napa valley travel guide

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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The Ultimate Napa Valley Travel Guide – 2024

If you’re looking for  the ultimate travel guide to Napa Valley – look no further. 

To me, there’s no vacation quite like Napa.

Picture-perfect vineyards rolling over the golden hills of California, Five-star farm-to-table restaurants with wine lists bigger than their entire menus, cozy, understated resorts with soothing spas and bubbling hot tubs, tennis courts teeming with relaxed vacationers, golfers with bottles of wine carefully tucked neatly into their carts, Bikers biking the valley from winery to winery. Cuddling up to a fireplace in your suite with a glass of the best red wine you’ve ever had.

If this sounds like your paradise as much as it does mine, let’s toast to Napa Valley.

Table of Contents

SOME QUICK NAPA HISTORY:

In 1976, a wine tasting called “The Paris Tasting” took place in France that changed the future of California wines forever. Like crusty old admissions officers contemplating the acceptance of an eager freshman into their established, hundreds-of-years-old University, accredited French wine professionals blind-tasted French red and white wines against California Cabernet Sauvignons and Chardonnays, and, shocking just about everyone in the world as much as it shocked the tasters themselves, the California wines won. Stags Leap Wine Cellar’s Cabernet Sauvignon and Chateau Montelena’s Chardonnay took first place and, for the first time in history, it became clear that someone could rival the French when it came to wine . Somms all over France scratched their heads while California, and the rest of the world, responded rapidly. In the next ten years, the number of California wineries more than tripled, and, in the 40 years since the tasting, the quality and price of California wines has climbed sevenfold, soaring their retail value to over $14 billion last year.

If I sound passionate about this, it’s because I absolutely am.

I love wine.

I love the complexity of everything that goes in to creating this drink that humans have enjoyed for thousands of years. I love how a bottle of wine evolves immensely with time, and with each person’s unique taste. I love thinking about how much has to go exactly right in creating a great bottle of wine… and more than anything, I love that vineyards, like people, must go through immense stress in order to bear better fruit.

A perfect environment will create a mediocre, ordinary wine. A struggling vine will produce an extraordinary wine. They say that this is why the Napa Valley makes such amazing wines, as the earthquake faults under the ground make for nicely complex and diversified soil, and a perfectly stressful environment for Napa vines to grow.

Where to wine taste in Napa Valley

There are hundreds of wineries to taste wine in Napa, Yountville, Saint Helena, Calistoga , Sonoma, and Healdsburg, so it can be overwhelming to choose where to wine taste – and the truth is there are VERY different wine tasting experiences to choose from – so here are my favorites, broken out by type of tasting experience to help you find the perfect wineries for your trip:

*JETSET TIP* Be sure to google map out your wineries ahead of time. I’d recommend no more than 3 in a day for most people (You can poteeeentially do 4, but it’s really pushing it, I have much better experiences in Napa when I do just a couple per day, and take our time there). Be sure the map of the wineries you choose make sense and are near each other!

The best ‘classic Napa’ wineries

Best for: first-timers to napa, those wanting to learn more about the region, how to wine taste, etc. these are my favorite ‘welcome to napa’ tastings..

Beringer – This beautiful, family-owned winery since the 1800s is a great first tour for first time Napa-goers. They will teach you how to taste wine, pair it with cheese, and the nuances behind each sip. I love the barrel tasting tour because you get to taste directly from cabernet in an aging oak barrel! Also a great winery for groups. 

Inglenook (Napa) – A splurge of a tasting that, in my opinion, is completely worth it if you’re only in Napa once. this is Francis Ford Coppola’s winery and is a beautiful property with fantastic wines. My favorite? The Rubicon. 

Chateau Montelena – This gorgeous ivy-covered chateau was made famous for beating out the French in the Paris Tasting. Their wine is delicious, and the estate is absolutely gorgeous. Make a reservation before you go!

Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars (Napa)  – Easily one of Napa’s most famous wineries – Stag’s Leap was the Cabernet Sauvignon that took place in the famous Paris Tasting in the 1970’s. Their Fire & Water tour is incredible – and their cabernets are some of the best in the Valley.

courtesy of: Grgich Hills

Grgich Hills (Napa) – Fantastic wines in a great atmosphere. Mike Grgich was the winemaker at Chateau Montelena in the 1970’s and soon after his famed win of the Paris Tasting, he went off to create his own label. He and his Croatian family are fantastic and it is immediately evident that this winery is run with the love and care of a family-run venture. I also love their outdoor tasting areas, and think it’s a perfect place to soak up the sunshine if you’re tasting on a sunny day!

Hall Winery (St. Helena) –  Hall Winery makes some seriously good (more high-end) cabernets, and has one of the prettiest tasting areas, too! All tasting are private and conducted outdoors. Reservations are required for all experiences and limited to 6 guests. HALL Winery is located a few minutes drive south from St. Helena – along the busy “wine strip” section of Highway 29 that features some of the larger, historic and more well-known wineries in the valley, so it’s easily accessible during a busy day of tastings! Though it’s easy to get to, the winery is set back from the highway, so it never feels overly busy here. I love it!

Far Niente Winery – Far Niente is well regarded throughout Napa and everywhere as one of the very best wines, and their property is as beautiful and elegant as you would expect. Sister winery to Nickel & Nickel, Far Niente has an amazing tour and tasting for first-timers to Napa who know good wine!

Sterling – It’s super touristy but if that’s your vibe, Sterling is famous for its over-the-top gondola ride to their tasting room! A great spot for out-of-towners to get a view of the vineyards. Tastings start at $29.

Del Dotto St. Helena Venetian Estate – If you want to feel like you’re wine tasting in the hillsides of Tuscany, this is your spot. The winery pays homage to the family’s Venetian heritage dating back to 1150.  The cathedral-like estate sits on the original Rutherford vineyard, and the winery and caves is unlike any other property in Napa Valley and a must-see. I love it here!!

The best wineries to taste with a group of friends

Domaine Carneros (Sonoma) – always a go to for bubbly in Sonoma ! BEAUTIFUL spot, and such impeccable service. I love it so much, and spend so much time here, I might as well just move in.

Jordan Winery (Healdsburg/Sonoma) – I have always loved Jordan Winery, and all of their wines (champagne, cab sauv, and chardonnay!) It’s one of the most beautiful wineries in Sonoma and they put on a great tasting and tour. Go for a lunch pairing if you can! It’s a must-do in Alexander Valley. 

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Artesa Winery   (Napa) – Architecturally stunning contemporary winery with a fun Spanish flare (their owners have been making wine in Spain since the 1500’s!) I absolutely loved their pintxo’s food pairing tasting. This place would also be amazing for a group – and is one of the first wineries driving up from San Francisco to the Valley, making it an easy day trip for San Francisco travelers. 

V. Sattui Winery (Napa) – This lovely winery is perfect for a picnic. They have a big deli full of awesome lunch options and picnic tables outside – their tastings are affordable and the fact that you can bring your own food in makes this a fantastic lunch & wine spot.

Castello di Amorosa (Napa) – it’s a castle, literally. Beautiful spot. One of my favorite places to bring newcomers to Napa because of it’s gargantuan appeal. Tastings starting at $20.

With friends at Castello di Amarosa, a great spot for a group

Flowers Winery (Sonoma) – Always a go-to of mine! This beautiful tasting room with insta-worthy outdoor cabanas and indoor spaces. I love their chardonnay and Pinot so much and I buy it at home a lot – however, I must say that although this is one of the most beautiful tastings, I had a very negative experience the last time I was there with their hospitality manager, who was quite rude to our group for no reason! Just a caveat to be aware of!!! Great wine, but could have better service lately. 

The best small producer wine tastings in Napa / Sonoma

Best for: Napa honeymooners, those who LOVE wine and are looking for the best of the best in the valley, and are looking to discover new small production boutique, family run wineries.

AXR Winery (Napa)

AXR is my favorite winery right now. Surrounded by redwoods, it’s a beautiful tribute to the way wine tasting in Napa used to be, but with a fun, edgy modern touch that I just can’t get enough of. In the summer, AXR’s outdoor patio is the place to be, and, in the winter, their beautiful main house or chic farmhouse cabanas are all amazing. Every time you taste here you’ll have a different experience  –  and  their wines are SO good. I think I bought an entire case last time I went (I LOVE their chardonnay!)

Handwritten wines (Napa)  – this is a new tasting room but a well known wine in Napa Valley – they don’t distribute their wines so everything is only available for members and tasting room visitors! It’s a gorgeous spot right in downtown Yountville – and their chard and cabernet sauvignons are TO DIE FOR. Their winemaker came from Cakebread, Rombauer, La Crema and more before going into Handwritten – so it’s no wonder their chardonnay is so good. But their single vineyard, single varietal cabernets will blow your mind as well.

Palmaz Vineyards (Napa)

If you’re looking for a winery that will blow your mind (with its wines, its views, and its technology), Palmaz is it. Their tagline is ‘the fusion of tradition and technology’ and that’s exactly what tasting there is about. It is a GORGEOUS winery is tucked away all by itself in Napa and is owned by an Argentinean family, who have a love for food, and, of course, meat!! Their legendary Argentinean cookout parties are what club members rave about, and when you join their wine club you even get a beautiful traditional steak knife. Visit in the Summer and you’ll get to taste their small production rose, which I think is one of the best roses in the Valley. 

I recommend Palmaz to anyone looking for a really unique tasting, with AMAZING wines. 

Cornell Vineyards (Sonoma  / WAY up in the mountains)

Another exclusive, blow-your-mind tasting I love is Cornell Vineyards .  (Not to be confused with Cornell Winery). You’ll wind your way up Spring Mountain to this absolutely stunning property, with no other winery in sight. It feels straight out of a movie of Napa / Sonoma in the 70’s. Tractors ride around the property checking the grapes as you get poured a glass of Dom Perignon to kick off the tasting by one of the members of Cornell’s intimate team of 4 people. The views are UNREAL and you’ll taste their DELICIOUS cabernet sauvignons, and feel like you’re at someone’s home.

Cornell is a small production cult-following wine, that collectors rave about and celebrities flock to. Highly recommend checking it out. 

Kelly Fleming Winery (Calistoga)

This absolutely stunning property is a small production, cult-following wine that you will want to take CASES home of. The caves are absolutely breathtaking and Kelly’s eye for design is felt throughout the stunning property. They only take 8 visitors a day so it’s a super exclusive tasting – Loved this spot. 

Highly recommend their ‘big pour’ cabernet sauvignon. 

Nickel & Nickel – As members of this winery, we go to all of their parties and have had the opportunity to taste here and take the tour many, many times, but every time is better than the last!! I can’t imagine Napa without this little country winery, and I hope you’ll love it. The tour is $65/person, and requires reservations.

The best ultra-high-end wineries to taste in Napa Valley

Promontory (Napa) – One of the most expensive and exclusive tastings in the Valley, Promontory is worth every cent. This STUNNING property sits on just one tiny part of owner a Bill Harlan’s more that 900 untamed, rugged acres of land dubbed “Napa Valley Territory”. The family only began growing grapes here (on less than 10% of the land) in 2008, and immediately knew they had something special. Promontory wine makes less than 2000 cases of this Cabernet magic , most of which are only available at the winery itself, that just opened last summer for private tours only. 

If you’re looking for a Napa valley wine and tasting experience to truly blow you away, this is it.

Opus One Winery – This is one of the most globally recognized names in luxury wine. Tasting is pricey, at $45-$60 a glass, but it’s a bucket list winery! So gorgeous… and incredible wine. Make sure you head straight to the terrace once you get your glass! Some of the best views in Napa.

The best wineries that you love to drink at home to go check out while you’re in town

Caymus Vineyards (Napa) – Great wines! Some of my favorite in Napa. And a absolute picturesque outdoor tasting area. I love their pinot noir and their chardonnay.

Cakebread Wines (Napa)

I love Cakebread’s chardonnay and cabernets, so tasting here is always great. It’s a quick tasting, and located right off of Highway 29, making it an easy stop in a busy wine tasting day. Also LOVE their patio – so beautiful in the summertime.

Rombauer – My go-to chardonnay. I always come home with at least a few bottles from here, and they don’t make it a week in San Francisco before they’re gone. Great spot for a casual, pop in tasting. Starting at $20 for a flight.

Trinchero Napa Valley – This beautiful estate’s tasting room is a great stop in Napa. Tastings start at $30 and their cabs are fab.

Joseph Phelps Winery (Napa)  – You’ve probably heard of Joseph Phelps’ famed Insignia label – an insanely good cabernet sauvignon that is worth the trip to this winery alone. Add in a cozy lodge-like tasting room and a terrace like this? It’s a must do. 

Twomey – located in Healdsburg and also in Calistoga , this is one of my go-to’s for a casual drop-in tasting in the valley. Their pinot’s are so good (they’re under the Silver Oak label) and I always end up walking out with a few bottles.

Where to have a glass of wine with a view in Napa Valley

Auberge Du Soleil – If you don’t stay there during your stay, you can stop by to take in the sunset over a glass of wine on their elegant patio overlooking the valley. Can’t beat this view.

Where to stay in Napa Valley (at every price point)

Auberge du soleil.

Tucked into a 33-acre olive grove in Rutherford, this luxurious Napa Valley resort has one of the most beautiful outdoor pools (complete with cabanas!), a dreamy spa, and a five-star restaurant. Rooms are ultra-plush with a fireplace, and surreal balconies and patios with expansive views.

Italian linens, slippers and bathrobes are provided in all rooms or suites, where you’ll also find an over-sized soaking tub with a separate walk-in shower, a double vanity and free spa toiletries.

photo via Booking.com

Harvest Inn

For an upscale-meets-traditional stay in the heart of wine country, the Harvest Inn is a perfect choice with its great location in Saint Helena, massive guest rooms, rustic charm, and eight acres of vineyard views. Two outdoor heated pools and two whirlpools, and private spa treatment rooms, as well as the 78 rooms and suites are spacious with minibars stocked with free drinks and free Wi-Fi, plus huge bathrooms, many with separate showers and tubs.

Alila Napa Valley

This modern-chic resort is Napa Valley hotel goals. It’s in Saint Helena – one of my very favorite areas of the valley (and where many of the wineries I mentioned above are!) and each room has a dreamy terrace that looks out onto the vineyards and onto THIS view .

Photo courtesy Las Alcobas

Hotel Yountville

One of my favorite areas of Napa Valley to stay is Yountville, because the charming hotels here are within walking distance of such famed restaurants as Bouchon, The French Laundry, Bottega, RH Yountville and more. It’s a great town to walk around or bike around, and you’re right in the vineyards. This is an ideal hotel for so many different types of Napa trips – highly recommend!!! Guests can relax at The Spa, featuring 6 treatment rooms, or at the hotel’s outdoor pool and hot tub. And if you’re wishing to explore, complimentary bike rentals are offered onsite. 

Check rates for your dates here

This French Chateau-styled hotel has all of the things I love… Fireplaces in the room, a complimentary bottle of wine upon arrival, free champagne breakfast buffet…. and the delicious waffles I crave ALL the time! I think if you’re looking for the perfect Napa experience, Yountville is where you want to be. It’s an adorable small wine town with the best restaurants.

Silverado Resort & Spa

This resort, complete with tennis and its beautiful golf course, is a great option for staying overnight in Napa. Just off the Silverado trail (where many of the wineries I mentioned are), it’s the perfect location for your getaway. The rooms are a bit outdated but I love the big resort feel, it’s a great place for groups, too. 

Senza Napa  

If you’re looking for a nice, affordable hotel in Napa in the perfect location – this is it. If I’m going up for a weekend or a quick one-night Napa getaway, this is always where I stay. It’s right in the right location (only a 10 minute drive from Yountville, Saint Helena, and most of the wineries I love to taste at), and the rooms are simple, modern and wonderful, each with its own fireplace! The complimentary breakfast is also amazing.

I love staying up in Calistoga – the most Northern part of wine country because it’s secluded, quiet, and has some of the most beautiful hotels ( Auberge Solage is a favorite, as is the cozy chic Cottage Grove Inn !). It’s a beautiful, romantic area of Napa Valley. 

Where to Stay in Sonoma

Montage Healdsburg

Macarthur Place Inn

This recently renovated, centrally-located property is set on a historic six-acre estate with lush grounds, gardens, winding wine-filled pathways, a mid-century pool, and a full-service spa utilizing flowers and herbs from property gardens. Named one of the Top 10 Hotels in Northern California in Condé Nast Traveler’s 2021 Reader’s Choice Awards, the property is within walking distance of Sonoma Plaza, and minutes from some of wine country’s vineyards, wineries and restaurants. 

Kenwood Inn & Spa

An adorable boutique hotel I just LOVE in Sonoma is the Kenwood Inn & Spa . I mean how dreamy is waking up on this balcony? It’s super small, really luxe, has a great pool (win!) and is a perfect romantic getaway spot to stay.

Farmhouse Inn

Another one of my top picks for where to stay for luxury in Sonoma County is Farmhouse Inn – a tucked away, understated, inn in Forestville with all the right luxuries you need for a perfect wine country vacay. Think: a Michelin star restaurant (amazing!!!!), complimentary fire pits and s’mores, a dreamy jacuzzi and heated pool, and adorable wine country hotel room bungalows with the most comfortable beds you can imagine!

I also loved that Farmhouse In n is only a 10 minute drive from some of the most DELICIOUS wineries in Northern California – Flowers, Gary Farrell, Twomey, etc! You’re also only 20 minutes from Healdsburg , another of my favorite regions (which you can read all about my vacation in Healdsburg and what to do in Healdsburg here )

Where to stay with a big group:

Check out my post on Napa’s best Airbnb’s for Groups

The Best VRBO’s and Airbnbs for a couple

Private 1br romantic tuscan villa with a vineyard in napa.

This gorgeous romantic villa has its own vineyard – making it an ideal romantic getaway in Napa Valley – I have a friend that stayed here and got engaged in the vineyard – they LOVED it!! The pictures don’t do it justice!

Check rates here

How to get around wine country

Where to eat in napa valley, for breakfast / coffee / juices, southside yountville.

I go here almost every trip to Napa! Obsessed with their chilaquiles and avocado toast with smoked salmon. They also have great coffee (and oat milk lattes, my go-to). So if you’re in a rush to get to the wineries and just want a quick (but delish) breakfast and coffee spot, look no further.

The Station

Casual grab-and-go coffee and AMAZING food. If you’re in the St. Helena area, this is your spot! I love the crustless quiche (so good) and the breakfast burrito.

Napa Valley Juice

This St. Helena health food store has the BEST fresh juices for takeaway. So if you’re addicted to your first-thing-in-the-morning celery juice like me, this is your spot. Also right across the street from the Station so if you’re staying in St. Helena, these two make a perfect morning routine (and you can bike or walk there from your hotel!) 

For lunch or dinner

This spot in Yountville ranks right up there with my favorite dinner spots anywhere. Celebrity chef Michael Chiarello brings his top notch chef skills to this amaaaazing contemporary californian-italian restaurant in an atmosphere so uniquely Napa. Check out their incredible wine list and think of me when you order a glass of Nickel & Nickel merlot. The Nickels are great friends with Bottega, and it’s actually where I had my very first glass of my now-favorite wine.

RH Yountville

RH Yountville – This chic new contemporary restaurant in Yountville is an instant favorite. Each table is adorned with an over-the-top chandelier, and the beautiful ambiance and decor is matched with the delicious menu. Order the crispy artichokes, the burrata, and definitely try their signature bellini! I also recommend going a little early for a drink at their bar – it is adorable! This is the perfect date spot in Napa.

Farmstead – This farm-to-table restaurant in Rutherford is an amazing spot, and my go-to every time I’m in Napa. Think all-american food with a contemporary California twist. I always start with the grilled artichoke appetizer or the meatballs, and I recently had their barbecued ribs with mac and cheese (amaaaaazing). You can’t go wrong with anything on their menu. And save room for dessert here because it is delicious! Another one of my favorite things about this place- their outdoor bar area with fire pits at night. Not to mention wine on tap. Because, Napa.

Charter Oak I loooove the food (and wine) at Charter Oak! Located in the heart of the Napa Valley by Chef Christopher Kostow of the Michelin three-starred The Restaurant at Meadowood. The Charter Oak is centered on a celebratory, family-style dining experience, with simple, approachable, and seasonal food – grilled meats, beautiful vegetables from our 3.5-acre farm, local wines, and unparalleled cocktails. Lou’s Luncheonette – This is a great brunch or lunch spot in Sonoma, but expect a wait. It is right by Domaine Carneros, so is a great spot to go eat before or after tasting there if you’re in this area. It’s also on the way from SF to Napa, making it the perfect pit-stop.  Mustard’s Grill – A greeaaat spot. This restaurant has been serving up American food to Napa locals and visitors alike for over 30 years. Many people’s favorite.

Brasswood – Another restaurant I love to drink cocktails, wine, and eat an amazing meal at. It’s located basically nextdoor to AXR – one of my favorite wineries. SUPER good food – and the perfect lunch spot in the Valley. Order the homemade mozzarella and thank me later.

The French Laundry – I have not yet had the opportunity to eat at this renowned Napa restaurant, often voted the very best restaurant in the WORLD. But, I have walked by their beautiful organic gardens and often dreamt about eating there one day. Their menu is a 9-course tasting menu complete with wine pairings, and, word on the street is each person has their own waiter. Talk about a dining experience unlike any other, more like you’re eating at someone’s home than in a restaurant.

Angele – delish French cuisine in a riverfront bistro perched up overlooking the Napa River. Great spot if you’re staying closer to downtown! Angele is an oasis where you’ll feel like you’re in Europe!

Bistro Don Giovanni – sit on the patio! Chef Scott Warner’s rustic fare incorporates local fruits, vegetables, meat and fowl into traditional, fresh Italian dishes with her signature, creative flair. Freshly baked breads, local olive oil, beautiful salads, tasty appetizers and homemade pastas are inspired by the bounty of Napa Valley. 

When is the best time to go to Napa Valley ?

Napa is one of those few magical places in the world that are beautiful no matter the season. It’s gorgeous in the Summer, almost more beautiful in the Fall with harvest going on, and even stunning in the Winter, on rainy cozy days  (and this is spoken from a Summer worshipper!!) In February, you get mustard season which is just BEAUTIFUL, and one of my favorite times of year to visit.

What’s the difference between Napa Valley and Sonoma?

These two regions of California wine country could not be more different – and they’re both amazing. If you’re trying to decide where to go in wine country and want to know all the differences between Napa and Sonoma , and which region is best for YOUR trip, check out my blog post here : Napa vs. Sonoma .

What is there to do besides wine taste in Napa Valley?

Biking around the valley is one of my favorite things to do in Napa – and definitely a hot air balloon ride!

Check out my full list of things to do in Napa if you don’t drink wine here

What to Wear in Napa + Sonoma:

Shop these dresses:

How great is this cork print Napa hawaiian shirt?

What should I pack for Napa Valley?

Check out this post on packing for Napa in every season

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What are jetset christina’s favorite napa valley wines and how do i order them.

The best wines you can have shipped or delivered

Should I go to any other areas around Napa?

YES, yes, and yes!!! Some of my favorites are Sonoma, Calistoga and Healdsburg . Every area of California wine country is so different, so it’s fun to explore a few.

Craving an amazing chilled glass of California chardonnay yet?

PS – have more questions on Napa or any other destination? Join the JETSETTERS secret facebook group to get & give travel recs to our Jetset Christina community and connect with other #JSCJetsetters!

Check out my other related posts:

Napa vs. Sonoma : Which region of California wine country is better?

The best outdoor wine tasting in Napa and Sonoma

The best wine glasses

Where to stay in Napa for a bachelorette party

The Best Travel Reward Credit Cards

The Ultimate Calistoga Travel Guide to Calistoga, California

What to Pack for Napa Valley

15+ Splurge-Worthy Wedding Shoes For the Bride

Belmond Cap Juluca vs. Malliouhana Auberge vs. Four Seasons Anguilla - Which Resort is Best?

WRITTEN BY: Christina

Christina is a leading luxury lifestyle and travel blogger with over 2 million readers. Follow her on instagram @jetsetchristina.

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Thank you so much for this blog as I am headed to Napa next month. You might want to review some of the restaurants like redd wood because when I google a couple of them they say moved or for redd wood closed. Everything was very helpful.

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Experience a Taste of the Good Life in Napa Valley

The best things in life are the experiences we share, savor, and discover. nowhere is that more apparent than in napa valley, where anyone – and everyone – can experience a taste of the good life., get inspired, #visitnapavalley, towns of napa valley.

Yes, there's more to Napa Valley than just Napa — we have 5 distinct towns and 4 regions for you to dine, shop, sip and stay

With hundreds of wineries and miles of the valley to explore, we want you to know there's no wrong way to enjoy Napa Valley  

How many wine tastings can we do in one day?

We recommend 2 or 3 winery visits , but not more than that as most experiences take a minimum of 90 minutes and there is travel time in between. You can also hire a driver or tour company to drive you to the wineries, and they can even plan your day of tastings.

What should I wear in Napa Valley?

Spring/summer = sun dress with a cardigan and sandals . Fall/Winter = denim, sweater, scarf and boots. Denim is acceptable year round, if it is a fancier scene wear dark denim. Always bring a light jacket for the nighttime breeze from the bay.

Where is Napa Valley?

Napa Valley wine country is located in Northern California, 50 miles northeast of San Francisco , which makes it a short drive from several airports in the San Francisco Bay Area. Napa Valley is one of the world's famous wine regions, with stunning landscapes and exceptional wines .

What is Napa Valley known for?

With more than 400 wineries open for tastings and 90 urban tasting rooms , Napa Valley is known for world-class wine , as well as beautiful countryside and near perfect weather year-round. It is also known for Michelin-star restaurants, and luxurious accommodations and spas .

Napa Valley is such a beautiful part of the world. Everyone is warm and friendly and as you drive to the wineries through the valley and up into the mountains, you know it's a special place.

St. Louis, Missouri

Napa Valley is heaven on earth... or at least in the same zip code for sure!

San Francisco, California

Can't Miss Events

View All Events  

Street Food Napa Valley – Chinese Menu

The we11ness experience: physical we11ness, cambium vertical winemaker dinner, pickleball weekend, st. helena sidewalk sale, 7th anniversary party, miller house dinner with chef elliot bell, spring fling party, spring wine release party, plan your trip to napa valley.

Let’s raise a glass, because our legendary Napa Valley wine country has only grown better with time. Offering world-class wine, winemakers, and wineries, Napa Valley is ready to...

Tasting Rooms & Wine Bars

Otherwise known as urban wineries, downtown tasting rooms offer similar wine-sampling experience as a winery, just without the production facilities or vineyards onsite

Where To Stay

From intimate boutique inns to full-service luxury resorts, and everything in between, Napa Valley properties welcome you with world-class hospitality.

Restaurants

Napa Valley restaurants invite you to delight in a taste of the good life. With farm-fresh cuisine ranging from casual food trucks to Michelin-Star fare, you’ll find unforgettable...

Wine Tours & Transportation

Sit back and let the professionals take care of the planning and the driving. Your options range from private tours in a town car, limo or party bus with your friends, to riding...

Things To Do

Napa Valley is better than ever, and we’re excited to invite you to explore all that our legendary valley has to offer. Discover hot air balloons, outdoors, shopping, art walks,...

BOOK YOUR STAY

Boutique inns.

Nestled among rolling hills, charming neighborhoods, and storied vineyards are the most charming boutique inns

From impeccable design to lavish landscapes, Napa Valley hotels have the creature comforts and amenities for you and your loved ones

A wonderland for grown-ups, Napa Valley resorts cater to outdoor and fitness enthusiasts, bon vivants and those seeking serenity

Need more travel planning tips or recommendations for your Napa Valley trip?

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This California Destination Is One of the Best Wine Regions in the World — Here's How to Plan a Trip

Visit Napa Valley for an unforgettable adventure. Discover the best hotels, restaurants, and things to do with this highly curated Napa Valley travel guide.

Best Time to Go

Things to know, how to get around, best hotels, best restaurants, things to do, best shopping, neighborhoods to know, apps to download.

Adrian Rudd/Travel + Leisure

Napa is best known as a booming wine region, serving up some of the top vintages outside of France (and arguably, some of the best wines in the world). The rolling hills and sunny skies make the region a picturesque spot for a quick getaway. And while wine is the main draw, there's plenty to the region worth exploring—all just a two-hour drive north of San Francisco.

Throughout the valley there are a number of towns filled with quaint shops, Michelin-starred restaurants, luxurious hotels, and unique spa experiences. And with over 400 wineries in the region, Napa Valley is definitely a destination worth revisiting again and again. So whether you're looking for a romantic retreat, a getaway with friends, or a trip for the family, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Here, we've put together the best of what Napa Valley has to offer. Cheers!

Pacific Daylight Time

The tourist season in Napa corresponds with the annual grape harvest from August to October, but that also means that prices are at their highest and travelers should expect wait times and the need for reservations when out exploring. Late spring is a great alternative because the weather is just as nice and crowds are more manageable. And in late May, the area hosts the annual three-day-long BottleRock festival with dozens of acts from some of the world's top musicians, drawing in crowds of over 100,000.

In the summer, temperatures can get a bit hot during the day, but there are plenty of wineries to explore where you can dip into air conditioned tasting rooms or take a seat on a covered patio. The area also hosts its annual Napa Wine Fest each July, and showcases some of the region's top vintners and wineries, plus others from surrounding wine regions like Sonoma and Lake Mendocino.

The area really gets into the holiday spirit during the late fall and early winter months, and it just so happens to coincide with cabernet season (which runs from November through April). Crowds are at their lowest, but so are rates. And while the temperatures are a bit frosty, that's nothing that a glass of wine or two can't fix.

Due to the region's geographic spread, it's best advised to explore the region by car (just make sure to have a designated driver while visiting wineries). While there's public transportation available, it's easiest to go at your own pace instead of navigating bus routes or paying out for a taxi.

And while temperatures can peak in the 90s during the summer months, the nights can get surprisingly cold, dropping as much as 40 degrees in a single day. So it's best to pack a variety of outfits to make sure you're comfortable at all times.

Trains: Amtrak San Joaquins takes travelers from the Bay Area straight to the heart of downtown Napa. The ride takes anywhere from two to three hours, depending on whether you're leaving from Emeryville or Salesforce Plaza.

Buses: Napa Valley's public bus system is called The Vine and runs from El Cerrito Del Norte all the way up to Calistoga.

Taxis: There are a handful of taxi services in Napa that can easily be arranged for quick pickup and drop offs wherever you need to be. Vern's Taxi Service and Yellow Cab Napa are the highest rated, but both Uber and Lyft also operate in the area. Car service: Napa Valley has plenty of private car and limousine options, perfect for those who don't want to worry about getting around if they're out wine tasting. Napa Valley Limousine Services and Napa Sonoma Wine Tasting Driver are the two highest rated. For those looking for a ride to various attractions and tastings with a guide who can help plan their itinerary and share some Napa history along the way, consider booking with Bohemian Highway .

Auberge du Soleil

Address: 180 Rutherford Hill Rd, Rutherford, CA 94573 Phone: (707) 963-1211 Website

For those looking for expansive views paired with a luxurious stay, Auberge du Soleil is just what you're after. The property has 27 rooms, 19 one-bedroom suites, and two private maisons, plus an outdoor pool, and a relaxing spa. Guests can also opt for in-room massage treatments if they'd prefer to revel in the comfort of their private maison.

Address: 900 Meadowood Lane St. Helena, CA 94574 Phone: (877) 963-3646 Website

After being heavily impacted by the 2020 fires, Meadowood has opened its doors once again to welcome guests to the 250-acre property. The 36-room estate features a spa, five tennis courts, and three pool areas.

Hotel Villagio at The Estate Yountville

Address: 6481 Washington St, Yountville, CA 94599 Phone: (707) 927-2130 Website

Situated on 22 acres in the heart of Yountville, the estate offers everything you need for a relaxing getaway. At the center, you'll find Hotel Villagio with 112 guestrooms and 22 suites, sporting gas fireplaces and private terraces that make for a romantic and relaxing escape.

Address: 492 Randolph St, Napa, CA 94559 Phone: (707) 596-5168 Website

Housed in a turn-of-the-century manor that's been thoughtfully restored and updated, The George is centered in the heart of downtown Napa. The grand Victorian home offers nine totally original guest rooms that blend modern amenities with the building's old-world charm.

Archer Hotel Napa

Address: 1230 1st St, Napa, CA 94559 Phone: (707) 690-9800 Website

The Archer Hotel is situated in the heart of downtown Napa surrounded by the restaurants, shops, and tasting rooms. The boutique hotel's First Street location puts it right in the center of the action. For unbeatable views, head to the hotel's Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar, which happens to be the only open-air bar in town.

Bardessono Hotel & Spa

Address: 6526 Yount St, Yountville, CA 94599 Phone: (707) 204-6000 Website

The Bardessono Hotel & Spa was specifically designed with relaxation in mind. The 62 guest rooms and suites, as well as three private luxury villas, all act as a personal spa with in-room massage tables, steam showers, and soaking tubs. But for those looking to spend at least a few hours outside of their room, the hotel is also home to the area's only rooftop pool with stunning views to boot.

Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection

Address: 755 Silverado Trail N, Calistoga, CA 94515 Phone: (707) 266-7534 Website

Situated on the outskirts of Calistoga, Solage capitalizes on the beauty of its natural surroundings with ample outdoor space. The hotel just completed a transformation of the pool area with a new restaurant and private cabanas that can be rented out for the day. Inside, you'll find a 20,000-square-foot spa and 89 guestrooms and suites, each with contemporary furnishings and open floor plans.

Four Seasons Resort and Residences Napa Valley

Address: 400 Silverado Trail N, Calistoga, CA 94515 Phone: (707) 709-2100 Website

The Four Seasons Resort in Napa Valley is the newest kid on the block, officially opening their doors in November 2021 after much anticipation. The 85-room property boasts unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains and includes 20 residences on-site (all fitted out with luxe details like five-piece bathrooms, 90+ bottle wine storage, and outdoor terraces) for those who want a bit more than a temporary stay. And because you're in Napa Valley, the resort has its own winery — with its vineyard surrounding the entire property.

French Laundry

Address: 6640 Washington St, Yountville, CA 94599 Phone: (707) 944-2380 Website

Thomas Keller's three-Michelin-star restaurant is considered one of the top in America for its innovative take on classic French dishes. The late Anthony Bourdain dubbed it "the best restaurant in the world, period." Seatings start at $350 per person for the nine-course dinner and there are two set menus that change daily, The Chef's Tasting of meat and seafood and The Tasting of Vegetables. Due to its cult status in the culinary world, reservations are necessary.

Address: 587 St Helena Hwy, St Helena, CA 94574 Phone: (707) 967-0550 Website

Chef Philip Tessier uses local ingredients and innovative culinary techniques to highlight regional cuisine in a way no other restaurant in the area does. But their commitment to the area doesn't stop there as they house the largest collection of Napa Valley wine anywhere in the world with more than 1,700 bottles. Reservations encouraged.

Address: 7377 St Helena Hwy, Napa, CA 94558 Phone: (707) 944-2749 Website: brix.com

For over 25 years, Brix has been a local staple serving up imaginative dishes that highlight regional ingredients. The farm-to-table restaurant sits on 16 acres with stunning views in all directions, and has an expansive outdoor seating area to soak it all in. Owned by the Kelleher family, of the namesake winery, the restaurant offers an expansive list of local wines to pair with your meal. Reservations recommended.

Address: 1300 1st St #312, Napa, CA 94559 Phone: (707) 492-8150 Website

Situated on First Street in the center of downtown Napa, Compline dishes up savory bites in a relaxed, casual atmosphere that's perfect for people watching. Executive chef Jammir Gray's imaginative dishes are both elevated and crave-worthy — think: smoked trout rillettes with fattoria bread and squid ink capellini. What makes this spot extra unique is its expansive wine store, which offers premium bottles from all over the world. It's a great place to grab lunch or dinner, as well as a quick souvenir (just make sure to leave extra room in your checked bag). Reservations recommended.

Mustards Grill

Address: 7399 St Helena Hwy, Napa, CA 94558 Phone: (707) 944-2424 Website

This casual eatery, just a few minutes-drive north of Yountville, offers an expansive menu that's bound to have something for even the pickiest of eaters. The restaurant uses fresh produce from their on-site, two-acre organic garden to complement their savory dishes — the baby back ribs are a must. Be sure to grab an outdoor table if possible, next to their garden, and soak in the sights of the rolling vineyards in the distance.

The Charter Oak

Address: 1050 Charter Oak Ave, St Helena, CA 94574 Phone: (707) 302-6996 Website

Owned by chef Christopher Kastow of the famed, three-Michelin-star The Restaurant at Meadowood, The Charter Oak offers a family-style dining experience that highlights regional wines and seasonal ingredients, with produce sourced from their own 3.5-acre farm. The dishes are simple but are packed with flavor and the cocktails are unbeatable. Reservations recommended.

Address: 6476 Washington St, Yountville, CA 94599 Phone: (707) 944-2487 Website

Chef Thomas Keller opened Ad Hoc in 2006 as an homage to his favorite childhood dishes. The eatery offers casual American fare with an upscale touch. The four-course menu changes daily and dishes are served family-style as a way to encourage customer interaction. Reservations recommended.

California Brandy House

Address: 1300 1st St Suite 309, Napa, CA 94559 Phone: (707) 732-1200 Website

If you're looking to mix up your tasting experience, then California Brandy House is worth the visit. The property opened in 2020 in the heart of downtown Napa and offers a host of premium brandys, all of which can be sampled on-site. You can also get your bottles personally engraved as a thoughtful souvenir.

Napa Valley Balloons

Address: 4086 Byway E, Napa, CA 94558 Phone: (707) 944-0228 Website

If you're looking for a different perspective on Napa, why not take it all in from above? Napa Valley Balloons takes visitors on a once-in-a-lifetime trip high above the picturesque rolling hills and vineyards, offering stunning views as far as the Bay Area. And better yet, you take off at sunrise for your hour-long trip, so you still have the rest of your day for tastings.

Napa Valley Wine Train

Address: 1275 McKinstry St, Napa, CA 94559 Phone: (707) 253-2111 Website

Step back in time with a luxurious homage to train travel on the Napa Valley Wine Train. The restored 20th-century train takes oenophiles on a 36-mile round-trip tour of the region, all the way to St. Helena and back. Guests will enjoy a five-star meal, accompanied by the region's finest wines, of course.

Napa Valley Bike Tours

Address: 6500 Washington St, Yountville, CA 94599 Phone: (707) 251-8687 Website

Yountville is perfectly situated at the center of dozens of wineries that branch out from the town's center along quiet country roads. So what better way to explore the area than by bike? You can easily hop from one winery to the next, or leisurely explore surrounding trails to take in the unbeatable views.

Wine Tasting

There are over 400 wineries in Napa Valley alone so narrowing down the list can be a bit daunting. But we've picked a few of our favorites to get your list started. Mayacamas Vineyard is tucked away in the Mayacamas mountains and offers stunning views of the valley and all the way up to the Bay Area. With plenty of outdoor seating and great wine and cheese pairings, Ashes & Diamonds Winery is a good option for a laid back hang. For a more boutique winery experience, compared to all of the mega wineries in town, head to B Cellar Winery . The team specifically crafted their menu to perfectly complement each of their vintages. And better yet, you can enjoy your tasting on their covered outdoor patio taking in the sights of the surrounding vineyards.

Oxbow Public Market

Address: 610 1st St, Napa, CA 94559 Phone: (707) 226-6529 Website

Set on First Street in downtown Napa, the Oxbow Public Market is a 40,000-square-foot marketplace with food vendors, cafes, and produce from local farmers. After a long afternoon of exploring, be sure to grab a cup of coffee from one of the cafes and relax on the outdoor patio overlooking the Napa River.

Spice Islands Marketplace

Address: 2555 Main Street, St. Helena CA 94574 Phone: 845-452-9600 Website

The Spice Islands Marketplace is a haven for any culinary fanatic. With over 1,700 cookbook titles, cookware, bakeware, and kitchen tools available, you should be sure to leave plenty of extra room in your bag (or just bring an empty suitcase to fill up). Next door, you'll find the Ghirardelli Chocolate Discovery Center, where you'll learn the ins and outs of chocolate making.

Anette's Chocolates

Address: 1321 1st St, Napa, CA 94559 Phone: (707) 252-4228 Website

Since 1991, Anette's Chocolates has been serving up truffles, brittles, caramels, and mouth-watering chocolates from their First Street location in the center of Napa — you can find their second location while strolling through Oxbow Market. After shopping your way through downtown, be sure to stop by for a scoop or two of their hand-crafted ice cream (only served at their First Street location).

First Street Napa

Address: 1300 First Street, Napa, CA 94559 Phone: (707) 257-6900 Website

This collective of restaurants, shops, and tasting rooms is centered right in the heart of downtown Napa making for a perfect location to spend an afternoon. Located just across from the Archer Hotel, First Street is where you'll find over 40 businesses, all within walking distance of one another.

Copperfield's Books

Address: 1300 1st St Suite 398, Napa, CA 94559 Phone: (707) 252-8002 Website

Copperfield's Books is a local institution, having served the community for over 40 years. The bookstore has thousands of books on offer and regularly hosts authors for readings and conversations.

Address: 1240 1st St, Napa, CA 94559 Phone: (707) 927-3303 Website

Foodies lovers will feel right at home at Napastäk, a culinary boutique in the center of downtown Napa. Owners Arthur and Lusine Hartunian, who also own Napa Valley Distillery, have crafted a unique shopping destination for foodies — selling everything from jams and jellies to olive oils, mustards, and wines.

While there are several towns scattered around the Napa Valley, a few stand out with great dining, hotels, and things to do. Here are the top cities and towns to check out.

Napa : Downtown Napa is where you'll find much of the action and is the first stop for those coming up from the Bay Area. First Street is at the heart of it all with a host of stellar restaurants, tasting rooms, and boutiques. Surrounding the commercial area you'll find tree-lined streets filled with quaint Victorian homes that have been remarkably preserved.

Yountville : Mostly notably the home to Thomas Keller's famed French Laundry, which holds three Michelin stars, Yountville is filled with a host of great restaurants, shops, and galleries. The town abounds with opportunities to get out into nature, whether that's hiking trails, biking to and from wineries, or taking a hot air balloon ride over the valley.

St. Helena : St. Helena is a charming town filled with shops and restaurants that line its Main Street. Home to The Culinary Institute of America at Greystone, visitors can partake in cooking demonstrations and tours, or sample some wines from the on-site Christian Brothers Winery.

Calistoga : Calistoga is the final stop for those making their way through Napa Valley, and it's the perfect spot to fully unwind before heading back to reality. The area's mineral-rich waters have led to the town becoming a wellness destination with a number of spas that feature natural spring pools. Once fully relaxed, visitors can peruse the shops, restaurants, and tasting rooms that line Lincoln Avenue.

Due to the fact that Napa Valley is within, well, a valley, the weather fluctuates pretty drastically from sunup to sundown, so it's best to pack a mix of cold-weather and warm-weather outfits. The area averages 27 inches of rainfall per year, mostly during the winter months from December through March. Fire season, which runs from June through November, has hit the region particularly hard in the past few years with record-setting fires in 2017 and 2020. The combination of high temperatures with low rainfall makes the region susceptible to fires.

The average temperature in Fahrenheit is listed below for each month of the year.

January 35 - 55 February 37 - 60 March 40 - 64 April 42 - 70 May 48 - 78 June 53 - 87 July 56 - 93 August 55 - 92 September 53 - 88 October 47 - 77 November 40 - 64 December 35 - 56

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Napa Valley Guides

Want a quick wine tasting itinerary for this weekend? Curious where the local hotspots are? Need to know the top hotels to stay in? Get inspired with these guides to start your journey!

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Guides Napa Valley Port Tasting: A Weekend Guide

When you have a hankering for some sweet wine, we recommend spending a full day (or two) wandering through the valley, tasting some favorites along the way.

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