Whether it’s planned or a surprise, a layover in Pevek gives you a genuine shot at exploring somewhere new. The trip from PWE to the city takes roughly 40 minutes by Taxi, and we’ve put together this guide to help you spend your time wisely.
Important Details Before You Go
A few things to sort out before you leave PWE:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for Russia. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Pevek takes about 40 minutes by Taxi. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is RUB. Cards are widely accepted in most places, but carrying some RUB in cash is a good idea for smaller vendors.
Top Picks for a Quick Visit
Two recommendations for your time in Pevek:
Start with Pevek Museum of Local Lore. Worth a stop if you have at least an hour to spare. Then, if time allows, make your way to Pevek Seaport and Arctic Views. A quick stop here is rewarding — great for photos.
If you’d rather stay inside PWE — 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:
- Pevek Airport Terminal Observation
- Airport Souvenir Kiosk
Food Worth Trying
For food in Pevek, local travelers recommend Restaurant Arktika. If you have time for a second stop, Cafe Polyarny is another popular pick.
Back at PWE, Pevek Airport Buffet is the go-to. Airport Vending Machines rounds out your in-terminal options.
The Best Way Into Pevek from PWE
From PWE, the Taxi gets you to Pevek in around 40 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 60 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Taxi offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Planning Your Layover Spending
You don’t need a fortune for a layover outing. Here’s a realistic estimate for Pevek:
Transport to the city and back runs about $6 USD. A sit-down meal averages around $11 USD. Add $10 for a coffee, snacks, or a small souvenir, and you’re looking at roughly $27 USD total.
Withdraw local currency from an ATM at the airport rather than using exchange counters — the rates are usually better.
Luggage Storage at PWE
Luggage storage options at PWE can vary. Rather than arriving and hoping for the best, look up nearby storage on platforms like Bounce or Stasher ahead of time.
Another option: if you’re only in Pevek for a couple of hours, a compact bag that you can carry comfortably saves you the hassle altogether.
Staying Connected
Free WiFi is generally available at PWE, which is handy for checking maps and transport schedules. For connectivity in Pevek itself, an eSIM is the easiest route — services like Airalo offer data plans for Russia that you can activate straight from your phone, no physical SIM swap needed.
Where to Rest During Your Layover
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at PWE.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Whether you spend your layover in Pevek exploring the streets or relaxing at PWE, 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.