A Luxury Spa Day At Therme, Bucharest – Budget Version!
Planning a luxury spa day at Therme, Bucharest?
Recently I spent 13 hours at Europe’s largest wellbeing centre – Therme in Bucharest. This huge spa has become an internet sensation due to the impressive array of facilities for visitors of all ages. And now, having been myself, it’s easy to see why.
Here’s everything you need to know to plan your own visit:
How do I get to my luxury spa day at Therme?
The closest airport is Henri Coanda International Airport (OTP) in Bucharest. Flights are available from UK airports including London, Manchester and now Leeds Bradford.
From the airport you can take the 442 bus direct to Therme. Or take the 100 from Bucharest old town, which costs the equivalent of about 50p.
Alternatively, I recommend taking an Uber cab for speed and convenience. Rides are far cheaper than the equivalent mileage in the UK, about 6GBP on average. Or consider a combined ticket and transfer experience, like this one from Get Your Guide.
Do I need a ticket for my luxury spa day at Therme?
You can usually pay on entry at Therme. However, I recommend getting a ticket in advance, especially during the busy summer months. You can buy up to 2 months in advance on the app or 1 month on the website.
There are different pricing models depending on which areas you want to access and how long you want to stay. These range from approximately 12GBP to 33GBP. In addition, you can add towel and robe hire for a small additional charge.
What is there to do on my luxury spa day at Therme?
Areas
There are 3 main areas – Galaxy, The Palm and Elysium.
Galaxy is the family area featuring water slides and entertaining activities. The Palm is the relaxing oasis with lush vegetation and mineral pools. And Elysium is the wellness epicentre featuring 6 different thematic saunas and a sunrise terrace. The Palm and Elysium have a minimum age restriction of 14.
Features
There are too many individual attractions to list. But my favourites were the infrared light beds, the palm and outdoor pool, Himalaya sauna and the Calla shower.
Grab a map and schedule for treatment and scrub timings and even aqua class timetables.
During summer, the Sands of Therme offers a beach experience. While year-round there are multiple bars, food outlets and restaurants to choose from at very reasonable prices.
What should I bring for my luxury spa day at Therme?
A swimming costume/trunks (obvious!). Plus you’ll need 2 pairs of flip flops – 1 for outdoors and 1 new pair to wear indoors. There are lockers to secure your belongings, which are operated by a wrist band. This band also grants you access to the areas included in your ticket. And it’s your method of payment for buying food, drink and extras – you pay the balance as you exit. A fee-free debit card, like Monzo, will help avoid bank charges.
I’d also recommend bringing sunscreen/SPF for sunny days. And consider packing a light kimono/cover for walking between areas or while eating. This isn’t necessary, it’s totally your choice. But personally I found the Therme robe quite heavy to wear in hot weather.
I also used a waterproof bag to carry my belongings between areas.
Can I take photos during my luxury spa day at Therme?
I get it! You need those Instagram-worthy photos to make your friends back at home jealous! Sadly phones and cameras aren’t allowed in the pools or saunas unless you have special permission. And you’ll find this is well policed by staff.
However, you can take photos pool-side and in areas like Sands of Therme. Just be considerate to those around you, while bearing in mind others may be waiting to get the same shot.
Does a luxury spa day at Therme get busy?
Yes, Therme does get busy. BUT, it is so big that no part feels too crowded. You may struggle to get a sunbed or lounger at times, as visitors do reserve them with towels early. However, they do free up later on.
Meanwhile, there’s just so much to do. Sit in the pools and use the swim-up bars, or sit to grab food or a smoothie.
Arrive for opening if you want to book treatments, as these sell out quickly. Specifically, be at the saunas ahead of schedule for mud/scrubs as they are popular. Only those with a seat are allowed to take part.
Would you recommend a luxury spa day at Therme?
Yes! Absolutely!
For full transparency, my ticket was gifted by the lovely people at Therme. However, my opinion here is my own and in no way influenced by this. We had a really enjoyable day. And even though we stayed until late at night we still could have spent far longer there.
The facilities were so clean and well maintained, the staff friendly and the prices very reasonable. Each area offered a new experience and different vibe. The lights after dusk are just so pretty too. Therefore I’d absolutely recommend the full day holiday ticket for value and to get the most out of your visit.
Where should I stay for my luxury spa day at Therme?
Accommodation in Bucharest is really affordable. As there were 3 of us travelling together we opted for a spacious and air conditioned apartment with kitchen and balcony.
This wasn’t centrally-located, but was in a friendly neighbourhood with restaurants and coffee shops close by. And it was only a 30-minute walk or quick taxi to the old town. Certainly not bad for just 15GBP per person per night!
Address: One 88 Apartments, Strada Mihai Eminescu 188.
A luxury spa day at Therme – conclusion
So if you’re looking for the ideal girls trip or couple’s weekend then Therme Bucharest should definitely be a top contender.
Surprisingly, I found the price of flights and a Therme ticket was less than entry to many UK spas. And there were far better facilities on offer – and better weather! Not to mention the fact that food and drink is definitely cheaper there too.
Get started by searching available flights on Skyscanner, here. What are you waiting for?!
(Article contains affiliate links)
You might also like…
Have a little time to explore Bucharest? Read my one-day budget itinerary here.
<!– wp:social-links –><ul class=”wp-block-social-links”><!– wp:social-link {“url”:”https://gravatar.com/full60347392da9″,”service”:”gravatar”,”rel”:”me”} /–></ul><!– /wp:social-links –>