Bauska Castle
Explore the layered history of a Livonian Order castle and a later palace, set against a picturesque riverside landscape.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Bauska Castle
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore the layered history of a Livonian Order castle and a later palace, set against a picturesque riverside landscape.
"Must to visit place, a beautiful castle located in memorising landscape. Perfect place for Instagram photos."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking on uneven surfaces and stairs. Essential for exploring ruins and climbing the tower.
📸 Insta-Worthy Spots
Don't miss the large Bauska photo frame by the river for memorable shots!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Palace Grandeur
Palace Section
Explore the restored palace, showcasing historical furniture, attire, and military artifacts. A glimpse into aristocratic life.
Tower Views
Castle Tower
Climb the tower for breathtaking panoramic views of Bauska town and the surrounding picturesque landscape. Perfect for photos!
Ancient Ruins
Castle Ruins
Wander through the evocative ruins of the original Livonian Order castle, imagining centuries of history.
Riverside Scenery
River Bank
Enjoy the serene landscape by the river, a perfect spot for reflection and capturing memorable Instagram photos.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Navigating the Site
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Any special, usually missed places to visit in Latvia on our 5 day trip?
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking on uneven surfaces and stairs. Essential for exploring ruins and climbing the tower.
📸 Insta-Worthy Spots
Don't miss the large Bauska photo frame by the river for memorable shots!
Latvia hidden gems / recommendations
Where was i this summer?
📚 English Translations
Most exhibits have English placards or booklets available.
🤔 Shoe Covers
Be aware of shoe cover requirements for certain areas; follow signs or ask staff.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of walking on uneven surfaces and stairs. Essential for exploring ruins and climbing the tower.
📸 Insta-Worthy Spots
Don't miss the large Bauska photo frame by the river for memorable shots!
📚 English Translations
Most exhibits have English placards or booklets available.
🤔 Shoe Covers
Be aware of shoe cover requirements for certain areas; follow signs or ask staff.
💰 Senior Discount
Seniors can enjoy a reduced admission fee of €4.50.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Bauska Castle for its historical significance, beautiful riverside setting, and the rewarding views from its tower. The restored palace interiors are appreciated for their detailed exhibits and English translations, offering a comprehensive look into the past. Some minor confusion regarding shoe cover policies and the uneven terrain in the ruins are noted, but overall, it's considered a highly recommended and interesting visit.
"Overall an incredible experience. I really appreciate my journalism credentials were honoured. It wasn’t very crowded and despite the crappy weather day, it was still a very interesting visit. Every room has English translations on a placard or a booklet. The only exceptions are the placards on the old ruins lawn outside. The whole wearing of the shoe covers was confusing at first as there was no instructions as to when they were to be put on. Amazing views from the tower."
Jennifer Smith
"An interesting and heavily restored castle. History of the owners of the castle and their furniture, dress and military. Nice climb up the tower which gives great views of the town
€4.50 for seniors"
Julia
"We chose not to go inside and wanted to see the castle from the outside; we were on a tour and had 45 min at this stop. It is peaceful and quite beautiful. May 2025"
Linda M
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Bauska Castle is accessible by car from Riga, approximately a 1-hour drive. Public transport options include buses from Riga Central Bus Station to Bauska town, followed by a short taxi ride or walk to the castle.
Yes, there is usually parking available near the castle. It's advisable to check the official website for specific details on parking facilities and any associated fees.
Absolutely! Bauska Castle makes for an excellent day trip from Riga, offering a blend of history and scenic beauty. Plan for at least 3-4 hours to explore thoroughly.
Traveling by car offers the most flexibility for families, allowing you to stop at your own pace. If using public transport, ensure you factor in travel times and potential transfers.
Guided tours may be available, often with options for different languages. It's best to check the official Bauska Castle website or inquire upon arrival for current tour schedules and booking information.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Opening hours for Bauska Castle vary seasonally. It's highly recommended to check the official Bauska Castle website for the most up-to-date information before your visit.
Admission fees can vary for adults, seniors, and children. Seniors, for example, can expect to pay around €4.50. Check the official website for current pricing.
While advance booking might not always be mandatory, it can be a good idea during peak season to secure your entry and potentially avoid queues. Check the official website for booking options.
Yes, discounts are often available for seniors, students, and sometimes for families or groups. The senior price is noted as €4.50. Inquire at the ticket office or check the website for details.
Certain areas of Bauska Castle, particularly the restored palace interiors, may require visitors to wear shoe covers to protect the flooring. Instructions are usually provided on-site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Explore the historic ruins of the Livonian Order castle, the restored palace with its exhibits on history, furniture, and dress, and climb the tower for panoramic views. The riverside offers beautiful scenery.
Yes, children can enjoy exploring the castle ruins and imagining historical scenarios. The tower climb and the visual exhibits in the palace can also be engaging.
A visit to Bauska Castle typically takes 2-3 hours to explore the ruins, palace, and tower. If you plan to enjoy the surroundings or have a picnic, allocate more time.
Restroom facilities are generally available within the castle complex for visitor convenience.
Photography is usually permitted in most areas, but check for any specific restrictions, especially within museum exhibits. The exterior and tower views are excellent for photos.
📸 📸 Photography
The tower offers stunning panoramic views. The riverside with the large Bauska photo frame is also a popular spot. The castle ruins themselves provide a dramatic backdrop.
Drone usage is typically restricted at historical sites to protect the heritage and ensure visitor safety. It's best to check with the castle administration for their specific drone policy.
Early mornings or late afternoons often provide the best light for photography, creating beautiful shadows and golden hues. Weekday mornings also mean fewer people in your shots.
Tripod usage might be restricted in certain indoor areas to avoid damage or obstruction. For outdoor shots, it's generally acceptable, but always check for any posted rules.
Visitors highly recommend the large Bauska photo frame by the river for unique shots. The views from the tower are also consistently praised for their photographic potential.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as on-site facilities might be limited. The riverside area is a great spot for a break or a picnic. The English translations on exhibits are helpful for older children who can read along and learn about the castle's past.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Be prepared for varying light conditions, especially when shooting the ruins. The palace interiors offer opportunities for detailed shots of artifacts and architecture. Remember to check any photography restrictions within specific exhibit areas.
🏛️ History Buffs
Take your time to absorb the information provided on placards and in booklets. Consider researching the castle's timeline beforehand to enhance your appreciation of its historical significance and the various eras it represents.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History
The castle's history is rich with tales of knights, nobility, and changing political landscapes. The restoration efforts have been significant in preserving this heritage, making it a key historical site in Latvia. Visitors often appreciate the detailed placards and booklets that explain the historical context of each area, providing a deeper understanding of the castle's evolution.
For those interested in military history, the exhibits within the palace showcase historical weaponry, armor, and strategic layouts. The sheer scale of the original fortress and the architectural details of the later palace offer a compelling narrative of Latvian history.
Experiencing the Castle Today
The castle ruins provide a more atmospheric experience, allowing you to wander through the remnants of the medieval fortress and imagine its former glory. Climbing the castle tower is a must-do for many, rewarding visitors with spectacular panoramic views of Bauska town and the surrounding countryside. This vantage point is particularly popular for photography.
Beyond the historical structures, the riverside landscape offers a tranquil setting for relaxation and photography. The presence of a large Bauska photo frame by the river is a fun, modern addition that many visitors enjoy. Comfortable footwear is essential due to the uneven terrain and stairs throughout the site.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit