Andorra La Vella Sights and Landmarks Guide, Andorra

Andorra la Vella, the capital of the tiny co-principality of Andorra is known mainly for its fine brandies and for its status of tax-haven, but it has many things to offer tourists who choose to visit it. The picturesque surroundings of the city, like the peaks of the Pyrenees, which can be seen from the city centre, are tourist magnet. Thanks to the city’s excellent transport links to Barcelona and Toulouse, there is a steady stream of Spanish and French tourists, and much more than that. Tourism is one of the pillars of the country’s economy, so visitors are guaranteed to get a treat of intriguing historical and cultural sights. This Andorra la Vella Sights Guide will recommend you some attractions that are guaranteed to keep you entertained for the duration of your holiday in this charming city.

Andorra la Vella Sights - Notable Buildings

The Church of Sant Esteve is possibly the oldest church in the entire city. Built in the 12th century, this beautiful Romanesque building is located in the old part of the city. The church can be visited daily, but tours are available only in July and August. The Church of Sant Andreu is another impressive Romanesque construction dating from the 12th century, which harbors an interesting legend about its wooden statue of Jesus, which is supposed to have floated up the Garonne River, by a miracle. The building of the Parliament is a relatively modern building on the background of the old town. The rooftop of the building hosts a little garden, and it offers a great birds-eye view of the old part of the city. Another major tourist attraction is the Margineda Bridge, a medieval construction that is in perfect condition even nowadays. The bridge crosses the Valira River and has an impressive length of 33 meters.

Andorra la Vella Sights - Museums

The only museum in Andorra la Vella is located in the city’s cultural centre, in the Government exhibition hall. However, there are several interesting museums near the city. Andorra is a small country with a small capital, so there’s no surprise that the city has entire museums dedicated to tiny things. The Ordino Museum of Miniatures and the Engordany Model Museum are two of the most exciting museums in Andorra. The Ordino Museum hosts many curiosities, such as miniature statutes, texts written of strand of hair and landscapes engraved on the head of the needle. The Matrioshka Russian Doll Museum is quite a sight, with its hundreds of exquisite handmade dolls. If you like vintage cars, this Andorra la Vella Sights Guide recommends that you visit the National Car Museum at Encamp.