Therme București

Therme is the opposite of a wild spring: a huge glass-domed wellness complex north of Bucharest, filled with palm trees and served by geothermal water pumped from more than 3,100 m down. The water leaves the well above 80 C, first heats the building, and then reaches the pools at about 33 to 36 C after treatment, so expect clean, warm, lightly mineral water rather than a raw sulphur soak. Three zones set the price.

Galaxy is the family area with slides and a wave pool. The Palm is adults only, with a pool under a retractable roof, mineral pools and a swim-up bar, from about 102 RON for three hours. Elysium adds themed saunas and spa rooms, about 202 RON for a full weekday.

Children under 14 may only use Galaxy. Pack swimwear and sandals in a bag; you cannot walk in already dressed for the pool. The honest downside is crowding and dynamic pricing: weekends cost more and feel busy, so book online and aim for a weekday evening ticket.