My husband and I will be traveling with

Have you tried airline miles? I know some friends who have gotten upgrades this way. I found this great article on the very subject! http://www.moneysavingexpert.com/travel/how-to-get-a-free-upgrade

Air France has a "Premium Economy Class" which has more space available at a fraction of the Business Class fare. They also have good connections from many US cities via Paris to Italy. I fly them all the time in and out San Francisco. 

Gala, that is awesome info. I hope I remember it when I go over.

Glad it helps. There is also the possibility of paying a bit extra (some 60 € ) even in standard economy class to book certain seats which have more leg space. Air France is an excellent airline and if anyone is thinking to travel business class, the standards are very high.