Nestled in the Pyrenees mountains between Spain and France, Andorra is home to some of the most majestic views and quaint villages in Europe.
Despite being the 6th smallest nation in the EU, it has a population of 77,315 and receives thousands of ex-pats every year. Many are drawn to Andorra for its low tax rates but end up staying for its scenic mountains and high standard of living instead.
If you’re thinking of moving to the principality then you should know that Andorra has a comfortable mix of lifestyles. In Andorra la Vella you’ll find a comfortable yet bustling city life; in Arinsal and Soldeu you’ll find après ski resorts and scenic landscapes. The choice is yours.
In this article, we’ll help you decide where to move to by showing you the many towns and villages that make our country great.
Andorra La Vella (Capital)
Area: 12km²
Elevation: 1,023m
Population: 20,430
Andorra la Vella is the capital of Andorra and the host of all its government institutions. As the most densely populated city, with over 20,000 residents Andorra la Vella is the closest thing to a modern city you’ll find, which is why most ex-pats choose to live here. However, if you’re moving from a large city such as London or Paris, you’ll find it quite peaceful and uneventful.
Things to Look Out For
- Andorra La Vella is the largest and most developed city in the country, with access to modern banking facilities, international schools, supermarkets, shopping malls, government offices, 5-star restaurants, art displays, and more.
- It has all the modern luxuries of a European city where everything is within walking distance.
- If you do however need public transport, the links are excellent and you won’t need a car to live in the city.
- Many events take place throughout the year to keep the community together.
- Andorra is a duty-free shopping hub so expect the city to get crowded during the festive season and weekends when shoppers stream in from France and Spain.
- Andorra La Vella mostly has apartments but some chalets can be found on the north side.
Canillo: One of the Best Andorran Villages
Area: 121km²
Elevation: 1,526m
Population: 3,292
Canillo is a charming village in Andorra with only 3,292 permanent residents which makes it quiet, calm, and serene. Located in the northwest of Andorra, it is the biggest parish by size in the principality.
This scenic village is surrounded by stunning landscapes and lush greenery on all sides. Within the town centre, you’ll find all the necessary facilities.
Things to Look Out For
- Canillo is one of the entries to the large Grandvalira ski zone, so if you fancy some skiing and snow sports, gondola access is available.
- The town may be thinly populated but there are a constant influx of tourists to keep things lively
- Watch out for the traffic to-and-fo from Andorra la Vella, especially during peak hours
- The villages of Soldeu and El Tarter are nearby and easily accessible.
Best Places in Canillo
Those looking to make the move to Canillo should check out Prats, Ransol, and the Incles Valley too. Property in the valley isn’t the cheapest, but the gorgeous views more than make up for it.
Aside from those, El Forn is close to the town centre and another spot worth checking out.
Encamp
Area: 74km²
Elevation: 1,238m
Population: 11,223
Encamp is the third-largest parish in Andorra and the main transit location when you leave Andorra La Vella on the way to the large Grandvalira ski resort. It is only 10 km away from the capital and close to the town of Pas De La Casa, also belonging to the Encamp parish.
Things to Look Out For
- The main advantage of Encamp is that it has the most affordable real estate in the principality and a lower cost of living.
- If you want a combination of a relaxed life in Andorra without being too isolated and enjoy low costs of living, Encamp could be the place for you.
- Since Encamp is more populated than other parishes, it can feel a bit busy and is always bustling with activity
- From schools and banks to supermarkets and even a gym, there are plenty of facilities for residents at cheaper prices in comparison to other parishes
Best Places in Encamp
When looking for a place to live in Andorra, sunlight plays a major factor. Aside from lighting, it helps reduce your heating bills and keeps the area warm in the snowy months of winter. Vila is one of the places in Encamp that get plenty of sunlight. It also boasts of great roads making it accessible during winter.
If you’re looking for something quieter Els Cortals d’Encamp is another option. The roads, however, can be challenging to drive during winter.
Escaldes Engordany
Area: 30km²
Elevation: 1,050m
Population: 15,853
Escaldes Engordany or “Les Escaldes” is the 2nd most populated town and parish in Andorra with over 15,000 residents.
It is located 1.6 km north of Andorra La Vella and is one of the most developed towns in the country, with the most expensive real estate.
Things to Look Out For
- Because of its geographical location, you can either choose to live near the bustling city of Andorra la Vella or the quiet mountainside
- You’ll find plenty of shops, electronic stores, farmhouses, and even spa resorts here
- Lots of events are held throughout the year in Escaldes to keep you and your family entertained
- The city is home to local, parks, and lakes, and you’ll even spot UNESCO-protected scenery here.
- If you live near the city, expect to see some heavy traffic during peak hours and tourism season
Best Places in Escaldes Engordany
Properties in Els Vilars are popular but we recommend taking a look near Engolasters too. Here you’ll find some of the most tranquil and beautiful spots.
Since many houses here are still undiscovered, the prices are reasonable and as a bonus — you’re only a few minutes away from the city.
La Massana
Area: 65km²
Elevation: 1,240m
Population: 7,211
La Massana is a town of 7,200 residents located at the western edge of Andorra. It is host to the highest mountain peak in Andorra — Alto de Camapedrosa, at 2,943 meters above sea level. Its peak offers the best views of Andorra’s vistas and pinnacles.
Things to Look Out For
- The city has everything you need, from restaurants and schools to supermarkets and transport links too.
- La Massana is packed with outdoor activities such as mountain biking, hiking, horseback riding, and rock climbing which make for great weekend adventures.
- Because of its close proximity to France, it attracts many tourists.
- La Massana is also a popular ski destination and you can find a number of ski schools and resorts here
- Due to its popularity with tourists, you’ll find a big English speaking community here.
Best Places in La Massana
Arinsal is a popular village close to La Massana with an English speaking community. The village centre has all the necessary facilities and offers a quiet ambience. You’ll find houses in Carrer Coma del Colat that get plenty of sunlight.
Ordino
Area: 85km²
Elevation: 1,300m
Population: 3,066
Ordino is known among Andorran residents as the prettiest town in the principality with a population of 3,000.
It is situated at a high altitude of 1,301 meters above sea level and is located in the north of the principality near France.
Things to Look Out For
- Ordino is characterized by charming chalets with wooden balconies and stale rooftops. The houses are covered in snow for half the year and it has an inviting vibe.
- Here you’ll find access to the French and Andorran schooling systems, restaurants, bakeries, and gyms.
- Ordino is also the nightlife destination of the country with numerous nightclubs and bars.
- Located to the north of Ordino, the Ordino-Arcalis ski resort is popular for winter sports like skiing, snowboarding, and more.
- On the downside, there are no supermarkets available here.
Best Places in Ordino
Ordino is one of the coldest regions in Andorra and something to keep in mind while choosing property here.
El Serrat is where you’ll find reasonable housing options but be prepared for an extremely cold winter. You should also consider La Cortinada which has a community golf course and is situated to the north of Ordino.
There’s also Segudet which is quiet and serene but the houses won’t be cheap here.
Sant Julia de Loria
Area: 61km²
Elevation: 908m
Population: 8,022
Sant Julià de Lòria is located in the south of the principality near Spain. It is the fourth largest parish in the principality and it has the warmest weather in the state.
Things to Look Out For
- Sant Julià de Lòria is host to the University of Andorra where most young Andorrans take up undergraduate studies.
- Because of its proximity to Spain, you’ll always be close to the nearest airport in Barcelona
- The town has a number of large malls in the area, which means you won’t have to travel far to buy groceries and other essentials.
- It also has excellent cycling paths due to its low elevation
- Naturlandia is an adventure park located here with activities for all ages
Best Places in Sant Julia de Loria
Bixessari is a quiet town situated in a valley next to Riu d’Os which hosts a number of real estate options. Summers here are much cooler since the town is close to the river.
For reasonable housing options, check out areas near Auvinya. You’ll be surrounded by plenty of sunlight and serene landscapes.
Ready to Move to Andorra?
Moving to a different country can be a long, complicated process, but the first step will always be finding a place that suits your needs long term. Now that you know which parish suits you best, we can take care of the rest.
Reach out to find out more about your residency options, migration advice and real estate listings in the principality.
