How to View the Solar Eclipse in 2026
Get Ready for a Life Changing Experience
In less than a year, the skies will deliver one of nature’s rarest spectacles: a total solar eclipse stretching across parts of Europe, the Arctic, and North America. For a few moments, day turns to night as the moon passes directly between earth and sun, creating an inspiring solar phenomena.
You have options when it comes to where and how to experience it: on land, where local culture and landscapes frame the event, or at sea, where a wide open horizon grants you an uninterrupted view. Any single location experiences a total solar eclipse only once every 327 years and early planning secures your front row seat to the celestial ballet.
Mark your calendar, block off a week or two: August 12, 2026 will be a date you will never forget. We’ll book your eclipse travel plans, so every detail is taken care of while you fully experience this once-in-a-lifetime event — just let us know where and how you want to witness it.
Visit Iceland
Pictured here: Blue Lagoon Retreat
For many travelers, Iceland will be one of the most iconic destinations to experience the 2026 eclipse. The path of totality passes across western Iceland, where the eclipse will reach its peak around 5:45 pm. Depending on where you position yourself, totality will last just over two minutes.
Reykjavík, the capital, is accessible and easy to get to. It’s a lively, progressive city where modern design and Icelandic folklore coexist. From its cafes, street art, and mesmerizing Hallgrímskirkja church to stories of the Huldufólk (“hidden people”), Reykjavík sets the stage for the marvel ahead.
The Reykjanes Peninsula, only a short drive from Reykjavík, gives convenient viewing paired with otherworldly landscapes. Steaming mud pools at Gunnuhver and the famed Blue Lagoon for starters. For travelers who seek longer totality duration and fewer crowds, the Westfjords is the place to be. Here, dramatic cliffs meet the sea and are home to puffin colonies and hiking trails.
The Snæfellsnes Peninsula delivers yet another spectacular vantage point, with volcanic craters, black sand beaches like Djúpalónssandur, plus coastal cliffs.
While the entire country will see at least a partial eclipse, only the western regions will fall directly in the path of totality. Because many of the best viewing spots are remote, we recommend reaching out as soon as possible for the best experience and to secure your spot with a private guide.
Visit Northern Spain
Pictured here: Zaragoza Cathedral , Zaragoza, Spain
Northern Spain is famous for its dynamic culture. Choosing Spain to view the solar eclipse means great food, centuries of medieval architecture and several cities to choose from.
The path of totality will pass right through this region, and while the eclipse itself will last just over a minute, the setting makes it unforgettable. Because it peaks around 8:30 pm, you’ll watch the sun vanish into darkness just as golden hour begins to settle in.
One of the best spots to be is Alcañiz, a quiet town that sits along the centerline. Its castle overlooks the town and adds a sense of drama to the moment. It’s also close to the city of Zaragoza — the next city on our list for places to see the eclipse. Zaragoza boasts historic landmarks and plenty to do. Spend the day wandering through ornate cathedrals, Moorish palaces, and cafés before joining the locals to witness the eclipse.
And for those who love the coast, Castellón is the perfect spot. The city is already planning special eclipse events at its Planetarium, there’s plenty of opportunity to make a trip here worthwhile. Think sandy beaches, Gothic architecture in the old town, and evenings that linger long into the night with tapas and wine by the sea. As an added bonus, Castellón is close to the city of Valencia, famous for its coveted paella and where the dish originated.
See The Solar Eclipse by Cruise
Pictured here: National Graphic Explorer from Lindblad Expeditions
For travelers who want the chance to combine the eclipse with a multi-country itinerary, a cruise provides a luxurious and seamless advantage to lock in an uninterrupted view along the path of totality. Several expedition-style ships are already planning special sailings timed to this event.
Atlas Ocean Voyages will operate a seven-day trip from Barcelona to Monte Carlo aboard the intimate, 196-guest World Traveller.
Valencia’s Gothic city center, the nightlife of Ibiza, Palma de Mallorca’s seaside promenades, and the lavender-scented streets of southern France are just a few highlights to expect. On eclipse day, the captain will maneuver the ship to view complete totality at sea before continuing toward Monte Carlo.
HX (formerly Hurtigruten Expeditions) is marking the 130th anniversary of its first Arctic voyage with a 17-day itinerary through Svalbard, Greenland, and Iceland.
The MS Spitsbergen will sail into Scoresby Sound in Greenland (one of the world’s largest fjord systems) where guests will watch the eclipse surrounded by icebergs and wilderness. This voyage couples rare wildlife encounters with vast Arctic exploration.
Lindblad Expeditions offers yet another remarkable option: a 15-day voyage aboard the National Geographic Explorer.
Departing Reykjavík, this route moves through Iceland’s Westfjords before continuing to southern Greenland. Guests may hike beneath hanging glaciers, visit historic Norse sites like Erik the Red’s farm, and mingle with local communities in Qaqortoq. The eclipse itself will be viewed in Greenland, followed by a crossing to Canada’s Labrador coast and an exploration of Newfoundland. With opportunities for kayaking, photography, and even polar bear sightings, there’s much to see and do.
Your Journey to the eclipse begins here
Photo by: Graham Copeland
Ready to wander our way? The 2026 solar eclipse is a once-in-a-lifetime event and seeing it shouldn’t be left to chance. Work with us to secure your place and let us craft an unforgettable experience!
