Book a 9am entry to dodge the heat and the bus-load crowds. Definitely pay extra for the Arena Floor ticket—standing where the gladiators actually fought changes the whole perspective. Skip the random guys in plastic armor outside; they are just traps for your wallet. Your ticket includes the Roman Forum and Palatine Hill, so block out three hours total. After you finish, walk two blocks away for actual coffee that does not cost tourist prices.
Get lost in the vibrant, narrow alleys of the UNESCO-listed city center. · Learn the secrets of the perfect Neapolitan pie from a local pizzaiolo.
