Optimising a big WordPress site

Looking a the source code of get_permalink(), that function not always generates additional queries. It depends on the particular situation. get_user_meta() is always performing aditional queries although they can be stored in wp cahe.

Take a look into Save queries for analysis and this helpful plugin. You will be able to see the total number of queries, time taking by each one and other useful information that will help you to know if using a especific function is generating aditional queries or not.