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13 Best California Wine Tours for Learning, Sipping, and Sightseeing

Sip your way through the Golden State on these California wine tours.

Anne Olivia Bauso is a travel writer and hotel expert based in New York City. She has written hundreds of hotel reviews, from 5-star Ritz-Carlton properties to treehouse eco-resorts in the jungle.

Large swaths of beautiful California countryside are dedicated to the production of wine, with boutique and big-name wineries alike producing some of the most famous varietals in the world. After all, Napa Valley wines are up there with Burgundy and Bordeaux in terms of clout.

Idyllic vineyard visits are a lovely part of the California experience, but they're not without their behind-the-scenes stressors: There's the Google mapping, the hours-checking, and of course, the driving or arranging of transportation. Plus, there are literally thousands of California wineries and vineyards to choose from — 3,600 by one count. Even after narrowing it down to a certain region, you're looking at dozens (if not hundreds) of prospective properties.

There is an easier way. Guided wine tours take the legwork and logistics out of the trip. All you have to do is admire the rolling scenery and sip delicious wines at each stop. Maybe take a note or two, if you're so inspired, and doze off as your driver gets you home safely.

The best California wine tours can be geared toward anyone, from total newbies and nightly sippers, to pinot lovers hoping to discover more great reds and couples looking to relive a trip to Provence. They're intimate affairs that favor luxury vehicles and small vans to 50-person buses. The following California wine tours have earned high praise for their tailor-made itineraries and unfailingly kind, informative — and sober — guides and chauffeurs.

Painted Ladies Wine Country Tour

Painted Ladies Tour Company is beloved for their San Francisco city tours tootling around in a (very on-theme) vintage VW bus. The family-run operation also spins their retro wheels through legendary Sonoma Valley on small-group tours to up-and-coming wine producers. Past guests rave about the friendly guides, great road-trip vibe, and the thoughtfully selected lineup that includes an Italian winery for lunch. And don't worry — you'll get a Golden Gate Bridge photo op.

Toast Tours

If your group has some beer and whiskey fans in the mix, this Paso Robles company is an excellent choice. Groups aboard Toast's 12-person shuttle buses can visit distilleries, micro-breweries, and even a cidery, as well as local wineries. ( Tablas Creek Vineyard is a favorite for its organic Rhone-inspired wines and herd of cute alpacas.) Other tours can combine wine country with two classic California sites: Hearst Castle and Pismo Beach.

Edge of the World Tours

This local favorite does tours around San Francisco and Sonoma Wine Country. They visit both boutique and commercial wineries, highlighting local flavors and generous pours. Take the nine-hour Great Wine Tour with up to 13 other people in a van that takes you to three different wineries, lunch in historic Sonoma village, through scenic Sausalito, and to a photo stop at the Golden Gate Bridge. Or, create your own bespoke tour like a walk through the Giant Sequoias followed by a wine tasting in the Sierra foothills.  

Bin 415 Private Tours

Something that sets Bin 415 apart is the fact that its guides are certified sommeliers, so they really, really know their stuff. The SF-based tour group organizes private, totally custom wine trips (via Mercedes SUVs, no less) exploring Sonoma and Napa's celebrated varietals. Guides and the vintners themselves illustrate everything from harvesting grapes to bottling. Lunch is a highlight, with past stops including French country cooking (at The Girl & the Fig in Sonoma) and farm-to-table New American (at Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch in St. Helena). For those looking to splurge, Bin 415 will try to snag coveted French Laundry reservations.

Squire Livery Tours

While some winery tours embrace the flash factor — Segways! limo vans! party buses! — the three-person team at Squire Livery Tours keeps things sweet and simple with a two-car fleet and a hosting style that's nothing short of a delight. Run by the knowledgeable Kent Higginbotham, a true Napa/Sonoma connoisseur who's lived in the valley most of his life, Squire lets you be as hands-on or -off as you'd like — let them know what you'd like to try (you could, for example, mention that you're a sucker for riesling or want to learn more about cabernet sauvignon) or simply leave everything to the guides. When possible, they'll arrange for private tastings at times when the estate is closed to the public, something vintners often do for VIPs and industry insiders. Past guests regularly gush about Squire guides' expertise and genuine warmth, and report never feeling rushed or overwhelmed.

Baja California Wine Tours

If you're visiting San Diego, consider swapping the craft breweries of North Park and Ocean Beach for the highland vineyards of northwest Mexico. With San Diego as its starting point, Baja California Wine Tours leads day trips or even overnights to the famous Valle de Guadalupe, where the altitude, soil, and Mediterranean-like climate grow everything from chardonnay to malbec. Spectacular mountain scenery is a given, and tours can include stops at a 19th-century horse ranch, the studio whose water tanks were used to film Titanic and Deep Blue Sea , and laid-back Mexican beach towns like Ensenada and Rosarito for fresh ceviche and horseback-riding on the sand.

Food & Farm Tours

A day dedicated to wine, cheese, and baby goats? Irresistible. Food & Farm Tours celebrates Northern California's glorious food scene with tours to artisanal food producers and organic farms in Marin and Sonoma counties. The most popular circuit goes to Hog Island Oyster Farm , Cowgirl Creamery , and Brickmaiden Breads , but tailored tours can include sampling crave-worthy sparkling honey wine at Heidrun Meadery or certified organic whites and reds at McEvoy Ranch .

Sustainable Wine Tours

Sustainable Wine Tours specializes in day trips exploring Santa Ynez Valley, one of the five viticultural areas in Santa Barbara wine country. At the helm of Tesla SUVs or Mercedes Sprinters, tour guides bring small parties to a handful of the region's friendly, family-owned wine operations for private tastings. While sampling bottles and charcuterie boards, guests learn about the winemaking process — from picking fruits to fermenting — from estate owners and winemakers.

Noble Wine Tours

Even if you consider yourself somewhat of a wine expert, trying to nail down which of Napa and Sonoma's hundreds (and hundreds ) of wineries to visit is daunting. Noble Wine's Austin Smith takes research out of the equation with his bespoke itineraries based on guest likes, preferences, and interests. Have a thing for pét-nat? Want to visit the winery that put Napa on the map after famously dethroning noble French wines in a blind-tasting competition? (Wine rookies without a clue where to begin are in great hands, too.) Nearly everyone who's vineyard-hopped with Noble praises Smith for his courteousness, professionalism, and insane knowledge on all things California wine. He also doubles as a photographer, keeping a pro camera on hand to help capture the day.

Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley

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This hand-built replica of a San Francisco street car takes guests on six-hour tours through Sonoma Valley. Tours include a history of the area in addition to three different tasting sessions at local wineries and a boxed lunch. Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley tours are perfect for all kinds of oenophiles and highlight the best of the region’s sprawling estates and wine caves. 

West Wine Tours

West Wine Tours are designed to provide both a fun intro to Sonoma wines and easy transport — in this case, courtesy of bright VW vans refurbished with chic seating nooks ready for their moment on social media. The company's "Women in Wine Country" tour focuses on woman-led wineries, with stops at Fantesca Estate & Winery , St. Clair Brown Winery & Brewery (owner Elaine St. Clair is the only female commercial winemaker and brewer in the United States), and the ultra-friendly Crocker & Starr in St. Helena, where co-owner Pam Starr and winemaker Evyn Cameron produce superlative, sustainable wines, including well-loved cabernet francs and sauvignon blancs.

Green Dream Tours

If you’re looking for a more intimate wine-country experience, consider one of Green Dream Tours ’ private tours. The company specializes in full and half-day tours of Napa and Sonoma wineries. Spend the day riding through the gorgeous landscape in a luxury vehicle like a BMW convertible, limo bus, or executive coach with a private guide. They also do open tours that still feel special as Green Dream keeps the groups small and puts a lot of attention into curating the selection of boutique wineries you’ll visit. The Combo Tour of Napa and Sonoma is one of the most popular options — all tasting fees are included and you’ll make a stop at Oxbow Public Market for lunch. 

Napa Valley Wine Train

Pair a glass of sparkling wine with the classic glamour of train travel on the Napa Valley Wine Train . This popular tour, which runs on a rail line originally built in 1864, travels three hours from Downtown Napa to St. Helena and back. In addition to sipping varietals from Napa vineyards like Castello Di Amorosa and Sequoia Grove and enjoying picturesque wine country views, tours include winery visits and multi-course gourmet meals of dishes like yellowfin tuna tartare or pan-seared Pacific halibut. You can choose from a variety of experiences, ranging from three to six hours, like the Romance on the Rails trip or a special murder mystery dinner.  

THE 10 BEST California Wine Tasting Tours

Wine tasting tours in california.

• Sightseeing Tours
• Movie & TV Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Chinese (Traditional)
• Likely to Sell Out
• Special Offers

• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley

2. The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley Classic Tour

3. Small-Group Wine Country Tour from San Francisco with Tastings

4. All-Inclusive Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour of Paso Robles

5. Private Wine Tours of Napa Valley and Sonoma for 2 to 5 people.

6. Temecula's Best Wine Tasting Tour

7. Napa Valley Winery Open Air Tour

8. Sonoma Valley Open Air Wine Trolley Tour

9. 6 Hour Napa or Sonoma Valley Wine Tour by Private SUV

10. Small Group: The Ultimate Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour

11. All-Inclusive Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour from Santa Ynez Valley

12. Muir Woods with Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour

13. San Francisco Super Saver: Muir Woods & Wine Country w/ optional Gourmet Lunch

14. Wine Tasting Tour in Santa Ynez Valley (All-Inclusive & Full-Day)

15. The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley "Up Valley" Castle Tour

16. Yolo County Explorer: Culinary & Cultural Audio Tour

17. Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch

18. Temecula Trolley Tasting Tour

19. ​All-Inclusive Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour from Santa Barbara

20. Best Private Wine Tours of Napa Valley-Sonoma for 4 to 8 people.

21. Malibu Wine, Food & Beach Tour

22. Semi-Private, Modified "Hop-On Hop-Off" Wine Tasting Tour from Paso Robles

23. Half-Day Wine Country Tour from San Francisco

24. Healdsburg Small-Group Food and Wine Walking Tour

25. Paso Robles Wine Tour: We Drive Your Vehicle

26. Temecula wine tasting tour

27. 8-Hour Private Sonoma or Napa Wine Tour with Concierge Service

28. Solvang Valley Small Group All-Inclusive Wine Tour

29. Carmel Small Group Walking Food & Cultural Tour

30. Half-Day Wine Country Experience Including All Tasting Fees

What travelers are saying.

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WineTourism.com provides a wide selection of wine tastings and tours in California with our local partner wineries. Below you will find a list of wine tastings and tours in California with a direct booking option and a map of the region with the exact location of each winery. Discover and choose one of your favourite wine tastings and tours in California or the Winery tour; let us know, and we will guarantee your unforgettable experience of wine tasting California.

The best season to experience wine tastings and tours in California

California is such a big state that the climate is very diverse in all-year round, but the best moment to experience wine tastings and tours in California is from  May  to  September . In spring, you can witness the blooming and flourishing of trees, as well as vine rows. Summer is hot in California, but thanks to the gentle breeze of the Pacific Ocean, wine tastings and tours in California can be enjoyed even in the hottest season.

What to do in California?

There's so much more to do in California in between wine tastings and tours. If you enjoy outdoor activities and natural environment, you can't miss a trip to the  Yosemite National Park  or to the  Sequoia National Park . If you are more into cities, spend some days discovering the gorgeous city of  San Francisco . Visit the sea lions at Pier 39, have a meal in the oldest Chinatown in the world and enjoy the view from the many hills of the city. And don't forget the stunning Golden Gate Bridge! Learn more about what places to visit and what to taste in California by reading our  travel guide .

What to taste in California?

At wine tastings and tours in California, be sure to try the region's signature wines.

• Full-bodied  Cabernet Sauvignon . The most famous variety from Napa and Sonoma features aromas of black fruits, tobacco, minerals, and also cedar.
• Chardonnay  influenced by the breeze of the Pacific Ocean. Chardonnay from California has a very rich body accompanied by a rich bouquet. Enjoy fresh flavours of pineapple, apple, caramel, vanilla and an oaky finish.

What to expect from wine tastings and tours in California?

There are many possibilities to experience unique wine tastings and tours in California. A part from classic wine tasting experiences, you can have  private tour s of the estates and enjoy entire meals based on learning how to  pair your food with your wine . At  Capo Creek Winery , they offer a delicious wine and  chocolate tasting . At some wine tastings and tours in California you can even choose the wines you would like to taste.

Frequently Asked Questions

The most frequently asked questions by our visitors, which are the best experiences for wine tastings and tours in california.

• Bien Nacido & Solomon Hills Estate
• Emeritus Vineyards
• Riverbench Vineyard And Winery
• Darcie Kent Vineyards

Which places provide the best wine tastings and tours in California for kids and families?

• Wine tasting and tour at Emeritus Vineyards
• Wine tasting and tour at Darcie Kent Vineyards
• Wine tasting and tour at Hoopes Family Vineyards & Winery

Which places provide the top wine tastings and tours in California for couples?

• Wine tasting and tour at Martellotto Winery
• Wine tasting and tour at Westbrook Wine Farm
• Wine tasting and tour at Volker Eisele Family
• Wine tasting and tour at Optima

Which places provide the best wine tastings and tours in California for groups?

• Martellotto Winery

Which places provide the best wine tastings and tours in California for travellers on a budget?

• Wine tasting and tour at Graziano Family of Wines
• Wine tasting and tour at Riverbench Vineyard And Winery

Which places in California provide the top wine tasting and tours if I like organic wines?

What do you normally do during wine tastings and tours in california, which places provide the best private wine tastings and tours in california.

• Graziano Family of Wines
• Westbrook Wine Farm
• Hoopes Family Vineyards & Winery

Are there any exclusive and premium wine tastings and tours in California?

• Wine tasting and tour at Arcadian Winery

Are there any wine tastings and tours close to San Francisco, Los Angeles or San Diego?

Are there any specific wine trails or routes i can follow in california, what other attractions or activities can i enjoy in california wine regions besides wine tasting, are you interested in reading more about california.

If you are looking for organized tours, check out our list of guided wine tours .

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The 13 Best California Wine Tours for Learning, Sipping, and Sightseeing

California’s wine scene is renowned worldwide, boasting a rich history of viticulture and an exceptional range of wineries. From the rolling vineyards of Napa Valley to the picturesque landscapes of Sonoma County, the Golden State offers an unparalleled wine-tasting experience.

California wine tours provide not only the opportunity to savor award-winning vintages but also a chance to immerse oneself in the art and science of winemaking.

These tours blend the pleasures of wine-sipping with insightful educational experiences, revealing the secrets behind crafting the perfect bottle.

With breathtaking vistas and world-class wines, embarking on a California wine tour promises an enriching and unforgettable adventure.

Best California Wine Tours

Temecula valley wine country.

Located in Southern California, Temecula Valley Wine Country is a hidden gem for wine enthusiasts. This region’s tours provide a glimpse into its burgeoning wine scene, with a focus on boutique wineries and artisanal craftsmanship.

Temecula’s wine tours are designed to be both educational and enjoyable, offering insights into the winemaking process and a chance to sample a wide range of varietals.

The tour guides often share stories of the area’s rich history, from its Native American roots to its modern-day winemaking resurgence. With its warm climate and picturesque vineyard landscapes, Temecula promises an unforgettable wine-tasting adventure.

Napa Valley Wine Train

The N apa Valley Wine Train is a quintessential California wine tour experience. Set in the heart of Napa Valley, this tour combines luxury travel with wine tasting, making it a must-do for wine enthusiasts. Aboard a meticulously restored vintage train, guests embark on a scenic journey through the picturesque vineyards of Napa.

The train offers multiple dining options, including gourmet meals paired with local wines, providing a delightful culinary experience.

Knowledgeable staff shares insights about the region’s winemaking history and the significance of Napa Valley in the world of wine. As you sip and savor, the train chugs through charming towns and rolling vineyards, offering breathtaking views.

Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley

Sonoma Valley Wine Trolley tours are a delightful way to explore the laid-back charm of Sonoma County.

These open-air trolleys take you on an adventure through Sonoma’s wineries, where you can taste an array of exceptional wines. Knowledgeable guides share the nuances of winemaking, grape varietals, and the region’s history.

What sets this tour apart is its intimate and friendly atmosphere. You’ll have the opportunity to engage with winemakers and winery owners, providing a personalized and educational experience. Along the way, you’ll also enjoy the scenic beauty of Sonoma Valley’s vineyard-covered landscapes.

Santa Barbara Wine Tours

Santa Barbara’s wine tours offer a unique blend of educational experiences and breathtaking scenery. Known for its diverse wine regions, including Santa Ynez Valley and Santa Maria Valley, Santa Barbara County is a wine lover’s paradise.

Santa Barbara Wine Tours often include visits to boutique wineries, where you can learn about the winemaking process from grape to bottle.

The backdrop of rolling hills and coastal beauty adds to the charm of these tours, making them a perfect choice for those seeking both wine education and scenic delights.

Monterey and Carmel Wine Tours

Monterey and Carmel Wine Tours offer a coastal wine-tasting experience like no other. These tours blend the enchanting landscapes of the Monterey Peninsula with a deep dive into the region’s wine offerings.

As you sip on exquisite wines, you’ll be surrounded by the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the iconic 17-Mile Drive.

Wineries in this region often specialize in Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, known for their cool-climate charm. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the winemaking process and the unique terroir of Monterey County, making these tours both educational and visually stunning.

Central Coast Wine Tours

Central Coast Wine Tours take you on a journey through the diverse wine regions of Paso Robles and San Luis Obispo. With their Mediterranean-like climate and scenic beauty, these areas are perfect for wine enthusiasts seeking a well-rounded experience.

On these tours, you’ll explore an array of wineries, each offering a distinct wine-tasting experience. From Cabernet Sauvignon to Rhône varietals, Central Coast wineries showcase their specialties, and expert guides provide valuable information about the wines and the region’s history.

The tours often include visits to charming towns and vineyard-studded hillsides, adding to the overall allure of Central Coast wine country.

Livermore Valley Wine Trolley

Livermore Valley Wine Trolley tours are a delightful way to discover this East Bay wine region’s hidden gems. Livermore is one of California’s oldest wine regions, known for its rich winemaking heritage.

These trolley tours offer an educational journey into Livermore’s history and viticulture, with stops at boutique wineries. Winemakers and owners often share their passion for winemaking, adding a personal touch to the experience.

The Livermore Valley’s scenic beauty, with its rolling hills and vineyard vistas, creates a captivating backdrop for sipping and learning about the region’s wine culture.

Mendocino Wine Tours

Mendocino Wine Tours offer a serene and unspoiled wine-tasting experience in Northern California. This region is known for its commitment to sustainable winemaking practices and its stunning coastal beauty.

These tours typically include visits to family-owned wineries, where you can explore a wide range of varietals.

Guides provide insights into the eco-friendly approaches used by Mendocino’s winemakers, making it an educational and eco-conscious choice for wine enthusiasts. The tour routes often meander through picturesque landscapes, showcasing the rugged beauty of the Mendocino coast.

Russian River Valley Wine Tours

Tourists can explore an array of boutique wineries, many of which emphasize sustainable and organic practices.

Guides share the nuances of Russian River Valley’s terroir and winemaking techniques, offering valuable insights for wine enthusiasts. As you sip on exquisite wines, you’ll be surrounded by the valley’s lush vineyards and serene landscapes.

Lodi Wine Tours

Lodi Wine Tours take you to a hidden gem in California’s wine country. Lodi is renowned for its Old Vine Zinfandel, and these tours showcase the region’s rich viticultural heritage.

These tours typically feature visits to family-owned wineries, where you can sample a wide range of wines, including Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and more. Knowledgeable guides provide insights into the unique characteristics of Lodi’s vineyards and the region’s history.

The welcoming atmosphere and scenic beauty of Lodi make these tours a delightful choice for both learning about wine and enjoying picturesque surroundings.

Santa Cruz Mountain Wineries

Santa Cruz Mountain Wineries offer a wine-tasting adventure in a breathtaking coastal setting. This region is known for its high-elevation vineyards, which produce exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Sauvignon.

These tours often include stops at boutique wineries, where you can delve into the nuances of Santa Cruz Mountain winemaking. Guides share stories about the region’s wine history and its unique microclimates. The backdrop of the Santa Cruz Mountains adds to the allure, providing a scenic feast for the eyes.

Amador County Wine Tours

Amador County Wine Tours offer a journey into California’s Gold Rush history and its burgeoning wine scene. This region is celebrated for its old-vine Zinfandel and historic wineries.

These tours typically feature visits to wineries that embrace their heritage. You’ll learn about the region’s Gold Rush past and how it influenced winemaking. The rustic charm of Amador County’s vineyard landscapes and the warmth of the locals make these tours both educational and inviting.

Malibu Wine Tours

Malibu Wine Tours offer a wine-tasting experience like no other, set against the stunning backdrop of the Santa Monica Mountains. This unique region is known for its boutique wineries and vineyards that thrive in the coastal climate.

These tours often include visits to wineries specializing in varietals like Cabernet Sauvignon, Syrah, and Viognier.

What sets Malibu apart is the chance to enjoy wine in a truly picturesque setting. Rolling hills, ocean vistas, and even encounters with exotic animals in some wineries make this experience unforgettable.

Guides provide insights into the winemaking process and the history of winemaking in this scenic area. It’s a perfect blend of learning and savoring in a relaxed and tranquil environment. 

Final Thoughts

California’s wine tours provide a remarkable fusion of education, wine appreciation, and breathtaking scenery. From the renowned vineyards of Napa Valley to the hidden treasures of Amador County, each tour offers a unique window into the world of winemaking.

Whether you seek to deepen your knowledge of varietals and terroirs or simply desire a day of relaxation amidst stunning landscapes, these tours cater to all.

As you embark on these wine adventures, you not only savor exceptional wines but also gain a deeper appreciation for the art and craftsmanship behind each bottle. 

Napa Valley Wine Tours

Embark on our truly unique napa valley wine tours, book a napa valley wine tour for as low as $112.50. inquire with a tour planner today also now offering our napa valley join in wine tour, smaller and larger group packages, individual couples and custom private planning is also available with one of our knowledgeable tour planners..

Take a stroll in the lush vineyards and discover the excellent boutique wineries in Napa Valley through California Wine Tours and Transportations. We offer the perfect, most romantics, and thrilling Napa tours for couples, social groups, professionals, or people looking to meet like-minded wine aficionados. Get the best wine tour and transportation services in Napa Valley and experience a Napa Valley wine tasting adventure of a lifetime! Prepare yourself to embark on a journey to the most famous vineyards and wineries in Wine Country with the experts who know Napa Valley and get a wine tour from an insider’s perspective. At California Wine Tours and Transportation, we take the hassle out of wine touring so that you can experience the magic of Napa Valleys in its purest form.

Custom and Private Wine Tour Quote Tool

Napa Valley Join-In Open Air Tour

The Most Charming Napa Valley Wine Tours

Imagine the most perfect wine touring adventure. The experts at California Wine Tours and Transportation offer customized Napa Valley wine tours for a unique and unforgettable experience. Enjoy a range of endless wine tasting options and create a tour that you have always dreamed of. Although many of our clients love a glass of fine wine, they may be stunned by the rustic beauty and fairytale-like charm of the Napa Valley vineyards.

We offer much more than a vehicle and a driver. We offer a complete experience that includes personalized visits, comfortable transportation for the whole of your visit, and the pleasant company of our charming and witty drivers who are extremely knowledgeable about Napa Valley tours.

Whether you are a wine connoisseur or are visiting the Napa Valley as an outing with friends and family, our Napa Valley wine tours will satisfy your needs. Choose any of our Napa Valley tours and experience ultimate style, comfort, and sophistication.

Reserve Your Dynamic Napa Wine Tour Experience With Us

A wine tour and transportation journey is so much more than just traveling from one place to another. At California Wine Tours and Transportation, we provide you with unforgettable Napa Valley Wine Tour experience. Whether you choose elegant limousines or fun limousine style buses, be ready for a personalized experience with the charming Napa Valley landscape as your backdrop. We bring to you a rustic-chic experience in a luxury vintage setting. Whether you choose to visit multiple vineyards in exclusive private tours or want to enjoy a day of wine tasting in California’s Wine Country in a join-in style, we have you covered. Get ready for an intimate, light-hearted, and truly enjoyable journey through the world-famous Napa Valley and discover the hidden gems through our well-informed tour guides. Along the way, you will experience:

• Pick up location of your choice and all of Wine Country
• Discover multiple charming vineyards and wineries in a day
• Take in the gorgeous and awe-inspiring views of the rolling Napa Valley vineyards
• Taste some of the world’s most aromatic and delicious wines along the way
• Learn the culture and history of Wine Country local winemaking
• Dine on a delightful picnic lunch served at a winery
• Share the experience with wine lovers
• Enjoy the company of an informed and amicable tour guide
• Experience the real Napa Valley with our unique Napa Valley Tours.
• We have the #1 Rated Napa Valley wine tours!
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Bring your guests with you to this wonderful wine tasting and transportation adventure. We can plan your entire day from start to finish and offer you transportation from the airport to the hotel to the winery.

Come Join Us On One Of Our Curated Napa Valley Wine Tours

California Wine Tours and Transportation offers you a one-of-a-kind experience that is not offered by any other Napa Valley concierge service. We have a phenomenal ability to make Napa Valley truly accessible and enjoyable for all our clients. Whether you are looking for an intimate romantic getaway, an exclusive celebratory trip with family, or a corporate retreat, California Wine Tours and Transportation can make a highly personalized itinerary for you to ensure a memorable trip. Just sit back and let us take care of your planning and traveling.

We offer a wide range of options from riding in a luxury convertible to wine touring in private limousines , town cars, or party buses. Enjoy the stunning scenery, mouthwatering aromas, and divine tastes of Napa Valley’s world-class vineyards and wineries. Each Napa Valley tour includes:

• Experience the real Napa Valley tourism

Get acquainted with the world of wine and Napa Valley! This beautiful spot of bountiful nature is perfect for Napa Valley couples, locals, visitors, friends, families, and wine connoisseurs.

Book One Of Our Napa Valley Wine Tours Today!

When you book a Napa Valley wine and transportation, you will experience Napa Valley like a local. Do not be worried about getting lost, missing out on hidden gems, or risk driving when drinking. Do not waste your day finding the perfect place for lunch or a spot for a scenic picnic. Our Napa Valley Tours will offer you everything from comfortable, luxurious, hassle-free travel straight from your doorstep.

Plan your itinerary exactly according to your desires. We offer you:

• Exceptional airport to hotel to winery transportation with professional chauffeurs
• Tour planning from the beginning to the end
• Excellent recommendations and freedom to reserve wineries directly

Reserve your Napa Valley tour today and choose the wineries that you would like to visit. We will create a custom itinerary based on your preference and tastes that are guaranteed to please all the guests!

Our Napa Valley tour can begin once we pick you up from a hotel. Some vehicles will be provided complimentary champagne as they relax in the plush seats and see the breathtaking view of Napa Valley. Get to know your fellow wine lovers, explore the gorgeous Napa Valley landscapes, experience world-class wines, and five-star dining with us.

Make the most of your summer by exploring the gorgeous world-famous are on one of our Napa Valley tours today!

More Information on Napa Valley tours and towns

A napa wine tour through the carneros region.

The Carneros appellation is considered the crossroads of both Napa and Sonoma Valley where the two major wine regions collide. Along with this, it is known to produce some of the finest Sonoma Valley chardonnay, pinot noir and sparkling wines. Also it should be noted that the climate with the bay breeze and foggy mornings make for the perfect growing region of these Sonoma varietals. In addition it is the perfect halfway area for a Napa or Sonoma wine tour if you are coming from San Francisco or anywhere in the bay area. Finally It is also home to the oldest winery in all of California. What winery is that you ask? None other than the Historic Buena Vista Winery. Founded by Agoston Haraszthy in 1857.

Wineries and convenient spots for lunch or dinner

Our Partners in the Carneros Region: Artesa Vineyards & Winery , Calmere Estate , Etude Winery , Domaine Carneros , Dominus Estate Winery , Buhman Estate Vineyards, Madonna Estate Winery and Cuvaison Estate Wines

Savory Eats close by: Farm at Carneros , Boon Fly Café and Stanly Lane Smokehouse

Hotels on Hwy 121: Carneros Resort and Spa

Artesa Winery

Located in the steep foothills of Mt. Veeder overlooking Los Carneros, the rocky soils and maritime climate of our Estate Vineyard produce world-class pinot noir and chardonnay. Learn More and visit Artesa winery

Staying in downtown Napa and want to take a Napa Valley Wine Tour?

Napa is the largest of Napa Valley’s six towns. Apart from this it is conveniently located just about an hour north of the San Francisco Bay Area and an hour South of Sacramento. It undoubtedly offers an array of hotel options, art galleries, boutique shops, tasting rooms and exquisite restaurants it caters to all generations.

Note-worthy Napa Wine Tours: Darioush , Domaine Carneros , Calmere , Jarvis , Silverado and Chimney Rock

Savory Eats: Morimoto , Angele , Celadon , Cole’s , Bistro Don Giovanni , Ristorante Allegria and Torc

Accommodations: The Westin Verasa Napa , The Archer Hotel Napa , The Andaz , The Embassy Suites , The Napa Valley Marriott , Hilton Garden Inn

If you’re touring Napa Valley, you will more then likely drive through Yountville

Without a doubt the town of Yountville is among the most charming little Napa Valley regions you will come across. Known for its Michelin starred restaurants, award winning Napa Valley tasting rooms and luxurious accommodations. Talk about being transported right into your very own hallmark movie.

Note-worthy Yountville Wine Tours: Domaine Chandon , Bell Wines , Robert Sinskey , Stags’ Leap Winery and Cliff Lede Vineyards

Savory Eats: Bottega, Mustards Grill, The French Laundry , ad hoc + addendum , Brix , Bouchon and R+D Kitchen

Accommodations: Hotel Villagio , Bardessono , Northblock and Napa Valley Railway Inn

Popular stops on a Napa Valley Wine Tour in Oakville, Ca

Right off Napa Valley’s Highway 29 is the small town of Oakville. How small you may say? Well if you blink you quite possibly could miss it. Furthermore, that does not mean that its bold Napa Valley wines do not pack a punch. Whereas you will find the flagship Oakville Grocery deli known throughout the Napa Valley for its delicious picnic spreads. It acts as the perfect wine tour lunch stop for all locals and visitors alike.

Note-worthy Rutherford Wine Tours: Pestoni Family Estate Winery, Grgich Hills, Honig Vineyard & Winery, Mumm Napa, Fleury Estate winery, Alpha Omega Winery, and Frog’s Leap Winery

Savory Eats: Rutherford Grill, and Bistro at Auberge du Soliel

Accommodations: Auberge du Soliel, Maison Fleurie, and Rancho Caymus

Rutherford, Napa Valley

Refined with a touch of rustic Napa Valley, Rutherford will not disappoint. This area was once a riverbed and known for its unique soil. Producing some of the best Napa Valley Cabernet with an element of spice known at the “Rutherford Dust”. Also, home to the iconic Napa staple Rutherford Grill because what is better than comfort food paired with award winning Napa Valley Wines?

St Helena Wineries, Restaurants and Accommodations

As you venture further north to the town of St. Helena you will be greeted with even more small-town culture. St. Helena is in the center of the worlds famous vineyards of the Napa Valley. Clearly perfect for those with a love of the outdoors and Napa Valley viticulture. Want to enjoy a breath-taking picnic with epic views? Particularly our dreamy Napa Valley Wine Tours will have you falling in love all over again. St. Helena is not only the center of historic Napa Valley Wines, but also the home to some of the best views around.

Note-worthy St Helena Wine Tours: Beringer Winery , Louis Martini Winery , Charles Krug , Pride Mountain Vineyards ., Piazza Del Dotto Winery & Caves , V. Sattui , Brasswood Cellars

Savory Eats: Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch , Press , Charter Oak Restaurant , Goose and Gander , Model Bakery and Gott’s Roadside

Accommodations: Harvest Inn , Southbridge Napa Valley , Wydown Hotel , Alila Napa Valley , Meadowood Resort

Calistoga Wineries, Restaurants and Accommodations

At the peak of the Napa Valley you will find the historic town of Calistoga. With its old western charm its easy to feel like you are transported back in time. With always something new to discover the Napa Wine Tasting experiences run far and wide. From higher end exclusive Napa Wineries to smaller family owned boutique estates there are a plethora of wineries to choose from for your Napa Valley Tour.

Note-worthy Calistoga Wine Tours: Castello di Amorosa , Tamber Bey Vineyards , Schramsberg Vineyards and Chateau Montelena Vineyards

Savory Eats: Sam’s Social Club , Solbar , Calistoga Inn Restaurant and Brewery , and Buster’s Southern BBQ

Accommodations: Solage Auberge Resorts , Indian Springs Calistoga , and Four Seasons

THE 10 BEST Wine Tours & Tastings in California, United States

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• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. Small-Group Wine-Tasting Tour through Napa Valley

2. The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley Classic Tour

3. Small-Group Wine Country Tour from San Francisco with Tastings

4. All-Inclusive Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour of Paso Robles

5. Private Wine Tours of Napa Valley and Sonoma for 2 to 5 people.

6. Temecula's Best Wine Tasting Tour

7. Wine Tasting Audio Tour - Lodi California

8. Sonoma Valley Open Air Wine Trolley Tour

9. 6 Hour Napa or Sonoma Valley Wine Tour by Private SUV

10. Small Group: The Ultimate Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour

11. All-Inclusive Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour from Santa Ynez Valley

12. Muir Woods with Napa & Sonoma Wine Tour

13. Wine Tour Transportation Services in Napa Valley

14. San Francisco Super Saver: Muir Woods & Wine Country w/ optional Gourmet Lunch

15. Wine Tasting Tour in Santa Ynez Valley (All-Inclusive & Full-Day)

16. The Original Napa Valley Wine Trolley "Up Valley" Castle Tour

17. Napa Valley Wineries Tour Including Picnic Lunch

18. Temecula Trolley Tasting Tour

19. ​All-Inclusive Full-Day Wine Tasting Tour from Santa Barbara

20. Best Private Wine Tours of Napa Valley-Sonoma for 4 to 8 people.

21. Malibu Wine, Food & Beach Tour

22. Semi-Private, Modified "Hop-On Hop-Off" Wine Tasting Tour from Paso Robles

23. Half-Day Wine Country Tour from San Francisco

24. Healdsburg Small-Group Food and Wine Walking Tour

25. Paso Robles Wine Tour: We Drive Your Vehicle

26. Temecula wine tasting tour

27. 8-Hour Private Sonoma or Napa Wine Tour with Concierge Service

28. Solvang Valley Small Group All-Inclusive Wine Tour

29. Carmel Small Group Walking Food & Cultural Tour

30. Half-Day Wine Country Experience Including All Tasting Fees

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California Wine Tours

Explore the Best of California Wine Country

Unforgettable California Wine Tours in the Most Famous Wine Region in the U.S.

Embark on an unforgettable California wine tour through iconic regions that have produced some of the most renowned wines in the world.

Led by a guide with over 20 years of experience, discover the diverse landscapes and microclimates that give rise to exceptional wines as you journey through picturesque areas such as Napa, Sonoma, and Santa Barbara, and Paso Robles.

Our wine tours give you exclusive access to acclaimed wineries where you’ll indulge in private tastings in everything from luscious Cabs to elegant Chardonnays and much more.

Come with us to sip and savor the breathtaking vineyards and embark on an unforgettable experience and memories you will cherish for a lifetime. We design these tours with you in mind.

Our California Wine Tours Include

Personal wine expert & guide, in-depth info for each wine & vineyard visited, private winery tours & memorable culinary experiences., free time and visits to local attractions.

Napa Valley Wine Tour & Tasting

Duration: 7 days

Nestled in the heart of California’s wine country, Napa Valley is renowned for its world-class vineyards and prestigious winery estates. During our tours we ensure an unforgettable journey for wine enthusiasts by: 

Sampling a remarkable array of fine wines from across the region. 

Coordinating transportation and accommodations within the area’s breathtaking landscapes.

Arranging all the necessary logistics and taking care of every detail so all participants can indulge on the luxury that the Napa Valley offers. 

We coordinate private tours to Napa Valley year-round. Contact us to sign up and plan a trip of a lifetime.

View Our Itinerary Here

Santa Barbara Wine Tour & Tasting

Embark on an enchanting wine tour in the captivating region of Santa Barbara. Known for its cool coastal breezes and diverse microclimates, Santa Barbara offers a wine experience that is unique thanks to its:

Signature Pinot Noirs and Chardonnays that have been crafted with meticulous attention.

Relaxing atmosphere that is paired up with tasting some of the world’s best coastal wines.  

Local fare with food and wine pairing.

We coordinate tours to Santa Barbara year-round. Contact us to sign up for our next group trip.  

Paso Robles Wine Tour & Tasting

Duration: 7 days

Enjoy an exciting exploration of Paso Robles, which is one of California's hidden gems in the wine country. This package offers an immersive experience into the world of wine through:

Private chefs and/or exclusive dinner reservations at award-winning restaurants.

Reserve upscale hotel accommodations within near proximity of vineyards and/or point of interests.

Coordination of logistics and elegant lodging experiences.

We coordinate private tours to Paso Robles year-round. Contact us and let's start planning your trip.  

View Our Itinerary Here Minimum 4 people.

Sonoma Wine Tour & Tasting

Experience the charm and sophistication of a Sonoma Wine Tour –where rolling vineyards, rustic wineries and a warm hospitality come together in the form of great food, amazing company, and even better wines. Located just a short drive from San Francisco, Sonoma County is famous for incredible heritage and:

Elegant Pinot Noirs, Chardonnays, as well as robust Cabernets and  Zinfandels.

Passionate winemakers who love to showcase their cellars and modern wine processing.

Award-winning restaurants that know how to expertly pair meals with local wine selections.

We coordinate private tours to Sonoma year-round.  Contact us to sign up and plan a trip you will never forget.

Minimum 4 people.

Custom Private California Wine Tour

Duration: Up to You!

California wine regions provide an amazing backdrop for bringing together people and groups in a magical way. Whether you are interested in a multi-region trip or want to create an exclusive tour for you and a loved one, we have the connections to make it happen.  All our custom tour guides will help coordinate:  

Multi-modal transportation experiences (e.g., hot air balloons, boat, limousine, etc.). Personal concierge services available 24/7.

Custom private California Wine Tours are available year-round.  Contact us to get started.  

California Wine Tour Packages

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Napa Valley & Sonoma

Vacation packages, welcome to wine country, adventure out of the city and explore napa valley and sonoma..

More than just two wine regions, the valleys of Napa and Sonoma boast over 30 diverse growing regions, yielding some of the country's – and the world's – most celebrated wines. In the Napa Valley, wind your way up the Silverado Trail for wine tasting, treat yourself to a boutique shopping spree in Yountville, or dine at a Michelin-rated restaurant. Sonoma has a more intimate laid-back atmosphere, especially as you journey north toward Healdsburg and Geyserville. Little towns dot the route and you'll find an abundance of smaller wineries offering unique tasting experiences.

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Costco Member Reviews

The Costco Star Rating assigned to each hotel is only intended as a guideline. The rating is based on information that has been compiled by Costco Travel buyers and might differ from other references.

Property offers the ultimate in elegance and sophistication, with highly personalized service and hospitality.

Property offers upscale design and decor, superior dining venues, manicured grounds, and a high level of service and hospitality.

Property offers above-average accommodations, service, comfort, facilities and grounds.

Property offers basic accommodations, decor, facilities and grounds.

Featured Deals

Napa valley: estate yountville package.

$100 Spa Credit Complimentary Wine Tasting for Two Reduced Mandatory Daily Resort Fee

Included Extras Valued at $210

Sonoma: Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa Package

$50 Resort Credit Waived Mandatory Daily Resort Fee

Included Extras Valued at $117

Napa Valley: Dr. Wilkinson's Backyard Resort & Mineral Springs Package

Daily $75 Resort Credit

Included Extras Valued at $75 per Day

Napa Valley: Carneros Resort and Spa Package

Daily $75 Resort Credit Daily Buffet Breakfast for Two

Included Extras Valued at $145

Sonoma: The Lodge at Sonoma, Autograph Collection Package

Digital Costco Shop Card Waived Mandatory Daily Resort Fee

Included Extras Valued at $45 per Day

Napa Valley: Embassy Suites by Hilton Napa Valley Package

Complimentary Daily Self-Parking Welcome Bottle of Wine Complimentary Internet in Guest Room

Included Extras Valued at $53

Napa Valley: River Terrace Inn - A Noble House Hotel Package

Waived Mandatory Daily Resort Fee

Included Extras Valued at $38 per Day

Sonoma: Hyatt Regency Sonoma Wine Country Package

Daily Buffet Breakfast for Two Welcome Half-Bottle of Wine

Included Extras Valued at $80

More About Napa Valley & Sonoma

Napa Valley, known for its Chardonnay, Merlots, and Cabernet Sauvignon, is a beautiful region comprised of four main towns – Napa, Yountville, St. Helena and Calistoga. With wineries clustered close together, it’s easy to hop from vineyard to vineyard to try it all. A mere hour’s drive away, the neighboring region of Sonoma is home to the main towns of Sonoma and Healdsburg as well as numerous smaller towns, each with its own charming tasting rooms. Unlike Napa Valley, Sonoma sprawls over a much larger footprint so plan for additional travel time between wineries. If you want the freedom to fully soak in the scenery between sips, consider taking part in a tour to facilitate your visit. Both Napa Valley and Sonoma can be enjoyed at any time of the year. In the spring, you’ll witness nature in full bloom. In the summer, exciting events are hosted nearly every weekend. In autumn, experience the harvest and the great crush – the first step of a grape’s transformation into wine. In winter, unwind in the laid-back atmosphere of the luxurious spas. No matter when you choose to visit, an enjoyable experience awaits!

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Before You Go

• To make it easier to replace your passport if it’s lost or stolen, in addition to your passport, take a photocopy of your passport information page (keeping it separate from your actual passport).
• Carry only a limited amount of cash, just enough for gratuities and incidental purchases. Major credit cards are widely accepted and can be replaced if lost or stolen.
• Always lock your hotel room door (including patio and balcony door on any level of the building) and use the peephole before opening the door.
• Store your valuables (such as cash, credit cards and airline tickets) in the hotel’s in-room safe or front desk safety deposit box.
• If you must carry valuables on your person, do so in a pouch or money belt concealed under your clothing. Purses and backpacks can be easy targets for thieves.
• For complete and current safety and security information, including travelers' tips, public announcements, travel advisories and more, please visit the website of the U.S. Department of State at www.travel.state.gov.
• December through February: 56° to 60° (Winter)
• March through May: 64° to 78° (Spring)
• June through August: 87° to 92° (Summer)
• September through November: 88° to 64° (Autumn)

Top Experiences

Sonoma Plaza : Located in the heart of Sonoma, a National Historic Monument that once functioned as a Mexican military station is now an eight-acre park filled with shops and restaurants.

Oxbow Public Market : This public market is a great spot for loading up on picnic essentials or checking out some delicious restaurants. The Oxbow Public Market also features an outdoor patio where you can watch the sunset while enjoying a scrumptious meal.

Wineries : In the mid-70s there were only 25 or so wineries. Now, the region is home to over 800.

Napa Valley Wine Train : The Wine Train offers a journey through the countryside in an antique Pullman railcar while enjoying a gourmet meal. The station is conveniently located in downtown Napa and the train travels to St. Helena and back.

Travel through the lush Napa Valley countryside and be transported back in time. Back to the romance and luxury of the golden age of train travel of the early 1900s, when guests explored the trains beyond their private quarters. Back to a time when a journey was meant to be savored from start to finish. Guests aboard the Gourmet Express experience three delicious courses all served in our exquisite antique Pullman railcars during a three-hour train journey from Napa to St. Helena and back.

Due to the historic nature of some facilities, certain activities may be unsuitable for people with certain mobility limitations. Facilities are not equipped with elevators and have ramp access. If you require a walker or wheelchair, please call the Napa Valley Wine train at 1-800-427-4124 or (707) 253-2111 (open daily from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific Standard Time) to ensure requirements can be accommodated. More information regarding train accessibility can be found on the Napa Valley Wine Train’s website: https://www.winetrain.com/the-wine-train/faq/.

Additional Information

• Enjoy a three-course lunch during a train journey through the countryside from Napa to St. Helena and back.
• Lunch includes a starter (choice of soup or salad), main dish, dessert, coffee and tea. Additional beverages and gratuities are not included.
• Except:  Not available on Easter weekend, Mother’s Day weekend as observed in the US, Memorial Day weekend, 4th of July weekend, Labor Day weekend as observed in the US.
• Sunday, Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday
• Except:  Not available on Valentine's Day weekend, President's Day weekend, Thanksgiving weekend and Christmas week to New Year’s Eve.
• Sunday, Friday, Saturday
• 11:30   a.m. Guests must arrive at 10:30 a.m. for check-in to receive boarding passes and instructions with boarding time.
• A 100% cancellation fee will apply for no-shows or if the reservation is canceled within seven days prior to scheduled tour.

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• NAPA: (707) 257-0887
• SONOMA: (707) 938-8001

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Distinctive Napa Wine Tours and Sonoma Wine Tasting Tours

Your journey lies ahead… Amidst the endless romantic vines and rolling hills, you’ll discover the hidden gems of Napa Valley and Sonoma wine country . Come taste rare vintages, discover new varietals, try barrel tasting, or blend your own wine on our Napa wine tours or Sonoma wine tasting tour. Visit our quaint, boutique wineries and rustic barns, or tour historic caves and large century-old estates. It’s your personal Napa Valley wine tour , Sonoma wine tour , or San Francisco wine tour experience, and Beau Wine Tours will ensure that it is a very special one. Wine Country is a deep-rooted passion; a lifestyle… and we can’t wait to share it with you.

For two decades, Beau Wine Tours & Limousine Service has catered to the most discriminating traveler, providing private Napa wine tours and Sonoma wine tasting tour experiences that are unique to each client’s taste and wine preferences. Whether you are a wine novice, or an experienced collector , we will custom tailor the right tour for you. Our long-lasting relationships with vintners and winemakers in this region are the key to unlocking exclusive access to the road less traveled. It’s this intimate experience and one-on-one connection that sets us apart. As our guest, during your unforgettable stay in wine country, let us pamper you with our signature chauffeur services. These include luxury transfers from airports and hotels to golf resorts, spas, balloon rides, five-star restaurants, and world-class theaters. We provide the highest level of service and comfort without compromise.

Raise your glass for a toast: here’s to a beautiful journey, amazing wine tasting, and a luxurious experience unlike any other. Cheers!

Napa Wine Tours

Is it an intense, dark and saturated Cabernet or a fresh, crisp Chardonnay that you desire? Come along on a Napa Wine Tour, the vineyards are right ahead…producing wine so unique in style and character, to give our valley such world famed recognition. Napa Valley is truly a mecca for Napa wine tasting enthusiasts and collectors, and our private Napa Valley wine tours will expose you to the best Napa Wineries of the region.

Sonoma Wine Tours

Our private Sonoma wine tours could include a drive to Sonoma Wineries along the Pacific coastline, through redwood forests, across fertile valleys, and up the steep mountains that make up beautiful Sonoma County. The weather is nearly perfect and the diverse terrain and microclimates produce the grapes that make Sonoma wine tasting legendary.

San Francisco Wine Tours

Are you planning a trip to San Francisco and the Golden State? The “City by the Bay” has many cultural diversions that will appeal to even the most discerning traveler, including fine dining, performing arts, museums, and art galleries. Perhaps one of the greatest treasures on your San Francisco wine tour lies just north of the Bay, the world-class wine regions of Napa Valley and Sonoma.

BEAU WINE TOURS – NAPA

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Napa Valley Vacation Packages

In four distinctive Napa Valley Vacation Packages, California Tours brings you the best of the unparalleled wine and spa region. You’ll enjoy a full wine country getaway – with private guides, tours and tastings at a hand-selected group of respected wineries in Napa and Sonoma Valleys, and other experiences unique to the area. You’ll return home with a full sense of the scenic region and an enhanced knowledge of great wines to last a lifetime. Three of the vacation packages also include a variety of pampered takes on stunning San Francisco.

Situated in a temperate, hilly part of Northern California, Napa and Sonoma Valleys are known around the world as premier wine-growing areas. Rolling hills covered in vines, hundreds of wineries, charming towns and deluxe spa facilities are yours to enjoy with each Napa Valley Vacation Package. Wine lovers will find much to tempt them on the winery tours and tastings, as they sample the subtle differences in California wines, and try many different varietals, from light sparkling wines to bold Zinfandels. Charming towns in the area, like Napa, Yountville, and St. Helena, offer gourmet restaurants with all-star chefs and fresh regional produce. In the Calistoga area and beyond, plentiful spas are fed by natural mineral spring waters, and spa treatments of all types make this a true oasis for the spirit.

The wine country is located about an hour north of San Francisco, and three of these vacations also bring you the city-by-the-bay in unique style – whether Classic, Deluxe, or Connoisseur. San Francisco is a diverse, colorful and beautiful city, with many neighborhoods, hidden views, and nonstop action. Your tour covers the area, to show off the Golden Gate Bridge, curvy Lombard Street, and all the high points in one of the United States’ most beautiful, creative, and interesting destinations.

Napa Valley Vacation Packages

With the Napa Valley Vacation Packages, below, you’ll fly in and out of San Francisco, and experience the wine country of Napa and Sonoma Valleys. Three packages also include San Francisco, with increasing degrees of comforts, personalized touring, and so forth. The itineraries can be customized to any length and destination to suit your needs.

Napa Valley & San Francisco

Napa valley & san francisco deluxe, napa valley & san francisco connoisseur, napa valley & sonoma valley, contact our private travel consultants, call us for the quickest response.

For all inquiries, including customizing your vacation package, please give us a call for the fastest response. We are able to take into consideration your travel dates, number of travelers, special requests, and more, into the quote request. You can also use the form on the right.

Phone: 415-393-4211

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CENTRAL COAST Wine Tour & HEARST CASTLE TOUR FROM LA OR SF

An exciting, fun filled 3-day experience to discover the treasures on California’s Central Coast Wine Country departing from Los Angeles or San Francisco. You’ll enjoy highlights such as the Pacific Coast Highway Route 1, the extravagant Hearst Castle, quaint coastal Cambria and the award-winning Paso Robles Wine Country. You’re sure to fall in love with the dreamlike beauty of California’s Central Coast on this 3-day package.

Currently available as a private tour package, learn more . 

Experiences

California coast wine tour from los angeles or san francisco.

An exciting, fun filled 3-day experience to discover the treasures on California’s Central Coast departing from Los Angeles or San Francisco.

You’ll enjoy highlights such as the Pacific Coast Highway Route 1, the extravagant Hearst Castle, quaint coastal Cambria and the award-winning Paso Robles Wine Country.

You’re sure to fall in love with the dreamlike beauty of the Central Coast on this multi-day California wine tour.

Tours from Los Angeles

• Central Coast Hearst Castle & Wine Tour | Round-Trip LA
• Central Coast Hearst Castle & Wine Tour | LA to SF

Tours from San Francisco

• Central Coast Hearst Castle & Wine Tour | Round-Trip SF
• Central Coast Hearst Castle & Wine Tour | SF to LA

Train tickets can be purchased directly through Amtrak .

• A unique west coast experience, aboard the Coast Starlight train, widely regarded as one of the most spectacular of all train routes
• Breathtaking views along Pacific Coast Highway Route 1
• A guided tour of the Grand Rooms of Hearst Castle
• Time to explore, shop and eat in the charming seaside town of Cambria
• Visit one winery in Paso Robles
• Explore Tin City , Paso Robles’ hippest tasting destination
• Enjoy comfortable accommodations just steps from downtown in one of the Top 25 coolest towns in America, Paso Robles, where cowboy country meets world-class wine
• The best way to see the most and enjoy every minute

You will board the train to Paso Robles and arrive in the early afternoon in one of the Top 25 coolest towns in America, Paso Robles, where cowboy country meets world-class wine.

Upon arrival, a shuttle will meet you at the train station to bring you to your hotel, where you can drop your bags off until check-in.

Enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure in Paso Robles.

You’ll have plenty of time to visit the charming downtown plaza, the local boutiques, art galleries, assortment of restaurants & cafes, winery tasting rooms, craft breweries, distilleries, cider houses, olive oil offerings and so much more!

Check out our  Things to Do In Paso Robles  page for recommendations. 

On your second day you will enjoy the SLO CAL life on California’s Central Coast on a small-group Hearst Castle & Wine Country tour.

After enjoying breakfast at your hotel (included), you will be picked up directly at the hotel and start the tour with a picturesque drive to Hearst Castle. Here you will take the Grand Rooms tour of the main house and enjoy time to wander the castle grounds.

Afterwards, you’ll head over to the charming coastal town of Cambria where you’ll have time to enjoy lunch and browse the shops, art galleries & town at your leisure (lunch is not included in the tour).

Finally, we will finish the day by heading over the stunning Santa Lucia mountains into Paso Robles Wine Country.

Here you’ll enjoy a tasting at a winery in Paso Robles (tasting fees included) and spend-time in Tin City, Paso Robles’ hippest tasting destination where you can choose from top-quality wines, beer, cider, ice cream, olive oil and more.

At the end of the day we’ll drop you back off at your accommodations.

Enjoy the evening at your leisure exploring the charming downtown restaurants, tasting rooms, art galleries, boutiques and more.

Be sure to ask us for recommendations! 

Enjoy the morning at your leisure before boarding the train in the early afternoon.

Once you board you can opt to make a dinner reservation in the dining car, which is an experience itself and highly recommended.

Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride.

• Train Tickets (Coach Class)
• Shuttle pick-up/drop-off from train station to hotel in Paso Robles
• Two nights of accommodation in Paso Robles (breakfast included)
• Hearst Castle Grand Rooms Tour Ticket
• Visit a winery in Paso Robles (tasting fee included)
• Visit Tin City (There’s so much to choose from, we didn’t want to do it for you! So your time here is at your own expense.)
• Knowledgeable, friendly and experienced local guide on Day 2
• Enjoy the Central Coast to the fullest!
• Your time in Tin City is at your own expense
• Lunch and Dinner
• Gratuity for your guide

Confirmation will be received within 48 hours of booking, subject to availability

Carry-on baggage on the train is limited to 2 personal items, 14x11x7″ / 25lbs per item, and 2 bags, 28x22x14″ / 50lbs per bag, per passenger. You may be charged a baggage fee or denied boarding if your items exceed these limitations.

Children of all ages are welcome on the tour though drinking alcohol is not permitted for those under the age of 21. This tour is not recommended for children under the age of 8 years old. Please bring a valid photo ID.

Wear comfortable shoes and bring layers as the weather is subject to sudden changes. Often, the coastal weather can be cool with some fog and the afternoons can be much warmer with lots of sunshine. It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen.

Please note that the rooms booked on your tour are subject to change and may not be identical to those pictured.

Reviews from Our Guests

• Unforgettable Experience Wow! This trip was perfection and couldn’t be more happy with our experience. Lars was so friendly and so knowledgeable. Every single winery we went to was so tasty and the staff was incredible. I can’t recommend this experience enough! It was our anniversary trip and they made us feel so special at every stop. Kristina planned out our trip perfectly and I can’t wait to come back and do it again. Seriously I can’t tell you how amazing and perfect this trip was and you need to book this trip you won’t regret it. Thank you Lars and Kristina for an unforgettable trip! Simply perfection! Catrina TripAdvisor 10/26/2020
• We had a GREAT time We had a GREAT time. Kristina was more than accommodating with our requests. She made recommendations based on our preferences of wine and went above and beyond to help he have a great time. We even had our fluffy goldendoodle in tour and she had all our stops dog friendly without a worry for us! She even went above and beyond to give us restaurant recommendations as well!We'll be back! Rebecca P. Yelp 7/05/2020
• Best Time with Toast Tours! We had the best time with Toast Tours on our visit to Hearst Castle and Paso wine tasting. Lars and Kristina are wonderful tour operators. I am a seasoned traveler and would highly, highly recommend their tours. Rita Yelp 3/01/2020

Frequently Asked Questions

• Day 1: Depart 10:10 from Los Angeles
• Day 1: Arrive 4:37pm in Paso Robles
• Day 3: Depart 1:38pm from Paso Robles
• Day 3: Arrive 9:00pm in Los Angeles
• Round-Trip SF:
• Day 1: Depart 8:50am from Oakland, Jack London Square
• Day 1: Arrive 1:38pm in Paso Robles
• Day 3: Depart 4:37pm from Paso Robles
• Day 3: Arrive 9:24pm in Oakland, Jack London Square

We recommend arriving to the train station 30 minutes to 1 hour before your scheduled departure time. Please keep in mind, the Coast Starlight is a grand West Coast Train Adventure, en route daily between Los Angeles and Seattle and is frequently subject to delays. If your train is delayed, you will leave or arrive later, but it should not affect your guided Hearst Castle & Wine tour which is on Day 2 of the trip.

Paso Robles is halfway in between San Francisco and Los Angeles, but depending on the direction and the leg travel time is different.

You can expect the following travel times:

• The travel time between Oakland (San Francisco) and Paso Robles by train is about 5 hours (Coast Starlight Train 11).
• The travel time between Paso Robles and Los Angeles is about 7.5 hours (Coast Starlight Train 11).
• The travel time between Los Angeles and Paso Robles is about 6.5 hours (Coast Starlight Train 14).
• The travel time between Paso Robles and Oakland (San Francisco) is about 5 hours (Coast Starlight Train 14).

All connections are direct.

On the Amtrak Train luggage is limited to 2 personal items, 14x11x7 inches (35 x 28 x 18 cm) / 25lbs (11 kg) per item, and 2 bags, 28x22x14 inches (71 x 56 x 36 cm) / 50lbs (23 kg) per bag, per passenger.

You may be charged a baggage fee or denied boarding if your items exceed these limitations.

The Amtrak website has specific carry-on baggage information.

Please note: There is no checked bag service at the Paso Robles train station, so you must carry your bags onto the train with you.

The Coast Starlight is a grand West Coast Train Adventure, en route daily between Los Angeles and Seattle and is frequently subject to delays.

If your train is delayed, you will arrive later at your destination, but it should not affect your tour which is on Day 2 of the trip.

Be sure to check updated train information and plan accordingly. You can check the train status at:  traintracker.toasttours.com .

For the most accurate time, you may also download the  Amtrak App .

In the event of a severe delay or train cancellation, please contact us immediately and we will work to find an alternative solution.

No. Seats are not assigned and you will be able to choose your seat upon boarding the train. Amtrak cannot guarantee that you will be able to sit with other members in your party, unless you are traveling with a child.

You will have a seat reserved in Coach Class, unless you choose to upgrade to the Business Class seat option.

With business class seats you will be seated in a dedicated Business Class train car, with more spacious legroom.

Upon boarding, you will receive a complimentary bottle of water and an on-board credit which may be redeemed in the dining or lounge cars.

In Los Angeles, you will have access to the Metropolitan Lounge (Hours of Operation: 5:00am – 10:00pm) located on the second floor, above the ticket office.

Amenities in the lounge include comfortable, quiet lounge seating, complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, snacks and free WiFi.

Yes. The  café car  is always available for to enjoy a snack or to grab items for takeaway.

Seated dining is also a fun and memorable option on the train and is available by reservation for lunch or dinner. You can make reservations  ON THE TRAIN  only for seated dining in the dining car.

Breakfast is available without a reservation.

You can check the  Amtrak Website  for more information and hours offered.

No, there is no WiFi available in the train or our mini-bus. There is free WiFi in your hotel room.

Hotel check-in time is at 4:00 pm. Your luggage can be stored prior to 4:00pm. Hotel check-out time is 11:00 am. Arrangements may be made for late check-out, depending on availability.

Breakfast is included with your hotel stay and is available in the hotel starting at 6:00am Monday – Friday and 7:00am on Saturday & Sunday.

It is a good idea to bring layers and sunscreen. The coastal weather at San Simeon and Cambria can be very cool and foggy, and Paso Robles can be much warmer with sunny hot weather in the summer.

There are extreme temperature swings from day to night, so mornings and evenings can be much colder as well, with a possible 40F degree temperature swing between day and night.

Wear comfortable shoes, as The Grand Rooms Tour is 60 minutes long and includes approximately 160 steps, both up and down, and a 2/3 mile walk.

1722 Stillwater Ct Paso Robles, CA 93446

Office hours are by appointment only.

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California Winery Advisor

Your Independent Guide to the Wine Country

The Best Napa Valley Vacation Packages

CWA Staff [September 2021]

Many of our readers ask us about the best Napa Valley vacation packages. If you consider yourself a wine connoisseur, Napa Valley is surely one of the destinations on your bucket list. Along with the world-class cabernet sauvignon, this stretch of Northern California boasts an impressive list of amenities for luxury travelers and couples looking for a special weekend away.

The region’s romantic charm and gastronomic delights offer couples a chance to reconnect and foodies a chance to sample the best of California cuisine. Tack on well over 400 wineries and you are sure to find a  Napa Valley vacation package  that fits for tastes, budget, and style.

You can stay in a boutique bed & breakfast for some added privacy or enjoy five-star treatment at one of the lavish resorts . To help you choose the best wine-inspired holiday, we’ve selected some of the best Napa Valley vacation packages available.

(Top Pick) Napa Valley Vacation Packages

Ultimate couples 2-day package in napa valley.

A couple of days in Napa Valley might be all you need to unwind and enjoy some romance with your loved one. And if you get it as an exclusive package deal, your visit to wine country is likely to be taken to another level.

The package includes a stay at Harvest Inn and two days of memorable wine-tasting experiences. It all starts with a private driver picking you up at the accommodation. The first stop is at the legendary Hall Wines, only a short drive away from Harvest Inn.

Wineries You Will Visit On This Napa Vacation Package

A giant rabbit sculpture will wow you the moment you arrive at Hall Wines . And you should be ready for some truly high-end tasting since Hall Wines is renowned for producing 95+ point vintages. But this is just to get your wine buds ready for Frank Family Vineyards.

The Bay Area’s A-list has dubbed Frank Family Vineyards the best tasting room for the eighth consecutive year. The reasons are obvious the moment you set foot on the property. The wines are great with an atmosphere to match, plus you get a lunchtime picnic on the property.

The first day of the tour ends with a tasting at Whitehall Lane . This estate is famous for its sustainable wine-making practices. The winery offers impressive vintages and equally impressive vistas of the surrounding area.

The second day starts at around 11 am with the first stop at Merryvale Winery in St. Helena. This establishment stays true to the legacy of Napa Valley. It’s where you can find some of the best Bordeaux-style blended wines in North America.

From there on, you are taken to the award-winning Auburn James , famous for its artisanal approach to wine-making. This winery is also the place where you’ll have a picnic lunch.

After that, the second day ends with a visit to AXR , among Napa Valley’s newest crop of rising stars. The ultimate visit to AXR includes a full tour of the property and a full round of wine tasting. This is surely one of the best Napa Valley vacation packages for the money.

The Vacation Package Includes Great Dining Experiences

We consider this Napa Valley vacation package a great value because it includes lodging, winery tours, and great food. You will be treated to picnics at both Auburn James and Frank Family wineries. You will enjoy the delicious California cuisine at Harvest Table restaurant after your first day of tasting and breakfast is provided each morning.

Click here for more details about the Couples 2-Day Package in Napa Valley.

Napa and Sonoma Wine Country Tour

Looking for a quick break from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco? If your answer is positive, the Napa and Sonoma Wine Country Tour might be what you are looking for.

The tour begins at the Gray Line Visitor Center in San Francisco. If you are staying at a hotel, feel free to contact the tour operator to pick you up your hotel.

From there, a well-equipped motor coach (complimentary Wi-Fi included) takes you over the Golden Gate Bridge. Approaching Sonoma Valley, you can expect the tour guide to recount exciting tales of Gold Rush fortunes and Spanish missionaries.

Wineries You Will Visit On This Napa Valley Vacation Package

Nicholson Ranch Winery is the first stop. The family-run estate offers some of the best pinot noirs, chardonnays, and merlots in the southern part of Sonoma. From the estate’s patio, visitors can enjoy a picture perfect view of the sloping vineyards. After Nicholson Ranch, you go straight to the heart of wine country.

The tour of Napa Valley vineyards starts with the Madonna Estate in Carneros. This winery is family-owned like the majority of them, except this one also focuses on organic wine production. All the wine tasting, sights, and sounds are likely to make you peckish, just in time for the travel to Sonoma Square for lunch.

If you don’t know it by now, you’ll find out that Sonoma Square is known for the restaurants within and around it. Lunch is not included in the tour, but many would consider this to be a good thing – who wants to eat the same set lunch at the same restaurant with everyone else in the tour.

After that, the tour makes its final stop of the day at Sutter Home , one of the largest independent American wineries. If you had ever browsed in the California aisle of any wine store, you’d have heard of Sutter Home. What’s in store is an afternoon of wine tasting and getting to know the proud history of Sutter, though unlike the former, the latter is completely optional.

The tour ends where it started in San Francisco. We are sure when you are dropped off in Union Square you will consider this one of the best Napa Valley vacation packages you've ever experienced. 

Click here for more information about this one-day Napa Valley excursion.

If you want a little more luxury , you can book an 8-hour private tour of Napa in your own SUV. Click here to book.  

Total Wine Experience

There is no need to break the bank to spend a couple of days in Napa Valley. Case in point is the Total Wine Experience package.

Some of the highlights include leisurely wine tasting at 7 to 10 wineries and accommodation for one night with complimentary continental breakfast. You’ll also get to visit the Marin Headlands and the Muir Woods National Monuments. Plus, it’s not like you have to cram with other guests, as the tour is capped at only 14 people.

On the first day, you head north from San Francisco to the Muir Woods National Monument, where the monument isn’t anything manmade but the entire forest of old-growth redwoods. The tour continues on to a number of wineries in Sonoma Valley. After a busy day of sipping wine, you’ll be dropped at your accommodation near Sonoma Square.

How to spend the evening is completely up to you. There are plenty of restaurants in the area and even more wine-tasting rooms.

On the second day, the wine-tasting adventure continues with a ride to Glen Ellen for the first stop at Benziger Family Winery.

While there, first up is an educational tram tour of the winery, vineyards, and wine caves. This is followed by a wine-tasting session at Benziger’s private room, to be rounded off with an organic lunch. After that, there are a few more stops in Sonoma and Napa Valley before heading back to San Francisco.

Total Wine Experience is an excellent option for those who prefer a more laid-back wine country experience. In addition, the itinerary allows you to explore the area around Sonoma Square on your own.

Click here to find out more about this affordable package.

3-Day Tour to Muir Woods, Napa Valley, and Sonoma County

This is one of the most comprehensive tours of the major US wine-making regions. It includes a visit to landmark wineries, a walk in the Muir Woods National Monument, and quite the gastronomic experience. Those elements combine to make this one of the best Napa Valley vacation packages. 

From San Francisco, the first stop on the first day is at Muir Woods. That’s for a chance to walk beneath some of the tallest trees in the world. From there on, your next stop is Cheese Country. En route, you can bet your last nickel that the driver or tour guide would point out the oak-covered slopes and pastures of Martin County hillsides.

The local producers’ award-winning cheeses are bound to get your taste buds going and ready for the town of Petaluma, where exceptional wine-tasting rooms and cafes that serve local and international cuisines await. In the afternoon, you’ll hit in no particular order B.R. Cohn Winery, Kunde Family Winery, Ravenswood Winery, and more.

On the second day, the tour makes its first stop at Domaine Chandon, known for its sparkling wines and champagnes. The second and middle day is filled. You’ll visit the town of Yountville, where you’re to grab a traditional lunch at Oakville Grocery and make a stop at the Culinary Institute of America. The afternoon is reserved for tasting at some of the best wineries in the area.

The final day begins with a stroll at Jack London’s Beauty Ranch (Jack London State Park) . While there, if you are down for some biodynamic wines, you can choose to visit Benziger Family Winery off London Ranch Road, though the admission fee is not included in the tour.

Finally, it’s off to Cornerstone Sonoma for lunch, where you can also appreciate the works of local artists and taste some of the locally-produced spirits.

Click here to see the full offer.

The Final Sip

So there you go, you can have your pick of the best Napa vacation packages . Each offers a special chance to get up close and personal with America’s premier wine country. And remember, Napa Valley offers so much more than just great wines.

There are also great food and some of the most iconic landmarks in all of California. Don’t hesitate to explore and find just the right Napa Valley getaways that suit all your senses.

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Q:   What is a winery tour? A:  A winery tour guide will generally walk you through their winemaking facilities (the winery itself) and explain how their wine is made. You will see how one of their grapes is turned from fruit into wine.

Q:  What is a vineyard tour? A:  A vineyard tour means that you will be walking through the grapevines – the vineyard itself – and learn what makes those vines so special, how they are farmed, and what wine they will be made into.

Q:    When do I get to taste wine?  A:  Each winery/vineyard sets up their tours differently – sometimes you will get to taste wine during the tour, sometimes you will taste wine afterwards.

Q:  How much do winery or vineyard tours cost, and how do I go on one? A:  Tours range from free to $45. Click on a winery name below to view their tour details and contact information.

Q:   How do I tour different wineries or vineyards? A:  There are touring companies that provide transportation to and from wineries, so you don’t have to worry about driving.  Click here to view transportation companies.

Q:   Are these generally by appointment? A: Yes

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The 9 best napa valley wine tours of 2024.

Guided tours are the most fun (and safest) way to enjoy Napa's world-famous wines.

The Best Napa Valley Wine Tours

Courtesy of Napa Valley Wine Train

When it comes to drinking wine in Napa Valley , a guided tour isn't just an option; it's an essential experience. Not only will an organized tour provide you with local insight, but it's also a safe, easy and efficient way to sample the region's renowned wine.

From train rides through the countryside to private tours with your own chauffeur, these are the best Napa Valley wine tours based on recent traveler reviews. Note that participants must be 21 or older to participate in any of the recommended outings.

Napa Valley Wine Train – The Legacy Experience

Price: From $625 per person Duration: 6 hours

One of the most popular ways to explore California wine country, the Napa Valley Wine Train offers a variety of experiences. Travelers wanting to visit some of the wineries should book The Legacy Experience, which stops at three vineyards, including two of the best wineries in Napa Valley : V. Sattui and Charles Krug. It also includes a photo-op at the historic Welcome to Napa Valley sign, a four-course meal (served throughout the day) and a welcome glass of sparkling wine. All wine tasting fees are included in the tour rate.

The tour lasts six hours in total, three of which are spent on the train. Check-in begins at 9:45 a.m., the train departs at 10:15 and the tour concludes around 4:30 p.m. Despite the steep cost of tickets (which varies by day), travelers say this Napa Valley wine tour is a must. They also note how delicious the food is.

Check prices & availability on:

Napa Valley Wine Trolley – Daily Tour

Price: From $125 per person Duration: 6.5 hours

Explore California wine country aboard one of the Napa Valley Wine Trolleys, which resemble San Francisco's iconic open-air cable cars. The six-hour Daily Tour stops at three wineries in the lower half of the valley; specific wineries vary from day to day. Drivers double as guides and provide information about the region and its best-known product, and patrons generally find them to be both very informative and amusing.

The tour departs from the Oxbow Public Market in downtown Napa at 10 a.m. daily, with pickups at select Napa Valley hotels starting earlier. Tickets include transportation, guide gratuity and a picnic lunch, but exclude winery tasting fees, which range from $30 to $40 per person at each winery. If you're looking to visit Castello di Amorosa (the popular winery that resembles a castle) in particular, take the Up Valley Tour .

Platypus Wine Tours – Join-in Wine Tour of the Napa Valley

Price: From $130 per person Duration: 6.5 hours

Platypus Wine Tours escorts tour-takers to three area wineries over the course of approximately 6.5 hours. Wineries visited depend on availability and change from one tour to the next, though they tend to be small, family-owned operations. Drivers/guides earn enthusiastic praise for being knowledgeable, professional and personable. Tours typically depart from a central location in Napa (for those driving into Napa), but pickups from nearby hotels are also available. Group sizes range from eight to 12 participants.

Tickets include a picnic lunch at one of the stops as well as bottled water aboard the bus. Tasting fees at the wineries are not included. Platypus also offers tours of Sonoma Valley as well as private tours.

Courtesy of Napa Valley Bike Tours

Napa Valley Bike Tours – Full-Day Napa Valley E-bike Tour

Price: From $199 per person Duration: 5.5 hours

Cycle to two different wineries on this electric bike ride. Along the route, guides share information regarding the region and wine-making, and they are widely regarded as knowledgeable and helpful. The bike tours, which are restricted to six participants, begin in Yountville at 10:30 a.m. and end around 4:30 p.m.; this includes bike fitting and riding instruction.

Tickets include use of an e-bike and helmet as well as lunch from Bouchon Bakery, a local favorite. They do not cover winery tasting fees, though some of these fees may be waived with a minimum wine purchase. The tour covers a total of 12 to 17 miles, with an average 3 to 6 miles between stops. If that seems overwhelming, you can opt for a half-day outing with a stop at one winery.

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Napa Valley Wine Country Tours – Join-in Daily Wine Tour (Napa Hotels)

Price: From $119 per person Duration: 6 hours

You'll visit three wineries, ranging from well-known vineyards to small, family-owned establishments, on this Napa wine tour. Drivers, who are generally found to be both friendly and accommodating, provide insider information about the region during trips between the wineries. Along with the chauffeurs, travelers also enjoy the wineries selected for the tour. Buses pick up tourgoers from Napa area hotels between 10 and 11 a.m. and tours typically end at about 4 p.m.

The picnic lunch at one of the stops and tasting fees are not included.

Napa Native – Private Wine Tour

Price: From $570 Duration: 6 to 8 hours

A lifelong Napa Valley resident curates and leads this small-group tour. You'll visit three to four boutique wineries, providing your preferences to the company during the booking process. Guides share information about wine-making along the way, which tour-takers tend to find exceptionally insightful.

Tours rates can vary by group size and include a 20% gratuity. Tours start at 10 a.m. daily and include a break for lunch (which is not included in rates), or you can preorder a picnic lunch. Wine tasting fees are also extra. Napa Native Tours also offers a tour with a winemaker as well as tours for larger groups.

Courtesy of Laces & Limos

Laces & Limos – "Just Us 2" Napa Wine Safari

Price: From $695 for two people Duration: 5.5 hours

For your romantic getaway in California , book a private wine safari for two. Offered by Laces & Limos, this one-of-a-kind tour will take you to Napa Valley wineries in an open-air tuk-tuk, which departs the Archer Hotel in Napa at 11:30 a.m. daily. It also inclues a picnic lunch complete with charcuterie, cheeses and small bites. Recent reviewers say they were blown away by this tour, and especially enjoyed taking in the beautiful views and fresh air from their tuk-tuk.

Tasting fees at the wineries and gratuity are not included. Laces & Limos also offers another Napa Wine Safari for up to six people.

A Limo Excursion and Wine Tours LLC

Price: From $1,440 per group (up to 14 guests) Duration: 8 hours

Looking for someone to drive you to the Napa Valley wineries of your choice? You can do that, too. Especially fun for groups (think bachelorette parties and girls getaways ), this 14-passenger Mercedes limo sprinter bus is driven by a private chauffeur (who is always the highlight of the tour, according to recent tourgoers). The eight-hour winery tour includes stops at three to four vineyards, though wine tasting fees are not included in rates nor are gratuities.

Beau Wine Tours

Price: Varies by tour Duration: Varies by tour

Another customizable experience, Beau Wine Tours helps travelers choose the best vineyards to visit based on their wine preferences and the type of vinos each local American Viticultural Areas produces. The company offers a range of tours to suit all kinds of travelers, including the Intro to Napa Valley Tour, with the option to make it a multiday excursion; the Howell Mountain Tour, where you'll taste robust reds in Napa Valley's first AVA; and a Collector's Wine Tasting Tour to small, more exclusive wineries. Beau Wine Tours come highly recommended by travelers, especially for special events.

Frequently Asked Questions

August through October, which coincides with the harvesting season, is the best time to visit Napa Valley . March through May is also a nice, often less-crowded time to visit.

The best Napa wine tours start at around $120 per person; fees will increase depending on tour inclusions (such as meals, gratuities and tastings). Prices may also fluctuate based on tour group size as well as the time of year and day of week.

Yes, it is recommended that you tip both your tour guide and your tasting host at each vineyard. Some tours include gratuities in rates, which may be something you want to look for when booking your tour.

None of the wineries have a dress code, so opt for casual (but not too casual) and comfortable. Think flowy sundresses, wide leg pants, khaki shorts or pants, dark jeans and nice tops (blouses, collared shirts) with sandals or sneakers. You'll also want to bring a light jacket as it can get chilly on some of the vineyards, even in the summer.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel 

Amanda Norcross has previously traveled to Napa Valley, visiting select wineries on her own and also with a tour. She always recommends a tour, not just for a designated driver with a local's perspective, but also because you get to meet and imbibe with other fun and interesting tourgoers along the way. She used her personal experience and insights from other travelers to determine the best wine tours in Napa Valley. Cheers!

You may also be interested in:

• The Best Santa Barbara Wine Tours
• The Best Places to Visit in California
• The Best Small Towns to Visit in the U.S.

Tags: Tours , Vacations , Travel , California , Food Vacations , California Vacations , US Vacations , U.S. West Vacations

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Sip back and enjoy the ride…, call us today (209) 747-6658, experience lodi wine country with us, tours available 7 days a week.

Sip Shuttle is the Lodi wine tasting experience you have been looking for! We run daily from 11:00-4:30. Book today so you can "Sip back and enjoy the ride".

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Your tour guide will set up your lunch at the second winery of the day. All lunches are prearranged and chosen at the time of checkout. Tuesday-Saturday Lunch Options Carmel Crunch- Smoked Turkey, Monterey Jack, Sprouts and Tomatoes Grape Stomp- House Pastrami, Jack Cheese, Mendocino Mustard, Lettuce and Tomatoes Virgin Vegetarian- Monterey Jack, Swiss Cheese, Chunky Avocado Spread, Lettuce and Tomatoes All sandwiches come with chips and cookie Sunday & Monday Lunch Options Turkey on Ciabatta with Pasta Salad and Cookie Roast Beef on Ciabatta with Pasta Salad and a Cookie Veggie Wrap with Green Salad and Cookie Dill Chicken Salad on Croissant with Green Salad and Cookie

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FAQ's Q. Is Alcohol allowed on the shuttle? A. To ensure you have the best experience wine tastings we do not allow drinking on the shuttle. The drive time between wineries is under 10 minutes. Q. Where do we park? (If meeting at School Street Location) A. If you are checking in at our pickup location, 14 S School Street, Lodi CA. Please park in the parking garage located at 50 N Sacramento Street, Lodi CA. There you will have no pay, all day parking. It is located within one block of our check-in location. Q. Can we choose our wineries? A. If you would like to choose the 4 wineries you would like to visit please email us choices by Wednesday before your scheduled trip so we can make reservations. Q. What is our Tour Payment & Cancellation Policy? A. Payment is required in full at time of reservation. Ticket sales are final sale and non-refundable. Does not include driver gratuity

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Went to Lodi for my birthday and SIP shuttle made the trip perfect! From the courtesy shuttle to and from my hotel, the history of Lodi and the wineries throughout the day, a birthday card (very sweet surprise), the whole day was perfect! Bonnie Monroe Facebook Review

Soooo much fun! Well organized and will be defenitly doing this again!! Almarosa Vargas Facebook Review

Had a blast with Sip Shuttle yesterday. They took us to three wineries and showed us a fantastic time. I especially liked the trivia and knowledge they had. I can't wait to come back and take a ride on the shuttle again! Josh M. Yelp Review

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A first-timer's guide to Napa Valley

Apr 28, 2024 • 11 min read

Get to know Napa Valley with our first-timer's guide © Cassiohabib / Shutterstock

Napa Valley is synonymous with luxury. Posh hotels, chef-driven restaurants and extravagant tasting fees cemented that reputation decades ago.

But at its core, Napa is farm country— a place where people dig in the dirt and make a living from the land. Despite all odds, this gives Napa a grounded feeling, even in its swankiest spaces. At the end of the day, visitors come to Napa Valley because they love food, wine and beautiful scenery. It’s a passion shared by the community of this incredible locale. 

The five towns of Napa Valley (St Helena, Yountville, the city of Napa , Calistoga  and American Canyon) are home to 16 wine appellations and more than 400 wineries. The options can be daunting to first-time visitors but we’re here to help. From mud baths in Calistoga to tips for visiting wineries, our first-timer’s guide to Napa Valley will give you everything you need to know to plan a trip here, including the best hotels, wineries, restaurants and activities.

When is the best time to visit Napa? 

It’s always a good time to visit Napa in our book, however, the timing of your trip will impact your experience. Peak tourist season is in summer when the average high temperature is 82°F. If you plan to visit this time of year, you’re unlikely to find any bargains. Make your reservations for lodging, restaurants and wineries as far in advance as you can.

Spring and fall are the next busiest times of the year. Spring brings average high temperatures of 68°F while in fall, high temperatures average 78°F. The lower, but still pleasant, temps are especially appealing for visitors who plan to hike, bike or engage in other outdoor activities. 

Winter temperatures reach an average high of 60°F. This season gets the most rain (although this is California so there will still be plenty of dry, beautiful days). Since winter is the least crowded, it is the most affordable time to visit Napa with many hotels, resorts and spas advertising special packages and discounts off their regular rates.

How much time should I spend in Napa? 

Set aside three to four days for your Napa Valley itinerary. This allows enough time to visit your top wineries and restaurants, plus time for other activities like spa treatments, hiking, lounging by the pool or riding the wine train.

What are the top things to do in Napa Valley? 

Most people come to Napa to visit wineries – more on that later – but don’t overlook Napa’s exceptional culinary, wellness and recreation opportunities.

You can get filthy (in the best possible way) at the north end of the county in Calistoga. Calistoga is recognized around the world for mud made with a mixture of mineral-packed volcanic soil and water drawn from local hot springs. The two most common treatments involve painting it on your body or soaking in a tub of warm, nurturing mud. At least seven spas offer Calistoga mud experiences including the luxurious Spa Talisa at the Four Seasons Resort and Residences and the do-it-yourself mud bar at MoonAcre Spa and Baths . 

Calistoga is also home to two of Napa Valley’s most unique natural attractions. The Old Faithful Geyser is a smaller, but still impressive version of Yellowstone’s most famous jet spout . In Calistoga, Old Faithful shoots hot water 30–80ft towards the sky every 10 to 20 minutes. Just outside of Calistoga at the Napa/Sonoma border, a three million-year-old petrified forest with 1.5 miles of hiking trails provides a fascinating glimpse at geological history. 

No trip to the valley would be complete without a trip to downtown Napa’s Oxbow Public Market ,  a 40,000-sq-ft marketplace packed with locally sourced culinary delights. From California-grown olive oil at the Olive Press to artisan cheeses at the Oxbow Cheese and Wine Merchant , this is the place to stock up for a picnic or edible souvenirs. You’ll also find a bookstore, distillery, bakeries and restaurants. After you’ve finished browsing, find a seat on the riverfront deck out back to sample fresh oysters on the half shell from Hog Island Oyster Bar .  

With menus centered around locally-grown ingredients, Napa is almost as famous for fine dining as it is for wine. Food this fresh is revelatory. A dish, such as fermented soy dip served with raw vegetables pulled from the ground at the Charter Oak , will ruin you forever for grocery store veggies. Other bucket-list dining experiences include the six-course prix-fixe chef’s tasting menu at La Toque , the daily tasting menu at the French Laundry , and Kenzo Napa , where seafood is flown in daily from the finest fish market in Japan. Please note that reservations at these restaurants are coveted, and should be made as far as possible in advance. 

Don’t let these vaunted names fool you into thinking you need to spend a fortune to get a good meal in Napa. The valley is filled with scores of reasonably-priced restaurants including Heritage Eats in Napa where you can feast on comfort foods like a smoked ham bowl or white cheddar mac and cheese for less than $15 a person. For tasting menus, Thomas Keller’s ad hoc offers a daily tasting menu currently priced at $56 a person for lunch or $69 a person at dinner. The  Gate House Restaurant at the Culinary Institute of America offers three courses prepared by student chefs for $35 at lunch or four courses for $45 at dinner (please note that restaurant prices are always subject to change). 

For nightlife, the Blue Note Napa Jazz Club hosts an exciting mix of live performances ranging from household names to rising stars and tribute bands. It also holds the Summer Sessions outdoor concert series and the Black Radio Experience at the Meritage Resort and Spa . If you’re on the hunt for a good dive bar, Ana’s Cantina in downtown St Helena is the place for a game of pool, tunes from the jukebox and a stiff drink.

Other top activities in Napa Valley include hiking or biking the 12.5-mile  Napa Valley Vine Trail , which will eventually extend 47 miles from Vallejo to Calistoga.

Tips for visiting wineries in Napa 

Gone are the days when you can walk into virtually any Napa Valley winery and ask for a tasting without an appointment (or even a fee). Although there are a few wineries like Hall Wines in St Helena, where walk-ins are welcome, reservations are required at most wineries in Napa Valley. This helps ensure the wineries have adequate time to guide you through your tasting. From the guest's perspective, appointments are helpful when it comes to budgeting, arranging transportation and planning your Napa itinerary.

The average wine tasting fee in Napa Valley is $40 per person but it isn’t unusual for prices to climb to $200 or even more. Most wineries have a menu of tasting options, with standard tastings at the low end and premium experiences with food pairings, library wines, or guided tours commanding a higher price. Please note that the tip is not included in the tasting price so it will need to be factored into your budget. 

Expect to spend at least 90 minutes at each winery (often longer for premium experiences). For this reason, it’s best to stick to no more than two or three tasting room visits a day. We recommend clustering each day’s reservations in the same area so you won’t have to rush between wineries. For instance, in the Stag’s Leap District, Cliff Lede Vineyards and Baldacci Family Vineyards are only a mile apart. Cliff Lede’s Backstage Lounge Tasting Room Experience offers an elevated tasting with premium wines in a room filled with rotating art and rare rock memorabilia. At Baldacci, the Cave Tour and Tasting Experience includes a cave tour and barrel tasting followed by a seated tasting paired with seasonal appetizers. 

In the Rutherford area, Sullivan Winery is only half a mile from the Prisoner Wine Company . At Sullivan, the Merlot Mastery Tasting starts with a tour of the gardens and grounds before moving on to a seated tasting with two flights of its prized merlot accompanied by light bites. At Prisoner, you’ll find many culinary pairings including the Wine and Dim Sum Experience. 

Attire is wine country casual. A pair of nice jeans, golf shirts, sundresses or casual blouses are the norm in Napa Valley. Do wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk through the vineyards or participate in a tour.

Expert tip: The Covet Pass offers complimentary tastings at seven Napa wineries and seven Sonoma wineries, plus additional discounts for a one-time fee of $150. 

How to get around in Napa without a car

Napa Valley is 30 miles long and stretches at most 5 miles wide. In this sense, Napa is small and easy to navigate, but driving can be tricky in a destination centered around wine. Luckily, if you don’t have a designated driver there are several ways to get around Napa without a car. 

The Napa Valley Wine Train offers several tasting journeys including a 36-mile roundtrip through gorgeous scenery to disembark for seated tastings at Charles Krug Winery and V. Sattui Winery . A four-course lunch is served onboard. You can also hitch a ride to three tasting rooms in an open-air San Francisco cable car on the Napa Valley Wine Trolley . 

Many tour operators provide transportation to Napa wineries. Several, like Napa Valley Wine Country Tours , offer a choice between public group tours, which are less expensive, or private tours with a customized itinerary. 

If you prefer to get around by foot, base yourself in the cities of Napa or Yountville. Napa has more than 50 downtown tasting rooms and there are 14 walkable tasting rooms in downtown Yountville. 

Where to stay

If there was ever a place to treat yourself to a nice hotel, it’s Napa Valley. The region is home to some of the best hotels in the country, with grounds and accommodations so astonishingly beautiful you might not want to leave to go wine tasting (but definitely leave to go wine tasting). If you’re in the position to splurge our top picks are: 

The Poetry Inn is an exclusive property with only five guest rooms and a small, on-site spa. The all-suite hotel is the epitome of privacy and luxury with huge guest rooms featuring private sitting areas, outdoor patios, and indoor and outdoor showers with stunning hillside or vineyard views. A gourmet multicourse breakfast is included with each stay. Poetry Inn is the only hotel in the Stag Leap district. 

Meadowood Napa Valley in St Helena is set on a magnificent 250-acre estate with mature, oaks and native plants surrounding 36 suites and guest rooms with soaking tubs and private outdoor sitting areas. Hiking trails, tennis courts, swimming pools, a Wine Center and a tranquil spa ensure you’ll never lack activities during your stay. 

Carneros Resort and Spa offers standalone cottages and homes surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards in Napa. Amenities include a luxurious onsite spa, two swimming pools, pickle ball courts with an adjacent Veuve Clicquot Champagne Bar and Lounge, a complimentary buffet breakfast, and access to Cadillac Luxury Vehicles during your stay. 

If a mid-range hotel is better suited for your budget we recommend the Meritage Resort and Spa or Silverado Resort . The Meritage offers perks like a complimentary shuttle service to downtown Napa and a verdant lawn surrounded by tasting rooms and an upscale market. At the Silverado Resort, amenities include golf courses, bocce ball courts, a pool and a fitness center.

The most affordable lodging options in Napa Valley are generally found in American Canyon, which offers several reliable, reasonably-priced chains such as the DoubleTree by Hilton Napa Valley American Canyon and Holiday Inn Express and Suites Napa Valley American Canyon .

My favorite thing to do in Napa 

When I come to Napa I love to take a class to enhance my appreciation of food and wine or learn a fun, new skill. I’ve never been anywhere else where classes are so varied and accessible, so I take advantage whenever I can. Often, these classes are offered directly through my hotel. The Wine Center at Meadowood Napa Valley runs classes ranging from introductory tutorials on Napa wine to advanced courses on subjects like the history of the wine label. Carneros Resort and Spa has a dazzling array of daily classes focusing on everything from sabering champagne bottles to pickleball. 

The Culinary Institute of America is my hands-down choice for cooking classes with options for group or private instruction. I’ve also found classes offered at Napa Valley wineries. Bouchaine Vineyards regularly hosts an exciting roster of sessions on topics like pairing wine and cheese, blending wine and even falconry. 

How much do you need to budget for a trip to Napa?

The amount you’ll need to spend on a trip to Napa is highly variable depending on your itinerary and even the season you choose to visit. Although it is generally considered a luxury destination, you can still plan an affordable trip to Napa with the tips and tricks in this first-timer’s guide. The numbers below are not definitive but will provide a general idea of how much it costs for budget-conscious, midrange, and luxury travelers to visit Napa.

• Hotel room for two: $100–1200 a night 
• Rental home/Airbnb for two: $200–1000 a night 
• Wine tasting fees: $25–250 per person at each winery (not including tip) 
• Lunch for two: $30–100 per person
• Dinner for two: $100–300 per person (or more)
• Glass of wine: $13–50 
• Bottle of wine: $108 average
• Group shuttle to wineries: $125 per person
• Private transportation to wineries: $600 (and up) 
• Spa treatment: $100–400 per person (and up)

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