TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - Europe will witness its first total solar eclipse in 27 years on August 12, 2026. With the path of totality grazing the continent's extreme northwest and southwest, locations such as Iceland, Spain, and Greenland will have front-row seats to this rare celestial event.
According to Space.com, the moon's 182-mile-wide shadow will take roughly 96 minutes to cross the Earth. With the sun positioned about 26 degrees above the horizon at its peak, the 2026 eclipse will offer a maximum of 2 minutes and 18 seconds of totality. Notably, this event will come just a day before the peak of the Perseid meteor shower.
You may be wondering: where are the best places in Europe to view this awe-inspiring solar eclipse? Here is a curated list compiled from sources like Forbes and Insider Villas.
10 Best Places to See the 2026 Solar Eclipse
When it comes to the best places to witness a solar eclipse, Iceland's Blue Lagoon often ranks at the top of eclipse chasers’ bucket lists. Beyond that, a handful of locations in Spain and Greenland also promise exceptional views along the path of totality
1. Blue Lagoon, Iceland
Duration of Totality: 1 minute, 32 seconds
Set in a lava field, it’s understandable that the world-famous geothermal spa Blue Lagoon has firmly earned its spot on the best places to see a solar eclipse. You can soak in warm, milky blue waters as the sky dramatically darkens, promising a truly once-in-a-lifetime experience.
2. Ribera del Duero, Spain
Duration of Totality: 1 minute, 43 seconds
For the 2026 solar eclipse, Ribera del Duero will spotlight the Castle of Peñafiel as the centerpiece of its viewing event. Set against the backdrop of the region’s renowned vineyards, the experience pairs perfectly with a glass of its signature Tempranillo wine.
3. Svörtuloft Lighthouse, Iceland
Duration of Totality: 2 minutes, 10 seconds
Located on the windswept Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Svörtuloft Lighthouse is an isolated gem perched on the edge of a dramatic cliff. Offering one of the longest durations of totality in Iceland, its ocean backdrop and frequent seabird sightings make it a dream spot for nature lovers.
4. Scoresby Sund, Greenland
Duration of Totality: 1 minute, 45 seconds
Greenland has long been a coveted destination for eclipse chasers, and Scoresby Sund is no exception. As the world’s largest fjord system, this remote Arctic wonder offers a truly otherworldly vantage point for the 2026 solar eclipse. Cruise-based eclipse tours are already being planned for this remote region.
5. Olafsvik, Iceland
Duration of Totality: 2 minutes, 4 seconds
Olafsvik is another Icelandic hotspot along the path of totality. Viewing the solar eclipse from this charming fishing town lets you engage in a well-rounded tour, complemented by tips on the spectacular photography.
6. Gijón, Spain
Duration of Totality: 1 minute, 46 seconds
What’s more unique than combining Spain’s coastal charm with a rare celestial event? Gijón delivers just that. Thanks to its proximity to the centerline of totality, this vibrant seaside city also offers a relatively long duration of the eclipse.
7. Iceland Eclipse Festival, Iceland
Duration of Totality: 2 minutes, 7 seconds
Set against the dramatic landscapes of Iceland’s Snæfellsnes Peninsula, the Iceland Eclipse Festival blends science, music, and sky-watching into one unforgettable experience. The 2026 edition is expected to host over 100 speakers from diverse fields, from astronauts to scientists and artists. With the eclipse occurring just a day before the peak of the Perseid meteor shower, festivalgoers may also be treated to the added magic of shooting stars streaking across the night sky.
8. Bùðakirkja, Iceland
Duration of Totality: 1 minute, 57 seconds
This iconic black wooden church set against stark lava fields and mountains offers a hauntingly beautiful eclipse backdrop. Búðakirkja is a favorite among photographers and history buffs alike.
9. Peñíscola Castle, Spain
Duration of Totality: 1 minute, 39 seconds
Peñíscola Castle is truly a treasure trove for eclipse viewers. As the eclipse unfolds above the towering medieval fortress, it creates a dramatic stage for celestial magic.
10. Alto de la Agenanza, Spain
Duration of Totality: 1 minute, 37 seconds
Rounding out the list, Alto de la Agenanza offers a panoramic perspective for viewing the eclipse. Far from urban light pollution, this elevated viewpoint near Burgos promises clear skies and uninterrupted views.
With just a year to go, now’s the perfect time to start planning. But if you’re craving more celestial beauty, let’s take a look at the best places to stargaze in the world.
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