A long layover in Perm is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Bolshoye Savino Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 100 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Pre-Departure Checklist
Three things to verify before you walk out of PEE:
- Can you legally enter Russia? Some nationalities need a visa even for a few hours. Check your passport’s validity too.
- Do you have enough time? With a 100-minute journey each way by Public Bus (Route 1T), you’ll want at least 5-6 hours total to make the trip worthwhile.
- How will you pay? Local currency is the RUB. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some RUB in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
The Best Way Into Perm from PEE
From PEE, the Public Bus (Route 1T) gets you to Perm in around 100 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 120 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Public Bus (Route 1T) offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to Budget for Your Perm Side Trip
Quick budget math for your Perm layover:
| Expense | Estimated Cost (USD) |
|---|---|
| Round-trip transport | ~$5 |
| Meal | ~$9 |
| Buffer / extras | ~$10 |
| Total | ~$24 |
Keep some small bills handy for tips, street food, and public transport in Perm.
Luggage Storage Options
You can store your luggage at Information desk in the arrivals hall often provides left luggage services, inquire there.. Rates typically depend on bag size and duration.
If the airport lockers are full or inconveniently located, services like Bounce and Stasher list verified storage spots in and around Perm as well.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
With limited time, focus on what’s accessible. In Perm, two standouts are:
- Perm Bear Monument (Legend of Perm Bear) — You can see the main features in a short visit.
- Perm State Art Gallery — Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare.
Both are realistic options even if you only have a few hours to spare.
If you’d rather stay inside PEE — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- Bolshoye Savino Airport Business Lounge
- Duty-Free & Souvenir Shops
Best Bites Near PEE
- In the city: Chaykhana Plov One (ЧайÑана Ðлов Ðдин) and Klen (ÐлÑн) are both worth a visit if you’re exploring Perm.
- At the airport: Aerocafe (ÐÑÑокаÑе) and Airport Canteen will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Taking a Break at PEE
Not every layover involves sightseeing. If you’d rather rest, PEE has seating areas throughout the terminal, though comfort levels vary. Grab a neck pillow and stake out a quiet corner.
Airport lounges — accessible via day pass, credit card perks, or services like Priority Pass — typically offer reclined seating, showers, and a quieter environment.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at PEE for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate Perm or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Perm exploring the streets or relaxing at PEE, the key is to make the time feel worthwhile. A quick city visit can turn a tedious wait into the highlight of a long travel day.
Just keep your boarding pass handy and leave plenty of time to get back. Happy travels.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.