April to June and September to October are the best months: temperatures are comfortable (18–26°C), the university is in full session so the city has its characteristic energy, and tourist numbers are lower than in high summer. The light on the sandstone buildings is particularly good in spring and autumn.
July and August are hot — regularly 35–40°C — and the student population largely disappears for the summer, which changes the city's atmosphere significantly. It is still very much a tourist destination in summer, but quieter and less lively.
Christmas and Easter bring special character: the Plaza Mayor is lit up elaborately at Christmas, and Semana Santa (Holy Week before Easter) is marked by candlelit processions through the old town. The Monday after Easter (Lunes de Aguas) is a local holiday when Salamantinos traditionally picnic by the Tormes and eat hornazo.