Bordeaux
Bordeaux sits just outside the path of totality, but it still gets a remarkable show: on August 12, 2026 the Moon covers 97.5% of the Sun at maximum around 8:24 PM local time (CEST), with the Sun hanging only 8° above the western horizon. The eclipse is still in progress when the Sun sets at 9:13 PM, so sunset is the natural end of the event.
When it happens in Bordeaux
| Partial begins | 7:29 PM CEST |
| Maximum (97.5% covered) | 8:24 PM CEST |
| Sun sets — eclipse still in progress | 9:13 PM CEST |
All times local (CEST); the Sun is just 8° up at maximum and sets at 9:13 PM while still eclipsed — the show ends at sunset, so a clear, low horizon is essential.
What you'll see
A near-total crescent Sun sitting low over the horizon in fading evening light — daylight will turn eerily dim and silvery, and the temperature will drop noticeably, but the corona stays hidden and true darkness never falls. The low angle gives the scene a cinematic quality, with the deeply eclipsed Sun sinking through any haze or colour above the horizon until it disappears at 9:13 PM. For the full totality experience — corona, sudden darkness, stars at dusk — the path of totality runs through Iceland and northern and eastern Spain.
Where to watch from
At just 8° altitude at maximum, even a low rooftop or gentle hill to the west will block your view entirely. Head to the Gironde estuary waterfront, the Garonne riverside, or any open ground with a completely flat, unobstructed horizon toward the west-north-west.
Where to stand in Bordeaux
- Look west-northwest — the Sun is 8° above the horizon at maximum, on a bearing of 284°. That is low enough that buildings and hills will block it, so an open view along that bearing is essential. The Sun sets at 9:13 PM while still eclipsed, so the show ends at sunset here — there is no second chance later in the evening.
- Be in position by 7:29 PM, when the partial phase starts, and scout the west-northwest skyline from your spot the day before if you can.
- Check before you travel: Météo-France for cloud cover, and Bison Futé road information for road status. Both are official national services and open in a new tab.
Horizon direction and altitude computed with Astronomy Engine for Bordeaux (44.8378, -0.5792). Last reviewed 2026-08-16.
Protect your eyes
Because Bordeaux never reaches totality, the Sun is never fully covered — so certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses must stay on the entire time from first contact at around 7:29 PM until the Sun sets at 9:13 PM. There is no safe naked-eye moment here, not even at the 97.5% peak; ordinary sunglasses are not a substitute.
Common questions
Will Bordeaux see a total solar eclipse?
No. Bordeaux sees a deep partial eclipse — 97.5% of the Sun covered at 8:24 PM (CEST) — but not totality. The path of totality passes through Iceland and northern and eastern Spain, not over southwestern France.
What time is the eclipse in Bordeaux?
The Moon takes its first bite out of the Sun around 7:29 PM. The eclipse reaches its 97.5% maximum at 8:24 PM, and then the Sun sets while still eclipsed at 9:13 PM — that is the end of the show, as the geometric last contact happens below the horizon. All times are CEST.
Do I need eclipse glasses in Bordeaux?
Yes, the entire time. Since the Sun is never fully covered from Bordeaux, there is no safe naked-eye moment at any point — keep certified ISO 12312-2 eclipse glasses on from 7:29 PM right through to sunset at 9:13 PM.