4 day itinerary for Napa Valley, San Francisco

Itinerary

Napa Valley and San Francisco are such fantastic destinations, and I’m excited to help you plan an unforgettable 4-day itinerary. Let’s dive right in!

## Day 1: Arrival in Napa Valley & Wine Train Adventure

Morning:

• Arrive in Napa Valley and check into your hotel. There are some lovely options like the Napa River Inn or the Andaz Napa.
• Grab a hearty breakfast at a local café, like Model Bakery for their famous English muffins.

Afternoon:

• Hop on the Napa Valley Wine Train for a scenic ride through the vineyards. This is such a unique experience! You can choose a lunch option that includes a gourmet meal paired with local wines. Enjoy the stunning views as you chug along the tracks.

Evening:

• After your train ride, explore downtown Napa. Stroll along the riverfront and check out some local shops.
• For dinner, head to Oxbow Public Market for a casual yet delicious meal. You can find everything from tacos to gourmet pizza here!

## Day 2: Hot Air Balloon & Winery Visits

Early Morning:

• Rise and shine! Start your day with a breathtaking hot air balloon ride over Napa Valley. Companies like Napa Valley Balloons, Inc. offer early morning flights that provide stunning views of the vineyards and mountains. Don’t forget your camera!

Late Morning:

• After your balloon ride, enjoy a celebratory champagne breakfast provided by the balloon company or head to a nearby café.

Afternoon:

• Spend the afternoon visiting some of Napa’s renowned wineries. Consider Domaine Carneros for sparkling wines and beautiful views, and then head to Castello di Amorosa, a stunning castle winery that feels like a trip to Italy!

Evening:

• For dinner, treat yourself to a fine dining experience at The French Laundry (make sure to book well in advance) or opt for something more casual at Bistro Don Giovanni for delicious Italian fare.

## Day 3: Day Trip to San Francisco

Morning:

• After breakfast, drive or take a shuttle to San Francisco (about 1.5 hours). Start your day at the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. You can walk or bike across for some fantastic views!

Late Morning:

• Head to Fisherman’s Wharf and grab some clam chowder in a sourdough bread bowl from Boudin Bakery. Yum!

Afternoon:

• Explore Pier 39 and check out the sea lions. Then, take a stroll through Chinatown for some unique shops and maybe a little dim sum for lunch.
• If you’re up for it, visit Alcatraz Island (book tickets in advance) for a fascinating tour of the historic prison.

Evening:

• For dinner, head to the Mission District for some of the best Mexican food in the city. Try La Taqueria for their famous burritos!
• If you have energy left, consider catching a show or live music in the area.

## Day 4: Relax and Explore Napa Valley

Morning:

• Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your hotel or a local café. Then, take some time to relax and soak in the beautiful Napa Valley scenery.

Late Morning:

• Visit Napa Valley Museum in Yountville to learn about the region’s history and culture.

Afternoon:

• Spend your afternoon at a winery you may have missed or revisit a favorite. Stag’s Leap Wine Cellars is a great choice for its award-winning Cabernet Sauvignon.
• Alternatively, you could explore the Napa Valley Vine Trail for a scenic walk or bike ride.

Evening:

• For your final dinner, consider Bistro Don Giovanni or Redd in Yountville for a memorable meal. Enjoy a nice glass of wine and reflect on your amazing trip!

Tips:

• Make reservations for the wine train, hot air balloon ride, and any popular restaurants in advance.
• Consider a designated driver or a wine tour service if you plan to visit multiple wineries.

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fabulous time in Napa Valley and San Francisco! Enjoy every moment! 🍷🎈🌉