Rome - I have heard (though never stayed in) that the Hotel de Russie is fabulous. We realy enjoy the Hassler - great location at the top of the Spanish Steps - and the Westin Excelsior. There's usually a deal with Starwood that we can combine a stay at the Excelsior in Rome with...

Florence - the Grand hotel, currently under rennovations - due to be completed this month. The location is fabulous, right on the Arno river across the piazza from the Westin Excelsior. The Grand is one of our favorite hotels in the world. I, too, have heard that the FS Florence is lovely, but the location is a drawback for us.