I am planning our first trip to Europe as a family of 5. 43,40,boys 18,16 and girl 13. We like the back door approach. Any recommendations for hostales, monasteries, convents that accomodate families? Cities: Madrid, Paris, Venice, Rome.
No suggestions for hostels. But have you considered renting appartments? They often turn out to be a more affordable option for families and offer more room at the same time. Also, you might end up in neighbourhood stores to shop for a few supplies thus getting to know the city a bit better.
look into www.accorhotels.com. the Etap or Formule one hotels of this chain are good fopr no frills families.