Something went wrong, please try again later. Invalid email Something went wrong, please try again later. Our free email updates are the best way to get headlines direct to your inbox Something went wrong, please try again later. Our free email updates are the best way to get headlines direct to your inbox Travellers are facing the challenge of overtourism in many of Europe's major cities, with increasing visitor numbers putting a strain on locals and businesses. This has led to protests and, in some cases, the introduction of fees for tourists entering certain cities. Venice, which draws an estimated 30 million visitors each year, was the first major tourist hotspot to implement an entry charge last year to help manage the influx of day-trippers. With the fee now set at €10, those looking for a quieter alternative might consider visiting "Little Venice" in Chioggia, just 15 miles from the famous lagoon city. Chioggia, a contender for Italy's 2024 Cultural Capital, boasts one of the country's oldest ports and a 10km beach. Consumer organisation Which? describes it as "less commercial" and "less busy" than its more famous neighbour, where tourists are even banned from sitting on bridges to eat. Chioggia's historic centre is bisected by the Canal Vena, flanked by traditional Venetian palaces and numerous footbridges, offering a serene experience akin to Venice but without the overwhelming crowds, reports the Express. A journey through the ancient houses nestled in the alleys of Chioggia will lead you to the heart of the town, where the Porta Garibaldi, a fortress from the 1300s, stands as one of many historical landmarks. No visit to the town is complete without a stop at one of its numerous bars and restaurants for an Aperol Spritz or a traditional Choggian dish. The town is renowned for its seafood, with bigoli in salsa - long pasta in a salted anchovy sauce - or peoci in cassopipia - mussels cooked in onion and garlic - being two of the most popular dishes. For those seeking a more relaxed holiday, the town offers plenty of options along its 10km beach, which has been a Green Flag recipient since 2008, recognising beaches with calm seas suitable for families with children. The sandy coast also boasts the Blue Flag award for its clean beach, and, thanks to its Mediterranean climate, the weather remains favourable until October, with highs of 20C. To reach Chioggia, fly into Venice Marco Polo Airport and take an hour-long bus or taxi ride directly to the town. Flights to Venice are available from major UK airports including London Gatwick, London Stansted, Manchester, Bristol and Birmingham, with return flights on RyanAir costing £59 in May from London Stansted.