The authors discuss data sources and key aspects and typical problems of developing modern complex city atlases. Currently, most of the studies in the field of urban mapping in Russia are focused on applying new technologies and data sources. Researchers pay much attention to certain aspects of the problem like mapping of urban climate, soil, environment quality, tourism, urban landscapes and public infrastructure. Despite the substantial experience, making urban atlases is still associated with a number of methodological and practical challenges. Here we present the experience of development of the first complex map-set of a large city in recent years, using Perm, RF as an example. Before the present Atlas, there was no complex cartographic publication on this area, but within the framework of the special studies, maps and reference materials were developed, which reflected some aspects of the urban environment. Also in the course of the work, a series of new maps was created. We paid a special attention to the atlas structure, choice of the map scales and mapping units, obtaining and selection of source data, as well as the design of the atlas sections. The solutions presented in this paper in the field of complex urban atlases are universal and can be adapted and applied to mapping of many other RF cities