Venice is so congested that it has become the embodiment of overtourism. Each year millions of tourists flock to this small city, home to a dwindling local population of 50,000, and the hordes in St. Mark's Square are legendary.

Venice is frequently crowded, but it is not "always" crowded in every part of the city. The most intense congestion occurs during "Peak Season" (April through October), particularly in the "Holy Trinity" of tourist spots: St. Mark’s Square, the Rialto Bridge, and the route connecting the train station to the center. During July and August, day-trippers from cruise ships and tour buses can make these narrow streets feel claustrophobic. However, if you visit during the "Off-Season" (late November to early February, excluding Carnival), the city is remarkably quiet, misty, and atmospheric. Furthermore, even during the busy summer months, you can escape the crowds by staying overnight and exploring early in the morning or late at night. Districts like Cannaregio or Castello remain authentic residential neighborhoods where you can walk for blocks without seeing another tourist. The city has also implemented a "Day-Tripper Fee" on specific high-traffic days to help manage the overwhelming volume of visitors.