Just Back from Napa Valley: My 5-Day Itinerary for Wine Tastings & Unforgettable Meals
Just back from Napa Valley, I’m thrilled to share my personal itinerary for an unforgettable experience filled with exceptional wine, delicious food, and stunning views. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a seasoned Napa enthusiast, this guide will lead you through some of the best tastings, eateries, and hidden gems the region has to offer. Each day strikes a perfect balance between wine tastings and time to savor Napa’s incredible culinary scene, all while soaking in the charm and natural beauty that make Napa Valley so unique.
Having just returned from Napa Valley myself, I’ve carefully curated this itinerary to highlight the region’s rich history and innovative wineries. I’ve included my top spots to eat, drink, and unwind, with suggestions for both newcomers and those who want to explore Napa’s more authentic side. For my exact itinerary, download it now so you can make the most of your Napa experience.
Just Back from Napa Valley Itinerary Overview
After just getting back from Napa Valley, I’ve crafted this itinerary to showcase the perfect blend of wine tastings and some of the best dining Napa has to offer. These are my personal favorites that capture the true essence of the region.
➡️Day 1: Arrival, The Dutch Door, No Love Lost, Benevolent Neglect, Scala Osteria
➡️Day 2: The Boon Fly Café, Matthiasson Wines, Croccante, Trefethen Family Vineyards, Oenotri
➡️Day 3: La Cheve, Newfound Wines, Charter Oak, The River Club, ZuZu
➡️Day 4: Loveski Deli, Clif Family Winery, Ehlers, Frog’s Leap, Angele Restaurant
➡️Day 5: Departure
Day One: Arrival, The Dutch Door, No Love Lost, Benevolent Neglect, Scala Osteria
Start your Napa Valley getaway with intention, this first day is all about settling in, stretching your legs, and easing into the wine country rhythm. Whether you’re arriving from out of state or just making a weekend escape, this itinerary helps you make the most of your afternoon and evening in downtown Napa.
Morning
Your day will likely begin with an early morning flight into San Francisco, giving you a full day to enjoy Napa Valley. Grab breakfast on the go or at the airport, and aim to land around 11:00 AM. After picking up your reserved rental car, hit the road and head straight to wine country, about 90 minutes.
Afternoon
If early check-in is available at your hotel, take advantage, you’ll be able to explore the rest of the day on foot. If not, no worries! Downtown Napa offers plenty of public parking options.
Kick off your Napa experience with lunch at The Dutch Door, a casual walk-up window spot serving fresh, seasonal dishes. With plenty of outdoor seating, it’s a great place to ease into vacation mode. They offer incredible vegan and gluten-free options that don’t compromise on bold flavor.
After lunch, stroll over to No Love Lost, a natural wine tasting room that’s all about transparency and sustainability. Their wines are made using organic farming practices, low-intervention techniques, and grapes from family-owned vineyards. Whether you’re a fan of classic Napa Cab or curious to try something unexpected, their lineup will have something that surprises and delights.
Evening
Your next tasting stop is Benevolent Neglect Wines, a laid-back tasting room with cool 70s lounge vibes. The winemakers focus on minimal-intervention techniques that truly highlight the character of each vintage. The atmosphere is relaxed, the playlists are fun, and the pours are thoughtfully selected to show off the season’s best.
Wrap up your first night at Scala Osteria, one of downtown Napa’s buzziest spots. The menu is filled with options like gluten-free shrimp and clam pasta, marinated half chicken, and seasonal salads (we loved the strawberry one!). And yes, there’s wine, but this is your reminder to pace yourself! With three more days ahead, you’ll want to enjoy every sip without overdoing it on night one.
Day Two: The Boon Fly Café, Matthiasson Wines, Croccante, Trefethen Family Vineyards, Oenotri
Spend your day savoring Napa Valley’s best local flavors, from farm-driven wines to unforgettable meals, all at a relaxed, easygoing pace. With thoughtfully planned stops, you’ll experience the perfect balance of wine tasting, dining, and downtime.
Morning
Start your morning like a true wine country champion with breakfast at The Boon Fly Café, just a quick drive from downtown Napa. If you’re gluten-free, you’ll have plenty of options, banana bread with lemon curd and fresh berries, or corned beef hash. If not gluten-free, the breakfast burrito is a favorite.
After fueling up, your first wine tasting is at 10:00 AM at Matthiasson Vineyards. Here, you’ll learn about the owners, Steve and Jill, who proudly introduce themselves as farmers first and winemakers second. Their commitment to regenerative and sustainable farming shines through in their dry, food-friendly wines that celebrate the character of each growing season. They also enjoy experimenting with unique grape varieties that aren’t commonly found in Napa Valley, making this a one-of-a-kind and memorable tasting experience.
Afternoon
Lunch is at Croccante, where you can split a hearty Detroit-style pizza, because pizza and wine might just be one of the best pairings out there. Afterward, you’ll likely have time for a mid-afternoon break at your hotel. Take this opportunity to drop off any wine purchases and maybe stroll through a few downtown Napa shops.
Next, head to Trefethen Family Vineyards at 3:00 PM for their Taste the Estate experience. You’ll walk through gardens and towering redwoods on your way to the tasting room, where small, estate-grown bites are thoughtfully paired with their wines, all set on a stunning 400-acre property.
Evening
Drop off your car and enjoy a scenic walk along the Napa River as you make your way to dinner at Oenotri. Here, you’ll find incredible house-made pizzas, pastas, and seasonal specials. Be sure to save room for dessert, the Blood Orange Granita is a refreshing and perfect way to end the day.
If you still have energy, downtown Napa offers plenty of additional tasting rooms, distilleries, and wine bars to explore.
Day Three: La Cheve, Newfound Wines, Charter Oak, The River Club, ZuZu
Today is about diving a little deeper into Napa Valley’s community, finding those hidden gems, connecting with passionate winemakers, and savoring incredible food. Take it slow and soak it all in.
Morning
Today’s breakfast is a real treat: La Cheve. The food here is fabulous, and the family-run atmosphere makes you feel truly welcome. They don’t take reservations and it can get busy, think lines wrapped around the building. They open at 7:30 AM, and if you’re willing to get an early start, I highly recommend it. If you arrive and the line is long, head around to the side take-out window for a quicker option; they have a few outdoor tables you can use. Either way, don’t skip this stop, their Huevos Rancheros are the best I’ve ever had!
Next, head north to St. Helena for a tasting at Newfound Wines, where Audra will likely be leading you through their thoughtfully crafted wines. She and her husband Matt focus on Grenache and a few delightful surprises. Be sure to ask about their inspiring story of restoring a 40-acre farm through regenerative farming practices, it’s as impressive as their wine.
Afternoon
Lunch today is at The Charter Oak Restaurant, a favorite we return to again and again. The welcoming staff, beautiful outdoor seating, and shareable plates make it a perfect midday break. Order a variety of dishes to get a true taste of everything they do so well.
Evening
As the day winds down, visit our friends at The River Club, where Bertus and Ali of Belong Wine Co. will make you feel like part of the family. You’ll have the chance to taste Bertus’s beautifully made lineup, as well as wines from Paper Planes Wine Co., all while enjoying a relaxed setting right on the Napa Valley River.
Wrap up your evening with dinner at Zuzu, a lively Spanish tapas restaurant. Start with their famous Gin & Tonic of the month and share a variety of small plates, it’s a fun, casual way to end your day.
Day Four: Loveski Deli, Clif Family Winery, Ehlers, Frog’s Leap, Angele Restaurant
Get ready for a full day of wine tastings, great food, and beautiful vineyard views.
Morning
Start your morning with a treat at Loveski Deli inside Oxbow Public Market, where their gluten-free bagel is a must-stop on every visit to Napa. After breakfast, take a lap (or two) around the Market, it’s the perfect place to browse local goods and pick up any last-minute gifts. I would plan to arrive around 8:45 AM, but it really depends on how much time you want to spend exploring.
Next up, head to Clif Family Winery for the Rise & Wine experience. The wines paired beautifully with the small bites and made for a perfect mid-morning snack after a lighter breakfast. Clif Family focuses on a hands-off approach to winemaking, crafting versatile wines that fit any occasion.
Afternoon
One of my favorite food and wine pairings in Napa Valley is the experience at Ehlers Estate with lunch at Violetto. It’s a special opportunity to learn about Ehlers’ incredible wines while enjoying a beautifully curated coursed meal. After lunch, take a short drive back to their winery to walk the historic property, it’s well worth the time.
When you’re ready, make your way to Frog’s Leap Winery. Their Rooted in Rutherford experience is my favorite, but if you’re tight on time, the sustainably produced tasting is also a great option. Frog’s Leap has a gorgeous property with chickens, a working fountain with a fun story, stunning vineyard views, and delicious wines.
Evening
After a full day of tastings, wind down with a French-inspired dinner at Angele Restaurant. It’s right on the Napa River and offers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for satisfying any cravings after a long day. After dinner, it’s a great spot to start a stroll through downtown Napa and stretch your legs before calling it a night.
Day Five: Departure
Your final day in Napa Valley is all about soaking up a few last moments of relaxation before heading home. Whether you have a few hours or most of the day, here’s how to make the most of it.
Morning
Depending on your departure time, start your day with a quick breakfast, maybe another delicious bagel, or go round two at La Cheve, and take care of any last-minute errands, like shipping your wine purchases at Cartons and Crates.
Afternoon/Evening
If your schedule allows, spend a little more time wandering through Downtown Napa, exploring local shops, or visiting a nearby park like Alston Park for a peaceful stroll. If you’re driving back to San Francisco, consider making a few scenic stops along the way to stretch out the final moments of your trip before heading to the airport. I always enjoy walking around Sausalito, Muir Woods, or walking across the Golden Gate Bridge when time allows.
Where To Stay
Napa offers a range of accommodations to fit different styles and budgets, whether you’re looking for a cozy vacation rental, a boutique hotel experience, or a luxurious full-service stay. Here are three great options depending on what you’re looking for:
📍Budget Option: VRBO, staying in a VRBO near downtown Napa offers a variety of options to fit your group’s size and needs, from charming cottages perfect for couples to spacious homes ideal for larger groups, all within easy access to dining, shopping, and wine tasting.
📍Mid-Range Option: R Inn Napa, a boutique hotel just steps from downtown, offering the perfect blend of privacy and comfort. The courtyard-style rooms feel like a private retreat, and guests enjoy access to a shared kitchen stocked daily with light snacks and fresh coffee.
📍Luxury Option: Archer Hotel Napa, for a luxury stay in the heart of downtown Napa, the Archer Hotel offers upscale rooms, a rooftop bar with stunning valley views, and a prime location steps from top restaurants, tasting rooms, and shops.
Getting Around
Getting around Napa Valley is easiest when you have your own car. It’s ideal not only for getting to and from the airport but also for giving you the freedom to explore the region’s beautiful backroads and hidden gems at your own pace. There are plenty of car service options available too, including some companies that will drive your own vehicle for you. If you prefer not to drive at all during your trip, Downtown Napa has enough tasting rooms, shops, and restaurants within walking distance to fill your days without ever needing a car. However, I recommend having access to a car at least part of the time so you can fully enjoy the scenic drives and vineyard views Napa Valley is known for.
FAQs
Planning a trip to Napa Valley comes with a lot of questions, from how many days to spend, to the best time to visit, to how to get around. Below, I’m answering some of the most common questions to help you plan the perfect Napa Valley getaway.
- How many days are enough for Napa Valley? How many days you need in Napa Valley really depends on how rushed you want to feel during your vacation. If you want a more relaxed trip and time to fit in multiple wine tastings, I recommend spending 5–6 days in Napa Valley. Check out my 6-day Napa Valley itinerary here! However, even a shorter trip filled with wine tasting and exploring can still be an amazing experience.
- What is the best month to visit Napa Valley? I’ve visited Napa Valley four times now. My first trip was in October and the weather was absolutely perfect, warm days and cool evenings. However, my second October trip was canceled 24 hours before departure due to wildfires. Because of that, I’ve opted for April trips ever since. While April can be cooler (sometimes low 60s), traveling during the spring off-season means fewer crowds, easier reservations, and a more relaxed experience overall.
- Is Napa expensive to visit? Napa Valley can be as expensive or affordable as you make it. There are plenty of luxury experiences, but you can also plan a trip that fits your budget by choosing more casual tastings, free activities like hiking, and staying at more affordable accommodations.
- How many wineries should I visit in one day in Napa Valley? For the best experience, I recommend visiting two wineries per day: one in the morning and one in the afternoon. This allows you to enjoy each tasting without feeling rushed or overdoing it. On some itineraries, I have fit in three tastings in a day, but when I do that, I usually skip having a glass of wine at lunch or dinner to pace myself and fully enjoy the trip.
- Are there gluten-free restaurants in Napa Valley? Yes, there are so many amazing gluten-free-friendly restaurants in Napa Valley! Every restaurant I recommend on my blog offers gluten-free options. I am gluten sensitive (not celiac), so if you have celiac disease, I would recommend calling ahead to confirm cross-contamination practices.
- Where should I stay in Napa Valley for a wine weekend? I highly recommend staying within walking distance of Downtown Napa. It’s such a charming area to explore by foot with easy access to restaurants, shops, wine bars, and tasting rooms. Plus, being able to stroll back to your hotel after dinner is a huge bonus.
- Can you do a Napa Valley wine trip without a car? It’s possible to do a Napa Valley trip without a car, but I wouldn’t necessarily recommend it. While there are plenty of tours and chauffeur services to drive you to wine tastings, having a car gives you more flexibility to explore the valley, visit restaurants outside of downtown, and travel to and from the airport easily.
Just Back from Napa Valley Final Thoughts
To wrap up my Just Back from Napa Valley trip, I’m excited to share this itinerary designed to help you experience the heart of Napa beyond the usual tourist stops. This trip is all about slowing down, tasting with intention, and connecting with the winemakers, families, and land that make Napa Valley truly special. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a seasoned Napa traveler, I hope these recommendations inspire you to explore a more meaningful and personal side of wine country.
The wineries featured here aren’t the big-name labels you’ll easily find at your local shop, they’re small, passionate producers who prioritize thoughtful, sustainable practices and let the true character of each growing season shine through. One of the beautiful things about wine is that no two vintages should taste exactly the same; nature’s influence is something to be celebrated, not hidden. I hope this itinerary sparks your curiosity to seek out more wines like these, and to appreciate the story and care behind every glass you enjoy.
Safe travels, Jacki
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