I'm from Rome. Visit these 9 underrated, less-crowded monuments instead of the Colosseum and the Vatican.

There's a lot to see in Rome. Asia London Palomba

• I'm from Rome, Italy, and always see tourists visiting the same crowded sites.
• The Colosseum and Vatican are must-sees for first-time visitors, but the city has more to offer.

Growing up in Rome, I've become accustomed to skirting the hundreds-thick crowds that form outside iconic monuments like the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums — the Eternal City is, after all, one of the most popular cities to visit in the world.

Although I believe both monuments are must-sees for first-time visitors, the Italian city is home to many other sites that are just as historic and awe-inspiring.

Plus, with Italy's tourism numbers already hitting record levels last year, avoiding crowds will likely be as important as ever this summer.

On your next trip to Rome, forgo the Colosseum and the Vatican Museums and check out these underrated, less crowded monuments instead.