Napa Valley is famous as a thriving wine region, producing some of the finest vintages outside of France—and some might argue, the best in the world. Its rolling hills and sunny skies make it a picture-perfect escape. While wine is the main attraction, there’s so much more to explore, all just a two-hour drive north of San Francisco.
The valley is dotted with charming towns full of boutique shops, Michelin-starred restaurants, luxury hotels, and one-of-a-kind spa experiences. With over 400 wineries, Napa Valley is a place you’ll want to visit again and again. Whether you’re planning a romantic retreat, a friends’ getaway, or a family trip, there’s something here for everyone.
Below, we’ve rounded up the best of what Napa Valley has to offer. Cheers!
Time Zone
Pacific Daylight Time
Best Time to Go
The peak tourist season lines up with the annual grape harvest from August to October, but that also means higher prices, bigger crowds, and the need for reservations. Late spring is a fantastic alternative—the weather is just as lovely, and the crowds thin out. Plus, you might snag better rates at some of Napa’s top hotels. In late May, the area hosts BottleRock, a three-day music festival featuring world-class artists, drawing over 100,000 visitors.
Summers can get hot, but wineries offer air-conditioned tasting rooms and shaded patios for relief. Each July, the Napa Wine Fest showcases top local vintners, along with wineries from nearby regions like Sonoma and Lake Mendocino.
Late fall and early winter bring holiday cheer—and cabernet season (November through April). Crowds are light, prices drop, and while nights get chilly, a glass or two of wine warms things up nicely.
Things to Know
With the region spread out, having a car is the best way to explore (just designate a driver for winery visits). Public transportation exists, but it’s easier to set your own pace rather than relying on buses or taxis.
Summer days can hit the 90s, but temperatures sometimes drop 40 degrees at night. Pack layers to stay comfortable.
How to Get Around
Trains: Amtrak’s San Joaquins runs from the Bay Area straight to downtown Napa, taking 2–3 hours depending on your starting point (Emeryville or Salesforce Plaza).
Buses: The Vine, Napa’s public bus system, runs from El Cerrito Del Norte up to Calistoga.
Taxis & Rideshares: Vern’s Taxi Service and Yellow Cab Napa are top-rated, but Uber and Lyft also operate here.
Car Services: For hassle-free wine tasting, consider Napa Valley Limousine Services or Napa Sonoma Wine Tasting Driver. If you want a guided tour with itinerary planning, Bohemian Highway is a great choice.
Best Hotels
Auberge du Soleil
For luxury stays with breathtaking views, Auberge du Soleil delivers. The property has 27 rooms, 19 one-bedroom suites, and two private maisons, plus a pool and spa. In-room massages are available for those who prefer to unwind in private.
Meadowood
After recovering from the 2020 fires, Meadowood reopened its 250-acre estate with 36 rooms, a spa, tennis courts, and three pool areas.
Hotel Villagio at The Estate Yountville
Set on 22 acres in Yountville, this hotel offers 112 guestrooms and 22 suites with gas fireplaces and private terraces—perfect for a romantic escape.
The George
Housed in a beautifully restored Victorian manor, The George blends historic charm with modern comforts. Its nine unique guest rooms sit in the heart of downtown Napa.
Archer Hotel Napa
This boutique hotel is steps from downtown’s restaurants, shops, and tasting rooms. Don’t miss Sky & Vine Rooftop Bar, the only open-air bar in town.
Bardessono Hotel & Spa
Designed for relaxation, all 62 rooms and villas feature in-room spa amenities. The rooftop pool offers stunning valley views.
Solage, Auberge Resorts Collection
Surrounded by nature, Solage boasts a revamped pool area, private cabanas, and a 20,000-square-foot spa. The 89 rooms have sleek, open layouts.
Four Seasons Resort Napa Valley
The newest luxury stay, opened in 2021, features 85 rooms and 20 residences with high-end touches. The resort even has its own winery, with vineyards wrapping the property.
Best Restaurants
French Laundry
Thomas Keller’s three-Michelin-star spot is legendary. Anthony Bourdain called it “the best restaurant in the world.” The nine-course tasting menu starts at $350, and reservations are a must.
PRESS
Chef Philip Tessier highlights local flavors with creative techniques. Their wine list boasts 1,700+ Napa Valley bottles—the largest collection anywhere.
Brix
A farm-to-table favorite for 25+ years, Brix sits on 16 acres with vineyard views. Their wine list features local Kelleher Family vintages.
Compline
A relaxed downtown spot with creative dishes like squid ink capellini. Their attached wine shop is perfect for souvenirs.
Mustards Grill
A casual gem with an on-site organic garden. Don’t miss the baby back ribs, and try to snag an outdoor table.
The Charter Oak
From the chef behind The Restaurant at Meadowood, this spot serves family-style dishes with ingredients from their 3.5-acre farm.
Ad Hoc
Thomas Keller’s ode to comfort food, with a daily-changing four-course menu served family-style.
Things to Do
California Brandy House
A unique tasting experience with premium brandies—even personalized bottle engravings.
Napa Valley Balloons
See Napa from above on a sunrise hot air balloon ride.
Napa Valley Wine Train
A vintage train journey with gourmet dining and wine pairings.
Napa Valley Bike Tours
Pedal through scenic backroads and stop at wineries along the way.
Wine Tasting
With 400+ wineries, here are a few standouts:
- Mayacamas Vineyard – Mountain views stretching to the Bay.
- Ashes & Diamonds – Laid-back vibes with great pairings.
- B Cellar Winery – Boutique tastings on a covered patio.
Best Shopping
Oxbow Public Market
A food lover’s paradise with local vendors, cafes, and riverfront seating.
Spice Islands Marketplace
A culinary wonderland with cookbooks, kitchenware, and a Ghirardelli chocolate center next door.
Anette’s Chocolates
Handcrafted chocolates, truffles, and ice cream (only at this location).
First Street Napa
A hub of 40+ shops, restaurants, and tasting rooms in downtown Napa.
Copperfield’s Books
A beloved local bookstore with author events and thousands of titles.
Napastäk
A foodie’s dream, selling gourmet jams, olive oils, and wines.
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