Cash or card at hostels in Andorra

From my recent trip in early spring, I learned that hostels in Andorra almost always prefer cash payments. Even when a hostel’s website mentions card acceptance, the front desk may ask for cash deposits and even request cash for incidentals. I experienced this firsthand in a cozy hostel in Escaldes-Engordany. Traveling in Andorra on a budget means planning to withdraw euros in advance. Always confirm payment methods before booking if you depend on a card. Carrying small bills makes transactions smoother and avoids any potential hassles at check-in.

I’ve experienced that many hostels in Andorra, especially in smaller towns, only accept cash. Even in Andorra la Vella, I found that the hostels I booked required cash upon arrival for both deposits and final payments. While some posited they’d accept cards, in practice, you rarely get a reliable terminal. For travelers in Andorra, I recommend withdrawing cash as soon as you arrive to avoid issues during check-in. A backup cash reserve ensures you can secure your accommodation without complications. It’s a small inconvenience that keeps your travel plans running smoothly.

I booked a few nights at boutique hostels in Andorra la Vella while working remotely, and one thing was clear: cash is king. Though online listings sometimes claim card payments are accepted, the reality is that most hostels prefer cash to simplify transactions. I encountered at least two instances where my credit card was declined at check-in, even for small amounts. Hostel payments in Andorra are unreliable for cards, so be sure to have euros ready. I now always withdraw a good sum upon arrival, making my stay stress-free. Plan ahead to avoid any awkward surprises during your trip.

During my recent trip to Andorra, I stayed in three different hostels and learned that most of them preferred cash payments. Even when a hostel online listed card acceptance, in-person payments were almost always made in euros. In Andorra la Vella, one hostel even insisted on cash for deposit fees. Hostels in Andorra can be hit-or-miss regarding card acceptance, so it’s best to have a reserve of cash to avoid last-minute hassles. I recommend asking in advance and always carrying enough euros in small denominations to cover your stay. This approach saved me awkward situations at check-in.