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Published on February 6, 2026

Andorran Language Basics: Essential Catalan Phrases for Travelers

Venturing into Andorra promises breathtaking mountain vistas, world-class skiing, and duty-free shopping. While many locals speak Spanish, French, and English, the official language is Catalan, a vibrant romance tongue unique to the region. Learning a few basic Catalan phrases will not only enhance your travel experience but also show genuine respect for the local culture.

Why Speak Catalan in Andorra?

Andorra, a sovereign microstate nestled in the Pyrenees, proudly maintains Catalan as its sole official language. While you'll find Spanish and French widely understood due to the country's proximity to Spain and France, making an effort to speak Catalan is a gesture deeply appreciated by locals. It opens doors to more authentic interactions, helps you navigate with greater ease, and provides a richer cultural immersion.

Fun Fact:Catalan is a distinct Romance language, not a dialect of Spanish or French. It's spoken by over 10 million people, primarily in Catalonia (Spain), the Valencian Community (Spain), the Balearic Islands (Spain), and of course, Andorra.

The Essentials: Greetings and Politeness

Start your linguistic journey with these fundamental phrases. Politeness goes a long way!

  • Hello:Hola(OH-lah) orBon dia(BON DEE-ah) for "Good day"
  • Good afternoon/evening:Bona tarda(BOH-nah TAR-dah)
  • Good night:Bona nit(BOH-nah NEET)
  • Goodbye:Adéu(ah-DEH-oo)
  • Please:Si us plau(see oos PLOW)
  • Thank you:Gràcies(GRAH-see-es)
  • You're welcome:De res(duh RES)
  • Excuse me / Sorry:Disculpi(dees-KOOL-pee) orPerdó(per-DOH)
  • Yes:Sí(SEE)
  • No:No(NOH)

Remember that a warm "Bon dia" when entering a shop or restaurant, and a "Gràcies" when leaving, will always be well-received.

Getting Around: Directions and Transport

Navigating Andorra's stunning landscapes, from the bustling capital of Andorra la Vella to tranquil mountain villages, is easier with a few key phrases.

  • Where is...?On és...?(on ES)
  • How do I get to...?Com puc anar a...?(kom pook ah-NAR ah)
  • Left:Esquerra(es-KEH-rrah)
  • Right:Dreta(DREH-tah)
  • Straight ahead:Tot recte(tot REK-teh)
  • Bus stop:Parada d'autobús(pah-RAH-dah dah-oo-toh-BOOS)
  • Train station:Estació de tren(es-tah-see-OH duh TREN) -Note: Andorra does not have a train station, but this is useful if traveling from Spain or France by train.
  • Ticket:Bitllet(beet-LYET)

Asking for directions to natural wonders like the Madriu-Perafita-Claror Valley or specific cultural sites such as La Cortinada will be smoother if you can phrase your question in Catalan.

Dining Out: Food and Drink Phrases

Andorran cuisine offers a delightful blend of mountain and Mediterranean influences. Use these phrases to order with confidence and enjoy your meals.

  • I would like...:Voldria...(vol-DREE-ah)
  • The bill, please:El compte, si us plau(el KOMP-teh, see oos PLOW)
  • Water:Aigua(EYE-gwah)
  • Coffee:Cafè(kah-FEH)
  • Beer:Cervesa(ser-VEH-zah)
  • Wine:Vi(VEE)
  • Bread:Pa(PAH)
  • Delicious:Deliciós(deh-lee-see-OS)
  • Vegetarian:Vegetarià/Vegetariana(veh-jeh-tah-ree-AH / veh-jeh-tah-ree-AH-nah)
  • Do you have...?Tenen...?(TEH-nen)

Whether you're enjoying a hearty mountain meal in Pas de la Casa or unwinding after a day at Caldea, these phrases will help you communicate your order and preferences.

Shopping and Services

Andorra is renowned for its duty-free shopping. Make your retail therapy even more rewarding with some Catalan phrases.

  • How much is it?:Quant costa?(kwant KOS-tah)
  • I want this:Vull això(vool ee-SHOH)
  • Do you have...?Tenen...?(TEH-nen)
  • Pharmacy:Farmàcia(far-MAH-see-ah)
  • Bank:Banc(BANK)
  • Market:Mercat(mer-KAT)
  • Open:Obert(oh-BERT)
  • Closed:Tancat(tan-KAT)

From buying souvenirs to asking about opening times for attractions like Naturlandia or finding a local artisan shop near The Nobility of Time sculpture, these words will be invaluable.

Emergencies and Asking for Help

While we hope you won't need them, knowing a few emergency phrases is always wise.

  • Help!:Ajuda!(ah-JOO-dah)
  • Police:Policia(poh-lee-SEE-ah)
  • Doctor:Metge(MET-jeh)
  • Hospital:Hospital(os-pee-TAL)
  • I don't understand:No ho entenc(noh oo en-TENC)
  • Do you speak English?:Parles anglès?(PAR-les an-GLES)
  • Can you help me?:Em pots ajudar?(em pots ah-joo-DAR)

Beyond the Phrases: Cultural Tips

Beyond memorizing words, understanding a bit about Andorran culture can greatly enhance your interactions.

  1. Always Start with a Greeting:It's customary to greet shopkeepers, restaurant staff, and even people you pass on a hiking trail (especially in places like Parc Natural de la Vall de Sorteny). A simple "Bon dia" or "Bona tarda" works wonders.
  2. Respect Personal Space:Andorrans tend to appreciate a bit more personal space in conversations than some other cultures.
  3. Politeness is Key:Using "si us plau" and "gràcies" frequently is a sign of good manners.
  4. Patience:While many Andorrans are multilingual, be patient if there's a language barrier. A smile and a willingness to try will always be appreciated.

Embracing the local language, even just a few phrases, demonstrates a genuine interest in the country and its people. You'll often find that even a small effort is met with warmth and a greater willingness to assist you.

Pronunciation Pointers

Catalan pronunciation can be tricky, but here are a few simple tips:

  • 'LL'(as inbitllet): Sounds like the 'lli' in 'million' or the 'y' in 'yes'.
  • 'NY'(as inCatalunya): Sounds like the 'ñ' in Spanish 'cañón' or the 'ni' in 'onion'.
  • 'Ç'(as inFrança): Sounds like the 's' in 'soft'.
  • 'G'before 'e' or 'i' (as ingent- people): Sounds like the 'j' in 'jam'. Otherwise, it's a hard 'g' as in 'go'.
  • 'J'(as inplatja- beach): Sounds like the 'j' in 'jam'.
  • Vowel Sounds:Catalan has open and closed vowel sounds, which can be subtle. Don't worry too much about perfection; focus on clear articulation.

Embrace the Experience!

Learning a new language, even just a handful of phrases, is an enriching part of any travel adventure. In Andorra, it's a direct route to connecting with the heart of its unique culture. Don't be shy – locals will appreciate your effort, and you might even make a new friend. So, pack your bags, practice your "Bon dia," and prepare for an unforgettable trip to Andorra!