathing in Caldea
Visiting Andorra la Vella by motorhome is somewhat difficult, since it is totally forbidden, with signs everywhere, to park motorhomes.
However, it is not possible to do your shopping in the city center or relax at the Caldea thermal baths.
It is possible, by parking at the River in St Julià de Llòria, the best option for us and which we show you in the following video.
The Roc d'en Quer viewpoint
The Mirador Roc de en Quer, one of the essential visits that everyone speaks well of.
There are panoramic views to enjoy the sensation of flying or being suspended in the air.
It is located in the parish of Canillo. Do not miss it as an essential part of your route through the best places to see in Andorra by motorhome or camper.
Lakes of Tristaina by motorhome or camper
Route through the 3 Lakes of Tristaina, a very cool route to do with children better to do it from the upper parking lot of Arcalís Ordino, but with more unevenness from the first parking lot of the ski resort, where you can spend the night in a motorhome.
During the excursion you can see the three lakes of Tristaina. If you want to do it, we recommend that you do it early because it is a bit crowded.
For the bravest we recommend you go up to Pico de Tristaina where you can enjoy spectacular views.
Strolling through Tristaina you will be able to enjoy horses, cows, frogs and the odd goat in summer and in winter to be well equipped because by the beginning of November everything is already snowy.
We leave you our video of when we recently went up in early November.
What to see and do in Andorra with children, more plans in Andorra in a motorhome
What to do with children is easy to answer too: Mountain, walks, nature, routes to lakes, skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiles, Naturlandia, Caldea ... in general there are many plans to do with children in Andorra in winter.
Recommendations: 6 plans in Andorra with children
– Go ice skating at the Palau de Gel ice rink in Canilló . A fantastic plan, and what's more, it's free if your child has a Club Súper 3 membership.
– Go to Naturlandia and enjoy their adventure activities and do a small snowshoeing circuit in winter, they will love it.
Enjoy Caldea and Caldea Likids, which allows you and your partner to spend three hours alone in the spa while your little ones have three hours in a super exclusive children's spa with supervisors and have a fantastic time. All this for around €125 for the four of you. It's not cheap, but babysitting has its price…
– Stroll among dinosaurs in the Juberri Gardens in Sant Julià de Lòria . Within a spectacular natural setting, these private gardens, which are free to visit, feature contemporary art sculptures collected by the owner, as well as a garden full of dinosaurs and many other animals! Your little ones will love it!
– In addition, there are many other things to do, such as the iron route , where from an interpretation center and on a short snowshoeing route your children will discover all about the exploitation of the old iron mines, or visit a museum such as the miniature museum, etc…
– Finally, another suggestion is to take a short hike to Lake Engolasters or a slightly more challenging hike to the Tristaina Lakes . Hiking for everyone in stunning locations.
+1 extra plan -> The search for Tamarros, an essential thing to do in Andorra with children
In search of the Tamarros!
You may wonder what Tamarros are or perhaps you are already one of those who already know them and have spent all the gasoline in Andorra!
For those of you who do not know them, we will give you a summary.
The Tamarros are wooden figures located in the 7 Andorran parishes.
You have to go looking for them. They're usually near a specific location , and you don't need to go far from your vehicle.
Children must mark a book that they give you at the Tourist Office of Andorra la Vella and return it stamped.
Then they give you a little something (a magnet) that the kids always find funny.
Andorra how to get there
How to get to Andorra by plane
Arriving in Andorra by train
How to get to Andorra from Barcelona by bus
Getting to Andorra from Barcelona by car
We who go many times, we go through the Collada de Tosses, the national 260 that runs between curves for an hour but that saves you the Cadí tunnel of almost € 13 each way and the Montserrat toll of almost € 8 on the weekend . In addition, by the Collada there are usually no retentions in high season. A trick to shorten the curves of the Collada de Tossas is to turn around the Molina and not make it entire.
If you usually go a little, it may be worth it to go along the c-58 motorway and the Cadí tunnel and spend 40 euros on the round trip on tolls, but you do think that on Sundays there is a long queue on the way back. Leave early or wait to leave at 20:XNUMX p.m.
Accommodation and where to sleep in Andorra in a motorhome
If you go to Andorra by motorhome to ski or whatever, I recommend you go to the following places to spend the night:
– The River Shopping Centre parking lot is located on the road to Andorra la Vella near Sant Julià de Llòria. It's a good place to spend the night with free Wi-Fi in Andorra if you're traveling by campervan. Sometimes it doesn't empty out until quite late, but there are always campervans. Also, from this parking lot, if you're visiting Andorra la Vella by campervan, you can easily get around and go shopping by bus.
– The Grau Roig ski resort parking lot, which usually has plenty of space and is free, allowing you to easily spend the night right at the foot of the slopes. A good place to stay if you're visiting Andorra in a motorhome.
– Free reserved parking for motorhomes at the Pal ski resort . If you're traveling to Andorra in a motorhome and want to ski at Vallnord, there's a reserved parking area for motorhomes in the Pal sector. It's a bit away from the slopes, but a bus (actually an SUV with a trailer) runs every 10 minutes and takes you to the slopes for free. Above all, make sure you park where the sign indicates you're reversing.
– Parking at the foot of the slopes at the Arinsal ski resort . If you're planning a trip to Andorra in a motorhome or campervan to ski at Vallnord, keep in mind that you can also use the Arinsal parking lot, right at the foot of the slopes. Here, you can park and stay overnight without any problems in your motorhome. Traveling by motorhome has many advantages, and one of them is being able to sleep right at the foot of the ski slopes. Amazing!
– Andorra la Vella's central parking lot . We don't recommend it during peak season; entering Andorra la Vella in a motorhome is chaotic, with lots of cars, especially after 17 pm when the ski slopes close. It's preferable to go to Andorra la Vella by bus . From River, the shopping center I mentioned as a place to stay overnight. You can take the bus and buy your ticket there. A good alternative given the parking restrictions in Andorra la Vella.
And another thing to know is that where you will not be able to spend the night in Andorra in a motorhome is in La Massana, also prohibited for motorhomes.
Photo gallery of our trips and snow breaks by motorhome
Other related posts ...
AC getaways to inspire you
List of posts with the getaway diaries that we have made in our motorhome with and without snow
Very good post focus. I take note and keep it in favorites for when we organize a trip to Andorra.
Thanks friend, I hope it is useful and you enjoy it a lot above all! A hug!
I loved the post !! Super useful for traveling with kids to Andorra, you have made it very easy for me so I point this destination as a favorite !! Thanks for sharing
Thanks to you! Your getaway to Andorra will surely be a great family experience. Don't forget to tell us about your return 🙂
I loved how you explained it! But if I teleported Andorra !! Thank you
Thanks to you for sharing that thanks! it is made with love so that it serves other traveling families 🙂 A hug!
Look Andorra is a destination that calls me a lot, with this piece of guide now I have no excuse, it's great, thank you.
I loved the Post! Now you really want to visit Andorra.
How many things to do in Andorra !!!! A super complete and useful post!
Jo I have a crazy desire to go to know everything that they have explained to us so well and I have always wanted to know Andorra so I write everything down
Christmas there must be amazing, and everything is snowy!
When I was there we were driving and of course, it is not the same. Anyway, it is a magical place, and with your advice I think we would have no problem.
I love the proposals that you mend, wanting to make a getaway! Thank you honey
Elena doesn't know snow yet and she reminds us of it every year hahaha. We signed up several things since Andorra is close to us and we can go. Thanks for this detailed article.
Madremia, what an organization, how well detailed everything, makes me want to leave right now. We will save your recommendations for a possible trip, although we will surely leave it for next year when the third is older. Thank you ❤️
Thanks family!
Well, I have been many times at Christmas as a child. We went before the dates but when it was all lit up and it was beautiful. Since then I have been more times but for work and I always want more. You have already woken me up with the bug to go ...
What name two parking lots next to the ski stations?