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Ryanair Seat Selection Guide (2026)

Last updated: May 1, 2026

Quick Answer

Ryanair does not offer free seat selection. 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 Fees by Category

Seat TypeFee
Standard€3 - €15
Preferred€7 - €19
Extra Legroom€14 - €30
Exit RowMandatory for adults traveling with children under 12 (reduced fee of €4 for the adult, children get free reserved seats).

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.

Seat Map Availability

Available during the booking process and check-in.

How to Select Your Seat

  1. 1Start the booking process or log in to 'My Bookings'.
  2. 2Navigate to the seat selection step.
  3. 3View the seat map and select your preferred seat (Extra Legroom, Front Seats, or Standard).
  4. 4Pay the applicable fee.
  5. 5Your seat assignment will be confirmed on your boarding pass.

Expert Tips for the Best Seat

💡 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.

More Ryanair Guides

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Fees, sizes & limits
Online Check-In
Step-by-step guide
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Carry-On Rules
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