Things To Do
in Solikamsk
Solikamsk is a historic salt-producing city in Perm Krai, Russia, set on the banks of the Kama River near the northern foothills of the Ural Mountains. It preserves a compact old town of 17th–19th century churches, merchant houses and industrial heritage tied to salt and potash mining. The city combines industrial landscapes, wooden and stone ecclesiastical architecture, and scenic river views that reward slow exploration.
Solikamsk is a good base for regional nature trips into the Vishera and Ural foothills while offering a quieter, off-the-beaten-track Russian small-city experience.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by wandering through the charming streets of Solikamsk's historic center, where wooden houses showcase traditional Russian architecture. Stop by the Solikamsk Museum of Local Lore to learn about the city's rich history and cultural heritage. As the morning sun rises, enjoy a warm pastry from a local bakery while soaking in the atmosphere.
In the afternoon, visit the iconic Church of St. Nicholas, renowned for its stunning frescoes and intricate wooden carvings. After exploring the church, take a leisurely stroll along the banks of the Kama River, where you can admire the scenic views and perhaps spot some local wildlife. Treat yourself to lunch at a traditional Russian restaurant, sampling local favorites like borscht and pelmeni.
As the evening sets in, head to the Solikamsk Drama Theater for a captivating performance showcasing local talent. You can also find a cozy café nearby to unwind with a cup of tea or coffee and reflect on your day. The city lights illuminate the streets, making for a picturesque walk back to your accommodation.
Begin your day with a hearty breakfast before heading out for an adventure on the Kama River. Rent a kayak or canoe and paddle along the serene waters, taking in the stunning natural scenery surrounding you. Keep an eye out for birds and other wildlife as you navigate through the tranquil environment.
After your morning on the water, enjoy a picnic lunch on the riverbank, surrounded by the peaceful sounds of nature. Following lunch, consider taking a guided fishing tour, where you can try your hand at catching local fish species. The afternoon sun will keep you warm as you engage with friendly locals who share their fishing techniques.
As the sun begins to set, return to Solikamsk and refresh yourself at your accommodation. In the evening, explore the local dining scene by visiting a restaurant featuring traditional Ural cuisine. Conclude your day with a leisurely walk along the river, reflecting on the beauty of the natural landscape.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $6-12 |
| ☕Coffee in a café | $1.50-3 |
| 🚌Local bus/taxi ride | $0.50-5 |
| 🏨Budget hotel / guesthouse | $25-60 |
| 🥖Groceries (weekly, basic) | $15-40 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich historical and industrial heritage connected to salt production
- Scenic river views and proximity to Ural foothills for nature trips
- Authentic, small-city Russian experience with fewer tourists than major cities
- Limited nightlife and dining variety compared with larger cities
- Seasonal extremes (harsh winters and muddy shoulder seasons)
- Fewer English-language services and limited public transport for regional travel
- "Здравствуйте" - Hello (formal)
- "Спасибо" - Thank you
- "Где находится…?" - Where is…?
- "Сколько это стоит?" - How much does this cost?
- "Извините" - Excuse me / Sorry
Places to Visit in Solikamsk
Visit one of these nice places.
Long river views, reflections, and bridges provide excellent landscape and sunset photography opportunities; early morning mist can be atmospheric in summer.
Stone and wooden churches, bell towers and old merchant houses offer picturesque architectural compositions and details from the 17th–19th centuries.
Industrial heritage — saltworks, processing facilities and mining landscapes — provides gritty, documentary-style images and insight into the city's economic history.
Nearby forests, rivers and hills deliver classic northern-Ural nature shots: birch stands, mossy rocks, and seasonal berry and mushroom scenes.
Food in Solikamsk
Solikamsk Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Locally salted or pickled river fish (such as bream or roach) are common — try them at markets or small cafés near the river.
Must-Try!
Handmade dumplings with meat or mushroom-and-potato fillings; a warming staple available at many casual eateries.
Seasonal soups, preserves and pastries made with forest mushrooms and berries sourced locally and sold at markets.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
The main market is the best place to sample smoked or salted fish, home-cured meats, fresh dairy, seasonal berries and mushrooms, and to buy local preserves.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A firm handshake and direct eye contact are common when meeting; use formal greetings (for example, 'Здравствуйте') with elders and officials.
It is customary to remove outdoor shoes when entering someone’s home; hosts may offer slippers — accept politely.
Dress modestly when entering churches: women may be expected to cover their heads with a scarf and dress conservatively; men should avoid hats indoors.
People tend to be direct and reserved with strangers; patience and a calm demeanor are appreciated, and building rapport takes time.
Safety
Tipping in Solikamsk
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory — leaving 5–10% in restaurants for good service is common in larger places; small cafés and markets usually do not expect tips. Taxi drivers may round up fares.
Cash (Russian rubles) is widely used, especially in markets and small eateries; most mid-size restaurants and shops accept cards, but in rural areas cash is essential. ATMs are available in town but carry spare cash for remote excursions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Warmest and most comfortable for travel: long daylight, temperatures typically between 15–25°C (59–77°F), lots of green landscapes and good conditions for hiking, boating and market visits. Expect mosquitoes in forests and near water; bring repellent.
Cold and snowy — temperatures often fall well below freezing (commonly -10 to -25°C / 14 to -13°F, can be colder); scenic snow-covered architecture and winter activities but dress in warm layers and prepare for limited daylight and icy streets.
Variable weather with thawing rivers and muddy trails; early spring is still chilly, but foraging season and spring festivals may begin later in the season. Some rural roads can be difficult during the thaw.
Crisp air, colorful foliage and mushroom season make it a rewarding time for nature photography and foraging trips; days shorten and temperatures drop toward late autumn.
Solikamsk at Night
Hiking in Solikamsk
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A network of protected forests and mountain-foothill trails northeast of Solikamsk offering wilderness hiking, river valleys and wildlife; ideal for multi-hour to multi-day treks with guidance.
Series of informal local trails on the low ridges and forests near Solikamsk that are suitable for day hikes, mushroom and berry foraging, and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
Gentler walks along the Kama and its tributaries with scenic river views, birdwatching opportunities and easy access from the city — suitable for families and casual hikers.
Airports
How to reach Solikamsk by plane.
The nearest major airport to Solikamsk (approximately 180–220 km by road depending on route). Regular flights to Moscow and other Russian cities; reach Solikamsk by bus, train or car from Perm.
A larger regional hub farther east (around 300+ km), with frequent domestic and some international flights; useful if combining a trip to the Sverdlovsk region and the Urals.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority population, forming the cultural and linguistic baseline of the city.
Small communities of Tatars and indigenous Finno-Ugric peoples live across the broader Perm Krai; cultural influences appear in food, festivals and local practices.
A significant portion of the population is connected to salt and potash industries or related services, shaping local daily life and economy.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Ice hockey is popular across the region with amateur and youth teams; community rinks and local matches are common in winter.
Football is widely followed and played on local pitches and school fields during the warmer months.
Cross-country skiing is a popular winter pastime on local trails and in forested areas around the city.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Solikamsk.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options exist but are limited compared with larger Russian cities. Look for mushroom-based dishes, salads, potato and cheese dishes, and vareniki with cheese or potatoes; communicate restrictions clearly and ask for simple vegetable-based sides.
Vegan choices are sparse — bring snacks if you rely on plant-based meals. Markets offer vegetables, bread, berries and mushrooms you can combine, and some cafés will prepare simple salads on request.
Gluten-free dining is not common; potatoes, meat and fish dishes are generally safe but ask about batter, breadcrumbs and sauces. Bring any specialty items you need.