Why you shouldn't take a day trip to Andorra from Barcelona

Summary

In this video, the creator takes their brother on a trip to Andorra, a tiny principality nestled between France and Spain. They explore the country's natural beauty, including scenic bridges, lookout points, and waterfalls, while also highlighting its unique cultural aspects, such as the Tamaro character game. While many visit Andorra for shopping due to its low taxes, the video emphasizes that a quick day trip from Barcelona doesn't do the country justice. The creator recommends spending more time to fully experience Andorra's landscapes and attractions, showcasing the rich, peaceful environment that extends beyond its urban center.

Takeaways

• 😀 Andorra is a small, landlocked country between France and Spain, with a population of about 880,000 people.
• 😀 It’s only a 3-hour drive from Barcelona, making it an accessible destination for visitors.
• 😀 While Andorra uses the Euro, it lies outside the EU and offers a tax-free shopping experience, especially for tobacco and liquor.
• 😀 Most people only visit Andorra for a day trip to check off another country or for cheaper shopping, missing the beauty of its nature.
• 😀 Andorra is home to 20 museums, the most per square meter outside of the Vatican, with rich cultural experiences throughout the country.
• 😀 The country is technically a principality, ruled by the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell in Spain.
• 😀 The capital city, Andorra la Vella, is the highest capital in Europe and is a common stop, but it’s best to venture outside for a more complete experience.
• 😀 Andorra has a unique Tamaro treasure hunt game, where visitors can collect stamps from seven different Tamaro characters, each protecting a parish from evil trolls.
• 😀 Nature lovers will appreciate that 92% of Andorra is covered in forests, mountains, and lakes, offering endless opportunities for exploration.
• 😀 A quick day trip from Barcelona might not give you enough time to fully appreciate Andorra’s natural beauty and attractions. A longer stay is recommended.
• 😀 The best way to explore Andorra is by renting a car or taking public transport, allowing you to reach more remote areas and enjoy the country’s natural wonders.

Q & A

What makes Andorra a unique destination despite its small size?

Andorra is a small landlocked country between France and Spain with a population of about 880,000. It offers unique experiences such as stunning natural landscapes, a mix of cultural heritage, and tax-free shopping, despite its small size.

Why is Andorra often visited for shopping, and is it worth traveling there just for the deals?

Andorra is a popular shopping destination because it has a low VAT rate (4.5%) compared to Spain (21%). While it offers cheaper prices on items like tobacco and liquor, it might not be worth traveling specifically for shopping, unless purchasing in bulk.

How long does it take to travel from Barcelona to Andorra, and why is a day trip not ideal?

It takes about three hours by bus from Barcelona to Andorra. A day trip isn't ideal because the long bus ride (six hours round trip) leaves limited time for exploring, especially since most people only visit the capital.

What is the significance of Andorra's 20 museums, and what can be found in the capital?

Andorra has 20 museums, the most per square meter outside the Vatican. In the capital, Andorra la Vella, visitors can explore the old city center, enjoy various art installations like sculptures, and learn about the country’s rich cultural history.

What is unique about Andorra's political system?

Andorra is a principality, and its head of state is shared between the President of France and the Bishop of Urgell in Spain. The country also has a prime minister who handles day-to-day affairs.

What are the best activities to do in Andorra if you have more than one day to explore?

For a longer stay, visitors should venture beyond the capital and explore natural wonders like the bridge at Cano, scenic viewpoints, waterfalls, and participate in the Tamaro character game, which adds an extra layer of fun for both children and adults.

What makes the Canillo bridge experience special, and who would enjoy it the most?

The Canillo bridge is a 600-meter long suspension bridge offering breathtaking views over a valley. It’s a thrilling experience, especially for those who enjoy heights, but it might not be suitable for people afraid of heights.

What is the Tamaro character game, and how does it contribute to the Andorran experience?

The Tamaro game is a kid-friendly activity where participants find carved wooden characters representing guardians of different parishes. By offering stones and collecting stamps, players can earn a small prize at the tourist office, adding an interactive, playful element to the trip.

Why is Andorra considered a great destination for nature lovers?

With 92% of its land covered in forests, lakes, and valleys, Andorra offers incredible natural beauty. Visitors can explore these areas by foot, car, or bus to experience the serene landscape and enjoy outdoor activities away from the urban center.

Can you complete the Tamaro character quest in a single visit to Andorra?

It’s possible to complete the Tamaro quest in a visit, but it requires time to explore different regions of the country. The characters are scattered across various parishes, and travelers may need to return on future visits to complete the challenge.