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The Perfect 2 to 3 Days in Napa & Sonoma Itinerary

Last Updated on November 28, 2023

by Audrey Webster

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Mapping out an ideal 2 to 3 days in Napa and Sonoma itinerary can be a joyful, if not overwhelming, task. There is so much to see and do in this iconic wine region of Northern California and you don’t want to miss anything – even if you’re short on time.

Both Napa and Sonoma County have more to offer than just wineries, as well, and is known for its fantastic restaurants, charming towns like Calistoga and Healdsburg and lovely hiking opportunities. Easily reached from San Francisco, it’s also the perfect getaway from the Bay Area.

So if you’re planning a trip to California Wine Country, use this itinerary to plan a few days exploring this wonderful area.

Table of Contents

How Many Days in Napa & Sonoma?

So how many days should you spend in Sonoma and Napa in order to do the region justice? It can be tough to put your finger on it when you consider all there is to do in the area.

In general, if you want to see the highlights of both Napa Valley and dig a little bit deeper, then plan to spend at least 2 days in the area. With 2 days, this will give you ample time to visit some wineries and also explore the towns.

If time grants you a third day, venture out further to where wineries have been built on top of the hills, some straddling the line between Napa Valley and Sonoma Valley. The further you get from downtown, the more beautiful views you’ll get to enjoy while sipping the region’s most delicious wine. 

Getting To and Around Napa & Sonoma

You’ll absolutely want a car when you visit Sonoma and Napa, especially if you’re visiting for several days. Most wineries are spread out throughout the valleys. As we mentioned before, plan your days around certain regions of each valley.

This decreases your driving time between each destination and allows you to spend more time enjoying the wineries. If you need to rent a car for your trip, you can browse Rentalcars.com which shows deals across a number of major car hire companies.

You can also choose to hire a driver for the day. Most hotels in the downtown areas have connections to a driver service. You pay by the hour and are transported in your own car, which can be very convenient.

If you prefer to prebook, one option is this private wine tour for up to 6 people or this group tour if you prefer to join with other people. If you want to spend your day in style, you can even hire a private limo tour!

By hiring a driver, you remove any risk of driving while intoxicated and can rest assured you’ll be safely transported between stops during your day of wine tasting. 

2 to 3 Days in Napa & Sonoma Itinerary

Kick off your time here by spending day one exploring Napa Valley. If you have 2 days in Napa, use the second day to explore wineries seated deep in the valley and enjoy their breathtaking views. Finally, use day three to check out Sonoma Valley and downtown Sonoma. 

Day 1 – Visit Napa Valley

Explore downtown napa.

For your first day, spend the morning exploring downtown Napa. Enjoy breakfast by the waterfront, stop by Oxbow Market, and check out the many shops and tasting rooms this downtown area has to offer.

Several companies offer food and wine tours of downtown Napa. You can also opt for an historic kayak tour along the Napa River. Oenotri, Morimoto, and Allegria are three excellent food options to choose from, however there are countless opportunities for tasty meals in Napa. 

Keep in mind that downtown Napa will have more tourists than Sonoma, which is worth noting when trying to determine if you want to spend more time in Napa or Sonoma .

It’s larger and offers more commercial wineries and lodging, therefore, usually sees more tourists each year. However, if you have a morning, afternoon, or evening to spend in the area, you won’t regret it. 

Mumm Winery 

Throughout Napa Valley, you’ll find an assortment of wineries with a range of specialties. Mumm is located near Rutherford and is renowned for their sparkling wines and an excellent first stop while tasting in Napa Valley.

With roots in GH Mumm, the leading Champagne brand in France, Mumm Napa has mastered the art of sparkling wine. They use traditional French techniques in their winemaking and have been doing so in Napa since the 1970s. 

The tasting patio at Mumm overlooks vines backdropped by lush green hills. It’s quiet, quaint, and a peaceful destination to begin your wine tasting in Napa Valley. Make sure to book your reservation in advance.

Upon arrival, you’ll select which flight of wines to taste. At Mumm, you’ll sample the winery’s flagship wines as well as some of Napa Valley’s best sparkling wine. 

Pride Mountain Vineyards

If you can survive the drive to Pride, there’s a t-shirt saying such ready for purchase upon arrival. Pride Mountain Vineyards in Helena is known for its robust red wines.

A visit here includes a brief estate tour, wine cellar tour, patio tasting, and barrel tasting. The tour guide might even test your taste buds by offering a taste from a barrel and a bottle of the same wine. Can you taste a difference? 

Pride Mountain is famous for its stunning views. The curvy road to the vineyard rewards guests with outlooks over the valleys.

When visiting Pride, you might notice a brick line through the parking lot dividing the vineyard in half. This line marks where half of the winery is in Napa and half in Sonoma. Pride has several tasting options when making your reservation, so you can choose the one that works best for you. 

Domaine Carneros

As one of the most popular wineries in the Valley and a must-visit when planning a Napa itinerary, Domaine Carneros is the perfect final stop on your day of wine tasting.

The winery is known for its Pinot Noir and sparkling wines. We recommend Domaine Carneros as the final stop for the evening sunset view that comes with an end-of-day tasting here.

The estate is beautiful and stands out against the hillside. The patio at its front is where most wine tastings happen. This patio overlooks hills and valleys that are glowing in hues of pinks, yellows, and oranges during the evening hours. 

During your tasting, you’ll choose from three flights of Napa Valley wines. A flight of reds, flight of sparkling wines, and a mixed flight composed of the winery’s best of both categories. Domaine Carneros is located in the Carneros region of Napa Valley and was established in 1987.

Since it was created, the winery has been using the same traditional winemaking methods that the founding Taittinger family. It’s the perfect place to wrap up your first day of three. 

Day 2 – Calistoga & More Vineyard Tours

Explore calistoga.

Located on the northern tip of Napa Valley is Calistoga.

If you’ve heard of Calistoga before it was probably in conjunction with mud baths. The area around the town is volcanic. Many spas have transformed this natural feature into volcanically-heated mineral springs and mud baths. Downtown Calistoga is filled with shops, restaurants, and bars.

There are several spas with a variety of relaxing packages for you to enjoy. Try sitting in a mud bath followed by a massage and mineral pool soak. You can also opt to stick with just a classic massage, manicure, or pedicure. If you want to spend a night in Calistoga, that option is also available to you.

From Calistoga, you can also hop on a hot air balloon for an unmatched view over wine country. You can visit a geyser, explore Calistoga’s Petrified Forest, go for a hike on Palisade Trail, as well as visit the nearby Castello di Amorosa.

Visit St. Francis Winery & Vineyards

As one of the few certified sustainable wineries in Napa and Sonoma, St. Francis Winery is one to add to your Napa Valley itinerary. Not only is the wine delicious, but the estate is also stunning and the views from the back tasting patio are unbeatable.

While sipping from your flight of wine, you’ll look out over rows of vines toward rolling hills. St. Francis also accommodates dinner parties, large groups, and other kinds of visits aside from a classic tasting.

Visitors can also opt to take a pedal wine trolley through the vineyards to sample the winery’s most renowned wines and see the vineyard. 

Chateau Montelena

Chateau Montelena’s estate will rival some of the most famous French vineyards. A visit to this winery is in such high demand that their tastings are fully booked out months in advance.

The winery prides itself on crafting wine from traditional methods, without the assistance of modern technology. Wines from this estate have consistently ranked among the best wines of the year by countless publications. Everything from Departures to Forbes has highlighted a wine produced by Chateau Montelena. 

Your experience wine tasting at the chateau and can be as personalized as you like. Reserve a private, customized tasting with a wine specifically curated to your preferences.

Stick with a classic tasting of Chateau Montelena’s premium wines or opt for an estate tour. Regardless of the route you take, a visit to this winery ensures a memorable time. 

Day 3 – Explore Sonoma

Hike sonoma overlook trail.

To break up your time in wine tasting rooms, try getting outdoors with a short nature hike in Sonoma Valley. The Sonoma Overlook Trail is an easy and pleasant 3-mile hike that offers great views of the valley at the end.

The trailhead is just a few blocks north of Sonoma plaza, making it an easy stop during your two to three days in Sonoma and Napa.

Along the hike, visitors are treated with colorful wildflowers and local wildlife. Guests should also keep in mind that dogs, bikes, and horses are not permitted on the trails. The lower portion of the trail is usually closed during the winter. 

Those who have completed the hike remark that it’s well maintained, but it can get muddy and slippery during wet or cold weather. A hike earlier in the day lends to a quieter and more peaceful walk. The trail sees more traffic later in the day. 

Taste at Landmark Vineyards

If you’re a lover of pinot noir and chardonnay, and if you want some of the best wine in Sonoma Valley, pay a visit to Landmark Vineyards. Landmark Vineyards was founded in 1974 by the great-great-granddaughter of John Deere.

Here, grapes are aged in French oak barrels and use naturally occurring yeast to ferment the fruit. Visitors can taste in one of two places when sampling Landmark wines.

The Kenwood Estate Tasting Room and the Hop Kiln Estate Tasting Room both offer opportunities to taste the winery’s most delicious wines. 

Visit Buena Vista Winery

Buena Vista Winery is the oldest commercial winery in California wine country. Located on the southern tip of Sonoma Valley, Buena Vista was founded in 1857 and is now a California Historic Landmark.

The founder, known as the “Count of Buena Vista” bolstered an unwavering love of wine. He had a vibrant and eccentric career filled with adventures in the American West and political exile. 

The Count’s sentiment toward creating excellent wine has been carried on through the years. Buena Vista produces everything from pinot noirs to zinfandels to champagne. Visitors can choose a classic tasting on the outdoor patio or indoor tasting room.

They can also opt for a tour of the winery’s barrel room. Buena Vista Winery comes highly recommended as a destination on your Napa and Sonoma itinerary. 

Take a Bike Tour

Try mixing up how you experience Sonoma by taking a bike tour. Explore historic downtown Sonoma or nearby vineyards. Starting from Sonoma, you’ll have easy access to paved bike paths that lead you throughout the area.

You can choose to take a full-day or half-day tour. Each tour is hosted by a knowledgeable guide who provides Sonoma wine and cultural history.

Bike tours lead you through the quieter roads of Sonoma Valley to visit wineries by an off-the-beaten path route. Some options include this 16-mile bike tour that visits up to 3 wineries or this leisurely small group tour.

Many bike tours change their path each day, so if you enjoy yourself one day, feel free to hop on a bike and cruise through a different part of Sonoma the next. Bike tours offer a unique and personalized visit to Sonoma Valley. You can prebook a bike rental here where they will also give you tips on routes.

Where to Stay in Napa & Sonoma

Inn at Sonoma – If you’re looking for a luxe stay in Sonoma but still want something quiet and cute, then look no further than this hotel. They have a number of wonderful rooms available, fantastic amenities, a central location and a full breakfast and afternoon wine and hors d’oeuvres are served daily.

Archer Hotel – Another great luxury option for your time in Napa, this hotel is an excellent choice for those with a bit of a higher budget. They have a range of plush rooms available and countless amenities to ensure that your stay is a great one.

Blackbird Inn – If it’s a cute bed and breakfast you’re after, this place is a fantastic choice in Napa Valley. They have a handful of wonderful rooms available, off freshly baked biscuits daily and have a number of other options to make your time in Napa truly memorable

Cinnamon Bear Creekside Inn – Another family-run bed and breakfast, this place is a great choice for those wanting a boutique stay in Sonoma. They have a handful of clean and comfortable rooms on offer, a full English breakfast available each morning and a great location for discovering the regions.

Private Rental – If you’d rather have your own place than stay in a hotel, then a private vacation rental is a good choice for you. There are tons of options available in the area — this cottage on a private vineyard or this beautiful, modern cottage are just two great examples of many choices.

Not quite what you’re looking for? Click here to browse more Napa hotels!

There are so many great experiences to be had in Sonoman and Napa that it’s impossible to map out the perfect itinerary for everyone. However, one thing is for sure – you’ll taste some of the world’s best wines and learn about their unique histories.

Are you planning a trip to Napa Valley and Sonoma? Have any questions about this itinerary? Let us know in the comments!

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About Audrey Webster

Audrey Webster is a writer for The World Was Here First. She is an Oregon native who has visited countries across the globe and currently spends her weekends exploring the Pacific Northwest and surrounding states. Her approach to traveling combines exploring famous tourist sites and wandering off the beaten path to discover new destinations.

Hi there! we are from Canada and planning to visit Napa valley this September 2023. We are going to San Francisco and then will head to Napa Valley, we will rent a car. It is our first time to visit Napa, we are only staying for 2 full days, we just want to explore the area and do some wine tasting. For 2 days in Napa Valley, where do you think is the best area to stay and do you recommend any wine tours? Thank you!

My husband and I are planning to spend 2-3 days in Napa/Sonoma. We are active and want to hike, easy bike ride to see the scenery as well as 1-2 wineries per day if possible. Any recs? Also looking for nice hotel with great pool to enjoy

did you go? where did you stay? do you have an itinerary?

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24 Top-Rated Napa Valley Wineries To Visit

Napa Valley immediately comes to mind for many at the mention of vineyards and wineries. Undoubtedly, Northern California's wine capital is iconic for its wine production and can go head-to-head against France's famed wine regions. Often the destination for momentous occasions like proposals, bridal showers, weddings, and birthdays, Napa Valley is nothing short of ordinary. It's home to over 400 wineries, with some that have tasting rooms open to the public — one of their biggest draws. 

Now is as good a time as any to visit Napa Valley and finally understand why America's most popular wine region has rightfully earned that title. If you're able to take a trip to Napa, here are 24 must-visit vineyards. And if you can't visit, many of them can ship wine across the country. I've gathered this list based on what the winery's grounds have to offer, including the tasting experiences and wines available. More on the methodology is at the end of the article. 

Domaine Carneros

1240 Duhig Rd, Napa, CA 94559

No longer is sparkling wine relegated to just special occasions, and as a producer of traditional method sparkling wine — as well as  pinot noir — no one knows that better than Domaine Carneros.

The winery grounds are quite breathtaking, with a majestic château providing a striking backdrop to enjoy a glass of wine. Founding winemaker Eileen Crane practiced great care with each step of the process, and although she stepped down in 2020, after 42 years in the wine industry, Domaine's reputation had been set. The grapes are harvested in the middle of the night to ensure they don't take on any bitterness, and there are 18 clones of pinot noir to achieve the perfect complexity and balance throughout their wines. And Domaine Carneros is committed to sustainability, having achieved a Napa Green certification.(via Domaine Carneros ).

Master of Wine Dr. Liz Thach  described the 2013 Estate Pinot Noir as "a delightful pinot noir with classic Carneros raspberry and red cherry, complemented with subtle spicy oak and a touch of earthy mushroom. Medium-bodied, well-balanced with silky tannins."

Visitors will enjoy a variety of tasting options, including flights starting at $40 and food options including cheese, charcuterie, caviar , and even a vegan cheese board. All visitors must make a reservation , which can be done online or by calling the vineyard.

Tasting fee: Starts at $40 for non-members

1350 Acacia Dr, Oakville, CA 94562

Nestled among sprawling gardens, manicured vineyards, and wine caves is Far Niente. The estate is known for its cabernet sauvignons and has been vinifying them since 1982. The brand also grows Chardonnay.

The roots of the vineyard date back to 1885, when it was founded by John Benson, who came to California during the gold rush. Closed during prohibition, the winery was revived 60 years later.

The winery, a proud net-zero user of electricity, began using solar power in 2008. They produce more energy than they consume and organic farming is practiced across the vineyards. In describing the tasting experience,  American Winery Guide  wrote, "Tastings are intimate at Far Niente, a winery that sees so few people on a daily basis that our names and those of other guests appeared upon a chalkboard sentry that greets visitors inside the front doors. In a quaint, elegantly decorated side room, our tasting was conducted. There, we tasted through a couple different vintages of creamy, delicate Chardonnay, a couple more of rich, bold cabernet sauvignon, and finally, dolce, each paired with exquisite cheeses that truly helped to bring about the best in every wine."

The winery even offers personalized virtual wine experiences so you can enjoy the Far Niente experience anywhere in the country. Though, it's better to visit in person to witness the majestic ginkgo trees that line the drive to the estate.

Tasting fee: Starts at $120 for non-members

Brown Estate

1005 Coombs St, Napa, CA 94559

As Napa Valley's only Black-owned wine grower, producer, and bottler, Brown Estate has high expectations. Thankfully, the pressure is nothing for the family. They have built up a loyal following with delicious wine and unmatched hospitality.

The land was purchased in 1980 by Southern California doctors Bassett and Marcela Brown, who were looking for a summer home. After buying the old walnut orchard, they fixed the structures, planted the vines, and for a decade were merchants, selling their grapes to local négociants or winemakers who bottled the grapes under their own name (via MBE). Fifteen years later, their children, Deneen, Coral, and David, took over the vineyard and decided to try their hand at winemaking.

"Mom and Dad did not intend for us to break into the wine business," Deneed Brown told MBE. "They were continuing to run their medical business in Southern California and expected all of us to get our MDs and join their practice ... After we'd been growing and selling grapes for about five years, we understood that our fruit was something special based on how it was being handled by the producers who were buying it. We literally had a, 'We should bottle it and sell it ourselves!' moment." 

The Brown Estate tasting room in downtown Napa is a welcoming environment and the wines, particularly the zinfandel, are worth a try. Make the required reservation before you head out.

Tasting fee: Starts at $50

Inglenook Estate

1991 St Helena Hwy, Rutherford, CA 94573

Inglenook has existed in some form since 1879, when ship's captain Gustave Niebaum purchased the estate. Niebaum made the purchase fully intending for it to be a vineyard and winery. When the château was completed in 1887, it featured a state-of-the-art winemaking facility, California's first grape-sorting table, and also the state's first bottling line.

Director Francis Ford Coppola and his wife, Eleanor, purchased a segment of the property in 1975, and in 1995 they purchased the rest so that the château could once again return to its former glory. Inglenook isn't the oldest estate in Napa, but it has an unmatched glamour.  Napa Wine Project put it best when they said, "It is what a wine estate should look and feel like — visually stunning while containing layers of history and depth of stories collected over its 140+ years."

A few tasting options are offered at various price points, but if you'd like the full experience, the Private Library tasting and tour is $150 per person and comes with a cheese and charcuterie board. Tastings are by appointment only.

Tasting fee: Starts at $75

Beaulieu Vineyard

1960 St Helena Hwy, Rutherford, CA 94573

As a wedding backdrop, Beaulieu Vineyards is stunning. That means it's also an equally beautiful setting to enjoy a glass of wine. Beaulieu, after all, translates to a beautiful place, and it's what Fernande Latour, the wife of the vineyard's founder, exclaimed when she first visited the site. The vineyard is one of the longest continually operated wineries in Napa Valley and has been in operation for more than 100 years.

The vineyard currently offers indoor and outdoor tastings, some of which are cabernet-centric. Visitors can choose more in-depth tastings based on preference and budget. Beaulieu specializes in wines made from cabernet sauvignon, but you'll be able to taste their other wines like Chardonnay , sauvignon blanc, and pinot noir.

In addition to crafting high-quality wines, Beaulieu Vineyards also works with some cloned grapes. If you want to geek out and learn the more scientific side of wine, this is a great vineyard to visit.

St. Clair Brown Winery & Brewery

816 Vallejo St, Napa, CA 94559

If you're interested in checking out a woman-led winery in Napa, don't miss St. Clair Brown. The winery — which is also a brewery — is located in the Rail Arts District of Napa and the tasting room is just across the street. Because the wines are made in such limited quantities, they are not available in stores. You're definitely in for a treat by stopping by.

Co-founder Elaine St. Clair is a 30-year Napa Valley veteran and a UC Davis graduate, so she has more than enough winemaking chops to craft a beautiful wine. But as the only woman in the country to hold a commercial title of winemaker and brewmaster, she takes the term "trailblazer" to another level.

President and co-owner Laina Brown, formerly director of marketing at Domaine Carneros Winery, joined forces with St. Clair to create a place where their passions could be expressed.

The wines of St. Clair Brown run the gamut from bold reds like the Estate Syrah, which is bursting with dark fruit and smooth tannins, to a bright, crisp sauvignon blanc. Pay the pet-friendly winery and brewery a visit to partake in a wine tasting or a beer tasting. Reservations are required.

Tasting fee: Starts at $30 (beer) and $60 (wine) for non-members

901B Enterprise Way, Napa, CA 94558

The J. Moss tasting room in Napa is available by appointment only. But a visit to this family-owned and operated winery is more than worth it.

Husband-and-wife duo James and Janet Moss, both seasoned wine industry professionals, bought some plots of land in 1998 and began to make small batches of cabernet sauvignon (via Skurnik ). James is the winemaker and proprietor, and Janet, who worked for a decade at Domaine Carneros, is the managing director. As James tells Skurnik, "As far as the day-to-day business, it all starts with Janet."

Their winery offers a pleasant alternative to the corporate-run vineyards and wineries that are all over the region. While there's space for both in Napa Valley, the smaller, family-run operations offer a level of hospitality that just can't be duplicated. James himself often hosts the tastings.

While J. Moss has a true passion for cabernet sauvignon, the brand also produces Chardonnay and merlot.

Tasting fee: Starts at $45

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

5766 Silverado Trl, Napa CA 94558

A vineyard visit to Stag's Leap Wine Cellars will result in a thorough tour with great stories. That's because this is the winery that won the 1976 Judgement of Paris competition with its cabernet sauvignon. The competition pitted French and Californian wines against one another in the ultimate showdown. Stag's Leap's bottle of 1973 S.L.V. cabernet ranked higher than several other well-respected Bordeaux wines, proving once and for all that California was a wine region to start taking seriously.

Considering its history, it's no surprise that Stag's Leap will be a bit more traditional in the tasting experience. If you opt to request a tour through the grounds, you'll be able to get even more insight into how the wines are made. Tastings need to be booked in advance, and some include a cave tour.

Tasting Fee: Starts at $95

Heitz Cellar

500 Taplin Rd, St Helena, CA 94574

Heitz Cellar dates back to 1961 when it was founded by Joseph Heitz. The winery has been organically farming since 1984 and biodynamically farming since 2019. While the property is not the grandest in Napa, it captures a charming slice of history and makes for a lovely visit.

In 2018, the winery changed hands, with the Lawrence family taking over the Heitz legacy and making some minor but impactful changes. As Eric Asimov of the New York Times wrote, "The changes have been small tweaks, aimed at improving the texture of the wine and working in a less formulaic way, depending on the needs of a particular wine." It's an exciting time to taste Heitz Cellar's wine.

There are four tasting options available, but reservations are required and may be booked on the Heitz Cellar website.

4240 Silverado Trl, Napa, CA 94558

You should walk into Darioush Winery with high expectations — and those expectations are warranted. Darioush produces wines in many different styles across many different lines. Its Signature Series comprises its flagship wines, such as merlot, cabernet sauvignon, and shiraz, while the Duel line blends unexpected grapes such as cabernet sauvignon and shiraz.

Not only are the wines unique, but the entire experience is as well. Every detail of the winery is decked out in elegant Persian décor, and guests can expect to have a more immersive experience at Darioush. With its stately pillars and lush landscaping, it's evident that the Darioush team values aesthetics. As for the experiences, there are several options, ranging from signature wines along with light fare to a full-on dinner with wine pairing . All reservations can be booked directly on the Darioush website.

Tasting fee: Starts at $90

Stony Hill Vineyard

3331 St Helena Hwy N, St Helena, CA 94574

Stony Hill is yet another vineyard that reminds you that Napa doesn't have to be a congested experience. There are some places that are magical and serene — and offer remarkable wine to boot. 

This vineyard actually dates back to 1943, when husband-and-wife duo Fred and Eleanor McCrea established a place to explore their love of French white wines. So it's no surprise that the vineyard currently specializes in white wines and vinify a riesling, Gewurztraminer, Chardonnay, and cabernet sauvignon.

The hospitality is charming, and the grounds are a relaxing place to sip on a glass of wine. A visit to Stony Hill feels like you are visiting a distant relative ... one who just so happens to make really good wine. The vineyard offers two types of tastings, which can be booked via email or phone.

Tasting fee: Starts at $75 for non-Napa Valley residents

Castello di Amorosa

4045 St Helena Hwy, Calistoga, CA 94515

Can't make it to Tuscany? Pay a visit to Castello di Amorosa instead. It's owned by the same family as V. Sattui, but it has a completely different atmosphere. If you want grand, sprawling, and ornate, Castello di Amorosa will not let you down. 

Construction for the castle began in 1994 and took 15 years to complete. According to the owner's wishes, it was built in true Medieval style — there's a moat, a chapel, a courtyard, a drawbridge, and even a torture chamber. 

There's no shortage of choice for wine lovers, but Catello di Amorosa has a special fondness for Italian grapes. Look out for several wines made from barbera, sangiovese, and vermentino, along with California favorites pinot noir, cabernet sauvignon, and Chardonnay.

We love that they also produce and sell non-alcoholic grape juice so that if there are those who don't drink in your group, they can still partake in the tour and not feel left out. Reservations are required to enter the property. You can add a cheese board or a tour to the tasting for an additional cost. 

Tasting fee: Starts at $60 for non-members

Duckhorn Vineyards

1000 Lodi Ln, St Helena, CA 94574

Duckhorn Vineyards is the ideal place to visit to break up the Napa routine a bit. It's neither monstrous in size nor is it boutique, so you'll find yourself right at home if you're seeking something in the middle. They were founded in 1976 and were the first American winery to tout merlot as a luxury wine. Today, you'll find a relaxed environment with fantastic wine.

In a review for  The Infatuation , Will Kamensy notes, "For wine tastings, they pour Duckhorn, instead of the cheaper bottles of Decoy [a Duckhorn brand] you see everywhere. If you can convince them to let you try their red blend called the Discussion, do it — it's incredible."

In addition to Duckhorn Vineyard's merlot, cabernet sauvignon, and their famous red blends, it also produces Chardonnay and sauvignon blanc.

Tastings can be booked via phone or email.

Tasting fee: Starts at $65

401 St Helena Hwy, St Helena, CA 94574

Art is at the forefront of everything Hall Wines does. This is evident by the wines' labels. Jack's Masterpiece, for example, features a white square with colorful primary-colored paint splatters. The Hall Coeur label features overlapping mandalas of various colors. And that love of art trickles over to their winery grounds as well. They are perhaps best known for their large stainless-steel rabbit sculpture, Bunny Foo, but there are also mandalas and blown-glass sculptures hanging around nearly every corner.

This makes for a lively tasting experience and definitely not one that you've experienced before. Because the engaging setting is backed up by the wine, it makes for an all-around feast for the senses. The winery specializes in cabernet sauvignon, but the assortment also includes some sauvignon blanc and merlot for good measure.

Hall Wines' experiences range in price point, and some welcome walk-ins while others require reservations.

Tasting fee: Starts at $40

Joseph Phelps

200 Taplin Rd, St Helena, CA 94574

The Joseph Phelps winery was founded by its namesake in 1973. As one of the first California estates to experiment with grapes from France's famed Rhône Valley, it's known for helping to increase the popularity of grenache, syrah, and Mourvèdre in the United States.

It's still family-run and operated today, and its St. Helena estate offers tastings, including a chef's tasting menu, culinary experiences, and tours of spaces like the vineyard. Visit Joseph Phelps if you're into superb wine in a lovely setting. And for fans of architecture that leans on restoration, the Joseph Phelps site is a mix of old and new. Wooden beams alongside floor-to-ceiling glass windows are a nod to this. The winery has been renovated several times since it was originally built in the early 1970s and still holds onto some vintage charm. 

Tasting fee: Starts at $115 

Tres Sabores

1620 S Whitehall Ln, St Helena, CA 94574

Julie Johnson was one of the first Napa grape growers to get organic certification (via Travel Curious Often ). She was a trendsetter then, and today, she's still making her own path as Tres Sabores' owner and winemaker. It's one of the few Napa wineries that allow children and dogs, which gives the whole area a lighter, more casual feel. That's definitely not a bad thing. The whole team is warm and welcoming.  

At Tres Sabores, guests will likely have a more intimate experience and may even be able to taste pomegranate from the property's trees and the grapes used for winemaking. 

Come for the zinfandel, petite sirah, and petit verdot, and stay for the experience! Guests are welcome to bring their own picnic affair to pair with the winetasting, though it would be an additional charge per person, dependent on the size of the group. A cheese and charcuterie platter or a lunch arrangement on the property are also available at an extra cost.

Tasting fee: Starts at $60

Quintessa Winery

‍1601 Silverado Trl, St Helena, CA 94574

Quintessa is a vineyard on 280 acres of beautiful Saint Helena land. They grow cabernet sauvignon, merlot, cabernet franc, petit verdot, and carménère ... all of which are farmed biodynamically. It's one of only a handful of Napa Valley wineries to make the claim. 

The grounds are dotted with modern buildings and furnishings. Less is clearly more with both winemaking and décor here. To be immersed in beautiful scenery and winemaking passion, Quintessa does not disappoint. In the "more-is-more" world of Napa, Quintessa's understated design and vibe is a welcome change of pace. 

There are a few different wine-tasting experiences to choose from, but whichever you choose, be ready to put on your walking shoes, as touring the expansive space is included. Appointments are required, and to make a reservation to visit this wondrous place, you can call or email Quintessa.

Tasting fee: Starts at $125

V. Sattui Winery

1111 White Ln, St Helena, CA 94574

If you had to visit one place to give you a feel for what Napa is all about, it would be V. Sattui. That's not to say it's the best or that other wineries are somehow a worse experience, but V. Sattui has a lively environment that is quintessentially Napa. It's also great for parties and large groups. 

The winery's namesake, Vittorio Sattui, started the winery in 1885. He had to shut down during Prohibition, and the winery was not operational again until 1976, when his great-grandson, Dario, brought it back to life.

Today, V. Sattui produces a range of red, white, sparkling, and dessert wines. They can be enjoyed with the food at the on-site artisan deli and marketplace for quick bites that aren't too fussy. Picnic tables and a picnic area on more than two acres of shaded grounds are available for visitors to use.

It's laid back and a welcoming place to have a glass of wine while taking in the surroundings. V. Sattui shows that good wine is nothing without some good friends with which to share it. Reservations are required for all wine tastings.

Tasting fee: Starts at $45

7900 St Helena Hwy, Oakville, CA 94562

Robert Mondavi and Baron Philippe de Rothschild partnered up in 1978 to create Opus One, an unprecedented wine brand that aimed to combine knowledge from two renowned winemaking families.

Visiting Opus One is for those looking for a more serious, formal tasting, and as Know Wines notes, there are a few things to consider before booking. If you're a fan of bolder Bordeaux-style blends, you'll fall head over heels for these wines. And if you're into architecture and art, you'll also fall in love with Opus One. It's not nearly as casual and fast-paced as some of Napa's other wineries, and while it's definitely not your lighthearted tasting, the experience and the beautiful grounds make for a remarkable experience.

All experiences are by appointment only and may be enjoyed as a flight in the courtyard or in a private room at different price points.

Tasting fee: Starts at $125

Sterling Vineyards

1111 Dunaweal Ln, Calistoga, CA 94515

After Sterling Vineyards underwent renovations to repair the damages that the Glass Fire of 2020 caused, it's back better than ever. 

Though Sterling Vineyards' iconic aerial tram — the world's first and only one at a winery — was damaged during the fire, it was replaced during the renovations and now offers full, unobstructed (and unmatched) views of the Napa Valley. 

Unlike some other vineyards on this list, Sterling is not a small family-owned or operated business. It's owned by Treasury Wine Estates, the company behind some other major wine brands like 19 Crimes, Penfolds, and Beringer Bros. 

If you're a fan of heavier reds, you'll appreciate Sterling Vineyards' assortment, which includes wines like zinfandel, cabernet franc, malbec, and cabernet sauvignon. You can buy the wines online or, better yet, book a wine tasting experience. Reservations are encouraged, but walk-ins are welcomed.

Tasting fee: Starts at $55 for non-members

Spottswoode

1902 Madrona Ave, St Helena, CA 94574

Spottswoode is Napa Valley's first B Corp-certified winery, a fact that really speaks to its dedication to environmental efforts. The multi-generational business has committed to a sustainable and transparent approach, which involves meeting baseline requirements and passing rigorous assessments.

This makes visiting its St. Helena vineyard that much more of an enchanting experience. The estates' grounds are well manicured with pathways and landscaping that feels more like 1920s France than 2020s California. The visit is more intimate, so you'll feel as though you're part of the family.

All visits and tastings must be scheduled, which you can do by phone, email, or on its website. The tasting fee is a small price to pay to walk the grounds and sip on wines like Spottswoode's cabernet sauvignon, sauvignon blanc, and syrah, which is exclusively offered to Spottswood wine club members.

Tasting fee: Starts at $150 for non-members

Keenan Winery

3660 Spring Mountain Rd, St Helena, CA 94574

A visit to Napa Valley will have you spoiled for choice. With so many different types of wineries, it's almost impossible to make the decision on which one is worth a visit. But if you're interested in sustainable farming, consider visiting Keenan Winery. This is Napa's off-the-beaten-path. Not only is this winery solar-powered, but it's also sustainably farmed. As a green winery, Keenan is dedicated to minimizing waste and preserving water and energy. 

Visiting this winery will be a more intimate experience as you taste your way through at least six different offerings like cabernet sauvignon and merlot and have the opportunity to purchase one (or more) that you like. There is only one wine-tasting experience to choose from, which takes place in a ventilated room. Visitors are required to make reservations for the tastings. Well-behaved dogs are also welcomed onto the property. 

Robert Mondavi

930 3rd St, Napa, CA 94559

There might not be a Napa as we know it without Robert Mondavi, as he was the first major Napa winery to open post-Prohibition. Mondavi was also vocal about Napa Valley and all it had to offer, according to The Washington Post . For that reason alone, it's worth paying a visit to Robert Mondavi Winery. But when you add in the luxurious grounds and the lovely views, Robert Mondavi is a no-brainer. 

The tastings take place at its new downtown space, Arch and Tower. The winery also offers savory snacks at an extra cost and a lunch option that's prepared with locally sourced ingredients to go with the wine. Most of the tasting offerings require a reservation in advance. 

Mondavi's wine, such as cabernet sauvignon, pinot noir, and Chardonnay, combined with their stately grounds make it a Napa experience to remember.

Caymus Vineyards

8700 Conn Creek Rd, Rutherford, CA 94573

While Caymus may not be the most buzzworthy name in Napa, it's got cred as a vineyard with longevity. Wine Spectator magazine has referred to it as "an icon among Napa cabernets."

And it's a Forbes ' writer's top bottle. "Along the way, I have learned that there is no such thing as a 'best' wine, and each great bottle and varietal is suited to certain foods or occasions," says Larry Olmstead. "But that does not mean I can't have a favorite. I do, and it is Caymus."

But we don't go to vineyards solely for the wine. There has to be some level of ambiance and, above all, the hospitality should be warm and welcoming. Caymus, in Rutherford, checks all of those boxes. Also, their tasting fee is more affordable than some of the other big names in Napa. If you opt for a tasting, you'll be guided through five wines and hear the history of the Caymus Vineyards. Reservations are required and can be made on the Caymus website.

Methodology

Napa Valley has no shortage of wineries, which can be overwhelming when you're trying to select one place to spend your time and money. So, I've taken the liberty to compile a list of the 24 top-rated Napa wineries based on the type of tastings offered and their price points, the wineries' features, especially its grounds, and reviews from notable wine publications.

• Destinations
• Winery Directory

35 Best Napa Wineries & Wine Tasting Tours for 2024

These are Some of the Best Napa Valley Wineries and Wine Tours, Along with Recommended Restaurants & Vineyard Hotels for Unique Tasting Experiences in 2024.

Napa Valley is  the most important wine region in the United States. It was the first American wine region to be fully internationally recognized for producing high-quality wines. And, the Valley has risen to the challenge with world-famous places to eat, drink, and stay.

In this Napa wine tasting guide, we explore wineries, tours, restaurants, and hotels in Napa to craft the ultimate wine country experience for Winetravelers.

Best Napa Wineries & Things to Do This Year

Napa wineries along st. helena highway.

St. Helena Highway runs north and south through most of the towns that dot Napa Valley. In fact, visitors can get a great overview of Napa Valley’s various AVAs just by driving along it! The following wineries can be found on or just off of St Helena Highway (aka Route 29/128), from south to north.

Domaine Chandon

1 California Drive, Yountville

(888) 242 6366

Why Guests Love It: Sparkling Wine, VIP Service, Food & Bubbly Pairings

Every wine tasting tour should start with bubbly, and Domaine Chandon is here to heed the call! Located just off St Helena Highway, the serene grounds provide the perfect backdrop to sip some sparkling and soak in the good life. Cheers!

Nickel & Nickel

8164 St Helena Hwy, Oakville

(707) 967-9600

Why Guests Love It: Single Vineyard Cabernets, Library Wines, Exceptional Service

Since Napa Cabs are really what put California on the global winemaking map, be sure to stop off at Nickel & Nickel . With a range of single vineyard Cabernets to try, it’s a fascinating trip through Napa terroir, all with premier white glove service. Try some older vintages if they’re available to see how beautifully Napa Cab can age.

RELATED: Learn More about Napa’s History, Terroir and Grape Varieties

Sequoia Grove

8338 St Helena Hwy, Rutherford

(707) 944-2945

Why Guests Love It: Classic Cabernets, Boutique Feel, Food & Wine Pairings

Sequoia Grove is almost the little engine that could in Napa, not because it’s any less mighty but because it’s lowkey and relaxed. It’s definitely worth stopping in, though, because the wood-timber building surrounded by sequoias and cypresses gives a distinctive Northern Californian feel. Everything produced is fantastic but take note of the quintessential cedar notes in their Cabs. They’re a standout.

Grgich Hills

1829 St Helena Hwy, Rutherford

(707) 963-2784

Why Guests Love It: Historical Winery, Picnic Tastings, Eco-Focused

Named after its founders, Mike Grgich and Austin Hills, Grgich Hills is one of the more legendary wineries in Napa. Founded in 1977, it has consistently produced stellar wines to be tasted in an equally stellar stone building. Bonus: As of 2006, it uses only estate-grown fruit from its organic, biodynamic, and solar powered winery.

Corison Winery

987 St Helena Hwy, St Helena

(707) 963-0826

Why Guests Love It: Critically Acclaimed Wines, Female Winemaker, Vineyard Views

True trailblazers seem in short supply these days but thankfully Cathy Corison is still here. Year in and year out, she crafts award-winning Cabs from specific vineyard designations. She also produces a stunning Gewürztraminer and Riesling, both of which sing when paired with food. Be sure to snap up what you can because her wines consistently sell out.

401 St Helena Hwy South, St Helena

(707) 967-2626

Why Guests Love It: Stunning Artwork, Female Winemaker, Exceptional Wines

If the whimsical rabbit sculpture isn’t enough to make you stop, the wines most certainly will! Kathryn Hall comes by her craft genetical, having worked in her family’s vineyards north in Mendocino before striking out on her own. And although the Cabs are fabulous, cross the varietal line and taste their Merlots. You’ll be wowed.

The Salon at Heitz Cellar

436 St Helena Hwy, St Helena

(707) 963-2047

Why Guests Love It: Historical Winery, Cheese & Charcuterie Boards, Age-Worthy Wines

Heitz has been around since 1961 – yes, you read that correctly. Everything about Heitz speaks to tradition, from the vineyard selections to the woodblock-esque labels. It’s worth stocking up here and laying some down to age because Heitz is known to develop beautifully for years.

Freemark Abbey

3022 St Helena Hwy N, St Helena

(800) 963-9698

Why Guests Love It: Historical Winery, Stunning Architecture, Library Wines

Housed in a historic stone building that dates back to 1899, Freemark Abbey has consistently been a winery for over a century (except that during that little hiccup known as Prohibition). It further cemented its name in oenological history by being one of only twelve wineries invited to compete in the 1976 Judgement of Paris. Today, the wines remain standouts and tasting here brings guests on a trip through Napa history. 

Sterling Vineyards

1111 W Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga

(800) 726-6136

Why Guests Love It: Breathtaking Views, Tram Rides, Award Winning Wines

Sterling Vineyards unfortunately sustained significant damage during the Glass Fire of 2020 and has since been undergoing reconstruction. The good news for everyone is that it is due to reopen in the Spring of 2023! Sterling has been a longtime favorite because of the stunning views. Plan ahead to book a tour that includes a tram ride to the top of the vista point and sip through their lineup. It’s worth the wait.

Tank Garage Winery

1020 Foothill Blvd, Calistoga

(707) 942-8265

Why Guests Love It: Art Deco Architecture, Intriguing Wines, Small Production

Of all wine tasting experiences through Napa, Tank Garage is probably the most unique because it’s located in a 1930s Art Deco gas station! Tank isn’t for the faint-of-heart – the people there are known for sprinkling salty language around, but they sure provide a fun experience. The wines are just as interesting with everything from orange pét-nat to carbonic Grenache.

Larkmead Vineyards

1100 Larkmead Lane, Calistoga

(707) 942-0167

Why Guests Love It: Outdoor Patio, Warm Customer Service, Bordeaux-style Wines

Situated in the heart of the Napa Valley on Larkmead Lane, between St. Helena and Calistoga, Larkmead Vineyards is framed by the breathtaking Mayacamas and Vaca mountain ranges. This picturesque setting provides an idyllic backdrop for #Winetravelers. Upholding a tradition of warm hospitality, Larkmead offers visitors exclusive guided tours of the estate, followed by a seated tasting experience in a private setting with expansive views of the vineyards. The selection of wines featured in each tasting varies throughout the year. Tasting experiences are available by appointment only, daily from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. To reserve your visit, please email [email protected].

Top Napa Wineries along the Silverado Trail

Silverado Trail runs somewhat parallel to St Helena Highway on the east side of Napa. The two are close enough together to make it very easy to toggle between, but Silverado is decidedly quieter because village centers are found on St Helena Highway.

Baldacci Family Vineyards

6236 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 944-9261

Why Guests Love It: Wine Cave, Outdoor Terrace, Exceptional Reds

Located in Napa Valley’s prestigious Stags Leap District, Baldacci Family Vineyards is a family-owned estate renowned for its exceptional wines. Under the meticulous care of winemaker Michael Baldacci, the vineyard produces a limited portfolio of elegant, classically styled Cabernet Sauvignons that are delightful when young yet possess the complexity to age gracefully. These exquisite wines come from some of Napa Valley’s most celebrated vineyards, including estate-owned plots in Stags Leap District, Calistoga, and Diamond Mountain District. The portfolio also features a variety of red blends, sparkling wines, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and a late harvest Gewürztraminer.

The Estate House in Stags Leap District offers an intimate and educational wine tasting experience, set in a luxurious and welcoming environment. Baldacci Family Vineyards provides a perfect blend of sophistication and hospitality, making it a must-visit destination for any wine enthusiast.

Chateau Montelena

1429 Tubbs Lane, Calistoga

(707) 942-5105

Why Guests Love It: Stunning Architecture, Napa History, VIP Service

Chateau Montelena is the perfect start to a day of winetasting. This gorgeous stone chateau is home to some legendary wines, including the Chardonnay that beat out white Burgundies in the 1976 Judgement of Paris. Taste through their elegant line up of Cabs or go rogue and try their Riesling – everything is stunning.

Clos Pegase Winery

1060 Dunaweal Ln, Calistoga

(707) 942-4981

Why Guests Love It: Sleek Architecture, Quirky Sculptures, Cave Tours

Clos Pegase breaks rank with modern architecture and the quirky “friendship bench” but the wines are no less delightful. With a range of flight options, guests are encouraged to taste through all that Napa has to offer in a relaxing, elegant environment. Be sure to try all of the reds.

Honig Vineyard & Winery

850 Rutherford Rd, Rutherford

(707) 963-4272

Why Guests Love It: Eco Tours, Sustainable Winery, Fabulous Whites

Honig means ‘honey’ in German, which is denoted with the whimsical bees on Honig labels. And, Honig is true to its love of bees by being certified sustainable and solar powered. Book the Eco tour to learn all about Honig’s green practices before tasting through some beautiful wines, including their Sauvignon Blanc.

8445 Silverado Trail, Rutherford

(800) 686-6272

Why Guests Love It: Beautiful Views, Classic Sparkling Wine, Cheese Pairings

Is it bubbly time yet? Mumm Napa provides the best of French winemaking and Napa views. Guests can choose to taste through the delightful sparkling wines in a variety of settings, from patio seating to terrace tasting with cheese pairings.

8383 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 963-5188

Why Guests Love It: Beautiful Views, Organic Farming, Warm Hospitality

Although technically in another town, ZD is just down the road from Mumm and is definitely worth the stop. While ZD may be smaller than some of the huge Napa wineries, it is no less impressive and produces rich, luscious wines that manage to maintain perfect balance. Taste through the lineup, or book a tour with sample of library wines.

Quixote Winery

6126 Siverado Trail, Napa

(707) 944-2659

Why Guests Love It: Quirky Atmosphere, Estate Tours, Food & Wine Pairings

And now for something completely different! To experience Quixote Winery is to experience a quirky, carnivalesque atmosphere while tasting through intriguing, small production wines. All fruit sourced from Stags Lead District, their wines sell out quickly so be sure to stock up while you can.

Stags’ Leap Winery

6150 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 257-5790

Why Guests Love It: Historic Winery, Beautiful Views, Exceptional Service

Stags’ Leap is another legendary Napa winery and is a must for those wanting to taste through the best the valley has to offer. Indulge in a porch tasting to experience the stunning views alongside the stunning wines. And, be sure to grab a bottle of Petite Sirah, which is a perennial favorite among critics.

Clos du Val Winery

5330 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 261-5212

Why Guests Love It: Stunning Views, Creative Events, High End Hospitality

Clos du Val is nestled back among the vines, providing a picturesque experience for visitors. Book a tasting in advance, or check out events like Apéro nights, or sparkling wine brunches. No matter what you try, you’ll love the attention to detail that weaves through both the wines and the estate.

4240 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 257-2345

Why Guests Love It: Stunning Architecture, Luxurious Pairings, Exceptional Service

Darioush is sort of like Madonna or Cher in that it needs no other name: Darioush is enough. And, for those that know it, the name Darioush means opulence and grandeur unlike anything else in Napa. Grounded in Persian culture, hospitality is elevated to an art form here. Be sure to reserve the Signature Mezza tasting to try the wines alongside traditional Persian mezze plates.

Judd’s Hill Winery & MicroCrush

2332 Silverado Trail, Napa

(707) 255-2332

Why Guests Love It: Small Production, Family Owned, Relaxed Environment

Judd’s Hill is an anomaly in Napa because it’s lowkey and very hands on. Still family owned, guests are encouraged to book tastings, pairings, or even play winemaker and blend their own wines! Another charming experience is their annual poetry contest, for which winners receive a 3-liter bottle but the real prize is being part of this 20+ year tradition.

Best Napa Wine Tours

While we’re thrilled to share our favorite wineries throughout Napa, we’re also big believers in letting the local pros do the heavy lifting. Here are some of the best guided and private tours that take the guesswork out of navigating Napa.

Platypus Tours Limited offers the perfect way to have a more intimate experience while tasting fabulous wines and not worry about driving. (Designated drivers are the heroes we need!) This half-day wine tasting tour takes you to three exceptional wineries and also includes a complimentary picnic lunch . Hotel pickup/dropoff are also included.

It doesn’t get much better when you’re able to blend the great outdoors with an awesome authentic wine tasting experience. Napa Native Wine Tours offers a full-day guided tour, beginning the day with a morning hike through some of Napa’s redwood forests and mountainscapes. In the afternoon, this particular experience focuses on boutique wineries , so you’ll avoid the crowds and some of the more corporate setups. Hotel pickup and dropoff is also offered, with the option to include lunch.

Step back in time and try the Napa Valley Open Air Wine Trolley ! This throwback trolley lets you soak up the vibe throughout the experience, with a stop-off for lunch.

One of the more iconic experiences any Napa visitor should try (especially if it’s your first time), is to see the Valley from the air. Napa Valley Balloons offers a wine country hot air balloon ride , a breathtaking way to experience Napa. The company also flies drones in tandem to capture images of the experience that you can take home with you.

Restaurants

Oxbow public market.

610 1 st St, Napa

(707) 226-6529

Oxbow is a great place to start the day and plan your attack. There are countless dining options, or you can stock up on nibbles to take with you. It’s almost like a mini Napa boiled down to offer everything you could possibly need for a luxurious day of wine tasting.

Bouchon Bistro

6534 Washington St, Yountville

(707) 944-8037

Located just down the street from The French Laundry, Bouchon Bistro offers Thomas Keller’s vision in a lower-key setting. Think traditional bistro fare with the freshest ingredients, like moules au safran and steak frites. And, the stunning wine list is worth taking time to browse because it’s got some gems available by the glass.

Gott’s Roadside

933 Main St, St Helena

(707) 963-3486

If you were to ask Siri to show you the most California dining option possible, she’d definitely pull up Gott’s Roadside . These unpretentious roadside joint offers classics like double cheeseburgers alongside kale salads and baja fish tacos. And, because it’s in wine country, its beverage offerings include everything from kombucha to high end Cabs.

Goose & Gander

1245 Spring St, St Helena

(707) 967-8779

We love everything about Goose & Gander , from the adorable craftsman house that it occupies to the British-pub-meets-California menu that changes seasonally. The vegetarian options, like watermelon salad or fried squash blossoms, mean that vegetarians won’t be left in the cold.

6525 Washington St, Yountville

(707) 945-1050

Spacious and rustic, Bottega offers delectable Italian in the heart of Yountville’s Gourmet Gulch. Classic dishes are paired with wine selections that are updated daily. Save room for dessert because they are to die for.

Gatehouse Restaurant

The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone

2555 Main St, St Helena

(707) 967-2300

Support fine dining of the future by booking a fantastic evening at The Gatehouse , where students of the CIA (not that CIA) hone their culinary skills. Choose three or four course menus, with or without sommelier-selected pairings – just be sure to make class is in session before you go.

Meritage Resort and Spa

875 Bordeax Way, Napa

The Meritage Resort and Spa is the ultimate place to really indulge in the decadence of Napa. Even the basic rooms are perfection, while the suites take it to the next level. Amenities include everything from wine tastings to cooking class to wellness activities. And, bring your best friend: there’s an on-site dog park. 

El Bonita Motel

195 Main St, St Helena

El Bonita hearkens back to the heyday of roadside motels in Americana. Basic accommodations in prime location make it the simple choice for an overnight after wine tasting. Book a poolside room for best access to the pool and hot tub.

SENZA Hotel

4066 Howard Lane, Napa

SENZA is off-the-beaten path just enough to provide guests with peace and quiet without being too far from everything. Each room has vineyard and/or garden views and amenities include a pool, a hot tub, and cabanas. There are also spa services available, like massages and facials.

Wine Country Inn & Cottages

1152 Lodi Ln, St Helena

This locally-owned establishment offers rooms and cottages in vineyard tranquility. Guests can take a dip in the heated swimming pool before warming themselves next to cottage fireplaces. The concierge is more than happy to recommend the best of Napa, from wineries to restaurants and more. Take a look at their current room rates .

Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs

1507 Lincoln Ave, Calistoga

We can’t say enough about Calistoga, the often overlooked village at the north end of Napa. It’s quaint, it’s cool, and it’s got an unbeatable vibe. Dr. Wilkinson’s is the epitome of Calistoga. It’s got such a throwback quality that we can’t help but love it. Whether you want a swim in a mineral pool, an indulgent mud bath, or a frolic on a tree swing, Dr. Wilkinson’s has you covered.

RELATED: 11 Wine Country Wellness Retreats to Stay at Around The World

Travel Logistics: Getting To and Around Napa

Napa the city is towards the southern end of Napa the valley and is only about an hour north of San Francisco. Visitors coming from further afield can fly to either San Francisco International Airport or Oakland International Airport and drive from there. Since it is a quick jaunt from the Bay Area, it tends to be very busy on the weekends so midweek tastings often are the most relaxing (and available). You can check current flight deals into either airport right here.

Napa is also quite close to Sonoma Valley, which runs parallel on the west. However, mountain passes between the two are often very windy and can be quite dangerous to navigate, particularly at night. We recommend focusing on one valley or the other to fully enjoy the experience. Another great option is to leverage Green Dream Tours’ expertise to get a taste of both Napa and Sonoma on the same day. They offer round-trip transport from San Francisco, stopping at some exceptional boutique wineries in Sonoma and Napa.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Napa Wineries

What is the best time of year to visit napa wineries.

The best time to visit Napa wineries is during the spring (March through May) and fall (September through November) months, when the weather is pleasant and the scenery is spectacular. Spring offers vibrant wildflowers and lush green landscapes, while fall showcases the grape harvest and the changing colors of the vine leaves. Summer is also a popular time, but can be crowded and hot, while winter is quieter and offers a more intimate experience.

How do I plan my visit to Napa wineries?

When planning your visit to Napa wineries, start by researching the wineries you’d like to visit, as there are over 400 to choose from. Consider factors such as the types of wines you enjoy, the winery’s ambiance, and any special experiences they offer. We list most of the best wineries in Napa and group them by location to create an efficient itinerary. Read our detailed guide to help you plan your trip. Keep in mind that many wineries in Napa require reservations for tastings and tours, so be sure to book ahead.

How many Napa wineries should I visit in one day?

To fully enjoy your Napa wine tasting experience without feeling rushed, it’s generally recommended to visit 3-5 wineries in one day. This allows ample time to savor the wines, explore the properties, and take breaks for meals or relaxation. However, be sure to have a designated driver on hand or hire one of our preferred drivers or private tours referenced in this guide.

What are the costs associated with wine tasting in Napa?

Tasting fees at Napa wineries can vary widely, typically ranging from $25 to $50 per person, with some high-end or exclusive wineries charging even more. Some wineries offer tastings that are refundable with a wine purchase, while others may waive the fee for wine club members. Guided tours, food pairings, and special experiences may come at an additional cost. To manage expenses, consider setting a daily budget for tastings and prioritize wineries that best align with your preferences.

How should I get around Napa Valley when visiting wineries?

There are several transportation options for exploring Napa wineries, including self-driving, hiring a private driver or tour guide, joining a group wine tour, or using a designated driver service. Each option has its advantages and drawbacks, but it’s crucial to ensure responsible and safe transportation, especially if you plan to consume alcohol during your tastings. We give Winetravelers plenty of options in this guide to get around to Napa’s best wineries safely. Ask us any questions or for recommendations in the guide’s comments.

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Ultimate Guide For Best Napa Valley Wine Tours & Tastings

• Wine Country

An insider’s take by Napa Valley tour guides

There is no topping Napa Valley winery tours and wine tasting. Even though tasting rooms re-opened with fits and starts during the pandemic, the region’s passionate winemakers never took their focus off creating some of the world’s most exquisite wines.

Today, most of the over 500 wineries in Napa Valley welcome guests for winery tours, education and wine tasting. If you have just one day to tour the wine country from San Francisco, where are the best places to go in Napa Valley? 

This post will leave the question of “best wine” to others. Instead, it focuses on the best “winery tours” in Napa Valley. Some Napa wineries feature over-the-top luxury, others beautifully cuofted gardens, and some intimate experiences with the winemaker at a family-owned winery. 

What we will cover in this guide to the best winery tours in Napa:

• Best Napa Valley Winery Tours and Tasting Experiences

Best Time to Go to Napa Valley

Best ways to do napa valley tours from san francisco, best to know before you go.

We asked a panel of Napa Valley tour guides to judge the hospitality, education, ambiance, and the overall wine tasting experience at hundreds of Napa wineries. According to our panel, these are the ‘best’ Napa Valley winery tour and tasting experiences:

• Sterling (Best View)
• Artesa (Best Tasting Room)
• Chateau Montelena (Best Garden)
• Hess Persson Estates (Best Art and Adventure)
• Ru Vango (Best Tasting Porch)
• Hans Fahden (Best Family-Owned Winery)
• V. Sattui (Best Lunch Spot)
• Cuvaison (Best Vineyard Walk)
• Castello di Amorosa (Best Medieval Castle)
• Stags Leap (Best Wine Cave)
• Rombauer Vineyards (Best Budget-friendly)
• Beringer (Best Wine Club)
• Ackerman Heritage House (Best Convenience)
• Domain Carneros (Best Fairy Tale Estate)
• Inglenook (Best Celebrity-Owned Winery)
• Tres Sabores (Best Family-friendly)
• Fantesca Estate and Winery (Best Exclusive)
• Hall Wines (Most Exclusive)

Best View: Sterling Winery

Perched 300 feet above the town of Calistoga, Sterling Vineyards offers panoramic views of Napa Valley. An aerial tram carries visitors up the hill to the white stucco winery that stands out dramatically against the Mayacamas and Vaca mountain ranges that flank Napa Valley.

While tasting Sterling’s award-winning wines, guests may roam beautiful outdoor terraces and elegant tasting rooms inspired by the sun-bleached island of Mykonos. Well-marked walkways and motion-sensitive DVD screens allow guests to take their time during a self-guided tour of Sterling Vineyards’ winemaking facilities.

While known for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Sterling cultivates ten vastly different terroirs producing wines of great distinction.

Best Tasting Room: Artesa

The Spanish-inspired tasting salon and adjoining patio space at Artesa Winery overlooks the rolling hills

The Spanish-inspired tasting salon and adjoining patio space at Artesa Winery overlooks the rolling hills of Carneros and is easily one of the most beautiful places to enjoy a flight of wine. Designed by a renowned Spanish architect, the winery was built to blend seamlessly into a high hill of native grasses at the south of the estate.

Artesa’s tasting salon, awarded the 2018 Design Award from the American Institute of Architects , draws inspiration from the art, culture and nature of Barcelona. This Napa winery features sweeping views through floor to ceiling windows and courtyard reminiscent of the Mediterranean waterfront.

At the heart of the bright-white space is a dramatic circular bar covered with hand-made, imported tiles. Leather lounge chairs and tall white ‘tapas’ tables complete the atmosphere of relaxed luxury.

Both the Tasting Salon and Terrace feature Barcelona-inspired food and wine pairing experiences by appointment. Artesa Winery specializes in Pinots and Chardonnay along with a vintage estate sparkling and cabernet, tempranillo, and albariño.

Best Garden: Chateau Montelena

The setting at Chateau Montelena winery is one of the most remarkable in the Napa Valley. It features an Instagram-worthy stone castle carved into a hillside above a garden, lake and vineyard that stretches to the base of Mount Saint Helena.

While they appear to be groomed, the gardens are mostly wild, growing where and how nature intended.  If you take the time to walk the path around the lake, you will be surrounded by plants native to the area, including redwoods, oak, madrone, and toyon. 

The Calistoga AVA offers the perfect climate for fruit, so besides impressive vineyards, you will see mature orchards of mandarins, key limes, blood oranges, Buddha’s hand, Yuzu, and finger limes on the paths leading to the tasting room.

Jade Lake provides the perfect backdrop for this sanctuary which hosts many species of wildlife such as the mute swans and ducks along with the occasional visits of otters and beavers.

As pleasing as the gardens may be, they are not the highlight of this remarkable winey.  Chateau Montelena is the Napa Valley winery that famously won the white wine section of the historic “Judgment of Paris” wine competition in 1976.

The winery still features its remarkable chardonnays, but the vineyard’s diversified soil produces aromatic, rich and full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignons and Zinfandels.

Best Art and Adventure: Hess Persson Estates

The combination of ATV vineyard tours and impressive contemporary art collection may seem miss-matched, but all that and more is on offer at Hess Persson Estates. 

Hess Persson offers a range of tour and tasting experiences at their 1,000+ acre vineyard perched on the slopes of Mount Veeder in Napa. Their ATV tours allow you to enjoy stunning views across the valley and feel one with the vines (without the effort). Conclude the excursion with a wine and cheese or food pairing. 

If your interests lie in the Hess art collection, enjoy a self-guided tour free of charge (with reservation), or consider a combination tour complete with private tasting experience. Their walk-through tour with Director of Art Robert Ceballos enhances the art with stories of each artist and their relationships with curator Donald Hess.

Exclusive Muir Woods, Napa & Sonoma Valley Wine Tour

The only wine country tour to combine three Napa & Sonoma Valley wineries with a morning excursion to San Francisco’s stunning Coast Redwood forest – Muir Woods.

Small Group Napa Valley Reserve Wine Tour

This small group Napa Valley wine tour from San Francisco features seated wine tasting at 3 of Napa’s best-loved wineries, including the 13th century-style castle at Castello di Amorosa.

Best Tasting Porch: Ru Vango Winery

This quintessential Carneros AVA property, once cultivated by the Michael Mondavi Family Estate, is surrounded by rolling hills of planted vineyards. In the evening, fog and breezes off nearby San Pablo Bay provide natural cooling.

What makes a visit delightful is Ru Vango’ s perfectly situated wrap-around porch that looks out over sun-soaked vineyards located in the southernmost grape-growing region in Napa Valley.

The winery is particularly known for its wines made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes grown at 2000 feet above sea level and in the direct pathway of cool breezes that create the ideal growing conditions for wines with complex character.

Best Family-Owned Winery: Hans Fahden Vineyard

Hans Fahden Vineyards is a family-owned winery, resting 1,000 feet above Napa’s valley floor in the heart of the Mayacama Mountains. A family-owned and operated for three generations, the Fahden Family has a limited production of 1,500 cases per year.

Three vineyard areas are separated by volcanic outcroppings and forests of Douglas Fir. The soil is pure volcanic tufa beneath a thin layer of topsoil that forces it Cabernet Sauvignon vines’ roots to compete for a scarce water supply.

The estate’s perfect location just 30 miles from cooling blankets of fog on the Pacific Coast gives the grapes time to rest at night, producing character and complexity for master winemaker, David Sunberg.

French-style gardens surround the tasting room and add a dash of color to the estage.  No matter the season, roses, irises, petunias, pansies, cornflowers, poppies, ornamental grasses or native shrubs are in bloom.

A generation ago, an amazing wine cave was tunneled into a formation of volcanic ash rock. Inside, the cave’s walls are lined with wine barrels; grape-leaf adorned fixtures; and the twinkle of tiny lights.

Best Lunch Spot: V. Sattui Winery

V. Sattui Winery is a long-time favorite stop for lunch because of its old-world Italian charm, vast picnic grounds, personalized winery, barrel tastings, food pairings, legendary fresh food deli, and friendly staff.

Michelin-Star chef, Stefano Masanti ensures exceptional cuisine matches the glamorous and relaxing space. Culinary Director, Joe Schneider, combines award-winning wines with weekly tasting events. For any Napa tour from San Francisco, V. Sattui is a great spot to relax with a bottle of wine, while enjoying a family lunch on the picnic grounds.

V. Sattui features more than 60 different wines including sparkling and Port-styles and has recently added a Concierge Service designed to tailor group visits to guest preferences.

Best Vineyard Walk: Cuvaison

For those wanting to stretch your legs and get up close and personal to the vines, consider visiting Cuvaison Winery. For over 50 years, this Los Carneros region winery has been introducing the world to exceptional cool-climate Napa Valley Chardonnays and Pinot Noirs. 

Currently offered on Monday mornings, their 2-hour hike and tasting experience immerses visitors in the 200-acre property. The guided hike concludes on the patio, with an estate tasting and boxed lunch from Carneros Resort and Spa. 

Those not interested in hiking can still enjoy an elegant tasting in Cuvaison’s Tasting Salon. Tastings are available daily, by appointment only.

Best Medieval Castle: Castello di Amorosa

Castello di Amorosa knows how to make a first impression. The authentically styled, 13 th -century Tuscan castle winery was constructed using more than 200 containers of European materials and furnishings. 

Begun in 1994, a humble building gradually morphed into a castle spanning 121,000 square feet with 107 rooms located in four underground and four above-ground levels. The building has all the elements you’d expect from an authentic Italian castle. A moat with a drawbridge, high stone walls, gargoyles, a church, and a fully equipped torture chamber will fascinate on the way to the vaulted wine tasting cellar.

Thankfully, Castello di Amorosa puts the same love and attention into its wines which are elegant, intensely flavored, and well-balanced. The castle winery produces hand-crafted Italian-styled wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Primitivo and Sangiovese.

Best Wine Cave: Stags Leap Cellars

Founded in 1970 by Warren Winiarski, this winery brought international acclaim to Napa Valley wines when their 1973 Cabernet Sauvignon won the famous 1976 “Judgment of Paris” tasting. A bottle of the vintage was inducted into the Smithsonian National Museum in 1996 to highlight the impact that the achievement had on the U.S. wine industry.

The newly remodeled facility at Stags Leap  is a showcase for gorgeous vineyards and Napa countryside. At the center of the vaulted cave, swings an amazing floor-to-ceiling Foucault pendulum. According to Winiarski, the winery’s cave “is the moral center of the universe.”

The 90-minute Stags Leap tour and tasting experience (by appointment only) explores the history of the estate, its unique terroir, and its superlative wines. Small groups are treated to fascinating stories of one of California’s earliest wine estates as they stroll the property and finish with a seated tasting in the stately Manor House.

You can no longer taste the famous 1973 cabernet, but you can taste one of their newer vintages from vines that have been growing on the estate since the 1890s.

Best Budget-friendly: Rombauer Vineyards

This St. Helena vineyard is one of the last wineries in the valley that encourages you to bring your own food for a picnic. Reserve one of their outdoor tables, buy a glass or bottle of their well-known chardonnay and enjoy a budget-friendly meal. 

If you are interested in a guided tasting here, those won’t break the bank either! Indoor and outdoor tastings for groups of 1-4 are only $25 per person. While they don’t offer much for snacks, the friendly staff, quality wine, and beautiful setting make for a great value tasting. 

Best Wine Club: Beringer Vineyard

If you really enjoy the wines from a specific winery and the wines are hard to find, then I recommend

If you really enjoy the wines from a specific winery and the wines are hard to find, then I recommend signing up a wine club in Napa Valley. As a member, you will often be the first to receive new releases or limited production wines. Most memberships include free tastings in their tasting rooms and discounts when you buy more wines online.

Beringer V ineyards has an extremely celebrated wine club credited to its intricately adorned 17-room Rhine House mansion, constructed in 1884. Beringer Reserve Club members receive complimentary samples and tastings in exclusive areas of the mansion.

The Beringer Wine Club also features special invitations to classes, performances, recitals and other pop-up occasions like gourmet dinners and rare barrel-tasting sessions in cellars where wine producers work their magic.

While distinguished as the oldest continuously operating winery in Napa Valley and a National Historic site, Beringer Estate is graced with 19th-century architecture and verdant gardens.

Beringer cultivates diverse and prized vineyards across appellations from the highest hills in Napa to the valley floor behind the historic winery.

Best Convenience: Ackerman Heritage House

If you are staying in downtown Napa, a stop at Ackerman Heritage House is a must. This stunning 1889 Victorian Estate is walking distance from most Napa hotels, but the convenience doesn’t make the experience.

Ackerman Family Vineyards provide elegant experiences at their Heritage House. You can find classic tastings here, but Ackerman pays almost as much attention to their food as their wines. From chef-led wine and lunch pairings, to cooking classes, to one of the best brunches in town, all of your senses are sure to be delighted. 

Best Fairy Tale Estate: Domaine Carneros

Founded by the noble French family behind Champagne Taittinger, this majestically grand château delivers a splendid wine tour in Carneros Appellation of Napa Valley. The Domaine Carneros is located in the southern part of Napa Valley, near the cool climate of San Pablo Bay.

This stunning 18th-century French mansion is carved into a gorgeous Napa hillside. Below the winery are cellars, replete with exceptional sparkling wine. There are three terraces from which you can enjoy breathtaking views while sipping extraordinary sparkling and Pinot Noir wines.

Winery tours offer a behind-the-scenes look at how sparkling wines are produced, from harvesting of the vineyards to the bottling process. The tour experience culminates with a sampling of wines paired with an array of artisan cheeses, gourmet caviar, smoked salmon, and charcuterie, while seated in the Louis XV–inspired salon.

Best Celebrity-Owned Winery: Inglenook Winery

One of the original Napa Valley wineries, the elegant, ivy-covered Inglenook was founded by Finnish sea

One of the original Napa Valley wineries, the elegant, ivy-covered Inglenook was founded by Finnish sea captain and wine connoisseur, Gustave Niebaum, in 1879. Gustave was passionate about making fine wines.

Hollywood legends were drawn to this Napa treasure in the 1930s and 40s, including Carole Lombard, Clark Gable, and Jean Harlow, to name just a few.

In 1975, Francis Ford Coppola acquired the notorious winery and spent considerable time, money, and energy restoring it to its original, magnificent splendor. He has since returned the abandoned name Inglenook to the estate, promoting it as a true crown jewel of Napa Valley.

Wine tours of the historic grounds, elaborate tasting rooms, antique cars and other features are by appointment only.

Best Family-friendly: Tres Sabores

Tres Sabores is a kid and dog-friendly vineyard aimed at bringing you back to the old Napa. This family-owned winery, opened in 1999, aims “to explore the ‘three savory flavors’ in every glass of wine: the taste of the vine, the terroir, and the good company around the table.”

Owner and winemaker Julie Johnson does just that by providing a relaxed yet intimate experience. Adults will delight in the organic wine and children will be fascinated by the local animals, curated activities, and maybe even a taste of something fresh from the garden. While they do offer food pairings, parents of picky kids shouldn’t despair, as they encourage groups to bring their own food too, as long as they drink what is available on property. 

This unpretentious winery was recognized by the San Francisco Chronicle as one of the top wineries in Napa Valley in 2023. Take a drive down the dirt road and see why for yourself. 

Best Exclusive: Fantesca Estate and Winery

This hidden gem winery offers only private tours of their St. Helena estate to elevate your Napa Valley experience. The personalized tour of the grounds, complete with stunning Spring Mountain views, offers an impressive start to the experience. 

Continue your journey into their winemaking process with a tour of their 300-foot mountainside cave, filled with fragrant french oak barrels. Learn about winemaker Heidi Barrett’s limited-availability wines during a tasting of select vintage and library wines at your private tasting desk overlooking the valley floor. 

Not only does Fantesca produce fantastic wines, their estate is also home to olive trees and honey bees, which produce extra virgin olive oils and dark, rich Napa Valley honey. Explore all that Fantesca has to offer with an exclusive visit to this special property. 

Best Exclusive: Hall Napa Valley

Hall Napa Valley wines perfectly illustrate the meaning of terroir. Carefully curating grapes from 13 of the 16 Napa Valley appellations makes for a portfolio of plush, dense, structured wines with refined tannins.

The tasting room of this Rutherford AVA has floor-to-ceiling glass to show off the remarkable views of the Sacrache vineyard where organically farmed, densely planted grapes result in some of the smoothest, most flavorful Cabernet Sauvignon wines in the world.

Exquisite tasting dinners of seasonal cuisine prepared by celebrity chefs, are delightfully lit by a massive Donald Lipski chandelier in the shape of a grapevine root system set aglow with the sparkle of 1,500 Swarovski crystals.  The tasting caves are hand-built from bricks imported out of Vienna.

Watch Hall’s calendar for special wine and food pairing events and for when they will offering sips of the rarest single-vineyard bottles in the Appellation Exploration Experience.

Group Tour.

There are more than a dozen established and respected tour operators offering wine tasting experiences. Taking one of these wine tours from San Francisco offers you the chance to sit back, relax and enjoy the experience.

The experiences are guided so you can learn about grape growing and winemaking as you travel to visit Napa Valley wineries. As a bonus, you’ll have the chance to socialize with other wine enthusiasts as you taste your way through the area.

Group tour operators usually include the wine tasting fees which they negotiate below the posted rates. They also take care of reservations which can be difficult to get during the peak summer and fall seasons. Here are several, we recommend:

Platypus Wine Tours’ “join-in” wine tours are a good option to experience Napa’s wineries while meeting new people along the way. During this approachable, sociable tour, you’ll visit four wineries and have a picnic lunch. Note: Platypus does not pick up at any hotels in San Francisco. They begin tours from Vallejo, CA, which you must reach by taking a ferry from Pier 1 in San Francisco. Phone: (707) 253-2723

Extranomical Tours’ Redwoods and Wine Country Tour is one of the most highly regarded wine tours from San Francisco based on TripAdvisor reviews . The day starts with a stroll under giant redwoods in Muir Woods and then a wine enthusiast guide takes you to both Napa and Sonoma Valleys for tastings and an optional gourmet lunch . Extranomical Tours also offers a Small Group Reserve Tour to Napa that visits three of the wineries on this “best” list.

Private Tours

If you prefer to stick with your own group for a Napa Valley wine tasting from San Francisco and you have at least 6 people, you can easily arrange a reasonably priced private tour. A day tour to Napa from San Francisco will run $400 to $600 but you’ll need to add in the wine tasting fees (plan on an average $25 per person at each winery) and gratuity for the driver.

Private tours can be customized to wineries you want to visit, and you can decide whether you want the fare to include wine tasting fees or pay them as you go. The operator should also make reservations at the wineries (make sure of this!).

Extranomical San Francisco Tours (more shameless promotion!) also offers private, build-your-own wine tours to Napa Valley from San Francisco . To make the planning easy, an experienced travel consultant will help put your private tour together and handle reservations and all the special details needed to make your day in the wine country perfectly memorable. They do pickups from any Bay Area hotel to Napa and back. Phone: (415)-357-0700

Beau Wine Tours & Limo offers introductory tours perfect for Napa Valley newbies. The experience can be customized to your tastes and offers the chance to visit and tour at premier Napa wineries like Robert Mondavi Winery, Chateau Montelena, and Beringer Estate. A professional guide will provide insights into Napa’s grape varieties and terroir to help you gain a better understanding of this beloved wine region. Beau Wine Tours is based in Napa but will pick up qualifying groups in San Francisco for an extra fee. Phone: (707) 257-0887

DIY Of course, you can drive yourself on a tour of Napa Valley wineries. Don’t rent a car from the airport, wait until you get into San Francisco and rent your car just for the day you plan to head to up to Napa Valley (hotels can charge up to $70 per night for a garage space!). Make sure you check how late the rental car company is open, since some close early on certain nights of the week.

Be sure to set up tasting tour appointments in advance. Most wineries have open tasting hours, but many of the best experiences require advance reservations. You can simply call the wineries or look on their sites to see if appointments can be made online.

You can also use Uber/Lift as transportation, but they will not plan your route for the day. Without a good plan for going from winery to winery and lunch, you may spend most of your day inside a Prius instead of enjoying your day in Napa Valley.

Be sure to assign a designated driver!

You can also use Uber/Lift as transportation, but they will not plan your route for the day. Without a good plan for going from winery to winery and lunch you may spend most of your day inside a Prius instead of enjoying your day in Napa Valley.

Is this your first trip to the wine country? No problem, here are a few helpful hints to help you prepare.

• Eat Before Tasting: Eat a good breakfast before you leave your hotel so you are ready for a full day of tasting.
• Don’t Wear Perfume: Leave the scent of your perfume and lotions at your hotel. This allows your nose (and others’ noses!) to fully experience the beauty of each wine.
• Search “how to taste wines”: Swirl, sniff, sip, and repeat to savor all of the aromas and flavors.
• Ask Questions: Don’t be afraid to ask questions as the wineries LOVE talking about their wines.
• Pace Yourself: Wine tasting is a slow process so you can remember every moment, flavor, and wine. Take your time as you taste and savor the experience.

Of course, this list only scratches the surface. Napa has dozens of other amazing wineries worth noting, such as Beaulieu, Cakebread, Ehlers, Far Niente, Robert Mondavi, Pine Ridge, Shafer, Darioush and Silver Oak, to name a few.

Published on: August 22nd 2023

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Ultimate Napa Valley Weekend Itinerary You Should Steal

This post may contain affiliate links, meaning if you buy or book through one of these links, I may earn a small commission .

Are you a wine lover making a long-awaited trip to Napa Valley, California?  After all, this warm, mountain-encircled valley is basically the mother of all U.S. wine regions.  Since narrowing down wineries for your Napa Valley itinerary is half the battle, today I am sharing the best stops from my own amazing trips to help you on your way.

During our first February 2019 trip, my husband and I cozied up on heated patios and watched rainbows form over the vineyards. We recently returned for a fall visit, strolling past vines loaded with ripening grapes that were days away from harvest. However, this time we visited a maximum of two wineries a day and did a bit more hiking.

While these trips were very different, they felt equally romantic. The February Napa trip had sweater weather and Valentine’s Day ambiance, while our second trip exploring the mountains and seeing redwood trees was full of wonder and awe.

Below, I have created the perfect Napa Valley itinerary, whether you only want to taste wine or want to mix in some outdoorsy sightseeing. I will suggest two wineries per day, while giving an option for a third winery or potential hike. With that, let’s get into how to have an incredible weekend in Napa Valley, whether you have 2, 3, or even 4 days.

Napa Valley in February: 6 Reasons to Visit 6 Dreamy Wineries to Visit in Napa Budget Breakdown: Real Cost of a Trip to Napa Valley

The Perfect Napa Valley Weekend Itinerary

Get ready for a wondrous weekend of winery hopping and drinking some of the best fermented grapes you’ve had in your life. You’ll start each day with a nice breakfast at a charming inn or hotel, which will be a good base before wine consumption.

This Napa Valley itinerary is relaxed, with no more than three winery visits a day (trust me, that’s more than enough!). You’ll end each evening eating at trendy restaurants featuring creative dishes made with high-end ingredients.

Napa Valley Itinerary: Day 1

Hit the ground running upon arrival in Napa Valley so you can maximize your full weekend itinerary, whether long or short. This can mean heading straight for wineries or stopping at one of the best places in California to see redwood trees.

If you prefer to prioritize wine tasting, plan to arrive into Napa Valley early since most wineries close anywhere between 4-6 pm.

Redwoods & Wineries

Would you like to see some redwood trees? If so, a stop at Muir Woods National Monument is easy to do on the way to Napa Valley from the airport.

Otherwise, it takes about an hour and a half to drive to Napa Valley from San Francisco International Airport (SFO), giving you time to schedule one or two wine tastings.

11:00am: Choose Between a Hike or Winery

Choose between option 1 or 2:

• See Redwood Trees at Muir Woods: The easiest and most popular way to add redwood tree sightings to your Napa itinerary is to stop at Muir Woods. Although this park is about an hour an a half from Napa Valley, it’s an easy stop on the drive from SFO. Be sure to reserve a parking spot in advance online ($9 per vehicle and $15 entry per person). While this lush park gets very crowded, it’s worth it to hike shady creek-side trails spanning from a half-mile to as long as 11 miles.
• Visit Silver Oak (Oakville): Kick your trip off at one of Napa’s most famous wineries with outstanding red wine. Silver Oak is a Cabernet Sauvignon paradise, with a grand tasting room surrounded by sprawling vineyards. Reservations required. Tastings of a selection of premium wines start at $60.

3:00pm: Biale (Napa)

Biale is one of my favorite Napa wineries for exceptional Zinfandel.  As our visit was in February, I was initially surprised that this tasting was held outside on their patio, especially on a chilly rainy day. However, the built-in heaters and provided blankets did the trick in making us perfectly comfortable

Our off-season visit also meant that Biale wasn’t crowded at all, and our server actually sat with us and educated us about each wine.  I really valued the personal touch, and the opportunity to learn more about Napa Valley wines.  Meanwhile, the rain was stopping, and a rainbow formed over the vineyard in the background. What a dream!

As a personal aside – Biale holds a special place in my heart, as their Black Chicken Zinfandel has come to be synonymous with crazy, but fun holiday gatherings at my in-law’s.

Reservations required. Tastings starting at $50.

5:00pm: Domaine Carneros (Napa)

Cap off your first day of wine tastings with bubbly at Domaine Carneros , whose tastings are housed in a marvelous chateau. Ascending the long path and stairs through immaculate gardens for a grand hilltop entrance. 

While the wines matched the elegance of the building, don’t feel like you have to wear a ballgown to come here. My husband and I visited just a few hours after our cross-country flight, and were wearing sweatshirts with jeans. No one judged us.

Reservations required. Tastings starting at $40.

Travel Savvy Tip

Be strategic about the order in which you do wine tastings. Each day, we started with the furthest one, and worked our way back towards where we were staying. You will be tired after hours of tastings, and it’ll be nice to be close to your hotel when you’re done.

Dinner in Napa

Keep your first night in Napa Valley casual. For a relaxed sit-down experience, visit Bounty Hunter Wine Bar & Smokin’ BBQ in Napa.  Where else besides wine country will you find a smokehouse that is also a wine bar?

For even more cost effective dining that is also delicious, visit the Tacos Garcia food truck in Yountville. My chorizo burrito was filling and oozing with flavorful seasonings and sauces.

Napa Valley Itinerary: Day 2

Fuel up for day two of your Napa Valley itinerary, which features an array of awesome wines and stunning scenery.

Mountain Wine Tastings

11:00am: cade estate winery (angwin).

If Domaine Carneros has the most stunning building, Cade has the most breathtaking view.  Perched high up in Howell Mountain above the fog line, on a clear day you can see over the valley for miles. 

Admittedly, this is a splurge winery. However, Cade’s tasting is worth it for its wonderful selection red wines with a small cheese pairing, as well as a tour.  Somehow, the beautiful wines hypnotized us into pulling out our credit card to purchase a bottle technically outside our budget.

Reservations required. Tastings starting at $100.

1:00pm: Choose Between a Hike or Winery

• Hike in Bothe-Napa Valley State Park: If you missed Muir Woods, you can still see redwood trees at this state park conveniently located in Calistoga on the north end of Napa Valley. Hike the easy 3-mile Redwood Trail , which runs along a tranquil creek, or turn it into a more challenging 4.7-mile loop by adding the Coyote Peak Trail .
• Second Tasting on Howell Mountain: For an efficient wine tasting itinerary, stay on Howell Mountain to visit a second winery in this scenic appellation. To taste sophisticated cabernet sauvignon on the patio of an elegant estate run by Midwesterners, check out O’Shaughnessy Estate Winery . Alternatively, Summit Lake Vineyards is a family-run property where you can taste velvety Zinfandel as friendly dogs stop by for a pet.

4:00pm: Vincent Arroyo (Calistoga)

Please don’t overindulge today because you’ll want to save yourself for this tasting! This family run winery offers charm and a nice change of pace from more grandiose, large-scale operations.

The tasting we did at Vincent Arroyo is up there among the best wine tastings I have ever done in Napa ( Travel + Leisure agrees ). The vineyard-lined driveway to the barrel-filled barn housing the tasting was gorgeous during golden hour.

Once inside, we tasted so much wine that this is the first time I’ve ever had to dump any of my tastings! Expect to try (and love) an impressive variety of wines including Vincent Arroyo’s specialty: Petite Sirah. Also be ready to spend; we walked away with six bottles.

Reservations required. Tastings starting at $30 .

Remember: there is no need to jam-pack your day with more than two or three wineries.  The tastings are meant to be slow, sit-down experiences, and normally take one to two hours each. 

In addition, wine tastings can really add up monetarily, and it’s not necessary to go broke to get the full experience. You can only drink so much wine in one weekend anyhow – by the end of the day it all begins to taste the same.

Dine in Yountville

The French Laundry is the most famous restaurant in Napa Valley, with three Michelin stars. It’s also the most expensive, with a daily tasting menu costing $390 per person. A lot of people like to check it out at least once for the experience, but there are plenty of other awesome restaurants nearby to visit instead.

Alternatively, you could visit its more affordable sister restaurant Ad Hoc , which sits just a little ways down the street. Known for upscale takes on American comfort food served family-style, the four-course menu changes daily and features luxurious add-on options, like caviar. As we visited on a Sunday night, our menu featured delightful build-your-own ice cream sundaes.

My husband and I also had the best date night at Bottega , an lively, upscale Italian restaurant in Yountville.  We both agree that our plates of fresh pasta were the best dishes of our entire February trip. Booking a reservation in advance is a necessity if you’d like to get a table.

Napa Valley Itinerary: Day 3

Final wine tastings.

It’s your last day in Napa, and you’ve got one more full day of wine tastings to go. Drink your morning coffee and let’s get to it!

11:00am: Schramsberg Vineyards for Champagne and Wine Caves

A tour and champagne tasting at the Schramsberg caves is one of the most iconic things to do on any Napa Valley itinerary. You’ve likely seen Schramsberg champagne before since this winery distributes all over the country. However, a tasting offers the chance to try five different types of bubbly side by side for thoughtful comparison.

What sends a visit here over the edge is the chance to tour the wine caves and learn about how champagne is made. The caves date back to the 19th century and look like something out of Harry Potter. Indeed, the rows and rows of glass bottles reminded me of the Hall of Prophecy in Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix.

Also giving spooky vibes were the thick sheets of lichen covering the stone ceilings, which could easily be mistaken for monstrous spider webs.

Reservations required. Tastings starting at $85.

• Explore the Petrified Forest: This is your chance to see trees that were preserved in a volcanic eruption over three million years ago! Located just 13 minutes from Schramsberg by car, it only takes about an hour to stroll The Petrified Forest’s two half mile loops. You’ll see evidence of an ancient lava flow and the redwood trees that were excavated from the ash.
• Taste wine at Duck Horn (Saint Helena): One of our favorite tastings from our initial trip to Napa Valley was at Duckhorn .  Our most valuable takeaway was doing a side-by-side tasting of two Cabernets, with one made from grapes grown on the valley floor and the other made from grapes grown on Howell Mountain. This eye opening experience demonstrated how dramatically growing conditions affect the flavor profile of any given wine. Reservations required. Tastings starting at $60.

3:00pm: Grgich Hills Estate (Rutherford)

A visit to Grgrich is essential. It was this very winery that helped originally put Napa on the map by beating a French wine in the famed “Paris Tasting” of 1976.

That said, our experience at Grgich was more than a history lesson; it was also a reminder to refer back to a physical Napa Valley itinerary throughout the trip. This is also what inspired us to stick to two daily wine tastings on our next trip.

Basically, we lost track of time and missed our scheduled tour at Grgich. Thus, we had to settle for a counter tasting only.  We still loved this winery and the moderate price point on the bottles, with rows of barrels giving oaky aromas that further engaged our senses. 

Reservations required. Tastings starting at $75.

Napa Valley Sign

This photo spot is touristy, but essential. The Napa Valley sign is a short four minute drive down Highway 29 from Grgich Hills Estate. It’s a wonderful spot for a quick photo op, and looks especially stunning at sunset.

Have one last elegant meal before leaving wine country. On our initial visit, we finished up at Torc in downtown Napa.  This chic, yet dressed-down restaurant featured delectable menu items like pork belly and mushroom risotto. 

On our subsequent visit, we felt a little more adventurous and let the students at the Culinary Institute of American cap off our trip. The Gatehouse Restaurant on the school’s campus features a coursed menu prepared by future student-chefs two years into their studies.

Dishes like crudo and seared pork loin are prepared with using fresh produce from the school’s garden. You can even add on wine pairings for an elevated experience.

Getting There

Unless you live close enough to road trip to Napa Valley, the majority of people will fly into San Francisco International Airport.  From there, it is about an hour and a half drive to Napa Valley.  You will likely drive over the Golden Gate Bridge en route, which is pretty cool!

The drive from the airport is easy and straightforward, although their will likely be some slow-downs going through San Francisco.  It was the calm before our exciting winery adventures, which we enjoyed while listening to my California-themed playlist .

Only Have 2 Days in Napa Valley?

If you only have two days available for your Napa Valley itinerary, simply skip the first day of this schedule. Rather than exploring Muir Woods, focus on seeing the best of wine country by exploring estates in the valley and in the surrounding mountains.

Do You Have 4 or 5 Days for Your Napa Valley Itinerary?

If you have additional time to spend on your Napa Valley trip, here are some additional wineries and unique places to check out in the surrounding area.

• Venge Vineyards in Calistoga for delicious red wines made from grapes grown in volcanic ash.
• Mumm Napa in Rutherford to sip bubbly and peruse the adjacent art gallery
• M.S. Torun is the only winery in Napa that produces more olives than grapes. In fact, the owner, Sid, is the official olive oil provider for The French Laundry. Book a tasting here for an intimate, Mediterranean-feeling escape into the hills while Sid brings you fresh dishes produced on his property.
• Visit neighboring Sonoma to get acclimated to a new California wine region. We thoroughly enjoyed our tasting and tour at Repris , who paired our wines with an impressive cheese and charcuterie board.
• Armstrong Redwoods State Natural Reserve gives you a similarly impressive redwood tree experience to Muir Woods, if not better. The difference is there are way less people around and entrance only costs $10 per vehicle.
• Point Reyes National Seashore is the perfect last stop of your trip if you don’t mind a trek on your last day. Windy roads lead you into a rural coastal paradise where you can walk scenic hiking trails or descend steep stairs down to the 1870 Point Reyes Light Station.

Where to Stay

Napa Valley is made up of various little towns along Highway 29 and the Silverado trail.  Three of the most popular ones to stay in are as follows:

• Napa: We loved our stay at the charming Candlelight Inn in Napa – especially the breakfast that was included.  Napa is a great base, with a downtown that boasts many lovely restaurants.  However, being located further south, it is not the most convenient for reaching wineries on the north end of Napa Valley. 
• Yountville: This town is a popular destination for its walkability and easy striking distance to nearby wineries.  Yountville also has boasts of the most famous restaurants in Napa Valley, like the esteemed French Laundry . While hotels here run a bit pricey, Maison Fleurie offers affordability and charm right next to the highly touted Bouchon Bakery .
• Calistoga: Calistoga is unique from the other towns, with roads that become hilly and windy and great hiking and natural hot spring offerings nearby.  This northern town is not so centrally located in the valley, but is near plenty of terrific wineries, like the gems of Howell Mountain. The Bergson is a cozy hotel, with perks like fireplaces in the rooms and easy walkability to downtown Calistoga. We personally adored the Trailside Inn for seclusion and comfort on a budget.

Choosing Wineries

I have suggested some amazing wineries above, but of course you can swap these out for your own tastes. However, if you’re like me, the real issue is narrowing down the best ones from a rather large array of choices. After all, Napa Valley has over 500 wineries with tasting rooms you could visit. Yikes!

To combat the overwhelm of our first trip, I first made a list of all the wineries that we were considering and organized them by price and location. I narrowed down to just one or two splurge wineries, and basically played with the list until I was within my desired budget. I tried to arrange our itinerary so that we visited a max of three wineries each day, starting with the farthest out and working our way back to our hotel.

Don’t worry too much about choosing the perfect spots. Almost all the wine in Napa is good and everything is so beautiful. As long as you don’t overdo it, It’s impossible to fail at this!

Now your itinerary is all set for a mesmerizing weekend in Napa Valley.  This visit will be short, but it’s the perfect amount of time for doing some serious wine tasting.  You definitely can’t lose by visiting any of the ones I mentioned above.  After a blur of excitement, you’ll leave wondering when you can return to this magical wine region again.

Related Posts

Thank you! We followed a lot of your guidance on our Napa trip, and loved it!

Yay! That is so great to hear 🙂

This itinerary is fantastic!! How did you get around to the wineries? Are shuttles available, or ride-shares?

Thank you! We did a combination of driving ourselves and using Uber/Lyft (traditional taxis are available as well). Ride-sharing several times a day can get very pricey though, so it’s good to plan out tastings to minimize how often you need to use it. That said, if you’re able to split rides with others, that will definitely help keep costs down!

This is perfect! My best friend and I are planning a trip and this has a lot of fantastic tips.

This is so great to hear! Napa is such an awesome destination with more things to do than meet the eye.

Just came across this! Love it. Planning our first trip to Napa for this fall. There will be 4 of us gals. Right now the dilemma is to rent a car or not? We will stay in SF our first night after flying in. Then 3 days (Sat-Tues) in Napa. Is it easy to get around via Uber?

Yes, you should be able to get around just fine with Uber!

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Wineries in Napa Valley: My 15 Favorite Places to Go Wine Tasting

by Jill Loeffler   •

Updated: February 26, 2024

Did you know that there are more than 450 wineries in Napa Valley? This makes it a prime destination for wine lovers. It can also make it challenging to plan a visit.

This Northern California wine region is just over an hour away from San Francisco. Since it's so close to SF, I've had the chance to visit it quite frequently.

Throughout the years, I've created a list of my favorite places to visit. Some I enjoy visiting for the great wines and others I visit because they offer a fun, unique wine tasting experience.

Read on to discover a list of my fifteen favorite places to go tasting in Napa.

Disclaimer : I receive a small commission from some of the links on this page.

1. Stag's Leap Wine Cellars

Stag's Leap Wine Cellars (not to be confused with Stag's Leap Vineyards) offers a variety of high-end wines from this prestigious area of the Napa Valley region. They serve up everything from Cabernet Sauvignon to Sauvignon Blanc.

The grounds are worth a visit for their stunning views and impressive wine caves. Tasting experiences range from a flight of their Estate Collection in the tasting room, to cave tours, to pairings with delicious creations from their own Chef Travis Westrope.

Address : 5766 Silverado Trail, Napa

Tasting Room Hours : Daily from 10 am to 4 pm, reservations are recommended

Tasting Fees : $95 to $155 per person

People come from all around the world for the chance to try their Cask 23. It's one of the best Cabernet Sauvignon wines in the region.

I love this place for their wines and for its history. It's one of two wineries responsible for putting Napa Valley on the map back in the mid-1970s.

Learn More : To learn more about the history of Stag's Leap Wine Cellars, I recommend picking up a copy of the book called the Judgement of Paris: California vs France and the Historic 1976 Paris Tasting that Revolutionized Wine . It's written by the only reporter that showed up for what was supposed to be a quiet, uneventful wine tasting in Paris. It turned out to be the start of international recognition and respect for the Napa Valley wine region.

2. Sterling Vineyards

Another one of the wineries in Napa Valley I love to visit is Sterling Vineyards. This is the perfect place for those visiting the region for the first time as it offers amazing views of the valley.

This gorgeous winery and tasting room looks like a white castle perched high on the hill above the valley. The reason I love visiting is that the only way to get to the wine tasting is by aerial tram! Having a gondola whisk you into the sky is a fun way to start the tasting experience.

I also love visiting their small winery museum where you can learn the basic steps about the wine production process. I often visit this museum first before heading into the tasting room. However, it's free and you can visit it at any time.

This winery offers both indoor and outdoor seating options.

Address : 1111 Dunaweal Lane, Calistoga

Tasting Room Hours : Reservations recommended, open daily

Tasting Fees : $55 to $125

>> Find additional great wineries near Calistoga

Monthly Events in Napa

Find additional things to do during your visit to Napa with my monthly calendars specific to the wine region.

3. Spring Mountain Vineyard

Spring Mountain is another one of my favorite wineries in Napa Valley. This beautiful winery sits on the eastern side of Spring Mountain on an estate built in the 1800s.

Insider's Secret : If you think the main house at Spring Mountain Vineyard looks familiar, it's probably because you've seen it before on TV. It was one of the houses used on Falcon Crest. While they didn't film inside, they did use overhead and outdoor shots of this house for the show.

I love this place for its serene surroundings and powerful wines. My two favorites are their Syrah and their signature wine, Elivette, a high-end Bordeaux blend (Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, and Petit Verdot).

The most popular tasting option is the Classic Tasting which includes a tour of the property and wine tasting in either their cave or under the antique olive trees. You can also sign up for some of their other tours that include walks around the estate and a tasting at the end.

To book an appointment, reserve online or call them directly; weekdays between 8 am and 5 pm at 707.967.4186.

Address : 2805 Spring Mountain Road, St. Helena

Tasting Room Hours : Daily, by appointment only. (Cottage Tastings at 10:30 am, 11:30 am, and 1:30 pm; more elaborate tasting and tours experiences at 10:00 am, 1:00 pm, and 3:00 pm)

Tasting Fees : $50 to $200 per person, fee waived with purchase of $125 or more

>> Find more great wineries around Northern California

Tours from SF : If you are visiting Napa Valley for the day from San Francisco and you don't want to drive, consider taking one of the guided tours. There are several options, so you can find the wine tasting experience you seek. Click here to learn about my several favorite one-day wine tours from San Francisco .

4. Domaine Carneros

Domaine Carneros is on the southern end of Napa Valley in the Carneros region. Here you can sample some amazing Pinot Noir, Chardonnay , and sparkling wines. They are one of only a few wineries in Napa that offer table service.

All tastings are seated and led by an experienced wine professional. They are available both indoors and outdoors, where you can enjoy a flight of Rose, or a combination of sparkling and Pinot. 

For a delicious culinary experience, you can add on caviar, cheese and charcuterie, or other gourmet pairings. It's the perfect way to spend a few hours, or an entire afternoon!

Address : 1240 Duhig Road, Napa

Tasting Room Hours : Open to the public, daily from 10 am to 5:30 pm; reservations required ( click here to book online )

Tasting Fees : $40 to $175+

5. O'Brien Estate Winery

O'Brien is one of my new favorites. It's one of the wineries in Napa Valley that offers tastings and tours by appointments only.

This limited-production winery mainly focuses on reds, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot , and Cabernet Franc. You will find amazing single variety wines as well as flavorful red wine blends.

Eight of their wines are part of their Romantic Portfolio series. Each one has a dramatic, yet romantic name such as "Passion of the Soul" or "Seduction." These wines include a short, yet very creative description on the back that explains its name and its intensity.

The service here is always amazing. Those conducting the wine tasting are very knowledgeable about the wines and the region. They are also fun to hang out with and talk to for an hour or so.

If you are looking for a great wine tasting experience or want to add some amazing reds to your collection, then I highly recommend a stop at O'Brien Estate Winery.

Address : 1200 Orchard Avenue, Napa

Tasting Room Hours : By appointment only, visit their site to book

Tasting Fees : Starting at $95 per person

6. Chateau Montelena

Chateau Montelena is on the list for two reasons. The first reason is the gorgeous setting of this winery. The tasting room is in a beautiful stone castle carved into the hillside that overlooks a lovely Chinese garden and lake. You also get some amazing views of the surrounding vineyards.

The other reason they are on my list is because of their award-winning wines including their Montelena Estate Cabernet, Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon, and their Montelena Estate Zinfandel. A visit here will also include details on how this winery helped put Napa Valley on the international wine map.

Address : 1429 Tubbs Lane, Calistoga

Tasting Room Hours : Open daily from 9:30 am to 4 pm; appointments recommended, online or by phone (1.800.222.7288)

Tasting Fees : $60 to $700 per person

Weather & What to Pack

7. castello di amorosa.

Castello di Amorosa is set in an authentically styled 13th century Tuscan castle. Visiting the castle is such a fun experience and the perfect stop for those visiting Napa Valley for the first time.

You need to make a reservation in order to visit, but it is well worth it! With a seated or standing reserve tasting, you'll have access to the castle and winery to explore on your own, including the front ramparts, chapel, stables, Great Courtyard and main Tasting Bar.

With the Diamond Estate Tour and Reserve Tasting, or the Cheese and Charcuterie Wine Pairing Tour, you'll not only get a more personalized tasting experience, but a guided tour of the underground wine caves, armory, torture chamber, and the Grand Barrel Room, where you'll be able to taste a young Cabernet Sauvignon straight from the barrel. 

Address : 4045 North St. Helena Hwy, Calistoga

Tasting Room Hours : Daily from 10 am to 5 pm (until 5:30 pm on weekends); reservations required (707.967.6272)

Tasting Fees : $60 to $195+ per person, reservations have an additional $4.95 booking fee

See Napa from Above : Are you looking for a unique way to experience Napa? If so, then check out their amazing sunrise hot air balloon rides. This one-hour journey is one you will not soon forget! Click here to visit Viator and learn more about taking a hot air balloon ride above Napa Valley .

8. Duckhorn Vineyards

Duckhorn Vineyards is one of the old school wineries in Napa Valley. Started in 1976, this winery focuses on premier Bordeaux varietal wines.

This is the perfect stop for those who love Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cabernet Franc. You will find both single varietal wines as well as some delicious red Bordeaux-based blends.

Reservations are required to visit, and all guests must be 21 and over. They currently offer both indoor and outdoor tastings, where you can enjoy the garden and vineyard views from a wrap-around veranda. 

Address : 1000 Lodi Lane, St. Helena 

Tasting Room Hours : Open daily from 10 am to 4 pm; wine tasting is from 10 am to 3 pm, reservations required (707.963.7108)

Tasting Fees : $65 to $200 per person

9. Antica Napa Valley

This mountaintop winery with gorgeous views may only have been established in Napa in 2008, but the family who runs it has more than 600 years of winemaking experience in Italy. Antica is a combination of the family name, "Antinori," and "California."

You'll find this Napa Valley treasure off the beaten path, at an elevation of 1,600 feet on Atlas Peak. The views are stunning, the wines are delicious, and the attention is generous. You'll feel like part of the family with a customized tour and tasting.

This place does a great job of keeping the experience personal and intimate, so appointments fill up quickly. Try to reserve your visit a few weeks in advance.

Address : 3700 Soda Canyon Road, Napa

Tasting Room Hours : By reservation only, Monday - Friday year-round, with Saturdays during the summer months. Book online or by calling 707.257.8700.

10. Pine Ridge Vineyards

Pine Ridge Vineyards features wine from the famed Stag's Leap District. Their amazing varietals range from full bodied Cabernet Sauvignons to dry Roses (50% Cabernet Sauvignon and 50% Merlot).

Another reason this is one of my favorite wineries in Napa Valley to visit is their cave tour. On this tour, you get the chance to head inside the European-style caves that they've carved into the hillside and do some sampling from their barrels.

This fun tour also includes a wine and cheese pairing at its conclusion. You will need to make a reservation (800.575.9777).

Address : 5901 Silverado Trail, Napa

Tasting Room Hours : 10 am to 4 pm daily; reservations required

Tasting Fees : Starting at $60 per person

11. Schramsberg Vineyards

Schramsberg Vineyards is a great place to go for those who love sparkling wines. They offer almost a dozen different kinds of sparkling including Blanc de Blancs, Blanc de Noirs, and Cremant.

This is one of the first places I visited during my initial trip to Napa Valley. It was an experience I will never forget and one that I highly recommend to others.

They offer tasting-only experiences, but I recommend taking the cave tour, which includes a taste of their flavorful sparkling creations. The tour lasts for around an hour and a half. At the end, you will get the chance to buy everything you tasted, most of which is not readily available.

You will find them on the northern end of Napa Valley. They are included in my suggested sparkling wine self-guided itinerary .

Address: 1400 Schramsberg Road, Calistoga

Tasting Room Hours: Tours and tastings by appointment only (707.709.2469); visitor center open for retail sales daily from 9 am to 4:30 pm

Tasting Fees: $65 to $135 per person

Fun Fact : When did the first winery open in Napa Valley? 1854. This is the year when John Patchett opened the first commercial winery in the region.

12. Clos du Val

Clos du Val is another winery in the top-notch Stag's Leap District. This is the perfect stop for serious wine lovers.

Founded in 1972, this winery continues to make a name for itself with its amazing Cabs, Merlots, and Pinot Noir. They also offer single varietal wines made from Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot, and Primitivo, which are not as common in the region.

It's also the perfect place for all occasions. You can do a casual tasting with a walk-in visit or you can book a special Cabana for birthdays or other special events. Are you looking for a great place to celebrate your anniversary? If so, then book a table for two!

Overall, you will be impressed with both the wines and the wine tasting experience at Clos du Val.

Address : 5330 Silverado Trail, Napa

Tasting Room Hours : 10 am to 5 pm daily; reservations can be made online or at 707.261.5212

Tasting Fees : From $10 per person to taste a glass in the garden (not hosted) to $125 per person for their guided tastings

13. Frank Family Vineyards

All the way back up to the northern end of the region is where you will find Frank Family. They craft up everything from Cabernet Sauvignon to Chardonnay.

There are two reasons I like to visit Frank Family Vineyards. The first is they offer smaller rooms with more intimate tastings, so you don't feel lost in a large tasting room.

The second reason I love visiting them is that they have the perfect picnic spot for lunch. On our way to our tasting, we often stop along the way to pick up lunch. We then enjoy our tasting, buy a bottle of our favorite Frank Family wine, and finally, we head outside to the picnic tables for a nice, relaxing lunch. 

For me, it's always been a lovely experience. The staff is helpful, knowledgeable, and friendly. The wines are flavorful and well-priced given this winery's wonderful reputation.

Address : 1091 Larkmead Lane, Calistoga

Tasting Room Hours : Daily from 10 am to 5 pm; reservations required (707.942.0859)

Tasting Fees : From $60 to $120 per person

14. Ballentine Vineyards

Another one of the wineries in Napa Valley that I really enjoy visiting is Ballentine. They are a smaller winery and their tasting room is often less crowded than the others.

This is the place to sample some different varieties in the region such as Chenin Blanc, Zinfandel, and Petite Sirah. In addition to these wines, you will also find Napa Valley regulars such as Syrah, Merlot, and Chardonnay.

They are also dog friendly, so you will often find a loving face just waiting for some attention.

Address : 2820 St. Helena Highway North, St. Helena

Tasting Room Hours : Thursday through Monday from 10 am to 3:30 pm; reservations recommended (707.963.7919 x 3)

Tasting Fees : $60 to $125 per person

15. Domaine Chandon

Another great place to sample sparkling wines is at Domaine Chandon. They have a large selection of bubbly as well as a few still wines. They are all delicious.

The real reason I love to stop by Domaine Chandon is their outdoor tasting lounge. You can grab a full glass of wine, sit down at a table, and enjoy this winery's lovely grounds. It's quiet and you can order some simple food items to enjoy with your drink.

If you want to sample more wines, head back inside to enjoy one of their tasting experiences. You can do a standard tasting or book in advance for one of their premier tasting options (online or at 707.204.7461).

Address : 1 California Drive, Yountville

Tasting Room Hours : Tasting experiences from Thursday to Sunday, 10 am - 4 pm (walk-ins accepted space- and weather-permitting, but reservations recommended); wine shop open daily, 10 am - 5 pm

Tasting Fees : $55 to $175 per person

Comments? Questions? Suggestions?

I would love for you to join me in my private Facebook group ! 

It's a great place to interact with me and others who know the area well.

You can ask questions, get advice for your upcoming stay, and then share your photos and advice with others when you return home. It's a great community and the fastest way to get answers to those nagging questions about your visit!

Come join the fun here !

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The Perfect Napa Valley Itinerary for First-Time Visitors

• by JESS LANDER
• on JULY 19, 2024

Picturesque Napa Valley. Photo Courtesy of Groth Vineyards and Winery

One hour north of San Francisco, all of life’s greatest indulgences—wine, food, relaxation, and adventure—can be experienced all at once in Napa Valley , one of the top Wine Country destinations in the world.

Thirty miles long and five miles wide, this small slice of heaven is home to more than 500 wineries throughout a collection of six quaint towns: Napa, Yountville, Oakville, Rutherford, St. Helena, and Calistoga. Each has its own personality and places to discover; from Napa’s urban wine trail to Yountville’s renowned dining scene to Calistoga’s detoxifying hot springs , there’s something for every kind of traveler, whether you’re a oenophile, foodie, adventurist, or self-care aficionado.

There’s also no bad time to visit Napa Valley . While September and October are the busiest and warmest months, offering the chance to experience the annual grape harvest in action, the winter months have their own appeal. It’s quiet, uncrowded, and not too chilly, with temperatures mostly in the 50s and 60s. Plus, many hotels offer hard-to-beat off-season rates. Your best chance of rain is in the spring, but the blooming fields of bright, yellow mustard also make it one of the most Instagram-worthy seasons to plan a trip.

Whenever you do decide to pack your bags and pay Napa Valley a visit, we’ve put together the perfect itinerary for the first time visitor, covering all of the “must do’s” over a long weekend trip.

Visit a Historic Winery

Reserve a hotel room in Napa so that you can be within walking distance (or just a short drive) to downtown’s many restaurants, bars, and tasting rooms. The urban chic Andaz Napa is at the heart of downtown Napa activity, where loft-style rooms are both stylish and inviting, while Milliken Creek ’s peaceful riverfront location offers guests a quieter escape just a few minutes from the downtown scene.

For breakfast , head to chef Thomas Keller’s famous Bouchon Bakery in Yountville for pastries and espresso. Most likely there will be a line out the door, but it moves quickly. If you want to double down, you can head to Mini Model across the street. This is a smaller location of the locally-acclaimed Model Bakery . Get the English muffin. It’s so good that Oprah Winfrey actually has them flown straight to her front door. For a more elegant brunch option, head to RH Yountville , where dishes like avocado toast on charred sourdough and black forest bacon are perfectly paired with their signature RH mimosa.

Visit a Boutique Winery

Because you visited some of the oldest, largest, and most popular wineries on Day 1, make an appointment at a boutique or family-owned winery next and compare experiences. A boutique winery can mean several things: a more personalized experience (sometimes with the winemaker or owner), less of a crowd, and super primo wines (especially Cabernet Sauvignon, which Napa Valley is best known for). Some of our favorite family-owned and/or boutique wineries to visit UpValley are Goosecross Cellars , Jessup Cellars , and Cliff Lede Vineyards in Yountville, Clif Family Winery and Trinchero in St. Helena, and Groth Vineyards and Winery in Oakville or Staglin Family Vineyard in Rutherford.

Photos courtesy of Sequoia Grove Winery

Also in Rutherford is the family-owned Sequoia Grove Winery , where a variety of tasting experiences await. Check out the impressive Taste of Cabernet , where a multi-course menu crafte d by Executive Chef Spencer Conaty highlights the marriage between food and wine, o r the more approachable (and less filling) Wine + Bites experience to tide you over until lunch. 

Lunch in St. Helena

For the better part of the afternoon, drive the eight miles from St. Helena to Calistoga for some spa time. This quirky, little town is best known for its healing mineral waters from natural hot springs, plus mud baths that’ll make your skin as smooth as a newborn. Make an appointment for a spa treatment ahead of time; there are so many local spas to choose from, from luxe resorts like Indian Springs and Solage to hip boutique gems like Dr. Wilkinson’s Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs to more intimate and classically restorative escapes at Golden Haven Hot Springs .

If you have some time after, take a stroll down Calistoga’s main drag Lincoln Avenue and pop into CAMi Art + Wine for a tasting while admiring the contemporary art, or grab a pint at the Calistoga Inn Restaurant & Brewery .

Dine at a World-Renowned Restaurant

The 15 Best Wineries in Calistoga

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7 Best Spas in Calistoga

50 Wine Facts for the Budding Wine Enthusiast

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A Wine Expert's Guide to Napa Valley

For more than two decades, Travel + Leisure wine expert Ray Isle has been visiting Napa to uncover the best of the region. Here's his short list.

The City of Napa

• Yountville and the Lower Valley
• St. Helena and the Upper Valley

The Unmissable Outskirts

Soraya Matos

What is this place, really? Thirty miles north to south, about five miles across at its widest point, it’s definitely the most famous wine region in the United States, and one of the most famous in the world. It’s jammed full of wineries: 475 at last count. And it’s often jammed full of people visiting those wineries — some 3 million a year. In fact, it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in California .

Napa Valley makes some of the greatest Cabernets in the world, definitely. It abounds in excellent restaurants, wine shops, and hotels. Without a doubt, it’s a delightful place to visit. The trick is doing it in a way that won’t make you feel like you’re tourist number 3,000,001.

I’ve been visiting and writing about Napa Valley for more than two decades, and if there’s one piece of advice I’d offer to someone headed there now, it’s to plan well in advance. More and more wineries require reservations for tastings, and the best restaurants and hotels book up weeks — often months — in advance. The other suggestion I’d make is to simplify. Plan to visit four wineries per day at the very most; three or even two probably makes more sense. Instead of a sit-down lunch, opt for a wine tasting that includes food pairings — something more and more wineries now offer — and save the blowout meals for dinner.

It can also help to break the valley into sections, as I have below. Stretches of Highway 29, in particular, can be a traffic nightmare; the less time spent driving back and forth, the better. Pick one day to explore the lower part of the valley, around Yountville; another for the area around St. Helena and up to Calistoga; another to spin off to some of the mountain appellations. And don’t overlook the city of Napa itself, which in the past decade or so has gone from drab to exciting.

Finally, when planning those winery visits, lean toward variety. Balance classics with upstarts. For every big place, visit a smaller one; from an estate whose wines you know and love, head to a place with wines you’ve never tasted before. The currency of the kingdom is definitely Cabernet, but there’s far more to try than most people realize. 

When I first started going to Napa Valley, the city itself was a place you zoomed through on your way to the wineries. There used to be a traffic signal where Highway 29 met Trancas Boulevard — now the highway swoops right under the intersection — and you’d often hit a stoplight. That gave you time to consider whether you needed any of the things the city had to offer back then: a bag of mulch, for instance, or windshield-wiper fluid.

Instead of a sit-down lunch, opt for a wine tasting that includes food pairings — something more and more wineries now offer — and save the blowout meals for dinner.

That’s changed — big time. It probably started with the opening of Oxbow Public Market, at the end of 2007, which brought restaurants, shops, and buzz to downtown. Napa started to feel like somewhere you might actually want to linger. The 2017 opening of the stylish Archer Hotel was another pivotal moment. Today, Oxbow is still going strong. Its latest addition is Moro Napa , a delectable Moroccan street-food joint from San Francisco star chef Mourad Lahlou, who’s made his first venture into wine country.

Another big development has been the proliferation of tasting rooms, many affiliated with wineries up-valley. Check out Arch & Tower , the Robert Mondavi Winery’s home-away-from-home while the original Oakville tasting room is under renovation, particularly at its “Golden Hour” tasting from 4 to 7 p.m. At the Mayacamas Vineyards tasting room on First Street, you can sample their ultra-classic Cabernets without negotiating the lengthy, winding, and somewhat spine-jarring road up to the winery on Mount Veeder.

The most alluring new spot for me is the Gentleman Farmer Bungalow . Joey Wołosz and Jeff Durham, partners in business and in life, make very good wine, but more than that they have a sharp curatorial eye: their 1926 Craftsman bungalow on the edge of downtown feels like an expression of everything you wish wine country would be. Call it elegant cheekiness, or cheeky elegance — the place has antique light fixtures but also a stack of vintage Playboy s in the bathroom. The kitchen is beautiful, all butcher-block and blue tile, and also functional. That’s the point. Wołosz is a terrific cook, and starting the day with the bungalow’s wine breakfast — a tasting of current releases, but also gougères straight from the oven, house-smoked pancetta, individual soufflés, and more — is not to be missed.

Recently opened Chispa is another standout. Aubrey Bailey and Taylor Kindred already run Cadet Wine & Beer Bar, one of the best in town, and in 2023 they opened this tequila-centric bar and restaurant. Why tequila? Well, even winemakers sometimes get tired of wine — hence the presence of a whole lot of industry folks. There are also excellent cocktails and inspired cooking from chef Mac de Chavez, who does an exceptional tequila-marinated hanger steak with chimichurri and a must-order kung pao octopus.

Another newcomer is the bright, Mediterranean-themed Scala Osteria . Owner Giovanni Scala is also the force behind local fave Bistro Don Giovanni , north of town. At Scala he heads to the southern Italian coast, channeled through fresh California seafood. It’s a fine place to spend an evening after a day of wine tasting. My suggestion? Order the pasta with calamari, spicy sausage, and white beans, along with some cioppino and a glass of Massican’s crisp Annia white.

Yountville and the Lower Valley

The town of Yountville, nine miles north of Napa, is the anchor point for the Oak Knoll, Oakville, Stags Leap, and Yountville appellations. It’s hard to make the case that there’s a lot of town in Yountville (restaurants, tasting rooms, hotels, and wine stores seem to outnumber actual homes) but that doesn’t mean the place isn’t charming.

Restaurant-wise, the big name is, of course, the French Laundry . It’s still stellar, but it books up months in advance — and the sticker price doesn’t include wine, tax, or tip. Ouch. If that figure gives you pause, as it does me, I suggest heading to Ciccio . Chef Christopher Kostow and his wife, Martina, took the helm at this casual, effortlessly excellent Italian bistro in 2023, and it’s been packed ever since. Kostow found fame at the Michelin three-starred Restaurant at Meadowood, which was sadly destroyed, along with a good portion of the Meadowood resort, in the 2020 Glass Fire. At Ciccio, he brings his skills to bear on dishes like gnudi with burnt peppercorns and Pennyroyal Farm cheese; super-crisp pizzas, like one with potato, leek confit, fontina, and caper salsa verde ; and a pork Milanese that will make you wonder why the Italians bothered with veal in the first place.

There are many classic wineries to visit here, but one great possibility is Inglenook , which has a long and complicated history. Founded in 1879, it sank during Prohibition, bounced back to produce some of Napa Valley’s most legendary Cabernets in the 1940s and 50s under owner John Daniel Jr., then was flipped from one corporate owner to another until the brand found itself languishing in the jug-wine realm. Enter Francis Ford Coppola, who bought the property in 1975 (and got the name of the brand back in 2011). Now wines such as the flagship red, Inglenook Rubicon, are once again top-notch. The château’s library-like Athenaeum room is a lovely place to taste them.

The newish kid on the block, south of Yountville in the Oak Knoll appellation, is Ashes & Diamonds Winery . People claim that Millennials and Gen Zers aren’t interested in wine; the crowd here clearly didn’t get that message. The wines themselves point toward a less ripe, more restrained vision of Napa Valley wine — call it elegance over power — that’s echoed in the look of the winery and tasting room. The brainchild of owner Kashy Khaledi, it is all of one aesthetic piece: from the white interior, which leans Midcentury Modern, to the wine labels to, in some ways, the wine inside the bottles — cool and streamlined. And, even better, it’s fun.

The A&D wines are made by several top winemakers, among them Steve Matthiasson, who’s also one of California’s most sought-after vineyard consultants. He and his wife, Jill Klein Matthiasson, own Matthiasson Winery , one of my favorite places to visit in the valley, partly because it’s as unpretentious and honest as they are. Their organically farmed Phoenix Vineyard produces a complex and thrillingly aromatic Cabernet from unusual-for-Napa shale soils. Tastings are outdoors at a couple of big wooden tables on the concrete crush pad, right in front of tanks and barrels. There are no pseudo-Italian bell towers, no crystal chandeliers in subterranean cellars, no weird 10-foot-high eyeballs staring at you as you drive in (I’m looking at you, Raymond Vineyards). Just good people and good wine.

Related: Our Readers' Favorite California Resorts

With very few grandfathered-in exceptions, the county of Napa does not allow wineries to have restaurants. However, the law does allow food to be served with wine if it is part of a tasting. Hence the rise of what I call the “it isn’t really a meal but it might as well be” tasting. Some of these, I’ve found, are truly superb. One of the best is at B Cellars Vineyards & Winery , where chef Derick Kuntz creates tasting menus of intricate small bites to go with wines: a shrimp tostada with avocado purée, pickled red onion, and cilantro (with a bright 2021 rosé) or fried ravioli, arugula pesto, and a sweet-and-sour tomato gastrique (with the powerful 2019 Blend 24). You’ll never have those exact pairings, though, because Kuntz changes the entire menu every three to five weeks and never repeats a dish. Is it lunch? Oh, definitely not. Nope. No lunch here. But you won’t walk away hungry.

One important note: many of the absolute superstar wineries don’t accept visitors. One workaround is K. Laz Wine Collection , right in the heart of Yountville. Places like Harlan Estate and Screaming Eagle may bar the doors — but not to industry insider Kerrin Laz, whose connections are unbeatable. If you’re hunting for the hardest of the hard to find — think Abreu, Colgin, Futo, Maybach, Realm, and so on — she’s your woman. Even better, her store offers tastings, at a range of prices. Essentially, you can “visit” four or five cult Cabernet producers in one stop, buy a few bottles, and still have time left over for lunch. Just don’t make the rookie mistake of leaving the $400 Cabernet you just picked up in your trunk during the summer.

St. Helena and the Upper Valley

When Arkansas billionaire Gaylon Lawrence Jr. purchased the historic Heitz Cellar winery in 2018, one of the things it came with was an 800-acre parcel hidden away on Howell Mountain. Long a grape source for Heitz wines, Ink Grade is now its own biodynamic estate. The hitch? No winery, no tasting room, and a location far from the valley floor. The result? Senses by Ink Grade , an “immersive wine tasting experience” in St. Helena. It combines a guided tasting with a 360-degree video installation that takes you through the seasons in the vineyard, harvest work, and the wine-making process. Does Senses substitute for setting foot in an actual vineyard? No. But the futuristic approach does give a remarkable overview of how the vineyard looks through the course of a year — and it admirably demonstrates the hard manual labor that goes into harvesting grapes and making wine.

Another vision of the future of Napa Valley is on view at Newfound Wines — at least, the future in terms of how talented young winemakers can get a foothold in a valley known for wineries owned by the 1 percent. Married couple Audra Chapman and Matt Naumann make small amounts of a lot of different wines, with fruit from vineyards in Napa Valley, Sonoma County, and beyond. They don’t own a winery; the Newfound tasting room is in a small house on a leafy side street in St. Helena. And since there’s no staff, Chapman or Naumann host all the tastings. Low overhead, in other words — and also terrific wines, particularly those made from Grenache, the couple’s focus. Why Grenache in the midst of Cabernet country? “Because of its untapped potential for greatness in California’s Mediterranean climate,” Chapman said. “And because the way our Grenache comes across to me is pure California sunshine in a glass.”

Maybe it’s the past that’s actually the future, as at Spottswoode Estate Vineyard & Winery . Though its history stretches back to the 1800s, Spottswoode was among the first wineries in Napa Valley to certify its vineyards as organic, in 1985; today, under Beth Weber Novak’s leadership, it’s also at the forefront of climate-change awareness in the wine world. “Being good stewards of our land, people, and planet has been an important part of who we are since the start,” said Novak, who’s on the board of the nonprofit International Wineries for Climate Change. “We are always looking for new ways to champion the environment and better our communities, whether it’s adopting new regenerative agricultural practices or encouraging other winegrowers to embrace organic farming. It’s not just a Napa Valley issue; it’s a planetary issue.” The Spottswoode Estate Cabernet is a Napa Valley benchmark, balancing power and grace, and is not to be missed.

There’s also considerable innovation on the food front. The best meal I’ve had in several years in this part of the world was at Auro , at the Four Seasons Resort & Residences Napa Valley , where chef Rogelio Garcia seems to be racking up accolades faster than he can count them. Garcia’s seven-course tasting menu leans heavily on local produce, with Japanese and Mexican accents. This is high-wire cooking, impeccably executed in dishes like dry-aged Japanese yellowtail with avocado and a mandarin aguachile . The wine list is excellent and also lengthy; thankfully, sommelier Derek Stevenson is both easygoing and deeply knowledgeable.

A valley isn’t much of a valley unless it has mountains around it, and that certainly goes for Napa. The Mayacamas rise in the west, home to the Diamond Mountain District, Mount Veeder, and Spring Mountain District appellations; to the east are the Vaca Mountains, with Atlas Peak, Howell Mountain, and Pritchard Hill, which is not technically an appellation, though it might as well be.

The most recently designated American Viticultural Area, or AVA, in the valley is Coombsville, which was approved back in 2011. Though it has plenty of vineyards, there aren’t a lot of wineries, a fact that makes Favia all the more special. It’s owned by superstar wine-making consultant Andy Erickson — he’s worked at Dalla Valle, Ovid, Screaming Eagle, and many more — and equally renowned vineyard consultant Annie Favia. They make their own stuff in a restored stone building that dates back to 1886. Their Cerro Sur red, mostly Cabernet Franc, is regularly one of my favorites: vividly aromatic, polished, and even better after a few years in a cellar.

To cap off a Napa trip, make a visit to Smith-Madrone , hidden away above St. Helena on Spring Mountain Road. If there were a casting call for “old man of the mountain,” Stu Smith — bearded, rugged, and emphatically direct — would probably win the part. (His winemaker brother, Charles, wouldn’t be far behind.) To me, visiting Smith-Madrone is like stepping back into the Napa Valley that was.

“When I bought this land in 1970,” Stu said, “it was $350 an acre. Today, normal people like me and Charlie, we could never afford this place. At the time the only thing here was the road down. No electricity, no water, no nothing.” There’s electricity now, and water, but the wine is still made in an old wooden barn, and tastings take place right outside at a table. Zero pretension.

The Smiths are among the few people who still make Riesling in Napa Valley — and it’s excellent — but their Cabernet is the star. The estate bottling is elegant, complex, and classically styled; the brothers’ Cook’s Flat Reserve is even better. “I describe this wine as us trying to make something that competes head-to-head with the best Bordeaux,” Stu said. “They have a five-hundred-year head start — but you have to start somewhere.”  

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Join-in Wine Tour of the Napa Valley

Sit back, enjoy wine country.

Join the Fun ~ Napa Valley

$119 per person – $129 on fridays, $139 on saturdays, picnic lunch included – winery tasting fees are extra.

Napa Valley is the most celebrated wine region in North America. World-renowned wine, cuisine and scenic landscape make this a must-visit destination for visitors from all over the world. At Platypus Tours, we strive to accomplish an overview of the ideal Napa Valley day for our guests.

Book Now (or just Check Availability)

Our daily Join-in wine tours are designed to show you a picture-perfect day in the Napa Valley or Sonoma region wine country. This is a really fun and social way to see a hand-picked selection of backroads wineries that you probably wouldn’t find on your own.

Tour price is $119 per person ($129 on Fridays, $139 on Saturdays).

• Friendly tour guide, who provides storytelling and lots of tidbits about the wine process
• Pick-up from your wine country lodging, in most cases between about 10-10:30am, depending on the location. Drop off around 5:00pm
• Tour visits three smaller wineries, hand-picked by your guide
• Picnic lunch included served at a winery
• Lots of bottled water provided
• Group size is 8-12 guests

Not included:

• Winery “tasting” fees (These fees run about $20-$25 per person and are often waived with wine purchase)

For parties of more than 8, please visit our Private Tour page

More information on our FAQ page

Our small-group guided wine tours are organized Join-in style, so on this tour, you’ll share your day with a few other friendly, wine-interested travelers. This will be an intimate, yet social and light-hearted journey through the Napa Valley. We’ll show you three charming, hidden gem wineries (many of which are still family-owned), with an up-beat and well-informed tour guide. Along the way, you’ll enjoy a very tasty picnic lunch and have the opportunity to taste some wonderful wines.

• Visit three wineries – rich in charm and history
• Take in awesome and inspiring views
• Taste some of the world’s most delicious wines
• Learn tidbits of local wine making history and culture
• Dine on a scrumptious picnic lunch – served at a winery
• Share the experience with other fun people
• Personable, informed tour guide
• Feel you’ve experienced the real Napa Valley wine country!
• Click here for more information.

This tends to be very social, yet civilized tour. You’ll board a small-group shuttle,  usually with eight to twelve wine-interested adventurers on board visiting an ever-changing selection of smaller, intimate wineries – ideal for individual travelers, couples and small groups of friendly people. Your guide/driver will point out notable landmarks and wineries along the way. You’ll tour a winery, take in some extraordinary views of Napa Valley, maybe stroll through the vines, get a flavor of wine country history, hear stories and learn about wine making. This is not a boilerplate tour – it’s different every day, it’s informative and it’s fun!

The Napa Valley Join-In Wine Tour price is $119 per guest ($129 Fridays, $139 Saturdays), and is offered every day, subject to availability. Tasting fees at the wineries are not included and are charged extra by the wineries. These fees typically run about $20-$25 per person, per winery. All Join-In Wine Tours include a tasty picnic lunch served by your tour guide/driver on the grounds of one of the wineries.  Our tours usually last from about 10:30am to about 5:00pm. Pick-up is from local Napa-area hotels, rentals and from selected meeting spots for those driving in for the day.

Here is an example of a recent Napa Wine Tour Itinerary: Merryvale, Tedeschi, and Hans Fahden. We customize all of our tours and the wineries change each day. Itineraries do vary depending on availability.

Wine Tasting Fees

Tasting fees at the wineries are not included and are charged extra by the wineries, compensating them for the wine they pour for guests. These fees typically run about $20-$25 per person, per winery. Some tasting fees can be higher in the region, but Platypus works hard to cultivate relationships with our winery partners in order to keep the fees at an average of $20-$25 per person, per winery. Because of our partnerships, almost any of the wineries on our Join-In Tours will often waive a tasting fee with a bottle purchase or wine club membership.

If you have any additional questions about wine tasting fees, please don’t hesitate to call us at  (707) 253-2723 .

Meeting / Pickup

For our Napa Valley Tours we can usually pick you up from your hotel or inn or almost any location in the Napa Valley within the towns of American Canyon, Napa, Yountville, or St. Helena, and drop you off at that same place.

Otherwise, we’ll meet you at a pre-arranged public place that has parking. Our meeting place is in downtown Napa located at the corner of Main Street & 5th Street, Napa. There is a free parking in the 5th Street garage right across the street on levels 2 and 4. Pick-up time for the Napa Valley Tour from this location is 10:15am.  Select “Napa Valley Meeting Location” if you want to book this pick up location online.

If you are staying at some other Napa Valley location, we may still be able to pick you up. Please contact us and let us know where you’re staying and we’ll do our best to accommodate you and see if that option is available on your tour day.

Check out some of our favorite   Napa Valley Wineries .

General Questions

May we pick the wineries? On Join-In Tours, your tour driver will take responsibility for planning the best tour day possible for the entire group. Private tours can choose the wineries they wish to visit.

How much time do we spend at each winery? There is no set time. The average is about an hour at each winery.

You can avoid all of the work and stress of planning your Napa Valley or Sonoma wine region visit by allowing us to guide you through a most compelling and memorable day in the wine country!

On our small group join-in wine tours, you’ll meet other wine adventurers on a roomy shuttle led by one of our friendly and informative tour guides. We’ll pick you up from your area lodging for a day filled with fun, flavor and adventure!

Or…make it private! We’re happy to accommodate couples or groups of any size for customized tours through the wine country.

Join-in Tours Private Tours

Request a free copy* of the Napa Valley Visitor Magazine

The Visit Napa Valley Blog

Wine Tastings $50 and Under

March 14, 2024.

Several Napa Valley wineries offer great wine tasting introductions for a relatively approachable price. We’ve pulled together a list of wineries , tasting rooms , and wine shops with tasting fees at $50 or under to help guide you on some affordable wine tasting options.

While there are many reasons to visit Napa Valley, enjoying incredible wine tasting experiences are surely at the top. As the premier wine region in the United States and one of the top winemaking regions in the world, there are a plethora of wines to taste and wineries to visit, and tasting fees can add up.

Over the past few years, the trend for wine tastings in Napa Valley has turned towards seated experiences, often one hour to 90 minutes in length, and consist of wine educators walking patrons through a flight of three to six wines. The wines showcased are typically small-production wines and/or winery exclusives.

Overall, the range of wine tasting options offered in Napa Valley can be as straightforward or as elaborate as you desire. Elevated experiences might include food pairings or tours of the winemaking facilities, wine caves , or vineyards, while simpler tastings might feature a flight of three wines on the back deck overlooking vineyards. No matter your preference, there is a winery tasting option for most palates and, it’s worth noting that some wineries will waive or discount tasting fees with the purchase of wines during your visit.

Tasting experiences may change seasonally, so make sure to confirm availability, prices, and offerings when making a reservation and have fun exploring all the amazing options here!

Downtown Napa

• Oakville and Rutherford

Alpha Omega Collective Tasting Room

The Alpha Omega Collective showcases Chardonnay and Cabernet from Alpha Omega in Napa Valley in addition to wines from other domestic and global wine regions.

• The “Signature Flight” features four samples for $50.

Chateau Buena Vista

The whimsical, 1920s glitz setting of this extravagant tasting room features a variety of wines from proprietor, Jean Charles Boisset, and his collection.

• The “Taste of Buena Vista” flight provides four samples for $40.

Compline Wine Shop

This ultra-cool wine-shop-meets-tasting-lounge is the perfect spot to dive into a perfectly curated wine flight led by a knowledgeable sommelier, all set to great music.

• “Wine Without Borders” $39
• “Napa and Nearby” $49

Gamling & McDuck Tasting Room

This fun and quirky tasting room specializes in Cabernet Franc and Chenin Blanc, and is a true hidden gem in Downtown Napa.

• With the “The Wild Wild West Tasting” you can try 3 samples for Free before you buy
• “The BIG PICTURE Tasting” $35

JaM Cellars

The wines are easy-to-love and the atmosphere rocks at this tasting room and music studio which is open late and features live music Thursday to Saturday nights. Reservations encouraged, walk-ins welcome.

• Indoor and outdoor tasting options start at $45.
• Wine by the glass is $13–$20.

Mayacamas Downtown

Age-worthy, classically styled Chardonnay, Merlot, and Cabernet Sauvignon can be explored at this hip tasting room. Seated tastings start at $35 and can include a library vintage served alongside a current release.

• “White Wine Selection” $35
• “Current Vintage Tasting” $35
• “Red Wine Tasting” $50

Outer Space Wines

Out-of-this-world wines and values can be found at this fun wine shop on Franklin Street off First Street. Taste expertly-curated, artisan wines chosen from the hundreds of wines in stock, and enjoy themed tasting events on Thursday and Friday evenings.

• The “Outer Space Daily Tasting” for $30 features five local wines. Tasting fees are reduced with each bottle purchased.

These tasting rooms in Downtown Napa also offer tastings for $50 and under:

• Benevolent Neglect
• Housley Napa Valley
• John Anthony Vineyards
• Krupp Brothers Tasting Room Downtown
• Mark Herold Wines
• Rebel Vintners
• Robert Craig Tasting Salon
• Vermeil Wines
• Vineyard 29 Tasting Room

Black Stallion Winery

Originally the site of an equestrian center, this picturesque winery has several outdoor seating areas.

• The “Terrace Seated Tasting” includes four samples of wine ($45 for a mixed wine flight; $50 for a red wine flight).
• Book a “Vineyard Garden Picnic Table” (seasonal) and bring your own picnic to enjoy with wine bottle service from the winery.

Domaine Carneros

This sparkling wine château is a “must visit” for the wines, the ambiance, and the views. Four tasting flights are offered with two under $50. Cheese, caviar, and smoked seafood options are available (for an additional fee).

• The “Sparkling Wine Sampler” showcases the range of styles – from a Brut Cuvée to a Demi-Sec.
• The “Red Wine Sampler” comprises tastes of four different Pinot Noirs.

Trefethen Family Vineyards

One of Napa Valley’s pioneering wineries, Trefethen Family Vineyards crafts distinguished estate grown wines. This third generation family-run winery has an intimate atmosphere with historic charm. The scenic courtyard is the perfect backdrop for a relaxed tasting.

• For $45, choose from three flights – “Essentials”, “Small Lots”, and “All Reds” – each offering a taste of five wines.

Trinitas Cellars

Located at The Meritage Resort and Spa, this tasting room welcomes visitors for wines by the glass, wine flights, and wines by the bottle. Taste the elements of sun, soil, and humanity, the “Trinity,” in each bottle.

• For $40, choose your own flight of 4 wines from a list of over 20 wines, and an expert host guides you through the nuances of each.

William Hill Estate Winery

Not too far off the beaten path, William Hill Estate Winery offers excellent wine and…those views! Situated just off the picturesque Silverado Trail, this estate offers two tasting experiences focused on Chardonnay and Bordeaux-varietal wines.

• The $35 seated outdoor “Estate Tasting” is an in-depth exploration of estate-grown wines.

These wineries and wine shops in the Napa region also offer tastings for $50 and under:

• Altamura Vineyards and Winery
• Bougetz Cellars
• Hagafen Cellars
• Laird Family Estate
• Materra | Cunat Family Vineyards
• Reynolds Family Winery
• Robert Biale Vineyards

Goosecross Cellars

This small-production, family-run winery is located just east of downtown Yountville. Enjoy a patio tasting with views of the State Lane Vineyard, the Yountville Hills, and the Mayacamas Mountain Range to the west and Vaca Mountain Range to the east.

• “Patio Wine Tasting” $50

Hill Family Tasting Room

The Hill family has a long history of grape growing in Napa Valley and the craft of expertise shows in the high-quality, small-production wines on offer at the tasting salon in downtown Yountville.

• “Wine Tasting” $40
• “Blind Tasting” $50

Hope & Grace Wines

This artisan winery produces just 3,000 cases annually with a focus on limited production, single vineyard, 100% varietal Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, Petit Verdot, Semillon, Chardonnay, and Dry Riesling.

• “Classic Wine Tasting” $40
• “Wine & Cheese Experience” $50

Jessup Cellars

The quaint Jessup Cellars tasting room in downtown Yountville offers a relaxed experience and an extensive list of wine varietals. Taste on the patio or inside the tasting room, which also serves as a curated art gallery, featuring rotating exhibitions by regional and national artists. Bring your pup along, as this tasting is also pet friendly.

• A tasting flight of three wines, without the pairing plate, is $30.

Priest Ranch

Experience unconventional food pairings or enjoy fine caviar and sparkling wine at this downtown tasting room which also features Cabernet Sauvignon, Sauvignon Blanc, Grenache Blanc, and a Brut Rosé.

• A “Seated Tasting Experience” starts at $40.

These tasting rooms and wine shops in Yountville also offer tastings for $50 and under:

• Cliff Lede Vineyards
• Silver Trident
• Stewart Cellars
• Wine Country Connection

Oakville & Rutherford

Cakebread cellars.

Celebrating 50 years, Cakebread Cellars has built a tremendous legacy in Napa Valley and proudly welcomes guests to the winery to sample the sustainably produced wine portfolio.

• Take a communal walk around the grounds while tasting four current release wines with the “Cakebread Classic Tasting” for $50.

Elizabeth Spencer Winery

Set in an historic 1872 brick post office, this winery is one of the valley’s best-kept secrets – from unique and balanced wines to charming garden grounds to an eclectic repository of curated kitchen gadgets and tools spanning a century.

• “Signature Flight” $50
• For $20 take a self-guided walk on the “Kathleen Thompson Hill Kitchen Memories Tour” (does not include a wine tasting).

Miner Family Winery

Miner features a number of varietals, including some lesser known to Napa Valley like Grenache, Sangiovese, and Roussanne. They're perhaps most well known for “The Oracle” decadent Bordeaux-style wine.

• The “Current Release Tasting” for $50 includes a selection of current, core wines in the tasting room or on the terrace while enjoying the sweeping vineyard views of Oakville.

St. Supéry Estate Vineyards & Winery

Known for its exceptional Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon as well as the proprietary Élu and Virtú blends, this winery has a broad portfolio. Pro tip – head up to the second floor to view the current art gallery exhibit.

• The $40 “Winemakers Selection” tasting includes four red and white wines from the sustainably farmed vineyards.

A tasting on the patio at ZD Wines offers one of the best panoramic views of the valley. Fun fact: aside from the initials of the founder’s last names, the letters ZD allude to “Zero Defects,” a quality control term that applies to the rocket propulsion programs the founders worked on before starting a wine business.

• “Vineyard View Tasting” $50

These wineries and wine shops in Oakville and Rutherford also offer tastings for $50 and under:

• Frog's Leap Winery
• Groth Vineyards & Winery
• Honig Vineyard and Winery
• Napa Cellars
• Oakville Wine Merchants
• Rutherford Ranch Winery
• Saddleback Cellars

Beringer Vineyards

Napa's oldest continuously operating winery, Beringer is an American wine icon built on 145 years of winemaking tradition. Explore the unique history and expansive grounds.

• The $35 “Legacy Cave Tour” includes a guided tour of the historic wine-ageing tunnels, and a tasting of three wines.
• The $20 outdoor “A Stroll Around Beringer with a Glass of Wine” experience is family- and dog-friendly, too.

Clif Family Winery

High-quality, low-impact is the Clif Family mantra!

• For $40, drop by for “Cheers at the Bar!”
• The $50 “Seasonal Wine Tasting” features wines paired with culinary bites crafted from the Clif Family organic farm foods.
• The $50 “Farm Elixir Mocktail Flight” is an alcohol-free experience paired with small bites highlighting seasonal combinations of fruit preserves, honey, and fresh produce.

Merryvale Vineyards

Merryvale Vineyards in the town of St. Helena offers a variety of tasting options and a variety of wines, and are well known for rich, powerful Cabernet Sauvignons and Chardonnays. Merryvale also offers fun and delicious wine and food pairings with their close neighbors at Gott’s Roadside and Pizzeria Tra Vigne.

• A “Signature Tasting” at the bar, in the tasting room, or on the terrace is $50.

Orin Swift Cellars

Orin Swift’s newly redesigned and expanded tasting room in downtown St. Helena is a sophisticated and edgy space, with concrete, leather, wood, and metal fixtures in an Art Deco façade. Orin Swift Cellars is known for brilliant wine label imagery and luscious wines.

• The “Rock” experience for $45 is a standing tasting introducing you to the Orin Swift style.

Pride Mountain Vineyards

Pride Mountain Vineyards offers a little of everything that is quintessential about Napa Valley – classic wines, stunning views, cool winery caves, and a relaxed vibe. What is unique about this winery is that it sits on the crest of the Mayacamas Mountains west of St. Helena and bisects the Napa/Sonoma County line.

• “Estate Experience” $30

Raymond Vineyards

Proprietor Jean-Charles Boisset created a dynamic destination to inspire guests’ passion for fine wine and to encourage exploration of the senses with interactive exhibits. While visiting, be sure to take a walk through the “Biodynamic Theater of Nature” and explore “The Corridor of Senses.”

• For $50, enjoy a tasting in Raymond’s vibrant main tasting salon.

Rombauer Vineyards

Nestled on a tree-covered hill in northern Napa Valley, Rombauer Vineyard offers stunning valley views and gardens where guests may wander.

• Enjoy a “Tasting Flight” for $25 which includes the fan-favorite Chardonnay.
• Wines by the glass or bottle are available to enjoy at the outdoor garden experience.

V. Sattui Winery

Founded in 1885, this family-owned winery makes more than 60 different wines! It is a must-see destination that features wine caves, a wide variety of food items from the on-site deli, a large picnic area, and garden.

• The $45 “Premier Indoor Tasting” includes five wine samples.
• The $50 “Bubble Bar Tasting” includes four samples of sparkling wine served on the iconic Stone Winery Terrace.

Whitehall Lane Winery

This welcoming and relaxed winery is conveniently located on Highway 29 in the heart of Napa Valley. Stop here for a lovely tasting with friendly hosts.

• “Current Release Bar Tasting” for $40 offers a selection of reds and whites.
• “2 for 1 Winery Exclusive Flight” offered Sunday - Friday for $30 per person, and includes a small cheese pairing.

These wineries and wine bars in St. Helena also offer tastings for $50 and under:

• Charles Krug Winery
• Flora Springs Tasting Room
• Long Meadow Ranch Winery
• Nichelini Winery
• Paloma Vineyard

Bennett Lane Winery

Situated on one of the most picturesque vineyard properties in the northern part of Napa Valley, Bennett Lane welcomes visitors for an educational wine tasting and incredible views of the Palisades Mountains.

• The $35 “Taste of the Napa Valley” features four signature wines and includes the proprietary blend, Maximus Red Feasting Wine, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

Clos Pegase Winery

The Michael Graves designed winery offers a unique Napa Valley experience – with contemporary Mediterranean architecture and a grand entrance portico, 20,000 square feet of wine caves, a cypress-lined courtyard, and an impressive drought-tolerant garden.

• The “Mixed Wine Estate Flight” for $50 includes a selection of white and red wines.

Head to this quaint and welcoming tasting room in Calistoga for some classic Napa Valley wines, plus a few interesting options like Muscat, Riesling, Sémillon, and Charbono. Add the supplemental $30 “Cortez Conservas” pairing to your wine tasting, which includes bottarga and mojama, served with a French baguette.

• The $35 tasting includes five samples of wine.

Picayune Cellars

Picayune (pronounced pee-kah-yoon) means “a little bit” in regional French. In following the classic French negociant model, winemaker and proprietor Claire Weinkauf buys   small lots of grapes to make great wines. The wine lounge in downtown Calistoga also features a curated selection of artisanal goods – a perfect spot to sip and shop.

• The “Classic Tasting” includes five samples for $35.

Tank Garage Winery

Toast to vintage California culture in this 1930s-era gas station turned wine tasting room. Tasting fees are waived with a purchase of any three bottles or by joining the wine club.

• The $30 “Lubrication Tasting” features four one-of-a-kind wines, made by hand from grapes grown in small lots.

These wineries and tasting rooms in Calistoga also offer tastings for $50 and under:

• Laura Michael Wines
• Romeo Vineyards & Cellars

With wine tastings at $50 or less per person, the options are plenty.

Some insider tips on how to maximize the fun… plan for two tastings (and no more than three) in a day; mix it up by booking at one of the fabulous spots recommended here and a second at a splurge-worthy spot or get a light bite at any of these food lovers' spots between the two tastings; and…sip safely and smartly by hiring a designated driver .  

Karen Wibbenmeyer

As the Sr. Manager of Digital Marketing, Karen brings you the Napa Valley experiences to share, savor, and discover.

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Napa Valley Wine Tours With a Twist

Travel through the valley in a san francisco cable car, daily tours and private charters, visit napa valley wineries & tasting rooms & learn about the area.

We offer Two premium wine tasting tours for the visiting wine-curious traveler  aboard a classic San Francisco cable car . We blend fun and historic local trivia with basic wine knowledge on our trolley tours to entertain our guests. See the chateaus of some of Napa’s finest wineries and taste wines, olive oil , and other artisan products. Learn more about what makes Napa such a special wine-producing location.  We offer two tours, The Napa Valley Classic and the Up Valley Castle Tour . The Classic tour stays in South Napa and the Up Valley Tour heads to North Napa. For a description of each clink link below.

Up Valley Castle Tour

Classic napa valley tour, visit napa’s finest wineries, enjoy the great outdoors, exceptional service from expert guides, the wineries you’ll visit.

Napa Valley is home to more than 400 wineries and 90 urban tasting rooms in its 30-mile span. Our winery partners have been selected for the wines they produce, their scenic locations, the vineyard tour, and the warm hospitality they offer guests in their tasting rooms. At these wineries, you will taste some of the acclaimed cabernet sauvignon that has become Napa Valley’s signature grape, but you’ll also find other interesting varietals.

Previous Guests Share Their Experiences

Tripadvisor review, april 2023.

I will be recommending the wine trolley to any friends who visit Napa! Each of the 4 wineries we visited were wonderful and had a personal touch to them. The lunch included was delicious all around. Our tour guide, Richard, was so knowledgable on Napa and the wine industry. The trolley was such a great way to see so much of Napa in just one day!

TripAdvisor Review, May 2023

Richard our guide was excellent. Born and raised in Napa he knew the valley and brought a local perspective to the tour. The trolley was super fun and the wine was excellent.

Fuquay-Varina

Tripadvisor review, june 2023.

This was the trolley tour with Castle visit. We got picked up right at our hotel (Embassy-Napa) and Dennis greeted us and got us settled in the trolley. Had a wonderful day exploring Hwy. 29 to Calistoga and back. The tastings were great, the group was fun, and the luxury of having a such a great driver was a bonus. I feel this is a great value based on pricing of other alternatives. We enjoyed the wine and would recommend this day to anyone looking for a worry free day!

Katie Brown

We decided to go on the trolley and it was an absolute blast. Our driver was amazing and it was so great to explore 4 different wineries and not have to think about anything. Also the lunch that was included surpassed our expectations!

The day was overcast and spots of rain, however, we didn’t even notice as our guide, Richard was just phenomenal and kept us engaged and entertained throughout the tour. The wineries were all very different in their layout and approach, however, it was great to experience them all together. Richard was very knowledgeable and quite the host. There are so many wineries in this beautiful area, taking the Trolly tour was the most economical and informative way to indulge in these venues. We traveled here from Atlanta, and can’t stop sharing the great time we had on the Trolley tour and Napa altogether. BOOK THIS TOUR!

Napa Valley Wine Trolley’s Story

Great local partnerships & years of experience.

The original Napa Valley Wine Trolley has been running tours on custom built San Francisco cable cars through the Napa Valley since 2010. With the knowledge and experience of 25+ years in the industry from our parent company Appellation Tours, our focus turned to Napa Valley, one of the jewels in the United States’ wine-making crown.

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8 mistakes to avoid when visiting Napa Valley

It seems easy: You get in your car, drive to Napa Valley and taste some of the world's most respected wines where they're made. And you can do that, at least in the off-season. Still, as a local, I see way too many people rushing from place to place -- or worse, stuck in traffic -- and only scratching the surface of what the Napa Valley has to offer.

Here are the most common mistakes visitors make in California's premier wine country.

Skipping the city of Napa

The working heart of the valley, Napa was once overlooked by visitors. Today, those in the know head for the city's revitalized riverfront, where brick warehouses house nightclubs, cafes, wine bars and the elegant Napa River Inn along a walkable promenade. The Victorian downtown buzzes with new shops and restaurants and the historic Uptown Theater, often played by big-name musicians en route from San Francisco to Portland.

The Culinary Institute of America has an outpost, CIA Copia , with a restaurant, cooking classes and events such as book signings. And no trip to the valley would be complete without a stop at Oxbow Public Market, the ultimate artisanal food hall, where I stock up on bread from Model Bakery and fresh fish from Eiko's -- and maybe down a few kumamotos at Hog Island Oyster Bar.

Following the crowds

Napa has some stunning wineries: Medieval castles, Tuscan manors and Downton Abbey-style estates. But these are also the wineries that are most likely to be included on wine bus and limousine tours and thronged by visitors who've read the latest 10-best list. For a more individual experience, try visiting wineries that are off the beaten path, have an unusual back story or require prior appointments, which tends to cut down on numbers.

For example, Far Niente, slightly off the typical route east of Oakville, offers 13 acres of landscaped gardens and enormous wine caves. The winery itself, built in 1885 by a '49er who moved to the valley after the gold rush, earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places for owner Gil Nickel's painstaking restoration of the building.

Long Meadow Ranch invites guests up to its rural Mayacamas Estate high above the valley in the mountains of the same name, where tasting extends to their estate olive oil, pressed from their groves of 150-year-old trees.

Not going far enough north

Strung along the valley floor from south to north, the villages of Yountville, St. Helena and Calistoga all have quaint, walkable main streets lined with historic buildings, yet each has its own particular draw. Put on the map by famed chef Thomas Keller when he established The French Laundry and Bouchon, Yountville is foodie central. St. Helena is popular with shoppers for its shady main street lined with trendy boutiques, artisanal purveyors, cafes and wine bars.

My favorite is Calistoga at the valley's north end, a historic spa town founded as a retreat for those coming to "take the waters" in its healing hot springs. I go regularly to soak in the mineral pools at the numerous resorts and send friends to stay at Brannan Cottage Inn , which occupies an Italianate Victorian that's all that remains of Calistoga founder Sam Brannan's 1860s spa resort.

Doing Napa as a day trip

This is easily the most common mistake made by travelers from out of town. Napa is only a 50-minute drive from San Francisco but to see both Napa proper and the valley's northern end, you need more than one day. And with Napa so rich in world-renowned restaurants, why miss out on some of the most memorable dinners you can have anywhere. Even more important, staying at a Napa hotel is essential to wine-country immersion, with many offering catered tasting experiences and even wine-infused spa treatments.

Bonvoy members have hit the jackpot in Napa, with the Napa Valley Marriott Hotel & Spa and SpringHill Suites Napa Valley , both bookable with points (60,000 and 35,000 a night, respectively on standard dates) and The Westin Verasa Napa (60k points per night on standard dates), with its spacious grounds, pool and multiple restaurants. The Westin offers several member discount options and for "Cabernet Season" (November through April), the Verasa Napa is offering discounts of up to 15 percent off the best available room rates for all guests, Bonvoy members or not.

One of the anchors of downtown Napa's transformation, über-hip Andaz Napa (from 25k points per night) is a clear winner for members of the World of Hyatt. Hilton loyalists have the Hilton Garden Inn Napa (37k–60k Hilton Honors points per night).

Four Seasons fans will soon have a home away from home in Napa as the valley's first Four Seasons Resort & Residences begins accepting reservations in January. Located in Calistoga, the resort will nod to the area's history as a wellness retreat with an eight-room spa featuring steam pods in which hammocks swing above geothermal pools.

Neglecting the Napa Valley's natural beauty

With vineyards blanketing the valley floor, beautiful vistas are all around you in the Napa Valley, but it's easy to get caught up in wine-tasting and dining. One of my secrets for getting out into nature is to include in my tasting itinerary wineries that are secluded in stunning locations, such as family-owned Stony Hill Vineyard , perched on the steep slopes of Spring Mountain west of St. Helena. You can see the entire sweep of the valley from west to east from the outdoor tasting area and the 90-minute tasting experience includes a walk up through the terraced vineyards. Another plus for Stony Hill is that they are one of the rare chardonnay and riesling producers in the valley, a good thing to know for us white wine buffs.

The gardens at Larkmead , founded in 1895 and one of the oldest wineries in the valley, are not only lush and lovely, but planted for sustainability with flowers chosen to support pollination by bees. I learned this on the winery's 90-minute estate tour, which allowed me to wander the extensive property, learn about its long and colorful history and get out into the vineyards, where Larkmead's winemaker, Dan Petroski, is among a group of vintners experimenting with new varieties of grapes less susceptible to climate change.

To get even farther out into wild, take a hike through Bothe-Napa Valley State Park, which surrounds Stony Hill on both sides, or follow the two-mile, multi-use trail through Alston Park just northwest of the City of Napa.

Thinking that Napa's not for kids -- or dogs

Not only do many Napa wineries welcome kids, some even have attractions that seem tailor-made to keep them entertained. Top among Napa's most kid-friendly wineries is Sterling Vineyards , which has an aerial cable tram up the mountain. Chateau Montelena has a Chinese garden complete with lake, swans, ducks, arched bridges and a pavilion.

Napa is equally dog-friendly, with many wineries allowing dogs on the grounds and several inviting four-legged wine fans into the tasting room, at least at certain times, such as Clos du Val 's Wag Wednesdays. If your pooch can't be relied on to behave, dog-themed Frenchie Winery at Raymond Vineyards offers on-site kennels where you can leave him in comfort while you're inside.

And Harvest Inn in St. Helena greets canine guests with their own plush beds, drinking bowls and handmade dog treats baked by Fideaux in Healdsburg. The spacious rooms open directly onto the vineyards so you can take your Fido for a walk among the vines.

Getting stuck in cars

The Napa Valley is long and narrow, with just two main roads running north to south. This means that traffic can get congested, particularly on weekends. In addition, wine tasting by car means someone has to be the designated driver -- and who wants that job?

One of the most popular alternatives is the Napa Valley Wine Train , which just celebrated its 30th anniversary this fall and offers five different full-day tours and two half-day tours.

Another -- and increasingly popular -- option is to tour the valley by bike, either individually or as part of a bike and wine tour . This is my favorite way to explore Napa because I see the valley very differently, zipping along shady lanes and traversing the vineyards on farm roads.

For an airborne view of the valley, luxury helicopter company Butterfly Aviation offers curated "flightseeing" tours over Napa and nearby areas including the Russian River and Sonoma Coast. There are savings here as well, with a 15-percent discount through the holidays with a portion of the proceeds going to local charities.

Assuming the standbys stay the same

When Louis M. Martini Winery opened the doors to its new tasting rooms in the spring of 2019, the transformation wowed even longtime Napa Valley-watchers. A key player in the valley since the winery opened in 1935 -- one of the first to do so after Prohibition -- the Martini winery was a Napa mainstay but not exactly exciting. The new complex, however, has been transformed into a full-on destination, with a dizzying variety of tasting and dining experiences and an expansive outdoor area with table service and areas that can be reserved for groups. The new heritage tasting experience, featuring a seasonal menu of small bites, provides a stellar introduction to the art and science of wine pairing. On the menu the day I visited: Crispy squash blossoms and apricot-glazed pork belly paired with a cabernet sauvignon rosé. It worked beautifully.

Also new is 1881 in Oakville, the valley's first wine history museum and tasting salon, which opened this summer in a Victorian farmhouse built in that year. I spent longer there then I intended, exploring Napa's history through the photos and stories of the pioneering families who first settled the valleys. Other exhibits include 18th- and 19th-century decanters, vineyard tools and labels, all under a 240-square-foot map of the Napa Valley that covers the ceiling. I savored the chance to see the valley's early days through the eyes of those who made it happen.