We are a family of 5 looking for accomondations in Venice and Florence. We would like one room in a central location. Open on price as long as we can all be together.
We stayed in a great little apartment in Florence last month. It sleeps 5 and is located between the Uffuzi and San Croche. They have a 3 night minium policy. I loved this place. http://www.homelidays.com/firenze/apartment-flat231261en1.htm
In Venice we called Hotel d'Art (I think one of Rick's recommended hotels). They rented us an apartment that was owned by the hotel but located nearby.
We really liked it - two bedrooms, kitchen, bathroom and living room at a great price (in October). It wasn't fancy and had no view but was centrally located, quiet, clean and functional.
In Venice: A couple of years ago, we stayed at the Hotel ai do Mori on Calle Largo. The rooms were small, but we had two rooms for our group of five. The best part was the location -- only a block away from St. Marks Square. That same trip we also stayed at the Pensione Albergo Guerrato near the Rialto Bridge. They had a wonderful room with 5 beds. You'll have to check their websites for new price info., but they were both nice, clean, and in great locations.