Napa Valley Itinerary: The Best 6-Day Wine Country Getaway (2025)
Your 6-Day Napa Valley Itinerary Starts Here: The Perfect Wine Country Plan
I love going to Napa Valley as you can find a little bit of everything depending on your interest, but let’s be honest, most of us go for the wine! I lean towards winemakers who use low-intervention practices, resulting in wines that showcase noticeable differences between vintages. These variations, driven by changing growing seasons, make for an exciting tasting experience and makes you pay attention to what you are drinking.
In this Napa Valley itinerary, I’ve included not only my favorite wineries, but also the best places to stay and eat, ensuring that you will have an unforgettable trip.
If you follow this itinerary, expect to encounter something new and different. Approach it with an open mind and be ready to experience varietals that you haven’t before — it’s all part of the fun!
Napa Valley Itinerary Overview
Considering that you will be enjoying wine tastings for 6-days I think the perfect day includes a wine tasting in the morning and afternoon spaced between great meals.
➡️Day 1: Broc Cellars & Donkey and Goat Winery
➡️Day 2: Belong Wines & Matthiasson
➡️Day 3: Newfound, Ehlers, & Castello di Amorosa
➡️Day 4: Frog’s Leap, Larkmead, & Ward Four Wines
➡️Day 5: Rutherford Hill Winery & Young Inglewood
➡️Day 6: Travel Day
Day One: Broc Cellars & Donkey and Goat Winery
Your first day will likely begin with traveling to Napa Valley. I fly into San Francisco Airport, and therefore I’m recommending a slight detour before heading straight to downtown Napa. Take the opportunity to explore a few of my favorite wineries in Berkeley — a perfect way to ease into your Napa Valley itinerary with some hidden gems just outside the city.
Morning
Let’s cover a few basics, you’ve landed in San Francisco between 10:00-11:00 AM, and now I recommend picking up your rental car at the airport. This has always been a convenient option for us, giving you the freedom you’ll need to explore your Napa Valley Itinerary. While California traffic can be unpredictable, plan for around a 60-minute drive to Berkeley, where you will arrive to your first destinations. Reservations aren’t required for these stops, but be sure to double-check the operating hours for the day of your visit.
Afternoon
Berkeley has a handful of tasting rooms all right next to each other, and I am recommending that you stop at Broc Cellars and Donkey & Goat. I found Broc Cellars through our wine club, Domestique and they only use organically farmed grapes in addition to sustainable farming practices including the use of cover crops and sheep! Broc Cellars makes every day drinking wines that are interesting and typically like nothing you have ever tasted.
Donkey & Goat was introduced to us by Broc Cellars and labeled as one of the “OG’s” of the Natural Wine Community. They are also one of the first to include ingredients on their wine labels.
Both have small food options and sometimes food trucks. Definitely grab a bite to eat on your way from the airport or plan on getting some food at the tasting rooms.
Evening
After sipping your first glasses of wine in California, it’s time to make your way to downtown Napa — about another 60-minute drive. I love staying close to downtown for the convenience of walking to dinner in the evenings and easy access to the nearby wineries during the day. It’s the perfect base for your Napa Valley itinerary!
For the first night, I recommend not making dinner reservations since arrival times can vary. If the Oxbow Public Market is still open, it’s a great place to explore and find a casual place to eat. If it is not open, I have been able to enjoy great meals at Los Agaves or Angèle without reservations.
Day Two: Belong Wines & Matthiasson
Today is your first full day in Napa Valley, and from here on out, reservations are a must. A good breakfast is essential, and depending on where you’re staying, it may be included in your accommodations. Otherwise, downtown Napa has plenty of great coffee shops and restaurants, and Oxbow Public Market has an excellent bagel spot, with gluten-free options- Loveski!
As you head out for your wine tastings, I recommend bringing water and a few snacks. It’s also a good idea to have a light jacket or sweater on hand.
Morning
Depending on where you stay, your first tasting of the day might be within walking distance. At this destination you will have the opportunity to try wines from two different wineries at The River Club. This includes our friends at Belong Wine Co. My husband, James, and I, first connected with Bertus and Alli, the owners of Belong Wine Co., through social media in 2018 and finally met them in person in 2023. Bertus’ winemaking expertise, combined with Alli’s keen attention to detail, results in a perfect pairing for great wine and an unforgettable experience. At The River Club, Paper Planes Wine Co. is also available to taste.
Afternoon
Your afternoon will begin with a lunch break at Brix. This will be a 20 minute drive from downtown. They have beautiful seating inside and out and a great menu. As hard as it is to resist another beautiful glass of wine, I typically skip it at lunch and focus on the flavors of your meal.
Your next stop, just 10 minutes away, is Matthiasson. This tasting takes place at one of their stunning vineyards, where a knowledgeable host will guide you through their wines in a private setting with a view of the vines. Steve and Jill Matthiasson are well-known for their sustainable farming practices and serve as valuable resources to other winemakers. Their passion for agriculture extends beyond wine, as they even offer a jam club membership as part of their wine club. You’ll find Steve featured in many podcasts and shows, sharing his expertise and insights.
Evening
For the evening, I recommend that you drive back to where you are staying and park the car. It’s a beautiful walk into town for dinner at the Bounty Hunter. I would recommend sharing the smokin’ BBQ platter.
Day Three: Newfound, Ehlers, & Castello di Amorosa
Get ready for the next two days, as I’ve added a third wine tasting to the itinerary. There are just too many incredible wineries I wanted to include for this Napa Valley itinerary experience, and I’m confident you won’t be disappointed!
Morning
Start your day with a good breakfast before heading to Newfound Wines, around 10:30 AM. We discovered Newfound through a recommendation from Matthiasson, and it quickly became a favorite.
Your tasting with Audra will be a highlight. She and Matt bought their land in 2016 and spent years restoring it. Their dedication to land stewardship really adds depth to their wine. The food pairings, especially the Torres chips, are fantastic, and the elegant wine glasses truly elevated the experience. As a glassware enthusiast, I plan to replace all my glasses with the Mark Thomas ones they use—they enhance your wine drinking experience in a way no other glass does. You won’t be disappointed!
Afternoon
Your second stop includes a lunch paired with the wine—my favorite combination! Ehlers Estate is known for its estate-grown, certified organic vineyards, and they produce exceptional Bordeaux-style wines. The meal and wine will be delicious, and it is the perfect opportunity to learn how to pair their wines while also discovering their rich history. After lunch, take some extra time to visit the estate across the street. I highly recommend it, as the original stone winery was built in 1886.
Evening
For the last stop of the day: Castello di Amorosa. Not only do they use organic grapes, but the experience of visiting this winery is truly unique. Often referred to as “the castle,” it is a must-see for anyone visiting the region. It’s the first place people will ask about when they hear you’re headed to Napa, and for good reason. The beautifully constructed medieval-style castle offers a variety of tours, and I highly recommend exploring the entire estate. Make sure to savor the atmosphere and take it all in—it’s worth experiencing at least once, and will be much different that my other recommendations.
After this, you’re about 40 minutes from downtown Napa. I recommend parking the car back at your hotel and walking into town for dinner. Tonight, I recommend you dine at Grace’s Table.
Day Four: Frog’s Leap, Larkmead, & Ward Four Wines
Get ready for your second day filled with three unforgettable wine tastings! These wineries will offer unique experiences, stunning views, and, of course, exceptional wines that will make your Napa Valley itinerary truly special. Prepare for a day of sipping, savoring, and discovering some hidden gems!
Morning
Kick off the day around 9:45 AM and make your way to Frog’s Leap Winery, a place highly recommended to us by Matthiasson as well. I recommend you book the Rooted in Rutherford experience. The tour will take you through the beautiful property, where you even get to meet the chickens, explore the cellar, and finally settle into a charmingly set room to enjoy the wines. The entire setting is picture-perfect, making your experience truly memorable. You will also learn a great deal about Frog’s Leap’s values and sustainability practices, which deepen your appreciation for the wine in your glass. For those who can’t make it in person, they even offer a virtual tasting option—a great way to enjoy their wines from the comfort of home.
Afternoon
After lunch at Farmstead, make your way to Larkmead Vineyards, one of Napa Valley’s historic gems, founded in 1895. Larkmead has a rich history, including a legacy of strong women, particularly Lillie Hitchcock Coit, a remarkable figure known for her adventurous spirit and support of the San Francisco Fire Department after being rescued from a house fire. Her story adds a unique charm to the vineyard’s heritage. At Larkmead, you can take a full tour of the vineyard, learn about their fascinating history, and enjoy a glass of wine on their scenic patio. It’s the perfect blend of history, wine, and beauty.
Evening
After a day of wine tasting, make your way to dinner at Angèle in downtown Napa. Nestled along the riverfront, Angèle offers a cozy atmosphere, perfect for winding down.
After dinner, take a short stroll to the docks for a sunset gondola ride with Napa Valley Gondola. Book a special wine tasting with Justin from Ward Four Wines, whose passion and craftsmanship truly shine through each bottle. Gliding along the peaceful river with a glass of wine in hand, the evening couldn’t end on a better note.
Day Five: Rutherford Hill Winery & Young Inglewood
It’s the final day of your Napa Valley Itinerary, and we’re wrapping up with more amazing wine tastings. Today’s stops will leave you with lasting memories!
Morning
Today, you kick off the day at Rutherford Hill Winery. They offer a range of tasting experiences, and I recommend opting for the ATV & Cave Tour. No matter which experience you choose, make sure it includes the cave tour! The ATV ride takes you around the vineyard, giving you a scenic view of the property, while the cave tour is where the real magic happens. These man-made caves, built for barrel storage, set the stage for a unique tasting experience. It was an all-around fantastic adventure, blending the beauty of the vineyard with the fascinating cave setting!
Afternoon
Lunch today is at Charter Oak, followed by a visit to Young Inglewood. Located on a stunning property, this winery is deeply committed to sustainable winemaking. During our visit, we even saw one of the owners working in the vineyard, which added to the experience. The tasting room, with its large doors that open to the vineyard view, let you enjoy the fresh air as you sip on their beautiful wines—making it the perfect final stop of your trip!
Evening
For your final dinner, I recommend dining at Oenotri—a perfect way to wrap up your last night in Napa. Afterward, spend the evening winding down and packing up for your flight home the next day.
Day Six: Travel Day
This day is reserved for your travel home. If you haven’t yet had a chance to ship the wines you’ve collected, it’s a great time to stop at Cartons & Crates. They have everything you need to safely get your bottles home.
Depending on your flight time, if you’re heading back through San Francisco, I recommend stopping in Sausalito for lunch. Scoma’s offers a delicious waterfront meal. If you have extra time, consider a walk through Muir Woods, one of my favorite peaceful spots, or check a bucket list item off with a stroll across the Golden Gate Bridge.
Where To Stay
When visiting Napa, I highly recommend staying within walking distance of downtown. It’s incredibly convenient to stroll to dinner after a day of wine tasting, and it adds to the charm of the experience. Here are some of my favorite places to stay that offer both comfort and easy access to Napa’s best dining spots.
📍Bed & Breakfast: The George, I’m all about a good B&B, especially when wine tasting is on the itinerary! Having breakfast covered—complete with options for dietary restrictions—is such a game-changer. It takes the stress out of the morning and lets you focus on the fun parts of the day.
📍Boutique Hotel: R INN NAPA, If B&Bs aren’t your style, a boutique hotel is my next choice. I prefer to skip the big corporate chains and stay somewhere with unique charm and character.
📍Rental Property: Vrbo, For those who prefer their own space, there are plenty of Vrbo options near downtown Napa, offering convenience and privacy.
Best Ways to Get Around Napa Valley
Our favorite way to explore Napa Valley is by renting a car. Picking one up at the airport, whether you’re flying into San Francisco or Sacramento, and this gives you the freedom to make scenic stops along the way and explore the valley at your own pace. It’s especially convenient for a flexible Napa Valley itinerary, since you can choose to walk into town for dinner or hop in the car if something farther away catches your eye.
For your wine tasting days, hiring a driver is a great way to relax and enjoy the experience without worrying about who’s driving. There are several local services that either provide a car or will drive your rental. One option we’ve looked into and would recommend is Wine Tasting Drivers, they’re known for their great service and flexibility.
FAQs
Here are answers to the most common questions travelers have when visiting Napa Valley.
How many days are enough for Napa Valley?
For a winery-focused trip, I’ve found six days to be the sweet spot, which is why this itinerary is built around that. I once did a seven-day trip, and by the final day, our group agreed it was a bit much. Four or five days can still give you a great taste of Napa Valley, but truly, any time spent in wine country is time well spent.
What is the best time of year to visit Napa Valley?
While most blogs might say fall (September/October) is the best time to visit, my personal experience is to avoid this time. Our first trip to Napa was canceled due to fires in the Valley, and I’ve avoided that risk since. My favorite time to visit is late April—just before peak season kicks in. The weather has always been perfect, and tastings feel more relaxed with fewer tourists and pre-harvest crowds. However, there really is no bad time to visit Napa.
How do I get wine home from Napa Valley?
Always check with each winery about free or discounted shipping options based on your group’s bottle count. If you’re buying one or two bottles here and there, aim to end up with a case (12 bottles). We like to stop by Cartons & Crates on our way to the airport to ship any bottles we’ve collected.
Final thoughts on this Napa Valley Itinerary
When planning your itinerary, remember it’s all about slowing down and enjoying the experience. Napa is about more than just wine; it’s the scenery, the food, and the people behind each glass.
This Napa Valley itinerary is here to help you get your planning started and make your trip unforgettable. Whether you’re a wine-tasting pro or just getting into it, Napa has something for everyone. Cheers to making it a place you’ll want to come back to again and again!
Safe Travels, Jacki
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