Latvia Adventures

Must-Visit Museums in Bauska

A panoramic aerial view of Bauska Castle, one of the must-visit museums in Bauska, beautifully situated between two rivers and surrounded by lush green countryside.

Bauska is a town where history meets culture in the most unforgettable way. One of the best ways to explore its heritage is by visiting its fascinating museums. In this guide, we’ll show you the must-visit museums in Bauska that locals and tourists alike truly appreciate. Whether you’re passionate about castles, old tools, or daily life from centuries ago, Bauska has something for you. These museums are immersive, interactive, and filled with authentic stories. So, let’s dive into the cultural gems waiting in this charming Latvian town. Don’t miss the chance to discover them all.

Bauska Castle Museum – A Journey into the Medieval Past

When it comes to must-visit museums in Bauska, the Bauska Castle Museum stands out immediately. Located at the confluence of the Musa and Memele rivers, this medieval fortress transports visitors back in time. Built in the 15th century, it played a strategic role in Livonia. Today, the restored part serves as a museum showcasing weapons, interiors, and clothing from different centuries. You can climb towers, walk ancient corridors, and even try on knight armor. Interactive exhibits make history come alive for children and adults alike. For a real medieval experience, this museum is a top priority.

Bauska Museum – Dive Deep into Local Heritage

Just a short walk from the castle lies the Bauska Museum, a hub of regional knowledge and pride. This museum focuses on the everyday life of Bauska’s people through various periods. It features exhibitions on fashion, furniture, and crafts from the 19th and 20th centuries. Moreover, temporary exhibits highlight local artists and community milestones. With its welcoming atmosphere, the museum invites visitors to explore Bauska’s cultural identity. Educational programs are also available for children and schools. So, if you want to understand Bauska beyond the tourist view, this museum is essential.

Motor Museum Branch in Bauska – For Classic Car Enthusiasts

Car lovers will be thrilled by the Motor Museum branch in Bauska. It’s a satellite location of the Riga Motor Museum and is among the most unique must-visit museums in Bauska. Here, vintage vehicles take the spotlight, each with an intriguing backstory. The museum displays Soviet-era cars, trucks, and motorcycles in excellent condition. Visitors can learn about how transportation developed in Latvia and see rare models up close. Some vehicles are even open for photos and exploration. For fans of mechanics and design, this museum is a hidden treasure in Bauska.

Bauska Doll Museum – A Touch of Whimsy and Nostalgia

Tucked away on a quiet street, the Bauska Doll Museum offers a different kind of museum experience. This charming private collection showcases dolls from various countries and eras. Some dolls wear traditional costumes; others represent historical figures. The displays are thoughtful and surprisingly educational. Children are especially enchanted, but adults often find themselves just as engaged. Workshops and guided tours are available for a deeper experience. If you’re looking for something delightful and offbeat, this is one of the must-visit museums in Bauska. It’s a great stop for families or collectors.

Mazā muiža – A Rococo-Inspired Fashion Time Capsule

One of the most enchanting must-visit museums in Bauska is Mazā muiža. This unique place blends fashion history with theatrical storytelling. It is run by the “Rococo” Historical Reconstruction Studio, a group passionate about reviving 18th and 19th-century style. Since 2018, they have transformed an old barn into a beautiful exhibition space. Inside, you’ll find over 15 years of handmade costumes and elegant accessories. Each piece reflects fashion trends from the Rococo era through to the late 1800s. Members of the studio create every costume on display, preserving historic detail with care. The museum offers an immersive look into how people dressed in past centuries. For fashion lovers and history buffs, Mazā muiža is unforgettable.

V. Plūdonis Museum – Poetry, Tradition, and Playful Rabbits

Another of the must-visit museums in Bauska is the V. Plūdonis Museum in Lejenieki. It celebrates the life and poetry of Vilis Plūdonis, a beloved Latvian poet. The museum features his restored home, a barn, and a carriage house. Children adore the “Zaķīšu pirtiņa,” where a rabbit family carved by P. Students welcomes visitors. A walking path leads along the Mēmele River to the poet’s favorite writing spot. Families can join engaging educational programs and festive seasonal events. The museum offers creative workshops, like crafting straw ornaments or traditional Latvian cards. School groups love the hands-on learning opportunities rooted in Latvian culture. It’s a beautiful mix of history, poetry, and rural charm.

Ausekļu Dzirnavas Open-Air Museum – A Rural Treasure Among Must-Visit Museums in Bauska

Only 2 kilometers from the center of Bārbele village, near the scenic Iecava River, lies Ausekļu Dzirnavas — a traditional Latvian homestead and one of the must-visit museums in Bauska. This open-air museum offers an authentic glimpse into the daily life and work of rural Latvians, combining historic architecture, antique machinery, and hands-on cultural experiences.

Following a major reconstruction in 2011, the historic watermill now operates daily. The Lazdu Windmill, built in 1926, has also been restored and is accessible to all visitors. In 2013, the museum received the “Latvian Heritage” status for its commitment to preserving national traditions and integrating them into modern tourism experiences.

Throughout the year, the museum hosts two traditional festivals — the Sowing Feast in spring and the Harvest Feast in autumn. During these events, guests are invited to plant, harvest, and engage with old farming techniques and local crafts.

Key features that make Ausekļu Dzirnavas one of the must-visit museums in Bauska:

  • Extensive collection of antique household tools and agricultural machinery

  • Restored historic buildings, including the watermill and Lazdu Windmill

  • Seasonal events with traditional farming and craft activities

  • Hands-on workshops for rye bread and pie baking (by prior arrangement)

  • Guided tours with live demonstrations of traditional tools and methods

  • Accommodation and sauna facilities for up to 44 guests

  • Rustic banquet hall for events of up to 65 people

  • Tea house with seating for up to 45 people

  • Designated camping, picnic, and play areas for families and groups

Ausekļu Dzirnavas offers more than just a look into the past. It is a living cultural space where Latvian heritage thrives, making it a must-see destination for anyone exploring the best museums in Bauska.

Rundāle Palace Museum – Just a Short Drive Away

Although technically outside Bauska, Rundāle Palace Museum deserves mention due to its proximity and grandeur. Just 12 kilometers away, this 18th-century baroque masterpiece is a must-visit for architecture and history lovers. The palace features restored halls, lavish gardens, and exhibitions on Latvian nobility. Visitors can wander through ornately decorated rooms and admire period furnishings. Don’t skip the French-style gardens, which are stunning in summer. Rundāle Palace Museum complements the historical narrative started in Bauska. For a complete cultural journey, include it in your itinerary.

Rundāle Watermill Museum – A Must-Visit Museum in Bauska for History and Craft Lovers

Among the must-visit museums in Bauska, the Rundāle Watermill Museum offers a truly immersive experience. This historic site dates back to the 18th century and once belonged to Rundāle Manor. Despite surviving two major fires, the mill stands proudly today, blending tradition with modern attractions.

During the 1930s, Voldemārs Bergmanis restored the watermill, installing advanced milling machines of the era. Over time, the mill supported various trades, including wool processing, carpentry, and even fruit preparation. Today, visitors can explore five fascinating floors and follow the journey of grain becoming flour.

To enhance the experience, the site now features a brewery, opened in 2023, where you can taste and buy craft beer made on-site.

Highlights of Rundāle Watermill Museum:

  • Explore five interactive floors showing the full grain milling process

  • Discover authentic 20th-century mill machinery and woodworking tools

  • Learn about wool carding, fruit processing, and old steam engine technology

  • Visit the Rundāle brewery and taste their locally-made “Rudmate” lager

  • Enjoy guided tours and tastings in a charming historical setting

  • Rent unique event spaces inside the restored watermill

Whether you’re a history buff or a craft beer enthusiast, this is one of the must-visit museums in Bauska you shouldn’t miss.

Bauska offers a rich cultural experience through its must-visit museums. Each museum reveals unique aspects of Latvian history, art, and traditions. Whether you enjoy history, nature, or interactive exhibits, Bauska has something for everyone. Visiting these museums deepens your understanding of the region and its heritage. Plan enough time to explore multiple sites for a full experience. Don’t miss out on seasonal events and workshops that bring history to life. Overall, these must-visit museums in Bauska create unforgettable memories and inspire curiosity about Latvia’s past. Make sure to add them to your travel itinerary.