I am all about traveling without a plan, but when it comes to wine country, you are better off having reservations everywhere. Most vineyards/wineries won’t see you without a reservation, as most of them fill up weeks in advance! Same with the restaurants. Some do allow walk-ins. You just have to do your research before going!
As for transportation, you can order an Uber/Lyft very easily—this is what I always do. There are also a lot of car services that you can hire in advance (just a bit pricier, but makes sense if you are with a larger group). Some people like to rent bikes, but I personally do not recommend this, as some vineyards are further apart than you think (plus— it can be hard to bike after a buzz from the tastings!)
Last tip I want to share— I think that three vineyards per day is plenty! Some may even say two. Don’t try to squeeze too many in.
The people of Napa Valley are filled with knowledge and the grounds are stunning. Each vineyard tells it’s own story—ask questions and have fun! Below are my top food, wine and hotel recs in each area :)
St. Helena
This is our favorite area in wine country! It is super close to both Oakville and Yountville—you can bop around all three of these areas very easily.
Wine:
Newton Vineyard (favorite grounds!)
Restaurants:
Places to stay:
Wine Country Inn (we spent the night here and loved it!)
Meadowood (never stayed here, but have heard great things)
Yountville
Wine:
Restaurants:
The French Laundry (need reservation in advance - very famous spot)
Places to stay:
Bardessono (very $$ - great for a special occasion)
Sonoma
Wine:
Scribe Winery (must!)
Artesa (closer to downtown Napa)
Restaurants:
The Girl and the Fig (our fave!)
Places to stay:
Healdsburg
Wine:
Restaurants:
Places to stay:
Xx,
Nat
