A unique spectacle at sunset
On Wednesday, August 12, 2026, Valencia will become one of the best places in the world to observe a total solar eclipse, an extraordinary astronomical phenomenon that will not be seen again for many years. As the Sun begins to disappear over the Mediterranean, the Moon will completely cover it, and the city will be plunged into darkness for one minute.
It will be the most spectacular eclipse of the 21st century in Europe, and Valencia will be one of the best places to witness it.
What is a total solar eclipse?
A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon aligns exactly between the Earth and the Sun, completely blocking the star. In Valencia, the eclipse will begin at 19:38, but the total phase of the eclipse will last approximately one minute, between 20:32 and 20:33, during which ambient light will dim, the temperature will drop slightly, and twilight sounds of birds and insects will emerge. Sounds magical, doesn’t it?
Best places to watch the eclipse
✓ Find a high location with a clear western horizon (the Sun will be very low, so any building or tree line in that direction could block it).
✓ Choose a rooftop without buildings obstructing the view toward the setting Sun.
✓ Malvarrosa Beach (between Séquia de la Cadena Street and Cabanyal lifeguard post no. 3) will be the official viewing point in the city of València, with parking areas and accessible entrances for people with reduced mobility.
✓ The Devesa forest and the l'Albufera lake will remain closed throughout 12 August..
✓ The CV-500 road will be closed to traffic from 6:00 p.m., except for residents with valid proof of residence.
✓ Other official viewing points in the province of València are Puzol Beach and Pico del Remedio in Utiel. You can find more details here.
How to safely view the eclipse
✓ Choose your viewing location in advance and arrive early, preferably using public transport.
✓ Never look directly at the Sun without protection; take this seriously as it can be very harmful to your eyes.
✓ Use certified eclipse glasses with ISO 12312-2 filters (regular sunglasses, X-rays, or homemade filters are not safe).
✓ If using cameras, phones, binoculars, or telescopes, make sure to add specific solar filters to the optical input.
✓ Check out all the recommendations for watching the eclipse safely here.
Use public transport
The best way to reach the best viewing spots is by public transport. EMT will reinforce its lines both in the days leading up to the event and on August 12th itself.
Thus, buses heading to Malvarrosa —18, 19, 31, 32, 92, 93, 95, 98, and 99— will increase their service, as will line 25, which goes to Pinedo, El Saler, and El Perelló, and line 24, which reaches El Palmar.
Which one will you take?
