Things To Do
in Ordino
Ordino is a tranquil Andorran parish in the northern valley, framed by dramatic Pyrenean peaks. Its cobbled streets, stone houses, and venerable museums give it a distinctly village-like charm away from the bigger resort crowds. The area serves as a gateway to the Sorteny Valley and offers easy access to outdoor adventures year-round.
With traditional cuisine, family-friendly hikes, and a quiet cultural scene, Ordino makes for a relaxed yet active base in Andorra.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your adventure in Ordino with a scenic hike through the breathtaking landscapes of the Valls del Comapedrosa Natural Park. Encounter stunning vistas and diverse wildlife as you walk along well-marked trails that lead you deeper into nature's embrace. Don’t forget to pack a picnic to enjoy amidst the serene surroundings.
After a refreshing morning, return to the village for lunch at a quaint local café, sampling traditional Andorran dishes. Spend your afternoon visiting the beautiful Casa d'Areny-Plandolit, a historical museum that showcases the rich cultural heritage of Ordino. Engage with interactive exhibits and learn about the region's history and customs.
As the sun sets, take a leisurely stroll through the picturesque streets of Ordino, admiring the charming stone architecture. Dinner could be enjoyed at a local restaurant featuring delectable mountain cuisine, enhancing your taste of Andorra. Cap off your day by sipping on a local digestif as you reflect on the day’s adventures.
Start your day with a visit to the Museu Nacional de l'Automòbil, where you can witness an impressive collection of vintage cars and learn about the evolution of automobile technology. The museum's engaging displays offer an intriguing insight into the relationship between cars and Andorran culture. Afterward, wander around the quaint village capturing photos of art installations scattered throughout.
Enjoy a leisurely lunch in one of Ordino’s bistros before attending a local artisan workshop, where you can try your hand at traditional Andorran crafts such as pottery or woodworking. Connect with local artisans who are passionate about sharing their skills and culture. The afternoon offers a unique opportunity to create a personalized souvenir to take home.
In the evening, enjoy a gourmet dining experience at a high-end restaurant, where locally sourced ingredients make for a delightful culinary journey. After dinner, head to a local pub for some live music, immersing yourself in the local nightlife scene. The vibrant atmosphere and friendly locals create a perfect end to an inspiring day.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee | $2-4 |
| 🍷Glass of local wine | $5-8 |
| 🧀Basic groceries (milk, bread) | $3-6 |
| 🚗Taxi start fare | $3-5 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning mountain scenery and peaceful village atmosphere
- Excellent access to Sorteny Valley and outdoor activities
- Strong culinary traditions and local produce
- Compact town with walkable center and easy day trips
- Limited nightlife and fewer big-city amenities in-Ordino
- Some services concentrated in larger towns like Andorra la Vella
- High season can mean crowded trails and higher prices
- Weather in the mountains can be unpredictable
- "Bon dia" - Good morning
- "Si us plau" - Please
- "Gràcies" - Thank you
- "Què costa això?" - How much does this cost?
- "On és el lavabo?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Parleu anglès?" - Do you speak English?
- "Sí / No" - Yes / No
- "Ajuda" - Help
Places to Visit in Ordino
Visit one of these nice places.
A 19th-century mansion with a picturesque façade and interiors that capture historic Andorra; a classic backdrop for architectural photography.
A charming parish church with simple lines and interior details that photograph well in morning or golden-hour light.
Alpine scenery, wildflowers, and crystal-clear lakes; ideal for landscape photography and panoramic shots.
Various vantage points around Ordino offer sweeping valley and mountain views, especially at sunset.
Food in Ordino
Ordino Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A comforting mash of potatoes and cabbage, often with bits of pork; a staple in mountain villages.
Must-Try!
A hearty Catalan stew with meats, vegetables, and sometimes chickpeas; perfect for cooler days.
Wild boar stew braised with wine and herbs; a robust, seasonal dish enjoyed in mountain restaurants.
Savory flatbread topped with pork cracklings; a popular tapa-like snack in local eateries.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market in the town center selling cheeses, cured meats, honey, apples, and other regional produce.
Casual bites near the church square offering grilled vegetables, small plates, and pastry treats during market days.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Acknowledge others with a polite 'Bon dia' (good day) or 'Bona tarda' (good afternoon); a handshake is common in formal settings.
Catalan is the official language; we also see Spanish and French widely understood in tourist areas.
Dress neatly when visiting churches and cultural sites; ask before taking photos in private spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Ordino
Ensure a smooth experience
Service charges are sometimes included; if not, a tip of 5-10% is customary in restaurants and cafés for good service. Small tips for luggage handlers or guides are appreciated but not required.
Cash and major credit/debit cards are widely accepted; contactless payments are common. ATMs are readily available in Ordino and nearby towns.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Long daylight hours, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities; expect highs in the 70s °F (20-25°C) with possible afternoon storms at higher elevations.
Clear air and golden mountain scenery; temperatures begin to cool; good time for harvest-related foods and quieter trails.
Snowy conditions with cold days; ski season at nearby Ordino Arcalís; roads may be snowy—carry chains and check forecasts.
Mild and lush as flowers return; rain showers common; great for waterfall photography and early-season hikes.
Ordino at Night
Hiking in Ordino
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Network of trails through alpine meadows, lakes, and rugged terrain with varied difficulty levels.
Scenic routes offering panoramic views of the Pyrenees and the valley floor; suitable for most hikers on clear days.
Airports
How to reach Ordino by plane.
Major international hub; about 3-4 hours by road/bus from Ordino with transfer options to Andorra via Pas de la Casa or other routes.
Large European airport; convenient for seasonal flights and connections to Andorra via road trips through the Pyrenees.
Smaller but useful for many low-cost carriers; access to Andorra via overland routes through France.
Regional airport with fewer services; may require longer drive to reach Andorra.
Very small regional airport near the Andorran border; seasonal and limited service but convenient when available.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A mix of Andorrans, Spanish, Portuguese, and French nationals, with Catalan culture at the core and a growing seasonal workforce in tourism.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Skiing and snowboarding at nearby Ordino Arcalís, offering varied runs and mountain scenery.
Wide range of trails in Sorteny and surrounding valleys, from easy strolls to challenging high-altitude routes.
Road cycling and mountain biking routes through scenic Pyrenean terrain.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ordino.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available in most eateries. Look for dishes like grilled vegetables, salads, cheeses, and mushroom-based plates; request meat-free versions of traditional stews or ask for vegetable-forward specials when possible.