If you’re planning a trip to Bucharest and looking for a way to unwind and indulge in a bit of luxury without breaking the bank, look no further than Therme Bucharest.
We recently had the pleasure of spending 2 full days at this incredible wellness retreat, and it was truly one of the highlights of the trip.
From its luxurious pools to its world-class saunas and rejuvenating spa treatments, Therme Bucharest offers a unique experience that is well worth the visit.
In this comprehensive guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to make the most of your time at Therme Bucharest—from how to get there, to the various attractions you’ll find inside, and why it’s such great value for money.
Getting to Therme Bucharest
One of the great things about Therme Bucharest is how accessible it is from both the airport and the city centre. Located just 10 kilometres north of Bucharest, in the town of Balotești, it’s a quick and easy journey no matter where you’re coming from.
- From Bucharest Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP):
If you’re arriving by air, you’re in luck—Therme Bucharest is only a 10-15 minute drive from the airport. The easiest way to get there is by taxi, which is both convenient and reasonably priced. You can expect to pay around 50-70 RON (£9-£12 or $11-$15) for the ride.
If you’re on a budget, there are also super cheap buses that run between the airport and Therme Bucharest. The 783 Express line is the most popular option and will get you there in about 20 minutes for just 3.5 RON (less than £1 or $1).
- From Bucharest City Center:
If you’re staying in the heart of Bucharest, getting to Therme Bucharest is just as easy. A taxi ride will take about 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic, and should cost around 80-100 RON (£14-£17 or $18-$21). Again, buses are an excellent budget-friendly option.
The 442 bus route will take you directly from Piata Romana to Therme Bucharest for a mere 2.5 RON. While the bus ride takes about an hour, it’s a comfortable and straightforward way to get there if you’re not in a rush.
Why Therme Bucharest is an Affordable Luxury Experience
One of the reasons Therme Bucharest is such a great choice is because it offers a truly luxurious experience at a fraction of the cost you’d expect. For just £28.83 ($36.48 or 167 RON) on weekdays and £32.28 ($40.86 or 187 RON) on weekends and bank holidays, you can enjoy a full day of relaxation and fun with the Elysium Package, which grants you access to all areas. This package includes not only the various pools and water attractions but also the incredible sauna world, where you can unwind in themed saunas from around the globe.
If you’re on a tighter budget, there are cheaper options available, such as three-hour or 4.5-hour packages, or limited access packages like the Galaxy Waterpark or The Palm only. However, I would highly recommend spending a bit more for the Elysium Package. The full-day experience is well worth the price, allowing you to explore all that Therme Bucharest has to offer without feeling rushed.
A Day of Pure Bliss: What to Expect at Therme Bucharest
Upon arriving at Therme Bucharest, you’ll be greeted by a stunning, modern complex surrounded by lush greenery. Check in is easy and we’d recommend buying tickets in advance so you can use an e-ticket so go through the fast lane.
You’ll be given a towel and the option of renting slippers (mandatory) and as an electronic wrist band which is used for paying for things in Therme and also for your locker. Lockers are all electronic and there are barriers for each section so if you don’t purchase the Elysium Package, you won’t be able to access all areas.
The Palm: A Tropical Oasis
One of the most iconic areas of Therme Bucharest is The Palm, a massive indoor pool area surrounded by over 500 palm trees imported from all over the world. The Palm is designed to make you feel like you’ve stepped into a tropical paradise, complete with warm temperatures and crystal-clear waters. The main pool is vast and inviting, with plenty of space to swim or simply float and relax. There are hydromassage beds, hot tubs and an incredible pool bar ( Peroni is $3 or 13 RON for 400ml)
Just outside The Palm, you’ll find the Palm Outdoor Pool. This area is particularly stunning on sunny days, with the added bonus of another swim-up bar where you can order your cocktails & beer without ever leaving the water. There’s something incredible about sipping a piña colada while lounging in a pool under the Romanian sun.
Galaxy Waterpark: Fun for All Ages
If you’re visiting with family or simply want to embrace your inner child, the Galaxy Waterpark is the place to be. This area is packed with thrilling water slides, wave pools, and even a lazy river. The Galaxy Waterpark is designed with both kids and adults in mind, so you’ll find a mix of high-speed slides for the adrenaline junkies and more gentle attractions for those who prefer a more relaxed pace.
One of the highlights of the Galaxy Waterpark is the Outdoor Galaxy Pool, which also features a swim-up bar. This pool is a bit more laid-back than the main waterpark area, making it a great spot to unwind after a few rounds on the slides. If you’re looking for a quieter experience, the Galaxy Relaxation Pool is a must-visit. This indoor pool is kept at a slightly higher temperature and is designed for relaxation, with soothing music and gentle lighting creating the perfect ambiance.
Mineral Pools: Rejuvenate Your Body and Mind
One of the most unique aspects of Therme Bucharest is its selection of mineral pools, each designed to offer specific health benefits. The Selenium & Zinc Pool is a particular favourite, known for its skin-healing properties. Soaking in this pool left my skin feeling incredibly soft and rejuvenated.
For a truly unique experience, head to the Dead Sea Salt Pool. The high salt concentration in this pool makes it almost impossible to sink, so you can float effortlessly while the minerals work their magic on your skin and muscles. It’s a surreal feeling and one that’s not to be missed.
Other mineral pools include the Lithium Pool, known for its calming effects, and the Calcium & Magnesium Pool, which helps strengthen bones and muscles. I made it a point to try out each and every pool to see which one was the best. You have to make the most of it!
Sauna World: A Journey Around the Globe
If relaxation is what you’re after, Therme Bucharest has you covered with its incredible Sauna World. This area features a variety of themed saunas, each offering a unique experience based on different cultures and traditions.
- Hollywood Sauna: If you’re a movie buff, this sauna is a must. It’s designed to resemble a classic Hollywood theatre, with cinematic decor and soothing lighting. As you relax, you can watch classic films projected onto the walls, adding a touch of glamour to your sauna experience.
- Amazon Sauna: This sauna is inspired by the lush rainforests of the Amazon, with high humidity and the scent of tropical plants filling the air. The ambiance is both calming and invigorating, making it a perfect spot to detox.
- Tropical Rain Sauna: As the name suggests, this sauna mimics the experience of being caught in a warm tropical rainstorm. The combination of heat and mist is incredibly soothing, and the sound of raindrops adds an extra layer of relaxation.
- Himalayan Salt Sauna: One of the most visually striking saunas, the Himalayan Salt Sauna is lined with glowing salt blocks that create a warm, pinkish hue. The salt air is believed to have various health benefits, particularly for respiratory issues, making this sauna both beautiful and therapeutic.
- Bavarian Sauna: This sauna transports you to a cozy Bavarian lodge, complete with wooden beams and rustic decor. The temperature here is slightly lower than in some of the other saunas, making it a great option if you prefer a milder heat.
- Provence Sauna: Inspired by the lavender fields of Provence, this sauna is filled with the calming scent of lavender. The gentle heat and aromatic atmosphere make it a perfect place to unwind.
- Alhambra Sauna: Inspired by the famous Alhambra Palace, this stunningly decorated sauna is moorish, designed for your well-being and balancing hormones.
In addition to these, there are other themed saunas like the Oriental Garden Sauna and the Herbal Essences Sauna, each offering its own unique experience. For those who want to take their relaxation to the next level, there’s also a Salt Library where you can read while breathing in the therapeutic salt air, and Calla Showers that provide refreshing bursts of water to cool down between sauna sessions.
Not only can you relax in these saunas, they also have lots activities and sessions which take place in different saunas at different times so its worth checking the schedule – View it here
Dining at Therme Bucharest: A Culinary Delight
A day at Therme Bucharest wouldn’t be complete without sampling some of the delicious food available at its on-site restaurants. The complex offers a variety of dining options, catering to different tastes and dietary preferences.
The most popular and most diverse restaurant is the Humboldt Restaurant, which has almost every type of food you can think of. There are 5 different cuisines with live cooking stations. Some of the themes include Asian Culture (including Sushi) Mediterranean (Fish & Seafood) and also New World Food (American Steak & Burgers) This restaurant is also the cheapest so its a popular choice.
Another main restaurants is The Mango Tree, which serves a diverse menu featuring international cuisine with an emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients. Whether you’re craving a light salad, a hearty pasta dish, or something more exotic like sushi, you’ll find it here. I particularly enjoyed their grilled salmon, which was cooked to perfection and paired beautifully with a side of quinoa salad.
If you’re in the mood for something a bit more casual, head to the Green Garden restaurant. This spot offers a selection of light bites and snacks, perfect for refuelling between swims or sauna sessions. Their fresh smoothies and juices are a must-try, especially on a hot day.
For those with a sweet tooth, the Galaxy Restaurant has you covered with a variety of desserts and pastries. The ambiance here is a bit more relaxed, making it a great place to sit down with a coffee and a slice of cake after a long day of pampering.
What I appreciated most about the dining options at Therme Bucharest is the focus on quality and freshness. Whether you’re indulging in a decadent meal or opting for something light and healthy, you can taste the care that goes into every dish.
Sands Of Therme
Sands of Therme is a luxurious outdoor beach experience at Therme Bucharest, one of the largest wellness and relaxation centers in Europe. Sands of Therme features an expansive artificial beach with fine white sand, palm trees, and crystal-clear pools.
The area is equipped with comfortable sunbeds, cabanas, and beach bars serving refreshing drinks and snacks. Visitors can enjoy a range of activities, from lounging in the sun to engaging in water sports and fitness classes.
Sadly, this closed the first day of September so we were unable to use it.
Tips for Visiting Therme Bucharest: What You Need to Know
While my day at Therme Bucharest was insane, there are a few things you should know before you go to ensure your experience is as smooth as possible.
- No Phones Allowed in the Pools: This is one rule that Therme Bucharest strictly enforces. While you’re welcome to take pictures outside the pools, using your phone in the water is a no-go. I learned this the hard way when a staff member quickly approached me as soon as I tried to snap a photo. The rule is in place for privacy reasons, but it can be a bit frustrating if you’re used to documenting your travels.
- Bring Separate Sliders: Another quirky rule at Therme Bucharest is that you must bring sliders or sandals in a bag—you can’t wear the ones you arrive in. This rule is meant to maintain cleanliness, but it’s a bit puzzling, especially since most people aren’t bringing brand-new shoes.
- Hair Must Be Tied Up: Ladies, if you’ve got long hair, be prepared to tie it up. Staff members will hand out hair bands if they see your hair down, as loose hair can clog the pool filters. While this rule makes sense, it can be a bit of a hassle, especially if you prefer to let your hair down (wanna be influencers beware)
- Seasonal Outdoor Bars: If you’re visiting outside of the summer months, keep in mind that the outdoor bars are closed from September to June. This can be a bit disappointing if you’re expecting to enjoy a drink by the pool on a warm day. During my visit in mid-September, it was still 36°C, but the outdoor bar was closed, and I had to swim inside to order a drink. Sands of Therme also doesn’t open outside of peak summer.
- Mandatory Bag Checks: Don’t try to bring any outside food or drinks into Therme Bucharest—they check bags thoroughly at the entrance. This process can feel a bit invasive, but it’s standard procedure to ensure that no outside items are brought in.
Is Therme Bucharest Worth It?
After spending a full day at Therme Bucharest, I can confidently say that it is absolutely worth the money. Whether you’re looking to relax in a tropical setting, enjoy the thrill of a waterpark, or rejuvenate in a world-class sauna, Therme Bucharest has something for everyone. The combination of luxury, affordability, and variety makes it a must-visit destination for anyone travelling to Bucharest.
The Elysium Package, which grants access to all areas for the entire day, is particularly well worth the investment. For the price, you’re getting a full day of relaxation and fun in one of the most beautiful wellness complexes I’ve ever visited. The fact that Therme Bucharest is so easily accessible from both the airport and the city centre is just the cherry on top.
So, if you’re planning a trip to Bucharest, make sure to set aside a day for Therme Bucharest. You’ll leave feeling refreshed, rejuvenated, and ready to take on the world. Whether you’re travelling solo, with friends, or with family, Therme Bucharest is an experience you won’t want to miss.
Are you a massive fan of spas? Why not visit the Capital of thermal spas and check out the best Thermal Spas To Visit In Budapest!
