Things To Do
in Bauska
Bauska is a small southern Latvian town set at the confluence of river valleys, surrounded by farmland and forest. Its centerpiece is the dramatic Bauska Castle ruins that overlook the town and connect visitors with Latvia’s medieval past. As a gateway to Rundāle Palace and Zemgale’s natural scenery, Bauska offers a compact, walkable center with easy day trips.
With an unpretentious vibe, it makes a great base for exploring southern Latvia at a relaxed pace.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Begin your day by settling into a charming guesthouse in the heart of Bauska. Savor a freshly brewed cup of Latvian coffee while soaking in the tranquil ambiance of the nearby Mēmele River. Wander along the cobblestone streets lined with colorful historic buildings and local boutiques.
Join a guided walking tour to learn about Bauska's rich history and architectural heritage. Visit the old Town Hall and admire the ornate facades of merchant houses from the 19th century. Enjoy a light snack at a cozy café overlooking the town square.
Head to the riverbank to witness a breathtaking sunset over the confluence of the Mēmele and Mūsa rivers. Sample traditional Latvian beers at a riverside pub with friendly local conversations. End the night with a leisurely stroll under softly lit lanterns along the waterfront.
Start at the imposing ruins of Bauska Castle and explore its medieval towers. Climb the decorated fortifications for panoramic views of the castle moat and surrounding fields. Learn about the Livonian Order's legacy at the on-site museum exhibits.
Descend into the castle's cellar to discover ancient artifacts and interactive displays. Join a costumed interpreter for a hands-on historical reenactment in the courtyard. Treat yourself to a traditional Latvian lunch at the castle café overlooking lush greenery.
Attend an atmospheric evening event or medieval banquet hosted in the castle hall if available. Stroll through nearby castle gardens as the lanterns are lit around the grounds. Reflect on centuries of history while enjoying a warm glass of spiced mead by candlelight.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| ☕Coffee/tea | $2-4 |
| 🚍One-way public transport ticket | $1-2 |
| 🥖Loaf of bread | $1-2 |
| 🧃Bottle water (1.5L) | $0.80-1.50 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Compact, walkable town with a strong historical feel
- Excellent base for day trips to Rundāle Palace and Zemgale nature
- Calm atmosphere ideal for leisurely travel
- Good value for money in southern Latvia
- Limited nightlife and dining options compared with bigger cities
- Some services and facilities may be basic in smaller venues
- Public transport options narrower than Riga; car or bike helpful
- "Labdien" - Good afternoon / Hello
- "Lūdzu" - Please
- "Paldies" - Thank you
- "Vai jūs runājat angliski?" - Do you speak English?
- "Kur ir tualete?" - Where is the bathroom?
- "Cik maksā?" - How much is this?
- "Uz redzēšanos" - Goodbye
- "Atvainojiet" - Excuse me / Sorry
Places to Visit in Bauska
Visit one of these nice places.
Iconic silhouette of the castle ruins against the river; great for sunrise and golden-hour shots from the hilltop and riverbank.
Historic streets with charming symmetry and signage; ideal for street photography and architectural shots.
Calm waters, reflections, and riverside views—perfect for long-exposure and sunset photography.
One of Latvia’s grand Baroque palaces; the manicured gardens and stately interiors provide regal photo opportunities.
Food in Bauska
Bauska Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Flaky pastries stuffed with salted bacon and onions; best enjoyed fresh from a local bakery.
Must-Try!
A classic Latvian comfort dish—pearl peas or grey peas with crispy bacon and a dab of dill.
A traditional caraway-filled rye pastry typical of Zemgale and often found in regional bakeries.
A creamy, seasonally inspired soup using locally foraged mushrooms.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Weekly market offering seasonal produce, dairy, bread, and local specialties; great for samples and fresh ingredients.
Seasonal snacks and pastries, especially popular in warm months with outdoor seating.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A polite handshake is common in formal settings; use a respectful tone with elders and avoid overly personal questions at first meetings.
Latvians often value personal space and quiet, especially in public. Small talk is welcome but not overly intrusive.
Being on time is appreciated in business and tours; plan arrivals accordingly.
Safety
Tipping in Bauska
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is common but not mandatory. 5-10% in restaurants for good service; round up when paying cash is also common in casual spots.
Euro is the currency. Cards (Visa/Mastercard) are widely accepted; contactless payments common; cash is acceptable in markets and smaller venues.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild days with blooming trees and frequent showers. Great for outdoor walks and market visits; bring a light rain jacket.
Warm to hot days with long daylight hours. Outdoor terraces, festivals, and nature trips are common; stay hydrated and use sun protection.
Golden forests and harvest colors. Comfortable hiking weather, but days shorten quickly; layer clothing for cool evenings.
Cold and snowy at times; shorter days. City lights and nearby palaces offer striking contrasts; warm footwear is essential.
Bauska at Night
Hiking in Bauska
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Scenic, moderate hike on forested trails around the outskirts of Bauska with viewpoints over the countryside.
Nearby nature trails offering wetland and forest scenery, suitable for day hikes and wildlife watching.
Extensive manicured gardens and surrounding parkland ideal for longer walks and photography.
Airports
How to reach Bauska by plane.
Main international gateway to Latvia, located about 60–70 km northeast of Bauska; connects to major European and international destinations. Best reached by car or rail connections via Riga.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority ethnicity in the town and country, with deep ties to local culture and language.
A smaller but enduring presence; Latvian and Russian communities contribute to cultural diversity.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Popular local and regional activity with community clubs and matches in nearby towns.
Well-supported in Latvia; local gyms and clubs offer opportunities to watch or participate.
A staple of Latvian winter sports, with regional leagues and indoor rinks in the broader Zemgale area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Bauska.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for vegetable-based dishes, dairy, and mushroom options. In smaller towns, vegetarian plates may be simpler—ask for seasonal vegetable sides and salads; many places can adapt soups and sides to be meat-free.