Best Time to Visit Extremadura
A season-by-season guide to the weather in Extremadura, from cherry blossom in spring to cranes and mild days in winter.
Extremadura has a Mediterranean climate with hot, dry summers and mild winters. The region is big, so conditions vary from the cooler mountains in the north to the hotter plains in the south. For most travelers, the best months are April, May, September, and October.
At a glance
- Spring: mild and green, with cherry blossom and wildflowers.
- Summer: very hot, but full of festivals and good for swimming.
- Autumn: mild and quiet, with the grape harvest and the arrival of the cranes.
- Winter: mild in the plains, cold in the mountains, and the best time for birdwatching.
Spring (March to May)
Spring is the most popular season. Temperatures are pleasant, the dehesas turn green, and the wildflowers are at their best.
The highlight is the cherry blossom in the Jerte Valley, usually in the second half of March. Easter (Semana Santa) brings processions to many towns, and the weather is ideal for hiking and visiting Monfragüe or La Vera.
Summer (June to August)
Summers are hot and dry. In Badajoz and the southern plains, temperatures often pass 40°C (104°F). If you visit in summer, sightsee early in the morning and late in the evening, and plan a break in the middle of the day.
Summer is also festival season. The Classical Theater Festival of Mérida runs from June to September, and many towns hold their own celebrations.
It is a great time to swim in the natural pools and gorges of the north.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is a comfortable, quieter season. Days are warm and nights are cool, and the light is beautiful for photography.
This is grape-harvest time in regions such as Tierra de Barros. From late October, the common cranes arrive for the winter, making this one of the best times for birdwatching.
Winter (December to February)
Winters are mild in the plains, with average temperatures often above 8°C (46°F), but colder in the mountains around Guadalupe and the north.
This is the season for the cranes and for large flocks of other birds. In February, great bustards begin their courtship displays. Crowds are small and prices are lower, except around the Carnival of Badajoz in February.
What to pack
- Comfortable walking shoes, even for city visits.
- Sun protection, especially in summer.
- Layers: days can be warm while mornings and evenings are cool.
- A light rain jacket in spring and autumn.
- Binoculars if you plan to watch birds.
Where to stay…
Find hotels and rural houses in Extremadura