How to Book a Limousine in London: An American’s Guide

London travel moves differently. So should you.

Whether you’re flying in for business, sightseeing between meetings, or planning a day of luxury across the city, booking a limousine in London isn’t quite the same as it is in the States.

Here’s everything you need to know, from how the UK defines “limousine” to what to expect when you book, how to choose between per trip, hourly or daily hire, and why OUNO remains the easiest, smartest way to travel the capital in comfort.


Fast Facts – Booking a Limousine in London

  • Typical rate: from £25 per journey, £85–£120 per hour or from £650 per day 
  • Fleet: Mercedes S-Class, V-Class, E-Class, or EQS (electric) 
  • Booking: OUNO App or website — fixed fare quote in 90 seconds 
  • Wait time: 1 hour complimentary at airports 
  • Coverage: Greater London + all major airports

How Limousine Travel in London Differs from the U.S.

  • If you picture a stretched Cadillac with neon lighting, think again. In London, a limousine service means an executive chauffeur driving a high-spec Mercedes rather than a stretch limo. The focus isn’t flash; it’s precision, comfort, and control.Key differences every American traveller should know:
    • Driving on the left – the layout and flow are reversed, but your chauffeur handles it all. 
    • Congestion & ULEZ zones – central London charges apply to most cars, but OUNO’s electric fleet drives right through with zero fees. 
    • Tipping – entirely optional. A small gratuity is appreciated, not expected. 
    • Booking habits – while U.S. ride-hail apps rely on availability, London’s premium cars are pre-booked. For high-end service, schedule ahead. 

    Did you know?
    London’s most luxurious “limousines” are typically Mercedes S-Class or V-Class vehicles — refined, quiet, and fitted for both executives and leisure travellers


Step-by-Step: How to Book a Limousine in London

Booking your London limousine is straightforward, especially if you use a platform built for simplicity and reliability.

1. Choose your purpose

Airport transfers, business meetings, day trips, events — decide what kind of journey you’re booking for.

2. Compare providers

Look for transparency and trust. Avoid companies with unclear pricing or surge fares. OUNO’s invite-only model gives you access to vetted chauffeurs, fixed quotes, and an elite fleet.

3. Select your vehicle

  • Mercedes S-Class – for one or two passengers who want privacy and quiet luxury. 
  • Mercedes V-Class – for families, groups, or corporate travel with luggage. 
  • Mercedes EQS – all-electric sophistication, ideal for sustainable travellers.

4. Confirm details

Add your flight number if you’re arriving in the UK. OUNO chauffeurs track your flight automatically, including a full hour of complimentary wait time. You can also set up multi-stop or hourly itineraries directly in the app.

5. Book via app or web

It takes under 90 seconds to confirm your fixed fare. Your chauffeur appears on your schedule, not the other way around.

Get your fixed fare quote now.
No surge. No cancellations. Just your chauffeur, ready when you are.


By the Journey, Hourly or Daily Hire: What Suits You Best

With OUNO, you don’t have to commit to a full day when all you need is one seamless trip. Traditional chauffeur companies only offer hourly or daily rates, OUNO adds something smarter: on-demand journeys.

Whether you’re booking a single transfer, a few hours of flexibility, or a full-day itinerary, there’s an option that fits how you travel.

Hire Type Best For Typical Duration Example Cost (From) Key Benefit
By the Journey Airport transfers, theatre nights, business trips One-way or return From £25 (short city routes) Pay only for what you use — no idle time
Hourly Hire Meetings, errands, quick city hops 2–4 hours £85–£120 per hour Flexible route with driver on-stand
Daily Hire Day trips, events, multi-stop itineraries 8–10 hours From £650 (all-inclusive) Dedicated chauffeur for the entire day

Tip: If you’re an American traveller used to on-demand ride apps, OUNO’s by-the-journey model gives you that same instant access, without the uncertainty. Your limousine chauffeur, your schedule, fixed fares every time.

Related Article: Limo Hire London Prices Explained


Example Itinerary – A Day in Style

To picture how daily limousine hire works, here’s a real-world example designed for a first-time visitor from New York.

Morning: Hotel pickup in Mayfair → business meeting in the City
Late morning: Knightsbridge for shopping or Harrods
Lunch: Claridge’s or 45 Park Lane
Afternoon: Westminster photo stops → quick detour to Covent Garden
Evening: Dinner in Soho → theatre drop-off at the Lyceum

Your chauffeur waits on-stand while you explore, keeps the car cool or warm, and reroutes in real time based on traffic. The result? One smooth, unhurried day — and a single fixed fare.

Related Article: Top 5 London Experiences Worth Booking a Limo For


What to Look for When Choosing a Limo Company

London has no shortage of car services, but not all deliver the same standard. Here’s what separates the exceptional from the average:

✔️ Fixed, transparent pricing (no hidden extras)

✔️ Professional chauffeurs — suited, discreet, and experienced

✔️ Modern fleet — Mercedes, Jaguar, or fully electric vehicles

✔️ Real-time tracking & live support

✔️ Complimentary wait time at airports

✔️ Verified reviews on Trustpilot and Google

OUNO ticks every box — and adds an invite-only exclusivity you won’t find elsewhere. It’s luxury travel, simplified.


FAQs for U.S. Travellers Booking a Limo Service in London

Is it cheaper to hire a limo or use Uber Black in London?
Usually, Uber Black prices fluctuate with demand. OUNO offers fixed fares with no surge, often comparable or better for premium cars.

Do I need to tip my chauffeur?
No, tipping is optional. British chauffeurs are professionals paid a full rate.

Can I book before I arrive in the UK?
Yes. Download the OUNO app or use the website to pre-book directly from the U.S.

What counts as a “limousine” in London?
Typically a Mercedes S-Class, V-Class, or EQS. These vehicles are chauffeur-driven and licensed for executive hire.

How early should I book for airport pickups?
For international arrivals, book 24–48 hours ahead to secure preferred vehicles and drivers.


Why OUNO is the Smarter Way to Book

When you’re new to London, you don’t want to gamble on reliability. OUNO eliminates the guesswork.

  • No surge. No cancellations. 
  • Chauffeurs in suits, not hoodies. 
  • Fixed fares, confirmed instantly. 
  • Electric fleet for quiet, emission-free comfort. 

Your time is valuable — and so is how you travel.

Book your London limousine with OUNO today.

Ready when you are. Chauffeur-level efficiency at every line.


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