Auce

ProvinceLatvia, Europe

Auce is a STATE in Latvia, Europe.

Nestled in the Zemgale region of southern Latvia, Auce is a charming province that offers travelers an authentic glimpse into Latvia's rural heartland. Known for its rolling hills, dense forests, and tranquil lakes, Auce is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and those seeking peaceful retreats. The region's crown jewel is the Auce Manor, a beautifully restored 19th-century estate surrounded by picturesque parks, perfect for leisurely strolls and historical exploration. The nearby Lake Auce provides excellent opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching, while the surrounding forests are ideal for hiking and mushroom foraging in autumn. Auce's cultural significance shines through its traditional Latvian festivals, where visitors can experience folk music, dance, and local crafts. The province's agricultural heritage is evident in its working farms, where you can sample fresh dairy products and artisanal honey. What makes Auce truly special is its untouched natural beauty and slow-paced lifestyle, offering a refreshing contrast to urban centers. Don't miss the chance to explore the scenic Bērze River valley or visit the local museums showcasing the region's rich history and craftsmanship.

Best time to visit Auce

May to September offers the best weather for outdoor activities with pleasant temperatures (15-25°C) and long daylight hours. July and August are ideal for swimming in lakes and attending local festivals like the Auce Town Festival. September is perfect for autumn foliage and mushroom foraging. Winter (December-February) offers beautiful snowy landscapes for cross-country skiing and winter photography, though temperatures can drop below -10°C. Avoid late autumn (October-November) if you dislike rain and overcast conditions.

October

Now

Right now

Condition
Overcast
Temperature
7°
Feels like
5°
Humidity
99%
Wind
7 km/h
Precipitation
0 mm

Typical for October

Weather
Cool 5-10°C, rainy

Travel notes

Crowds
Low
Prices
Low

Quiet; some attractions close.

Weather from Open-Meteo

Know before you go

Getting there

RIX

Riga International Airport

International

90 km away

VNO

Vilnius Airport

International

180 km away

Getting around

"Public transportation is limited in Auce province. The town has local bus services connecting to nearby villages, but schedules are infrequent. Renting a car is highly recommended for exploring the region thoroughly. Taxis are available in Auce town but should be booked in advance. Popular ride-hailing apps like Bolt operate in larger cities but may not be available locally. Bicycles can be rented for exploring the town and nearby countryside. For longer distances, trains run from nearby stations like Dobele to Riga and other major cities. Walking is pleasant within Auce town center, but attractions are spread out across the province."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

20 Mbps

Mobile data

Good

WiFi

Available in hotels and cafes, but may be slow

Local SIM

Local SIM available at shops from $5

Calling code

+371

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Extremely low crime; scams are virtually nonexistent.

Night safety

8/10

Extremely low crime; scams are virtually nonexistent.

Transport

9/10

Scam risk

2/10

"Auce is generally very safe with low crime rates. Violent crime is rare, but take normal precautions with valuables. The town center and rural areas are safe to explore day and night. Be cautious when driving on rural roads, especially at night, as wildlife crossings are common and road lighting may be limited. No specific areas need to be avoided, though remote forest areas should be explored with proper navigation equipment. Scams are uncommon, but be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help. During winter, roads can be icy; ensure your vehicle has winter tires if driving. Always inform someone of your hiking plans in forested areas."

Entry and health

Health information

"Auce has a local medical center (Auce Health Center) for basic healthcare needs, but serious conditions require transfer to larger hospitals in Jelgava (50km) or Riga (100km). Travelers should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance covering medical evacuation. No specific vaccinations are required beyond routine immunizations. Tick-borne encephalitis is a concern in forested areas; use insect repellent and check for ticks after outdoor activities. Tap water is generally safe, but bottled water is widely available. Pharmacies (aptieka) in Auce town can provide over-the-counter medications, but bring any prescription medicines with you. Emergency dental services are limited locally."

Culture

Local customs

"Latvians in Auce value politeness and modest behavior. Greet people with a handshake and maintain eye contact. Remove shoes when entering homes. Dress modestly when visiting churches or rural communities. Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory; round up the bill or leave 5-10% in restaurants. When invited to a local home, bring a small gift like flowers (odd number only) or chocolates. Respect nature by not littering and following marked trails. During midsummer (Jāņi) celebrations in June, participate respectfully in traditional rituals. Avoid loud behavior in public places. Photography of people should be done with permission, especially in rural areas."
LatvianRussian

Costs and practicals

Currency

Euro (EUR) · €

Cost level

Budget

Meals

$5-10 | a cheap local meal costs around $5-10

Hotels

$30-60 | budget hotels range $30-60/night

Local transport

$1 | local bus ride ~$1

Cost notes

Auce is very affordable compared to Riga.

Timezone

Europe/Riga +02:00 (GMT)

More facts

Population

6,000

Area

517.5 km²

Government

Municipality with elected council and mayor

Type

Province

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: 0028200, Aucė, Alt-Autz, Vecauce, Auce, Ауце, Marupe, marph, marpې, marpے, marupe, maruፔ, marwyb, Марупе, مارويب, مارپه, مارپې, مارپے, मारुपे, মারুপে, ਮਾਰੁਪੇ, ማሩፔ, マルペ

Capital CityMajor HubNatureRuralFamily-FriendlyHikingCyclingCultural Heritage