AIRPORT GUIDE: Seville, what passengers can expect

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Seville Airport, also known as San Pablo Airport, serves as the main gateway to western Andalusia, handling over eight million passengers annually. Located 10 kilometres northeast of Seville’s city centre, this medium-sized airport connects to 76 destinations across Europe and North Africa, with airlines like Ryanair, Vueling, Iberia, and BA operating regular flights. Its modern terminal, inspired by Andalusian culture with elements like orange trees and arched vaults, offers a welcoming experience for travellers exploring the region’s rich heritage.

Accessing the airport is convenient, with several transport options linking to Seville’s city centre. The EA bus line, operated by Tussam, runs every 15-30 minutes from 04:30 to 01:00, connecting the airport to Plaza de Armas bus station via Santa Justa train station in about 35 minutes for €3.20. Tickets are available from the driver or at ticket machines in the arrivals hall.

Taxis, stationed outside the arrivals area, offer a 15- to 20-minute ride for a fixed €24.98 daytime fare, rising to €34.79 at night or during holidays. Private transfers, bookable through services like Welcome Pickups, provide a hassle-free alternative, while car rentals from Avis, Hertz, and Enterprise are available in the arrivals area. Drivers benefit from the airport’s proximity to the A-4 motorway, with general parking a two-minute walk from the terminal and long-term parking six minutes away, starting at €1.80 per hour. Pre-booking parking or checking bus schedules is advisable during peak summer months.

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The airport’s single terminal, renovated in 2022, spans two levels with 42 check-in counters, 19 gates, and five airbridges. Arrivals are handled on the ground floor, while departures, including security and boarding areas, are on the first floor. Clear signage in English and Spanish ensures easy navigation, with short walking distances, though some gates may take up to 15 minutes to reach.

Security checks typically take 10-20 minutes, but queues can form during peak periods from March to June, so arriving two hours early for domestic flights or three for international is recommended. The absence of self-check-in machines means passengers rely on desk check-ins, which can slow during busy times.

Delays are less frequent than at larger hubs, thanks to the airport’s manageable size and efficient baggage delivery. However, high passenger volumes in summer or during holidays can lead to congestion at check-in, security, or passport control for non-Schengen flights. Weather issues like heavy rain or fog may occasionally disrupt operations, and air traffic control constraints across Europe can cause minor delays. On-time performance is generally reliable, particularly for Vueling’s frequent Barcelona routes, but checking flight status via the Aena app or airline websites is advised. Passenger feedback notes occasional gate changes, so staying alert is wise.

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Dining options cater to a range of tastes, with Abades de Sevilla Plaza in the departures area serving pizza, pasta, and grilled meats from 05:00 until the last flight. Burger King, open from 09:00 to 22:00, offers fast food, while ABQ. provides a la carte and self-service meals from 05:00 to 21:00, with its restaurant open from 12:30 to 17:00. Landside, a café serves coffee and snacks. Retail includes a duty-free shop airside with perfumes, alcohol, and local products, alongside stores like Parfois for accessories and Relay for magazines and snacks. While not extensive, these options suit most travellers’ needs.

Facilities enhance the experience, with free Wi-Fi via the “AIRPORT FREE WIFI AENA” network, accessible via email or social media login. Two ATMs (Santander 4B) and a pharmacy are located in the main hall, with baggage wrapping and trolleys available. Accessibility is prioritised, with ramps, lifts, and dedicated assistance bookable 48 hours in advance. The Azahar VIP Lounge, opposite Gate 3, offers hot buffets, workspaces, and high-speed Wi-Fi for €34, open from 06:00 to 22:00. A children’s play area is airside, and a terrace provides runway views. Restrooms have mixed reviews, with some noting cleanliness issues, so carrying tissues is prudent. The airport closes from 01:30 to 04:30, but boarding passes allow early entry. Nearby hotels like ibis Budget Sevilla Aeropuerto, a 10-minute drive away, cater to layovers.

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Connections are efficient for a point-to-point airport, with minimum connection times of 40 minutes for domestic and 60 minutes for international flights. The compact terminal simplifies transfers, though non-Schengen passengers may need to clear passport control, requiring extra time. Most connections route through hubs like Barcelona or Madrid, so checking flight schedules is key.

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