Our family is planning a trip to Italy at the end of May. We have 3 children, 17, 14, and 10. Since we plan to visit Rome, Florence, and Venice, we are looking for accomodations that don't require separate bedrooms in a hotel. Can anyone recommend an apartment that we can rent for 3 nights at a time or would a hostel be a better idea? We would like something inexpensive, clean, and safe. Luxury is not necessary.<BR><BR>Thanks for your help.<BR>Debra

Try the Palazzo ricasoli!!!!!!!

I can't remember the name, but a friend just told me there is a fabulous hostel in Florence, open for all ages, and with private rooms. When I see her again, I'll ask the name and post it here for you.

For our hotel in Venice we used<BR>www.guestinitaly.com<BR><BR>We were pleased with their service and the hotel was perfect. They offer hotels and apartments in all three cities.

topping<BR>

Hello. As You should know, Venice &amp; Florence are the most expensive towns in Italy. SO that, if You want to save money, You have to sleep a bit far away from those, nad (in my opinion) go visiting during daytime. If You have to rent a car (but is possible to catch a bus) near Florence a nice place is the Farm-house La presura (www.presura.it);they have small flats very nice at reasonable prices (specially in lown season). For Venice I suggest book a flat at Casalbergo La Rocca in Noale town (see:www.hotellarocca.com) is about 20 minutes far by train from Venice. They offer special rates on the week-end (pay two and stay 3 nights).<BR>In Rome .....there are plenty of hostels. Ciao, have nice time in Italy!!

Thank you so much for the suggestions. <BR><BR>Would it be easier and less expensive to rent a car to travel between cities or take the train? Has anyone used a good website for car rentals?

parkercompany.com will send you a big catalog with tons of properties for free.

In Venice we stayed at the www.pensioneaccademia.it<BR><BR>They have 2 family rooms with a separate room with twin beds and I am sure they can put another bed in the bedroom as it's a big room<BR>

Dear Debra:<BR><BR>Just my opinion:<BR><BR>If you are only seeing these three cities, do not rent a car. It will be a headache. The train system is great and fast.<BR><BR>Stay in the city to get the full feel. If you stay outside of town, you will be wasting time and not using your time more efficiently. Yes, it may be more expensive, but budget accomodations can be found. Three days in each place is not long.<BR><BR>Good luck,<BR><BR>Michelle