We are thinking of traveling to Rome in October 2013 and looking for recommendations for hotels and

We are thinking of traveling to Rome in October 2013 and looking for recommendations for hotels and maybe some ideas on great tour packages? WE don't mind spending a little more for a great hotel location, but probably don't want to spend $$ for a really expensive red roof inn hotel listings hotel. Any recommendations? What about area tours for day trips? Any recommendations?
We really enjoyed the Scavi tour at the Vatican and would highly recommend this! It must be booked in advance. You can put Scavi in the search and find lots of information on how to go about booking.
We used a private guide for the Colosseum/Forum/Palatine Hill and were very impressed with her. Her name is Marta and we just loved her! She had such great knowledge of the history and was able to convey this with enthusiasm.
My favorite area to stay in Rome is between Piazza Navona and the Tiber. You can walk to many, many historical sights from that vicinity. there is a pedestrian bridge that crosses the river and brings you very close to the Vatican.