If you have never travelled with a private driver before, the first ride can feel slightly unfamiliar. Where should you sit? Is it rude to make phone calls? Can you ask for a stop on the way? Professional chauffeurs in Italy follow a fairly consistent set of habits, and knowing them helps you relax and get exactly the ride you want. Here is what to expect, and what you can ask for.
Punctuality
A professional chauffeur arrives before the agreed time, not at it. For a hotel pickup the driver is usually waiting outside a few minutes early, so that you can leave the moment you are ready. At airports, the driver follows your flight and waits in the arrivals hall with a sign showing your name. If you are going to be late, a message to the driver or to the office is appreciated, but no explanation is needed.
Greeting and luggage
Your driver greets you, introduces themselves and takes care of the luggage. You do not need to lift anything: suitcases, garment bags and skis are loaded and unloaded for you. If something fragile or important is in a bag, tell the driver so it is placed where you want it, or keep it with you in the cabin.
Where to sit
In a saloon such as the Mercedes E-Class or S-Class, the usual seat for a passenger is in the rear, often behind the front passenger seat, which gives the most legroom and the easiest exit onto the pavement. Of course you can sit wherever you like; some guests prefer the front seat on a long drive to enjoy the view. In a Mercedes V-Class the rear seats can face each other, which is ideal for families or for talking business on the way.
Conversation, calls and privacy
A good chauffeur reads the situation. If you want to talk, they will happily tell you about the city, recommend a restaurant or explain the route. If you want silence, to sleep after a night flight or to work on a call, they will drive quietly without being asked twice. Phone calls in the back of the car are completely normal, and discretion is part of the job: what is said in the car stays in the car. Drivers do not photograph clients or talk about them.
Temperature, music and stops
You can ask for the temperature, the music or the volume to be changed at any time. Many guests prefer no music at all. If you need a stop on the way, for a coffee, a pharmacy or a quick photograph, simply ask. On a fixed transfer, a short stop on the route is usually fine; a long detour may change the trip and is best agreed in advance.
Food, drinks and smoking
Water is normally available in the car. Light snacks are usually fine, but please avoid strong-smelling food. Smoking, including electronic cigarettes, is not allowed in our vehicles, both for the next passengers and because the law restricts it. If you need a cigarette break on a long drive, the driver will find a suitable place to stop.
Children and accessibility
Children must travel in a suitable child seat by law. Ask for one when you book, with the child's age, and it will be fitted before you arrive. If a passenger has reduced mobility or travels with a folding wheelchair, let us know so we can send the right vehicle and allow enough time.
Dress code and appearance
Our drivers wear formal dark clothing and keep the vehicles clean and discreet, without advertising. You do not need to dress up for the car; travel in whatever is comfortable.
Saying goodbye
At the end of the ride the driver unloads your luggage and makes sure you have everything. There is no need to pay or tip in the car: the price is agreed in writing beforehand and settled through the booking. A thank you is always enough.