Solar Eclipse Italy – 12 August 2026

On 12 August 2026, Italy will experience the biggest solar eclipse in decades. With up to 97% of the Sun covered across the country, this evening eclipse will produce noticeable darkening and unusual atmospheric effects.

Will the Solar Eclipse Be Visible in Italy?

Yes. A partial solar eclipse will be visible across all of Italy on Wednesday, 12 August 2026.

In many parts of the country, over 90% of the Sun will be covered at peak making Italy, particularly in the north, a very strong viewing location to watch the Great European Solar Eclipse. However, southern parts of Italy will see less of the sun covered because the solar eclipse happens right at sunset for that area.

This will be the most significant solar eclipse visible from Italy since 1999.

How Much of the Sun Will Be Covered in Italy?

Approximate maximum coverage:

  • Milan – 92.4%

  • Pisa – 94%
  • Genoa – 93.6%
  • Turin – 93.4%
  • Florence – 92.1%
  • Verona – 91.7%
  • Venice – 91.3%
  • Alghero – 95%
  • Rome – 69.1%
  • Naples – 45.6%
  • Bari – 27.5%
  • Palermo – 23.3%

Even though Italy is not within the path of totality, this level of coverage particularly in Northern Italy still has significant and noticeable effects such as:

  • Noticeable darkening of the sky – you may notice streetlights turning on and it’ll be a dusky grey-blue so similar to deep twilight

  • A change in light quality – often described as muted or metallic

  • Cooler temperatures – you may notice the temperature drop slightly within a short period of time

  • Strong reactions from crowds at public viewing events

What Time Is the Eclipse in Italy?

Times vary slightly by location, but approximate national timing is:

  • Begins: 7:24PM 

  • Maximum Eclipse: Around 8:15PM

  • Ends: 8:46PM

Because the eclipse occurs during the evening in summer, most people will be able to observe it without work or school conflicts.

How Do I Safely View This Eclipse in Italy?

Even at 90% coverage, the remaining sunlight is still intense enough to cause permanent eye damage.

You must use solar eclipse glasses that comply with ISO 12312-2 and CE safety standards whenever any part of the Sun is visible. Only purchase from sellers that provide proof of ISO 12312-2 and CE Certification. Your eyesight is not worth risking because you only get one pair of eyes.

Do not attempt to view the eclipse through cameras, telescopes, binoculars or through anything else other than certified solar eclipse glasses.

Only during totality (which does not occur in Italy) it is safe to look without protection.

Why This Eclipse Is Special for Italy

  • It is the first major European solar eclipse in decades

  • Up to 97% coverage across most of the country

  • Occurs during the summer holiday period

  • Visible across the entire country

  • It is Italy's largest solar eclipse since 1999.

Italy will be an excellent choice as a viewing location in Europe, especially areas in the north of the country.

Best Places to Watch in Italy

For the best viewing experience, choose a location with a clear and unobstructed view of the western sky. Recommended Locations include:

  • Coastal areas, particularly along the Ligurian Sea in cities such as Genoa and Pisa

  • Open parks

  • Duomo di Milano

  • The Amalfi Coast
  • The Grand Canal in Venice
  • The Alps

Northern Italy and Northwestern Sardinia, will experience the highest coverage at 90-97% coverage. After Florence, the further south you go in Italy, the lower the maximum eclipse coverage you would be able to see at peak due to the solar eclipse happening right at sunset for southern Italy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this a total eclipse in Italy?

No. It is a deep partial eclipse with up to 97% coverage across most of the country. Italy is one of many countries close to the path of totality.

Is it worth watching?

Absolutely! This is the biggest solar eclipse for Italy and Europe in decades. The light becomes noticeably dimmer if you are in northern Italy, the Sun appears as a thin crescent, and temperatures may briefly drop. Those effects will happen even if it's cloudy. A solar eclipse of this scale will not be visible from Italy again for many decades.

What if it's rainy or cloudy?

Cloud cover can affect visibility of the Sun itself. If skies are heavily overcast, you may not be able to see the moon 'taking a bite' of the Sun.

However, even with partial cloud cover, eclipses usually remain visible through thinner cloud layers. In addition, wider atmospheric effects — such as dimmer daylight and a slight temperature drop — will still be noticeable even if the Sun covered by the clouds.

As with any outdoor astronomical event in Italy, checking the weather forecast in the days leading up to 12 August 2026 is recommended.

Can I use sunglasses?

No, regular sunglasses do not provide sufficient protection for viewing the Sun, even if you use many of them at once. You must use solar viewing glasses that comply with ISO 12312-2 and CE safety standards. 

Where Can I Get Solar Eclipse Glasses?

Only use solar eclipse glasses that clearly show compliance with ISO 12312-2 and CE safety standards.

Demand for eclipse glasses typically increases significantly in the weeks before major eclipses like this one so it is recommended to buy solar eclipse glasses well in advance. It is recommended to purchase from sellers that provide clear certification details and information.

You can view certified solar eclipse glasses available for Italy below:

View Certified Solar Eclipse Glasses For Italy