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Things to Do in Perm

Things to Do in Perm

Perm Perm Krai, Russia Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

Explore Perm Krai's natural landscapes.

Hiking & Trekking

Ural Mountain Trails

Opportunities for hiking and trekking exist in the foothills of the Ural Mountains, around the Chusovaya River or at local peaks.

Difficulty Levels

Trails vary from easy walks to more challenging multi-day treks.

Local Guides

For serious trekking, hiring a local guide who knows the routes and safety aspects of the Ural foothills is advisable. Find guided tours on GetYourGuide.

Water Sports & Activities

  • Riverboat Tours: Operate on the Kama River during summer (May-September), offering scenic trips.
  • Boating/Kayaking: Available on the Kama River and Kama Reservoir from local rental points during warm months.
  • Fishing: Popular on the Kama River and its tributaries, a relaxing pastime.
  • Seasonal Enjoyment: These activities are best enjoyed in warmer seasons.

Adventure Sports

  • Formal options are few within the city.
  • Rafting or caving are available in the wider Perm Krai region.
  • Tours of the Kungur Ice Cave offer caving experiences.
  • These activities typically require organized excursions.

Wildlife Encounters

  • No traditional safaris exist.
  • Wildlife viewing involves trips to nature reserves or national parks within Perm Krai, like Basegi Nature Reserve.
  • Such trips require specific arrangements and authorizations.

Cycling Routes

  • Cycling routes are present along the Kama River embankment.
  • Major parks like Gorky Park offer cycling.
  • Mountain biking trails are in forest parks around Perm.
  • For adventurous riders, paths in the Ural foothills are available.

Outdoor Safety

Safety should always be the priority. When exploring remote areas, local guidance is advisable. Inform someone of your plans.

Cultural Immersion

Engage with Perm's rich cultural heritage.

Workshops & Classes

  • Opportunities for local art or craft workshops, like pottery or traditional painting, might be available.
  • These often require Russian language proficiency or pre-arrangement with a translator.

Cultural Performances

Opera & Ballet

Attending a performance at the Perm Opera and Ballet Theatre is an important cultural experience.

Drama & Puppetry

The Perm Academic Drama Theatre offers plays. The Perm Puppet Theatre features creative performances for all ages.

Religious Traditions

During Orthodox holidays, attending church services provides a glimpse into area religious traditions.

Cultural Festivals

The Diaghilev Festival is an international arts festival held in May/June, celebrating classical and contemporary art, music, and dance.

Community Engagement

Engage with local communities through markets and local festivals. These provide genuine interactions.

Language Learning

Private Russian language tutors or short-term language courses are available for those interested in learning the language.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find opportunities for rest and rejuvenation in Perm.

Spa & Wellness Centers

  • Numerous larger hotels, for example, Four Elements Perm and Amaks Premier, offer spa and well-being facilities.
  • Stand-alone wellness centers are also available throughout the city.

Traditional & Natural Therapies

Traditional Russian Banya Sauna

A popular cultural and wellness experience for relaxation and detoxification. Public and private banyas are available.

Hot Springs & Mineral Therapies

No natural hot springs directly in Perm. Some regional sanatoriums in Perm Krai offer mineral water and mud therapies, needing travel outside the city.

Yoga & Meditation Retreats

These are limited, mainly local studios. Retreats focused on for travelers from other countries are not common.

Beaches & Pools

Outdoor Pools

Outdoor pools or designated swimming areas along the Kama River may operate during summer, weather permitting.

Indoor Facilities

Indoor pool facilities are common in larger sports complexes and hotels.

Kama River Swimming

Enjoy designated areas alongside the river for an invigorating dip during warmer months.

Entertainment & Nightlife

Perm offers various entertainment options after dark.

Live Music & Performance

  • Live Music Venues: Various pubs and bars host live music, often featuring local bands covering Russian and international hits.
  • Perm Philharmonic: Hosts classical and jazz concerts.
  • Theater and Performance Spaces: Perm Opera and Ballet Theatre, Perm Academic Drama Theatre, Perm Puppet Theatre.
  • These venues provide a variety of performances for different tastes.

Nightclubs & Socializing

Nightclubs & Dancing

Several nightclubs operate in the city center, offering different music genres and ambiances for dancing and socializing.

Bar Districts

A concentration of bars and pubs exists mainly along Lenina Street and Komsomolsky Prospekt.

Late-Night Options

Nightclubs, some cafes, and restaurants remain open late, providing options for evening entertainment.

Shopping & Markets

  • Central Market (Центральный рынок) is suitable for local flavor and daily life.
  • Local artisan shops offer Permian wooden carvings, ceramics, and textiles.
  • Luxury boutiques and international brands are in shopping malls and central streets.

Souvenir Recommendations

  • Miniature Perm Wooden Sculptures.
  • Items with Permian bear motifs, a symbol of the Krai.
  • Crafts made from local materials.
  • Traditional Russian souvenirs (e.g., matryoshka dolls, though not specific to Perm).

Shipping & Customs

  • Check with your home country's customs regulations for limits on alcohol, tobacco, and other goods.
  • Postal services (Почта России) are available for shipping purchases home.

Ethical Shopping

Support local artisans and producers directly. Avoid purchasing items made from endangered species, though this is less prevalent in Perm.

Special Events & Unique Offerings

Discover what makes Perm's activity scene distinct.

Festivals & Celebrations

  • Diaghilev Festival: An international arts festival held in May/June, celebrating classical and contemporary art.
  • White Nights Festival (Белые ночи): A major summer festival with various cultural events, though less prominent than in St. Petersburg.
  • Local folk festivals, like "Perm period festival" in the Kungur area, showcase regional heritage.

Unique Concepts

Industrial Heritage Sites

The industrial heritage sites along the Chusovaya River present emerging destinations for those who like historical industry.

Permian Period Museum

Explore the region's geological past, offering an unique educational experience.

Motovilikha Museum of Artillery History

An open-air museum displaying a vast collection of artillery, reflecting Perm's industrial prowess.

Nightlife Diversity

  • Nightclubs and bars along central streets.
  • Live music venues with local bands.
  • Perm Philharmonic for classical and jazz.
  • Late-night cafes for a relaxed evening.

Wellness Retreats

  • Spa and fitness facilities in larger hotels.
  • Traditional Russian banya (sauna) experiences.
  • Regional sanatoriums offer mineral water therapies.
  • Limited local yoga and meditation studios.

Culinary Exploration

  • Must-try dishes like Pelmeni and Posikunchiki.
  • Street food like Pirozhki and Shashlik.
  • Traditional beverages like Kvass and Mors.
  • Explore Central Market for local flavors.

Planning Resources

Adventure Booking
  • GetYourGuide for outdoor tours and adrenaline experiences.
  • Look for local operators specializing in Ural Mountain treks or going down the river on a raft.
  • Look into guided excursions for wildlife viewing in nature reserves.
Cultural & Wellness Bookings
  • Book tickets for Perm Opera and Ballet Theatre performances in advance.
  • Check festival schedules for dates and event information.
  • Contact hotels or stand-alone centers directly for spa and wellness services.

Final Tip

Perm offers a blend of natural beauty and rich cultural experiences. Schedule your activities according to the season for optimal enjoyment.

Activity Planning Summary

Recommended Activities

  • Hiking in the Ural foothills for scenic views and exploration.
  • Kama River cruises during summer for a calming perspective of the city.
  • Attending the Diaghilev Festival for international arts and performances.
  • Experiencing a world-class opera or ballet performance at the Perm Opera and Ballet Theatre.

Practical Considerations

  • Check seasonal availability for outdoor and water-based activities.
  • Pre-book tickets for popular performances and festivals.
  • Consider local guides for remote outdoor areas or specialized tours for insights.
  • Utilize platforms like GetYourGuide for convenient booking of outings and experiences.
Things to Do in Perm. Activities, Experiences, Adventures