Therme Bucharest is the largest indoor wellness, relaxation, and entertainment complex in Europe, located just north of Bucharest, Romania. Spanning over 34,000 square meters, this world-class facility uses thermal waters extracted from 3,000 meters underground to feed eight geothermal pools, themed saunas, and massive indoor botanical gardens. Whether you are looking for adrenaline-pumping water slides in the Galaxy zone, a refined mineral treatment in the Palm, or a high-end spa experience in Elysium, Therme offers a tropical climate of 29-30°C year-round. This comprehensive guide provides everything you need to know about ticket prices, zone differences, transport, and expert tips to maximize your visit to this Romanian architectural marvel.
The Concept of Therme Bucharest
Therme Bucharest was designed as a “wellness ecosystem” that blends nature with modern engineering. It utilizes a sophisticated filtration system that refreshes the pool water every few hours and maintains a constant indoor temperature, regardless of the harsh Romanian winters. The facility is divided into three distinct zones—Galaxy, The Palm, and Elysium—each catering to different age groups and relaxation needs.
The Galaxy Zone: Family Fun
The Galaxy zone is the heart of family entertainment at Therme Bucharest, specifically designed to accommodate children and thrill-seekers. It features the largest indoor waterslide system in Europe, totaling over 1.5 kilometers in length across 16 distinct slides. Beyond the slides, the zone includes a massive wave pool, a sandy beach area (in summer), and dedicated relaxation corners with “Himalayan salt” walls.
Galaxy Waterslides and Attractions
Each slide in the Galaxy zone is rated by intensity, ranging from family-friendly tubes to the high-speed “Quasar” and “Pulsar.” The slides utilize a state-of-the-art landing system to ensure safety for younger swimmers. For those seeking a break from the action, the Galaxy zone also offers a pool bar where you can enjoy non-alcoholic drinks without leaving the water.
The Palm: Relaxation and Nature
The Palm is the signature zone of Therme, intended for adults and children over 14 who seek a more serene environment. It is housed under a massive retractable roof and is surrounded by over 800,000 plants, including more than 500 palm trees imported from around the globe. This zone focuses on the therapeutic benefits of the thermal water, featuring a large indoor-outdoor pool and several mineral-enriched pools.
Mineral Pools and Therapeutic Benefits
Within The Palm, visitors can access three specialized mineral pools: the Lithium pool, the Magnesium pool, and the Calcium/Magnesium pool. These pools are designed to help with stress reduction, muscle recovery, and skin health. Spending 15–20 minutes in these concentrated mineral baths is recommended for the best physiological results.
Elysium: The Premium Wellness Experience
Elysium is the most exclusive area of Therme Bucharest, reserved for guests aged 16 and over. It is centered around six themed saunas, each offering a unique temperature, humidity level, and sensory experience. This zone also includes a panoramic indoor pool with a pool bar, high-end massage rooms, and the fine-dining Humboldt Restaurant.
Themed Saunas and Aufguss Rituals
The saunas in Elysium range from the “Alhambra” (oriental style) to the “Amazon” (panoramic forest view). A highlight of the Elysium experience is the “Aufguss” ritual, where “Sauna Masters” use essential oils and rhythmic towel movements to distribute heat and fragrance. These sessions occur hourly and are included in the price of admission.
Practical Information and Planning
Planning a trip to Therme requires a bit of foresight regarding timing and transport to avoid the busiest periods. The facility is located in Balotești, approximately 20 kilometers from Bucharest city center and very close to Otopeni (OTP) Airport.
Opening Hours and Peak Times
Therme is generally open from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM on weekdays and 09:00 AM to 12:00 AM on weekends. The busiest times are Saturday and Sunday afternoons; for a peaceful experience, aim for a Monday or Tuesday morning arrival.
Admission Costs and Ticket Types
Tickets are sold based on the zones you wish to access (Galaxy, Palm, or Elysium) and the duration of your stay (3 hours, 4.5 hours, or 1 day). An Elysium ticket automatically grants access to the Palm and Galaxy zones. Prices vary slightly between weekdays and weekends, usually ranging from 60 RON to 170 RON ($13–$38).
Transport and Accessibility
The most convenient way to reach Therme is by car or ride-sharing apps like Bolt or Uber, which cost roughly 50-80 RON from the city center. There is also a dedicated Therme shuttle bus that picks up passengers from various points in Bucharest, though schedules can change seasonally.
What to Bring
You must bring a swimsuit, flip-flops, and a towel. If you forget these, you can rent a towel or bathrobe and purchase flip-flops at the entrance. Note that swimming caps are not required, but long hair should be tied up.
Seasonal Events and Atmosphere
During the summer, Therme opens “Sands of Therme,” one of the largest urban beaches in Europe, complete with an outdoor tropical pool and cocktail bars. In the winter, the contrast between the snowy exterior and the 30°C tropical interior makes it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.
History and Origins
Therme Bucharest opened its doors on January 14, 2016, after years of planning by the Therme Group, transforming a site near Balotesti into Europe’s premier spa destination. Funded by private investment exceeding 160 million euros, the project aimed to create a sustainable wellness hub using geothermal water drilled from 2,500 meters underground. Today, it stands as Romania’s top tourist attraction, drawing international crowds with its eco-friendly design and record-breaking attendance.
The vision stemmed from founder Radu Zlati’s desire to bring European-style thermal baths to Eastern Europe, inspired by successful spas in Germany and Austria. Construction emphasized energy efficiency, with a massive glass roof harnessing solar gain and rainwater harvesting systems supporting over 800,000 plants inside. This botanical marvel houses Europe’s largest indoor tropical garden, featuring 1,500 palm species and rare orchids, setting Therme apart from traditional spas.
Architecture and Design
Therme Bucharest’s striking architecture features a vast glass facade spanning 42,000 square meters, creating a greenhouse effect that floods interiors with natural light year-round. Designed by Therme Group ARC, the complex integrates futuristic elements like curved steel beams and modular pools with lush greenery, evoking a fusion of nature and technology. Sustainable materials, including recycled steel and low-emission glass, minimize environmental impact while maximizing visitor comfort.
Inside, zoned layouts guide flow intuitively: open atriums connect thermal areas to adventure zones seamlessly. The Palm’s multi-level pools cascade under a 50-meter-high ceiling, while Elysium’s saunas mimic global landmarks like Japanese temples. Outdoor extensions blend into Romanian countryside views, with heated paths ensuring winter access— a design choice that extends usability to 360 days annually.
Unique engineering includes geothermal pumps maintaining pool temperatures at 33-36°C naturally, reducing energy use by 70% compared to conventional spas. Acoustic panels dampen echoes in vast halls, and LED lighting shifts hues for themed evenings, enhancing the immersive paradise feel.
Main Zones Overview
Therme Bucharest divides into three distinct zones: The Palm for relaxation, Galaxy for family thrills, and Elysium for adult luxury, each accessible via tiered tickets. The Palm welcomes all ages with serene thermal waters, Galaxy energizes with slides and waves, and Elysium offers exclusive saunas post-10 PM weekdays. This zoning ensures tailored experiences, from kid-friendly splashes to serene detox rituals.
Navigation is straightforward via a central map and app, with color-coded paths and electronic wristbands for seamless access. Over 100 attractions span indoor-outdoor spaces, supported by 12,000 plants per zone for a humid, tropical ambiance.
The Palm Zone Details
The Palm Zone centers on a massive 1.2-meter-deep thermal pool at 33-34°C, surrounded by palm trees and hydromassage jets for muscle relief. Swim-up bars serve fresh juices amid bubbling whirlpools, while outdoor extensions offer sunset dips in heated infinity pools. Lounge beds dot the perimeter, ideal for reading under diffused skylight.
Mineral-rich waters from geothermal sources provide skin-nourishing benefits, with stations for aqua gym classes and panoramic views. Families love the gentle waves; couples favor quiet corners. Open to all tickets, it’s the heart of Therme, hosting yoga sessions and live music Fridays.
Deeper features include salt water pools for joint pain relief and panoramic elevators revealing the 800,000-plant canopy. Peak times see 1,000+ visitors, but vast space prevents overcrowding.
Galaxy Zone Attractions
Galaxy Zone thrills with 15 high-speed waterslides, including the towering Entry Galaxy drop reaching 20 meters. Wave pools generate 1.5-meter surges every 90 seconds, paired with lazy rivers and interactive fountains for kids under 12. Adventure seekers tackle multi-lane racers; toddlers splash in shallow play areas.
Indoor-outdoor flow includes Galaxy Relax with calmer currents and childproof gates. Special effects like fog bursts and RGB lights amp evening fun, drawing families for full-day passes.
Recent additions feature VR-integrated slides and foam parties monthly, boosting replay value. Capacity handles 2,000 guests, with lifeguards every 10 meters.
Elysium Zone Luxury
Elysium caters to adults 16+ (10 PM weekdays), boasting 16 themed saunas up to 110°C like the Hollywood Finnish and Salt Sauna. Infinity pools overlook forests at 34°C, with swim-up bars offering wine flights. Aromatic steam rooms cycle eucalyptus and pine infusions for respiratory detox.
Exclusive cabanas rent for 100 RON/hour, complete with butler service. Nightly rituals include Aufguss ceremonies—sauna masters tossing essential oils for sensory peaks.
VIP upgrades grant private changing and champagne welcomes, frequented by celebrities for discretion.
Geothermal Waters Explained
Therme sources water from 2,500-meter boreholes, naturally heating to 45°C before filtration to remove minerals safely. Rich in sodium, calcium, and sulfates, it aids circulation, reduces inflammation, and hydrates skin per hydrotherapy studies. Pools maintain precise pH 7.2-7.6 via automated systems.
Daily testing exceeds EU standards, with ozone purification avoiding chlorine smells. Visitors report softer skin post-soak; athletes use it for recovery.
Unique to Romania’s geology, this free geothermal energy powers 80% of heating, slashing costs and carbon footprint.
Wellness and Health Benefits
Therme’s therapies leverage heat, minerals, and steam for proven benefits: improved sleep, lowered cortisol, and boosted immunity via regular saunas. Thermal immersion dilates vessels, enhancing oxygen delivery; studies show 30-minute sessions cut arthritis pain 40%.
Holistic offerings include infrared cabins for detox, cryotherapy at -110°C for inflammation, and float tanks mimicking zero gravity. Group classes like Tai Chi in Palm pools build balance.
Long-term visitors track via 3D body scans measuring fat loss—many shed 2-5% body fat over monthly passes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an age limit for Therme Bucharest?
The Galaxy zone is open to all ages, but The Palm is restricted to those 14 and older. The Elysium zone and saunas are strictly for guests aged 16 and above to maintain a quiet atmosphere.
How much does a day at Therme cost?
A full-day pass for all zones (Elysium) typically costs around 150-170 RON ($33-$38). Shorter 3-hour passes for just the Galaxy zone start as low as 60 RON ($13).
Can I go to Therme directly from the airport?
Yes, Therme is only a 10-minute drive from Henri Coandă International Airport (OTP). Many travelers visit Therme during long layovers or immediately after landing.
Is food available inside the complex?
Each zone has its own dining options, ranging from the Galaxy snack bar to the upscale Humboldt Restaurant in Elysium. You pay for food using your electronic wristband and settle the bill at the exit.
Do I need to book tickets in advance?
While you can buy tickets at the door, it is highly recommended to book online via the official website or app, especially on weekends, to guarantee entry and skip the long queues.
What is included in the ticket price?
The ticket includes access to the pools, slides, and saunas within your chosen zone. It does not include food, drinks, massages, or towel rentals.
Is the water at Therme chlorinated?
Yes, but Therme uses an advanced ozone treatment and high-tech filtration system that allows them to use significantly less chlorine than standard public pools, making it gentler on the skin.
Are there lockers for luggage?
Small lockers for clothes and bags are provided for every guest. If you have large suitcases (e.g., from the airport), there is a dedicated luggage storage area at the reception desk.
Can I bring my own food?
No, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the facility. There are multiple restaurants and bars available to suit various budgets.
Is Therme Bucharest wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the facility is designed with accessibility in mind, featuring ramps, elevators, and specialized staff to assist guests with mobility challenges.
Final Thoughts
Therme Bucharest is more than just a water park; it is a sophisticated intersection of health, entertainment, and botany. By offering a year-round tropical climate and specialized zones for families and adults alike, it has redefined the weekend getaway for both Romanians and international travelers. Whether you are sliding through the high-tech tubes of the Galaxy zone or enjoying a ritualistic Aufguss in the Elysium saunas, a visit to Therme is a mandatory experience for anyone seeking rejuvenation in Eastern Europe.
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