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Andorra TuristicFun facts about Andorra

✨ Fun facts about Andorra

Andorra — country in the Pyrenees, Europe's 2nd smallest state, VAT-free until 2013.

  • Andorra is Europe's 6th smallest country (468 km²). Independent since 1278 — world's oldest continuously independent state.
  • Andorra has 2 co-princes Bishop of Urgell (Spain) + President of France. World's unique diarchy for 745 years.
  • Capital Andorra la Vella — Europe's highest capital (1023 m above sea level). Pyrenees around: ski resorts in Soldeu, Pal-Arinsal, Grandvalia.
  • Andorra has no army nor airport Defense by France + Spain. Nearest airports: Barcelona (3 h), Toulouse (2 h).
  • Official language: Catalan the only country in the world where Catalan is the sole official language. Plus 80% of residents speak Spanish/French.
  • Andorra without VAT until 2013 hence famous shopping. Today IGI (4.5% — Europe's lowest VAT). Cheap electronics, perfumes, alcohol, tobacco.
  • Caldea — Southwestern Europe's largest thermal spa 6000 m², water 70°C from natural source. Architect: Jean-Michel Ruols.
  • 80,000 inhabitants on 468 km² Biggest tourists: Spaniards (3.5 million annually) + French (2 million). GDP per capita: $42,000.
  • Andorra uses euro despite not being EU member Monetary agreement with EU 2011. Earlier peseta + French franc.
  • Pyrenean trails — 60 lakes and 130 peaks >2500 m GR-11 and GR-7 — Europe's most famous paths. Tour de France passes 1× per decade.

Sources: Department of Statistics Andorra, Visit Andorra.

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