Weather

• Istanbul's climate can range from extremely hot and humid during the summers to cold and damp in the winter, according to the Governorship of Istandbul website. The average annual temperature is nearly 57 degrees Fahrenheit. February is the coldest month while July and August are the hottest, although the city can experience cool weather during the summer months. April and May are ideal times to visit Istanbul for the mild temperatures and flowers that come after the rainy and cool weather normally experienced in March. The moderate temperatures in autumn make this season also an ideal time to visit.
  
  For those looking for snow, the city averages seven days of snow a year during the winter months, which last from December to March. Winter, however, is usually rainy.
  
  

Events and Festivals

• Istanbul is a city diverse in culture and things to do. The Istanbul Foundation for Culture and Arts (www.iksv.org/english/) lists cultural events held in the city throughout the year. For those interested in the arts, the city offers festivals in art, film, music and theater.
  
  One of the biggest events is the International Istanbul Biennial, a festival during the months of September, October and November that features visual artwork from artists around the world.
  
  The Istanbul International Music Festival is usually held during the months of June and July and features a selection of classical music, ballet and opera. The International Istanbul Jazz Festival is held in July.
  
  The International Istanbul Film Festival, held in April, features films and documentaries from all over the world. The festival also features master classes, panel discussions and awards for the best films.
  
  The International Istanbul Theatre Festival takes place in May and June and often features more than 70 performances. The festival features dramatic and dance pieces.
  
  Aside from international festivals, the city offers smaller events in each of the artistic categories as well as events for children, such as Minifest in the summer.
  
  Turkey is 99 percent Muslim, according to the United States Department of State. The country observes the holy month of Ramadan in which Muslims refrain from eating, drinking, smoking or indulging in any way from dawn to sunset. The dates for Ramadan changes every year so visitors should check the dates for the holiday before traveling to Istanbul.