Best Spots in Paris to Watch the August 12 Solar Eclipse: Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe & More
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Best Spots in Paris to Watch the August 12 Solar Eclipse: Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe & More
In Paris, you'll want to find a viewing spot in the west of the city, and ideally somewhere high up.
Eclipse chasers have already booked their trips to northern Spain and western Iceland, where the total solar eclipse of 12 August 2026 will be visible in its full glory. In Paris, it'll be nearly as spectacular — the sun will be 90% obscured. This 16th total eclipse of the 21st century will be visible toward the northwest starting at 7:22pm, peaking at 8:17pm. A completely clear horizon is essential, as the sun will be very low in the sky at that hour.

In Paris, the best viewing spots should be in the city's west, ideally elevated. The bridges across the Seine make excellent options — Pont Neuf, Pont des Arts, Pont de la Concorde, Pont Alexandre-III and others. The French Astronomy Association (AFA) also recommends parks such as the Jardin du Luxembourg (near the central fountain), the lawns of Les Invalides (on the Avenue Maréchal-Gallieni side), and Parc André-Citroën, where AFA teams will set up equipment and offer expert guidance from 7pm.
Even better? Head to the top of the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, or the rooftop of the Philharmonie — where only clouds could spoil the view. The AFA reminds everyone that a solar eclipse must never be observed with the naked eye, and ISO 12312-2 certified protective glasses are mandatory.

