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Andorra has seven parishes. Most newcomers choose between Andorra la Vella and Escaldes-Engordany (central, walkable, urban), La Massana and Ordino (green, family-friendly, near the western ski area), or Encamp and Canillo (closest to Grandvalira, quieter, better value). Sant Julià de Lòria, on the Spanish border, is the most affordable and the shortest drive toward Barcelona.
| Parish | Character | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Andorra la Vella | The capital — dense, shops, restaurants, offices, Europe’s highest capital at ~1,020 m | Living without a car; being in the centre of things |
| Escaldes-Engordany | Effectively contiguous with the capital; thermal spa (Caldea), upmarket apartments | Central living with a slightly calmer, more residential feel |
| La Massana | Green valley, family homes, gateway to the Pal Arinsal ski area | Families and skiers who still want a quick drive to the capital (~10 min) |
| Ordino | The quietest and most scenic; UNESCO biosphere; strong local school reputation | Families prioritising nature and community over convenience |
| Encamp | Working town, direct cable-car link into Grandvalira | Ski access and better property value; less polished |
| Canillo | Highest and most rural; right on the Grandvalira slopes | Serious skiers; people who want space and don’t mind the distance |
| Sant Julià de Lòria | On the Spanish border, lowest altitude, most affordable | Budget-conscious buyers and anyone who drives to Spain often |
Andorra is small — the whole country is about 45 minutes end to end — but winter traffic and snow make the difference between a 10-minute and a 30-minute drive matter. If you will work from home and value walkability, the Andorra la Vella–Escaldes axis is the obvious pick.
If ski access is the priority, look at Encamp and Canillo (Grandvalira) or La Massana (Pal Arinsal). Being able to ski before work is a real Andorran perk, and it depends heavily on which lift you live near.
La Massana and Ordino are the classic family choices — more houses with gardens, green space, and well-regarded schools — while still being close to the capital.
Sant Julià de Lòria is generally the most affordable parish and shortens the drive to Barcelona, which matters if you fly often. Encamp offers value in the ski corridor.
Supply is tight everywhere and prices have risen. As a newcomer you pay the 6% foreign real-estate investment tax on a first home, and if you are buying to support passive residency the unit must be worth more than €800,000. Rent first if you can — a season in the country tells you which valley actually suits you.
For walkable central living, Andorra la Vella or Escaldes-Engordany. For families and greenery, La Massana or Ordino. For ski access and value, Encamp or Canillo. For the lowest cost and the shortest drive to Spain, Sant Julià de Lòria.
Seven: Andorra la Vella, Escaldes-Engordany, La Massana, Ordino, Encamp, Canillo and Sant Julià de Lòria.
The Andorra la Vella–Escaldes-Engordany centre and La Massana are the most popular with international residents, balancing amenities, schools and access to the mountains.
Sant Julià de Lòria is generally the most affordable, followed by parts of Encamp.
Last reviewed: 3 September 2026. General information; the property market changes. Speak to our team about finding a home in Andorra.
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