Things To Do
in Perm
Perm sits on the Kama River in the Ural region, blending industrial history with a vibrant cultural scene. The city is known for its theaters, museums, and distinctive architecture that ranges from wooden houses to grand 19th-century façades. It serves as a gateway to the Ural foothills and surrounding natural areas, offering easy access to both city life and outdoor escapes.
Visitors can expect a friendly, evolving city with a mix of old-town charm and modern amenities.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a leisurely stroll through the historic center of Perm, admiring the stunning architecture of the 18th and 19th centuries. Visit the Perm State Art Gallery to view a collection that spans both Russian and European art, immersing yourself in the region's cultural history. Grab a traditional Russian breakfast at a local café, indulging in blini and kvass before the day unfolds.
In the afternoon, make your way to the Perm-36 Museum, a former Soviet-era labor camp, to learn about the region's complex history and gain insights into the lives of those imprisoned here. Afterward, enjoy a scenic walk along the Kama River, where you can take in the natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere of the riverside promenade. Stop for lunch at a nearby restaurant specializing in local cuisine, sampling dishes made with ingredients sourced from the nearby Ural Mountains.
As the sun sets, visit the Perm Opera and Ballet Theatre, one of the oldest theaters in Russia, to catch a captivating performance or simply admire its beautiful façade. After the show, enjoy a delightful dinner at a restaurant known for its fusion of traditional Russian dishes and modern culinary techniques. End your day with a relaxing walk through the city’s parks, soaking in the tranquil evening ambiance.
Begin your day with breakfast at a riverside café, where you can enjoy fresh pastries and coffee while taking in views of the Kama River. Afterward, embark on a guided boat tour along the river, exploring its stunning landscapes and learning about the local ecosystem from your knowledgeable guide. Keep your camera ready as you may spot various bird species and picturesque riverside villages along the way.
After disembarking, spend your afternoon at the nearby Gorky Park, where you can rent a bicycle or rollerblades to explore the expansive green spaces. Enjoy a picnic lunch under the trees, surrounded by the sounds of nature and laughter from families enjoying the day. If you're feeling adventurous, try your hand at pedal boating on the river, adding an element of fun to your afternoon.
As the evening approaches, find a cozy spot at one of the riverfront restaurants to enjoy a dinner featuring local fish dishes, enhanced by the stunning sunset views over the water. After your meal, take a leisurely stroll along the riverbank, soaking in the tranquil ambiance as the city lights begin to twinkle. Conclude your day by enjoying live music at a local venue, immersing yourself in the vibrant nightlife of Perm.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $10-15 |
| 🥗Meal for two at mid-range restaurant | $25-40 |
| 🛏️Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $60-120 |
| 🚆Monthly public transit pass | $20-40 |
| ☕Coffee at cafe | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant cultural scene with theatres, museums, and events
- Gateway access to the Ural region and nature
- Walkable city center with riverfront scenery
- Relatively affordable compared to Western European cities
- Longer travel times to some international destinations
- Limited English-language services in smaller venues
- Harsh winters require proper clothing and preparation
- "Здравствуйте" - Hello (formal)
- "Спасибо" - Thank you
- "Где находится ... ?" - Where is ... located?
- "Сколько стоит?" - How much does it cost?
- "Можно меню, пожалуйста?" - Can I have the menu, please?
- "Говорите по-английски?" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Perm
Visit one of these nice places.
Wide views of the Kama with bridges and city silhouettes, especially striking at dawn or dusk.
A grand, photogenic neoclassical façade and marble interiors ideal for architectural shots.
19th-century stone and brick buildings with ornate details and city-life backdrop.
Traditional wooden houses and mixed-era architecture offering atmospheric street scenes.
Food in Perm
Perm Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Traditional meat-filled dumplings widely available in markets and eateries; best enjoyed with sour cream and a dash of black pepper.
Must-Try!
A beet-based soup served hot or cold, typically with sour cream and rye bread on the side.
Cabbage-based soup that's comforting and filling, often paired with rye croutons or dumplings.
Savory or sweet layered pastry with fillings such as meat, mushrooms, or apples; a nice pastry option in bakeries and cafes.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling hub for fresh produce, breads, smoked fish, and ready-to-eat snacks.
Outdoor stalls offering pelmeni, pancakes, baked goods, and seasonal treats.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Polite greetings are important; handshake is common in formal settings, and people may use first names after introduction.
Respect queues and personal space; avoid loud or rowdy behavior in quiet, public areas.
Safety
Tipping in Perm
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, tipping is common; 10-15% is typical if service is not included.
Cash and credit/debit cards are widely accepted; some small stalls prefer cash, especially in markets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild to warm days, long daylight hours; great for riverfront strolls and outdoor dining, with occasional showers.
Colorful foliage and comfortable temperatures; ideal for city walks and photography of autumn light.
Cold and snowy with periods of deep freeze; indoor attractions shine and winter sports are popular.
Mild temperatures return; urban parks come alive, though early days can be muddy before the ground dries.
Perm at Night
Hiking in Perm
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Popular day hike with forested paths and panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
Riverside trails offering scenic overlooks and wildlife opportunities.
Gentle to moderate trails through northern forested areas suitable for varied fitness levels.
Airports
How to reach Perm by plane.
Main gateway for Perm region with international and domestic connections; typical routes to Moscow and other major cities.
A regional hub about 200 km from Perm; offers broader international and domestic connections; reachable by rail or car from Perm.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Predominant ethnic group with a wide range of ages and educational backgrounds.
University towns and allied industries contribute to a youthful, energetic segment of the population.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular winter sport with local clubs and games during the season.
Local leagues and matches draw city crowds; easy to catch a game if schedules align.
Winter sports are common in nearby hills and parks during the cold months.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Perm.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are fairly common; look for mushroom dishes, vegetable gravies, and dumplings filled with cheese or potato. Communicate spice and dairy preferences when ordering.