Alessandra Smith, spokesperson for the Italian State Tourist Board, suggested a visit to the city's former Jewish ghetto and quarters or the island opposite St Mark's bustling square.
"You can explore the old churches and the old docklands, all those areas off the square are much quieter," she added.
Her comments follow news the local government is considering restricting access to some areas of the city during its busiest period.
Enrico Mingardi, head of public transport for Venice told Italian newspaper La Nuova Venezia that tourists coming to Venice may have to pre-book their visits in future as the surrounding canal system makes St Mark's Square very crowded.
To avoid crowds of tourists or winter's cold weather and flooding, Ms Smith recommended visiting the city mid-season in spring or autumn.
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