Perm, Russia - Travel Guide

Perm offers a unique blend of industrial heritage and cultural attractions, including art galleries, theaters, and a vibrant city life set along the Kama River. It provides a glimpse into Russian provincial life with historical architecture and green spaces.

Quick Facts

Recommended Stay3 days

Budget$25/day

Mid-range$50/day

Luxury$600/day

Known For

Perm KraiUral MountainsYekaterinburgindustrial city

🇷🇺 Country Information: Russia

CapitalMoscow

CurrencyRussian ruble (₽)

Language Russian , Tatar, Ukrainian, Chechen, German, others

Phone Code+7

Electricity220V (Type C, F)

Tap WaterNot recommended

Tipping

Tipping is becoming more common in restaurants (5
10% is appreciated)
Tipping is not expected for taxi drivers but rounding up is common
Service charges may be included in hotel bills

Money & Payments

ATMs are widely available, especially in cities
Credit cards are widely accepted in cities, but cash is often preferred in smaller towns and rural areas
It is advisable to carry some cash, especially outside major cities
There is no official black market for cash, but it's best to exchange currency at official banks or exchange offices

Cultural Norms

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites
Remove shoes when entering private homes
Avoid discussing sensitive political topics with strangers
Punctuality is valued in formal settings, but being a few minutes late for social gatherings is often acceptable

LGBTQ+ Information

Exercise caution. Russia has restrictive laws against 'gay propaganda' and discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals is common. Same-sex marriage is not recognized.

Alcohol & Drug Laws

Legal drinking age is 18
Drug laws are very strict, and even possession of small amounts can lead to severe penalties

Special Laws

Photography of military or sensitive installations is forbidden
It is illegal to protest without official permission
Be aware of local registration requirements if staying for an extended period

Common Phrases

NoNet (nyet) Нет

YesDa (dah) Да

HelloZdravstvuyte (ZDRAHV-stvooy-tyeh) Здравствуйте

PleasePozhaluysta (poh-ZHAH-looy-stuh) Пожалуйста

Excuse meIzvinite (eez-vee-NEE-tyeh) Извините

Thank youSpasibo (spuh-SEE-buh) Спасибо

Climate

Climate Zone: Continental Cool

Best Time to Visit

Extreme Cold: Dec
Mar

Getting There

Fly into Perm International Airport (PEE) from major Russian cities like Moscow or Saint Petersburg
Train services are available from many Russian cities to Perm
2 railway station

Getting Around

Public buses, trams, and trolleybuses are available
Taxis can be hailed or booked via local apps like Yandex Go and Uber (though availability can vary)

Health & Vaccinations

Routine vaccinations (MMR, DTP) are recommended
Consult a doctor for specific recommendations for Russia
No specific altitude sickness, probiotics, or malaria concerns for Perm

Staying Connected

eSIM availability can vary
Major Russian providers like MTS, Beeline, and MegaFon support eSIM, but international eSIM providers like Airalo or Nomad might have limited or no coverage
Check provider websites for current compatibility

Local Cuisine

Pelmeni must_try

These are small, thin pastry dumplings, typically filled with minced meat (beef, chicken, or freshwater fish in Perm) and wrapped in a pasta-like doug

Tabani regional_speciality

A type of flatbread or thick pancake made from buckwheat flour, milk, butter, and yeast. They are a staple in the Perm region, particularly among Udmu

Talkish kaleve dessert

A sweet confection or treat made with honey and butter. This dessert is associated with the local cuisine of Perm and offers a rich, comforting sweetn

Book in Advance

Plan ahead for the best experience. Here's what to book before your trip:

🔴 Must Book in Advance

Trans-Siberian Railway Tickets (if connecting to Perm) Transport

Book 1.5 to 3 months in advance

Sleeper trains, particularly 'kupe' (4-berth compartment), often sell out quickly, especially during high travel seasons.

🟡 Recommended to Book Ahead

Accommodation (Peak Season/Events) Accommodation

Book 3 weeks to 2 months in advance

Accommodation availability can decrease and prices rise, especially during summer months, local festivals, or major business conferences.

Perm Opera and Ballet Theatre Tickets Attraction

Book 2 weeks to 1.5 months in advance

Performances by internationally renowned artists or highly anticipated premieres can sell out quickly, securing the best seats requires early booking.

Fun Facts

1. Perm was previously known by a different name, Molotov, between 1940 and 1957.
2. The city ranks fourth in Russia in terms of land area, stretching over 70 kilometers along the Kama River.
3. The town "Yuryatin" in Boris Pasternak's novel Dr. Zhivago is actually based on Perm, where Pasternak lived while writing the book.
4. The city's name is believed to originate from the Komi-Permyak word "parma," which means a hill covered with thick forest.

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