Salta's climate is subtropical highland, with hot summers (November to March) that bring heavy rain — the wet season can make some mountain roads impassable and flash flooding is not unknown. The best time to visit is from April to October: dry, clear skies, and comfortable temperatures in the city. July and August are the coolest months and can be cold at altitude on day trips.
The city's biggest event is the Festival of the Lord and Virgin of the Miracle on 15 September, when enormous candlelit processions fill the streets. The Cosquín Rock Festival and various provincial folk festivals take place through the winter months. The Tren a las Nubes runs on Saturdays from April to November.