Solar Eclipse 2026 in Bilbao — 5 Best Spots to Watch It

On August 12, 2026, Bilbao will witness one of the rarest celestial events in modern history — a total solar eclipse. The last time a total solar eclipse crossed Spain was over 100 years ago. The partial eclipse begins at 19:31, totality — complete darkness — starts at 20:27 and lasts approximately 1 minute 49 seconds. The Sun will be low on the western horizon, creating a breathtaking scene: a dark disc, the ocean, and a sunset sky all at once.
If you're planning to spend more than one day in Bilbao and the Basque Country — and you absolutely should — check out our 5-Day Basque Country Travel Guide. Day-by-day itinerary, best restaurants, hidden gems and Google Maps inside. Written by a local expert who lives and guides here.
Now, back to the eclipse. The key condition for a great view is a clear, open horizon facing west. Here are the 5 best spots in Bilbao.
1. Artxanda ViewpointThe classic panoramic spot above Bilbao. You can get there by funicular straight from the city center or by car. The views over the entire city are spectacular — which is exactly why it will be extremely crowded. Arrive at least 2–3 hours early or you won't find a good position.
Tip: get there early, bring food and wine, and turn the wait into a proper pre-eclipse picnic.
2. Arraiz BahatokiaA lesser-known viewpoint close to Bilbao, accessible by car. Fewer tourists, good western horizon — a solid alternative to Artxanda for those who want to avoid the crowds without sacrificing the view.
3. Mirador del Pico ErrestalekuFor those willing to put in a little effort. Reachable by public transport or car, followed by a 60-minute hike uphill. The reward is a panoramic view that makes every step worth it. The elevation and open landscape give you an ideal angle for watching the eclipse unfold.
Tip: leave early — factor in the hike and potential traffic on eclipse day.
4. Puente de la Salve — Guggenheim BridgeLet's be honest — most tourists will end up here. And it's easy to see why: a solar eclipse + the Guggenheim Museum + the Nervión River = a shot that will flood every social media feed. The atmosphere will be electric — but expect massive crowds.
Tip: if you want the iconic photo with the Guggenheim in the background, this is your spot. If you want open sky and silence — pick one of the other options.
5. Luzuero Lurmuturreko Kanoiak ⭐ Top PickThis is the best spot on the list. Ocean views from a hilltop, complete silence, no urban skyline blocking the horizon. Reachable by public transport, then a 50-minute walk. The effort is absolutely worth it — ocean, sky, eclipse, all in one frame. This is the kind of moment you remember for the rest of your life.
Tip: bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and arrive early — even here, the best positions will fill up.

What to Bring● Solar eclipse glasses — mandatory, ISO 12312-2 certified. Never look at the Sun without them● Tripod and camera if you want to capture the moment● A warm layer — temperatures drop quickly after sunset● Water and snacks — especially if you're heading to spots 3 or 5● Navigation app — some of these locations are tricky to find

Final ThoughtsA solar eclipse lasts only minutes — but the memory lasts a lifetime. Bilbao on the evening of August 12, 2026 will be unlike anywhere else on Earth. Choose your spot early, arrive with time to spare, and enjoy every second of it.
And if you're coming to Bilbao and the Basque Country for more than just the eclipse — we've put together a 5-Day Basque Country Travel Guide with a day-by-day itinerary, the best pintxos bars, hidden spots and Google Maps included. Just download and go.