This year, Europe is preparing to witness a total solar eclipse, the first visible from the mainland in nearly three decades. On August 12, 2026, countries including Spain and Iceland will experience the celestial event, during which the moon completely obscures the sun.
Spain: Prime Locations for Eclipse Viewing
Navarre
Navarre, a typically tranquil region in northern Spain known for its peaceful villages and expansive countryside, will offer excellent views of the eclipse this summer. Visitors can explore the Bardenas Reales, a natural park and UNESCO Biosphere Reserve, where Castildetierra is expected to provide clear sightlines, according to Space.com. Nearby La Rioja, particularly the Alfaro area, is also a great vantage point. Both locations will experience the eclipse at 8:28 PM for approximately one minute.
Mallorca and Menorca
The Balearic Islands, including Mallorca and Menorca, are among the best spots to view the eclipse, with preparations underway for a busy summer season. The region offers some of the clearest and most accessible vantage points, thanks to clear summer skies, warm temperatures, and easy access from the UK. Vintage Travel provides properties across the Balearics ideal for viewing the totality, such as Villa Torralba d’en Salort in Menorca and Villa Joanaina in Mallorca. Flights from the UK to Palma start from £32 on Skyscanner.
Ibiza
Ibiza will witness the first total solar eclipse on the island in 121 years. The party hotspot expects a surge of visitors attracted by the promise of the 'greatest ever sunset.' Package holiday company On the Beach offers trips guaranteeing views of the Ibiza sunset, with packages starting from £500 per person, including flights, three nights' accommodation, and breakfast. Hotels are chosen for their rooftop bars, ensuring a spectacular view of the eclipse at 8:32 PM. Flights from London to Ibiza start from £21 each way.
Iceland: Unique Eclipse Experiences
Snæfellsnes Peninsula
Iceland's Snæfellsnes peninsula, though potentially cloudy in August, will enjoy the eclipse for two minutes and nine seconds. Inside Snæfellsjökull National Park, numerous spots offer good views around 5:45 PM. Climbing to Saxhóll Crater in Hellissandur is an option, though changing weather may affect visibility.
Reykjavík
Iceland's capital, Reykjavík, is another accessible location, with parts of the city in the path of totality, including Reykjavík Domestic Airport, Faxaflói Bay, the Reykjanes Peninsula, and the nearby Blue Lagoon. Additionally, Björk will perform at a one-day festival in Víðistaðatún, Hafnarfjörður, to mark the occasion. Flights from London to Reykjavík start from £71.
Greenland: Stable Skies for Optimal Viewing
Scoresby Sund in Greenland will experience up to two minutes and 17 seconds of totality, with the advantage of stable skies. For the best chances, consider a specialist expedition cruise, such as HX Expeditions' 17-day all-inclusive cruise from Oslo to Reykjavík.
Portugal: Scenic and Historic Viewing Spots
Montesinho Natural Park and Bragança
Portugal's Montesinho Natural Park offers complete visibility of the eclipse, according to the National Solar Observatory. In the nearby village of Guadramil, in Bragança, the eclipse will be even more intense. The walled medieval city of Bragança, with its 12th-century castle and traditional charm, is worth visiting regardless. Surrounded by beautiful scenery, the nearby national park provides sweeping views of valleys and mountains.
