Istanbul rewards travelers who mix its major landmarks with slower, local moments. Here's where most first-time visitors should start.

1. Hagia Sophia and the Blue Mosque, both walkable from each other in the historic Sultanahmet district.

2. Topkapi Palace, the former residence of Ottoman sultans, with views over the Bosphorus.

3. The Grand Bazaar and Spice Bazaar for a few hours of browsing (and bargaining).

4. A Bosphorus cruise at sunset — the easiest way to see both the European and Asian sides of the city.

5. A tea break in a local çay bahçesi (tea garden) to slow down between sights.