What actually happens to travelers here.
Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date, bring your prescription medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter, and verify your travel insurance covers international medical care + evacuation.
The system.
System: High-quality healthcare system funded through social security contributions. One main hospital (Hospital Nostra Senyora de Meritxell) and several clinics. Uses 112 but is NOT an EU/EEA member.
Quality: ★★★★☆ Very Good
Excellent healthcare for a microstate. Hospital Nostra Senyora de Meritxell is modern and well-equipped. For highly specialized procedures, patients are transferred to Barcelona or Toulouse. Many doctors trained in Spain or France.
Andorra is known for affordable dental care and some cosmetic procedures. Prices are lower than France while maintaining high quality standards.
Where to actually go.
Main and only hospital. Modern facility with emergency department. English spoken by many staff. Handles ski injuries frequently.
Finding what you need.
Access: Easy
Hours: Pharmacies open 9am-1pm and 3pm-7pm weekdays. Rotating 24-hour duty pharmacy (farmacia de guardia) system.
Prescription rules: Prescription required for antibiotics and most medications. EU/Spanish/French prescriptions generally accepted. Pharmacists can advise on OTC alternatives.
Well-stocked pharmacies throughout the country. Staff typically speak Catalan, Spanish, and French. Duty pharmacy info posted on all pharmacy doors. Medications may be cheaper than in France or Spain.
Available over the counter
- paracetamol
- ibuprofen
- antihistamines
- antacids
- cold remedies
- cough suppressants
- sunscreen
- throat lozenges
Useful pharmacy phrases
- Necessito una cosa per al mal de cap
- Tinc mal de panxa
- Tinc al·lèrgies
- On és la farmàcia més propera?
- Necessito un metge
Chains you'll see
- Farmàcia Central — Independent pharmacy (Andorra la Vella center)
- Farmàcia Internacional — Independent pharmacy (Escaldes-Engordany, near Caldea)
Common OTC medications by local brand
- paracetamol/acetaminophen → Paracetamol / Gelocatil
Widely available. Same brands as Spain. - ibuprofen → Ibuprofè / Nurofen
Widely available OTC. - loperamide (anti-diarrheal) → Fortasec / Imodium
Available OTC at all pharmacies.
What you can't bring in.
Carry prescriptions and a doctor's letter for all medications. Documentation in Catalan, Spanish, French, or English is understood. Keep medications in original packaging.
Deep-dive guides for this country's restrictions: CBD · Opioids
Illegal in Andorra despite proximity to more liberal neighbors.
Carry prescription and doctor's letter. Keep in original packaging.
If something breaks.
Availability: Several private dental clinics with modern equipment. Popular for dental tourism from France.
Cost range: $50-200 USD for basic procedures, 30-50% less than France
High-quality dental care at lower prices than neighboring countries. Many dentists trained in Spain or France.
What you actually need.
🛡️ Recommended
Average cost: $20-40/week
European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is NOT valid in Andorra — it is not in the EU/EEA. Private travel insurance is strongly recommended. Ski/winter sports coverage is essential if visiting for skiing.
Filing a claim
Hospital and clinics accept major credit cards. Obtain itemized receipts with diagnosis codes. EHIC is NOT valid — you must pay and claim from private insurance. Keep all documentation for reimbursement.
What it costs out of pocket.
| Service | Cost |
|---|---|
| Doctor visit (private) | $40-80 |
| ER visit | $100-300 |
| Overnight hospital stay | $200-500 |
| Ambulance | $100-300 |
Costs are moderate by European standards. Lower than France, comparable to Spain. Payment expected at time of service for tourists.
When local won't cut it.
Primary destination: Barcelona, Spain
Secondary destination: Toulouse, France
Typical cost band: $3,000-15,000
Common providers: Global Rescue, MedJet, International SOS
Barcelona is about 2.5 hours by road. Helicopter evacuation available for ski injuries and emergencies. Transfer to Spanish or French hospitals is routine for complex cases.
What to get done before you fly.
Recommended
- Routine vaccinations
- Tick-borne encephalitis (if hiking in forested areas)
No special vaccinations needed. Standard European health precautions apply. Altitude sickness possible at higher elevations for sensitive individuals.
The Bali belly prevention guide.
Tap water: Safe to drink — Tap water is safe to drink throughout Andorra. Mountain spring water is excellent quality.
Food safety
Food safety standards are high, comparable to France and Spain. Enjoy local cuisine without concern. Restaurant hygiene is well-regulated.
In crisis abroad.
English / international line: Crisis Text Line: text HOME to 741741 (US-based)
English-speaking therapists: Limited but available. Many therapists speak Spanish, French, and some English.
Mental health services available but limited for a small country. Telehealth may be the best option for English-speaking tourists needing support.
International crisis support: findahelpline.com — crisis lines in 130+ countries.
Getting around with mobility needs.
Andorra has been improving accessibility but the mountainous terrain presents challenges.
Hospital accessibility: Hospital is fully wheelchair accessible with modern facilities.
Accessible transport: Public buses have some accessibility features. Steep streets in old town areas are difficult for wheelchair users.
Ski resorts have adapted skiing programs. Request accessible rooms in advance. Cable cars and gondolas may have accessibility limitations.
Entry rules + local status.
Entry requirements: No COVID testing or vaccination requirements for entry as of 2026.
Mask policy: No mask mandates. May be requested in healthcare facilities.
Testing availability: Testing available at Hospital Nostra Senyora de Meritxell and private clinics.
Follow the same precautions as for France/Spain travel.
Andorra travel health, answered.
What we checked.
- US Department of State — travel advisory for this country
- CDC Travelers' Health
- WHO Europe
- Andorra Ministry of Health
- US Embassy (via Spain)