Aena VIP Lounge

Opposite gates C45–C46, this is Alicante’s only Schengen lounge

Aena VIP Lounge at ALC (Sala Ifach / Costa Blanca) is the single airport-run option in the NAT Schengen area, sitting downstairs via the escalator opposite gates C45–C46. If your boarding pass or app mentions “Aena VIP,” it almost always points to this one space, so don’t waste time hunting for something better hidden elsewhere in the terminal.

The lounge runs roughly 05:00–23:00, lining up with the first and last banks of departures out of Alicante. It’s airside in NAT after security, so you clear checks first, then walk to the C gates and drop down a level. Signage can be patchy; once you see C45/C46, slow down and look for the small VIP sign over the escalator.

Access is through airline status or card programs, plus paid entry sold on the day or via apps, generally priced in the typical 30–40 EUR range depending on channel. There’s no separate business vs first section, just one shared room run by AENA staff, and they usually scan both boarding pass and digital lounge pass at the desk.

Food runs strongest at breakfast, roughly 05:00–10:00, when you’ll usually find mini frankfurter sausages, baked beans, scrambled egg and pastries on the hot line. Later in the day the offering drops back to sandwiches, salads, breads, cold cuts and cheese, which reviewers like, while the rest of the hot options often feel thin.

Drinks are self-serve, with standard coffee machines, soft drinks, bottled water and a basic alcohol lineup including beer and a couple of spirits. This is not a cocktail bar: think simple pour-yourself gin and tonic before a Ryanair or easyJet hop, not a long sit with fancy mixes.

Space-wise, the room is reasonably large for a single-lounge airport, with plenty of regular armchairs and standard tables rather than nap pods or recliners. Several frequent flyers call it “rarely very busy,” so most use it as quiet seating near C45–C46 instead of fighting for terminal chairs at peak times.

Facilities stay simple: Wi‑Fi, power outlets scattered around, basic work tables, but no showers at all, which catches some people out on hot summer days. Restrooms sit inside the lounge, so at least you’re not trekking back into the terminal once you’ve settled.

Watch out for the food drop-off after breakfast and for the slightly hidden entrance down the escalator by C45/C46. Practical play: eat a real meal in the main terminal, then head down here 40–50 minutes before boarding for a quieter seat, a drink, and Wi‑Fi close to your gate.