Hotel availability is extremely limited. Reserve your spot for this extraordinary experience before December 1, 2025!
Here you can find answers to some questions we are frequently asked. Don't hesitate to contact us, though, if you can't find the information you seek.
When is the eclipse?
The total solar eclipse will be visible in Soria, Spain, on August 12, 2026, with the eclipse beginning at approximately 7:34 p.m. local time, reaching maximum at 8:29 p.m., and ending at 9:11 p.m. Totality will last for over a minute within the path of visibility.
What is the likelihood of good weather?
The likelihood of clear skies for the 2026 total solar eclipse in Soria, Spain is generally good, with August being a typically sunny month with high percentages of clear skies in that region. Soria is well-positioned for viewing, offering crystal-clear skies and a good sun height, though thunderstorm risk does exist.
Why Soria?
Typical August Weather: August is a peak summer month in Spain, known for its sunny, dry climate with a high percentage of possible sunshine.
Ideal Location: Soria is located inland, away from the slightly cloudier northern coast, and falls within the totality path, making it a prime viewing destination.
Centrality: The region is close to the centerline of the eclipse path, which offers the longest duration of totality.
Nearby Observatory: The Observatory Astronómico Borobia is a short drive away and will be offering an enjoyable and educational program around the eclipse and the Perseid meteor shower.
Where is Soria?
Soria is in north-central Spain, in the autonomous community of Castile and León. It’s along the Duero River, surrounded by forests, hills, and natural landscapes, roughly midway between Madrid and Zaragoza.
What type of trip is this?
This is a small-group, self-drive cultural and culinary tour of Northern Spain, combined with the unique opportunity to witness the 2026 total solar eclipse in Soria. The trip blends sightseeing, local experiences, and gastronomy across multiple regions.
How active will we be on this trip?
Plan to walk up to a few miles a day, mostly on urban sidewalks and cobblestone streets. Hills and stairs are common in this landscape.
What is the format of the tours?
Most city and culinary tours are private, designed for our small group to provide a personalized experience. Some optional activities, like wine tastings or observatory programs, may include small shared groups, depending on the provider.
Do I have to do all of the activities with the group?
No. You can opt out of any activities that do not interest you or if you need some time to yourself. While we cannot guarantee refunds for any skipped activities, we are happy to provide advice on alternatives and help you further customize your itine
Which cities will we visit and what are the highlights?
San Sebastián: Beaches, Old Town, and a gourmet pintxo tour with a sunset boat ride
Pamplona: Historic streets, Gothic churches, and vibrant local culture
Olite: Medieval castle and festival experiences
Logroño: Rioja wine tastings and tapas along Calle Laurel
Soria: Front-row experience of the 2026 solar eclipse, with optional observatory programs and stargazing events
Bilbao (optional, recommended): Modern architecture, art, and riverside exploration
Where should I land in Spain?
For this trip, the best airports to fly into are Bilbao or San Sebastián, as they are closest to the starting point in Northern Spain. Madrid and Barcelona are also options if you prefer more flight options, but keep in mind additional travel time to reach San Sebastián. From any of these airports, you can rent a car for the self-drive portion of the trip or arrange private transportation through our team.
How will we get around?
The trip is designed to be self-drive, giving you flexibility to explore each destination at your own pace. For those who prefer not to drive, a private car and driver can be arranged in advance. Transfers between airports and hotels can also be organized through our team.
What happens after the itinerary is over?
Once the trip concludes, you will check out of your final hotel in Soria or your chosen departure city and travel to your airport for your return flight. Travelers are free to extend their stay in Spain independently if desired, and our team can assist with additional hotel bookings, transportation, or travel recommendations at an extra cost.
Where should I depart from Spain?
We recommend departing from Bilbao or Madrid, depending on your flight preferences and connections. Our team can assist with additional travel plans and transportation from your final hotel to the airport.
What should I pack?
Casual clothing will be appropriate for the duration of the trip, though you may want something smarter for evening activities.
You will want comfortable, breathable layers and sturdy shoes suitable for walking around on a warm summer day. Bring a sweater as the nights in Northern Spain may cool off, even in summer.
Religious sites may require covered shoulders and knees.
What type of electrical adapters do I need?
Spain uses type C and F plugs for electrical appliances. The electricity supply is 220 volts, 50 Hertz. For most electronic devices you will not need an voltage converter, but appliances such as hair styling tools may require one (though the hotels supply hair dryers, so you don't need to bring one).
What languages are spoken in Northern Spain?
While Spain has four official languages, you are most likely to encounter Castilian Spanish. Signs and official communications in the cities you will be visiting are presented in both Castilian Spanish and Basque (Euskera).
Is English widely spoken?
While most people have studied English, comfort and fluency may vary greatly. Communicating with staff at restaurants and hotels will generally be easy, but don't assume that everyone speaks English. Learning some basic courtesies will be helpful and polite. Our local team will be there to help make sure all your needs are met!
When do we eat?
All the time! People in Spain tend to eat several times throughout the day. Breakfast is the smallest, lunch is the main meal, and dinner tends to be lighter than lunch and eaten later in the evening. Snacks help to fill the gaps between the main meals. Don't worry, you won't go hungry!
What makes this trip worth the price tag?
This trip combines exclusive cultural experiences, gourmet food and wine, and Northern Spain’s most captivating regions with the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the 2026 total solar eclipse from Soria. It includes carefully selected accommodations, curated tours, VIP access to restaurants and events, and optional observatory programming, offering a seamless, memorable, and immersive experience that’s difficult to replicate independently.
How do I pay my deposit and balance?
When you contact us to express your interest in committing to the trip, we will send a secure payment link from AleVia Travel where you can input your credit card information.
What is your cancellation policy?
See our Price Information page for complete pricing and cancellation policies.
How much cash will I need?
Spain uses the Euro. While credit and debit cards are widely accepted you may want some small bills or coins on hand for incidentals.
What is the tipping culture?
Tipping is not mandatory. In restaurants, if the service charge is not included, you may consider tipping a few Euros, up to 10%. You do not need to tip in casual cafes or fast food restaurants. Tips for tour guides are typically 10-15 Euro for half a day and 15-25 Euro for a full day, though you do not need to tip our team. There is no need to tip taxi drivers, but you may tip private drivers 2-5 Euro per day.