On August 12, 2026, Spain will be one of the locations to experience the total solar eclipse. This rare event offers a perfect excuse to gather friends and family for an unforgettable celestial celebration.
The moon will align perfectly with the sun, casting a midday twilight across cities from A Coruña to Zaragoza and even the Balearic islands.
As the day briefly turns to night, stars will appear, and the temperature will drop, all while the sun's corona blazes in the background. Whether you're a seasoned eclipse chaser or a curious spectator, this event promises a spectacular mix of science and wonder. And the best is, given the summer weather in Spain, the visibility chances are extremely high.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to be part of this incredible event. Where will you be when the sky goes dark?
The best spots to watch the 2026 eclipse in Spain
You need to consider various aspects to find the best spot to watch the eclipse in Spain. First, the sun will be just 12° above the horizon at the eclipse's peak, so it's better to find a high or flat place without visual obstructions, like a building, a hill or a mountain.
Therefore, the Balearic Islands and the open plains in inland Spain are your best bets due to their higher chances of an unobstructed view. Heading north, you're less likely to encounter cloud cover, especially if you stay south of the mountains.
The central parts of Spain, like the Ebro River Basin and the Meseta Central, are known for their clear skies and minimal cloud cover, making cities like Zaragoza prime viewing locations.
The importance of planning ahead
Planning ahead for the eclipse is crucial, especially since this event overlaps with the peak of Spanish summer when tourists flock to the region. The arrival of both locals and international visitors eager to catch a glimpse of the eclipse will surely lead to crowded destinations and strained resources.
Due to high demand, accommodation options can be either fully booked or exorbitantly priced. However, this scenario can easily be avoided with some forethought and early booking.
Planning your stay and transport and getting your eclipse viewing protection can make your eclipse experience much more enjoyable.
Safety
It's crucial to prioritize safety by using proper eye protection to watch a solar eclipse. Directly viewing the sun without specialized protection can cause severe eye damage and temporary or permanent vision deficiency.
For the 2026 eclipse in Spain, make sure you're equipped with eclipse glasses that meet the international safety standard ISO 12312-2. Unlike regular sunglasses, which cannot filter out the intense rays of the sun, eclipse glasses are designed to block out 99.999% of sunlight, providing a safe way to observe the eclipse phases directly.
Be cautious of counterfeit glasses, which might not offer adequate protection. Purchase your glasses from reputable vendors or astronomical societies who guarantee their safety standards. Testing your glasses before the event is also recommended; they should be free of scratches or damages, as even a small defect can compromise their effectiveness.
Remember, the only safe time to view the eclipse without glasses is during the brief period of totality, when the sun is completely covered by the moon. For the partial phases before and after, eclipse glasses are essential.