Budapest is a stunning Hungarian city bisected by the Danube river. Breathtaking architecture, myriad shops and cafes, and monuments appear at every turn. If you’re planning on visiting, I’ve come up with an itinerary including the things I found to be the best when I wandered its gorgeous streets this past summer.

1. Visit Parliament

Parliament is right on the Danube and is a must-see. The massive, grandiose building is more like a work of architectural art than a place of business, with an opulent interior staircase of rich gold and intricately vaulted hallways that seem to stretch on forever. I recommend taking a tour so that you are able to get a peek at a few of the rooms and halls inside, and be sure to include Liberty Square in your route to get to Parliament. You can even start at the basilica and work your way over, heading right. This particular square has a fountain that has sensors that switch on and off portions of the water whenever you get close, allowing you to "walk through water."

2. Take a river cruise and bike around Margaret Island

Hop on a river cruise to learn about Budapest's history by means of headphones that play recordings of a man and woman talking--each representing either the Pest or the Buda side of the river, so that you knew where to look. Definitely book the tour that stops at Margaret Island. There you can rent a cute covered bike to ride around the island on, and you won't be alone, the island is teeming with other riders zipping around flower gardens and parks.

3. Cross over from Pest to the Buda Castle District

Hands down my favorite place in Budapest is the Buda Castle District, located West of the Danube. Either walk up a series of paths or take the funicular to the district's peak, marked by the National Gallery. To the right, past the headquarters of the Hungarian President’s office, lies the ever-charming Fisherman's Bastion, along with St. Matthias Church--a unique church with dazzling turquoise trimming and a shining patterned roof. Grab a quick bite to eat on the bastion's terrace while gazing out at the Pest side's many attractions, including a great view of Parliament.

4. See St. Stephen’s Basilica

One of Budapest's most well-known buildings, St. Stephen's Basilica is the heart of the Pest side, with plenty of shopping streets and cafes surrounding its impressive exterior. Go inside to soak in the exceptional colored arches and the dome which allows light to spill in over the altar. (Also to see the Holy Right Hand of St. Stephen, kept in a back room in a fancy case.)

5. Buy your loved ones souvenirs from Paprika Market

If you're in need of souvenirs to bring back home, Paprika Market is the place to go. Typical touristy things are available in bulk, such as mugs, magnets, t-shirts, keychains, postcards, and snow globes. It also offers Hungarian clothing, ceramics, food (honey, chocolate, wine, paprika) and more. And if you want bottled Budapest air, Paprika's got you covered. (Yup, you read that right. They've got gag gifts galore!) Be prepared for a crowd if you do decide to go, as it's a hotspot for tourists.

6. Hike up Gellert Hill

The somewhat strenuous hike up the verdant Gellert Hill is well worth the chance to appreciate the triumphant Liberty Statue at the hill's top, as well as the spectacular view of the city. The statue was erected in 1947 to commemorate Hungary's liberation from the Nazis and is simple but powerful. Wear sneakers if you hike!

7. Watch the circus

After strolling around Heroes’ Square, take a fun respite from walking and be amazed by the circus. I was blown away by the daring tricks performed and to this day still cannot fathom how they did certain things--like walking across a tightrope with two people on their shoulders, not attached to anything. Acrobatics, dogs, birds, magic tricks, dancing, aerial silk, and more will have you on the edge of your seat for three hours of entertainment.

So, as you can now tell, Budapest is destined to be on everyone's travel bucket list. It is beautiful, rich with history, and has everything--and more-- that one could want when visiting a new city!