Geography

• Istanbul is truly the city by the sea. The Black Sea borders the north, and the Sea of Marmara is south. The European and Asian sides of the city are divided by the Golden Horn and Bosphorus.
  
  

Weather

• The climate in Istanbul is temperate. Summer is June through September. Rain falls all through the year, but snow is common between December and March.
  
  

Demographics

• Seventy percent of Istanbulites live on the European side of the city. The predominant religion is Islam. There are also Greek Orthodox Christians and Sephardic Jews.
  
  

Economy

• Istanbul is at the crux of land and sea trade. It exports things such as tobacco and silk. Tourism has become a vital industry; Istanbul was named one of the European Capitals for Culture for 2010.
  
  

Attractions

• Istanbul is dotted with ancient ruins, mosques, temples, museums and statues that depict the city's dynamic history. The Grand Bazaar and the Egyptian Spice Bazaar draw millions every year.