Money & currency

Money in Andorra

Updated 2026-08-16

Money & Currency
€

Euro (EUR)

Currency code: EUR

Practical Money Tips

Euro Without Being in the EU — Very Cashless

Andorra uses the euro (EUR) despite not being an EU member. No currency exchange is needed for eurozone travellers. The principality is one of the most cashless small countries in Europe — cards are accepted almost everywhere, including small ski lift kiosks and mountain restaurants. Apple Pay and Google Pay work widely in Andorra la Vella and at ski resorts.

ATMs Available in Andorra la Vella and Resorts

ATMs are plentiful in the capital Andorra la Vella and at major ski resorts (Grandvalira, Vallnord). If you plan to visit remote hiking areas or small villages in summer, carrying some cash is wise. The country is small enough that running out of cash is unlikely if you withdraw in the capital.

Visa and Mastercard Accepted Almost Everywhere

Card acceptance in Andorra is high — from large duty-free perfume shops and ski rental outlets to mid-size restaurants. Contactless payments are standard. Some very small local bars or village stalls may still prefer cash. Overall, Andorra is as card-friendly as France or Spain.

Low-Tax Shopping — Budget for Duty-Free Purchases

Andorra levies its own indirect tax, the IGI — the lowest standard rate in Europe, far below the VAT of neighbouring France or Spain — which is why tobacco, alcohol, electronics and perfume sell noticeably cheaper here. Many visitors come specifically to shop. Bring a card with no foreign transaction fees for larger purchases, and note that EU residents can bring only limited duty-free goods back across the French or Spanish border.

Note: Always check current exchange rates before traveling. Currency exchange is available at airports, banks, and authorized money changers.

Common Money Questions

What currency does Andorra use?

Andorra uses the euro (EUR) under a monetary agreement with the EU, even though it is not an EU member state. No currency exchange is needed for visitors from eurozone countries. Non-euro travellers should obtain euros before arrival or withdraw from ATMs in Andorra la Vella.

Can I pay with Apple Pay, Google Pay, or contactless in Andorra?

Yes — Apple Pay, Google Pay, and contactless card payments are widely accepted in Andorra, especially in Andorra la Vella, at ski resorts, and in tourist-facing shops. The principality is very modern in its payment infrastructure and contactless is the default at most retail points.

Is Andorra expensive to visit?

Andorra is known for being affordable, particularly for shopping (tobacco, alcohol, electronics, perfume, and ski gear are significantly cheaper than in France or Spain). Accommodation and food in tourist areas can be mid-range or above, especially during ski season. The main draw financially is the low-tax shopping.

Are there VAT refunds in Andorra?

Yes — Andorra's indirect tax (the IGI, Europe's lowest standard rate) can be reclaimed by non-resident visitors on qualifying purchases above a minimum spend, provided the goods leave the country within 30 days; check the current threshold and process with the retailer when you buy. Prices are already well below France or Spain even before the refund. Separately, EU residents re-entering France or Spain are subject to customs limits on how much duty-free goods they can import (around €300 by car and €430 by air).

Can I use euros from France or Spain directly in Andorra?

Yes, euros from any eurozone country are valid in Andorra. There is no exchange needed. Andorra issues its own euro coins (collectible but not widely available) but standard eurozone euro notes and coins circulate freely.

How does tipping work in Andorra?

Tipping is not a strong cultural expectation in Andorra. In restaurants, rounding up or leaving 5–10% for good service is appreciated. Andorra has a mix of Spanish, French, and Andorran cultural norms — all of which share a relaxed attitude to tipping compared to North America.

Are there any currency restrictions entering or leaving Andorra?

Andorra is not part of the EU customs union, so crossing into France or Spain counts as crossing an international border for customs purposes. EU residents should respect duty-free limits on goods (approx. €300–€430 depending on transport mode). There are no currency export restrictions, but carrying over €10,000 in cash requires declaration.

Do I need cash at Andorran ski resorts?

No — major ski resorts like Grandvalira and Vallnord accept cards, and most lift passes and ski equipment rentals can be paid by card or mobile wallet. Smaller on-slope restaurants or snack huts may prefer cash, so carrying €20–50 is useful for convenience. Lockers and parking machines may also require coins.

Entry rules, visa types and practical notes live on the Andorra overview.

This overview comes from Visaja's worldwide missions database (visaja.com), checked against official government sources; for binding answers, the mission itself always has the final word.