Total Solar Eclipse of 12 August 2026: Spain Viewing Guide

On 12 August 2026 a total solar eclipse will be visible from Greenland, Iceland and northern Spain. It will be the first total eclipse on the Iberian Peninsula in more than a century, so huge crowds are expected. Many visitors from the UK, Ireland and the rest of Europe are already planning a trip to Spain to see it.

Where it will be total

The path of totality enters the north-west of the peninsula and sweeps east across the country. Cities inside it include León, Burgos, Oviedo, Zaragoza and Valencia, as well as Palma de Mallorca. Outside that band the eclipse is only partial, though still impressive. If you are travelling from abroad, aim for a spot well inside the path rather than near its edge, where totality is shorter.

What time

Totality arrives at sunset, at about 20:30 Spanish mainland time (CEST), and lasts between one and two minutes depending on your exact position. The closer you are to the centre of the path, the longer the darkness lasts.

How to choose your spot

• Look for a clear horizon towards the west-north-west: the Sun will be very low, and a building or a hill could block it.
• Arrive hours early; roads and car parks will fill up fast, especially if you fly in and rent a car.
• Bring water, something warm for when the sun goes down, and spare batteries.
• Check the cloud forecast and have a plan B a few kilometres away.

Watching it safely

Except during totality itself, you should never look at the Sun without glasses certified to ISO 12312-2. We explain it in detail in our guide on how to watch a solar eclipse safely.

A keepsake with your place and your date

At Eclipse Snatcher we are preparing T-shirts, hoodies and mugs with the design of your eclipse: León cathedral, Burgos cathedral or the landmark of your choice, together with the coordinates and the date. Join the waitlist and we will let you know when the shop opens.