Almería Airport (LEI/LEAM): Your Essential Gateway to the Costa de Almería
Almería Airport (LEI/LEAM) stands as the primary international gateway to the stunning southeastern region of Andalusia, Spain. Located conveniently just 9 km east of the Almería city centre (36° 50′ 39” N, 2° 22′ 19” W), the airport is managed by Aena and serves as a vital connection point for millions of tourists drawn to the province’s diverse landscapes.
As a crucial hub for the region, LEI provides swift access to the golden, protected beaches of the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, the historic grandeur of the city’s Alcazaba fortress, and the unique, cinematic terrain of the Tabernas Desert. In 2024, the airport solidified its importance by handling over 787,000 passengers, demonstrating its ongoing recovery and growth as a key European destination.
Terminal Facilities and Essential Services
Almería Airport operates with a single, modern terminal building designed to manage both domestic and international traffic efficiently. Passengers can expect a smooth and comfortable experience supported by a comprehensive range of amenities:
- Amenities: Passengers benefit from free, unlimited Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. Retail options include duty-free shops and local souvenir outlets, alongside various cafés, snack bars, and restaurants offering local Spanish fare.
- Accessibility: The terminal is fully equipped with facilities and support services for passengers with reduced mobility (PRM).
- Currency: All transactions are conducted in EUR (€).
- Lost & Found: For inquiries regarding baggage or lost property within the terminal, the relevant contact number is generally +34 913 211 000.
Ground Transportation and Parking Options
Connecting Almería Airport to the city and surrounding resorts is straightforward, thanks to several reliable and affordable transportation options:
- Bus: The reliable L30 bus line provides a direct connection from the airport to the city centre, with a journey time of approximately 25 minutes. Tickets are highly economical, typically costing around €1.05.
- Taxi: Taxis offer a swift and comfortable option. A ride to the city centre generally takes about 15 minutes, with an estimated fare of €15–20. Taxi ranks are located immediately outside the terminal exit.
- Car Rental: Exploring the vast and beautiful Almería province is best done by car. On-site car rental services are conveniently located in the arrivals hall, featuring major international brands such as Hertz, Avis, Sixt, Europcar, and Enterprise.
- Parking: LEI offers both short-term (P1 General) and long-term parking facilities, catering to all travel durations. Daily parking rates typically start from approximately 10 EUR, with discounts available for extended stays.
Airlines, Destinations, and 2025/2026 Route Developments
Almería Airport is serviced by a dynamic mix of major European legacy carriers and low-cost airlines, connecting the region to key domestic and international hubs.
- Key Airlines: Major operators at LEI include Iberia, Vueling, British Airways, Ryanair, Jet2, and Smart Wings.
- Top Destinations: Consistent year-round and seasonal routes link Almería to important cities like London (Gatwick, Luton, Southend), Madrid, Barcelona, Brussels, and Manchester.
2025/2026 Route Enhancements and New Connections:
The airport continues to expand its reach, with several new and increased routes announced for the 2025 and 2026 seasons, enhancing connectivity, especially during the peak summer months:
- UK Market Expansion: Jet2 and Ryanair are set to increase capacity and frequency on their crucial UK services, ensuring excellent links to multiple British cities.
- New European Routes: Scheduled additions for 2025 include new international connections to destinations such as Budapest (Hungary), marking a strategic step into Central European markets.
- Domestic Links: Increased frequencies on core domestic routes to Madrid, Melilla, and Seville are bolstering internal travel. Furthermore, new connecting routes to regions like Cantabria in Northern Spain are planned, significantly improving accessibility within the peninsula.
- Seasonal Services: Seasonal favourites, including flights to Palma de Mallorca and increased flights to Barcelona via Vueling, remain essential for summer holiday traffic.
Exploring Almería: Local Attractions and Travel Tips
Almería Airport’s location is perfect for launching your Andalusian adventure. Within a short drive, you can immerse yourself in the region’s unique blend of history and nature:
- Historic Almería: Don’t miss the city’s iconic landmarks, including the mighty Alcazaba of Almería, a spectacular Arab fortress, and the fortified Almería Cathedral.
- Natural Wonders: The airport is the closest major entry point to the Cabo de Gata-Níjar Natural Park, renowned for its volcanic cliffs, pristine beaches (like Playa de los Muertos), and clear waters ideal for diving.
- Cinematic Landscapes: Head inland to the Tabernas Desert, Europe’s only desert, famous as a filming location for countless “Spaghetti Westerns.”
Travel Tip: Almería Airport experiences its highest traffic volume between June and September. It is highly recommended to book car rentals and accommodation well in advance if travelling during the peak summer season.