Dreaming of your next trip to Napa Valley? You’re in luck! With its rolling vineyards, world-class wineries, and charming small towns, Napa Valley is one of the most iconic wine regions in the world. But to truly make the most of your visit, it helps to have some insider knowledge. This insider’s guide will share our best local tips and tricks for an unforgettable Napa Valley experience, from the best times to visit to hidden gems you might miss on a typical tourist route.
How to Plan Your Wine Tasting Itinerary
With over 400 wineries in Napa Valley, choosing which ones to visit can be overwhelming. For first-time visitors, we recommend a mix of well-known and off-the-beaten-path experiences.
When planning a wine tasting itinerary, it’s essential to strike a balance. Overbooking yourself can lead to a rushed experience, and wine tasting should be leisurely. Here’s how to make the most of your day.
- Make Reservations: The vast majority of Napa Valley wineries require reservations for wine tasting.
- Book in advance: Booking at least a month in advance is ideal, especially during the busier summer and fall seasons.
- Limit yourself to 2–3 wineries per day: This will give you enough time to enjoy each visit without feeling overwhelmed. Tastings typically last 60–90 minutes, so this is a realistic number to aim for after factoring in driving time between wineries and lunch.
- Hire a driver or join a wine tour: To fully enjoy your tastings without worrying about driving, consider hiring a driver. This is not only safer but also allows you to focus entirely on the experience.
- Drink plenty of water and eat between tastings: Hydration and snacks are key to staying refreshed throughout the day so you can fully enjoy each winery experience. Many wineries offer small bites, but it’s smart to carry your own as well.
Local Tip: Many wineries offer online reservations through platforms like Tock and CellarPass. We recommend using these platforms when you plan your wine tasting itinerary. You’ll be able to filter by preferred date, time, and group size, making the planning process much more seamless than contacting each winery individually.
Napa Valley Transportation Tips
Navigating Napa Valley is relatively straightforward, but understanding the best transportation options ahead of time will help to ensure a smooth trip.
- Rent a car: Renting a car is the most flexible option and allows you to explore the valley at your own pace. However, if you plan to do a lot of wine tasting, make sure to have a designated driver.
- Private drivers and tours: Hiring a private driver or joining a wine tour is a great option if you want to taste freely without worrying about transportation. Many companies offer customizable itineraries.
- Bike Rentals: If you’re looking for an eco-friendly way to explore, renting a bike is a fun and scenic option. Guided bike tours are offered by some companies, such as Napa Valley Bike Tours & Rentals.
Local Tip: Many visitors don’t realize that driving from one end of Napa Valley to the other can take up to an hour. We recommend grouping each day’s winery visits and activities in the same general area to minimize driving time between locations.
Where to Stay in Napa Valley
Napa Valley offers a wide variety of accommodations, from luxury resorts to charming bed-and-breakfasts. The right place to stay depends on your personal preferences and travel style.
Local Tip: For those planning a last-minute weekend getaway, many hotels offer one-night stays, even on weekends. We recommend searching online, as these reservations are often released within a week or two of the reservation date, when availability allows. If you don’t see your preferred date online, we recommend calling the hotel to inquire about availability.
- Downtown Napa: Downtown Napa offers a range of lodging options within walking distance to restaurants, tasting rooms, cocktail bars, and shops.
- Yountville: This small town is home to a number of hotels, including Bardessono and Hotel Yountville. Plus, it’s home to acclaimed restaurants, like Bouchon Bistro and Michelin-starred The French Laundry.
- St. Helena: If you prefer a more boutique experience, St. Helena offers charming inns and boutique hotels like Alila and Meadowood Napa Valley. It’s also home to a charming downtown with shops and restaurants.
- Calistoga: Looking for something off the beaten path? Calistoga is known for its hot springs and wellness retreats, making it a great place to relax and unwind after a day of wine tasting.
Local Tip: Keep an eye out for seasonal specials and packages advertised on the property’s website. For example, Silverado Resort offers seasonal packages, including golf packages, on their website.
What to Wear in Napa Valley
Napa Valley’s dress code is generally casual but stylish, often referred to as “wine country casual.” Think sundresses, skirts, or nice jeans along with wedges or strappy sandals, plus polos, button-down shirts, khakis, or slacks paired with casual dress shoes or nice sneakers. Most wineries don’t have formal dress codes, but it’s always a good idea to look presentable. Here are some tips for what to wear.
- Comfortable Shoes: You’ll likely be walking through vineyards or standing during tastings, so comfortable shoes are a must. Opt for flats or low-heeled shoes rather than anything too formal.
- Wear White at Your Own Risk: You’ll be tasting a lot of red wine in the land where “Cab is King,” and spills do happen.
- Skip the Scents: Leave your signature perfume or cologne at home, and try to avoid strongly-scented lotions. Strong smells can interfere with the appreciation of wine’s nuances, both for you and those around you!
- Sun Protection: With many outdoor activities, including wine tastings and hiking, sun protection is essential. A hat and sunscreen will help keep you comfortable.
Local Tip: Napa’s weather can vary greatly throughout the day, especially in the spring and fall. Bring layers to stay comfortable, as mornings can be cool and afternoons warm. We recommend a light jacket or sweater, even during the summer months. It can also be quite windy in some areas, so take caution when opting for flowy skirts or dresses!
Napa Valley Experiences Beyond Wine Tasting
While wine is the star of Napa Valley, there are plenty of other activities to enjoy during your visit.
- Hot Air Balloon Rides: Start your day early with a hot air balloon ride over Napa’s vineyards. It’s an unforgettable experience with breathtaking views across the entire valley.
- Napa Valley Wine Train: For a unique way to explore the valley, hop aboard the Napa Valley Wine Train. It’s a fully restored vintage train that offers scenic rides through wine country, complete with meals and wine pairings.
- Olive Oil Tastings: Napa is also known for producing high-quality olive oil. Several wineries, like Round Pond Estate, offer olive oil tastings that are just as delightful as their wine tastings.
Local Tip: Napa Valley is home to not one, but two locations of the Culinary Institute of America (CIA). The CIA offers a variety of hands-on cooking classes that provide a fun and accessible way to learn how to pair Napa’s local produce with its world-famous wines.
