I must acknowledge that our trip to Rome was 25 years ago. Perhaps some perceptions are a bit blurred. Tourism has changed over the last decades.

There are places, thinking about Venice now, which are a clear example of touristification. Sadly, many are following their lead ( I have never seen in my city, prior to the last few years, dinner at 7pm. These days you can have it if you wish, though you will not find locals)

But, here it becomes interesting. You are not obliged to follow this trend. You can choose a different path and enjoy singularities.

Having lived in the north of England, south of Australia and south of Spain gives me different point of views. Even though western societies have similar lives, there are clear differences and this is what you need to find.