Rome has a lot happening, so settling on the "best, must-do things" can be daunting. It's OK to embrace the bucket list, especially when that list includes a UNESCO World Heritage site historic center, one of the most important ancient arenas in the world, and one of the best art collections.

You don't need me to tell you to go to the Pantheon or the Colosseum. And you absolutely should. But as a local who has lived here for 20 years, after you see those, I want you to do more. I want you to see my favorite under-the-radar sites for a true taste of the city that you won't find in most major guidebooks.