Bauska Castle

Bauska Castle stands at Pilskalns in Bauska, in the Zemgale region about 65 km south of Riga, on a ridge at the confluence of the Musa and Memele rivers, which join to form the Lielupe. The site holds two parts: the ruins of a 15th-century Livonian Order castle and a 16th-century ducal palace built for the Dukes of Courland, which has been restored and houses a museum. Buses from the Riga International Coach Terminal run hourly and take about 1 hour for roughly 3 EUR one way, and driving the A7 takes about 55 minutes. Timetables can be checked on 1188.lv.

The ruined medieval castle is the most atmospheric part, with a tower that can be climbed for views across the river junction and the surrounding Zemgale plain. The restored ducal palace contains exhibitions on the history of the castle and the Duchy of Courland, including period rooms. The castle grounds are open for walking, and a path leads along the riverbank. In the town itself, the small centre has a few cafes and shops, and the surrounding countryside is flat and agricultural.

A relaxed one-day arc takes a morning bus to arrive around late morning, then about two hours at the castle covering the ruins, tower and ducal palace museum. Lunch is possible in the town centre, followed by a walk by the rivers. Many visitors continue to Rundale Palace, about 12 km away, in the afternoon, either by car, by taxi or on a group tour, then return to Riga in the evening. Visitors who stay only in Bauska can finish with a coffee and take an afternoon bus back.

The best period is May to September, when the grounds and riverbanks are pleasant and the tower views are clearest. Winter visits are possible but the museum hours may be reduced and the site feels bleak. Food stops are limited to the town centre, so a mid-day meal in Bauska is the usual choice. A typical day costs about 15 to 25 EUR including lunch, with museum and tower tickets extra; current prices should be checked on bauskaspils.lv.