Solar Eclipse Portugal – 12 August 2026

On 12 August 2026, Portugal will experience the biggest solar eclipse in decades. With over 92% of the Sun covered across the country, this evening eclipse will produce noticeable darkening and unusual atmospheric effects. A tiny strip in the northeast of the country will experience a total solar eclipse, meaning the Sun will be completely covered and daytime will briefly turn into night.

Will the Solar Eclipse Be Visible in Portugal?

Yes. A total solar eclipse will be visible in a tiny part of Portugal on Wednesday, 12 August 2026. The rest of the country will experience a near-total solar eclipse.

In many parts of the country, 92% to 99% of the Sun will be covered at peak making Portugal a very strong viewing location to watch the Great European Solar Eclipse.

In areas within the path of totality, 100% of the Sun will be covered for approximately fifteen to thirty seconds.

This will be the most significant solar eclipse visible from Portugal in decades.

How Much of the Sun Will Be Covered in Portugal?

Approximate maximum coverage:

  • Rio de Onor – 100% (Totality)

  • Guadramil – 100% (Totality)
  • Bragança – 99.9%
  • Vila Real – 99%
  • Braga – 98.9%
  • Guarda – 98.4%
  • Porto – 98.3%
  • Aveiro – 97.6%
  • Lisbon – 94.5%
  • Faro – 92.7%

In areas experiencing totality, observers can expect:

  • Rapid darkening of the sky from daylight to near-night conditions

  • A visible solar corona surrounding the moon during totality

  • A noticeable temperature drop of around 5°C

  • Strong emotional reactions from the crowds

Even though the vast majority of Portugal is not within the path of totality, this level of coverage 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 Portugal?

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

  • Begins: 6:40PM 

  • Maximum Eclipse: Around 7:35PM

  • Ends: 8:30PM

As 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 Portugal?

Even at 99% 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 the brief period of totality — when the Sun is completely covered — is it safe to look at the eclipse without solar eclipse glasses.

Best Places to Watch in Portugal

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

  • The Atlantic coast

  • Coastal cities such as Lisbon and Porto particularly by the river or at the beach

  • Castles such as the Pena Palace in Sintra

  • Open Parks

  • Organised public viewing events

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth watching?

Absolutely! The visual difference between 80% and 90% coverage is substantial. The sky will go dark, you can watch the moon 'take a bite' of the Sun, and temperatures will briefly drop dramatically. A solar eclipse of this scale is huge for Portugal for both locals and tourists.

Should I travel to the path of totality?

If you are already planning a trip to Portugal this August or you would prefer to watch a total solar eclipse than a partial one, then travelling to Portugal may be a no-brainer for you. However, totality only happens in the extreme northeast of the country but the whole country particularly northern areas have extremely high solar eclipse coverage.

Locations in or near the path of totality are expected to be highly crowded so it is essential to book accommodation and plan transportation well in advance as prices may spike due to increased demand, especially closer to the eclipse date.

Even if you are not travelling to the path of totality, you can still get spectacular views of a significant partial solar eclipse which hits most of Europe which is why this solar eclipse is so significant.

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 Portugal below:

View Certified Solar Eclipse Glasses For Portugal