Napa Valley is the perfect spot for a girls’ trip or bachelorette to relax while indulging in delicious wines and soaking in picturesque views. Here’s my recommended guide to help you plan your trip.

Airport
If you’re flying in, the nearest airport is Sacramento International Airport (SMF) or San Francisco International Airport (SFO). Both are around a 1.5–2-hour drive to Napa Valley. A rental car is a must to explore the area.

Transportation
While Napa Valley is car-friendly, my recommendation is to either book a private car service or a driver for wine tastings to ensure a worry-free day. Although rideshares like Uber and Lyft are available, they can be limited in some areas.

A private car service will be the most expensive option. If you are looking for a more affordable option, I would recommend Napa Drivers where you are able to hire an insured driver to drive your rental car. Myself and friends have used their services and have always had a good experience. 

Lodging
We stayed at the River Terrace Inn, a serene riverside boutique hotel in downtown Napa. Its central location made it convenient for exploring local wineries and restaurants. The chic rooms, welcoming ambiance, and on-site restaurant added to the charm.

Hotel amenities include a splash of wine at check-in, complimentary parking, bike rentals, and a restaurant at the hotel perfect for morning breakfast or an evening night cap. 

Wine Tasting 

Reservations are a must in Napa wineries as a majority of wineries no longer accept walk-ins. 

The timing of how long you will be in each winery will depend on the type of experience you book at each winery. However, generally, you can expect to be there for about one to two hours. 

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3-Night Itinerary

Day 1

After checking into your hotel, formally kick off the trip in downtown Napa by grabbing drinks at either Chateau Buena Vista or Be Bubbly Napa. 

If time permits, walk around the neighborhood before dinner. The area offers an abundant amount of boutiques perfect to purchase some souvenirs. 

Enjoy dinner at C CASA Restaurant & Bar, located in Oxbow Public Market, for an elevated take on tacos and small plates.

Day 2

Start your morning with breakfast at Loveski Deli in Oxbow Public Market for a casual, delicious start to the day.

Enjoy a full day of wine tasting: 

1. Silver Oak Cellar: Famed for exceptional Cabernet Sauvignon, offering a sophisticated tasting experience in its stunning winery, where guests can enjoy elegant spaces and a curated selection of wines highlighting their rich heritage.
2. Frog’s Leap Winery: Celebrates organically farmed wines, including Sauvignon Blanc, Chardonnay, and Cabernet Sauvignon, offering a relaxed garden bar tasting experience surrounded by lush vineyards and charming farmstead vibes.
3. Farmstead at Long Meadow Ranch: Stop for lunch at this Farm-to-table New American fare in a renovated barn owned by a cattle ranch & winery
4. Tree Sabores: Produces organically farmed Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Petite Sirah served in their intimate tasting experiences, set amidst ancient olive groves and vibrant gardens

End the day with dinner at The Charter Oak offering a farm-to-table dining experience with a menu centered around seasonal, locally sourced ingredients, served in a rustic yet elegant setting that celebrates the essence of California cuisine

Day 3

Begin the day at Model Bakery, also in Oxbow Public Market, for coffee and their famous English muffins.

Enjoy another full day of wine tastings: 

1. Tamber Bey Vineyards: Offers a unique tasting experience featuring their Burgundy and Bordeaux-style wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir. Enjoy their wines in a serene courtyard setting, surrounded by the ranch’s resident horses, providing ample opportunities for photography and interaction. Additionally, the winery offers a picnic lunch experience, where visitors can savor a meal from Sam’s General Store paired with Tamber Bey wines, all while taking in the tranquil ranch atmosphere.
2. Castello di Amorosa: Offers an unforgettable tasting experience inside its medieval-style castle. Known for their Italian-inspired wines, including Cabernet Sauvignon, Sangiovese, and Chardonnay, the winery combines immersive history with stunning architecture, making it a must-see destination for first-time visitors. (Warning, this is one of Napa’s most touristy yet iconic wineries, so expect large crowds when you arrive.)
3. Ashes & Diamonds: Stands out in Napa Valley for its mid-century modern design and commitment to producing wines reminiscent of the region’s 1960s and ’70s era. Their portfolio includes Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Sauvignon Blanc, crafted with a minimal-intervention approach to highlight the unique terroir. 

Wrap up your day with dinner at Bouchon Bistro, a renowned French eatery by Chef Thomas Keller. The restaurant offers a classic bistro experience with dishes like steak frites, escargots, and expertly crafted pastries.

Day 4

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel’s restaurant or grab a quick bite before checking out.

If you departure time is later in the day, spend the day exploring the downtown areas to do some last minute tastings and shopping. Areas to explore include Napa, Yountville, and St. Helena.