Ryanair Seat Selection (2026) — Fees, Free Options & How to Choose
Seat selection is not free. If you choose not to pay for a seat, one will be randomly allocated to you during check-in.
Seat Selection Fees
| Seat Type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Standard | €3 - €15 |
| Preferred | €7 - €19 |
| Extra Legroom | €14 - €30 |
| Exit Row | Mandatory for adults traveling with children under 12 (reduced fee of €4 for the adult, children get free reserved seats). |
Free Seat Selection
No — Seat selection is not free. If you choose not to pay for a seat, one will be randomly allocated to you during check-in.
When Can You Select a Seat?
Seats can be selected at the time of booking or added later via 'Manage Booking' up to 2 hours before departure.
How to Select Your Seat
- Start the booking process or log in to 'My Bookings'.
- Navigate to the seat selection step.
- View the seat map and select your preferred seat (Extra Legroom, Front Seats, or Standard).
- Pay the applicable fee.
- Your seat assignment will be confirmed on your boarding pass.
Tips for the Best Seats
- If traveling with children under 12, one adult must purchase a reserved seat, and up to 4 children get free reserved seats next to them.
- Check-in opens 60 days before departure if you purchase a seat, but only 24 hours before if you opt for random allocation.
- Randomly allocated seats often split up groups, so pay for seats if sitting together is important.
- Extra legroom seats are located in rows 1, 2 (D,E,F), and 16-17.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is seat selection free on Ryanair?
- Seat selection is not free. If you choose not to pay for a seat, one will be randomly allocated to you during check-in.
- How much does Ryanair charge for seat selection?
- Standard: €3 - €15. Preferred: €7 - €19. Extra Legroom: €14 - €30.
- When can I select a seat on Ryanair?
- Seats can be selected at the time of booking or added later via 'Manage Booking' up to 2 hours before departure.
- What happens if I don't select a seat on Ryanair?
- You'll be assigned a seat at check-in, typically a middle seat in the back of the plane.