FAQ Local Tours

What is your cancellation policy?

Written cancellation notice must be received by us at least 7 days prior to the scheduled service date. If done under these terms, you will not be held financially liable for the scheduled service. If it is not done in these terms, Joe Banana Limos & Travel reserves the right to charge your credit card for a "No-Show” or “Late Cancellation” fee, which is the total amount due for the requested service(s). Please Note: We will NOT CHARGE payment to your credit card at the time of booking unless you select this option, rather we will keep the information in our secure database reserving the right to charge your credit card for 100% of the amount of the service in the event of a “NO SHOW” or “LATE CANCELLATION”.
PLEASE NOTE: Tickets are non-refundable, non-exchangeable and non-transferable. If tickets have already been purchased when you choose to cancel or change your tour date, you will be financially responsible for the tickets purchased (payment will be automatically processed to the credit card provided at the time of booking) and unfortunately they will no longer be valid for your tour/service.

Does the driver speak English?

Yes, all of our drivers speak English well. They are all from the area you are visiting, so they have very good general knowledge of your chosen destination.

I have completed a booking form / quote request will you confirm the booking?

You will receive your voucher/confirmation email within 24 hrs of your booking/inquiry. If you haven't received anything after this time period please contact us. 

How early do I need to book my service?

The earlier the better, especially in the peak tourist season. Usually we recommend booking your service no later than 7 days before the requested date, otherwise there may not be availability.

Is your company licensed?

Yes, we are a fully licensed company and are required to abide by the regulations set by the Italy Council licensing authority.

Is the tip included in the quote? If not, how much should we tip the driver?

Tip is not included in the quote, as gratuities are not mandatory in Italy, however we do feel that if the clients are happy with their service, the driver should receive a tip as a token of appreciation. Standard gratuities in Europe run between 10 – 25% depending on the service received and your level of satisfaction.

What type of vehicles are used for services?

Our fleet is comprised of deluxe Mercedes and Volkswagen sedans, minivans, minibuses and buses. Above 8 passengers we will provide the service either with a Mercedes Sprinter minibus or multiple luxury minivans, according to our availability and local regulations. Many Italian cities have restricted the areas where certain vehicles can circulate, so in order to offer you the best service possible and to let you reach your destination as comfortably as possible, we will arrange your vehicle accordingly.

Are we able to customize itineraries?

The itineraries we provide are suggestions based on our experiences and knowledge of the areas which provides you with the optimal way to maximize your touring time. We are, however, flexible and happy to accommodate feasible requests for itinerary changes. We do reserve the right to change the order in which we visit sites, depending on traffic conditions, weather conditions, strikes/internal assemblies, or other unforeseen circumstances which may influence the planned itinerary.

What is the difference between a tour guide and a driver-guide?

A tour driver (driver-guide) and a tour guide are not the same. It is to your advantage when booking a private tour to be sure that you understand the difference and know in advance what you are paying for. A tour guide has a license, usually issued by the state / country. He or she has attended school to learn all about the sites you will see. A guide is permitted to go into the historical sites with you and tell you about the history. Naturally, their services are an additional cost. A tour driver is not licensed, has not attended "guide" school, and is not permitted inside a site to tell you about its history. Naturally, their services will be more economical. Many drivers are just as well versed in the area history as a formal guide. The difference of course is that they have to tell you the facts inside of the vehicle and once you are dropped off, he or she cannot explain anything to you about history as he or she can easily get a fine from the public police.

Why haven't I heard from you?

You should have received an automatic email in response to your booking/enquiry, please check your Spam Folder. In case you haven't received it please contact us at info@joebananalimos.com

What is your cancellation policy for the tours of Italy

Cancellation Policy is written notice 30 days prior to the scheduled tour start date without penalty. Once the cancellation period has passed, the full cost of the tour will be charged to the credit card provided at the time of booking. If cancellation is made outside of the policy period or in the event of a no show on the date the tour starts, no refund will be issued.

Where and how will I find the driver?

Your driver will be waiting for you at the confirmed pickup location (your arrival train track, at the airport arrival exit gate, at your accommodation) holding a sign with your name written on it.

What should I wear for this tour?

We suggest that you wear comfortable walking shoes as there is quite a bit of walking involved on uneven surfaces.

What should I wear if I want to visit some religious sites?

If you intend to visit religious sites, please have knees and shoulders covered (both men and women).

Is this tour accessible for people with limited walking abilities?

The itinerary can be certainly customised according to your needs, but please note that some areas may not be accessible with a stroller/wheelchair or for people with limited walking abilities. 

When is Pompeii open?

You may find the updated calendar for the site here: http://pompeiisites.org/en/visiting-info/timetables-and-tickets/

When is Herculaneum open?

You may find the updated calendar for the site here: http://ercolano.beniculturali.it/oraricontatti/

When is Mt Vesuvius open?

When is the Colosseum open?

You may find the updated calendar for the site here: https://www.coopculture.it/en/colosseo-e-shop.cfm

When are the Vatican Museums open?

You may find the updated calendar for the site here:
http://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en.html#lnav_info

I have some dietary preferences/needs, can I do this tour?

Please send us an email specifying your dietary preferences/needs, and we will advise accordingly.

When is Paestum open?

You may find the updated calendar for the site here: http://www.museopaestum.beniculturali.it/landing-page/#timetables

When is Naples musem open?

Is this tour suitable for people with limited walking abilities?

Due to the uneven surfaces in some areas, this service may not be suitable for stroller/wheelchair users or for people with limited walking abilities. 

When is Villa Adriana open?

You may find the updated calendar for the site here: https://www.visittivoli.eu/le-ville/villa-adriana&lang=EN

When is Villa d'Este open?

You may find the updated calendar for the site here: http://www.villadestetivoli.info/infoe.htm

When is the Leaning Tower open?

You may find the updated calendar for the site here:
https://www.opapisa.it/en/opening-and-closing-time/

When is the Accademia open?

You may find the updated calendar for the site here:
http://www.galleriaaccademiafirenze.beniculturali.it/galleria/

When are the Uffizi open?

You may find the updated calendar for the site here:
https://www.uffizi.it/en/the-uffizi#timetable-prices

If I want to change my tour date after tickets have been purchased, such as for the Colosseum or Vatican, will my tickets still be valid on my new tour date?

Unfortunately, as tickets are non-refundable, non-exchangeable and non-transferable, if tickets have already been purchased when you choose to change your tour date, the tickets purchased will no longer be valid for your tour. Please contact us and we will be happy to advise on entrance times for you to purchase new tickets on your own.

What type of vehicle will be used for our tour?

We provide services in luxury Mercedes and Volkswagen sedans, minivans or minibuses (depending on availability).
For parties of 1-3 guests we normally use a sedan. For parties of 4-8 guests we use minivans. And for parties larger than 8 guests we either use multiple minivans or a minibus (depending upon availability).

What is your cancellation policy?

Written cancellation notice must be received by us at least 7 days prior to the scheduled service date. If done under these terms, you will not be held financially liable for the scheduled service. If it is not done in these terms, Joe Banana Limos & Travel reserves the right to charge your credit card for a "No-Show” or “Late Cancellation” fee, which is the total amount due for the requested service(s). Please Note: We will NOT CHARGE payment to your credit card at the time of booking unless you select this option, rather we will keep the information in our secure database reserving the right to charge your credit card for 100% of the amount of the service in the event of a “NO SHOW” or “LATE CANCELLATION”.
PLEASE NOTE: Tickets are non-refundable, non-exchangeable and non-transferable. If tickets have already been purchased when you choose to cancel or change your tour date, you will be financially responsible for the tickets purchased (payment will be automatically processed to the credit card provided at the time of booking) and unfortunately they will no longer be valid for your tour/service.

What is your cancellation policy for the tours of Italy

Cancellation Policy is written notice 30 days prior to the scheduled tour start date without penalty. Once the cancellation period has passed, the full cost of the tour will be charged to the credit card provided at the time of booking. If cancellation is made outside of the policy period or in the event of a no show on the date the tour starts, no refund will be issued.

Is the Small Group Tour always guaranteed?

No, it is not always guaranteed. The minimum number of participants required for the group is 4. If this number is not reached, we will proceed with the cancellation within the timeframe specified in our Cancellation Policy.

What happens if the minimum number of participants is not reached?

If the minimum number of 4 participants is not reached, we will unfortunately need to cancel the tour. We will notify you within the specified timeframe outlined in our Cancellation Policy.

How will I be informed if the tour is canceled?

In the event of a cancellation due to insufficient participants, we will notify you within 60 days prior via the contact information provided during booking.

Can I receive a refund if the tour is canceled?

Yes, if we cancel the tour due to factors such as not reaching the minimum required participants, you will receive a full refund. Our commitment is to provide transparent and fair practices in the event of tour cancellations initiated by us. Please refer to our detailed Cancellation Policy for comprehensive information on refund procedures.

If I decide not to participate and I am outside the cancellation period, can I transfer my deposit to someone else?

Yes, you can certainly do so. Please send us an email with all the details, and we will facilitate the transfer of your deposit under the name of another person of your choice.

What is your cancellation policy for the Small Group Tour of Italy?

Requests for cancellation of services must be submitted in writing to our company. If you decide to cancel 60 days before the scheduled date, you will receive a full refund minus our fee, which is €250 per person. However, if you decide to cancel 30 days before the tour departure date, no refund will be issued. Please refer to our detailed cancellation policy for further information and specific conditions.

How do gratuities work in Italy?

Gratuities are not mandatory and never included, but if you've been pleased with the service, it's customary to show appreciation, and workers are very thankful. Generally speaking, gratuities can be 100€ full day guides, 50€ half/partial day guides, driver 75-150€ on full day use of vehicle, skipper 150-250€ for full day tours, hotel porters 3-5€ per bag, restaurants 10-20% on the total, guest ambassadors, based on service received, 1-5% on rhe total amount. Gratuities in Italy run anywhere from 10-25% depending on the services and your satisfaction with them.

Are credit cards widely accepted in Italy?

While major credit cards are generally accepted, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially in smaller establishments. Notify your bank of your travel dates to avoid any issues with card transactions.

What is the appropriate attire when visiting churches?

When visiting churches in Italy, it is important to dress modestly and respectfully. Both men and women should avoid clothing that exposes shoulders, cleavage, or knees. It is recommended to wear long skirts or pants and tops with sleeves. If you plan to visit a particularly conservative church, consider bringing a shawl or scarf to cover your shoulders.

What are the opening hours for shops and businesses?

In Italy, traditional business hours are observed, with most shops opening around 9:00 am and closing for a few hours in the afternoon (usually between 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm). Shops then reopen at around 5:30 pm. Some smaller businesses may close on Sundays, so it's advisable to plan shopping accordingly.

How do you greet people in Italy?

Greetings in Italy are typically warm and involve a handshake. It's common to greet people with a friendly "Ciao" or "Buongiorno" (good morning) during the day. In the evening or when meeting someone for the first time, "Buonasera" (good evening) is more appropriate. Italians value politeness, so don't forget to use "Grazie" (thank you) and "Per favore" (please) when appropriate.

What are hotel taxes in Italy, how do I pay them and how much are they?

In Italy, hotel taxes, known as "tassa di soggiorno" or tourist tax, are fees charged by local municipalities on guests at accommodations like hotels, B&Bs, and vacation rentals. These taxes vary based on location and accommodation type, usually calculated per person per night. They're not typically included in the room rate and are paid directly to the provider upon check-out, often in cash or added to the final bill. Exemptions may apply for certain guests, such as children or those with disabilities.

Do I need a Visa to travel to Italy?

There are discussions about changes to travel regulations, including the potential requirement for a ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) for visitors from the US to Italy. To keep up with the news we recommend you visit the following website

What is the currency used in Italy, and where can I exchange money?

The currency in Italy is the Euro (€). You can exchange money at banks, exchange offices ("cambio"), or ATMs. Banks offer competitive rates but may have higher fees. Exchange offices are convenient but compare rates. ATMs are widespread with favorable rates, but watch for bank fees. Major credit cards are accepted, but carrying cash for small purchases and emergencies is advisable.