7 maritime villages to discover in Genoa this winter

Winter does not diminish the charm of the maritime villages of Genoa and its surroundings: from the historic villas and gardens of Voltri to the vivid colors of Boccadasse and the wonderful parks in Nervi, these small gems suspended between sea and history tell centuries of authentic traditions.

Explore the most picturesque spots around Genoa, where the scent of the sea mingles with the aroma of freshly baked focaccia, and stroll at a leisurely pace through alleys and squares where time seems to have stood still.

Let yourself be captivated by the warm light of winter sunsets on a journey that blends history and the sea, perfect for those who love to discover the true Liguria and its unmissable historic maritime villages.

Genoa’s historic maritime villages are small towns built around the city, guardians of centuries-old traditions tied to fishing and the sea. Narrow, charming alleys, colorful houses, and picturesque, authentic views make them truly enchanting.

Heading towards the Eastern Genoese Riviera, you can admire Vernazzola and Nervi; going West, don’t miss Pegli, with its charming seafront promenade, and Voltri, with its villas and gardens.

These locations, along with other villages and small towns around Genoa, retain a unique charm even in winter. The colder season highlights the quiet beauty of the alleys, the softer sunlight intensifies the colors of the houses, and the peaceful harbors invite slow, reflective walks.

It’s the perfect time to experience the authentic daily life of Liguria. How long you spend in each village depends on the pace you prefer: you can stop for a few hours to enjoy scenic walks along the waterfront, or spend a full day exploring alleys, squares, and small harbors.

Getting to these maritime villages is easy: for those who enjoy walking, Vernazzola can also be reached on foot from the center of Genoa in about an hour, following the scenic Corso Italia seafront and passing Boccadasse. In any case, both Vernazzola and the other villages are easily accessible by train or public transport.

Corso Italia has always been the heart of Genoese seaside strolls, an elegant promenade stretching for over two kilometers, dotted with Art Deco villas, historic buildings, and seaside resorts that tell the story of a century of city life. Here, the sea takes center stage during the most spectacular sunsets, when the horizon turns shades of orange and pink, and even the most hurried passerby slows down to take it in.

At the end of Corso Italia, you reach Boccadasse, one of the city’s most classic and cherished destinations. But you can choose to continue past the charming little harbor, following the quiet creuze that climb along the coast until you reach Vernazzola: a small, peaceful maritime village, particularly enchanting in winter.

Nestled around the mouth of the Vernazza stream, with its narrow streets and cobbled alleys winding between warm, colorful houses, Vernazzola offers cozy corners and an ideal atmosphere for leisurely walks, savoring the scent of the sea and taking in some of the most spectacular views along the Genoese coastline.

Nervi is an ancient fishing village that blends the charm of its picturesque harbor with the elegance of the seaside promenade known as the Passeggiata Anita Garibaldi, and the beauty of the splendid Parchi di Nervi—expansive historic gardens overlooking the sea.

In winter, Nervi takes on a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere. The mild climate makes it delightful to stroll along the waterfront or through the gardens, and on a rainy day you can explore the fascinating museums beside the parks: the Wolfsoniana, dedicated to decorative arts and early 20th-century design, and the Galleria d’Arte Moderna, home to significant Italian works from the 19th and 20th centuries.

For example, until the end of December 2025, the Gallery will host paintings and sculptures from the Quinzio family collection with the exhibition “L’Ottocento dei Quinzio. Tra realismo e colore: acquarelli, bozzetti, dipinti, sculture.” From December to March 2026, you can instead visit “Artisti, mecenati e collezionisti nella Genova dell’Ottocento,” a journey that explores the vibrant cultural scene of the city during that period.

As the sun sets, the harbor is bathed in soft pink hues, with the evening light washing over the façades and revealing the authentic soul of this unforgettable maritime village. And if you still have some time, head up to Sant’Ilario, the hillside hamlet overlooking Nervi from above. From up there, the view is truly one of a kind, and you can experience the real Liguria — surrounded by greenery, yet with the sea unfolding before you like a touch of magic.

After exploring the villages of the Eastern Riviera, we move to the West: just a short distance from the center of Genoa, Pegli emerges as a maritime village, different from Vernazzola or Nervi.

Pegli is one of those places locals love when they want a break without going too far. With its long, pleasant seafront promenade lined with palm trees, it feels like a resort from another era — discreet yet full of quiet elegance. Stop for a moment by the little beach, and you’ll see why Pegli has long been synonymous with fresh air and beautiful views.

If you’re in the mood for something cultural, head to the nearby historic park of Villa Durazzo Pallavicini, one of the most scenic in Europe. Open during the Christmas holidays, it hosts special events and guided tours that highlight its enchanting, theatrical charm.

Inside the park, don’t miss the Ligurian Archaeological Museum, home to fascinating artefacts that tell the story of the region across millennia — a journey through time that pairs perfectly with a leisurely seaside stroll.

In Voltri, you immediately feel the connection with the sea: its strategic position has, over the centuries, fostered the development of a natural harbor and a small fishing settlement. During the Middle Ages and the early modern period, Voltri was an important hub for local trade, and today it retains a compact historic center with an authentic and relaxed atmosphere, especially in winter.

You can trace its history in the noble villas, such as the splendid Villa Duchessa di Galliera, built between the 17th and 18th centuries by the Brignole Sale family and enhanced by renowned architects. The historic garden, with its tree-lined avenues, romantic woodlands, grottos, and small artificial waterfalls, offers an immersive experience in Ligurian history and nature, letting you sense the aristocratic charm of Voltri in centuries past.

After exploring the garden, head to the beach and its belvedere, a quiet corner where you can relax while watching boats gently sway on the water, with the winter light caressing the façades of the buildings and the slow pace of village life—a perfect snapshot of the most authentic Liguria.

Just outside the city center, the Ligurian landscape reveals some of the coast’s most authentic villages—truly special places where, even in winter, the sea retains an irresistible charm.

Just a few minutes by train from the heart of Genoa, Bogliasco welcomes you with its houses overlooking the Gulf of Paradiso and the narrow alleys that descend to the small sandy beach, dominated by the ancient, scenic stone bridge. Strolling through its lanes, you can discover a genuine spirit, made even more special by the scent of olive oil and the rhythmic sound of the waves.

Continuing along the Riviera, Recco is a must-visit for those who love combining flavors and tradition. The focaccia with cheese is not just a typical dish but a symbol of identity that enlivens the streets of this historic maritime village.

Finally, stop in Camogli and let yourself be captivated by the picturesque charm of its harbor, with colorful façades reflected in the water and the quiet of a village that, in winter, reveals its most authentic essence, suspended between the sea, tranquility, and ancient fishing traditions.

The historic maritime villages of Genoa and surroundings are captivating because each tells a different story, unique in its own way, and all are waiting to be discovered even in the winter season.

Here are the 7 maritime villages we explored during our journey:

- Vernazzola: reachable on foot along the scenic Corso Italia, to take in the charming alleys and spectacular views.

- Nervi: elegant seaside promenade and historic parks, not to be missed even in winter.

- Pegli: quiet village with a beautiful seafront promenade, the Archaeological Museum, and the park of Villa Durazzo Pallavicini.

- Voltri: a compact historic center, noble villas, and a seaside promenade that recall the old maritime village.

- Bogliasco, Recco e Camogli: villages around Genoa, where the sea and local traditions offer unforgettable moments even in winter.