F.A.Q.

Here are some of our frequently asked questions.

How can I book a service?

You can book your service online by simply sending us an e-mail with your tour requests. We will respond immediately and send a Booking Form where you will fill in the necessary information including credit card details in order to finalize your reservation.

Will we be charged if the boat does not dock on time?

The tour will go on, even if the boat is late! Because your departure hours will be extended as well, we will have time to complete our tours. The tours are only charged, according to the rates of the cancellation policy, when cancelled for other reasons in the control of the client.

What are the principle differences between an English Speaking Driver and a Tour Guide?

The Tour Guide has received schooling, if not a degree concerning the monuments of the city and Art History in general. They have a license granted by the state to guide visitors in the state museums and monuments, giving them the most specific of information available on the sites in which you are visiting. Best Rome Driver offers these guides at an additional cost. Our English Speaking Drivers can give you general information concerning the monuments as you pass them, and about the photo-op stops you make along your tour. They are not permitted inside any of the monuments or museums, even if they are quite knowledgeable about the history of the area!

How can we locate our driver upon arriving to the port or the airports?

The drivers will be waiting for you outside of customs in the airports, holding a sign with your surname printed across it. Should you encounter any lost luggage, please request to leave the customs area and notify the driver that you have arrived. You will be permitted to re-enter to state your claim of lost baggage. At the port, your driver will wait for you at the unloading dock, again holding a sign stating your surname.

Will Best Rome Driver book our Vatican and other museum tickets for us and help us to "cut" the long lines?

Best Rome Driver can book any tickets you request before your arrival; Best Rome Driver also offers Skip-Line Tickets so that you do not have to wait in long lines.

Is the 5% discount applicable for all shore excursions?

Yes, of course. If you book three shore excursions you will receive a 5% discount applied to the basic service, not including tour guides and Skip the Line tickets.

If I have a tour from Tuscany and a tour from Rome is the 5% still applicable?

Yes, of course. If you book three day tours, from either Tuscany or Rome, you will receive a 5% discount applied to the basic service, not including tour guides and Skip the Line tickets.

How much should we tip the driver, and is gratuity included in the final price of the tour?

Gratuity is not standard in Italy, nor expected. Should the client enjoy their tour, it would be lovely to tip the driver as a gesture of appreciation. The gratuity amount is up to the client, and usually runs from 10 to 15 % of the final tour price. The tour price, again, does not include the gratuity.

How should I dress when visiting Sacred Monuments? Are there any restrictions?

Shorts, mini-skirts, sleeveless shirts and bare shoulders are strictly forbidden in all places of worship. One should maintain a low speaking voice and composure, as hours of prayer are continuous and the church may be in function during your visit. Remember that you not simply visiting a museum or monument but a Holy place for those who frequent it for religious ceremonies.

What are the general business hours of Italian institutions and stores?

Generally, banks are open from 8:30 am to 1:30 pm and then again from 3 pm to 4 pm, Monday through Friday. ATM machines, called Bancomat, are generally available at all hours of the day to withdraw funds. Store hours are similar, but determined by the lunch break. The hours are normally 9 am or 10 am to 1 pm, and then again from 4 pm to 7:30 pm or 8 pm. Shops in the busiest of centers, and large department stores, may have continuous hours, and many places are closed on Sundays.

Where are the American Embassies?

There are two embassies in Rome; one for general citizens and one representing the U.S, Holy seats. Those needing consular services can go to the U.S. Consulate, 121 Via Veneto, where they can report lost or stolen passports and issue new ones, address family matters, notarize and witness documents, help you locate a doctor or lawyer, etc. The Embassy cannot help you out of legal situations, only ensure you are being treated correctly by your host country.