When and Where to See the 2026 Solar Eclipse and How to Prepare

Article

The total solar eclipse on 12 August 2026 will be the first one visible from Spain in over a century. This is a historic astronomical event that everyone is talking about, and it is definitely something you won't want to miss.

At DoYouSpain, we have put together this complete guide so you know exactly when and where to watch the eclipse, how to protect your eyes safely, and all the practical tips you need to make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime experience.

What Is a Total Solar Eclipse and Why Is This One Historic?

A total solar eclipse happens when the Moon passes directly between the Sun and the Earth, completely blocking out the sunlight and turning day into night for a few minutes. The last time something like this was visible from mainland Spain was way back in 1905. That is why people across Europe and astronomy enthusiasts worldwide are counting down the days.

The eclipse on 12 August is just the beginning of a cycle. Spain is lucky enough to experience three eclipses in a row over the next three consecutive years.

• 2026: A total solar eclipse across northern and central Spain, as well as the Balearic Islands.
• 2027: A total solar eclipse sweeping across southern Spain.
• 2028: An annular solar eclipse. Where the Moon doesn't completely cover the Sun, leaving a bright 'ring of fire'.

When and What Time Can You See the 2026 Solar Eclipse?

Here are the key details you need to plan your day:

• When is the 2026 solar eclipse? It will take place on Wednesday, 12 August 2026.
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• What time is the solar eclipse in Spain? Total darkness will occur late in the evening, between 20:20 and 20:35 (mainland time), depending on your exact location.
• How long does the total solar eclipse last? Totality will only last between 1 and 2 minutes.

Where Can You See the 2026 Solar Eclipse in Spain?

While the event can be seen from cities like Madrid or Barcelona, it will only be a partial eclipse there, meaning the sky will not go completely dark. The totality of the eclipse will cross northern and central-eastern Spain diagonally, so your best bet is to travel to the exact areas in this line.

Since it happens late in the evening, the sun will be very low on the horizon. Because of this, the best place to watch the solar eclipse will be an elevated spot with clear skies, away from artificial lights, and without any mountains or buildings blocking the view.

Hiring a car with DoYouSpain gives you the flexibility you need to avoid any unexpected cloud cover and reach clear viewpoints that are not accessible by public transport.

The Best Areas in Spain to See the Eclipse: Galicia, Asturias, the Valencian Community, and the Balearic Islands

Although the event will cross a large part of the country, we have selected the best places to see the eclipse based on their visibility.

• Galicia and Asturias: The first places to see the eclipse. The Sun will be higher, but there is a risk of clouds.
• Castilla y Leon , La Rioja, and Aragon: The best areas for clear skies are cities like Burgos or Zaragoza.
• Valencian Community and Balearic Islands: The eclipse will happen just as the sun sets over the Mediterranean. It is important to get to higher ground so nothing blocks your view.

2026 Solar Eclipse FAQs & Practical Tips

Heavy traffic is expected on the roads, so make sure to plan ahead to avoid any unexpected delays on your journey.

How to Look for Clear Skies to See the Eclipse?

Check the weather forecast from early morning on the same day, 12 August.

If the forecast gets worse in your area, move quickly! Depending on public transport can make you miss it, so a hire car will be your best bet.

How to Use Eclipse Glasses Safely?

Always put them on before looking at the Sun, and look away before taking them off.

You can only remove the glasses during the minute of totality (when the sun is 100% covered), but our advice is to keep them on.

Where to Buy Certified Glasses for the Solar Eclipse?

To avoid damaging your eyes, it is essential that your glasses have official ISO 12312-2 certification. You can buy solar eclipse glasses from places like:

• Opticians: The safest option and most recommended by professionals.
• Amazon and MediaMarkt: They have budget-friendly multi-packs, but make sure to check that they include the official certificate.

Why Book Your Hotel and Trip in Advance?

Demand in the areas where the eclipse will be fully visible is incredibly high, and many hotels are already fully booked. On top of that, it falls on the exact same night as the Perseids (the meteor shower), which will bring in even more visitors.

If you want to travel on a budget around Spain this summer, you need to get planning straight away. Book your accommodation and hire your car with DoYouSpain in advance to secure your spot and the best price.

What Clothes to Wear to the Solar Eclipse?

Even though it is August, during the peak of the eclipse, the temperature can drop suddenly by several degrees in just a few minutes. If you are on higher ground, you’ll get quite chilly, so keep a jacket or a hoodie in the boot just to be safe.

Why Hire a Car with DoYouSpain to Watch the Solar Eclipse

Having your own vehicle is key to making sure you don't miss this historic event, as most of the best viewpoints are out of the way and aren't reached by public transport. Plus, we know that finding the perfect hire car isn't always easy, but at DoYouSpain, we compare rates in real time to guarantee you the lowest price on the market, even in the middle of August.

Do you have any questions about your booking? We are here to help 24/7 through our Virtual Assistant, the Customer Service Area, or by calling +34 964 83 09 95.