Venice, Italy, is one of the most popular destinations for tourists in Europe.

In 2023, the total tourist arrivals in Venice peaked at roughly 5.7 million as visitors from around the world flocked to the charming city for a taste of its art, culture and, of course, its iconic canals.

But Venice is also suffering from an influx of so many tourists that the city is struggling to cope.

Those who wish to visit a location with a similarly enchanting feel but without the congestion, Matrigues, in the south of France, has been touted as another option.

A stone’s throw from Marseille, the town of 50,000 is popular with Belgian tourists.

Like Venice, Matrigues is known for its canals, as well as its colourful houses.

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Located between the Mediterranean Sea and the Etang de Berre, the town also boasts an island district which is one of the more popular places to visit.

To get there, you’ll need to take the stairs on the Saint-Sébastien bridge.

Meanwhile, the Figuerolles park offers visitors the chance to see them some greenery.

It is a good spot for jogging, cycling, or even horse riding.

For food, Le Gusto Caffe is a Michelin-recommended Italian restaurant. The guide to the restaurant says: “In front of the Baussengue canal marina, a friendly trattoria where waiters and customers chat to each other in a cheerful and very… Italian atmosphere! Homemade pasta (spaghetti, gnocchi, etc.), sliced prosciutto di parma, great transalpine classics.

“The terrace is packed when the weather’s fine, as is the lunchtime menu, a real bargain!”