Therme Bucharest Elysium: Complete Sauna & Spa Guide
Experience Romania's largest sauna complex with 10 thematic saunas, luxury spa treatments, and exclusive relaxation zones. The ultimate wellness sanctuary within Therme.
Elysium Quick Facts
*Prices and features sourced from therme.ro. Spa treatments have additional costs.
Elysium Ticket Prices 2026
Elysium tickets include access to all three Therme areas — the best value for a complete experience.
| Duration | Mon-Thu | Fri-Sun & Holidays |
|---|---|---|
| 3 Hours | 132 RON (~€26) | 147 RON (~€29) |
| 4.5 Hours | 162 RON (~€32) | 177 RON (~€35) |
| Full Day | 202 RON (~€40) | 217 RON (~€43) |
| Evening Special (Mon-Thu only) | 125 RON (~€25) — available from 17:30/18:30 | |
Here's how I save money on Elysium visits: Buy a Palm ticket (102 RON weekday), enjoy The Palm pools in the morning, then upgrade to Elysium in the afternoon for just 30 RON. Total: 132 RON — same as 3-hour Elysium. But you get more flexibility and can decide based on how you feel. If the sauna area is crowded, you haven't committed to premium pricing yet.
10 Thematic Saunas Explained
Romania's largest sauna complex takes you on a journey through different cultures and temperatures. Here's your complete guide to each sauna experience.
Bavaria Sauna — Classic Finnish Heat
Temperature: ~90°C | Humidity: Low (10-15%)
The Bavaria Sauna delivers the traditional Finnish sauna experience that serious sauna enthusiasts expect. Dark wooden interiors, minimal decoration, and intense dry heat create the classic Aufguss environment. Staff performs ritual "Aufguss" sessions throughout the day — hot water infused with essential oils poured over heated stones, creating intense steam bursts.
Best for: Experienced sauna-goers who appreciate high temperatures and traditional techniques.
Amazon Sauna — Tropical Humidity
Temperature: ~50-55°C | Humidity: High (70-80%)
The Amazon recreates rainforest conditions with moderate heat and intense humidity. Tropical plants, mist effects, and aromatherapy oils (often eucalyptus or citrus) fill the air. The lower temperature makes it more accessible for sauna beginners while still delivering genuine wellness benefits.
Best for: First-time sauna users, those who find high heat uncomfortable, anyone seeking respiratory benefits.
Himalaya Sauna — Salt Therapy
Temperature: ~45-50°C | Special feature: Himalayan salt panels
Walls lined with authentic Himalayan salt bricks define this unique space. As the gentle heat releases negative ions from the salt, the air reportedly helps respiratory function and skin conditions. The pink-orange glow from backlit salt panels creates a meditative atmosphere unlike any other sauna.
Best for: Those interested in halotherapy (salt therapy), visitors with respiratory sensitivities, anyone seeking a calmer sauna option.
Hollywood Sauna — Infrared Experience
Temperature: ~35-40°C | Technology: Infrared heating
Unlike traditional saunas that heat the air, infrared saunas use light waves to directly warm your body. The Hollywood Sauna keeps air temperature relatively low while penetrating heat reaches muscles and joints. Many find this more comfortable than conventional saunas, especially those who struggle with breathing in hot air.
Best for: Those with heat sensitivity, joint/muscle recovery, anyone curious about infrared therapy.
Alhambra Sauna — Moorish Steam
Temperature: ~45°C | Humidity: Very high | Style: Hammam-inspired
Drawing from Moorish bathing traditions, the Alhambra combines steam room principles with North African aesthetics. Ornate tilework, arched doorways, and intermittent steam jets create an atmosphere reminiscent of traditional hammams. The high humidity opens pores and promotes sweating without the intensity of Finnish-style heat.
Best for: Those who prefer steam over dry heat, visitors interested in Turkish/Moroccan bath culture.
Provence Sauna — Herbal Aromatherapy
Temperature: ~65-70°C | Special feature: Lavender and herbal infusions
Named after the French lavender-growing region, this sauna emphasizes aromatherapy alongside heat therapy. Dried lavender, rosemary, and other herbs infuse the air with naturally calming scents. The moderate temperature sits between the gentler options and the intense Bavaria, making it a solid middle-ground choice.
Best for: Aromatherapy enthusiasts, those seeking stress relief, visitors transitioning to higher-temperature saunas.
Oriental Garden Sauna
Temperature: ~60°C | Theme: Asian zen garden aesthetics
Japanese-inspired minimalism meets sauna culture here. Clean lines, natural materials, and subtle scents create a meditative environment. The temperature allows for longer sessions without overwhelming intensity, making it popular for those who prefer extended relaxation over quick, intense heat exposure.
Best for: Meditation practitioners, those seeking quiet reflection, visitors who prefer longer sauna sessions.
Aegir Sauna — Nordic Cold Contrast
Temperature: ~80°C | Special feature: Adjacent cold plunge
Named after the Norse god of the sea, Aegir follows Scandinavian traditions of hot-cold contrast therapy. After heating in the high-temperature cabin, an adjacent cold water feature allows immediate cooling. This thermal shock reportedly boosts circulation, reduces inflammation, and creates an energizing effect.
Best for: Those interested in contrast therapy, visitors seeking an invigorating experience, Scandinavian sauna enthusiasts.
A Terra Sauna — Earth Elements
Temperature: ~55-60°C | Theme: Natural earth materials
Grounding elements define this sauna — stone, clay, and natural textures create a connection to earth. The moderate temperature and earthy aromatherapy (cedar, vetiver, sandalwood) aim for a centering, grounding experience rather than intense heat therapy.
Best for: Those drawn to natural aesthetics, visitors seeking grounding/centering experiences.
Ad Astra Sauna — Celestial Journey
Temperature: ~70°C | Theme: Starry night sky
Fiber optic lights create a constellation effect on the ceiling, transforming the sauna into a stargazing experience. The mid-range temperature allows visitors to lie back and contemplate the "night sky" without the intensity of hotter options. Evening sessions, when external light diminishes, deliver the most dramatic effect.
Best for: Evening visits, those seeking unique visual experiences, astronomy enthusiasts.
The Proper Sauna Circuit: A Guide for First-Timers
If you've never done a full sauna circuit, Elysium might feel overwhelming. Ten saunas, cooling pools, relaxation loungers — where do you even start? Here's my recommended approach, developed after numerous Elysium visits.
The Beginner's Circuit (2-3 hours)
- Start with Amazon or Himalaya (10-15 minutes) — Lower temperatures acclimate your body to heat exposure without shock. Let your pores open gradually.
- Cool shower — Not cold, just cool. This maintains circulation without dramatic temperature shock.
- Move to Provence or Oriental Garden (10-15 minutes) — Moderate heat builds on your initial warm-up. Focus on breathing deeply.
- Cold plunge or shower — Now try cooler temperatures. A quick dip or 30-second cold shower stimulates circulation.
- Rest in relaxation area (10-20 minutes) — Hydrate. Let your heart rate normalize. This "rest phase" is essential, not optional.
- Optional: Bavaria or Aegir (8-12 minutes) — Only if you feel ready for higher temperatures. Listen to your body.
- Final cool-down and extended rest — End with cooling and at least 20 minutes of relaxation.
Never push through dizziness, nausea, or discomfort. Exit immediately if you feel unwell. Stay hydrated — bring water into the relaxation area and drink between every sauna session. Alcohol before or during sauna use is dangerous. If you have cardiovascular conditions, consult a doctor before using high-temperature saunas.
The Experienced Circuit (3-4 hours)
For those comfortable with sauna culture:
- Warm-up shower, then straight to Bavaria for the morning Aufguss session (check posted schedules)
- Cold plunge — full immersion
- Extended rest (15 minutes)
- Alhambra steam for skin cleansing
- Himalaya for salt therapy benefits
- Cold shower
- Rest and hydration (20 minutes)
- Ad Astra for contemplative heat
- Aegir with cold contrast cycles (repeat heat-cold 2-3 times)
- Final extended rest in the Sunset Lounge or Flower Lounge relaxation areas
Se & Zn Pool: The Mineral Secret
Elysium's Se & Zn Pool contains thermal water enriched with selenium and zinc — trace elements with documented skin benefits. After your sauna circuit, a 15-20 minute soak in this mineral-rich pool helps your skin absorb these elements while the warm water (around 34°C) continues muscle relaxation.
The pool features hydromassage jets and quieter zones. Unlike The Palm's more social pool atmosphere, Se & Zn maintains a contemplative mood appropriate for post-sauna relaxation.
Spa Treatments at Elysium
Beyond the included sauna access, Elysium houses Therme's professional spa treatment facilities. These services require additional booking and fees — they're not included in your entry ticket.
Treatment Categories
- Massage Therapy: Classic Swedish, deep tissue, hot stone, aromatherapy, and Thai-inspired options ranging from 30 to 90 minutes
- Body Treatments: Scrubs, wraps, and body masks using various ingredients from sea salt to chocolate
- Facial Treatments: Deep cleansing, anti-aging, hydrating, and specialized facials
- Couple Experiences: Side-by-side treatments in dedicated couple's rooms
Booking tip: Reserve spa treatments upon arrival at Therme, not in advance from home. Walk-in availability varies with daily occupancy. Morning arrivals have the best selection of time slots. Popular treatments (60-minute massage, couple's packages) book out quickly on weekends.
Age restriction: All spa treatments require minimum age 18, even with parental consent. This is a firm policy.
The Mango Tree Restaurant
Elysium's exclusive dining venue offers something unusual: fine dining where bathrobes are perfectly acceptable attire. The Mango Tree serves à la carte international cuisine in a sophisticated setting. Menu items range from light wellness-focused dishes to more substantial options.
Reservations aren't strictly required but are recommended for weekend dinners. The unique experience of enjoying quality cuisine in spa attire makes The Mango Tree a memorable part of the Elysium experience.
Relaxation Lounges
Two dedicated relaxation areas serve Elysium visitors:
- Sunset Lounge: Heated loungers with views toward The Palm area. Quieter atmosphere, popular for post-sauna rest.
- Flower Lounge: Botanical-themed relaxation space with comfortable seating and calming aesthetics.
- Panoramic Lounge: Upper-level seating with broader views across the Elysium complex.
Unlike Galaxy's bustling lounger competition, Elysium's relaxation spaces rarely reach capacity. Finding a comfortable spot is seldom problematic, even on busier days.
Practical Tips for Elysium Visitors
What to Bring
- Two towels: One for sitting in saunas (hygiene requirement), one for drying off
- Flip-flops: Required throughout the complex
- Water bottle: Hydration is critical during sauna sessions
- Bathrobe: Rentable (39 RON) but convenient if you own one
Etiquette Notes
- Always sit on your towel in saunas — never directly on the wood
- Respect the quiet atmosphere; Elysium prioritizes tranquility over social chatter
- Shower before entering any pool or sauna
- Close sauna doors quickly to maintain temperature
- During Aufguss sessions, remain seated until the ritual completes
Best Times for Elysium
The premium nature of Elysium means it rarely reaches the crowd levels of Galaxy. However, optimal timing still matters:
- Quietest: Weekday mornings (10:00-13:00), Thursday evenings
- Moderate: Weekend mornings before 11:00, weekday evenings
- Busiest: Saturday afternoons, Sunday mid-day
I've settled into a personal Elysium routine: arrive at 10:00 on a Wednesday, head directly to the Bavaria Sauna for the first Aufguss of the day (usually around 10:30-11:00). Complete a full circuit through 5-6 saunas with proper cooling and rest phases. Around 13:00, lunch at The Mango Tree — the duck confit deserves its reputation. Afterward, 30 minutes in the Se & Zn pool, then final rest in the Sunset Lounge. By 15:00, I'm completely restored. The 4.5-hour weekday ticket covers this perfectly at 162 RON.
Elysium FAQ
If you're interested in sauna culture, absolutely. The 30 RON upgrade from Palm to Elysium grants access to 10 thematic saunas — experiences you simply can't have elsewhere at Therme. If you're primarily interested in pools and lounging, The Palm may suffice. For wellness enthusiasts, Elysium delivers exceptional value.
Teenagers 14 and older with valid ID can access Elysium's common areas (pools, lounges). However, all spa treatments and certain sauna areas require minimum age 18. Children under 14 are not permitted in Elysium under any circumstances.
Advance booking from outside Therme isn't typically available. Book treatments at the Elysium spa reception upon arrival. Popular treatments fill up, especially on weekends — arrive early morning for best selection. Weekday visitors rarely encounter availability issues.
Elysium admission includes: all 10 thematic saunas, Se & Zn mineral pool, Elysium relaxation lounges, Calla Shower, PLUS full access to The Palm (pools, bars, outdoor areas) AND Galaxy (slides, wave pool, kids' areas). Spa treatments, restaurant meals, and rentals cost extra.
No. Unlike some European spa traditions, Therme Elysium is "textile" — swimwear is worn in all areas. You must sit on a towel in saunas for hygiene, but you don't need to be nude. This makes Elysium more accessible for visitors uncomfortable with traditional European sauna culture.
Experience Elysium for Yourself
Book your Elysium tickets to discover Romania's finest sauna complex. From traditional Finnish heat to innovative salt therapy — your wellness journey awaits.
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