subject: Hiring A Taxi In Italy - Tips And Tricks [print this page] Though Italy has a well connected public transportation systems, you might have to use a taxi when you need to explore remote places. In such cases, it will be useful to know a few details before hiring a taxi in Italy.
Commute only by government-regulated taxis: If you hire a taxi to travel around Italy, ensure that you travel only by registered taxis. These taxis charge you a fair rate.
Avoid booking a cab by phone call: Taxi drivers in Italy start the meter reading from the moment you book the cab. If you hire a taxi over the phone you need to pay additional charges for the distance covered to pick you up. Instead it is more economical to take one from the taxi stand.
Carry sufficient change with you: In some cases, the taxi drivers may not have change with them. To avoid having to part with your money, carry lots of change while traveling.
Negotiate a good rate: Keep away from drivers who bargain aggressively. Choose your cab wisely and your taxi fare will work out to a reasonable cost.
Always go by the meter reading: If you're unfamiliar with the routes and Italian taxi rates, it is better to insist on turning on the meter. This way you can be sure that you are paying the actual taxi rates.
Ensure that the meter is in good condition: Use a taxi only if the meter is in proper working condition. Don't take a ride in cabs that have a broken meter.
Have the address penned down in Italian: The driver may not be familiar with the name of the destination that you want to go to. To avoid delays and uncertainties, it is better to have the address written down in Italian.
Spell out the complete address: Have the address read out fully for the driver to know where exactly you want to be dropped. For example, if you want to go to the Vatican museum, tell the driver specifically to drop you at the museum.
Tips are not necessary: Not many Italians tip their taxi drivers. However, if you feel that your driver is worth it, you can definitely offer a euro or two.
When wisely used, the above mentioned tips will definitely save you from being outwitted by those shrewd taxi drivers in Italy. To have a memorable vacation in Italy, plan your trip with Perillo Tours and also get some useful Italy travel tips.
